Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Therapeutic Garden Grants program, sponsored by the National Garden Bureau, awards $7,500 annually to five selected therapeutic gardens, promoting health and healing through gardening. Organizations must have a defined therapeutic program for at least a year and a commitment to the garden for five years. Grants are co-funded by several partners, and winners are determined through a social media voting contest, ensuring community engagement and visibility for the gardens.

The AHNS Presidential Award supports innovative research targeting novel therapeutic approaches in head and neck cancer. With a funding amount of $15,000 for one year, this grant encourages projects that utilize advanced methodologies such as genomics and immune profiling. Applicants must be AHNS members in good standing and provide letters of support from their institution. The goal is to foster research that can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies for this challenging disease.

The City of Naperville's Special Events and Community Arts Program supports individual artists and artistic groups by providing funding for social and artistic events that celebrate the community's diversity and heritage. Since its inception in 2004, the SECA Fund has aimed to enhance cultural experiences for both residents and visitors. Applicants are required to attend a workshop, and funds cannot be used for certain expenses, including travel and food purchases, ensuring that resources are effectively allocated.

The CORE Funding - AHNS/AAO-HNSF Young Investigator Research Development Award offers $50,000 over two years to support early-career head and neck surgeons in developing research skills in neoplastic disease. This award encourages collaborative projects and requires applicants to submit a detailed budget and letters of support from key personnel. Priority is given to junior faculty and those introducing innovative methodologies. This funding serves as a stepping stone for future NIH grant applications.

The Creative Communities San Diego Grant Program supports nonprofit organizations in delivering impactful arts and culture projects that engage diverse communities. Projects can include art exhibitions, performances, and festivals, fostering a sustainable creative ecosystem in San Diego. Applicants can receive funding based on project budgets and organizational rankings, with awards ranging from $5,000 to 43% of project costs. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility and promote creativity in local neighborhoods.

The Building for the Arts Grant, provided by the Washington State Department of Commerce, supports nonprofit organizations in funding up to 33% of eligible capital costs for acquiring, constructing, or renovating arts and cultural facilities. This initiative aims to enhance community engagement and accessibility to the arts, fostering a vibrant cultural landscape across the state. Eligible organizations are encouraged to apply for this vital support to advance their projects.

The Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust Grant supports education and research in ornamental horticulture, funding projects that enhance public gardens, promote ornamental plants, and support related educational initiatives. Grants typically range up to $20,000, with a maximum of $25,000, focusing on project support rather than general operating expenses. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) public charities and similar entities worldwide, while the Trust does not fund individuals or capital campaigns.

The Innovation and Research Fellowship Program (IRFP) Grant, sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, aims to foster technological research and support the innovation ecosystem in New Jersey. It encourages Ph.D. candidates and graduates to collaborate with local science and technology firms. Grants may be awarded for up to two years, contingent upon funding availability, and are intended to primarily fund research and innovation activities.

Outstanding Educator Award (2026-05-01)

Since 1985, the AGC Education and Research Foundation has recognized annually an educator who makes a significant mark in the field of construction education. The Outstanding Educator award is based on a nominee’s academic contribution as well as his/her work with students outside of the classroom and involvement with colleagues in the industry.

The Outstanding Educator receives a $5,000 cash award and may name two students as recipients of $2,500 scholarships for the coming academic year. In addition, the recipient will be invited to the annual AGC convention as a guest of the foundation.

The Inclusive Arts Fund supports small to mid-sized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations focused on arts and culture within Southeast Michigan. This highly competitive fund aims to enhance accessibility, boost organizational capacity, and drive regional economic impact across seven counties. By fostering affordable, high-quality arts experiences, the fund seeks to ensure that the arts are a vital contributor to community vitality and growth.

The NIH Director's Pioneer Award Program aims to support exceptionally creative scientists who propose innovative research projects with the potential to significantly impact biomedical sciences. The program encourages bold ideas that diverge from existing research trajectories and welcomes applications across all areas of the biomedical field. As part of the High-Risk, High-Reward Research Program, this award fosters pioneering efforts that may lead to transformative advancements in health and medicine.

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

Delphos Community Fund

This is an unrestricted community grant fund that supports the Delphos, KS community..

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 Small and Midsized Capital Improvement Grants for Arts and Culture provide funding for nonprofit arts and culture organizations in New York, offering grants up to $2 million. These grants focus on projects that enhance accessibility, artistry, cultural development, and sustainability. Smaller no-match grants ranging from $10,000 to $99,000 are available for organizations with operating budgets under $2 million, encouraging strong design and community engagement.

The Large Capital Improvement Grants for Arts and Culture, offered by the New York State Council on the Arts, provide significant funding ranging from $2 million to $10 million for arts and cultural nonprofits. These grants support large-scale capital projects that enhance cultural programming and accessibility, aiming to engage diverse audiences and promote equity. Applicants must commit to initiatives that advance social equity and contribute to the state's economic development goals.

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

Bennington Community Fund

This is an unrestricted community grant fund that supports the Bennington, KS community.

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 NIH Director's Early Independence Award encourages exceptional early-career researchers to embark on independent research immediately after completing their doctoral degree or clinical training. This initiative accelerates the transition to independent research careers while supporting innovative projects across all areas of biomedical sciences. It is part of the NIH Common Fund's High-Risk, High-Reward Research program, aiming to foster groundbreaking discoveries.

The Public Safety Organizations Grants aim to enhance the grantwriting capabilities of public safety organizations, allowing them to apply for funding opportunities effectively. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public school systems, and local government units serving Polk County. The grants facilitate access to conferences and resources that improve knowledge and expertise necessary for securing non-local grants, ensuring that these organizations remain competitive and well-informed in their funding pursuits.

The COAD Appalachian Development Fund Grants, offered by the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, aim to enhance the quality of life in Appalachian Ohio through innovative programs. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to nonprofit and public organizations serving the region. Priority is given to projects led by local organizations, promoting community development and addressing specific needs. Past awards include housing coordinators and infrastructure improvements, reflecting a commitment to sustainable growth and support for COAD member agencies.

The purpose of Digital Literacy Training is to create strategic partnerships with qualifying agencies to deliver digital skills training to the WorkFirst New Jersey population to overcome the digital divide and empower participants by improving skills with technology-based learning and resources.

The Building for Equity: Capacity Building Grants support organizations in enhancing their long-term facility needs with funding up to $25,000. This initiative prioritizes projects that aid in advocating, planning, and constructing spaces for cultural programming, particularly for underserved communities in King County. Through a competitive evaluation process, grants aim to foster sustainability and community benefit, emphasizing cultural equity and access across the region.

2026-2028 System of Great Schools: Advisor Pool Management

Program Description

TEA’s Division of System Support builds the capacity of districts to plan and execute school actions to ensure that every student has access to a high-quality fit school. One way the division builds the capacity of districts and leaders is through the System of Great Schools (SGS) network. The SGS strategy is a district-wide innovation and problem-solving approach that seeks to:

1) empower educators to design and lead high-quality schools;

2) empower families with high-quality options and informed choices; and

3) focus central office on high-leverage oversight, innovation, and support activities. 

About the Community Foundation of Washington County The Community Foundation of Washington County serves as vehicle for philanthropy and a powerful force in improving the quality of life in Washington County. We partner with individuals, families and businesses to create or donate to funds that meet their charitable goals and provide for the causes they care about the most. 

The Community Foundation of Washington County, MD offers more than 100 scholarships for graduating high school students and non-traditional students in continuing education. 

Patterson Graff Educational Fund

This scholarship fund will support females in furthering their education, in any field, to reach their educational goals.

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

Ottawa County Impact Fund

The Ottawa County Impact 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 Ottawa County.

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

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 Ottawa 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 Ottawa 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 ARS Women in Rhinology Research Grant, sponsored by Medtronic, offers $25,000 for one year to support innovative research in rhinology. Eligible applicants must be members of the American Rhinologic Society who have completed their residency, with at least one female investigator involved. The award covers legitimate research costs, with a detailed budget required. Results must be presented at an ARS national meeting, acknowledging the grant's support. This initiative fosters women's contributions to rhinology research.