Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Aquatic Stewardship Grant Program, managed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, aims to enhance aquatic stewardship through engaging educational experiences. Eligible organizations, including schools and conservation groups, can apply for up to $7,500 per fiscal year for projects that promote hands-on aquatic education. Key criteria include the necessity for educational components in fishing activities and a commitment to inclusivity for all participants.

The Foster Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Pacific Northwest that align with priority funding issues such as social services, education, medical research, and community engagement. The foundation seeks to cultivate long-term partnerships and is committed to improving community life through various initiatives. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) status and address one of the foundation's priority issues while ensuring that funds are used within the designated geographic reach.

The Community Chest Annual Grants provide financial support to nonprofits in New Jersey, focusing on key areas including mental health services, food insecurity, home care, educational enhancement, and racial justice education. Organizations that have been operational for over two years and comply with diversity guidelines are encouraged to apply. Priority will be given to initiatives addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly those impacted by the pandemic. Grants can support a range of programs aimed at fostering community well-being and resilience.

The Appleton-Whittell Research Ranch Fellowship Program supports young scientists conducting research aimed at preserving and enhancing grassland ecosystems in southeastern Arizona. With a focus on conservation, research, and education, the program offers a cash award and housing voucher to facilitate impactful studies on climate change, community engagement, and species conservation. This initiative not only fosters scientific rigor but also encourages a new generation of conservationists dedicated to safeguarding vital ecosystems.

The Department of Natural Resources’ Watershed and Climate Services Grants Gateway

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Watershed & Climate Services (WCS) is committed to providing technical and financial assistance to Maryland’s communities that are challenged by intense storms, changing sea levels and increasing flooding, while balancing growing populations, economic growth, and increased tourism and recreation. These trends make the already challenging task of restoring the Chesapeake Bay, safeguarding people and infrastructure and managing natural resources even more complex.

Grants Gateway provides a resource for partners seeking technical and financial support for projects that foster healthy and resilient ecosystems, communities, and economies. Grants Gateway provides a centralized hub to streamline the grant application process for governments, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations.

Eligible projects across six programs (as above) will improve water quality, restore local waterways, increase community flood planning, develop the next generation of environmental stewards, improve shorelines, and plan for beneficial reuse.

Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund (Outcome 1)

There are two tracks including the traditional competitive grant program and the Pay for Performance track.

Traditional Competitive Grant Program

What kind of projects are supported by the Trust Fund?

Implementation-ready restoration proposals can be submitted under this funding source. Example projects can include, but are not limited to: wetland restoration, afforestation and other tree planting projects, riparian buffer restoration, stormwater best management practices, stream restoration, meadow plantings, and agricultural best management practices.

Projects must address water quality in the Chesapeake Bay or Atlantic Coastal Bays by reducing non-point source pollution, namely nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment. Projects should be cost-effective, located in targeted areas, and be implementation-ready. Competitive projects will be large-scale, multi-partnered efforts with demonstrable water quality benefits. Proposed projects should demonstrate the ability to construct within 12 months of award. Additionally, the state is interested in supporting projects that provide desirable co-benefits (Maryland Code, Natural Resources § 8-2A-04), including:

• The restoration of aquatic resources, such as seagrass beds or oyster reefs;
• Climate resilience;
• Carbon sequestration;
• Creation of wildlife habitat;
• Local employment opportunities;
• The improvement or provision of recreational opportunities; or
• Environmental justice benefits;

Funding is only available for projects located in the Maryland portions of both the Chesapeake Bay Watershed and the Atlantic Coastal Bays. Tree planting projects are eligible for all of Maryland. Public and private lands are eligible. Site visits are required for all stream restoration projects.

The BHHS Legacy Foundation Grant supports initiatives that improve health and quality of life for vulnerable Arizona residents. Since 2001, the Foundation has focused on four key areas: enhancing healthcare access, improving community health, developing the healthcare workforce, and strengthening community ties. Organizations seeking funding must demonstrate a clear health-related need and comply with eligibility criteria, including nonprofit status. This grant is vital for programs aiming to create sustainable health solutions in Arizona.

Amgen is a leading biotechnology company dedicated to advancing medicine through Independent Medical Education (IME). It funds accredited educational programs that empower healthcare providers to enhance patient care. IME funding supports critical areas such as oncology, bone health, cardiovascular education, and more. Amgen's commitment ensures that these educational activities remain unbiased and compliant with applicable guidelines, fostering innovation and improved health outcomes for patients worldwide.

The Community Foundation for Monterey County provides Community Impact Grants to support programs aimed at improving the lives of children, youth, and underserved populations. With an average grant award of $25,000, these grants focus on early childhood education, academic support, and health services. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public agencies in Monterey County. The foundation values innovative, collaborative proposals that demonstrate measurable impact and sustainability.

The Roblee Foundation Grant supports initiatives that promote equity in race, ethnicity, and gender. It prioritizes funding for proposals that empower marginalized communities through women's issues, youth opportunities, and early childhood education. Grants are available for projects in the St. Louis area and Miami-Dade, FL. Applicants must consult with foundation staff before submission. The foundation focuses on early, catalytic, and movement-building approaches to create lasting change and improve lives.

The City of Muskogee Foundation offers summer grants aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Muskogee through funding for nonprofit organizations, schools, and community projects. Established in 2008, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote education, arts, health, and economic development. Grants are awarded based on measurable outcomes and community needs, focusing on job creation, educational empowerment, and health initiatives. This effort fosters collaboration and innovation to create sustainable improvements for residents.

The Department of Natural Resources’ Watershed and Climate Services Grants Gateway

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Watershed & Climate Services (WCS) is committed to providing technical and financial assistance to Maryland’s communities that are challenged by intense storms, changing sea levels and increasing flooding, while balancing growing populations, economic growth, and increased tourism and recreation. These trends make the already challenging task of restoring the Chesapeake Bay, safeguarding people and infrastructure and managing natural resources even more complex.

Grants Gateway provides a resource for partners seeking technical and financial support for projects that foster healthy and resilient ecosystems, communities, and economies. Grants Gateway provides a centralized hub to streamline the grant application process for governments, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations.

Eligible projects across six programs (as above) will improve water quality, restore local waterways, increase community flood planning, develop the next generation of environmental stewards, improve shorelines, and plan for beneficial reuse.

Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund (Outcome 1)

There are two tracks including the traditional competitive grant program and the Pay for Performance track.

Pay for Performance Track

In addition to the traditional competitive grant program, the Trust Fund is soliciting pay for performance contracts that provide the following:

• Cost per lb or outcome and cost per unit of implementation that is more cost effective than traditional grant values, as seen in the Trust Fund Table. Maryland DNR may select to not fund proposals as Pay for Performance if found to be less cost effective than traditional grant mechanisms.

• Reduced risk to state as payments commence once the project is installed and verified, with subsequent payments offered once project is verified to be functioning and sustained

• Innovative projects and/or projects of scale: Large scale restoration where implementation units exceed traditional grant acreages; Additionally, the state is interested in supporting holistic projects that maximize co-benefits; Innovative BMPs with a quantifiable reduction in nutrient and/or sediment pollution or increase in co-benefits

• Measurement of goal attainment (%) - Measure of success is more specific than implementation units and must include measurement of hydric soils, plant survivability, canopy cover, plant density or other indicators that measure performance.

• Long-term sustainability of performance measures achieved through expected project lifespan, monitoring, easements/landowner agreements, operation and maintenance and/or adaptive management plans

Pre-Proposal Meetings are required for all Pay for Performance Proposals; site visits are required for stream restoration projects and strongly encouraged for other restoration practices.

The Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation's Community Solutions Grant Program aims to enhance the quality of life in the East Metro by supporting organizations and initiatives that are shaped by and benefit local residents. Through general operating, project, and capital support, the program prioritizes funding for community and economic development, health and human services, and youth and education initiatives, fostering sustainable growth in Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington counties.

The Hope Funds for Cancer Research offers a three-year Postdoctoral Fellowship for innovative research in understanding difficult-to-treat cancers. Candidates with MD, PhD, or equivalent degrees can apply, focusing on novel approaches to cancer mechanisms and treatments. The fellowship provides a stipend starting at $56,000, with annual increases, and a travel grant of $1,500 for conferences. This initiative aims to enhance life expectancy through groundbreaking research in cancer treatment and prevention.

The Altman Foundation Grant invites organizations with 501(c)(3) status in New York City to submit Letters of Inquiry for health-related projects. This funding focuses on improving access to quality healthcare for underserved populations, enhancing the capacity of local service providers, and addressing structural barriers to health equity. New grants are currently limited, and only health-related LOIs will be accepted. Eligible applicants should review specific interests outlined by the Foundation before applying.

Sustainability Grants provide essential operational support to charities in Door County, ensuring the quality of life for local residents. These grants assist with various needs, such as funding case managers for troubled teens, purchasing equipment for arts groups, and supporting educational programs. Although not glamorous, this funding is vital for maintaining community programs and addressing challenges faced by families during the seasonal economy. Grants typically range from $2,500 to $5,000.

The Trumbull Memorial Health Foundation Grants support innovative health projects in Trumbull County, focusing on mental health, access to care, and community safety. Grants are available to non-profit organizations that directly benefit local residents, with an emphasis on addressing disparities in health outcomes. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 organizations and government entities, while prioritizing partnerships that align with community health improvement strategies. This rolling application process allows for continuous submissions, ensuring timely funding decisions.

The Denver Foundation's Community Grants Program supports diverse organizations in Metro Denver, focusing on reducing disparities and promoting equity for underserved communities, including those living in poverty, immigrants, and people of color. The foundation prioritizes funding in areas such as economic opportunity, youth well-being, environment, and housing, investing in initiatives that foster a just and vibrant community. For more information, please visit their FAQs.

World Wildlife Fund

Since our founding in 1961, WWF has been committed to protecting nature and its resources. We understand that nature is our planet’s greatest asset, intrinsically linked to human survival — and that it needs our help. Our work to reverse nature loss and conserve biodiversity has never been more urgent.

As the world’s leading conservation organization—with offices on six continents and in nearly 100 countries—our global reach includes the world’s most critical forests, river systems, wetlands, savannas, and ocean habitats. By conserving these places and supporting sustainable livelihoods within them, we can keep the Earth in balance for people, wildlife, and the planet.

Environmental and Social Impact Grant

WWF’s Russell E Train Education for Nature Program (EFN) invites proposals focused on collaborative capacity building related to (i) environmental and social impacts and risks of development projects on ecosystems and their services and (ii) enhancing inclusive conservation and sustainable development. The Environmental and Social Impact Grant aims to provide competitive financial support to teams and institutions working in Kenya, Tanzania, and Madagascar focusing on enhancing capacities to address environmental and social impact assessment capacity building needs with an emphasis on local communities and local practitioners.

The proposals should target diverse audiences involved in addressing social and environmental issues associated with the execution and management of conservation and development initiatives, particularly with a focus on WWF key goals including climate, food, forests, freshwater, oceans, and wildlife.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

The Georgia Power Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations, providing funding to empower local communities in Georgia. Grant requests of up to $25,000 are reviewed on an ongoing basis, while larger requests require board approval. The foundation prioritizes Georgia-based initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents. Notably, grants are not available for individuals, political campaigns, or organizations that discriminate based on race, gender, or other factors. This commitment reflects over 130 years of community support.

The Renewable Resource Project Grants, administered by the Montana Department of Natural Resources & Conservation, support the conservation and enhancement of renewable resources in Montana. Eligible applicants include cities, counties, and tribal governments, with funding available for various projects such as irrigation rehabilitation, dam repair, and public facility improvements. This program enables communities to address essential resource management needs effectively.

The ICCF Community Improvement Grants support projects addressing education, human services, workforce development, and environmental initiatives that benefit Iosco County residents. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) non-profits, government entities, schools, and universities. Grants can reach up to $10,000 per cycle, with final reporting required. Notably, projects cannot receive funding for two consecutive cycles and must not promote religious beliefs or support individuals. This program aims to enhance community well-being and sustainability.

The IUSCCC Community-Academic Collaborative Program Award invites proposals aimed at addressing cancer burdens in Indiana through evidence-based programs. These initiatives must focus on major cancer types such as lung, breast, and prostate, and include an evaluation component. Community-led projects that engage underserved populations are particularly encouraged. The funding duration is one year, with a budget cap of $15,000. Proposals require prior approval through a Letter of Intent.

North Carolina Sea Grant

Under executive director Susan White, North Carolina Sea Grant works with local, state, and national policymakers and scientists to co-produce critical projects in four focus areas: healthy coastal ecosystems, resilient communities and economies, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, and environmental literacy and workforce development. 

With significant returns on investment for coastal North Carolina, we forge partnerships and support research, education, and outreach. Funding opportunities include grants for established scientists and specialists, fellowships to develop the next generation of researchers and policymakers, and special collaborations that fuse community and academic expertise.

North Carolina Team Competition for Resilience Research

This funding opportunity, supported by North Carolina Sea Grant, provides awards to teams of North Carolina-based graduate and undergraduate students led by a PhD student. Winning teams will conduct hypothesis-based research projects that contribute to more resilient habitats and communities across North Carolina.

Research Focus Areas

Proposals must address at least one core aspect of resilience in North Carolina:

• Ecosystem Resilience
• Community Resilience
• Economic Resilience

The Clean Water and Healthy Ecosystems Research Projects, funded by the Lake Champlain Basin Program, aim to enhance water quality and ecological health in the Lake Champlain Basin. These grants support research initiatives aligned with the Opportunities for Action management plan, facilitating community-driven stewardship. Projects may include implementation studies or pilot programs to assess the efficacy of conservation efforts. The program emphasizes collaboration among diverse stakeholders to ensure sustainable management of the basin's natural resources.

The WSFS Foundation Grant aims to support nonprofit organizations focused on enhancing community investment, providing affordable housing, and promoting education and leadership development. The foundation emphasizes initiatives that are innovative and sustainable, fostering diversity and inclusion. Eligible organizations must align with the foundation's vision and demonstrate a commitment to non-discrimination. This grant encourages programs that improve the quality of life and economic well-being within the communities it serves.