Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Sybil Harrington Endowment for the Arts, established by the Community Foundation of West Texas, supports diverse artistic and cultural initiatives in Lubbock and Hale counties. Grants range from $500 to $2,500, aimed at start-up funding, operational support, and program initiatives. All recipients must report on fund expenditures within a year. The foundation does not fund annual appeals, political efforts, or grants to individuals, ensuring support for impactful community projects.

The Howard Wolpe Scholarship for African Study, offered by the WMU Department of Political Science, supports undergraduate students with a demonstrated commitment to studying Africa. Applicants must have completed between 60 and 105 credit hours in political science and show academic excellence. The scholarship, valued at up to $1,000, encourages students to engage deeply with African studies, fostering future leaders in this critical area of research.

The A.J. Muste Memorial Institute's Social Justice Fund Grant supports grassroots activist projects in the U.S. and abroad, focusing on those with limited funding access. Prioritizing efforts to dismantle systemic injustices, the grant seeks proposals from organizations lacking mainstream support, especially those addressing issues like immigration violence, racial inequalities, and economic exploitation. The fund emphasizes direct activism and diverse leadership, making it a vital resource for community-driven initiatives in the pursuit of social justice.

The Stackpole-Hall Foundation, a private family foundation, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in Elk County, Pennsylvania. With grants up to $10,000, it supports educational, human service, and community development initiatives. Priority is given to organizations that are tax-exempt under 501(c)(3) and not classified as private foundations. The foundation encourages applicants to contact them prior to submission, ensuring alignment with their mission to improve local welfare.

About Oklahoma CareerTech

For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 62 campuses, 394 PK-12 school districts, 20 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 49 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

Perkins Innovative Grants

Things to know:

• All grants will be on a two-year award cycle (except CTE New Program Grant) to match the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment timeline. To be eligible for awards, recipients will be required to complete and submit their Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.

• Grant recipients will have to show progress towards goal completion by the end of the first year of funding to receive 2nd year funding. These Benchmarks will be developed in collaboration with the Program area innovative grant leads and the recipients.

• Districts can apply for multiple grants. 

There are 8 Innovative Grants that all eligible recipients can apply for: 1) Career Development and Programs of Study; 2) Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships; 3) Supporting CTE Special Populations; 4) High Growth and Emerging Technologies; 5) Innovation in Career Exploration; 6) Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other; 7) CTE New Program; 8) Improving Academic Proficiency

CTE New Program

Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (ODCTE) supports the implementation of quality CTE programs. The purpose of this grant is to provide startup funding for new CTE programs. This would include any program approved within the past three years. Applicants can only receive one grant within the three-year period. This grant will help overcome the cost barrier of implementing CTE programs by providing schools with funding to purchase necessary equipment and resources to increase enrollments and opportunities for students statewide.

The Building and Bridging Connections Funding by The Colorado Health Foundation aims to enhance social capital and foster community-building initiatives that address health challenges and promote health equity. This funding supports collaborations among diverse groups, amplifying underrepresented voices and honoring cultural practices. With no application deadline, grants typically range from $20,000 to $45,000, facilitating projects designed to last between 12 to 24 months, and prioritizing historically marginalized communities.

The Kourdie-Elshafei Scholarship provides $2500 to undergraduate students in Western Michigan University's Political Science Department. Established by alumna Touline Kourdie Elshafei, this scholarship aims to support students with a minimum GPA of 3.15 who demonstrate financial need and have junior or senior status. Preference is given to first-generation college students and those overcoming socio-economic hardships, fostering opportunities for individuals from urban high schools.

The Osage Chapter Service Scholarships, funded by the Association for Women Geoscientists, support undergraduate and graduate students in geosciences. These scholarships of $500 aim to promote the participation of underrepresented groups in the field. Eligible applicants must be AWG members and enrolled in a university within the Osage region. The program encourages outreach and community service while honoring the contributions of Sean S. Thomson to the Osage Chapter.

Overview

PennDOT’s Behavioral Traffic Safety Unit offers traffic safety grants to support local communities and organizations working to make Pennsylvania’s roads safer. Eligible applicants include local governments, universities within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, Pennsylvania state related universities, and nonprofit organizations.

These grants are funded through federal programs administered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) under 23 U.S.C. §402 and §405. Funding follows the federal fiscal year, which runs from October 1 through September 30.

Grant opportunities focus on proven, data driven strategies that address the most urgent traffic safety challenges across the Commonwealth. Available funds are allocated using formulas based on crash data to ensure resources are directed where they can make the greatest impact.

The Behavioral Traffic Safety Unit is not permitted to fund equipment only grant requests. All funded projects must include programmatic or behavioral safety components aligned with evidence based countermeasures.

PennDOT Behavioral Highway Safety Grants: Distracted Driving Observational Survey

Informs countermeasure strategies for distracted driving safety by providing statewide data related to cell phone use while driving. Analysis of the collected data will be shared with local and statewide partners to inform existing messaging, programming, and enforcement.

What Is Kiwanis?

Kiwanis is a global service organization of volunteers committed to improving the lives of children—one community at a time.  Our members take action every day by:

• Sheltering the homeless and supporting families in crisis
• Feeding the hungry and organizing food drives
• Mentoring at-risk youth and empowering young leaders
• Raising funds for pediatric medical research and care
• And much more—all focused on helping children in our communities thrive

All Indiana Kiwanians make up the membership of the Kiwanis Indiana Foundation, Inc. (aka the Indiana District Foundation) The Foundation has 501(c)(3) status.

Grants

The Foundation makes grants to increase the capacity of Indiana District of Kiwanis clubs. It also supports Indiana District of Kiwanis supported projects to respond effectively to the needs of the citizens of the state. In general, the Foundation prefers funding for projects that further the Objects of Kiwanis.

A club may only receive a grant once every two years.

The Foundation’s goal is to provide effective assistance to as many Indiana Kiwanis Clubs as possible. Grant awards will be available from $250- $4,000 and require matching funds on a sliding scale, depending on the amount of therequest. Grants will be awarded on a first come, first served basis until the total funds available for the fiscal year are depleted. All clubs will be notified if/when that happens.

What We Fund

It is anticipated that projects receiving grants will involve one of the following categories:

• Youth
• Elderly
• Civic and Community Development
• Health and Human Services

Litchfield Area Community Foundation

Litchfield Area Community Foundation began in 2002. Since its inception, the foundation has raised over $100,000 for our permanent endowment fund. An endowment fund is like a ‘savings account’—donations are invested and never spent. Only income generated from the original gift is used for community reinvestment. The endowment fund ensures a permanent, stable revenue stream for the benefit of our community.

LACF concentrates on the overall well-being of the community. We have partnered with parents to realize the construction of new park equipment. We have collaborated with community members to beautify Litchfield through the planting of trees. Through future grants, we anticipate working with concerned citizens to enhance our community.

Litchfield Area Community Foundation Grant

One of the principle purposes of the Litchfield Area Community Foundation is to promote and facilitate the distribution of charitable donations to our area. Since 2008, many lives were enriched thanks to $20,000 in grants being distributed in our area.

All projects should be focused on improving the Litchfield area. Primary focus of giving:

• Arts, culture, humanities
• Health and safety
• At-risk youth
• Youth development
• Community Club/Organizations

The Inspire Giving Fund Grant, established by the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, aims to promote civic engagement and philanthropy in the Sacramento area. It supports organizations focusing on Community and Economic Development and Affordable Housing, offering monetary contributions up to $10,000. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)3 status, a strong operational history, and a commitment to enhancing local quality of life. This initiative encourages collaborative efforts for a vibrant community by funding impactful projects.

The Gertrude C. Fawley Foundation, established in 1997, supports various charitable causes including education, health services, arts, and religion. It primarily funds organizations exempt under IRS code 501(c)(3) within Lake County, Florida. The foundation offers support for operating, program, and project needs, reflecting Ms. Fawley's commitment to charity and community enhancement.

The Dubuque Racing Association Core Grants aim to enhance community betterment through non-profit initiatives focused on population growth and tourism. These grants prioritize capacity building alongside material purchases, supporting organizations that align with the mission to foster economic vitality in the tri-state area. Eligible applicants include non-profits with specific IRS designations, emphasizing projects that strengthen local resources and improve quality of life while adhering to strict funding guidelines.

The Creative Support Funding: Community Arts Grants by New Mexico Arts offers financial assistance to arts organizations for various program activities, including performing, visual, literary, media, multidisciplinary, and interdisciplinary arts. This funding aims to support small-budget organizations, helping them to continue, strengthen, and expand their programs and engage with the community. Notably, organizations funded in FY2026 can apply for a renewal in FY2027, fostering continuity in arts programming.

The Jack Catlin Memorial is a prestigious award offered by Montana State University aimed at supporting students dedicated to the veterinary profession. It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated commitment through academic excellence and community service. Eligible candidates include high school graduates from Montana or those enrolled in pre-veterinary programs, with awards varying based on merit. This initiative underscores the importance of fostering future veterinarians who contribute positively to the field and the community.

Monarch Watch offers a Free Milkweeds Grant for habitat restoration projects aimed at supporting the monarch butterfly population. The program provides free milkweed plugs to schools and educational non-profits that demonstrate clear educational goals, long-term maintenance plans, and adequate space for the plants. With over 730,000 milkweeds distributed since 2015, this initiative plays a vital role in restoring habitats along key migration routes in the eastern and western U.S.

About Us

The Community Foundation of Mendocino County is a county-wide nonprofit organization that administers permanent charitable funds established through gifts and bequests from individuals, families, businesses, and other organizations.

American Youth Services Grant Program

The American Youth Services Fund was established in 2022 to continue the legacy of the American Youth Services nonprofit organization. The primary purpose is to make grants to Mendocino County nonprofits that encourage personal enrichment exploration among disadvantaged youth and adults within group experiences in the natural environment.

This Fund awards grants two times per year, during the spring and the fall. 

Priority will be given to projects that: 

• Encourage personal enrichment exploration among disadvantaged youth and young adults within group experiences in the natural outdoor environment.
• Expose youth to the beautiful and unique environment and ecosystems of Mendocino County to deepen their connection to the larger Earth/ Creation.
• Encourage personal faith/ spiritual exploration.
• Inspire stewardship of our lands and oceans.
• Foster a sense of individual well-being, a sense of shared welfare, and communal participation.

Projects will also be considered that:

• Enable Mendocino County youth to travel to experience the natural world and culture outside of Mendocino County for similar purposes.
• Support programs and organizations on the Mendocino Coast that improve the quality of life for youth to help all to develop a healthy mindset and to make positive contributions to the world. 

The Dick Anderson Construction Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana high school graduates pursuing degrees in Civil Engineering or Construction Engineering Technology. This scholarship emphasizes student success and community engagement, aligning with MSU's mission to foster innovation and prepare graduates for meaningful contributions. Award amounts vary, and the scholarship may be renewable for past recipients who meet all qualifications and reapply annually.

Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development

The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) partners with state, federal, local and nonprofit housing and community and economic development initiatives. DHCD programs strive to maintain the vibrancy of communities throughout the Commonwealth and include providing universal broadband access, investing in economic development initiatives, promulgating the statewide building and fire regulations, preserving the affordability and efficiency of Virginia’s homes and buildings, addressing homelessness, reducing eviction rates across the state and fostering innovative solutions to create affordable housing. DHCD invests over $350 million annually in addition to $2 billion in federal recovery programs as a partner to Virginia communities to create safe, affordable and prosperous communities to live, work and do business in Virginia.

DHCD is committed to creating safe, affordable and prosperous communities to live, work and do business in Virginia.

Community Business Launch Grant

The Community Business Launch (CBL) is a place-based entrepreneurial development strategy that fills a critical mass of vacant storefronts with expansion or start-up ventures. Local CBL programs train entrepreneurs, creatives, and small business owners about business planning practices. This training culminates in a group of finalists pitching their ideas to a panel of judges, with winners receiving grant funding and support services from the community to kick-start their new venture. While only a limited number of entrepreneurs may win the business competitions, the CBL gives rise to many budding entrepreneurs that have been prepared through the CBL grant to create or expand successful businesses.  

A CBL program generates excitement while educating the community business opportunities for local people. A CBL grant from DHCD leverages other financial and in-kind resources to prepare multiple entrepreneurs to operate successful businesses, whether they win or lose the pitch competition. Additionally, many CBL grantees replicate the CBL strategy repeatedly without DHCD resources to amplify job and business creation. When preceded by thorough market analysis and relentless outreach, then followed by ongoing business retention efforts, a CBL program is a key building block in a coordinated, comprehensive, and sustainable entrepreneurial eco-system of community-based entrepreneurs and small businesses at all stages of life. 

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on supporting organizations that empower communities through basic needs, income creation, and stable housing. By investing in health and job opportunities, they aim to enhance economic mobility for low- and moderate-income families. Their partnerships target vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable access to resources that foster community vitality and resilience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of stable housing as a foundation for personal and communal growth.

The FCP Nonprofit Growth Grants support organizational development for nonprofits in Bucks County, offering up to $10,000. Eligible organizations must address behavioral health and human service needs for children and families. Grants are available throughout the year, and applicants may also apply for tuition assistance for the MS in Nonprofit Leadership. This initiative fosters partnerships to enhance nonprofit capabilities and promote community well-being.

The FCP Nonprofit Growth Grants support the professional development of nonprofits in Bucks County, offering grants up to $10,000. These funds assist organizations in areas such as board training, financial planning, and strategic planning. Additionally, tuition assistance for master's and certificate programs in nonprofit leadership is available. Grants aim to enhance the capacity of nonprofits serving the behavioral health and human service needs of children and families, fostering effective community partnerships.

The Andrea Wagner Women in Science Scholarship Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, offers financial support to female students in the region pursuing degrees in math, chemistry, physics, engineering, or biology. To qualify, applicants must be residents of the Berkshire Taconic region, enrolled as freshmen, sophomores, or juniors at a four-year college, and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.3. This initiative aims to empower women in science and foster educational advancement.

South Carolina Department of Commerce

From site selection to infrastructure improvement, we are here to help grow new and existing businesses.

SC Commerce promotes economic opportunity for individuals and businesses through initiatives like workforce training. As a national leader in foreign direct investment, the state extends its global reach with offices in Europe and Asia that help existing companies in developing export markets.

South Carolina Community Development Block Grant

The South Carolina Community Development Block Grant (“State CDBG Program”) is designed to aid units of general local government in improving economic opportunities and meeting community revitalization needs, particularly for persons of low- and moderate-income. The State CDBG Program has been funded through the State since 1982 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (Title I). 

CDBG Program Goals and Outcomes

The SC Department of Commerce seeks to improve the well-being of all South Carolinians in a manner that supports and enhances a high quality of life. The State CDBG Program supports the agency’s efforts to strengthen communities through revitalization and improvement of neighborhoods, public infrastructure, and the local economy. 

The three overarching goals of the HUD CDBG program are to provide decent housing, economic opportunities and a suitable living environment. Within the context of these goals, each project funded by the State must also meet one of three outcomes identified by HUD: affordability, accessibility, or sustainability. 

Local Match/Leveraging

CDBG projects are expected to leverage other public and private investments and serve as a catalyst for future development.

There must be a 10% match of the total CDBG request, unless otherwise approved, which can come from a variety of committed sources including other grants, loans, waiver of fees, public or private investments, and documented volunteer or in-kind contributions. Matching funds must be immediately available for the project at the time of application. 

Community Development Block Grant Categories

There are three broad grant program categories: Community Development, Business Development, and Regional Planning. The Community Development Program is further broken down into several subcategories to address infrastructure, community facilities, and local priorities.

Business Development Programs

This program provides financial resources for local governments to pursue opportunities that create new jobs, retain existing employment, stimulate private investment, and revitalize or facilitate the competitiveness of the local economy. Funding will be prioritized based on the following order:

New or expanding businesses tied to job creation

Area economic development activities not associated with job creation

New or expanding local businesses that provide essential goods and services in predominately LMI communities 

The Charles W. Kuhne Foundation Grant aims to enhance the well-being of the residents of Fort Wayne and Allen County, Indiana. Established in memory of Charles W. Kuhne, who was a lawyer and philanthropist, the foundation supports various program areas including education, health, and human services. Eligible organizations must be recognized as 501(c)(3) entities, with a preference for initiatives that address public welfare and promote charitable causes.

The Marshfield Utilities Scholarship, offered by the Marshfield Area Community Foundation, aims to support local students who are customers of Marshfield Utilities. This scholarship is specifically for those pursuing studies in engineering, natural sciences, or vocational fields. Preference is given to full-time university students, reinforcing the Foundation's mission of enhancing education and community well-being in the Marshfield area.