Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

Mission and Areas of Interest

The Brook J. Lenfest Foundation is a charitable foundation established by Brook J. Lenfest in 2000. It is dedicated to making people aware of positive life choices and providing support and opportunities for those motivated to pursue them. Its grants focus mainly on education, job training and mentoring programs.

The Brook J. Lenfest Foundation only accepts letters of inquiry or grant proposals from qualified tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. The foundation will consider requests for operating support, specific program or project support and for capital support. Typical grants range from $5,000 to $50,000.

The Aspiring Educators CREATE Grants, funded by the National Education Association Staff Organization, offer up to $2000 to strengthen the AE Program and foster impactful partnerships. Grants focus on areas such as Educator Quality, Community Engagement, Political Action, and Social Justice. Eligible organizations include state AE chapters, and submissions are accepted three times a year. This initiative encourages aspiring educators to develop their skills and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

The Madison County Community Foundation offers Emergency Grants to support nonprofits facing unexpected expenses that hinder their missions. These grants are available year-round, with applications submitted via email. Organizations can receive one emergency grant annually, and decisions are made within 14 days. The Foundation aims to enhance the quality of life in Madison County by providing financial stewardship and community leadership, focusing on various sectors including arts, education, and health.

The J. Bulow Campbell Foundation, established in 1940, focuses on grantmaking in Atlanta and Georgia, prioritizing capital projects in education, youth development, human services, public spaces, and cultural institutions. With a legacy of over $800 million awarded, the Foundation reflects the values of its founder, J. Bulow Campbell, emphasizing careful stewardship and Christian principles. While open to neighboring states, grants are generally restricted to tax-exempt institutions, excluding individuals and certain funding purposes.

The Charles E. Carey Memorial Fund Grant, managed by the Hutchinson Community Foundation, supports Reno County nonprofits focused on arts, education, and health. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities. Priority is given to projects that align with the Fund's mission, particularly those addressing early childhood development and substance abuse prevention. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare and support innovative projects that foster growth and well-being.

The Louis N. Cassett Foundation provides grants to support a variety of charitable endeavors, particularly focusing on organizations in the Philadelphia and South Florida areas. As a private foundation operating under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, it empowers tax-exempt organizations to apply for funding. The Foundation does not impose religious affiliation requirements on recipients, ensuring that support is inclusive and aimed at a broad range of charitable, cultural, and educational projects.

​​​​​​​​​​​Mission

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development transforms communities into places people want to call home. Through investments in community-led placemaking, housing and small business development, infrastructure and broadband deployment, we partner with local government, nonprofits, and private sector stakeholders to make great places.

Vision

All Marylanders will have the opportunity to live and prosper in affordable, lovable and just communities.

Maryland Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

Community Development Block Grant Program funds help strengthen Maryland’s communities by expanding affordable housing opportunities, creating jobs, stabilizing neighborhoods and improving the overall quality of life.​

The NICF Micro Grant program offers funding up to $2,000 for projects in Miami County, Indiana, with no application deadlines. Target areas include education, health, arts, environmental initiatives, and community development. The program prioritizes projects that reach underserved communities and foster collaboration. However, it does not support ongoing operating budgets or projects solely funded by the foundation. This initiative aims to stimulate innovative solutions to community needs, encouraging self-sustainability and effective charitable organizations.

The NICF: Miami County Grants - Community Support Grant aims to support various community projects in Miami County, offering funding from several hundred to thousands of dollars. These grants have no application deadline and prioritize initiatives in education, health, human services, arts and culture, environmental efforts, community development, recreation, and youth development. The foundation encourages innovative projects that address unmet community needs and foster collaboration among organizations.

The Turtle Trackers - Linda Zambelli Family Scholarship Fund, established in 2025 by the Turtle Trackers Board, honors Linda Zambelli's legacy through scholarships for students pursuing higher education in Marine Biology and Environmental Sciences. This initiative supports high school seniors from Beaufort and Jasper Counties, ensuring they have opportunities to excel academically while fostering a commitment to marine conservation. The fund is managed by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, which has invested over $125 million in local communities.

The Community Trust Foundation Inc.

The inception of a Western Maryland community foundation for building economic prosperity and for enhancing the quality of life for its people came from caring community leaders of The Greater Cumberland Committee. The primary question was whether the dream for this foundation could be realized. Together, they worked with Casper R. Taylor Jr., Maryland Speaker of the House, 1994-2003 and promoted the benefits of a community foundation for “ leaving behind a legacy to solve local problems by people who know and care about local problems” to the Cumberland Chamber of Commerce & Rotary of Cumberland, MD.

CTF was fortunate to operate with dedicated board members and a small part-time staff in a rent-free office space. Working tirelessly, the board worked to grow funds, secured operating capital, and submitted a 500-page policy and procedure manual to earn accreditation from the Council of Foundations. They also established advisory councils for each county (Allegany, Garrett, and Mineral), sponsored an annual Humanitarian Award Banquet for community outreach, and gained respect from community members and organizations seeking their leadership.

The Community Trust Foundation Grant

CTF serves as a community leader in philanthropy by raising, managing and distributing funds to address identified needs in Allegany and Garrett Counties, Maryland and in Mineral County, West Virginia. We partner with area non-profits and donors to make effective grants and enable local citizens to generate local solutions in their communities. We make grants to non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to building better, stronger, more vital communities in the region.

Since our inception in 2006, CTF has awarded over $7 million in grants, building stronger more vibrant communities. CTF grants support; the arts, education, historical preservation, health and wellness and building a thriving environment. We are committed to identifying high-priority needs and opportunities to make a significant positive impact on the community. CTF grants are typically used to provide start-up or short-term funding to innovative projects designed to meet emerging needs or with creative solutions to longer-term issues.

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.

Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation

For more than 80 years, the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation has worked to ensure that Nebraska’s history isn’t just preserved—it’s actively shared, explored, and reimagined. Through private donations, the Foundation supports projects across the state that restore historic places, expand access to educational resources, and bring new life to local stories. Signature programs and experiences, like WanderNebraska and Walk to the Rock, invite people to connect with the state’s past in fresh, meaningful ways—whether by visiting a small-town museum, discovering a hidden landmark, or exploring a piece of forgotten heritage.

Grant Focus

The focus for the fall cycle is Education and Access and the main areas for grant distribution will be:

• School visits, field trips and transportation
• Youth and family engagement
• Festival or milestone event support
• Professional development and conference registrations

RoamNebraska (formerly the NSHSF Statewide Grants Program) was developed in July 2020, with the guidance of Michael J. Smith, former CEO of the Nebraska State Historical Society, to address a critical funding need for local historical and educational organizations across Nebraska.

Through this program, grants support museums, historical societies, libraries, and community partners in delivering core education, preservation, and interpretive programs that bring community history to life.

The Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation is committed to advancing efforts that build respect, dignity, fairness, equality, and self-esteem. We value diverse life experiences and are devoted to fostering inclusive and equitable environments where all Nebraskans can see their stories reflected and honored.

The Wilkes Community Foundation's Greater Wilkes Community Fund supports local nonprofits through competitive grants, addressing diverse community needs since 1994. With over $100,000 awarded, the fund focuses on education, health, and economic development. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $2,500, with total funding not exceeding $10,000. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and local governments, fostering inclusive community support without discrimination.

In 1975, the Montana Legislature set aside a percentage of the Coal Tax to restore murals in the Capitol and support other cultural and aesthetic projects. Applications must be for cultural and aesthetic projects including, but not limited to: Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Literary Arts, Media Arts, History, Archaeology, Folklore, Archives, Collections, Research, Historic Preservation and Construction and Renovation of Cultural Facilities. 

The Knight Family Charitable Foundation, established by Peg and Bill Knight, focuses on enhancing community welfare through humanitarian support, education, and the arts. It aims to protect native wildlife and their habitats while promoting projects aligned with its mission. The foundation continues the legacy of giving back, inspired by the Knights' lifelong commitment to community service. 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations are eligible for support, fostering initiatives that resonate with the foundation's vision.

The Silvio O. Conte Digestive Diseases Research Core Centers (DDRCCs) program invites applications to enhance communication and collaboration among researchers in digestive and liver diseases. Funded by the NIDDK, DDRCCs focus on shared resources that foster productivity and innovative research ideas. Each center must revolve around a central theme aligned with the NIDDK's mission, ensuring effective research support while avoiding overlap with other NIH Institutes' funding areas.

The TCFNF Program Support Grants aim to enhance the quality of life in Putnam County by funding nonprofits focused on education, safety nets, and general welfare. Grants range from $10,000 to $25,000, prioritizing projects that serve local residents. With a history of distributing $600 million since 1964, the Community Foundation for Northeast Florida is dedicated to strengthening community organizations and fostering impactful initiatives for those in need.

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 Advisor Recommendation (Donor Advised) Grants by the Ripley County Community Foundation support nonprofits in Ripley County. Advisors must submit a recommendation form for funding distributions to qualified organizations. Grants focus on community needs, seed funding for projects, and emphasize strong organizational support. Eligible organizations must comply with fiscal responsibility and reporting requirements. Grants will not cover individual expenses or completed projects prior to decision dates. This initiative aims to foster local development and sustainability.

The Ripley County Community Foundation offers grants to nonprofit organizations serving Ripley County. The program aims to be responsive to community needs, focusing on seed money and pilot projects, while encouraging collaborative contributions. Applicants must demonstrate fiscal responsibility and meet eligibility criteria, including being an exempt organization. Certain restrictions apply, such as no grants to individuals or for endowment purposes. The foundation seeks to enhance community services in areas like arts, business, education, and the environment.

The Tarter / Herman-Crum Grants, offered by the Ripley County Community Foundation, are designed to enhance the quality of life for residents in Osgood and its surrounding areas. Nonprofit organizations can apply for up to $2,500 annually to support innovative community projects. The grants prioritize flexibility and collaboration, focusing on initiatives that align with the Foundation's service areas, including arts, business development, education, and environmental stewardship.

Detroit Lake Foundation

Established in 2015, the mission of the Detroit Lake Foundation is to enhance the quality of life for residents and establish a sustainable economic recovery to ensure that the city thrives for current and future generations.

All projects managed by Detroit Lake Foundation are projects that will improve the community infrastructure and benefit the entire community. Detroit Lake Foundation is a 501C3 organization.

Policy and Procedure for DLF Grant Request

The DLF raises funds through events that benefit the local Detroit-Idanha economy and through generous donations from individuals and businesses who want to join together to sustain the strength and future of the Detroit Lake region.

The DLF may, at its discretion, post information about the completed grant projects and programs, including grant funding amounts, on the website and in social media.

This policy and procedure as adopted by the DLF Board provides the structure for granting funding to projects and programs consistent with the mission of the DLF. This policy is reviewed annually by the DLF Board.

DLF Grant

How Grant Funds are Paid

• Unless otherwise specified and approved by the DLF Board, grants shall be on a reimbursement basis and payable upon receipt of expense documents related to the grant activity.

• Grants that provide advance funding will be based on the proposed budget, are subject to Board approval and are required to submit financial documentation upon completion.

LIFT Fund of Weld County Grant

The LIFT Fund was created to shift the narrative around Latino philanthropy in Weld County and Northern Colorado and to build a legacy of impact in the community. Latinos have long been leaders, organizers, and changemakers in Northern Colorado, often working behind the scenes to make a difference. This fund brings that collective investment into the light by providing mini-grants to local nonprofits advancing initiatives in: 

• Youth Engagement & Success 
• Economic Mobility and Small Business Support 
• Community-Led Research & Innovation  

Grant Amount:

• up to $5,000 (subject to changes)

The LIFT Fund of Weld County will, in particular, look for:

• a project that drives meaningful change 
• has measurable outcomes
• partnership and volunteering opportunities
• goal of program self-sufficiency
• financial stability
• opportunities to leverage funds

The Tribal Solar Accelerator Fund (TSAF) empowers tribal communities across the U.S. by promoting renewable energy projects and workforce development. Launched by GRID Alternatives, TSAF provides critical funding for solar initiatives, enhancing energy sovereignty and resilience. Since its inception, TSAF has integrated community participation into its projects, ensuring that tribes can access sustainable energy solutions. By prioritizing education and equity, TSAF supports a transition to a clean energy economy, aiming for a sustainable future for generations to come.

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 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.