Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

Evolve Houston’s eMobility Grants offer vital funding to community leaders and organizations, enabling them to launch innovative projects that enhance access to clean transportation in underserved neighborhoods. With grants up to $15,000, these initiatives focus on electric mobility solutions, including infrastructure development, education, and workforce training. Since 2022, Evolve Houston has supported over 50 community-led projects, continuing its mission to create a cleaner, more connected Houston through sustainable mobility options.

The FY2025-27 Biennial Budget provided $4 million for Dam Grants with the majority being committed to fund eligible engineering and construction costs associated with the maintenance, repair, modification or abandonment and removal of municipally owned dams.The Municipal Dam grant program provides a cost-sharing opportunity for eligible engineering and construction costs for dam maintenance, repair, modification or abandonment and removal.  Applicants must have an Engineer's inspection order or directive and a Dam Failure Analysis sufficient to identify the hazard potential based on the current development in the hydraulic shadow downstream of the dam. Applicants must have an Engineer's inspection order or directive and a Dam Failure Analysis sufficient to identify the hazard potential based on the current development in the hydraulic shadow downstream of the dam.

The H. Branch Howe Grant, offered by the Georgia Ornithological Society, supports graduate students conducting ornithological research in Georgia. This grant encourages the scientific study of birds and conservation efforts, providing funding for research that enhances knowledge of avian life. Eligibility is limited to graduate students in Georgia, and preference is given to projects within state boundaries. The GOS aims to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among those passionate about birds and nature.

The TOS Conservation and Research Grant, offered by the Tennessee Ornithological Society, aims to support projects that protect Tennessee's birds and enhance scientific knowledge. With a total funding of $15,000, the grants are open to anyone with bird-related initiatives, including students and professionals. Applicants can also allocate up to $50 for attending scientific meetings to present their project results. A recommendation letter is encouraged to strengthen applications.

The Healthy Environment, Healthy Communities Grant Program in the Jones Falls Watershed supports vital environmental action and restoration projects. Originating from a federal consent decree, this initiative aims to enhance the local ecosystem by funding diverse projects that improve natural resources. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, community associations, and local government agencies. While match funding is encouraged, it is not mandatory. Grants typically range from $30,000 to $100,000, with no strict maximum or minimum amounts.

The Howard K. Gloyd-Edward H. Taylor Scholarship, awarded by the Kansas Herpetological Society, supports KHS members enrolled in accredited educational institutions. This $300 scholarship recognizes students' potential contributions to herpetology, encouraging self-nominations and requiring academic references. Eligible applicants range from high school to university students. Nominations must detail qualifications and future plans in herpetology and are due by September 25, with winners announced at the KHS annual meeting in November.

The William Brewster Memorial Award, awarded by the American Ornithological Society, recognizes exemplary contributions to ornithological science through a significant body of work on Western Hemisphere birds published in the last decade. This prestigious award honors the legacy of William Brewster, a founding member of the American Ornithologists' Union, and includes a medal and honorarium funded by the William Brewster Memorial Fund. Nominations are open to all, fostering diversity in ornithology.

The Roanoke Women's Foundation offers impactful grants starting at $30,000 across various sectors such as Arts & Culture, Education, Environment, and Health & Human Services. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, based in or serving the defined Roanoke area, and have a history of at least five years without receiving a grant. The selection process includes proposal reviews and a membership vote in autumn, ensuring community-driven funding.

The Ralph W. Schreiber Conservation Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society (AOS), honors individuals or small teams for exceptional contributions to bird conservation. Recognizing efforts in applied research, habitat preservation, and educational initiatives, this award aims to encourage the scientific study of birds and promote ethical practices in ornithology. Nominees must be AOS members, ensuring a commitment to the society's mission of fostering a diverse and engaged ornithological community.

The Peter R. Stettenheim Service Award, established by the American Ornithological Society in 2018, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to ornithology and the society. This award recognizes those who have served in various capacities, highlighting volunteer work, mentorship, and committee involvement. It is named after Peter Stettenheim, a notable leader in ornithology, who was dedicated to advancing the field and supporting fellow ornithologists throughout his career.

The Marion Jenkinson Service Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, honors early- and mid-career ornithologists for their extensive volunteer contributions and service to the society. This award includes a framed certificate and recognizes individuals who exemplify high ethical standards aligned with the AOS Code of Conduct. The award aims to foster a diverse and supportive ornithological community while promoting bird conservation and scientific study.

The Jana Trust Fund Grant supports early career biologists in sub-Saharan Africa with projects focused on the conservation of endangered mammals, particularly elephants. Grants of up to 1,500 euros are available for research and related expenses, including travel to conferences. Applications are accepted year-round, with funding awarded in three cycles each year. Successful applicants can reapply after 12 months. This initiative honors Jana's legacy by promoting vital conservation efforts.

The J. Larry Landers Student Research Award, offered by the Gopher Tortoise Council, provides funding for undergraduate and graduate students conducting research on gopher tortoise biology or upland habitat conservation. With an average award of $1,000, applicants must submit a four-page proposal, including project details and a budget. This grant aims to support original student-led research within the southeastern U.S., where the gopher tortoise is native, thus promoting vital ecological studies.

The Boren Scholarship offers funding for U.S. undergraduate students to study critical languages abroad, enhancing their linguistic and cultural competencies. The program prioritizes students committed to public service in national security roles and supports immersive experiences in diverse regions, excluding Western Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Awards vary based on the duration of study, with amounts reaching up to $25,000 for longer programs. This initiative fosters a deeper understanding of global cultures, vital for U.S. interests.

Fatherhood Request for Proposal (RFP)

This application packet contains guidelines for submitting an application to ADCANP for a performance-based contract to provide opportunities to families with custodial fathers and mothers. Activities (training, workshops, conferences, counseling, etc.) should encourage and facilitate active parenting by non-custodial fathers/mothers. The goals are to increase the parents’ involvement in their children’s lives, provide employment training and skills, and increase child support payments/collection. Federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds for this competitive selection process are provided to ADCANP through a partnership with the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR).

The target population for Fatherhood Programs should include (but are not limited to) non-custodial and custodial mothers and fathers who:

• Are unemployed or underemployed (income less than 200% of the federal poverty level)
• Lack a high school diploma or GED
• Lack the skills to obtain gainful employment
• Males or females over the age of 18 with children
• Reside in the state of Alabama

The TANF funds available for these initiatives will address the following goals:

• To gain employment skills and certifications that will allow participants to secure employment
• that can provide for the family and promote self-sufficiency
• To find and retain suitable employment
• To improve awareness of participants’ roles in the lives of their child(ren)
• To establish high-quality, emotionally supportive relationships with their children
• To pay child support and provide other financial support for their child(ren)
• To support Re-Entry services for formerly incarcerated parents

The Ned K. Johnson Early Investigator Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, recognizes exceptional early-career researchers in ornithology. Awardees receive a certificate, a $1,500 honorarium, and complimentary registration for the annual meeting, where they can present a plenary. Candidates must have received their doctorate between 2019 and 2022, and demonstrate ethical standards aligned with the AOS Code of Conduct. This award fosters leadership and innovation in bird conservation and research.

The Schreiber Foods Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations addressing food insecurity and basic needs in Wisconsin. Open year-round, it encourages nonprofits in Brown, Calumet, and surrounding counties to apply for funding, which typically ranges from $1,000 to $100,000. The foundation prioritizes innovative solutions that enhance community quality of life, promote self-sufficiency, and foster partnerships. Notably, it does not fund religious activities, individuals, or debt retirement, ensuring a focus on impactful community projects.

The See, Test & Treat Grant offers funding for a pathologist-led cancer screening program aimed at underserved communities. With a focus on health education, the program provides vital cervical and breast cancer screenings, ensuring same-day results and follow-up care. Eligible institutions can apply for funding up to $20,000 for single-year projects or up to $50,000 over three years. This initiative addresses health disparities, empowers communities, and enhances the visibility of pathology in healthcare.

NC DEQ 319 Grant Program

Through Section 319(h) of the Clean Water Act, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides states with funding to reduce nonpoint source pollution. North Carolina typically receives around $1 million for competitive funding of watershed restoration projects. Funds may be used to conduct watershed restoration projects such as stormwater and agricultural best management practices and restoration of impaired streams. Section 319 grant projects must be used to help restore waterbodies currently impaired by nonpoint source pollution in areas with approved watershed restoration plans. (map) (list)

State and local governments, interstate and intrastate agencies, public and private nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions are all eligible to apply for 319 funding. An interagency workgroup reviews the proposals and selects those of merit to be funded. 

The Knight Fund Grant Program, managed by the Community Foundation of Grand Forks, aims to enhance connections between the University of North Dakota and the Downtown area through the University Avenue Corridor. This initiative focuses on improving community engagement, enhancing public spaces, and building on local assets to foster economic mobility and entrepreneurship. The fund specifically targets projects that unite diverse communities and support civic infrastructure, while excluding certain non-program expenses and individual applications.

The Andersons Fund Supporting Organization aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals and families in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan, particularly in the greater Toledo area. It supports nonprofit organizations with grants for programs in education, social services, mental health, urban affairs, natural resources, and the arts. The Fund prioritizes capital projects and evaluates the financial stability and operational issues of requesting organizations.

The NC Specialty Crop Block Grant Program aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, and nursery crops. Administered by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, the program offers funding to support projects that improve food safety, research, and distribution efficiency. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and government agencies. This initiative promotes sustainable practices and increases nutrition knowledge related to specialty crops, benefiting both producers and consumers.

Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT)

Safe Routes to School Infrastructure (SRTS) Program Grant Solicitation

The Minnesota Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Infrastructure Program was established by the Minnesota Legislature in 2012 and is defined in Minnesota Statute 174.40. MnDOT State Aid for Local Transportation (SALT) and the Office of Transit and Active Transportation (OTAT) share responsibilities for the administration and oversight of the SRTS program. SALT administers the SRTS infrastructure funds on local roads (county, city, township, and Tribal owned roadways), and OTAT administers the non-infrastructure SRTS funds. Up to $8,500,000.00 in grant funds are available for this 2024 SRTS infrastructure solicitation.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) State Aid for Local Transportation (SALT) administers the state SRTS infrastructure program with guidance from the Infrastructure Work Group (IWG) of the Active Transportation Advisory Committee (ATAC). The process, criteria, and prioritization for the solicitation are required by statute to establish a geographic equity-based project evaluation and selection process that is competitive, criteria-based, and objective. Projects are selected and approved by the Infrastructure Work Group of the Active Transportation Advisory Committee to provide financial assistance to eligible recipients to construct capital improvement of transportation infrastructure that improves safety and encourages non-motorized transportation to and from schools.

The Watershed Association Professional Development Mini-Grants support staff and volunteers of watershed organizations in the Lake Champlain Basin. These grants cover costs for professional development activities aimed at enhancing water quality and organizational capacity. Eligible organizations include 501c3 nonprofits focused on water stewardship. Preference is given to those with previous LCBP contracts exceeding $4,000. Applications are accepted monthly, with awards announced shortly after deadlines.

The Reinberger Foundation offers Human Service Grants to support organizations helping underserved individuals achieve self-sufficiency and community enrichment. Priority is given to those who have received funding in the past five years. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and serve within Ohio, particularly in Cuyahoga and Franklin counties. The foundation focuses on critical areas such as housing stability, food insecurity, and family violence.

The Kansas City Royals Foundation Grants Program has distributed over $25 million since 2001, focusing on Literacy and Education, Healthy and Active Communities, and Military and Veteran Support. Key initiatives include scholarships for underrepresented students, youth engagement through sports, and veteran recognition at games. Organizations within the greater Kansas City area are encouraged to apply, particularly those with budgets under $5 million. The foundation prioritizes projects aligning with its strategic pillars, fostering community growth and support.