Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Children's Services Fund of Clay County provides grants to organizations serving children under 19 in Clay County, Missouri. Funded by a voter-approved sales tax, it supports various services like counseling, crisis intervention, and mental health screenings. Organizations are encouraged to apply for one-time grants to enhance or start programs that benefit children's well-being. However, the fund does not support inpatient services, transportation, individual grants, capital expenditures, annual appeals, or endowments.

The Deb Duethorn Memorial Scholarship Fund honors the legacy of Deb Duethorn, a dedicated flight nurse and educator, by providing financial support for students pursuing careers in nursing, emergency medical services, law enforcement, or firefighting. Established after her passing in 1996, this scholarship aims to make education more accessible, reflecting the Central New York Community Foundation's commitment to equity and opportunity. Only one scholarship is awarded, making it a significant opportunity for eligible applicants.

The DOE Computational Science Graduate Fellowship (CSGF) supports U.S. citizens and permanent residents pursuing Ph.D. degrees in computational sciences. Established in 1991, it provides a $45,000 annual stipend, full tuition, and a $1,000 professional development allowance over a maximum of four years. The program encourages interdisciplinary research, offering fellows practical experience in DOE laboratories, enhancing their careers in high-performance computing and scientific research across various fields.

The BIE Professional Development Funding for STEM Educators and Students, offered by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, supports training opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) for TCU faculty, staff, and students. This funding assists with costs related to professional development including continuing education, conferences, and certifications. Eligible applicants include educators at BIE-funded or controlled schools, as well as those at institutions with significant Native American populations, fostering increased representation and support for Native scholars.

Our Mission

Empower donors to fulfill their passions and dreams by establishing charitable vehicles designed to create a positive and enduring impact on Jewish Buffalo, Western New York and the World.

Israel Scholarships

For more than 30 years the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies has provided financial assistance for high school and college students to travel and study in Israel. Students participating in approved programs will be eligible for assistance for the upcoming summer based upon merit and/or financial need.

Awards are limited to Jewish students who have attended high school in either Erie or Niagara County in New York State or to Jewish students who are residing in either Erie or Niagara County and are new Americans.

The goals of the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies Israel Experience scholarship program are to develop:

• Increased Jewish identity
• Greater commitment to Israel and the Buffalo Jewish community
• Leadership in the Buffalo Jewish community

Participants may apply for funding for a program they have found that fulfills one or more of the following criteria:

• Is organized by a camp recognized by the One Happy Camper Program
• Is organized by a National Jewish Youth Movement (NFTY, USY, NCSY, BBYO, Young Judea, Bnei Akiva)
• Is approved by Masa Israel Journey

We will review other programs on a case by case basis.

There are two types of the Israel Scholarships: 1) Community Support Scholarships; and 2) Financial Need Based Scholarships

Financial Need Based Scholarships

Please see information under Eligibility.

Income guidelines

• Please keep in mind that our funds are limited, and requests generally exceed demand
• We work hard to make sure that the neediest families are given priority
• We take into account the family’s total financial picture, not just income

To complete your financial need based application, you will need to include:

• Pages 1 & 2 of your most recent Federal Income Tax Return Form 1040 or Pages 1-3 of Form 1040-SR for parents/guardians listed
• Verification of program costs from sponsoring organization (invoice or letter from organization).

IMPORTANT: If the above items are not included, your application will not be considered complete.

The Healthy Tree Canopy Grants for Cities program aims to enhance tree canopies and foster community engagement in tree protection. This initiative offers funding between $10,000 and $50,000 for eligible cities that have completed a tree inventory. It addresses threats to trees from invasive species and promotes public education on tree care while encouraging diversity in the urban forest. A 25% match of total project costs is required, ensuring community investment in local environmental health.

The Richard S. Shineman Foundation Strategic Grants focus on enhancing community well-being in Oswego County. Established in honor of Dr. Richard S. Shineman, the foundation supports projects in various areas, including arts, civic benefit, education, and health services. Organizations classified as tax-exempt under 501(c)(3) are encouraged to apply for grants exceeding $10,000, which are reviewed biannually in May and November. A Letter of Inquiry is required for consideration.

The Richard S. Shineman Foundation Community Enrichment Grants support organizations in Oswego County that enhance community well-being. Focused on arts, education, civic improvement, and health services, these grants empower projects that address local needs. With a funding limit of $2,499 and quarterly review cycles, the foundation aims to foster sustainable development and improve the quality of life in the region. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt organizations or have a fiscal sponsor.

The Richard S. Shineman Foundation Community Impact Grants support projects enhancing life quality in Oswego County. Grants range from $2,500 to $10,000, focusing on various areas including arts, civic improvement, education, and health services. Organizations must be tax-exempt and demonstrate a direct benefit to the community. Applications are reviewed quarterly, providing vital funding to nonprofits aiming for impactful community development.

The RiverSmart Homes Rain Barrel Installation and Rebate Program, administered by the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), aims to reduce stormwater runoff and enhance water conservation in Washington, D.C. This grant invites eligible nonprofit organizations, faith-based entities, and educational institutions to apply for funding to install rain barrels, recycle them, and issue rebates. The program seeks to improve public understanding of stormwater management and its impact on local waterways.

The Benton Telecommunications Foundation offers small grants under $2,000 to support initiatives in healthy living, basic human needs, educational development, and community improvement. The foundation emphasizes values, ethics, and character formation, aiming to make a positive impact on communities, particularly in Benton County, Minnesota. Applications are reviewed monthly, focusing on the potential benefits of proposed activities and the financial need of individuals affected by disasters.

The Tree Equity RI Grant Program offers funding of up to $25,000 for tree planting projects in Rhode Island, focusing on communities disproportionately affected by environmental hazards. Funded by the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, the program encourages local governments, educational institutions, and non-profits to enhance urban greenery. A total of $120,000 is available, requiring a 75/25 match of non-federal funds. This initiative aims to improve tree equity and mitigate extreme heat impacts.

The K12 Strong Workforce Program Grant, initiated by California's legislature in 2018, aims to enhance career technical education (CTE) for K-12 local education agencies (LEAs). It fosters collaborations between K-12 schools and community colleges to create effective CTE pathways, ensuring students gain essential skills for successful transitions into higher education and the workforce. The initiative allocates $150 million annually to support innovative CTE programs, driving regional workforce development and addressing labor market demands.

The Dr. Carol J. Chrisman Nursing Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports registered nurses and nursing students from Ashland County pursuing advanced degrees at Ashland University. This scholarship honors Dr. Chrisman's legacy in nursing and community health, encouraging local nurses to further their education. Eligible applicants include full-time nursing students and those employed in public health within the area, with prior recipients allowed to reapply once.

The Ag Health and Safety Grants, awarded by CHS and the CHS Foundation, aim to enhance agricultural safety and foster community well-being. These grants focus on educating youth and farmers about agricultural hazards, providing training for rural professionals, and developing essential safety guidelines. With a commitment to improving safety standards, the program has benefitted over 32,000 youth and supported more than 450 communities through safety initiatives and equipment, ensuring a safer future for all involved in agriculture.

About

What is the Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan and Rockland?

The Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan and Rockland is a tax exempt, non-profit, publicly supported, philanthropic institution with the long-term goal of building permanent, named funds for the broad based charitable benefit of the individuals and families in the region. Funds are established through contributions from individuals, families, businesses or 501(c)3 organizations, each one with its own specific purpose. The Foundation’s Board of Directors oversees these funds in perpetuity, to ensure that donor’s intentions are honored, now and forever.

The Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan received accreditation with the nation’s highest standard for philanthropic excellence in 2014. National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations™ establish legal, ethical, effective practices for community foundations. The rigorous accreditation process provides quality assurance to donors and to their legal and financial advisors.

Boss Women UNITED Grant Program

Boss Women UNITED’s mission is to foster the success and advancement of women in the financial services industry by supporting continuing education and professional development opportunities.

Through this program, grants of up to $500 are available to help offset costs associated with certifications, licensing, trainings, and career development opportunities for women working within the financial services industry, including across all broker-dealers (BDs).

The Big Bald Dave Adventure Scholarship, provided by the Yellowstone Club Community Foundation, honors Dave Mueller's passion for outdoor adventure. It offers a unique summer trip for Big Sky students in grades 9-11 who demonstrate leadership and a love for the outdoors. Supported by Adventures Cross Country, this scholarship is a wonderful opportunity for students to engage in enriching experiences while giving back to the community. Notably, it is not based on financial need.

The Carl Marshall and Mildred Almen Reeves Foundation, established in 1997, supports local organized charities in Columbus, Indiana. Grants are aimed at nonprofit organizations focused on education, history, and the arts. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, with an emphasis on projects rather than operational costs. The foundation seeks to enhance community engagement by requiring matching funds from other sources. This commitment honors the philanthropic legacy of Mrs. Mildred Reeves, who deeply valued local community support.

The Andrew F. Evans Memorial Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports full-time seniors in the School of Film and Photography pursuing the Film Option or Integrated Lens-Based Media program. Applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA overall and a 3.25 GPA in their major, demonstrating strong commitment to a career in cinematography. This scholarship aligns with MSU's mission to foster innovation and prepare graduates for impactful careers in the arts.

The VCA Operating Support Small grant aims to support small arts organizations in Virginia with annual cash income between $5,000 and $150,000. This funding helps enhance their artistic and operational excellence while fostering community engagement. Eligible applicants must meet specific criteria, including being exempt from federal income tax and having completed two years of programming. The grant focuses on providing operating funds to sustain and expand arts experiences that benefit Virginians.

Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy Proposition 68 Grant Program

The Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy is pleased to assist non-profit organizations, local public agencies, and tribes by providing grant funding for projects that preserve open space and habitat, increase public access to it, and help create healthy and climate resilient communities.

Funding for Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy grant programs is periodically authorized by the California State Legislature. During the pre-application consultation, Conservancy staff will discuss current opportunities. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

The NEA Federal Rescue Implementation Network Grant provides up to $100,000 per year for two years to state affiliates for hiring a coordinator to implement the American Rescue Plan in support of public education. This funding is specifically for backfilling a position that must remain filled for at least ninety days, ensuring effective oversight of federal recovery initiatives within the affiliate.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

Connors, Helen L Memorial Scholarship

This fund was established in memory of Jim and Helen Connors by their family to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors attending public and private schools in St Joseph, MO or Mid-Buchanan High School, majoring in nursing, music, law enforcement or theatre. Jim had many occupations throughout his life including actor, weatherman for KQ2, wresting announcer, but most notably retiring from the St Joseph Police Department as Commander after 33 years. Helen was a CRNA for 40 years and a lifelong musician. She specialized in piano and voice but also played the trombone.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in August.

The Juliette Low’s Amazing Girls Scholarship, established in 2011 by the East Texas Communities Foundation, is aimed at female graduating seniors from Smith County who have been active in Girl Scouts. This scholarship supports educational pursuits for students attending any college in the U.S. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and have a minimum GPA of 3.00. The award amount is $1,000, and preference is given to recipients of the Girl Scout Gold Award. Reapplication is encouraged.

The Pasadena Community Foundation offers Animal Welfare Grants on even years to support nonprofits focused on wildlife welfare and habitat conservation in the greater Pasadena area. Grants range from $5,000 to $15,000 for organizations that create conservation corridors, protect species, and enhance biodiversity. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt and serve areas defined by the Pasadena Unified School District. This initiative aims to foster a compassionate community for all animals through impactful projects.

The Governor's Workforce Board

The Governor's Workforce Board (GWB) is the primary policy-making body on workforce development matters for the State of Rhode Island and has statutory responsibility and authority to plan, coordinate, fund, and evaluate education, employment, and training programs that increase the skills of the RI workers and address the workforce needs of RI businesses. The Board is housed at the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training.

Real Skills for Youth

The goal of Real Skills for Youth is to prepare youth for success in college and/or career through meaningful career exposure and exploration of potential career paths and their on-ramps, skill-building with an emphasis on essential and professional skills and supported work-based learning experiences that allow participants to apply learning in a real-world setting. 

Real Skills for Youth programs often provide youth with initial exposure to the world of work, whether through a paid work experience, hands-on exposure to new careers, and practicing essential skills.

In FY26, the GWB allocated $2.8 million to the program to support partnerships consisting of schools, youth-serving organizations, employers, and others to develop and implement high-quality work-based learning and career exploration activities. This program is part of Rhode Island’s larger effort called Prepare RI.

Real Skills for Youth Partners and Programs: Young Voices

What To Expect

• Paid Internship: Youth will work in teams on a hands-on, industry-connected capstone project. Through this experience, they will build real-world skills like problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and basic technical skills that prepare them for college, training programs, and future careers.
• Skill Building: Through hands-on career experiences, students will build important workplace skills such as communication, teamwork, resume and cover letter writing, and professional behavior. This program helps students gain confidence, build strong professional relationships, and develop the skills they need to succeed in the world of work.
• Mentorship: Each career track will have one or two mentors who check in with students at least once a week during scheduled team time to support progress and growth.

Career Pathways to Choose From

• Industrial Engineering
• Banking & Finance
• Biological and Environmental Science
• Pharmacy
• Public Health, and Pre-Engineering

Students enrolled in the Making Money Moves industry track will have the opportunity to earn 0.5 high school credits through the All-Course Network (ACN).

Communities Served: Providence, Pawtucket, Central Falls, Cranston, Warwick

The Governor's Workforce Board

The Governor's Workforce Board (GWB) is the primary policy-making body on workforce development matters for the State of Rhode Island and has statutory responsibility and authority to plan, coordinate, fund, and evaluate education, employment, and training programs that increase the skills of the RI workers and address the workforce needs of RI businesses. The Board is housed at the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training.

Real Skills for Youth

The goal of Real Skills for Youth is to prepare youth for success in college and/or career through meaningful career exposure and exploration of potential career paths and their on-ramps, skill-building with an emphasis on essential and professional skills and supported work-based learning experiences that allow participants to apply learning in a real-world setting. 

Real Skills for Youth programs often provide youth with initial exposure to the world of work, whether through a paid work experience, hands-on exposure to new careers, and practicing essential skills.

In FY26, the GWB allocated $2.8 million to the program to support partnerships consisting of schools, youth-serving organizations, employers, and others to develop and implement high-quality work-based learning and career exploration activities. This program is part of Rhode Island’s larger effort called Prepare RI.

Real Skills for Youth Partners and Programs: Youthbuild Preparatory Academy

What To Expect

• Career Exploration: Youthbuild Prep Academy will host a 60-hour, 10-week after-school program for a cohort of 20 students focused on building career readiness and technical awareness. Complete career assessments, participate in essential skills workshops 
• Skill Building: Youth will team up to complete a hands-on capstone project connected to real careers. Along the way, they’ll practice working together, solving problems, communicating their ideas, and building technical skills they can use after high school.
• Mentorship: Throughout the program, students will get support and guidance from facilitators and industry partners who will help them explore what they’re interested in, learn about real careers, and feel more confident planning their next steps.

Career Pathways to Choose From

• Technology
• Healthcare
• Skilled Trades

Communities Served: Providence