Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Mighty Money Mini Grant from the AWS Foundation aims to empower individuals with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities in Northeast Indiana. By providing quick funding to 501(c)(3) organizations, this initiative supports innovative ideas that enhance community inclusion, education, and accessibility. The grant focuses on initiatives such as social enrichment, education, transportation, early diagnosis, and housing, ensuring that these individuals can live independently and thrive within their communities.

The Ordinance Development Projects grant, offered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, supports the creation of local regulations aimed at benefiting surface water. Eligible activities include ordinance text development, legal work, compliance training, and outreach efforts. Applicants must submit a pre-application by September 15 and a full proposal by November 15, along with a letter of support from the implementing government unit, promoting sustainable management of Wisconsin's natural resources.

The Fund for Women & Girls Grant aims to empower economically vulnerable women and girls in greater Mercer County through community investment and education. By supporting diverse projects such as early childhood education, mental health services, and workforce development, the grant fosters a collaborative environment for nonprofits. Eligible organizations must possess tax-exempt status and operate within specified geographical areas, ensuring targeted assistance. This initiative reflects a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, enhancing the quality of life for those in need.

The William F. Thiel Grants, established by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, honor the legacy of philanthropist William F. Thiel, focusing on healthcare needs in Wyoming County. Grants prioritize access to health services, chronic disease management, emergency aid for low-income residents, food security, mental health support, and transportation. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and operate in Wyoming County, ensuring a singular competitive grant at any time.

The Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy Proposition 4 Grant Program aims to enhance climate resilience through nature-based solutions in conservation lands. It supports projects focused on habitat restoration, wildfire risk reduction, and improving public access to outdoor recreation. Priority is given to initiatives benefiting disadvantaged communities and those that align with California's 30x30 conservation goals. Funding is provided through the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is offering $1.1 million in Small Communities Planning Grants to support climate planning projects in communities with populations under 10,000. This initiative aims to enhance resilience against stormwater issues, improve wastewater systems, and adapt community services to changing climate conditions. By partnering with local governments, the MPCA is addressing the urgent impacts of climate change through innovative, community-centered approaches.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is offering $1.6 million in planning grants for climate resilience projects across Minnesota. These funds aim to help communities assess vulnerabilities related to stormwater management, wastewater systems, and public services in the face of climate change. This initiative supports local efforts to enhance resilience, reduce flood risks, and adapt to changing environmental conditions, ensuring healthier communities and sustainable natural resources.

Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants support projects focusing on water stewardship across the Great Lakes watershed. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, eligible organizations can apply for funding to improve ecosystem health, enhance public health through better water resource management, and promote resilience against climate-related water risks. This initiative highlights Bell's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support in all 50 states and DC.

The Healthy Lives Grant Program by The New York Community Trust aims to enhance health services for older adults and individuals with disabilities in New York City. It focuses on creating an equitable healthcare system by supporting projects that improve access to care, reduce health disparities, and empower individuals through skill development. The program prioritizes innovative solutions that foster independence and community engagement, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive comprehensive support tailored to their needs.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

Aquatic Invasive Species Control – Large or Small-Scale Population Management

(See page 31 of attatched PDF)

When an established population of aquatic invasive species is having adverse effects on a waterbody or wetland, funding is available for control activities. Managing aquatic invasive species can be challenging, but adaptive and integrated pest management can help. Participation in the large- or small-scale control program requires an approved recommendation in an aquatic plant or aquatic invasive species management plan. Eligible projects will implement one or more of the resulting recommendations. Public access required, unless controlling a prohibited species.

DNR cost share: Grants may cover up to 75% of total project costs.

The AIS Population Management Grant includes Small-Scale Population Management Projects and Large-Scale Population Management Projects.

Large-Scale Population Management Projects

Large-Scale Population Management projects will result in long-term, multi-season suppression of one or more established populations of aquatic invasive species. Projects are large in scale, affecting a substantial portion of a lake, stream reach, or wetland.

Projects that address multiple populations across a region should employ a strategic approach to managing multiple populations, prioritizing control actions in a way that ensures wise spending of grant funds. For example, a regional wetland control project might focus on populations that threaten high-functioning natural wetlands or focus on small, more easily controlled populations. For Phragmites-focused projects seeking AIS planning and control grant funds, please see the Phragmites Statewide Management Strategy for more specific guidance.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

Aquatic Invasive Species Control – Large or Small-Scale Population Management

(See page 31 of attatched PDF)

When an established population of aquatic invasive species is having adverse effects on a waterbody or wetland, funding is available for control activities. Managing aquatic invasive species can be challenging, but adaptive and integrated pest management can help. Participation in the large- or small-scale control program requires an approved recommendation in an aquatic plant or aquatic invasive species management plan. Eligible projects will implement one or more of the resulting recommendations. Public access required, unless controlling a prohibited species.

DNR cost share: Grants may cover up to 75% of total project costs.

The AIS Population Management Grant includes Small-Scale Population Management Projects and Large-Scale Population Management Projects.

Small-Scale Population Management Projects

Small-Scale Population Management projects will maintain a low abundance of one or more aquatic invasive species populations or further reduce their size. Projects should implement management activities with the goal of continued suppression of the target species where the actions are unlikely to affect the entire lake, stream reach or wetland. Projects should be designed to result in long-term, multi-season suppression of one or more established populations of the target species.

The MHUW Strategic Investment Grants support nonprofit organizations in the seven-county Metro Denver area, focusing on basic needs, early childhood education, and out-of-school programming. These grants aim to empower organizations that align with the Mile High United Way's mission to foster community well-being and economic stability. This competitive grantmaking process emphasizes collaboration and community-driven solutions to address critical human service issues, ensuring every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

The Innovative Technology for Harmful Algal Blooms Grant supports local governments and nonprofit organizations in Florida to implement innovative solutions for combating harmful algal blooms. Projects may focus on nutrient reduction, algae removal, or improving monitoring techniques. Key funding considerations include the scalability of technology and its environmental safety. Eligible areas are those with a history of algal blooms and a management action plan in place, ensuring the greatest impact on water quality.

The Service Club Alliance Grant, offered by the Midland Lions Club, focuses on addressing critical needs in the Midland community through collaborative efforts of local service clubs. This grant supports various causes including vision, hunger, and humanitarian efforts, ensuring resources are allocated effectively. By streamlining the application process, the Alliance encourages community organizations to seek funding for impactful projects. The Midland Area Community Foundation facilitates this partnership without making grant decisions, empowering local service initiatives.

The Conservation Partners Grant Program, funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, supports private landowners in implementing regenerative agriculture and conservation practices. By awarding competitive grants, the program facilitates technical assistance for developing management plans and best practices, enabling landowners to maximize the ecological benefits of their lands. This initiative is crucial for enhancing fish and wildlife habitats, addressing pressing conservation issues, and promoting sustainable land stewardship across the United States.

The Watershed Protection Plan Implementation Grants (TX) provide funding for local initiatives aimed at enhancing water quality through tree and forestry components. With a total of fifteen grants, each valued at $50,000, this program targets disadvantaged communities and prioritized watersheds. By leveraging partnerships among local governments, water utilities, and NGOs, it promotes nature-based solutions that not only improve environmental health but also increase equitable access to urban green spaces.

Bristol Myers Squibb is dedicated to enhancing healthcare and advancing scientific knowledge through its Corporate Giving program. By supporting various organizations, BMS aims to improve health equity and access to essential medicines for underserved populations. Their focus includes charitable donations, medical education, and community support initiatives. This commitment reflects BMS's goal to make a positive impact on patients' lives and foster strong communities where their employees work and live.

The NAACP X Society Awards Scholarship

The NAACP x Society Awards Scholarship is one of many funding opportunities available to students through NAACP's Inspire Initiatives. We offer scholarships to outstanding and qualified students pursuing undergraduate degrees. Through the generosity of our donors, we advance efforts to ensure equity in educational opportunity that prepares students for success in school, work, and life.

Scholarship amount: $1,000 to $5,000

This is a non-renewable scholarship opportunity.

Department of Health and Human Services

DHHS is the largest agency in New Hampshire state government, responsible for the health, safety and well-being of the citizens of New Hampshire. DHHS provides services for individuals, children, families and seniors, and administers programs and services such as mental health, developmental disability, substance misuse, and public health. This is accomplished through partnerships with families, community groups, private providers, other state and local government entities, and many citizens throughout the State who help make New Hampshire a special place in which to live.

RFP-2027-DPH-07-PROCD: Chronic Disease Prevention and Wellness Programs

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health (“Department”) is seeking responses to this Request for Proposals ("Solicitation" or "RFP") from qualified Vendors to provide comprehensive chronic disease and rural health program support, including coordination of projects and partner activities, development and delivery of educational trainings, implementation of evidence-based strategies, evaluation support, and communication activities that promote the prevention and management of chronic disease including asthma, cancer, diabetes, prediabetes, hypertension, and arthritis.

The Episcopal Health Foundation Grant invites existing and new partners to apply for funding opportunities from January to May 2026, focusing on three key Impact Drivers. This initiative is part of the Strategic Framework 2025-2030, aimed at improving health systems and removing barriers for Texans. The application process for Cycle 2 will commence in June 2026, with updates on funding priorities expected in Spring 2026.

Transformative Care Model

Accelerator Partners (Now Open)

The Accelerator Partner Program is proposed as support for hospitals or other organizations in rural regions that demonstrate strong readiness and commitment to implement the CalRHT Transformative Care Model (TCM) through regional care collaboratives and hub-and-spoke relationships which will seek to strengthen primary and maternity care in rural parts of the state.  

Accelerator Partners will strengthen TCM performance metrics in their service areas while serving as testing sites for innovative care models and evidence-based approaches. Accelerator Partners will demonstrate how integrated service delivery can strengthen access, quality, and sustainability in rural communities.

Lessons learned from these Accelerator Partners will inform statewide scaling and continuous improvement of the regional care collaboratives and hub-and-spoke framework in future years.

The Scott County Regional Authority (SCRA) provides grants to non-profit organizations and educational institutions in Scott County, Iowa, primarily funded by gaming receipts from the Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf. These grants support a wide array of services, including arts, education, and social services. The application cycles occur in April and October, with specific eligibility requirements for applicants. Since 1991, SCRA has awarded over $101 million to various community initiatives.

The Andersen Corporate Foundation, established in 1941, aims to enhance lives and strengthen communities where its employees reside. It has contributed over $65 million to various causes, focusing on housing, healthcare, hunger relief, and education. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, primarily supporting nonprofit organizations that align with these areas, particularly in communities where Andersen operates, ensuring a lasting impact on local initiatives.

The Puget Sound Stewardship and Mitigation Fund Grant aims to enhance water quality in Puget Sound through community-based projects. Funded by the Rose Foundation, the grant supports 501(c)3 organizations and governmental entities focusing on pollution mitigation, conservation, and education. Grants typically span one year with a maximum of $40,000. The foundation prefers locally-led initiatives and encourages applications from environmental justice organizations to foster equity in project implementation.

The TX AmeriCorps Planning Grant, managed by OneStar, aims to address Texas's social challenges through national service. Engaging over 3,200 AmeriCorps members across 33 organizations, it focuses on disaster services, economic opportunity, education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, and support for veterans. This initiative enhances community resilience, improves lives, and fosters civic engagement by directing resources effectively to those in need, contributing to a stronger, more interconnected Texas.

The Medical Research Grants program offers funding of up to $25,000 for Resubmission Grants aimed at enhancing NIH proposals that were previously scored in the top 50% but not funded. These grants support various research areas, including infectious diseases and cancer, and are particularly focused on junior faculty within Rhode Island's academic and hospital institutions. The funding can cover costs such as data gathering and equipment, but not salary support.

The NHLBI Career Transition Award (K22) supports postdoctoral fellows and research trainees in the NHLBI Division of Intramural Research, facilitating their transition to independent research roles at extramural institutions. Key deadlines for applications include October 12, 2024, and February 12, 2025, among others, providing ample opportunity for qualified investigators to advance their careers.