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Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

Get operating grants for nonprofits covering essential expenses, staffing, program delivery, and organizational sustainability.

33,000+

Available grants

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$9.00B total
$6K median

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32,545 Results based on applied filters

Asthma-Safe Homes Program Environmental Services Training Provider Grant

Wisconsin Department of Health Services
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
Up to US $15,000

Asthma-Safe Homes Program Environmental Services Training Provider

This Request for Applications (RFA) is for a partner who can provide training and technical assistance on environmental home assessment, repair, and remediation of asthma trigger sources to organizations delivering the Wisconsin Department of Health Services’ Asthma-Safe Homes Program environmental services. The total available funds is up to $15,000.

Funding opportunity description

The purpose of this request for applications is to seek a partner who can provide training and technical assistance on environmental home assessment, repair, and remediation of asthma trigger sources to organizations delivering the Wisconsin Department of Health Services’ (WI-DHS) Asthma-Safe Homes Program environmental services. This program is a Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Health Services Initiative (HSI) funded through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS). The grant is expected to begin on October 1, 2026.

Asthma Children’s Health & Pediatrics

The Dick Laursen Memorial Scholarship

Texas Agricultural Irrigation Association
Association/Society
Texas
Up to US $4,000
The Dick Laursen Memorial Scholarship, honoring a dedicated irrigation specialist, supports students pursuing agriculture degrees at Texas universities. Open to undergraduates and graduate students, it requires full-time enrollment and a minimum 2.5 GPA. Each recipient can receive up to $500 per semester, totaling a maximum of $4000 over four years. This scholarship aims to foster the next generation of agricultural professionals, reflecting Laursen's legacy in the irrigation industry.
Agriculture Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs +1 more

Buesching-Tucker Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of Whitley County
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Buesching-Tucker Memorial Scholarship

This Scholarship is available to any Whitley County resident. Applicants may be current students, non-traditional students, home-school students, and traditional graduating high school seniors with aspirations for a nursing career or obtaining a degree in music.

In loving memory of our amazing mother, sister, aunt, and “Gummi”, and our dear father, uncle, brother, and “Baba” we establish this scholarship to honor Nancy Buesching Tucker and Robert Lewis Tucker residents of rural Churubusco. Our family invites you to apply hoping that in some small way we can aid you in becoming as gifted a nurse as Nancy was or as entertaining a musician as Bob was.

Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Music Education

First Horizon Foundation Grants (North Carolina and South Carolina)

First Horizon Foundation
Private
Berkeley County, South Carolina, Buncombe County, North Carolina +18 more
Unspecified amount
The First Horizon Foundation, established by First Horizon National Corp., supports communities in Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Since 1993, it has donated over $90 million to enhance lives through grants focused on arts, education, environment, financial literacy, and health services. Eligible nonprofits in various cities can apply, while individuals and certain organizations, such as K-12 schools and political groups, are excluded from funding. This foundation is dedicated to making a positive impact in the regions it serves.
Art & Culture Education Environment +3 more

George S. Severson Agricultural Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Big Horn County, Montana, Carbon County, Montana +21 more
Unspecified amount
The George S. Severson Agricultural Scholarship at Montana State University supports full-time undergraduate students pursuing a degree in agriculture from eligible Montana counties. Applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA or demonstrate strong academic performance as incoming freshmen. This scholarship aims to empower students dedicated to strengthening Montana's agricultural sector and rural communities, with award amounts varying and the potential for renewal based on continued eligibility.
Education - Higher Education College Success / Persistence Agricultural Education

Women’s Council of REALTORS Tri-County NY Scholarship

Northern New York Community Foundation
Private
New York
US $250

Scholarship Rule and Application

Mission/Purpose:

Through this scholarship program, The Women’s Council of Realtors Tri-County NY Network aims to raise the level of knowledge, professionalism and leadership of REALTORS® in the communities we serve.

Real Estate & Housing Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness

Regional Grant Program

Beim Foundation
Private
Cumberland County, Maine, Kalamazoo County, Michigan +8 more
US $5,000 - US $15,000
The Beim Foundation's Regional Grant Program invites proposals from nonprofit organizations serving under-resourced communities in the U.S. for environmental education projects by 2025. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that address ethnic and racial inequality, heal community trauma, and provide culturally competent services. Grant amounts range from $5,000 to $15,000, supporting direct services to participants rather than staff training or curriculum development. Applications are limited to specific geographical areas.
Children’s Mental Health Education - K through 12

Spiegelberg Legacy Fund

Community Foundation for Greater Rome
Private
Floyd County, Georgia
Up to US $9,000

About the Foundation

Building a Better Rome, Together

The Community Foundation for Greater Rome connects generosity with impact, providing grants and funds that serve and uplift our community. We strive to educate, inspire, and create a better tomorrow, acting as a bridge between donors and meaningful projects. We offer a cost-effective, flexible way to support lasting change.

We empower nonprofits by funding local charities and community initiatives. Through endowments and donor-advised funds, we ensure long-term sustainability, allowing gifts to grow and serve future generations. We turn generosity into action, fueling bold ideas and lasting impact.

Founded in April 2015, the Community Foundation was born from a vision of local leaders who saw the need for a sustainable philanthropic resource. Today, we continue to build a stronger, healthier community—while inspiring the next generation of generous givers.

Greater Rome Impact Fund Grant‍ ‍Requirements

The Community Foundation for Greater Rome is moving toward fewer, more substantial grants designed to produce significant and measurable community benefit.

Spiegelberg Legacy Fund:

One grant up to $9,000 for work serving children in need

What We Are Looking For

The Foundation seeks to invest in work that addresses a meaningful community need and creates lasting benefit for individuals, families, or the broader community.

Competitive proposals will demonstrate measurable results and may also:

  • Prevent problems or reduce the need for crisis response
  • Strengthen collaboration among organizations or sectors
  • Promote long-term stability for participants
  • Build nonprofit capacity
  • Leverage additional funding or community resources
  • Provide a clear and compelling benefit to Rome and Floyd County
Child Welfare Services Crisis Intervention Nonprofit Growth & Development

Nora Neal Wolfram Nursing Scholarship Fund

Amarillo Area Foundation
Corporate
Potter County, Texas, Randall County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The Nora Neal Wolfram Nursing Scholarship Fund, administered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports college students pursuing nursing degrees at Amarillo College or West Texas A&M University. Applicants must have been accepted into the nursing program and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.50. This scholarship aims to address healthcare needs in the Texas Panhandle, contributing to the region's nursing workforce and enhancing community health services.
Education - Higher Education Nursing Career / College Preparation

Scott Riola Memorial Scholarship Fund

Amarillo Area Foundation
Corporate
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Scott Riola Memorial Scholarship Fund, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports current flight nurses from the Texas Panhandle's top 26 counties who seek to further their education. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and possess a flight certification (CEN, CCRN, or CFRN). This initiative exemplifies the Foundation's commitment to enhancing healthcare education and ensuring skilled professionals serve the community's needs.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Nursing

Stella Knoebel / Saddlerock Evangelical Presbyterian Church Music Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Stella Knoebel / Saddlerock Evangelical Presbyterian Church Music Scholarship

Stella Knoebel was a significant part of the music department at First Presbyterian Church of Wenatchee (now called Saddlerock Evangelical Presbyterian Church). To honor her legacy, the church established an endowment fund to provide scholarships to students who are members of the congregation and preference will be given to those who plan to continue their education in the field of music.

Education - Higher Education Music Education Presbyterianism

FVI Research and Education Grant

New York Farm Viability Institute
Private
New York
US $15,000 - US $125,000
The FVI Research and Education Grant aims to enhance the economic viability of New York's farms through innovative research and educational outreach. By funding projects that demonstrate clear benefits to farmers, the program seeks to improve farm practices, foster industry innovation, and support the adoption of new technologies. With approximately $1.5 million awarded each round, the initiative emphasizes collaboration with farmers to address production challenges and encourage data-driven decision-making.
Agriculture Agricultural Economics Agricultural Education

CDEC Charitable Requests

Continental Divide Electric Cooperative Inc.
Corporate
Bernalillo County, New Mexico, Cibola County, New Mexico +3 more
Unspecified amount
Continental Divide Electric Cooperative (CDEC) invites charitable requests that benefit local communities served by the co-op. Projects should focus on energy efficiency, education, environmental protection, or economic development. Requests must be submitted 3-4 weeks before the event or need, ensuring they align with CDEC's mission to provide reliable services while supporting those in need. All submissions are subject to review and approval by CDEC management and the board of trustees.
Renewable/Sustainable Energy Education - K through 12 Education - Higher Education +3 more

Kyle R. Long Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Kyle R. Long Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, aims to support graduating seniors from the Medford area who have special educational needs or learning disabilities. Scholarships encourage these students to pursue post-secondary education in any field. In total, over $300,000 will be awarded to more than 200 students across north central Wisconsin, reflecting a commitment to enhancing community life through educational opportunities.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Learning Disabilities +1 more

Greensburg College Club Scholarship Fund

Pittsburgh Foundation
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania
US $1,000
The Greensburg College Club Scholarship Fund, established by the Pittsburgh Foundation, offers scholarships to graduating high school seniors residing in or attending school in the 15601 zip code. The fund also supports children or grandchildren of Greensburg College Club members. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and plan to enroll in an accredited vocational, technical school, or college. This initiative aims to foster educational opportunities and community engagement among local youth.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation College Success / Persistence

Power Up Grant

Gvec Charitable Foundation
Private
Bee County, Texas, Bexar County, Texas +11 more
Unspecified amount
The Power Up Grant, funded by the Gvec Charitable Foundation, transforms small donations into significant community improvements within the GVEC service area. Grants are awarded biannually to nonprofit organizations focusing on education, health care, and community development. Eligible projects must be capital in nature, completed within 12 months, and demonstrate community impact. Priority is given to projects with matching funds and to organizations that have not previously received funding. This initiative fosters growth and support for vital community services.
Education Youth Services Health Care Access & Delivery +4 more

Accelerating Hope: Clinical Trials for Hard-to-Treat Cancers Award

Childrens Cancer Research Fund
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

About Us

Children’s Cancer Research Fund is a national nonprofit dedicated to ending childhood cancer. Our main focus is to support the research of bright scientists across the country whose ideas can make the greatest impact for children fighting cancer. We also fund resources and programs that help kids and families as they navigate the difficult experience of cancer treatment and survivorship.

Since 1981, we’ve contributed over $235 million to research, support programs for children and families, and awareness and education outreach. In 2024, over 81 percent of funds raised went directly to these program services areas.

Children’s Cancer Research Fund (CCRF) is a national nonprofit committed to finding safer, more effective therapies for kids battling cancer. Thanks to donors and partners around the country, we have contributed over $235 million to research, education and awareness, and quality-of-life programs for childhood cancer families. We believe kids deserve safer, less toxic treatments, and we’re committed to funding groundbreaking research and services that enhance healing and care.

In 2026, Children’s Cancer Research Fund will focus our research funding efforts on three main areas:

  • Hard-to-Treat Cancers
  • Survivorship
  • Health Disparities

Accelerating Hope: Clinical Trials for Hard-to-Treat Cancers Award

This funding opportunity is limited to support for clinical trials focused on hard-to-treat cancers, prioritizing Phase 0 – Phase 2 studies. Learn more about eligibility criteria and other key details below.

Cancer / Oncology Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health Children’s Health & Pediatrics

Gerald E. Robinson Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Gerald E. Robinson Memorial Scholarship, established in 2018 by the Community Foundation of NCW, honors the legacy of Gerald "Jerry" Robinson, a devoted animal lover. This scholarship supports college students pursuing veterinary or pre-veterinary programs, ensuring that Jerry's passion for animals continues through future generations. Eligible applicants include high school seniors from Okanogan, Ferry, or Lincoln Counties, with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and experience in animal care.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Veterinary Science & Services +1 more

Healthy After Cancer: Childhood Cancer Survivorship Award

Childrens Cancer Research Fund
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Healthy After Cancer Award, offered by the Children's Cancer Research Fund, focuses on enhancing the quality of life for childhood cancer survivors. This funding supports research aimed at addressing the long-term effects of cancer therapy, prioritizing survivorship interventions over new treatment development. With a commitment to improving health outcomes for young survivors, this award underscores the importance of addressing unique challenges faced by this population.
Cancer / Oncology Children’s Health & Pediatrics Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health

Moor Foundation Grant

Moor Foundation
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Moor Foundation Grant supports organizations that promote public welfare in Texas, emphasizing aid for vulnerable individuals in the El Paso area. This grant focuses on providing resources for food, shelter, and social services, ensuring that those in need receive the necessary support. Applicants are encouraged to align their initiatives with the foundation's mission of enhancing community welfare through religious, charitable, and educational programs.
Art & Culture Education Animal Welfare - General +6 more

Wojdak Scholarship Fund

Pittsburgh Foundation
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania
US $1,500
The Wojdak Scholarship Fund, established by the Pittsburgh Foundation, aims to support graduating high school seniors and current undergraduates from Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. The fund prioritizes students demonstrating financial need and maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0, facilitating their pursuit of education at accredited vocational, technical, or higher education institutions. This initiative exemplifies the Foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities and community development in the region.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation College Success / Persistence

Eliminating Disparities in Childhood Cancers Award

Childrens Cancer Research Fund
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Eliminating Disparities in Childhood Cancers Award, offered by the Children’s Cancer Research Fund, supports innovative research aimed at reducing health disparities in childhood cancer. This initiative prioritizes proposals that identify modifiable risk factors and mechanisms of disparities, emphasizing the importance of improving access to care and treatment outcomes. With over $235 million invested since 1981, CCRF is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for children and families affected by cancer.
Cancer / Oncology Children’s Health & Pediatrics Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health

Accelerating Impact for Hard-to-Treat Cancers Award

Childrens Cancer Research Fund
Private
United States
Up to US $125,000
The Accelerating Impact for Hard-to-Treat Cancers Award, offered by the Children's Cancer Research Fund, focuses on pre-clinical research to enhance treatment outcomes for pediatric cancers that are difficult to treat. The award supports innovative studies, including pilot projects and the development of new technologies. As a nonprofit, CCRF has invested over $235 million in initiatives since 1981, aiming to improve therapies and support for children battling cancer, thereby fostering safer and more effective treatment options.
Cancer / Oncology Children’s Health & Pediatrics Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health

State Apprenticeship Expansion Formula (SAEF) Pre-Apprenticeship Incentive

Wyoming Department of Workforce Services (DWS)
State/Local Government
Wyoming
Up to US $5,000

Wyoming Department of Workforce Services

At the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services (DWS), we are committed to building stronger communities and empowering Wyoming’s workforce. We uphold legal employment practices, enforce labor laws, and promote safe and healthy working conditions. But our impact goes beyond policies—we support businesses, connect people with opportunities, and serve a diverse range of individuals, including employers, employees, job seekers, individuals with disabilities, veterans, families, healthcare providers, and more.

State Apprenticeship Expansion Formula (SAEF)

The SAEF 3 grant provides financial support to approved applicants on a first-come, first-serve basis. Funding is available in two distinct categories: the Sponsor Incentive or the Pre-Apprenticeship Incentive. Eligible applicants may apply for funding from one or both categories; however, each applicant is limited to a single award per category for the lifetime of the grant.

Pre-Apprenticeship Incentive

The Pre-Apprenticeship Incentive is intended to assist employers in building pathways that prepare individuals for successful entry into a RAP. Pre-apprentice programs must include the following five elements: partnership with RAP sponsors; sustainability through partnerships; meaningful training combined with hands-on experience replicating a workplace that does not displace paid employees; access to career and supportive service; and strategies that increase Registered Apprenticeship opportunities for underrepresented or underserved populations facing significant barriers to employment in the Registered Apprenticeships labor force.

Apprenticeship & Internship Programs Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness

Strategic Initiative Grants: Women's Fund Grants

Winston-Salem Foundation
Private
Forsyth County, North Carolina
Up to US $15,000
The Winston-Salem Foundation's Women's Fund Grants focus on enhancing economic security for women and girls in Forsyth County, where less than 7% of philanthropic funding targets their needs. This initiative aims to address systemic barriers, improve educational and health outcomes, and foster overall well-being. With the program's priorities including support for organizations led by women of color and those actively involving their community, the Women's Fund is dedicated to building an inclusive economy and empowering marginalized voices.
Women & Girl Services Women's Rights & Equality Women's Health

Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery Multifamily Housing Accelerator

California Department of Housing and Community Development
State/Local Government
California
US $20,671,840 - US $48,234,525

Background

The purpose of DR-ACCEL is to address projects with funding gaps so they may move into construction. Funding available under this Project Solicitation is derived from CDBG-DR funds. No bond sale or similar financial arrangements are involved.

HUD requires that 80 percent of CDBG-DR funding be spent within areas designated as Most Impacted and Distressed (MID areas). HCD will spend 100 percent of the 2023 DR Allocation, including the mitigation set-aside, in the HUD MID areas for DR-4683. Data sources relating to these MID counties are further explained in the Unmet Needs Assessment section of the Action Plan.

Low-and moderate income (LMI) renters receive the least amount of resources after disasters yet face the largest need for housing. The housing programs were allocated based on data from Disaster Case Manager Providers (DCMPs). Based on data provided by DCMPs, the largest group of LMI populations impacted by DR-4683 are renters, who plan on continuing renting.

The following counties constitute the MID areas for DR-4683: Merced, Santa Cruz, San Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura. Data sources relating to these MID counties are further explained in the Unmet Needs Assessment section of the Action Plan.

One of the prioritization criteria is distance to DR-4683 flooded areas. Projects closest to DR-4683 and not in 100-year flood plain areas will receive more points for this program.

Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Equitable & Affordable Housing

Operating Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Operating grants for nonprofits provide essential funding to support day-to-day operations, staff salaries, and infrastructure. The following grants help organizations build capacity, maintain sustainability, and focus on achieving their mission-driven goals.


Search Instrumentl's Operating Grants Database


Explore 8,000+ funding opportunities for operational support, with $3.34B in resources. Instrumentl helps nonprofits secure essential funding by offering grant discovery tools, deadline tracking, and strategic funder analysis to ensure long-term success.

Grant Insights : Operating Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Quite common — grants in this category are more prevalent than in others.

8,000+ Operating grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

3,000+ Operating grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

3,000+ Operating grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

1,000+ Operating grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

7,000+ Operating grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Youth Services

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Food Access & Hunger

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Operating grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
29.7%
Q2
24.7%
Q3
23.5%
Q4
22.1%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Operating Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $32,500.

$0 $0 Min.
$32,500 $32.5 K Median
$633,837 $633.8 K Average
$188,250,000 $188.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Nonprofits of all types can apply for operating grants, but they are especially useful for organizations needing flexible funding to support the core work of their mission. Operating grants are ideal for nonprofits involved in general population well-being. Specific sectors include healthcare, education, social services, and the arts. Unlike project-based grants that fund specific initiatives, operating grants help with essential costs like staff salaries, rent, and general admin costs. Funders often look for groups with a clear mission who serve a meaningful purpose and have potential for long-term impact.

Based on Instrumentl’s live grant database for operating, grant deadlines are most common in Q1, accounting for 29.7% of all submission dates. The slowest period for new grant opportunities in this category falls in Q4, making it a less competitive time for preparation and strategic planning.

Operating grants exist to help nonprofits function smoothly and grow effectively. The goal is to give organizations the financial means they need to focus on their mission, serve their communities, and support long-term stability. These grants allow nonprofits to improve everyday operations, invest in staff development, and expand programs. Funders want to see nonprofits thrive, not just survive, and providing operational support is a key element to making that happen.

Funding for operating grants varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $0 to a maximum of $188,250,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $32,500, while the average grant awarded is $633,837. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

Operating grants are often funded by private foundations like the popular Ford Foundation. Some government agencies offer grants to strengthen nonprofit infrastructure, especially in sectors like health, education, and social services. Corporate giving programs may also support nonprofits that align with their values and create lasting impact.

To improve the chances of getting operating grants, nonprofits should:

  • Showcase past impact – Use data and real-world examples to prove how your organization has already made a difference.
  • Prove how you align with funder priorities – Research what funders care about and explain how your nonprofit’s mission fits within their goals.
  • Prove financial stability – Funders want to support organizations that can manage funds responsibly and have a solid sustainability plan for the long-term.
  • Emphasize lasting growth – Describe how operating funds will help your nonprofit expand its reach, strengthen programs, and increase its overall impact.

For more advice on finding and winning operating grants, check out our step-by-step guide to general operating grants.

Instrumentl simplifies the process of applying for operating grants by offering an intuitive platform that helps nonprofits discover relevant funding opportunities, track deadlines, and analyze funder-giving patterns. The platform's automated alerts ensure users never miss a deadline, while detailed funder insights help organizations tailor their applications to align with grantor priorities.

Check out how Habitat for Humanity delivered over 200% ROI within just a few weeks.