Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

Expanding Access to Middle-Wage Occupations

Request for Proposals

The New York City Workforce Funders Collaborative invites proposals for system and pathway models and policy and advocacy efforts that expand access to middle-wage occupations and upskilling opportunities for low-income New Yorkers. Proposals may be submitted by a single organization or a coalition of organizations working together with one organization as the lead.

 The New York City Workforce Funders Collaborative will award grants of up to $500,000 for projects that build the capacity of a New York City workforce development system to connect low-income New Yorkers to a middle-wage occupation or a group of occupations. The City’s workforce development systems include its public workforce agencies; the field of nonprofit organizations; the City University of New York (CUNY) system; the field of labor unions; industry partnership hubs; and New York City Public Schools.

Competitive submissions will:

• Strengthen or expand training pathways to middle-wage occupations;
• Strengthen or expand advancement models that help workers secure middle-wage positions; and/or
•  Address structural barriers to effective middle-wage pathways for low-income New Yorkers.

The Gender-Specific Services Grant, offered by the New Jersey Department of Law & Public Safety, aims to support programs that address the unique challenges faced by girls and gender-expansive youth. This initiative fosters safe, inclusive environments where participants can heal from trauma and build confidence. By promoting trust, creativity, and leadership, the grant seeks to empower young people to connect with role models, express their identities, and envision a brighter future.

Expanding Access to Middle-Wage Occupations

Request for Proposals

The New York City Workforce Funders Collaborative invites proposals for system and pathway models and policy and advocacy efforts that expand access to middle-wage occupations and upskilling opportunities for low-income New Yorkers. Proposals may be submitted by a single organization or a coalition of organizations working together with one organization as the lead.

The collaborative will award grants of up to $200,000 for policy and advocacy efforts that:

• Increase the share of New York City’s middle-wage occupations;
• Expand access to middle-wage occupations for low-income New Yorkers, with a focus on reducing structural barriers to entry and advancement (including advocacy to increase public investments in pathways to middle-wage occupations);
• Develop and/or advance public policy solutions to support reskilling and upskilling for workers who have experienced labor market disruption; and/or 
• Implement concrete reforms to NYC’s workforce development systems that facilitate new or improved solutions to move more New Yorkers into middle-wage occupations.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Illinois

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

The Fund for Lake Michigan Grant supports initiatives aimed at enhancing the health of Lake Michigan through projects that yield both immediate and long-term benefits. Eligible applicants include non-profits, government agencies, and educational institutions focusing on water quality improvement. Grants range from $700,000 to $900,000 quarterly, with priorities on projects that directly impact water quality and promote sustainable practices. This grant fosters economic growth while ensuring the preservation of vital water resources.

New Mexico Community Foundation

For over 40 years, New Mexico Foundation (NMF) has worked to improve the quality of life for all residents of New Mexico. The only statewide foundation, NMF was started in 1983 by a small group of dedicated and visionary volunteers who believed in the power of Philanthropy as a tool for inspiring creative, community-based change and prosperity.

NMF has distinguished itself as a leader in philanthropy. Our progressive, grassroots approach to building stronger communities empowers community members to collaborate on critical issues by tapping into local resources and discovering the strength in themselves.

In 2019 we changed our name to better define our purpose and identity as the only community foundation serving the state of New Mexico.

Native American Preparatory Scholars Fund

The Native American Preparatory Scholars (NAPS) Fund was established in 2012 from the remaining assets of the former Native American Preparatory School located in Rowe, NM. The purpose of the fund is to support programs that increase the number of New Mexico Native American students who shall aspire to, be prepared for, and graduate from colleges and universities.

To accomplish this mission, New Mexico Community Foundation is pleased to announce a funding opportunity through our NAPS Fund.

Grant Focus Areas

• Programs that assist Native students with college acceptance.
• Programs whose goal is to increase college matriculation of Native students.
• Programs that support Native students for career readiness.

The Workforce and Economic Development Network of Pennsylvania (WEDnetPA) Grant offers funding for training programs aimed at enhancing the skills of new and existing employees. This initiative is a collaboration between community colleges and educational institutions, designed to address the workforce needs of Pennsylvania's business sector. Applications are accepted year-round, with quarterly approvals, ensuring ongoing support for workforce development.

The RRGL Emergency Grant provides crucial funding for urgent projects in Montana that threaten the management of renewable resources. With a budget of $300,000, grants up to $30,000 are available for projects that cannot wait for legislative approval. Eligible entities include state and local governments, while funds can cover various water-related emergencies. This program supports conservation efforts and ensures the sustainable use of water resources, promoting the economic and social well-being of Montana's citizens.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Robert Rainsberger Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

The 21st Century Museum Professionals (21MP) Program, funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, aims to enhance career pathways and professional networks in the museum sector. This initiative focuses on developing current museum staff, recruiting new professionals, and fostering partnerships that promote effective workforce training. By emphasizing peer learning and alternative career pathways, the program seeks to create a robust and diverse museum workforce across the nation.

The AK Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) enhances existing conservation efforts for agricultural and forest land. With over 70 million acres enrolled, it provides tailored plans to improve productivity, increase crop yields, and develop wildlife habitats. CSP offers annual payments for implementing conservation activities, ensuring land is managed sustainably. New initiatives, such as the Grasslands Conservation Initiative, focus on protecting grazing land and conserving natural resources. CSP contracts last five years, with potential for renewal based on successful completion.

The John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood assists youth who have experienced foster care at age 14 or older achieve self-sufficiency. Grants are offered to States and Tribes who submit a plan to assist youth in a wide variety of areas designed to support a successful transition to adulthood. Activities and programs include, but are not limited to, help with education, employment, financial management, housing, emotional support and assured connections to caring adults for older youth in foster care.

The Anne and Tony Hillerman Scholarship, part of the New Mexico Press Women Scholarship Fund, supports New Mexico students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in journalism or communications. Established in 2023, the fund promotes ethical journalism and offers networking opportunities through the NMPW Annual Conference. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a relevant program, provide a portfolio of work, and submit a personal essay detailing their interests and career goals. This scholarship fosters the next generation of communicators and advocates for First Amendment rights.

The IPCF's Mirza/Arts & Culture Grants support programs focused on art, music, and theatre education, as well as performing and visual arts. Open to tax-exempt organizations, these grants encourage innovative projects benefiting residents of McLean, DeWitt, Livingston, and Logan counties. Applicants may request funding between $600 and $5,000, with a minimum request of $500. The grants emphasize ongoing self-sufficiency and measurable outcomes, fostering community enrichment through diverse artistic initiatives.

American Brain Foundation

The American Brain Foundation funds research across the spectrum of the brain and nervous system, because it is our best hope for improving treatments, advancing prevention strategies, and discovering cures. Brain diseases, disorders, and injuries are interconnected. When we cure one, we will cure many.

Next Generation Research Grants

The American Brain Foundation’s Next Generation Research Grants (NGRGs) support early career investigators conducting high-quality research aimed at better understanding, treating, and curing brain diseases. These grants are offered in collaboration with disease-focused partner organizations and reflect ABF’s Cure One, Cure Many research philosophy: the belief that breakthroughs in one area of research accelerate progress across many others.

Lawrence M. Brass, MD Clinical Research Training Scholarship in Stroke

This award aims to recognize the importance of good clinical research and to encourage early career investigators in clinical studies related to stroke, vascular neurology, and neurocritical care.

For the purpose of this scholarship, research is defined as “patient-oriented research conducted with human participants, or translational research specifically designed to develop treatments or enhance diagnosis of neurological disease. These areas of research include epidemiologic or behavioral studies, clinical trials, studies of disease mechanisms, the development of new technologies, and health services and outcomes research.” Disease-related studies not directly involving humans or human tissue are also encouraged if the primary goal is the development of therapies, diagnostic tests, or other tools to prevent or mitigate neurological diseases.

The Royal Forestry Society's Viking Bursary, established through a bequest from Mrs. Sheila Jorgensen, supports students in higher education studying forestry. With awards up to £2,000, the bursary promotes research that enhances woodland management and resilience. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in relevant courses, focusing on original, independent study. Priority is given to projects within the UK, particularly in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, facilitating travel, accommodation, and equipment costs.

The Implementing Zero Suicide in Health Systems program aims to enhance suicide prevention efforts for adults within health systems. Funded by the US HHS's Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), this initiative employs a comprehensive approach that incorporates all seven elements of the Zero Suicide framework: Lead, Train, Identify, Engage, Treat, Transition, and Improve. This program seeks to create safer health environments and reduce suicide rates effectively.

The FY2026 Cooperative Agreement for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Administrator aims to enhance and manage the 988 Lifeline, connecting individuals in crisis through various communication methods to a network of certified crisis centers. This initiative seeks to link people with vital emergency, behavioral health, and social services, providing essential support to those in need. The program is funded by the US HHS's Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), emphasizing mental health resources and accessibility.

The Northern New York Community Foundation offers grants to support diverse programs addressing regional needs, including human services, health, arts, education, and environmental conservation. Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties can apply. The Foundation evaluates proposals quarterly, with requests of $5,000 or less potentially approved at the committee level, while larger requests require Board review. Applicants will receive notification of award decisions after Board meetings.

The Skutch Research Grants provide funding for researchers based in Latin America, replacing the previous Bergstrom Grant. This initiative, supported by Dr. Alexander Skutch's bequest, aims to promote research on Neotropical ornithology. Annually, up to five grants of $1500 USD each are awarded for projects that enhance knowledge of birds' natural history, ecology, and conservation across Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.

Native Forward awards are allocated based on the financial aid information provided by the institution’s Financial Aid Office. Awards can vary, ranging from $100 to $30,000 per academic year.

Native Forward Scholars Fund members of federally and state-recognized Tribes as well as first and second-generation descendants. However, Native Forward Scholars Fund scholarship opportunities have different Tribal eligibility requirements and can be determined by submitting a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

Land Conservation and Indigenous Languages Scholarship

The purpose of the Land Conservation and Indigenous Languages Scholarship is to provide financial assistance to eligible American Indian and Alaska Native undergraduate and graduate students enrolled full-time at an accredited institution and pursuing degrees with a focus in Indigenous languages, natural resources, land management, and conservation or cultural preservation. 

This opportunity is a need-based award.

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

The mission of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is to create equitable economic opportunities across the State of Illinois. By attracting and supporting major job creators, investing in communities, strengthening Illinois’ world-class workforce, fostering innovation, and ushering in the new clean energy economy, DCEO works to fortify Illinois’ reputation as a global economic powerhouse while ensuring Illinois is the best state to live, work and do business.

State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Technical Assistance (TA) Grant Program – Loan TA Program – Region 4: North 

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (the “Department” or “DCEO”) is issuing this Notice of Funding Opportunity (“NOFO”) to seek application proposals from qualified technical assistance providers to deliver assistance to businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals (SEDI1) or very small businesses (VSBs2) participating in, or seeking assistance from the state’s State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) funded programs. The technical assistance providers will provide support to eligible beneficiaries of the SSBCI Technical (TA) Grant Program located in Region 4: North. Specifically, the Illinois SSBCI Technical Assistance Grant Program will be delivered via two programs: the Venture Capital TA Program and the Loan TA Program.

The primary focus of this NOFO is the Loan TA Program which will assist eligible small businesses in applying for SSBCI funding and other government small business programs. The Loan TA Program will prioritize services that promote equitable economic opportunities for participating businesses across the state by enhancing their awareness and readiness to apply for and acquire capital, in addition to fostering entrepreneurial growth, and enhancing financial and business management skills.

The Venture Capital TA Program will be offered via a separate NOFO.

The National Trappers Foundation (NTF) offers grants to individuals and organizations for projects related to furbearers. Founded in 1988, NTF supports educational and conservation initiatives that promote the management and restoration of furbearers and natural resources. Grants are available for research, habitat development, and educational programs. Contributions to NTF are tax-deductible, reflecting its commitment to conservation and community engagement.

This project aims to enhance health outcomes for women living with HIV in the South by integrating HIV care with comprehensive women's health services through coordinated Clinic and Community Collaboratives. By funding organizations to implement targeted strategies such as culturally responsive services and learning collaboratives, the initiative seeks to improve access to essential health services, increase the number of women initiating rapid ART, and foster sustainable healthcare models that address the unique needs of this population.

The William Penn Foundation's RFP aims to increase the percentage of certified teachers in Philadelphia public schools, addressing the critical shortage of diverse educators. With a focus on pre-k-4 teachers, the initiative promotes effective pathways for pre-service and in-service teachers, including recruitment, improved preparation programs, and support for current teachers. This effort is essential to align the racial and ethnic makeup of educators with the diverse student population, fostering better educational outcomes in the community.

Welcome Home Community Housing Fund 

This opportunity will be available only to developments already awarded CHF or HOME funds, with the goal of reducing planned 60% AMI units to 50% AMI units or below.

Clark County is making a BLM-owned site available for the development of affordable rental housing. 

Funding Goals and Scope

The goal of this funding round is to reduce the projected number of 60% AMI units (and 65% AMI units in limited instances) in the development pipeline to 50% AMI, and below, to meet the very low- and extremely low-income housing demands of the Las Vegas valley housing market. The COUNTY will determine eligibility for funding by population served and targeted income level(s), number of units impacted, financial capacity, the APPLICANTS ability to creatively maximize use of the additional CHF funds in combination with other funding sources, project readiness, and project feasibility. All project commitments outlined in the original application must remain, such as sustainability features, project amenities, unit amenities, overall design of the project, etc. All developments will be for affordable housing for households below 80% of AMI; any units above 80% will not be funded by CHF. Projects with market rate units will be required to show how those units will be funded on the FFS without using CHF funds. Though the COUNTY will provide a scoring preference for projects with higher numbers of units at or below 30% and 50% of AMI, the maximum amount of below 30% AMI, units allowed in any one project is 50% of the total. Projects that include between 10% and 50% of their units at 30% AMI or below may request additional CHF funds in order to reduce long-term debt and support higher operating costs; however, construction costs per unit must remain competitive. Projects with over 20% of the units at 30% AMI must have additional sources of long-term operating income to ensure that the project can sustain such deep rental subsidies. 

The Undergraduate & Graduate Grant Program, supported by the Anacortes Salmon Derby, aims to fund research focused on recreationally important fish species in the Pacific Northwest. This initiative prioritizes applicants studying Fisheries Biology or Management, encouraging the conservation of salmon and other marine species. Scholarships and grants are available for undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate a commitment to ecological research and sustainable fisheries management, ensuring the protection of vital aquatic resources for future generations.