Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The National Life Group Charitable Foundation offers sponsorships to support nonprofits, focusing on strong community connections. The application opens annually on January 1st and is reviewed on a rolling basis until funding is exhausted. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, but nonprofit status is not mandatory. The foundation prioritizes well-planned proposals that address community needs and demonstrate measurable success. With an annual budget of $2.8 million, sponsorships typically support one-time events, promoting the foundation's do-good message.

The Highmark BluePrints Small Grants program, managed by the Delaware Community Foundation, allocates funds to nonprofits addressing critical health-related issues in Delaware. Grants up to $50,000 support initiatives focused on enhancing health care access, reducing disparities, and fostering early childhood development. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) public charities and certain government agencies. The program emphasizes community equity and welcomes applications for innovative solutions that improve health outcomes for underserved populations.

Summary

Through this Request for Proposals (“RFP”), the Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center (“MassCEC”) is offering Students and Young Adults Equity Workforce Career Awareness and Training Grants. The Grants help provide direct funding and technical assistance support to organizations interested in career awareness and training programming focused on supporting students1 and young adults who are part of one or more of the following populations:

• Individuals from Environmental Justice (“EJ”) Neighborhoods or low-income communities;
• Members of federally recognized or state-acknowledged tribes;
• Members of underrepresented communities in the clean energy workforce; and
• Current or former workers from the fossil fuel industry (“Fossil Fuel Workers”).

Strand A: Clean Energy Career Awareness, Career Exploration, Career Navigation, and Preparedness

Strand B: Career Pathway Training with Work-based or Learning-based Opportunities

Strand C: Planning and Capacity Grants for Career Awareness or Career Pathways Training 

The United Way of Greater Waterbury provides funding through its Community Needs Fund to address the pressing needs of local communities. Their initiatives focus on education, financial stability, and basic needs, aiming to enhance learning opportunities for youth, connect individuals with economic resources, and ensure access to essential services like healthcare and food. This funding is available to 501c3 organizations serving the ten towns in the Greater Waterbury area, enhancing community resilience and support.

The Rooted Philanthropic Grant is dedicated to supporting the East Side of Saint Paul through responsive and innovative grantmaking. By focusing on entrepreneurship, education, and wellness, the foundation aims to empower local communities with financial and social resources. Grants are primarily by invitation and are tailored to meet the unique needs of the community, ensuring that organizations and individuals can thrive and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

Brooklyn Org is now accepting applications for microgrants to support community-based organizations with budgets under $100,000. These grants aim to empower groups working towards racial justice and provide vital resources to historically marginalized communities. Organizations can apply year-round for funding up to $10,000 for general operating support. This initiative reflects Brooklyn Org's commitment to fostering local philanthropy and strengthening the nonprofit sector in Brooklyn.

The Elisabeth Severance Prentiss Foundation Grant supports healthcare initiatives in the greater Cleveland area, focusing on medical research, public health promotion, and assistance to local hospitals. The foundation prioritizes grant requests from private sector organizations and favors projects with a duration of three years or less. It does not fund national campaigns, individual scholarships, or endowment contributions. Eligible projects must align with the foundation's commitment to enhancing health services for all, particularly low-income populations.

The CCWC Cultural Coalition Grant supports nonprofit arts, heritage, and humanities organizations in Washington County. Through the Community Cultural Participation Grant Program, it aims to promote public awareness, support diverse cultural activities, and increase access to arts education. Grants range from $1,000 to $3,000, encouraging projects that enhance community engagement and cultural tourism. This initiative fosters cultural diversity and partnerships, enriching the region's cultural landscape.

The PRO 2026-07 Water Safety Leading Grant aims to fund initiatives that enhance water safety for children and families in Hillsborough County. Approved by the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County, the grant focuses on collaborative service delivery addressing urgent community needs. Grantees will provide education, swimming lessons, and safety resources while meeting strategic outcomes. This grant prioritizes children aged 1 to 18 and their caregivers, ensuring a comprehensive approach to preventing drownings and promoting family support.

The NYS Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) supports low- and moderate-income communities through funding for various activities such as public facilities, economic development, and community planning. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and compliance with public participation requirements is essential. The program aims to enhance housing opportunities and economic growth in smaller municipalities, providing technical assistance to ensure effective use of funds for community development.

The TMF: Safe Communities Program, established by The Miami Foundation, aims to enhance safety and opportunities for all residents of Greater Miami. Focused on education, economic mobility, and health services, the program supports survivors of human trafficking and gun violence. It offers grants to nonprofits working in areas like crime prevention, survivor assistance, and youth development. With a commitment to community investment, the program collaborates with over 1,000 fundholders to ensure a safe, thriving environment for all.

The Jack and Judy Schiller Dyslexia Fund supports initiatives that promote dyslexia awareness and facilitates identification and remediation for children with dyslexia. Grants are exclusively awarded to non-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, focusing on projects that address dyslexia and reading disabilities in Ottawa County. This funding aims to enhance educational outcomes and provide necessary resources for affected students.

The East Hartford Commission on Culture and Fine Arts offers community grants for projects related to the fine arts and culture. Grants, ranging from $50 to $1500, support activities such as concerts, performances, festivals, and workshops. Eligible applicants must ensure their projects occur by June 30 of the following year and may serve surrounding towns. Co-sponsorship with Town departments requires prior approval. Ineligible expenses include capital improvements, debt reduction, and personal events.

ROOMS (Residential Opportunities on Main Street)

The goal of this grant program is to encourage renovation and improvements in the upper floors of commercial buildings in local Main Street districts consistent with proven Main Street practices, including those that retain unique historic elements and use materials that lower operating costs by conserving energy. The expected outcome of this program is to create new housing opportunities in downtown commercial districts; rehabilitate or preserve properties; and create a stronger tax base.

Main Street is a self-help, technical assistance program that targets revitalization and preservation of downtown districts through the development of a comprehensive strategy. 

The program has a long history of success throughout the United States and in Kansas. What started as a small pilot program in the late 1970s has now grown to include nearly 2,000 communities in more than 40 states. Throughout the country, communities have utilized the Main Street ApproachTM to rally residents around a focused plan of action that transforms their community and enhances their quality of life.

About ROOMS

Downtown housing enhances the overall livability and functionality of downtown, leads to increased investment, improved infrastructure, and a positive cycle of economic growth, and fosters a greater sense of place and community identity. A significant amount of unused upper-floor space is available throughout the state and this space could be available for loft-type housing. Many rural communities, however, lack the incentives to address this issue and many local property owners just don’t know where to begin with this type of development.

The goal of this grant program is to encourage renovation and improvements in the upper floors of commercial buildings in local Main Street districts consistent with proven Main Street practices, including those that retain unique historic elements and use materials that lower operating costs by conserving energy. The expected outcome of this program is to create new housing opportunities in downtown commercial districts; rehabilitate or preserve properties; and create a stronger tax base.

The Carolyn Jane Scott Charitable Trust, managed by Wells Fargo Bank, supports 501(c)(3) organizations primarily in New Jersey. It funds a variety of areas including education, health, and the arts, with grants typically ranging from $15,000 to $25,000. The Trust prioritizes requests that demonstrate community need and administrative stability, while excluding individuals and for-profit entities. Its mission embodies a commitment to charitable, scientific, literary, and educational purposes.

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) offers objective information and analysis, innovative programs, technical expertise, and support to help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, save money, use renewable energy, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. A public benefit corporation, NYSERDA has been advancing energy solutions and working to protect the environment since 1975.

Clean Energy Career Awareness Program: Teaching Resources & Educator Training

Description

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) requests proposals from firms that will help advance a Clean Energy Career Awareness Program to serve New York State (NYS) students, youths, and teachers. Proposal will be considered by contractors who wish to provide workforce development and training services for either or both of the following Pillars:

• Pillar 1 - Clean Energy Teaching Resources: A web-based platform that contains freely accessible clean energy educational resources responsive to the needs of NYS students and teachers.
• Pillar 2 - Clean Energy Educator Training: Professional development opportunities for NYS educators to advance their understanding of clean energy in NYS.

For Pillar 1, NYSERDA seeks proposer with experience and expertise in clean energy, curriculum curation, and web design. The proposer shall develop webpage(s) that contain freely accessible clean energy educational resources that are responsive to the needs of NYS students and teachers. The proposer shall maintain the webpage(s) regularly to ensure accuracy and timeliness of resources.

For Pillar 2, NYSERDA seeks proposer with experience and expertise in both clean energy and professional development for educators. The proposer shall develop and deliver professional development opportunities for at least 2,000 unique NYS educators to advance their understanding of clean energy in NYS and remove the barriers to understanding the benefits of clean energy. The proposer shall ensure 50+% of participating educators serve and/or are from NYS Disadvantaged Communities (DAC) and/or Priority District Schools.   

A total of $5,750,000 is available, with $750,000 designated for Pillar 1 and $5,000,000 designated for Pillar 2.

Violence Against Women Justice and Training Program - Texas

Purpose:

The purpose of this announcement is to solicit applications for projects that promote a coordinated, multi-disciplinary approach to improve the justice system’s response to violent crimes against women, including domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.

Available Funding:

Federal funding is authorized for these projects under the Violence Against Women Act of 2013 Pub. L. No. 113-4 (VAWA 2013). VAWA funds are made available through a Congressional appropriation to the U.S. Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women. All awards are subject to the availability of appropriated federal funds and any modifications or additional requirements that may be imposed by law.

Project Period:

Projects may not exceed 12 months and must start on 9/01/2026 and end on 08/31/2027.

Funding Levels

• Minimum: $5,000
• Maximum: No Maximum
• Match Requirement: 30% of the total project (Note: Victim service providers and Native American tribes are exempt from the match requirement.)

The Douglas Community Fund offers scholarships to graduates of Douglas County high schools, administered by the Office of Student Access and Completion (OSAC). Eligible students must be pursuing majors in fields such as biology, health occupations, medical technology, nursing, and public health. Applications are due by March 1, with an early-bird deadline of February 15 recommended for timely submission.

The Lena Benas Memorial Fund Grant, established in 1986, aims to support the health, human services, and housing needs of underserved individuals in Litchfield, Connecticut, and nearby communities. The fund prioritizes organizations that serve these populations, particularly in areas such as education, healthcare, and housing maintenance. Special consideration is given to established nonprofits that demonstrate a commitment to improving the lives of those in need, ensuring impactful community support.

Community Foundation of Osceola County

The Community Foundation of Osceola County is committed to improving the quality of life throughout Osceola County by investing in area nonprofits through our grant programs and by providing individuals, families and area businesses who love our communities with a way to give back.

The CFOC is affiliated with the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, a nonprofit, providing financial management, strategic development and educational services to communities, organizations and donors throughout Osceola County.

High Impact Grant

• Grants are available in the following areas: arts and culture, community and economic well-being, environment, health, human services, recreation, and technology.
• Only one high impact grant will be awarded annually to a project with a large positive community impact.
• Grantees have 2 years to complete the project. During this period the grantee is prohibited from applying for additional Community Foundation grant funding.
• Once the project has been completed the organization is eligible for further Community Foundation funding through community grants or high impact grants.
• Applicants are highly encouraged to meet with Osceola County Economic Development Director before applying to ensure applications are filled out correctly.
• The CFOC board looks for projects that address significant community issues; present innovative, creative, and practical proposals which build on community strengths; develop the leadership potential of the community; involve people served in the planning and implementation of the program; provide a plan for sustainability beyond the funding period; capital projects that impact a significant number of Osceola County residents

The San Antonio Area Foundation's Annual Responsive Grants - Cycle 1 focuses on enhancing cultural vibrancy and youth success through multi-year funding. This initiative aims to empower nonprofits by providing essential operating support, advancing equity in the community, and fostering innovative collaborations. By prioritizing organizations that serve underrepresented communities, the foundation seeks to close opportunity gaps and ensure access to arts, education, and leadership development for all youth. The program embodies a commitment to trust-based philanthropy.

The UACF Operating Support Grants offered by United Arts of Central Florida provide essential funding to nonprofit cultural organizations that have been operational for at least three years. These grants aim to enhance the diversity of cultural experiences available to the Central Florida community, recognizing the importance of arts and culture. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and meet specific criteria, including a commitment to public programming and equal opportunity in employment.

SECU Foundation Grant

Purpose

The SECU Foundation promotes local and community development by primarily funding high impact projects in the areas of housing, education, healthcare and human services. The State Employees’ Credit Union Board of Directors chartered the SECU Foundation to help identify and address community issues that are beyond the normal scope of State Employees’ Credit Union. While individual members may not have a large impact, collectively and cooperatively the Foundation can go a long way toward helping solve problems in our neighborhoods, schools and our community at large.

Programmatic Grants

Programmatic grants fund pilot programs or large-scale expansions that deliver regional or statewide services. Eligible projects must:

• Have an established proof of concept or evidence-based model
• Include clear objectives, a detailed implementation strategy, and a plan for sustainability and evaluation
• Demonstrate regional reach, with preference given to statewide impact
• Have a total grant request that does not exceed 30% of the total project budget

Grants are limited by SECU Foundation funding. We do not place minimum or maximum restrictions on the amount that may be requested in a grant proposal.

The Anna Paulina Foundation, established in 1961, is dedicated to supporting public charities in Michigan, particularly in the Flint area. With a focus on the arts, youth leadership, urban beautification, and human services, the Foundation aims to make a positive impact on the community. Grants range from $100,000 to $300,000, with larger awards available in special cases, ensuring support for specific programs and projects.

The Canadian Farm to School Grant, supported by Farm to Cafeteria Canada and the Whole Kids Foundation, provides funding up to $10,000 for schools across Canada to enhance local food initiatives. Schools from kindergarten to grade 12 are encouraged to engage students and communities in growing, cooking, and serving healthy local foods. This initiative promotes food literacy and sustainable practices, aiming to increase student access to nutritious meals while fostering community connections.

The Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant in Maryland supports vital criminal justice initiatives aimed at enhancing community safety. It provides essential funding to address gaps in services related to violent crime, victim assistance, law enforcement, and rehabilitation. Managed by the Governor's Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services, this grant encourages public input on its draft application, fostering community involvement in shaping effective crime prevention strategies.

The Harvey R. and Doris Klockow Foundation, established in 1978, aims to benefit the South Bend community and St. Joseph County in Indiana. It supports organizations that are exempt under Section 501(c)(3) and prioritizes projects promoting public welfare, education, and the arts. Notable preferences include initiatives that enhance community engagement and requests from St. Paul's Memorial United Methodist Church. This foundation honors the legacy of its founders, Doris and Harvey Klockow.