Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

North Dakota Game and Fish Department

The creation in 1930 of the North Dakota Game and Fish Department was a continuation of efforts to preserve fish and game species in the state. At its inception the enforcement of game and fish laws was the department’s primary conservation tool. Over the years the legislature has increased enforcement authority and assigned regulatory powers to the agency aiding its efforts to preserve fish and wildlife and their habitats.

Advancements in fish and wildlife conservation science have added many other tools essential to the ongoing conservation efforts of the agency and have helped make possible the successful reintroduction of several game and fish species and the preservation of many others in the state. The mission of the North Dakota Game and Fish Department is to protect, conserve and enhance fish and wildlife populations and their habitat for sustained public consumptive and non-consumptive use.

National Archery in the Schools Program Grant

National Archery in the Schools Program is a two-week physical education program designed to teach the fundamentals of archery in grades 4-12. Many schools have also started after-school and summer programs, and formed teams that compete in local, state and national tournaments.

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department is responsible for training and certifying NASP basic archery instructors and overseeing the program in North Dakota. The Department also offers grants to get schools started.

• Standard Startup Archery Kit - Cost: 3,000 (variable)
  • The standard startup archery kit includes 12 Genesis bows, five targets, five dozen arrows, an arrow curtain, a bow rack, and a repair kit.
• Training - Cost: Travel Expenses
  • The NASP Basic Archery Instructor workshop is an eight hour course. There is no charge for the training; however, the school is responsible for any travel charges.
• Annual Expenses - Cost: $200-$500
  • Recurring expenses generally include target face and arrow replacement, painters tape and floor quivers.

The Canada Program Fellowships for Dissertation Research support Harvard graduate students focusing on Canadian topics. Funded by the William Lyon Mackenzie King endowment, the program offers stipends of $10,000 for research or completion stages. It includes a seminar series and opportunities for students to engage with prominent figures in Canadian studies. This initiative encourages a deeper understanding of Canadian socio-political issues within the academic community, fostering valuable scholarly interactions.

The NASGA Research Grants aim to enhance strawberry production sustainability in North America by addressing critical research priorities, including cultivar development, pest management, and production efficiency. Proposals that improve fruit quality, reduce environmental impacts, and align with growers' needs are prioritized. The program welcomes submissions from all researchers, with a focus on innovative solutions that promote economic viability and environmental stewardship in the strawberry industry.

The Changemakers at Work Grants program, offered by the Hutchinson Community Foundation, aims to enhance community connections in Reno County. By funding projects that foster social interaction, environmental engagement, and placemaking, the program seeks to empower local residents as changemakers. With grants ranging from $250 to $5,000, this initiative supports organizations that are 501(c)(3) compliant and promotes inclusivity and community pride.

The Paul and Martha Rees Fund Grant, established by BB&T in 2014, offers unrestricted funding to nonprofit organizations serving the Northern Shenandoah Valley. It aims to address compelling community needs in areas such as education, social services, and health. Eligible applicants include organizations benefiting residents in Winchester and surrounding counties. The fund prioritizes innovative proposals that leverage additional support and foster collaboration among local entities to enhance community quality of life.

Onward! A Legacy Foundation

We are your local community foundation providing scholarships and grants to non-profits. We also collaborate with regional non-profits by investing their endowment funds and earn market rates of return. Onward! currently manages 170+ funds with total assets over $9.7 million. The foundation's guiding principles:

• Invest donor funds responsibly to preserve capital, provide growth, and earn income for grant making.
• Create and encourage methods for philanthropic giving to meet financial goals for a variety of donors.
• Identify, improve, and assist in addressing the needs of the Four Corners' communities.
• Foster understanding and cooperation among diverse cultural and ethnic groups.

Onward! Grant

Onward! A Legacy Foundation, in our dedication to the philanthropic health of Southwest Colorado, is opening our enhancement grant cycle for another year. 20+ years of careful work and dedication has created a foundation where investors can easily and safely make philanthropic donations to investment funds which grow and provide income for non-profit efforts, Onward! continues to enrich the four corners community.

Onward! will consider grant proposals that make significant contributions to the health and quality of life for the residents of Southwest Colorado. This may include but is not limited to programs and projects that contribute towards: social, emotional, or physical well-being, youth, diversity, economic enhancement, civic beautification, arts and culture, leadership development; in order to support any organizations that target the specific needs of our diverse community. 

The M. & A. Seasongood Good Government Grants support 501(c)(3) organizations and professional associations in the Greater Cincinnati area. Focused on promoting good governance, the foundation prioritizes engagement in democracy, public service professionalism, and combating political polarization. These grants aim to enhance accountability, transparency, and civic reform, providing essential funding to initiatives that foster equitable access to voting and encourage civic participation.

The Mid Wisconsin Grants, established under the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, provide funding for nonprofit projects in communities once served by Mid Wisconsin Bank. The grants support initiatives in health, education, and community development. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt entities based in specific Wisconsin locations. Potential applicants are encouraged to discuss their project ideas with grant officers before submission. Note that political or strictly religious purposes are not funded, and prior recipients are ineligible for two years.

The Sustainable Communities Grant Program, funded by Atlantic City Electric and Sustainable Jersey, aims to enhance environmental stewardship in New Jersey. With a total of $35,000 available, the program will award five grants of $5,000 each to municipalities for projects that improve public spaces, such as parks and natural areas. This initiative supports sustainability efforts and empowers communities to create a healthier environment for future generations.

The LRAC Legacy Individual Grants offer up to $6,000 for individual artists in Minnesota's nine-county region, promoting arts access, learning, and cultural heritage. Eligible projects include public art production, artist residencies in schools, performances, educational experiences, workshops, and exhibits. First-time applicants are encouraged to contact LRAC for guidance before applying, ensuring they understand the program's requirements and maximize their chances for funding.

The Helen Pumphrey Denit Charitable Trust Grant aims to support organizations that enhance education, culture, health, and human services, primarily within the Baltimore region. Established in 1988, it prioritizes grants for capital and program support, while general operating support is considered but less favored. Organizations must skip one grant cycle before reapplying. Certain requests, like those for debt reduction or individual support, are not eligible. Special preference is given to specific local institutions.

The Thad G. Gayman Memorial Scholarship Fund honors Thad Gayman, a dedicated automotive technician and Northern York High School alumnus who tragically passed away at age 23. Established to support students in automotive technology, this fund emphasizes academic achievement, financial need, and a commitment to the field. Extra consideration is given to graduates from Northern York High School. This one-time scholarship aims to empower future automotive professionals in honor of Thad's legacy.

The NJAHPERD Jacqueline E. Malaska Mini Grant aims to enhance Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance programs in New Jersey's educational institutions. Offering up to $1000, the grant supports new initiatives or improvements to existing programs, facilitating the purchase of necessary equipment and materials. Eligible applicants must be NJAHPERD members for at least a year and agree to share their project outcomes via presentations or articles, fostering community engagement and program visibility.

The Kirby Event Grants, offered by the Polk County Community Foundation, aim to support free community gatherings that foster social interactions and strengthen local ties. Events funded include entertainment, educational programs, and activities for diverse groups, ensuring inclusivity. Applicants are encouraged to promote healthy living and utilize public spaces. These grants are essential for enhancing community engagement and enriching the lives of residents in the Polk County area, making all events completely free for participants.

The FourEvergreen Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the Louisville community through impactful initiatives in youth development, cancer research, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship. Founded by a committed family, the foundation emphasizes the importance of giving back without seeking personal recognition. By supporting 501(c)(3) organizations that promote empowerment and opportunity, the foundation aims to inspire hope and success for generations to come.

The Cold Noses Foundation Grant aims to support organizations dedicated to the humane treatment of animals, including domestic pets, wildlife, and farm animals. Grants are available to U.S. non-profits and selected international equivalents with an annual income of $200,000 or less. The foundation emphasizes accountability, requiring detailed financial reporting and adherence to ethical standards. Deadlines for applications vary by region, ensuring timely funding for impactful animal welfare projects.

The Zack Smith O.P.O.T.A./Law Enforcement Scholarship, established in honor of Zack Smith by the Muskingum County Community Foundation, supports aspiring law enforcement students from any Ohio county. Zack, known for his passion for hunting and commitment to helping others, inspires applicants who wish to make a difference in their community. Preference is given to those enrolled in O.P.O.T.A. programs and Muskingum County residents, ensuring that Zack's legacy continues to impact future generations.

The F.M., Anne G., and Beverly B. Bistline Foundation Fund, managed by the Idaho Community Foundation, supports arts initiatives in southeastern Idaho. Founded by Beverly Bistline, the fund honors her commitment to the arts and aims to enhance community engagement through educational programs and performances. Grants typically range from $3,000 to $10,000, focusing on both public arts education and opportunities for local artists, thus fostering a vibrant cultural landscape in Bannock, Bingham, Bear Lake, Caribou, Franklin, Oneida, and Power counties.

The Wayne County Community Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations in Wayne County, PA, aiming to support community development in various sectors, including arts, education, and health. Grants are awarded biannually and prioritize projects that address critical community needs and have a proven impact. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations serving local residents, while certain expenses like advertising and routine operating costs are not funded. The Foundation seeks to empower local agencies to become self-sustaining.

The Pottstown Area Health & Wellness Foundation's System Reform Award promotes community impact through collaborative efforts addressing systemic inequities. This grant supports initiatives that drive policy change and foster sustainable outcomes in education, health, and economic opportunities across Western Montgomery County and surrounding areas. Nonprofits and public entities are eligible, focusing on innovative solutions to eliminate barriers and enhance community advocacy. Applications vary based on funding needs, ensuring tailored support for impactful projects.

Stronger Communities

The Digicel Foundation collaborates with local organizations and communities to support and finance sustainable development initiatives.

In Haiti, there is an adage which goes “men anpil chay pa lou" – it means that where there are many hands, the burden is little. With this meaningful proverb in mind, Digicel Foundation recognizes how vital it is to work in concert with local communities to accompany community members towards a better life.

Upon opening its doors in 2007, the Foundation embarked on a mission to assist in the development of these communities. Not long after, both Digicel and the Digicel Foundation began serving thousands of families who lost everything in the floods of Gonaives. From there, the Digicel Foundation began making substantial impressions across Haiti.

Over the last 19 years, more than one million people have been touched by the Foundation’s social investments in diverse projects impacting various sectors including: education and capacity building, special needs, human rights, the environment, water accessibility, sanitation, agriculture, and technology. Because of our partners’ remarkable efforts, adults have learned how to read, Special Olympic athletes earned many medals center stage at the World Games, hundreds of lives were spared from cholera, and thousands of youth gained access to development programs.

The Digicel Foundation Grants Program has already invested in more than 400 projects. With its longstanding partners, and new partners it meets along the way, the Foundation hopes to deliver many more life-changing projects, while bringing countless hands together to lessen life’s burden for the most vulnerable populations.

On April 1, 2026, the Digicel Foundation proudly launched the 10th edition of its Konbit Pou Chanjman campaign.

This milestone edition carries special significance, as it will award ten local organizations with grants of USD 12,000 each, while also funding a flagship project valued at 10,000,000 gourdes to support the implementation of a community initiative in one of the country’s ten departments.

Organizations interested in bringing impactful projects to life are invited to apply for funding in the following areas: education, culture, inclusion, access, livelihoods, and the environment.

The project submission deadline was May 15, 2026, and the evaluation process has now been completed.

The C Spire Wireless Foundation Grant supports STEM education initiatives in Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama. Aimed at 501(c)(3) organizations, it focuses on projects that enhance digital literacy, technology skills, and workforce development. With a commitment to community transformation, the foundation prioritizes local projects that improve tech education and broadband access, creating a stronger future for the region. Applications must be submitted 150 days before the event, with a review period of up to four weeks.

Armstrong County Community Foundation (The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania)

In 1997 Merchants National Bank, an Armstrong County community bank, marked its 100th anniversary. The centennial celebration included a unique expression of gratitude to the community in the form of $100,000 to be used as a seed fund to initiate a community foundation for Armstrong County. The bank challenged the community to keep the principal balance of the endowed funds intact and spend only a portion of the interest earnings to ensure a lasting legacy.

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Richard G. Snyder Family Scholarship

The Richard G. Snyder Family Scholarship for the Fields of Agriculture and the Fields of the Earth and Mineral Sciences was established to provide funds for scholarships for students majoring in the fields of agriculture or the fields of the earth and mineral sciences. 

The Traffic Safety Improvement Program Grant offers funding to enhance traffic safety projects aimed at reducing fatalities and injuries. Eligible applicants include state agencies, local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Key focus areas include preventing crashes from impaired driving, improving pedestrian safety, and enhancing law enforcement capabilities. This reimbursement grant specifically supports initiatives addressing excessive speeds, unsafe driving behaviors, and improving crash investigations, ensuring a comprehensive approach to traffic safety.

The Project Connect: Civic Life & Belonging Grants aim to foster community engagement and connection in Lewis, Mason, and Thurston counties. This pilot program supports initiatives that encourage diverse interactions and strengthen civic life, ultimately creating a healthier community. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and tribal agencies, with projects focusing on public spaces, collaborative art, and community storytelling. The grants prioritize inclusivity and aim to bridge gaps between different community members.

The Amgen Foundation Inc focuses on non-healthcare donations and sponsorships that target humanitarian, social, educational, and community programs. They offer support to organizations outside the U.S. healthcare community, particularly those recognized as tax-exempt public charities. Eligible organizations must serve specific Amgen communities throughout the U.S. This initiative aims to enhance health outcomes and address critical societal needs, thereby reducing the burden of disease and improving lives.

The Youth Philanthropy Council Grant supports young individuals aged 13-19 in Harrison County by funding community service projects. The grant encourages organizations to engage youth through diverse activities like arts, sports, and character-building opportunities, fostering healthy relationships with adults and a sense of community. Priority is given to innovative approaches that actively involve youth, ensuring they have constructive, enjoyable experiences in a safe environment.