Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Alletta Morris McBean Charitable Trust Grant focuses on supporting organizations that enhance the quality of life and preserve the history of Newport and Aquidneck Island, Rhode Island. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations actively serving these communities. The Trust prioritizes projects that make a significant impact in these areas, reflecting its commitment to local charitable activities.

Homeless response system (Super) Grant

The County of Hennepin, State of Minnesota (“County”) is soliciting proposals for prevention and supportive housing for youth (age 16 to 24), and crisis response services for both youth and adult populations. Services are solicited on behalf of the County’s Office of Housing Stability.  

Historically, the County solicited separate proposals for different funding sources as the funding became available, which sometimes resulted in multiple proposal submissions per organization at different times. This RFP is focused service alignment via one proposal submission process, resulting in contract terms that also cycle consistently.   

This RFP has multiple funding sources, including state, federal, County property tax, County and city of Minneapolis Local Affordable Housing Aid, and the City of Minneapolis Emergency Solutions Grant. The total maximum funding assigned to this RFP is $37 million.  Proposal submissions that include other funding sources to support proposed services may be prioritized. The County anticipates awarding multiple contracts, each for a three-year duration commencing on January 1, 2027.

The total maximum funding assigned to this RFP is $37 million. A maximum of $3 million of this total will fund youth prevention, youth supportive housing, and crisis response services provided to youth and young adults age 16 to 24. The remaining will fund crisis services provided to adults aged 18 and older. (The County issued an RFP for family shelter operations during January 2026.) Proposals that include other funding sources to support proposed services may be prioritized.

BAE Systems offers community investment grants aimed at enhancing the well-being of military families and supporting future workforce development in STEM fields. As a U.S. subsidiary of a global defense and aerospace leader, they require applicants to be recognized 501(c) organizations. The initiative underscores a commitment to charitable partnerships that uplift local communities and contribute positively to society.

The mission of The Modesto Rotary Club Foundation (MRCF) is to support local organizations and projects through charitable contributions. 

Grants

The Modesto Rotary Club Foundation’s aim is to help organizations stretch and have bigger impact in Modesto.

The Modesto Rotary Club Foundation will support game-changing work across all program areas, and we especially encourage initiatives that support:

• Health and wellness
• Youth enrichment
• Community beautification
• Assist vulnerable families

Successful applications will demonstrate community need, and yield tangible and measurable results. Funds are available for program development/expansion, innovation, technology and equipment. 

Award amounts will be based on:

• Proposed project budget
• Scope of project
• Capacity of organization to successfully execute the project

Cures Within Reach

Cures Within Reach is the philanthropic leader in drug, device and nutraceutical repurposing research, which has the potential to transform the lives of patients with unsolved diseases by delivering treatments that can be used in the near-term. Our focus: we find and fund proof-of-concept clinical trials that, once successful, de-risk and catalyze follow-on funding, building the clinical evidence required for regulatory approval or to support off-label use by patients everywhere.

Clinical Repurposing Research to Impact US Veterans/Military

This Request for Proposals (RFP) from Cures Within Reach (CWR) is seeking clinical repurposing trials from US-based research institutions using already approved treatments to address unmet and high-priority medical needs of US veterans and/or active US military, such as mental health, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and brain injuries. Our strongest preference is for proof of concept, pivotal, Phase I or Phase IIA clinical repurposing trials. Eligible trials may be conducted at accredited US-based academic, nonprofit and governmental research institutions and/or health systems involved with medical research, including Veterans Administration (VA) health systems and hospitals. 

Repurposed therapies must be approved and/or generally recognized as safe for human use by some regulatory agency, such as the US Food and Drug Administration, European Medicines Agency, Health Canada or Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency, and may include drugs, devices, nutraceuticals or diagnostics, as well as combination therapies. These repurposed therapies must be tested in a new indication for which they are not already approved or used widely in clinical practice as standard of care. Repurposed therapies also may be added to current standard of care to improve patient outcomes and/or quality of life.

The Rod's Tire and Service Scholarship Fund, managed by the Central Kansas Community Foundation, offers $2,500 to assist graduating Marion County high school seniors pursuing higher education or vocational training. The foundation, established in 1994, focuses on enhancing community welfare through charitable giving and emphasizes support for students majoring in agricultural fields. This scholarship aims to empower local youth and strengthen the community by investing in their educational futures.

The Colin and Sally Rowell Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Central Kansas Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to graduating seniors from Butler County, KS high schools pursuing higher education or vocational training. This scholarship aims to support students with a demonstrated interest in education or agriculture, emphasizing financial need and potential for success in college. It reflects the foundation's mission to strengthen communities through charitable giving, promoting rural philanthropy in the central Kansas region.

The Local Government Emergency Housing Support Program (LGEHS) provides essential assistance to local governments and nonprofits in response to housing crises caused by disasters. This program ensures that communities affected by emergencies can access safe, temporary housing and stabilization services, fostering recovery and resilience. Applications for funding are accepted year-round and reviewed quarterly, emphasizing the importance of timely submissions for consideration.

The Alice Willman Cassidy Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing nursing degrees. Preference is given to participants in the Caring for Our Own Program (CO-OP), while also considering applicants demonstrating financial need. This scholarship aims to enhance access to nursing education and cultivate future Indigenous healthcare leaders, reflecting MSU's commitment to community engagement and student success.

The Innovation in STEM Requests for Proposals, offered by Idaho National Laboratory, aims to bolster STEM education by providing up to $30,000 for projects that align with INL's mission and workforce development needs. The initiative emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, inviting proposals from educational institutions and organizations that strive to inspire Idaho's future STEM workforce. Each project is evaluated individually, ensuring a broad impact on K-12 education and innovation.

The Leonard Litz LGBTQ+ Foundation, via its TransPLUS Resource Center, supports transgender, gender-nonconforming, non-binary, and intersex individuals. By providing grants and resources, the Foundation aims to address urgent needs in healthcare, housing, and legal services while fostering community connections. They build peer-support networks, publish updates, and support initiatives to empower TGNCNBI individuals and their allies, ensuring that marginalized voices are heard and uplifted.

The Innovation Grant Program by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation aims to enhance the health and wellbeing of Louisianians through innovative projects. Grants, typically under $25,000, support new ideas and interventions that can potentially disrupt negative trends in health and education. This initiative promotes a research-based approach to philanthropy, encouraging applicants to challenge the status quo with fresh, impactful solutions. Projects are expected to be completed within a year.

The Community Health Improvement Fund Grants, established by St. Luke's Health System, aim to support nonprofit organizations dedicated to enhancing community health in Idaho. With a focus on collaborative and equity-driven approaches, these grants prioritize initiatives addressing significant health needs identified in the Community Health Needs Assessment. Organizations are encouraged to tackle social determinants of health such as access to nutritious foods, safe neighborhoods, and transportation to create healthier communities for all.

The Foundation for Southeast Texas Grant supports civic and social projects focusing on arts, education, health, and community development. Eligible organizations are 501(c)(3) nonprofits or government entities operating for over a year in Hardin, Jefferson, or Orange Counties. Grants are awarded annually based on available funds, with a focus on emerging community needs. Applicants must adhere to strict guidelines, and funds must be used exclusively for the approved project.

The Native Forward Direct Scholarship supports American Indian and Alaska Native students by providing mid-year funding opportunities to alleviate educational costs. With over 50 years of experience, Native Forward has empowered more than 22,000 students from diverse backgrounds. This scholarship recognizes the limited access these students face in higher education and aims to enhance their academic journeys while fostering community engagement and mentorship through a strong alumni network.

The Native Forward CPA Examination Funding provides crucial financial assistance to American Indians and Alaska Natives for covering the costs associated with the CPA examination. This initiative empowers students and professionals to pursue CPA licensure by assisting with application, registration, and exam fees. Eligible applicants can receive support for one section of the exam at a time, ensuring access to essential resources for advancing their careers and contributing positively to their communities.

The Native Forward Community Impact Research Funding supports doctoral candidates conducting research that addresses issues affecting Indian Country. This initiative provides essential financial assistance for data collection, analysis, and research travel, ensuring that Native perspectives are included in academic discourse. By fostering the next generation of Native leaders, this funding aims to empower scholars and enhance community impact through education and advocacy, ultimately preserving and enriching Native cultures.

The BIE Professional Examination Funding, provided by Native Forward Scholars Fund in partnership with BIE, offers financial assistance to support Native students in taking professional examinations, including Bar Examination funding. This award covers registration fees, preparatory course costs, and other exam-related expenses. Applicants must have graduated within one year and can only receive assistance for one exam. This initiative aims to empower Native scholars and enhance their professional visibility and opportunities.

The ECMC Foundation focuses on eliminating equity gaps in postsecondary education by 2040 through strategic grantmaking and investments. They support organizations aiming to remove barriers to completion, build institutional capacity, and transform the postsecondary ecosystem. Eligible entities include nonprofit organizations, government entities, and postsecondary institutions. However, funding is not available for personal scholarships, political activities, or projects outside the U.S. that do not align with the Foundation's mission of diversity and inclusion.

The Anthony C. Gaffke Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports full-time undergraduate students in the College of Agriculture. Eligible candidates include sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a minimum 2.0 GPA, with preference given to graduates from Gallatin County high schools. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities in agriculture, thereby contributing to the economic development of Montana and preparing students for impactful careers.

The Angie and James Anderson Memorial Music Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana high school graduates pursuing an undergraduate degree in Music Education. This scholarship prioritizes candidates who show significant community involvement, creativity, and an innovative vision for the future. The award amount varies, catering to students who demonstrate both academic and extracurricular excellence, emphasizing MSU's commitment to fostering talent in the arts while contributing to the local community.

The Andre Ellingson Film Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students in the School of Film and Photography. This opportunity is designed for those pursuing degrees in Film Option, Film Foundations, or Integrated Lens-Based Media. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and possess sophomore standing or higher, showcasing strong creative potential. While academic records are considered, this scholarship emphasizes artistic ability. Award amounts vary, aligning with the university's commitment to fostering creativity in the arts.

The Health Care Workplace Safety Grant program, established by Minnesota's 2023 Session Law, aims to enhance safety in health care environments by funding initiatives that train staff in de-escalation and support services. With a total of $1.5 million available through 30 grants, each grant may provide up to $50,000 to improve workplace safety and prevent violence, ensuring a secure atmosphere for both staff and patients.

The Silicon Schools Fund Grant supports innovative K-12 education models in California, focusing on empowering students and enhancing teaching through technology. By investing in excellent charter, district, and independent schools, as well as education support providers, the fund aims to create engaging learning environments that prepare students for a rapidly changing world. Their commitment to educational excellence fosters a collaborative approach to developing effective teaching tools and strategies.

The Bill and Tia Brown Scholarship, administered by Montana State University, aims to support students pursuing degrees in business. By fostering an environment conducive to academic excellence, this scholarship empowers recipients to innovate and address challenges in today's evolving world. The Graduate School's mission enhances the student experience with dedicated advocacy and timely support, ensuring successful outcomes for all graduate scholars. Awards vary, reflecting the commitment to cultivating future leaders in the business sector.

The Memorial Community Health, Inc. Scholarship supports Hamilton County high school seniors pursuing healthcare degrees at accredited Nebraska colleges. This scholarship emphasizes the importance of community engagement through the Youth In Philanthropy Program, which educates students on grant making and charitable activities. Eligible fields include nursing, radiology, and therapy, among others, providing opportunities for students to make a significant impact in the healthcare sector.

The Community Grants for Economic Stability aim to foster self-sufficiency in southeastern Virginia by providing funding for programs that help individuals overcome barriers to success. Since 1950, the Hampton Roads Community Foundation has supported initiatives focused on ending homelessness, enhancing workforce readiness, and promoting financial literacy. These grants are available to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that serve residents in South Hampton Roads, ensuring economic stability and improved quality of life for vulnerable populations.