Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Martin Family Foundation, established in 2001, focuses on supporting 501(c)(3) organizations that promote faith-based education, assist the poor and at-risk, and uphold the sanctity of human life. With a mission rooted in Christian values, the Foundation prioritizes programs in Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming that break the cycle of poverty and encourage community involvement. While it occasionally supports operating expenses, the Foundation prefers funding projects that align with its core values.

The Arkansas Specialty Crop Block Grant Program aims to enhance the marketability and consumption of specialty crops in Arkansas. Key funding priorities include increasing local access to healthy foods, improving nutrition in schools, and supporting research to aid growers in reducing costs and enhancing food safety. This initiative fosters community health and agricultural sustainability, making it a vital resource for local farmers and consumers.

The Community Foundation of West Texas offers the Community Funds Grant, designed to support a variety of community needs through targeted funding. Grants range from $1,000 to $10,000, focusing on areas such as Civic Development, Education, and Basic Needs. Organizations within the 15-county South Plains region that are 501(c)(3) or equivalent can apply, with the goal of alleviating poverty and creating pathways for individuals and families in need.

First Tech Education Grants focus on innovative solutions for children and families, primarily in education and fundamental needs. They support nonprofits in Oregon, Washington, and Northern California with grants aimed at enhancing STEM education, early childhood literacy, and financial education for underserved communities. By partnering with local organizations, First Tech aims to build capacity and provide essential resources to help these communities thrive. Organizations can apply for support through an online application process.

The St. Joe Community Foundation, established in 1999, aims to enhance the quality of life in Northwest Florida through grants to 501(c)(3) organizations. Focused on education, environmental stewardship, health, and cultural arts, the foundation prioritizes projects that promise long-term community benefits. Organizations based in Bay and Walton Counties are eligible to apply, fostering sustainable civic infrastructure to support the unique character and heritage of the region.

The CFECFL Community Grant Program offers competitive grants to nonprofit organizations serving Chemung and Southeastern Steuben counties. Grants support diverse areas including the arts, education, environment, and human services. Eligible organizations must be locally based, IRS 501(c)(3) classified, and demonstrate successful prior grant completion. The program focuses on direct service, capital projects, and organizational development, providing unrestricted funding to enhance nonprofit missions and community impact.

The Bicycle Advocacy Grants Program, supported by New Belgium Brewing Co, aims to foster community engagement through bicycle projects. With over $11.3 million donated since its inception in 1995, the program focuses on breaking down barriers to cycling and promoting accessibility for all. Projects targeting increased ridership and addressing systemic inequities are prioritized. This initiative reflects New Belgium's commitment to sustainability and social equity, enhancing community connections through the joy of cycling.

The Oceanside Community Foundation Grant supports projects aimed at preparing young people, ages 16-25, for independence by developing essential life and employment skills. With funding requests ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 for the 2025-2026 cycle, OCF focuses on initiatives that positively impact the community of Oceanside. The foundation encourages responsible philanthropy and aims to inspire a culture of giving that enriches the quality of life for residents both now and in the future.

The Marion and Miriam Rose Fund aims to support childcare facilities for dependent, neglected, and emotionally disturbed children, including those in foster care, primarily in Little Rock, Arkansas. This private fund prioritizes organizations with operating budgets under $1 million and focuses on general operating support. Requests for individuals or capital projects are generally not accepted. Grants are typically awarded for one year, reflecting the fund's commitment to addressing urgent childcare needs.

The Sex Worker Giving Circle Grant, launched by the Third Wave Fund, prioritizes funding for grassroots movements led by individuals directly impacted by gender oppression, especially within the sex work community. With a commitment to gender justice, the grant supports organizations that operate with a participatory approach to grantmaking, enabling them to address systemic inequalities. In recent years, the fund has distributed significant resources to empower and sustain these vital movements across the United States.

The Get Schools Cooking Grant supports medium-sized U.S. school districts in transforming their meal programs from processed to scratch-cooked foods. In partnership with the Chef Ann Foundation, it offers a multi-year journey that includes workshops, assessments, and collaborative planning, with a value of nearly $250,000 per district. Eligible districts must demonstrate commitment to fresh, whole foods, leadership support, and self-operated food service.

The St. Joseph Foundation Grants, administered by the Community Foundation for the Central Savannah River Area, aim to support nonprofit organizations addressing the evolving healthcare needs of individuals in the CSRA. With a commitment to enhancing community health, the foundation prioritizes initiatives related to health service education, medical uninsured populations, and hospice care. Grants are awarded based on a competitive process, ensuring that resources effectively meet local challenges.

The Pérez CreARTE Grants, funded by the Jorge M. Pérez Family Foundation, aim to enhance South Florida's vibrant arts scene. With over $1.5 million available, the program supports Miami-Dade organizations focusing on arts access, education, and artist fellowships. Grants range from $100,000 to $250,000 over two years, prioritizing innovative proposals that promote arts equity and community engagement. This initiative seeks to cultivate local talent and ensure access to diverse artistic experiences for all residents.

Provider Capacity Grants for Rural and Underserved Communities: Round Four

The Department of Human Services (DHS) Grants, Equity, Access, and Research (GEAR) Division (STATE) has the authority to enter into grant contracts that will increase the number and capacity of Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) providers in rural and or serving rural or underserved communities pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 256.01, subdivision 2(a)(6). This grant opportunity is funded through the Minnesota Legislature Laws of Chapter 61 - MN Laws Section 59. PROVIDER CAPACITY GRANTS FOR RURAL AND UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES. Grant applicant represents that it is duly qualified and willing to perform the services set forth in this grant application to the satisfaction of STATE.   

Funding Requirements

The primary goals of this funding are to reduce disparities, increase access, and advance equity in the availability and delivery of Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) across Minnesota. Successful capacity-building proposals must strengthen and enhance HCBS, with a particular focus on expanding existing HCBS programs’ access in rural and underserved communities. Applicants are required to clearly describe how the proposed funding will be used to build capacity, improve access, and enhance the delivery of HCBS. Proposals must also demonstrate compliance with all applicable HCBS licensing requirements and operational standards.

Grant funds will be awarded competitively to organizations that serve Medical Assistance (MA) recipients who are eligible for Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), that are enhancing/expanding existing services to serving MA recipients eligible for HCBS. Funds must be used by organizations that currently serve MA recipients eligible for HCBS. Only organizations currently licensed and enrolled in MHCP are eligible to apply for this grant funding.  

The Domanica Foundation Grant provides funding to IRS-qualified charitable 501(c)(3) organizations in San Diego and Denver. Established in 1994, the foundation focuses on social services addressing hunger, homelessness, healthcare for the uninsured, and scholarships for non-traditional students. While first-time recipients typically receive between $1,000 and $5,000, there is no set application schedule. Proposal summaries can be submitted at any time for consideration by the board.

About Us

The American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine (AACPDM) is an Academy of over 1,100 health professionals dedicated to advancing the health and well-being of all individuals with cerebral palsy and other childhood-onset disabilities. AACPDM is like no other professional society! The “teamwork” mindset of our members solidifies a worldwide network that provides the most effective outcomes for patients. We are pediatricians, neurologists, surgeons, rehabilitators, therapists, nurses, special educators, engineers, and scientists.

AACPDM Mentored Research Grant 

A key part of the AACPDM mission is to foster innovative research as well as its dissemination and implementation. One way the Academy promotes research is through the annual Research Grant Program.

AACPDM Research Grants provide support to bring together investigators from diverse geographical locations to obtain pilot data, statistical consultation and develop a multi-center research study plan.

AACPDM is excited to accept research grant applications that align with the Academy's mission to support a collaborative multidisciplinary community that provides robust scientific education, fosters innovative research, and advocates for equitable access to evidence-based care.

Research grant funding supports high-quality clinical research projects/programs. The award may be used to fund planning for a project or to complete a small research project.

Ent Credit Union's YES Grants program supports youth-focused nonprofit organizations in Colorado, having awarded over $1.8 million since 2000. In 2022 alone, $200,000 was distributed to 74 grant recipients from over 160 applications. The program aims to enhance community support for children by providing essential resources such as shelter, food, and educational programs. Selection is made by a committee of Ent team members, ensuring a diverse representation in the decision-making process.

The Edson Foundation Grant, offered by the Pikes Peak Community Foundation, champions educational initiatives that foster personal growth, innovation, and creativity. It seeks to empower individuals through mentoring and skill development, breaking down barriers to success. This grant is dedicated to nonprofits that support the pursuit of education and pro-social behaviors, ensuring that those determined to overcome challenges have the resources they need to thrive.

The Peoria Diamond Club Grants Program aims to support local youth in achieving educational, athletic, therapeutic, and artistic goals. It provides funding for individual projects, as well as group initiatives by non-profit organizations and schools. Eligible applicants must be local organizations with appropriate tax status, and grants cover direct costs associated with projects. However, funds cannot be used for operating deficits or personal benefits. This program encourages community engagement and youth participation.

The Houston Food Bank's Kids Cafe Grant Program provides year-round access to nutritious meals for children in southeast Texas. This initiative serves low-income youth through after-school, summer, and childcare programs, combating childhood hunger. The program, which includes the School Year and Summer Meal components, distributed over a million meals last year, ensuring healthy food options for children aged 0-18. Partner organizations receive support, resources, and nutrition education to enhance children's well-being.

The Fund for Wild Nature Grant empowers small non-profit organizations in Canada and the U.S. that prioritize the preservation of native species and ecosystems. With a biocentric approach, this grant supports innovative initiatives combating environmental degradation. Organizations must be tax-exempt and can only submit one proposal annually. Grants do not exceed $3,000, ensuring funding is directed to impactful projects addressing ecological issues often overlooked. Join the Fund in investing in the future of wild nature!

The Central Pennsylvania Food Bank's Youth Programs address child hunger, with initiatives like School Pantries, Kids Cafés, BackPack programs, and Summer Meals. These programs provide nutritious food to food-insecure children and families, ensuring they have access to healthy meals during school breaks and throughout the year. With over 1.2 million pounds of food distributed annually, these efforts support thousands of households, fostering both nutritional and educational development for children in central Pennsylvania.

The Sitka Legacy Foundation Competitive Grant Program, an initiative of The Alaska Community Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life for residents of Sitka and surrounding rural communities. The program supports a diverse range of projects focusing on health and wellness, education, arts and culture, and community development. Priority is given to applications that demonstrate collaboration among organizations and have the potential for broad community impact, ultimately fostering a stronger, more connected community.

The ACA Grants in Biodiversity program supports graduate student research in Alberta, focusing on biodiversity, conservation biology, and ecology. Funded by the Alberta Conservation Association, it has awarded over $5 million to 567 students since its inception. The program aims to enhance knowledge of Alberta's flora and fauna, promote conservation biologists, and fund research directly tied to Alberta's ecosystems. Grants are typically around $11,000 and cover a two-year period, encouraging innovative studies in various biological fields.

About Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation

Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) emerged from the front yard lemonade stand of 4- year-old Alexandra “Alex” Scott, who was fighting cancer and wanted to raise money to find cures for all children with cancer. Her spirit and determination inspired others to support her cause, and when she passed away at the age of 8, she had raised $1 million. Since then, the Foundation bearing her name has evolved into a national fundraising movement. Today, ALSF is one of the leading funders of pediatric cancer research in the U.S. and Canada, funding research projects and providing programs to families affected by childhood cancer. ALSF is one of the only childhood cancer research organizations that has been given the NCI peer-reviewed funder designation for rigorous selection of research grants. The mission of ALSF is to change the lives of children with cancer through funding impactful research, raising awareness, supporting families, and empowering everyone to help cure childhood cancer.

Bio-Therapeutic Impact Award

The Bio-Therapeutic Impact Award accelerates the development of clinical trials for promising biologic approaches to treating childhood cancer. These approaches include, but are not limited to, immunotherapy, gene therapy and small molecules. The award, intended for investigators who are initiating clinical trials, totals the maximum of $1.8 million awarded over three years.

The Scott R. MacKenzie Foundation offers grants to support innovative genetic research aimed at advancing cures for diseases like cancer, diabetes, lung, and heart diseases. Only U.S.-based tax-exempt organizations with over five years of operation can apply. The Foundation emphasizes collaboration among research entities to enhance genome sequencing and disease detection. By funding these initiatives, they aim to foster awareness and progress in genetic research for future generations.

The Research Grants on Improving the Use of Research Evidence program aims to enhance the application of research findings for young people aged 5-25 in the U.S. It offers major grants ranging from $100,000 to $1,000,000 over 2-4 years, focusing on impactful studies and capacity-building for researchers. The foundation encourages collaboration among scholars and practitioners to strengthen research practices and evidence use in various settings.