Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Detroit Arts Support Grant offers multi-year operating support to arts organizations in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties, funded by the Kresge Foundation and others. Launched in 2007, it aims to strengthen the arts sector by providing unrestricted funding for day-to-day operations, fostering creative expression across diverse communities. Grant sizes range from $5,000 to $100,000 annually, with partnerships streamlining the application process for nonprofits while ensuring shared learning and effective decision-making.

The MetroWest Fund for Arts & Culture Grant Program supports arts and cultural initiatives that enhance community engagement and diversity appreciation. By providing equitable access to artistic expression, it strengthens the local economy and cultural heritage. The Foundation for MetroWest awards discretionary grants to eligible organizations, ensuring that the benefits of art and culture reach all residents of the MetroWest region. This initiative fosters creativity and community building, making MetroWest a vibrant place to live.

About Us

We’re on a mission to help you achieve yours.

At Rhode Island Commerce Corporation, we understand that each business requires different kinds of support at different times. Our team of Business Engagement Specialists are here to assist your business in navigating any obstacles you may face. Whether you are considering launching a startup, seeking to expand your existing company or looking for assistance with red tape reduction, Rhode Island Commerce’s mission is to help you achieve your goals. We offer business assistance, access to funding and red tape reduction for companies of all sizes.

As a quasi-public agency, we serve as a government and community resource to help businesses expand in, and relocate to, Rhode Island. Our Specialists work with Rhode Island businesses in all industries and at all stages. 

Renewable Energy Fund

About REF

The Rhode Island Commerce Renewable Energy Fund (REF) supports the growth of renewable energy across Rhode Island, helping businesses and communities access cost-effective, sustainable energy solutions.

REF provides renewable energy grants for projects that generate cleaner electricity while supporting job growth in the green technology and energy sectors. Funded through the system benefit charge on electric bills and alternative compliance payments from electricity providers, REF invests in Small Scale solar, Commercial Scale, and Community Renewable energy projects throughout Rhode Island.

The Rhode Island Commerce Corporation (RI Commerce) and the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources (OER) seeks to fund solar PV on Brownfield locations. All projects must be in accordance with the Rules and Regulations for the Renewable Energy Fund Development Program.

The Sparkplug Foundation offers Emergency Grants of up to $5,000 exclusively for current and past grantees in education or community organizing. Funding is aimed at organizations with annual budgets of $500,000 or less, supporting innovative projects with limited existing funding sources. These one-time grants address urgent needs due to unforeseen circumstances, ensuring accountability and inclusion, particularly within communities in the US and Palestine/Israel.

The Capital Design Grants for Arts and Culture, offered by the New York State Council on the Arts, aim to support arts and culture nonprofits with budgets under $10 million. These grants, ranging from $50,000 to $500,000, are designed for organizations in the early stages of design for eligible capital improvements. No-match options are available for smaller organizations, ensuring broad access to funding for essential design documents.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) administers federal and state grant awards to its subgrantees to carry out a program. Such entities include primarily school systems (referred to as local educational agencies [LEAs] in statutes), including independent school districts and charter schools; education service centers (ESCs); and, to a lesser degree, institutions of higher education (IHEs), nonprofit organizations (NPOs), and other statutorily allowable organizations.

State Facilities Incentive Technical Assistance Grant

Program Description

The purpose of the State Facilities Incentive Technical Assistance Grant is to provide high-quality facilities support to Texas charter schools and support State Facilities Incentive Grant (SFIG) grantees. The grant activities include providing technical assistance for charter school leaders on smart decision-making related to facilities and growth. This support aims to increase expertise in facilities planning, financing and operations. Grant activities also include supporting SFIG grantees through monitoring and evaluation to ensure awarded SFIG funds are appropriately stewarded. 

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Hanover Community Fund

The Hanover Community Fund is an unrestricted community grant fund that supports the Hanover, KS community. The Fund was created by the generosity of individuals who have contributed money for the charitable use to address the present and future needs of Hanover, KS.

From this endowed fund, the advisory committee annually determines and designates the amount of available funding in the form of community grants.

The Foundation’s Hanover Community Fund accepts applications once a year. Applications received outside of the grant cycle are not accepted.

All non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply as well as groups and individuals working on a charitable community project. For-profit organizations will not be considered unless the request is for a charitable project. Grants will be limited to projects within Hanover, KS.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

Energy Efficiency Trust Fund Grant Program - Illinois

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) Office of Energy announces the availability of funds from the Energy Efficiency Trust Fund (“EE Trust Fund”). The EE Trust Fund was established by 20 ILCS 687/6-6 to benefit residential electric customers through projects reducing energy demand. Illinois EPA Office of Energy is responsible for establishing a list of projects eligible for grants from the EE Trust Fund and an application process with determined criteria for this grant program.

Illinois EPA Office of Energy is offering funding to public housing authorities, units of local government (municipalities, counties or townships), or nonprofit organizations for implementation of energy efficiency improvements benefitting residents participating in federal, state, or local public housing programs, housing choice vouchers, rental assistance, or subsidized housing assistance programs. Funding will be awarded for projects of up to forty (40) dwelling units per location, with costs not to exceed $20,000 per dwelling unit. The proposed improvement projects must include upgrades identified in an energy efficiency assessment conducted by a third-party assessor within the last five (5) years.

Eligible projects may include:

• Building envelope insulation
• Window replacement
• Space heating and cooling equipment retrofit
• Heating and cooling distribution system retrofit
• Domestic hot water equipment
• Lighting upgrades (indoor and/or outdoor)
• High-Efficiency appliance replacement
• Programmable thermostats

Awards will range from $50,000 to $1,000,000. There is a cost share/match requirement for this program.

The ASNT Foundation Fellowship Award offers $20,000 to support research and innovation in nondestructive testing (NDT). Aimed at graduate students and early-career professionals, this fellowship encourages the exploration of groundbreaking ideas and development of new technologies in the NDT field. Recipients will be notified after evaluations, and the award includes opportunities for recognition at the ASNT Annual Conference and presentation of findings at ASNT symposia. This initiative is crucial for nurturing future NDT leaders.

The Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) Program, initiated by the Kansas Department of Commerce, aims to revitalize underutilized downtown buildings in rural Kansas. The program offers grants for building and façade improvements, encouraging economic activity by supporting new businesses, housing, and civic engagement. Eligible projects must demonstrate potential for revitalization and adhere to local design standards. Funding includes up to $100,000 for building grants and $40,000 for façade improvements, requiring a 1:1 match from applicants.

The ASNT Foundation's Student Travel Grant aims to support full-time students pursuing nondestructive testing education by reimbursing up to $1,000 for travel expenses to the ASNT Research Symposium. This initiative not only encourages attendance at significant industry events but also provides complimentary student membership for recipients who are not ASNT members. The program highlights the Foundation's commitment to advancing the field through research, scholarships, and workforce development.

The ASNT Foundation offers the Robert B. Oliver Scholarship to support students enrolled in Nondestructive Testing (NDT) programs at U.S. institutions. With a funding amount of $2,500, the scholarship is awarded to students presenting the best original manuscript on NDT. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities and workforce development in the nondestructive testing field, promoting research and training for future professionals.

The ASNT Foundation's James J. Treat Scholarship aims to advance education in nondestructive testing (NDT) by providing financial support to students pursuing NDT degrees at accredited U.S. institutions. This initiative honors James J. Treat's legacy in the field and is designed to foster the next generation of NDT professionals. Scholarships will also support faculty development and workforce programs, helping to grow the skilled workforce needed in this vital industry.

The Texas Natural Gas Vehicle Grant Program (TNGVGP), managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, aims to support the transition from diesel or gasoline vehicles to natural gas-powered vehicles. This program facilitates the replacement or repowering of heavy-duty and medium-duty vehicles with compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Eligible applicants can include up to 10 vehicles per application, promoting cleaner transportation options.

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Washington County Opportunity Fund

The Washington County Opportunity Fund is an unrestricted community grant fund. The Fund was created by the generosity of individuals who have contributed money to the Foundation for charitable use to address the present and future needs of Washington County.

From this endowed fund, the Foundation Board annually determines and designates the amount of available funding in the form of community grants.

The Foundation’s Washington County Opportunity Fund accepts applications once a year in the spring. Applications received outside of the grant cycle are not accepted.

The applications are open to a variety of issues and target populations. However, successful applications are those that will help fulfill the Foundation’s mission to improve the quality of life for Washington County.

All non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply as well as groups and individuals working on a charitable community project. For-profit organizations will not be considered unless the request is for a charitable project. Grants will be limited to projects within Washington County.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

The GA Research Awards, established by the Geologists' Association since 1858, aim to promote geological study among all members with at least one year's standing, supporting research in earth sciences. Grants, typically up to £600, can fund fieldwork, museum visits, and laboratory consumables. Non-members may also apply for limited funding for fieldwork. The initiative fosters inclusivity and awareness of geological heritage, encouraging both seasoned researchers and newcomers to explore the natural world.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

The Harry Kizirian Award, administered by the Ocean State Charities Trust, aims to enhance the quality of life for Rhode Islanders by supporting charitable organizations. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) entities, incorporated in Rhode Island, and operational for at least two years. Grants are awarded semi-annually, with a maximum of $20,000 per application. The Trust prioritizes social welfare initiatives in housing, health, and education, ensuring a direct impact within the state.

The Scaling and Assessing Developmental Education Reform grant, funded by the Illinois Community College Board, aims to enhance equitable, evidence-based developmental education initiatives. Established to support educational organizations, this grant encourages the evaluation and expansion of reform efforts that benefit women and other underserved populations in Illinois. With a rich history spanning over 50 years, the Illinois Community College System continues to provide vital educational opportunities to more than 500,000 residents annually.

The Philip J. Wyatt Award in Analytical Chemistry, established in 1947 and endowed by the Wyatt Family Foundation in 2026, recognizes outstanding contributions to analytical chemistry. Offered by the American Chemical Society, the award includes a $5,000 prize and a certificate, with up to $2,500 for travel expenses to the award presentation meeting. This award supports diversity and inclusion by being available regardless of race, gender, or background, promoting a global community in the field of chemistry.

The FiO + LS Incubic Milton Chang Travel Grant, funded by the Optica Foundation, offers seven $1,000 grants to support students presenting papers at the Frontiers in Optics + Laser Science conference. Established in 2002, the Optica Foundation promotes the development of students and early career professionals in optics. Eligible applicants must submit their paper to the competition and demonstrate a need for travel support. This initiative aids in fostering research and innovation in the optics field.

The PLTW Computer Science Program Expansion grant, funded by Pentair, aims to support schools in enhancing their existing PLTW Computer Science courses for the 2026-2027 school year. Grantees can utilize the $10,000 funding for activities such as adding new courses, increasing class periods, or training additional educators. Eligible schools are primarily public and charter institutions located in specific cities, while certain expenses like salaries and infrastructure improvements are ineligible for funding.

The Folke H. Peterson Foundation Grant aims to prevent cruelty to animals and enhance their welfare. It provides funding for organizations focused on animal protection, medical assistance, and food supplies, ensuring these efforts directly benefit animals. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations within the United States. Notably, the foundation will not support any organization involved in euthanizing healthy animals, reinforcing its commitment to animal welfare.

The ACTF Low-Middle Economy Scholarships aim to support citizens from developing countries in acquiring analytical science skills through short-term study in the UK or Ireland. This scholarship, valued at up to £5,000, facilitates practical learning experiences to enhance analytical chemistry knowledge, fostering beneficial impacts upon scholars' return home. Preference is given to programs promising tangible benefits rather than purely academic pursuits, ensuring the funding directly contributes to the development of analytical expertise in low-middle economy countries.

The Bennett Memorial Student Travel Grant, established by the Optica Foundation, honors the legacy of Jean Bennett, a pioneering physicist. This grant awards two student members with $1,000 each to support their travel for presenting research at the Frontiers in Optics conference. Eligible applicants must be current members and the presenters of accepted papers or posters. This initiative aims to foster the next generation of leaders in optics and related fields.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) offers the Intervention Best Practices (TIER) grant to support school systems, education service centers, and nonprofit organizations in developing evidence-based intervention strategies. This program aims to enhance the capacity of educational institutions to implement a comprehensive framework that integrates differentiated instruction, promoting academic, behavioral, and social success for all students throughout Texas.

The Economics program by the National Science Foundation supports research to enhance understanding of the U.S. economy and global systems. It prioritizes interdisciplinary studies and encourages diverse proposals, including those from junior faculty and underrepresented groups. Funding opportunities range from individual projects to doctoral dissertation improvement grants, emphasizing rigorous economic analysis and data collection. The program aims to strengthen links between economics and other disciplines, fostering innovative research in various economic subfields.