Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The ON Semiconductor STEAM Education Grant Program aims to support educational institutions and charitable organizations that promote STEAM education for underserved youth. Through initiatives like employee giving and community revitalization, the program seeks to inspire the next generation of innovators. Eligible organizations must operate within onsemi's communities, align with its values, and adhere to local laws. The foundation prioritizes previous grantees who have demonstrated positive outcomes in their educational efforts.

The Alfred I., Catharine J., and Eleanor G. Switzer Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, aims to support local youth residing in Los Osos, CA. This scholarship is open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students, providing them with essential financial assistance to pursue their educational goals. By fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, the foundation encourages students to achieve their dreams and contribute positively to their community.

The Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health is launching a grant initiative to address the healthcare worker shortage in Idaho. This program will provide funding up to $50,000 for public secondary schools and accredited charter schools to start or expand health professions programs. These initiatives aim to equip students with necessary education and certifications before they graduate high school, ultimately strengthening the healthcare workforce in the state.

Louis R. & Helen E. Schwartz FFA Agricultural Scholarship

The Louis R. and Helen E. Schwartz FFA Agricultural Scholarship was established to help prepare Saginaw County students for a future in agriculture or an agriculture-related field. Both Lou and Helen Schwartz were raised on farms in Iowa, so they knew from first-hand experience that farming can be a difficult business. They moved to Frankenmuth when Lou opened area S&H Stores in 1962. The stores were sold to Quality Farm and Fleet in 1982.

Scholarships are awarded to students from Saginaw County, Michigan; Lyon County, Minnesota and Muscatine County, Iowa.

The WAEF Scholarships, supported by the Washington Apple Education Foundation, aim to assist over 300 students with educational funding exceeding $1 million this year. These scholarships primarily benefit students with familial ties to the tree fruit industry, whether through employment or ownership of orchards. The Brian Fisher Memorial scholarship honors a committed innovator, inspiring future leaders in agriculture. Recipients can pursue degrees at accredited institutions, fostering careers in agriculture and related fields.

The WAEF Scholarships, provided by the Washington Apple Education Foundation, support over 300 students this year with more than $1 million in educational awards. These scholarships are primarily for children of employees in the tree fruit industry, particularly those working in specific locations in Washington and Oregon. Recipients can utilize the funds at accredited colleges and universities, including vocational schools, for a variety of degree paths.

The Developing Agency, Identity, and Belonging In Young People Grants aim to empower BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S+, and other marginalized youth by creating safe spaces that foster community and belonging. This funding supports programs focused on developing identity, agency, and resilience, helping young people navigate challenges. Eligible organizations can apply for up to $250,000 over two years, prioritizing culturally responsive and inclusive initiatives that actively involve youth in program development.

MH253024 - Aging in Place Pilot Western New York Region

The Office of Mental Health announces enhanced annual operating funding and up to $2 million in capital funding to develop one (1) Pilot Program for aging adults residing in the CR-SRO level of care.

The funding is for programs in OMH's Western New York Region.

The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) announces the availability of enhanced annual operating funding and up to $2 million in capital funding to develop one (1) Pilot Program for adults who are aging and are currently, or could be with enhanced supports, residing in the CR-SRO level of care. This pilot program will be developed within an existing CR-SRO program already operated by the applicant. The expectation is for an agency to set aside 20-25 existing units within the CR-SRO program to support long-term care services for older adults and medically complex individuals. Agencies with multiple CR-SROs within 30 minutes travel time of each other may propose to utilize these enhanced services across multiple programs.

Capital funds up to $2 million for minor renovations and/or environmental modifications will also be available. It is OMH’s expectation that this pilot program will prioritize 20 to 25 older adults that require enhanced supports to avoid the need for transfer to a higher level of care such as hospitalization, assisted living residences, and/or nursing homes.

OMH intends to fund one (1) existing CR-SRO program, in OMH’s Western New York region, that can demonstrate an ability to provide appropriate need-based housing services for those aging in the community. Applicants also need to demonstrate their ability to undertake minor renovations and/or environmental modifications to eliminate physical barriers impeding aging and medically complex residents and allow them to remain in their current setting. The capital award will not exceed $2 million dollars. Project scope and budget will be developed by the selected applicant in conjunction with the OMH Bureau of Housing Development and Support after further analysis of the project. Capital and enhanced operating funding will be subject to approval by the New York State Division of the Budget (DOB).

Johnson County Community Development Office

The mission of the Johnson County Community Development Office is to secure federal, state and local funding for community development activities, to provide leadership in coordinating these activities, and to ensure continued funding through accountable, efficient and effective use of these funds in serving low- to moderate-income residents in Johnson County.

Community Development Block Grant

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program provides annual grants on a formula basis to states, cities, and counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income persons. The program is authorized under Title 1 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974.

Federal Objective

The primary objective of Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, is to promote “development of viable urban communities, by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment and expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate income.” The Code of Federal Regulations, 24 CFR 570 Subparts A through O, govern how this objective is to be carried out.

Johnson County’s Priority Objectives

The primary goal of the program is to provide federal financial assistance to eligible applicants for the purpose of community development. In pursuit of this goal, the County has identified several strategies in the Plan that applicants should consider when applying. A unit of local government may also use local goals and/or objectives in support of a specific activity for which funds are requested. As stated in the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan, the priority needs are: Non-Housing Community Development; Affordable Housing; and Homelessness.

The CDBG program includes funding for: 1) Housing Projects; 2) Public Facilities Projects 3) Public Services Projects; and 4) Economic Development Projects

Economic Development Projects (Microenterprise Technical Assistance)

Eligible Activities

Once the National Objective is determined then the activity must be an eligible activity as defined at Microenterprise Technical Assistance 24 CFR 570.201(o). Microenterprise development includes activities designed to foster the development, support, and expansion of microenterprise businesses. A microenterprise is defined as a commercial enterprise that has five or fewer employees, one or more of whom owns the enterprise. Eligible microenterprise activities include the provision of:

• Technical assistance, advice, and business services to owners of microenterprises and persons developing microenterprises.

Elias Eade Jr. Scholarship

This scholarship was created in honor and memory of Elias Eade Jr. by his children. Elias Eade Jr. was a lifetime resident of Olean who faithfully served God, his country, his family and the Olean community. Mr. Eade was a graduate of Olean High School and St. Bonaventure University and a member of the Olean business community for many years. Mr. Eade was an entrepreneur, leader and a man of great strength and integrity with an unprecedented work ethic. Candidates must be a graduating senior of a high school in Cattaraugus County with good academic standing and leadership skills and who plan to continue their education at a trade school or 2- or 4-year college or university. Candidates must answer an essay prompt of their choice from the three prompts provided by the fund advisors.

The Creative Connections Grant offers up to $5,000 for artistic projects in Minnesota, encouraging individual artists to promote access to the arts and engage with local communities. Eligible proposals should focus on connecting residents with cultural experiences, integrating artistic engagement with community goals, providing arts learning opportunities, or sharing expressive cultural traditions. This grant aims to enhance the vibrancy of Minnesota’s artistic landscape through diverse and impactful projects.

The WAEF Scholarships, funded by the Washington Apple Education Foundation, support over 300 students with more than $1 million in educational awards this year. Open to Washington state high school seniors and current college students with ties to the tree fruit industry, these scholarships encourage diverse academic pursuits. Recipients may use the funds for accredited two- or four-year colleges and vocational schools, promoting career development in various fields associated with the industry.

The IMH: Advocacy Grants support nonprofit 501(c)3 organizations in Orleans Parish, focusing on increasing public support for mental health services for children and their families. The grants aim to foster community engagement and strengthen the voices of children and caretakers. Additionally, the program encourages policy development for quality services. Note that funding is limited to specific organizations, and capital projects or individual funding requests will not be considered.

The Quinn Alec Hoover Legacy Scouting America Scholarship Fund supports graduating seniors from Scouting America in the Mason Dixon District, encompassing Washington County, MD, and parts of Pennsylvania. Established by the Community Foundation of Washington County, this scholarship honors the legacy of Quinn Alec Hoover, aiming to recognize and assist students who embody the values of scouting. Applications open annually in January, closing by April 1st, promoting community engagement and educational advancement.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services is inviting proposals for a project aimed at enhancing discharge planning for children and young adults with complex service needs. This initiative focuses on creating a technical assistance model that involves assessing current systems, developing standardized frameworks, and implementing support strategies. The goal is to improve transitions from high-acuity inpatient settings to community-based care, ensuring better outcomes for affected youth and their families.

Impact 100 Seattle empowers women to make a difference through collective grantmaking. We focus on transformative change by supporting community-based organizations in the Puget Sound area. Our trust-based philanthropy approach allows us to address root causes of social issues while building strong relationships. With a commitment to funding diverse initiatives in Arts, Health, Education, Environment, and Families, we aim to create lasting impact through our grants, including a major grant of $100,000.

The City of Carlsbad offers Community Arts Grants aimed at fostering artistic and cultural activities in the region. These grants support diverse projects that promote inclusion and participation from various community groups. The funding initiative encourages collaboration among arts organizations, educational institutions, and professional artists to enhance the cultural landscape of Carlsbad. Grants are available to qualified nonprofits and educational entities, with a focus on projects that enrich the community's artistic experience.

The Xander Corso Memorial Scholarship, established by the North Georgia Community Foundation, supports Hall County public high school seniors demonstrating financial need and academic merit. Launched in 2018 in honor of Xander Corso, this scholarship encourages students who exemplify service and character. Recipients must plan to attend an accredited institution within the University System of Georgia, fostering a commitment to education and community engagement.

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Mission Statement​: The Maryland Department of Natural Resources leads the state toward a resilient future by using data, partnerships, and an innovative spirit to improve ecological, social, and economic outcomes for all communities.

​​​Land and Water Conservation Fund Grants

The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) supports projects to improve outdoor recreation through the acquisition of land and development or renovation of recreation amenities. 

LWCF funding must be matched 1:1 with non-federal funds. Acceptable federal funding sources for matching:

• Recreational Trails Fund
• Community Development Block Grants
• Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration

Funding: Reimbursement-based. Funds will be issued after the project has been completed.

Recreation Use: The entire park must be permanently protected and dedicated exclusively to recreational use.

Project Completion Timeline:​ Projects must be completed within 3 years of award date (with possibility of 2-year extension)

This RFP invites proposals that explore the role of maintenance therapy in HER2+ metastatic breast cancer. It aims to enhance understanding of treatment optimization, emphasizing patient quality of life and individualized treatment strategies. Eligible applicants include organizations from the U.S. and select European countries. The focus is on educational projects that improve awareness among healthcare professionals, with a range of formats accepted, including live sessions and online content. Clinical research projects are excluded.

The Book Buddies Program, initiated by The Molina Foundation, aims to combat the lack of access to books in low-income communities. By distributing new, free books to eligible schools and agencies, the program fosters literacy and learning among children. With over 4 million books distributed, it helps create word-rich environments essential for educational success. This initiative supports families in building home libraries and enhances learning spaces, ensuring children have the resources they need to thrive.

The AL Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program provides vital technical and financial assistance to local communities facing imminent threats from natural disasters such as floods and fires. It aims to relieve hazards to life and property without requiring a federal or state disaster declaration. The program enables local sponsors to initiate emergency actions to restore watersheds and ensure that projects meet engineering standards while promoting economic and environmental sustainability.

The Ward 6 DC Main Streets Support Grant Program, managed by the District’s Department of Small and Local Business Development, allocates $350,000 to support DC non-profits enhancing small businesses and community development. Applications open on March 24, 2025, for two funding pools: $100,000 for 5-10 grants ($5,000-$20,000 each) and $250,000 for 1-3 grants ($75,000-$250,000 each). Eligible applicants include only DC-incorporated non-profits.

The Ethnic Studies Course Development grant supports Minnesota districts and charters in creating K-12 ethnic studies courses, as mandated by state legislation. It offers funding up to $50,000 for collaborative projects among schools, district-level initiatives, and individual educators. This initiative aims to enrich curriculum and promote understanding of diverse cultures, fostering a more inclusive educational environment for students across Minnesota.

The Instant Impact Grant, offered by the Greater Poweshiek Community Foundation, provides up to $1,000 to nonprofit organizations and public entities serving Poweshiek County. This program prioritizes innovative and collaborative projects that enhance community wellbeing through cultural, educational, recreational, and health initiatives. Eligible applicants can apply at any time, fostering support for impactful local endeavors.

The Jon Christopher Gauss, Jr. Wrestling Scholarship Fund, established by his parents, supports high school wrestlers pursuing post-secondary education at accredited institutions. This initiative, part of the Community Foundation of Washington County MD, aims to honor Jon's legacy while empowering students to achieve their educational goals. The scholarship enhances community engagement and provides vital financial assistance to promising athletes, ensuring that their dedication to wrestling translates into academic success.

The Choose When grant by Caring for Colorado aims to reduce financial barriers to contraception, ensuring affordable access to reproductive healthcare for all Coloradans, especially young people aged 9-25 and those in rural communities. Launched in 2017, it focuses on eliminating health disparities by funding local clinics to provide long-acting reversible contraception. The initiative emphasizes support for marginalized groups, addressing systemic barriers to care and promoting equitable health outcomes across Colorado.