Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Cherokee and Clay County Trust Grant, established in 1973 by W.J. “Dub” Martin, aims to enhance the well-being of residents in Cherokee and Clay Counties, North Carolina. With an average grant size of $1,000 to $5,000 and approximately 15 grants awarded annually, the trust focuses on areas such as education, health, arts, and human services. It prioritizes organizations that assist young people, support churches, and provide essential services to those in need.

The Iroquois Community Grant Program, established in 2007, aims to enhance the quality of life in communities hosting Iroquois facilities through funding initiatives focused on environmental preservation, passive recreation, historic preservation, and arts and culture. Grants range from $2,500 to $10,000 and are available to local governments and nonprofit organizations. The program prioritizes projects that demonstrate community involvement and alignment with grant objectives, fostering sustainable benefits for the communities served.

The John T. & Lois "Sonny" Velkas Child Welfare Fund prioritizes initiatives that enhance the welfare of children in Hancock and Harrison counties. It supports community service, child welfare, education and youth programs, and health and wellness initiatives, aiming for impactful partnerships. Organizations are encouraged to align their proposals with the fund's goals, while noting that lobbying, fundraising events, and administrative costs are ineligible for funding. The fund seeks to foster meaningful community impacts.

The Walter C. Rasmussen-Northeast Bank Foundation honors the legacy of its founder by supporting initiatives in education, housing, culture, environment, and health. With a focus on community-building, the foundation aims to empower the economically disadvantaged, particularly children and families, through self-sufficiency programs. It prioritizes effective strategies that address local needs in Hennepin, Ramsey, and Anoka counties, ensuring a lasting impact on the community's well-being and development.

The ACBOCI Charitable Grants program, offered by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, aims to support local community initiatives. Since the establishment of their casino in Palm Springs, the Tribe has donated millions to various local organizations, schools, and food banks. They prioritize funding for nonprofit organizations within the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation and the Coachella Valley, particularly those with IRS 501(c)(3) status.

The Presnell Foundation Grant supports North Carolina public and private schools, providing funding for educational programs and extracurricular activities. Additionally, it offers grants to religious institutions for building projects and ministries. The foundation prioritizes emergency funding for nonprofit agencies facing critical human needs that could disrupt services. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations, ensuring that funds significantly impact their clients and support ongoing programs.

The Tucker County Grant offers funding of $500 or less to support organizations and individuals making a positive impact in the community. This grant, administered by the Tucker Community Foundation, is available to those with a valid 501(c)3 tax status or those who can demonstrate charitable intent. It aims to foster innovation and uplift communities by providing essential resources for various projects.

The Brower Youth Awards for Environmental Leadership honors young leaders aged 13 to 22 in North America who excel in environmental initiatives. Awardees receive a $3,000 cash prize, training, and networking opportunities to enhance their impact. This prestigious program fosters youth leadership and amplifies diverse voices within the environmental movement, encouraging innovative solutions to pressing ecological challenges. Over the past 25 years, the awards have celebrated over 100 emerging leaders dedicated to making a difference in their communities.

The Andrew W. Mellon Fellowships offer short-term research support for academic researchers and doctoral candidates focusing on Virginia history. Funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, these fellowships provide $1,000 per week for research visits lasting one to two weeks. They cover diverse topics, including political, economic, and cultural studies. Applicants are evaluated based on scholarly qualifications and proposal merit, with priority given to those whose work may lead to significant publication.

The Kempner Fund's Core Grants Program focuses on enhancing Galveston's long-term success and resilience, particularly in environmental sustainability. It prioritizes funding initiatives that address climate change impacts and promote community engagement. Eligible applicants include USA-based 501(c)(3) organizations that align with the Fund's mission and values. Grant sizes range from $20,000 to $100,000, based on project scope. The Fund aims to address challenges faced by the Galveston community through targeted support and collaboration.

The Schumann Fund for New Jersey Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on affordable housing, early childhood education, and child welfare. With a commitment to fostering economic mobility and healthy communities, the Fund emphasizes collaboration and effective resource utilization. As of 2025, funding will primarily be available for renewal applications, while new proposals will be accepted starting January 15, 2026. This initiative aims to create lasting positive change in social and educational services for vulnerable populations.

Oklahoma AmeriCorps

Oklahoma AmeriCorps improves lives, strengthens communities and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. We bring people together to tackle some of the state’s most pressing challenges by providing grants to Oklahoma nonprofits. These programs are located throughout the state and focus on the areas of Disaster Services, Economic Opportunity, Education, Environmental Stewardship, Healthy Futures, and Veterans & Military Families. Those who serve in the programs are known as “Members” and earn an education award for their participation. 

AmeriCorps Oklahoma Funding

Oklahoma AmeriCorps is seeking grant applicants to operate or develop AmeriCorps programs in Oklahoma. The AmeriCorps programs will enroll AmeriCorps members to address community-identified needs in one or more focus areas during their term of service: Disaster Services, Economic Opportunity, Education, Environmental Stewardship, Healthy Futures, or Veterans and Military Families.

Oklahoma AmeriCorps is the legal applicant to the federal AmeriCorps agency, and applicants applying under this notice are subgrantees of Oklahoma AmeriCorps. Applicants will initially submit their grant in the Oklahoma AmeriCorps internal application system and successful applicants will enter the final grant application in eGrants for submission to the AmeriCorps agency. Indian Tribes are eligible to apply directly to the AmeriCorps agency.

Application Types

Oklahoma AmeriCorps grants may be either an operating grant with AmeriCorps members to support the program’s operations or a planning grant to develop a future operational program. Planning grants are not awarded AmeriCorps member slots. 

The Norco Community Fund Grant, managed by the Greater New Orleans Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life for Norco residents through funding programs that focus on children, youth, and older adults. Priority is given to local organizations providing vital services, including mentorship for youth, social services, and support for older adults. This initiative stems from a significant donation to foster community development and well-being.

The Backyard Giving Grants, offered by CHS Foundation, support local organizations in Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington counties with funding up to $5,000. These grants aim to host community events, provide agricultural education, and ensure access to healthy food and housing. Eligible applicants include 501c3 organizations that prioritize community building and education. Notably, the program does not fund sports teams or religious groups, ensuring a focus on essential community needs and equitable support.

The Kenneth Dahlberg Endowed Scholarship, offered by Western Michigan University's Department of Political Science, supports undergraduate and graduate students in political science and environmental studies. Established in memory of Professor Kenneth Dahlberg, this annual award of approximately $1,500 emphasizes sustainability in agricultural systems and climate policy. Eligible candidates include students from relevant departments, with preference given to those demonstrating financial need. Nomination for the scholarship can be made by faculty or through self-nomination.

The AWWA Scholarship Program offers the GFT Forces of Change Scholarship, providing $5,000 to undergraduate or graduate engineering students passionate about advancing the water industry. This scholarship underscores AWWA's commitment to nurturing future professionals who will tackle critical infrastructure challenges. By investing in education, AWWA aims to empower the next generation to innovate and lead in water supply solutions. This initiative highlights the importance of skilled engineers in shaping a sustainable future.

The Johnson Controls Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations dedicated to creating smarter, healthier, and more sustainable communities. Since 1952, the Foundation has contributed over $77 million to U.S. charities, emphasizing initiatives in education, health, and environmental protection. Eligible organizations should align with the Foundation’s priorities and demonstrate community impact, particularly in areas with a strong Johnson Controls presence. Each year, approximately $7 million is distributed to support these vital programs.

The New York State Pollution Prevention Institute (NYSP2I) Community Grants support local organizations and government agencies in New York to implement pollution prevention practices. By funding projects that promote sustainability and environmental awareness, NYSP2I aims to enhance community health and economic vitality. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and local governments focused on environmental issues, fostering collaborations that can lead to broader community impacts and replicable sustainable practices.

The CFSCC Community Grants aim to inspire philanthropy by funding nonprofits in Santa Cruz County that address local needs. This year, $1.2 million will support initiatives focused on youth education, seniors, and human services. The grants prioritize unrestricted funding to ensure organizations can address pressing issues while promoting equity and inclusion. With a commitment to empowering diverse leaders, the foundation seeks to create lasting positive impacts across the community.

The Lintilhac Foundation Grant aims to foster a stronger, healthier Vermont by supporting nonprofit organizations in various core areas such as clean energy, water quality, forest health, and sustainable outdoor recreation. With a legacy of over 50 years, the foundation emphasizes the importance of engaging local communities to address climate change, preserve biodiversity, and secure healthy food systems, while upholding democratic values and environmental science. This holistic approach ensures that both human and natural communities thrive together.

The Pokagon Fund Discretionary Grants support projects that enhance the quality of life for residents in Harbor Country, Michigan. Originating from a partnership with the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, the fund prioritizes education, poverty reduction, and community vitality. With over $2.5 million allocated to educational initiatives, the fund addresses local challenges such as food insecurity and aims to uplift the surrounding communities through strategic grant support.

The Richard Reed Foundation Grant supports small, innovative non-profit organizations in Colorado and Northern California that aim to improve community welfare through initiatives in mental health, child development, environmental impact, and animal welfare. The foundation focuses on organizations with a proven track record, clear goals, and sustainable funding. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $10,000, and the foundation encourages creativity and collaboration to foster significant community change.

The John Goddard Prize offers microgrants to empower youth-led environmental initiatives across the nation. This competitive cash prize supports ambitious young leaders seeking funding for innovative projects that promote environmental sustainability. Applications are welcomed from young people dedicated to making a positive impact on the planet. By fostering creativity and action, the prize aims to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.

About Us

The Youth Climate Justice Fund aims to support climate justice young leaders with trust-based funding, resources, and capacity strengthening, enabling them to amplify their voices and to keep their vision and influence alive.

Collectively, we have the power to ignite meaningful change and build equitable and sustainable futures. Despite the challenges posed by the current crisis, youth climate justice organizers remain determined to address current issues and explore new approaches.

Mission & Purpose

We work to strengthen existing organizing efforts and support emerging youth-led initiatives with a focus on bridging funders and organizers to enable flexible and impactful support. Through capacity strengthening and resource sharing, we empower and support young people to drive change and build a just and sustainable future.

How To Apply

The Youth Climate Justice Fund provides funding to emerging youth-led climate justice and socio-environmental groups through a participatory decision-making process.

Circular Economy Funding has been allocated for education programs and the infrastructure required to support resource diversion programs and the circular economy in three (3) main categories: 

• Consumer Behavior and Practices - Consumer Behavior and Practices projects must focus on zero waste, source reduction, reuse, recycling, circular economy, closed loop systems, extended producer responsibility, product stewardship and/or composting.
• Collection and/or Processing - Funds may be used for: the purchase of containers, balers, shredders, compactors, pallet jacks, construction and/or signs. Infrastructure and equipment that supports a circular economy by giving a company the ability to take back and reuse their products will be given priority
• Manufacturing and Design - Projects must either improve the design of consumer goods and/or packaging or create new goods that align with zero waste/circular economy principles. 

The NYSCA Arts Bring Change (ABC) Grants support local cultural organizations and artists who collaborate with public schools to provide K-12 students with engaging artistic experiences. Funded by the New York State Council on the Arts, this program emphasizes art exploration and requires projects to include hands-on learning sessions. Applicants must demonstrate a partnership with schools and meet specific eligibility criteria, ensuring impactful and meaningful artistic education for students.

The Pokagon Fund, established through a 2000 agreement, supports communities near Band Trust Lands by providing strategic grants aimed at reducing poverty, enhancing education, and promoting community vitality. With over $23 million awarded, the Fund focuses on initiatives that foster local development, including substantial educational support and assistance for food-insecure families. By investing in these communities, the Fund aims to create a thriving environment for residents of Hartford, Dowagiac, and South Bend.