Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Indigo Oak Fund, a Colorado-based private foundation, focuses on empowering women and children through various initiatives. By funding organizations that address issues such as domestic abuse, food insecurity, and gender equity, the Fund aims to improve lives and foster lifelong learning. Their mission emphasizes recognizing individual potential and ensuring equal opportunity for all, making a significant impact in communities across Colorado and the Bay Area.

The Dr. Alice M. Hudder- Richard T. Molder Post-Secondary Scholarship Fund, established by Richard Molder, supports Erie County high school seniors pursuing post-secondary education. In 2023, the Erie Community Foundation awarded over $800,000 in scholarships to deserving students. Two awards will be granted: one for students focusing on science, math, or business, and another for those studying art or music, emphasizing financial need and a strong work ethic.

About Us

The Vermont Agency of Natural Resources is charged with oversight and management of Vermont's natural environment on behalf of the people of Vermont. We endeavor to draw from and build upon Vermonters' shared ethic of responsibility for our natural environment, an ethic that encompasses a sense of place, community and quality of life, and an understanding that we are an integral part of the environment and that we must all be responsible stewards for this and future generations.

Combined Sewer Overflow Program

The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation will issue grants from our ARPA allocations to municipalities to accelerate CSO elimination projects, allowing these projects to progress on a faster schedule and with more affordability to the ratepayers. The allocations have been outlined in the State Fiscal Year 2023 Intended Use Plan and will be able to be used towards CSO abatement projects submitted for the project priority list.

Equity Considerations

ARPA funds will help disadvantaged communities address the public health and economic crises caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and help protect them from future crises. ARPA funding will be prioritized to help CSO communities. CSO communities carry higher debt burdens than communities that have separate stormwater systems and this creates a hardship for ratepayers and the development of other necessary infrastructure projects.

Perkins Overview

Perkins V

The Smith-Hughes Act of 1917 was the first authorization for the federal funding of vocational education (now known as career and technical education). Subsequent legislation included the Vocational Act of 1973 and the Carl D. Perkins Act of 1984 (Perkins). Perkins was reauthorized as the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Act (Perkins II) in 1990, the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 1998 (Perkins III), the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 (Perkins IV), and most recently as the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V).

As put forth in the legislation, the purpose of Perkins V is:

To develop more fully the academic knowledge and technical and employability skills of secondary and postsecondary students who elect to enroll in career and technical education programs and programs of study, by—

• building on the efforts of States and localities to develop challenging academic and technical standards and to assist students in meeting such standards, including preparation for high skill, high wage, or in-demand occupations in current or emerging professions; 
• promoting the development of services and activities that integrate rigorous and challenging academic and career and technical instruction, and that link secondary and postsecondary education for participating career and technical education students; 
• increasing State and local flexibility in providing services and activities designed to develop, implement, and improve career and technical education; 
• conducting and disseminating national research and disseminating information on best practices that improve career and technical education programs and programs of study, services, and activities; 
• providing technical assistance that—promotes leadership, initial preparation, and professional development at the State and local levels; and improves the quality of career and technical education teachers, faculty, administrators and counselors; 
• supporting partnerships among secondary schools, postsecondary institutions, baccalaureate degree granting institutions, area career and technical education schools, local workforce investment boards, business and industry and intermediaries; 
• providing individuals with opportunities throughout their lifetimes to develop, in conjunction with other education and training programs, the knowledge and skills to keep the United States competitive; and
• increasing the employment opportunities for populations who are chronically unemployed or underemployed, including individuals with disabilities, individuals from economically disadvantaged families, out-of-workforce individuals, youth who are in, or have aged out of, the foster care system, and homeless individuals. 

Carl D. Perkins Career And Technical Education Act of 2006 as Amended By The Strengthening Career and Technical Education For The 21st Century Act Sec. 2. [20 U.S.C. 2301]. 

The Highland Street Foundation Grant supports critical needs for children and families in Massachusetts and California. Focused on education, housing, health care, and the arts, it awards grants based on established relationships with nonprofit partners. The foundation does not accept unsolicited proposals and limits submissions to one letter of inquiry per organization each year. Organizations outside the U.S. are not eligible for funding, ensuring support remains local.

The Urban and Community Forestry Grant Program, previously known as the RI America the Beautiful Grant Program, supports projects enhancing urban and community forest management. This initiative aims to promote sustainable practices, protect trees from various threats, and improve public awareness of the importance of tree cover. Eligible applicants include local and state governments, educational institutions, and certain non-profits. Projects should align with the goals outlined in the Rhode Island Forest Action Plan to qualify for funding.

Oklahoma District Attorneys Council

The primary function of the District Attorneys Council is to provide a professional organization for the education, training and coordination of technical efforts of all District Attorneys of the State. The DAC assists local District Attorneys by providing financial, personnel, and other administrative services upon request. The Council is the administrative agency for the Crime Victims Compensation Board and the state administrative agency for several federal grants.

It is important to note that the DAC does not have control over individual District Attorneys. Its functions are advisory and administrative support only. The DAC does not have the power to investigate, stop, or otherwise prevent a District Attorney from prosecuting an individual or group.

S.T.O.P. Violence Against Women Grant (VAWA)

The purpose of the S.T.O.P. (Services-Training-Officers-Prosecutors) Violence Against Women Grant Program is to develop and strengthen the criminal justice system's response to violence against women and to support and enhance services for victims. The S.T.O.P. VAWA Grant Program encourages victim service providers, prosecutors, law enforcement, and the courts to implement coordinated multidisciplinary approaches to address domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is launching a specialized entrepreneurship program aimed at life science researchers in the field of substance use disorders (SUD). This initiative will equip researchers with essential skills to transform their innovative ideas into viable products, focusing on aspects such as market evaluation, customer discovery, and intellectual property. The course will be delivered in a hybrid format to engage US-based SUD researchers effectively, fostering collaboration and advancing the field.

The Credentials to Careers Grant supports Iowa school districts in enhancing career and technical education (CTE) programs that lead to student attainment of industry-recognized credentials. This initiative encourages districts to apply for funding based on a tiered structure, considering labor-market value. Priority is given to those districts that have not previously received funding and demonstrate sustainable integration of credential attainment into CTE pathways, empowering students with valuable skills for high-demand occupations.

Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education provides leadership, oversight, funding, support, and accountability for the Commonwealth's approximately 400 school districts that educate close to 1 million public school children each year. We also oversees programs that serve 20,000 adult learners each year.

Massachusetts YouthBuild Coalition Program

Purpose

The purpose of this RFP is to provide funding to members of the Massachusetts YouthBuild Coalition, Inc., for comprehensive education, workforce training and skills development to youth as outlined in the FY2027 state budget.

Priorities

The Massachusetts YouthBuild Coalition provides young people between the ages of 16–24 the chance to turn their lives around through curriculum that combines academic instruction with workforce development training in which students spend one week in the classroom working toward their high school equivalency or diploma, followed by one week on a job site building or renovating affordable housing in their communities.

The Variety Sunshine Coach Grant Program aids children with special needs in Southern California by providing essential resources for mobility, education, and healthcare. Celebrating over 30 years, this initiative offers specially equipped Sunshine Coaches to transport children to necessary services. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) and demonstrate a commitment to serving children aged 0-18. By removing barriers, the program ensures inclusivity and opportunity for every child in the community.

About Us

Texas Health and Human Services, also known as the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), helps more than 7.5 million Texans every month. The agency supports the needs of mothers, children and families through programs such as Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, women’s health and behavioral health services.

HHSC provides long-term services and supports for seniors and people with disabilities, and operates state supported living centers for residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities and state psychiatric hospitals. HHSC also regulates health care providers, professions and facilities to protect the health and safety of Texans.

Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) Transition and Financial Support Services

Executive Summary

The State of Texas, by and through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) on behalf of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) Child Protective Services (CPS) Program seeks Applicants to provide Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) Transition and Financial Support Services in an effective and efficient manner in DFPS Regions 1 to 5 and Regions 7 to 11 ( Refer Section 2.4, DFPS Regions) to DFPS Youth and Young Adults to help them successfully transition to adulthood.

The Holsworth Wildlife Research Endowment Grant, offered by the Ecological Society of Australia, supports Australian PhD students with research funding up to $22,500 for wildlife studies. The grant focuses on ecological interactions, conservation biology, and wildlife management. Eligible applicants include those conducting fieldwork on native species, with specific funding for communication of research outcomes. This grant encourages early-stage doctoral students to apply and emphasizes adherence to ethical research practices.

This funding opportunity aims to address health disparities in non-communicable and chronic diseases in Latin America. The initiative encourages collaborative research that evaluates public health policies and improves health outcomes among U.S. Hispanics/Latinos. Applications are welcomed from multi-disciplinary teams, with a requirement for collaboration with Latin American institutions. Key deadlines for submission are outlined, with a focus on innovative approaches to tackling critical health issues across the region.

The Bernice Ash Memorial Award honors the legacy of a retail music visionary by providing a $5,000 grant to mid-career professionals employed by NAMM member companies. This award aims to support emerging leaders in the music industry through professional development opportunities and a one-year mentorship with NAMM Young Professionals. Eligible applicants must have at least five years of experience and agree to use the funds for professional training, enhancing their leadership skills and career growth.

The CFGV Community Grants provide essential funding to nonprofit organizations in Gunnison County, supporting both General Operating and specific Project initiatives. Grants, capped at $7,000, aim to enhance community impact, with first-time applicants encouraged to consult staff prior to applying. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations can apply for funding that supports their operations, while collaborative projects are also welcomed, ensuring that community needs are effectively addressed through targeted financial support.

The Migrant Education Program - Continuation aims to provide educational support for eligible children of migratory farm workers and fishers in Essex County. This program ensures these children receive necessary services, such as identification, record transfers, and supplemental instruction. As a continuation grant, it serves Gloucester County Special Services and Essex County Educational Services Commission, with funding of $269,031 available for the period from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.

The SEFSC Bluefin Tuna Research Program aims to enhance science-based fisheries management for Atlantic bluefin tuna by improving knowledge of their fisheries, biology, and population dynamics. This initiative encourages collaborations with ICCAT and its partners to support multi-year research efforts focused on the movement and mixing of eastern and western Atlantic bluefin populations, ultimately contributing to better management practices for sustainable fisheries.

Alabama State Council on the Arts

The mission of the Alabama State Council on the Arts is: To enhance the quality of life and economic vitality for all Alabamians by providing support for the state’s diverse and rich artistic resources.

Agency Goals:

• Support excellence and professionalism in the arts.
• Provide opportunities for high-quality arts education for every Alabama student and lifelong learner.
• Provide opportunities for all Alabamians to experience the arts.
• Identify, preserve, and present folk art traditions.
• Promote diverse cultural artistic expressions.
• Recognize and support the arts as a driver of economic vitality.
• Increase public recognition and appreciation for the arts, arts organizations, and individual artists.

Projects

Project Grants are the most frequently applied for grant type, allowing a wide range of activities and events that result in positive arts experiences for the public. Project Grant proposals have included:

• Festivals.
• Performances.
• Research and field surveys.
• Exhibitions.
• Author readings.
• Juried competitions.
• Theatrical productions.
• Classes and workshops.
• The creation or commissioning of works of art.
• …And many other arts-oriented activities.

Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services

At the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), we are dedicated to our mission of serving Montanans in their communities to improve health, safety, well-being, and empower independence. As the largest executive branch agency in the state, our broad reach allows us to provide essential, community-based support where and when it matters most. Our DPHHS team is passionate about improving our clients’ lives and helping them build a more secure and independent future.

Funding Opportunities for Healthcare Professionals

Join us in a funded project and improve patient care, clinical outcomes, and staff knowledge. DPHHS has a wide variety of available grant opportunities for health improvement that fit any clinic or hospital work schedule. Interested in more than one? We can work with health systems to create an outline of activities to align grants and receive additional funding. 

Cardiovascular Funding Opportunities include: Access to Care; Community Health Worker (CHW) Social Need Project; and others.

Access to Care

Increase screening for health-related social needs and build partnerships to address health disparities. With a focus on patients who have diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.

The TMCity Foundation Grant supports innovative neurocognitive research and mental health initiatives, offering funding between $25,000 and $250,000. Organizations should be 501(c)(3) and focus on healthcare solutions for brain-related ailments. Applications are accepted via a rolling letter of inquiry, followed by a detailed application if interested. The Foundation prioritizes projects based in Southern California and Greater Boston, aiming to advance understanding of mental health through cutting-edge research and technologies.

The TMCity Foundation Grant supports innovative research in neurocognitive healthcare, with funding ranging from $25,000 to $250,000. This grant aims to address critical challenges in mental health by fostering cutting-edge research and transformative technologies. Applicants, preferably 501(c)(3) organizations, can submit letters of inquiry on a rolling basis, with a focus on projects based in Southern California and the Greater Boston area. The Foundation is committed to catalyzing advancements in understanding the brain and delivering effective treatments.

Samardzija-Gutesha Family Fund

The Field of Interest Fund reflects the Samardzija-Gutesha family’s values and commitment to giving back. It supports education and hands-on learning in farming, soil health, and water conservation, with a focus on FFA members and associate-level college students.

Scholarships benefit graduating seniors and second-year post-high school students who are originally from DeKalb County high schools with FFA programs.

The Samardzija-Gutesha Family Fund provides scholarships for post-high school students pursuing education in agriculture or conservation, as well as paid internships with local farmers, and conservation professionals. It also supports educational seminars on topics such as sustainable farming and agricultural business, and provides grants to local organizations that align with the donor’s values.

In its first year, the Fund awarded $65,000 in scholarships to eight graduating seniors from DeKalb, Genoa-Kingston, Indian Creek, Somonauk, and Sycamore high schools (pictured above). Each student attending a two-year college received a $5,000 scholarship, while students planning to attend a four-year university received $10,000.

The Greater Oxford Community Foundation Grants focus on enhancing the quality of life in the Greater Oxford area by awarding grants for diverse programs such as education, arts, and social services. They support tax-exempt public charities and prioritize proposals that promote community development. The Foundation emphasizes diversity, equality, and non-discrimination, ensuring that funding is accessible to a wide array of community projects while adhering to specific eligibility criteria.

The Klamath Community Foundation Grants aim to enhance the quality of life for the Klamath Basin community by awarding grants to local non-profit organizations. These grants support various areas including health services, education, community development, and the arts. By pooling resources from donors, the foundation minimizes administrative costs and maximizes funding for impactful projects. This initiative encourages community involvement and aims to address changing needs while preserving the unique character of the Klamath region.

About The Community Foundation

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is a community-based social impact investor whose mission is to engage, invest, and lead—working toward a vision of community vibrancy with opportunity for all. Our team of experienced staff and dedicated trustees is committed to boldly leading and supporting transformational community investments. We channel charitable contributions from donors through nonprofit partners that are meeting current community needs and steward community resources responsibly to ensure greater capacity for the future.

Helpful Harvest Grant Round

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties will host its Helpful Harvest Grant Round to help Herkimer and Oneida County nonprofits address food insecurity this holiday season. The Community Foundation is seeking applications from human service organizations whose primary operation is a food pantry, soup kitchen or shelter that provides pantry items or meals to residents.