Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Thomas P. and Sondra D. Sheehan Charitable Foundation provides essential medical assistance to financially challenged families, focusing on children in need. The foundation prioritizes Hamilton County residents and offers support for durable medical equipment, therapy services, and short-term treatments. Applications for funding must meet specific medical guidelines and are reviewed annually. Families connected to nonprofit organizations or medical facilities have a better chance of receiving assistance, ensuring children can access necessary healthcare and improve their quality of life.

The SECU Foundation Grant, offered by the State Employees Credit Union Foundation, focuses on supporting non-profits and governmental organizations that embody the philosophy of people helping people. The grant aims to promote community development through high-impact projects in housing, education, healthcare, and human services. Eligible projects should be tangible, have a statewide or major regional impact, and enhance the conditions for public employees in North Carolina. This initiative fosters collaboration and addresses critical community issues.

The NYSAR Community Reuse Grant supports community-based groups, municipalities, businesses, and non-profits in New York State to implement reuse initiatives. This year, $15,000 is available, with each awardee receiving up to $5,000. Notably, projects focusing on recycling or organics will not be considered. Applicants must submit a budget and answer all questions for consideration. Grant winners will be contacted in mid-October and are encouraged to attend the NYSAR3 Annual Conference to receive their awards.

Mid-America Arts Alliance

Mid-America Arts Alliance (M-AAA) believes art can be a catalyst for expression, connection, collaboration, and community. This philosophy is reflected in our mission and values.

M-AAA is a nonprofit, regional arts organization representing Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, and beyond. We focus on strengthening communities and improving lives by supporting artists, elevating arts organizations, and connecting people to extraordinary cultural experiences.

Artistic Innovations Grants for Individual Artists

Program Objectives

The Artistic Innovations program supports the development of new or original works of art across all disciplines, created exclusively by in-region individual artists and art-based organizations in M-AAA’s six-state region (Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, and the Native Nations in this geography). Eligible applicants include individual artists and nonprofit 501(c)(3) arts organizations in the region.

Individual Artist Grant Considerations

The Artistic Innovations grant program supports direct project expenses incurred in the art-making process and production of public-facing engagements to individuals through private funds. These grants are funded through private support and, unlike Artistic Innovations grants to organizations, are not supported by the National Endowment for the Arts.

The Selley Foundation Grant, managed by the Greater New Orleans Foundation, focuses on enhancing the lives of individuals in the Greater New Orleans area. With an emphasis on capital needs, it supports nonprofits in arts & culture, education, and environmental initiatives. The foundation occasionally considers programmatic requests, aiming to foster a vibrant community that celebrates the unique character of the region while ensuring sustainable growth and support for local organizations.

The Lloyd G. Balfour Foundation, established in 1973, provides grants primarily to educational organizations and charities serving the underserved populations of Attleboro, Massachusetts. The Foundation prioritizes applications that support education, healthcare, and human services. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) public charities, municipalities, and religious organizations. The Foundation encourages multi-year funding requests and considers capital grants on a case-by-case basis, focusing on improving community well-being and educational outcomes in the region.

The Healthy Retail Grant aims to improve access to healthy food options in underserved neighborhoods like Bayview and Tenderloin, driven by grassroots initiatives from organizations such as SEFA and TLHCSC. Established by the Office of Economic and Workforce Development following Supervisor Eric Mar's legislation in 2013, it provides tailored support to local stores through Individualized Development Plans, enhancing business operations, physical changes, and community engagement.

The Giving in Action Grants - Make a Difference Grant provides funding between $25,000 and $50,000 for nonprofits serving the areas of Arts & Culture, Community & Economic Development, Education, Environmental & Conservation, and Health & Human Services. Organizations located outside the service region are eligible to apply. This initiative supports special projects and expanded programming to benefit communities in specific counties of Illinois and Iowa.

The Ryman Hospitality Properties Foundation Grant supports organizations that focus on the arts, education, and youth enrichment in communities impacted by Ryman's assets. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt under IRS guidelines and align with the foundation's focus areas. The foundation aims to enhance cultural education and provide opportunities for disadvantaged children through various programs, ensuring compliance with federal and local laws.

The FH Vinecore Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports Douglas County students attending Washington State University. Eligible applicants include high school seniors or graduates from Douglas County, with preference for those from Orondo and majoring in Horticulture or Business Administration. This scholarship aims to empower local students to pursue higher education while nurturing community ties.

The Carolyn’s Kids Grant, offered by the Berrien Community Foundation, aims to enhance the lives of children in Benton Harbor, St. Joseph, and Stevensville. With two grants of $50,000 each, this initiative supports programs that address various needs, from basic necessities to educational and emotional well-being. It reflects Carolyn Hanson’s commitment to nurturing children for a stronger future. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, schools, and community organizations dedicated to improving children's lives.

The Atmospheric and Geospace Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (AGS-PRF) support early career researchers conducting independent studies in diverse areas such as Atmospheric Chemistry and Space Weather Research. These fellowships, lasting up to 24 months, aim to enhance the research capabilities of promising individuals while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and leadership within the scientific community. AGS encourages applications from diverse backgrounds to promote inclusivity and equity in geoscience.

The Annual Main Grant Funding Cycle by the New Canaan Community Foundation aims to enhance the community's quality of life through strategic funding. Supporting diverse areas such as arts, health, human services, seniors, and youth education, the foundation seeks to address local challenges collaboratively. By investing in nonprofit organizations and fostering partnerships, the foundation strengthens community ties and ensures that all residents have access to essential resources and support.

The Richmond County Savings Foundation (RCSF) offers Board Grants to nonprofit organizations with IRS 501(c)(3) status, supporting projects that enhance community quality of life. Grants, which can reach up to $25,000, are available for programs in education, culture, and health. To be eligible, organizations must be Staten Island-based, in good standing, and comply with federal and state filings. RCSF aims to foster growth and prosperity in the communities it serves.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is a federal K–12 education law. ESSA was signed into law in 2015, replacing No Child Left Behind, and reauthorizing the original Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), which was signed into law in 1965 by President Lyndon Baines Johnson.

ESSA requires every state to measure performance in reading, math, and science. Every school must inform parents about their standards and their results. 

ESSA requires every state to provide parents important information on test performance in reading, math, and science. The report cards must also provide data on graduation rates, suspensions, absenteeism, teacher qualifications, and many other areas. Texas provides maximum transparency for parents and publicly shares performance information on TXschools.gov and in data reports on the Performance Reporting pages.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant includes: 1) Title I, Part A Grants; 2) Title I, Part C Grants; 3) Title I, Part D, Subpart 1 Grants; 4) Title I, Part D, Subpart 2 Grants; 5) Title II, Part A Grants; 6) Title III, Part A ELA Grants; 7) Title III, Part A Immigrant Grants; and 8) Title IV, Part A, Subpart 1 Grants.

Title III, Part A Immigrant

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

Title III, Part A - Immigrant, provides supplemental funds to school systems who are experiencing substantial increases in immigrant students for activities that provide enhanced instructional opportunities for immigrant students.

Intended beneficiaries are immigrant children and youth.

The Capital & Naming Rights Grants support initiatives that enhance community equity in San Antonio. This funding is aimed at organizations that align with key impact areas, including cultural vibrancy, livable communities, successful aging, and youth success. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations operating in specific Texas counties and demonstrate a commitment to addressing community needs through innovative projects. Proposals may include capital project expenses as well as operating costs post-project completion.

The Rum River Community Foundation Grant, a philanthropic initiative by the Initiative Foundation, aims to enhance community livability through funding for parks, recreation, and youth engagement in the cities of Bock, Foreston, Milaca, and Pease. Grants are awarded to eligible nonprofit organizations, school districts, and local governments, focusing on proposals that foster community involvement and pride. The maximum grant size is $1,000, not exceeding 50% of total project costs.

About WDFW

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is dedicated to preserving, protecting, and perpetuating the state’s fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.

Headquartered in Olympia, the department maintains six regional offices and manages dozens of wildlife areas and hundreds of water access areas around the state, offering fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and other recreational opportunities for the residents of Washington.

Watchable Wildlife Grant Program

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) created the Watchable Wildlife Grant Program in 2021 to support wildlife viewing opportunities and foster stewardship of wildlife in Washington. Funds to support the Washington Watchable Wildlife Grant come from the Wild on Washington: Bald Eagle license plate – one of WDFW’s specialized license plates.

Wildlife viewing is a recreational activity of observing fish or wildlife or signs of them in their habitats (e.g. tracks, nests, scat). This includes exploring habitat in person or online to better understand fish and wildlife.

WDFW’s Watchable Wildlife Program as defined by RCW 77.32.560 includes but is not limited to: Initiating partnerships with communities to jointly develop watchable wildlife projects, building infrastructure to serve wildlife viewers, assisting and training communities in conducting wildlife watching events, developing destination wildlife viewing corridors and trails, tours, maps, brochures, and travel aides, and offering grants to assist rural communities in identifying key wildlife attractions and ways to protect and promote them.

The Madison Community Foundation's Community Impact Grants aim to enhance the quality of life for residents in greater Madison. They support innovative nonprofits and initiatives across five key areas: Arts & Culture, Community Development, Environment, Learning, and Organizational Capacity Building. Grants are available for program development, capital projects, and endowment challenges, fostering a vibrant, equitable community. Organizations must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being located within Dane County and operating without discrimination.

Taos Diplomats Scholarship

The Taos Diplomats Scholarship was first established in 2015 by Peter Winter (Taos High ’04) and Dori Winter, who have served as Foreign Service Officers with the U.S. Department of State. During college at the University of Southern California, Peter studied International Relations and Mandarin Chinese, later studying abroad in Beijing, China. Dori, a graduate of the University of South Carolina and Texas A&M University, studied in China and France. Both have represented the United States government at embassies and consulates around the world, including assignments in Northern Ireland, Egypt, Pakistan, China, Israel, and Saudi Arabia.

This award is open to graduating High School Seniors from Taos County (GPA of 3.0 or above) who are interested in pursuing a degree in fields such as international affairs, political science, public and government policy, global communications, international education and development, global health, international business, and foreign languages or studying abroad. This scholarship is open to those applying to 4 year colleges and universities as well as 2 year vocational/trade schools. The award ranges from $250.00 to $1,000.00 and is paid directly to the student’s account at the college or university attended.

The FY 2025 Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) aims to enhance the physical and cybersecurity of nonprofit organizations at risk of extremist attacks. This initiative focuses on improving security postures, addressing capability gaps, and fostering collaboration among organizations and local agencies. By providing essential funding for planning, equipment, and training, the NSGP seeks to protect vulnerable facilities and ensure a coordinated community response to security challenges.

Seacoast Womens Giving Circle

We are 200 members strong and are committed to preserving the quality of life on the Seacoast. Members hail from around the world but most call the Seacoast area "home". 

What We Do

Members contribute to an annual collective gift and participate in volunteer service projects in the community. Over the course of the year, members educate themselves about community issues, identify a specific topic on which to focus, and select nonprofit organization(s) to receive the Giving Circle's annual gift.

Where We Serve

The immediate scope of our giving and volunteering includes the following towns: Seabrook, Hampton, Hampton Falls, North Hampton, Rye, Portsmouth, New Castle, Greenland, Newington and Kittery.

Request for Grant Application

Topic: Protecting Marginalized and At Risk Children & Adolescents

When children and adolescents face mistreatment or discrimination, are stigmatized, and/or cannot access vital health and educational services, they cannot thrive.

The Seacoast Women's Giving Circle will be accepting applications from organizations that support marginalized and at-risk children and adolescents.

Priority will be given to organizations that address one or more of the following:

• ​Direct services
• Advocacy
• Social change initiatives

Seacoast Women’s Giving Circle Priorities:

• Improving quality of life on the Seacoast
• Serving the socio-economically underprivileged
• Fostering independence and self-reliance
• Addressing emerging needs and issues
• Providing long-term solutions
• Investing in the expansion of existing organizations rather than the creation of new ones

We are accepting applications for unrestricted funding grants of $25,000.

The BNSF Railway Foundation provides grants to enhance community quality of life across 28 states, focusing on educational, cultural, and social service initiatives. With over $150 million contributed since 2000, the foundation emphasizes projects with strong local engagement and BNSF employee involvement. Eligible organizations include public charities, local governments, and tribal governments, while ineligible entities encompass religious organizations and those with discriminatory practices. Priority is given to environmental, health, and cultural projects.

The Kassing, Margaret, Educational Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating senior from Beatrice High School aiming to become a teacher. This scholarship emphasizes academic achievement, community involvement, and financial need. Applicants must submit a complete application, including a Student Aid Report from FAFSA, and must not receive excessive scholarship funds that exceed their needs. This initiative supports aspiring educators in their pursuit of higher education.

The CNS Pantex Community Investment Grant Program, administered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, invites nonprofit organizations in the northern Texas Panhandle to apply for funding. This program prioritizes basic needs, education, health, and community development. Eligible applicants must possess 501(c)(3) status and serve local communities. The focus is on projects that address pressing community needs, fostering support for families, youth, and essential services. Proposals from outside the designated counties will not be accepted.

The John Clarke Trust Grant, established in 1676 by Dr. John Clarke, aims to support the relief of the poor and the education of children in Rhode Island. The trust prioritizes requests from 501(c)(3) organizations located on Aquidneck Island, reflecting its commitment to serving the local community. With a focus on education, human services, and religion-related programs, this grant continues Dr. Clarke's legacy of charitable giving and community support.

The Kleveland, Garold E., and Clarice A. SCC Scholarship, established by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating senior from Beatrice High School pursuing Auto Mechanics at Southeast Community College. It supports students demonstrating interest and financial need while promoting academic excellence. The foundation, a nonprofit established in 1987, awards over $55,000 annually in scholarships, working alongside a 15-member Board and students to enhance educational opportunities in the community.