Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Harrison County Community Foundation (HCCF) offers grants to support projects that enhance arts and culture, community development, education, environmental stewardship, and health services in Harrison County. Established in 2012, HCCF aims to create impactful opportunities for all residents. Grants typically range from $500 to $5,000, with larger amounts considered based on project potential. Nonprofits, schools, and public organizations are encouraged to apply for funding to address pressing community needs.

The Hudson Valley Organizing Grants provide essential support for grassroots organizations in New York's Hudson Valley, promoting systemic change through community-driven efforts. With a focus on low-income communities and communities of color, these grants empower organizations to mobilize and advocate for justice. Award amounts are typically around $20,000 and are determined by the Hudson Valley Community Funding Committee based on alignment with funding priorities. Applications are open to both new and established groups, ensuring a diverse range of voices in the movement.

The Sapelo Foundation Grants focus on enhancing social justice in Georgia, particularly for marginalized communities. Their mission includes fostering civic power and environmental protection through effective policies and practices. They prioritize voting rights and criminal justice reforms, aiming to empower more Georgians to engage in civic advocacy. Grants are typically awarded to 501(c)3 organizations committed to serving areas outside metro Atlanta, ensuring broader participation and equitable access to resources.

IDNR Mission Statement

To manage, conserve and protect Illinois' natural, recreational and cultural resources, further the public's understanding and appreciation of those resources, and promote the education, science and public safety of Illinois' natural resources for present and future generations.

Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant

Purpose

Projects must emphasize student/youth involvement with planning, development and maintenance and increase the educational and wildlife habitat values of the site. The applicant must be prepared to maintain and commit resources to the project for at least five years. The project must be implemented on school grounds or another public place (for example, a park or nature center/forest preserve district land). Illinois Conservation Foundation sites and Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) sites do not qualify for funding. Admission fees cannot be charged to obtain access to the site. Individual student projects will not be funded.

The Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant includes three options: Option One; Option Two; and Option Three.

Option Three: For Chicago and East St. Louis metro areas schools that have no soil on their school grounds for planting

Option Three is for schools only in Chicago and East St. Louis metro areas that have no soil on their school grounds in which to plant. Other schools may be considered if they have no soil around their school. This is not for every school to use instead of putting plants in the ground. It is creating a container garden at your school to have native species onsite. It must be developed following the criteria stated in the instructions for the application form. Schools that choose this option have additional reporting that needs to be done as they will be part of a scientific study. You must check with us before you apply for this grant. 

Funding requests will include containers, insulation, soil, plants, and mulch.

This grant will pay for the purchase of simple gardening tools such as child- and adult-sized gloves, spades, shovels, rakes, trowels and hoes. Tool costs shall not account for more than 25% of the total project cost.

The Guernsey County Foundation Grant, in partnership with the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, supports projects that enhance community and individual potential across various sectors. With funding requests ranging from $500 to $10,000, applicants from nonprofits, schools, and public organizations can address needs in arts, education, economic development, environmental stewardship, and health services. This initiative aims to empower residents of Guernsey County by fostering innovative solutions and community engagement.

The Bryan A. Champion Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Bryan A. Champion, a dedicated nurseryman and leader in the landscape industry. Established by his peers, this scholarship aims to support deserving horticultural students who demonstrate a passion for the field. Candidates must be enrolled in an accredited program, maintain good academic standing, and have a minimum GPA. Preference is given to those intending to work in the green industry after graduation.

Women’s Found­­ation for the State of Arizona

The Women’s Found­­ation for the State of Arizona (WFSA) innovates to create social, political, and economic change that achieves equity for women and girls of all identities through our integrated framework of research, advocacy, grantmaking, and innovative programmatic solutions.

We fund organizations providing direct support to women and girls and we go beyond the check. Grantees receive flexible funding, technical assistance, and opportunities to grow their impact without compromising their missions.

Ember Grants 

Fueling Emerging and Under-Resourced Organizations.

Ember grants provide flexible funding to grassroots groups doing critical, community-rooted work. 

Designed to meet organizations where they are, ember supports emerging leaders and smaller organizations building more just and resilient systems across Arizona. 

Ember Includes: 

• Flexible funding with minimal barriers 
• Capacity-building and technical support 
• Opportunities for peer connection and collaboration 

Ember recognizes that sustainable impact requires more than funding alone. It requires trust, relationships, and support. 

The Statewide Community Re-grants Program, managed by the CREATE Council on the Arts, aims to enhance community engagement in Columbia, Greene, and Schoharie Counties through public funding. Grants ranging from $1,500 to $7,500 support diverse artistic projects that foster creativity, cultural diversity, and inclusion. This initiative encourages local participation and collaboration between artists and community organizations, ensuring that projects are accessible to the public and contribute to the cultural vitality of the region.

The Gallia Community Foundation Grant, established by the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, aims to enhance the quality of life in Gallia County through philanthropic initiatives. Grants, ranging from $500 to $5,000, support projects in five key areas: arts and culture, economic development, education, environmental stewardship, and health services. This funding prioritizes individuals and organizations that address community needs and foster local potential, ensuring sustainable resources for the future.

About Us

The Simons Foundation’s mission is to advance the frontiers of research in mathematics and the basic sciences.

Since its founding in 1994 by Jim and Marilyn Simons, the foundation has been a champion of basic science through grant funding, support for research and public engagement. We believe in asking big questions and providing sustained support to researchers working to unravel the mysteries of the universe.

Through our work we make space for scientific discovery.

Junior Fellows of the Simons Society of Fellows

The Simons Foundation invites nominations for Junior Fellows of the Simons Society of Fellows. This year’s call is open to any individual who meets the nominator eligibility requirements outlined below and is interested in nominating a candidate for a Junior Fellowship.

Junior Fellows are outstanding young scientists who receive support from the foundation for up to 3 years to conduct independent research at an NYC educational institution. The foundation requires Junior Fellows to attend weekly lectures and dinners at the foundation during the academic year, as well as an annual conference and a 4-day weekend retreat.

Funding

Award Amount: In 2027/28, a Junior Fellow will receive a stipend of $102,799, funds for fringe benefits based on the host institutional fringe rate, as well as a $10,000 research allowance. The Junior Fellow’s New York City host institution will receive an additional 20 percent in indirect costs. A Junior Fellow’s salary support automatically increases by three percent each funding year.

Award Duration: Junior Fellows are appointed for up to three years. A fellowship must begin on July 1, August 1 or September 1, 2027.

Number of Awards: In 2027, the foundation expects to appoint up to 15 Junior Fellows.

Allowable Expenses

The research funds provided to the Junior Fellow may be used to support expenses in the following categories:

• Scientific domestic or international travel by the Junior Fellow.
• Small equipment, supplies and other expenses directly benefiting the Junior Fellow’s research.
• Expenses related to travel or hosting scientific visitors and collaborators.

About Us

Your centralized resource for business and community development information and programs from the Iowa Economic Development Authority and the Iowa Finance Authority.

Art Project Grant for Organizations Program Guidelines - Creative Abundance Special Round

The Art Project Grant for Organizations program is administered by the Iowa Arts Council, which exists within the Iowa Economic Development Authority (the IEDA). Through the program, the IEDA provides financial incentives to nonprofit and tax-exempt organizations; schools; local, county, state and federal governmental agencies; and tribal councils to support a wide variety of arts-related activities.

The program is funded through an appropriation by the Iowa Legislature to the IEDA and a grant by the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. Applicants must comply with federal requirements, including but not limited to 2 CFR Part 200.

The Ethel S. Abbott Charitable Foundation aims to continue the charitable legacy of Ethel S. Abbott by supporting 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities in Nebraska. The foundation focuses on diverse areas such as education, the arts, and human services, evaluating each grant request for its potential community impact. Organizations meeting eligibility criteria are encouraged to submit a grant interest form via their website to seek funding and make a difference in the lives of Nebraskans.

The Rebecca Hart Swartzlander Trust Grant supports public, charitable, educational, and welfare organizations in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. Established by Mrs. Swartzlander's Last Will, the trust prioritizes grants for local initiatives, particularly those that benefit community welfare, with an average grant size ranging from $3,000 to $7,000. Organizations must qualify as 501(c)(3) entities and be located in Doylestown to be eligible for funding. Preference is often given to women's organizations engaged in community betterment.

The Ragan and King Charitable Foundation, established in memory of Mrs. Carolyn King Ragan, provides grants to Georgia Baptist or Southern Baptist affiliated entities for religious, charitable, or educational initiatives. The foundation reviews applications annually in September, distributing funds to eligible organizations that qualify under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, ensuring support for meaningful community projects.

The Karim Thomas Ziyad Memorial Engineering Scholarship Fund supports students from Washington County or nearby areas pursuing a career in engineering, especially in Mechanical Engineering. Established in memory of Karim Thomas Ziyad, this scholarship aims to empower deserving students to achieve their educational goals. The fund is part of the Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland, which offers numerous scholarships to enhance educational opportunities for local students.

The Artist in Business Leadership (ABL) Fellowship supports Native artists in building sustainable art-centered businesses. This yearlong program provides $10,000 in funding along with professional development and networking opportunities. Eligible applicants must be 18 years or older, reside in the U.S., and be enrolled in or have lineage from a federally recognized tribe. The fellowship aims to empower artists to thrive within their communities while honoring their cultural heritage.

IDNR Mission Statement

To manage, conserve and protect Illinois' natural, recreational and cultural resources, further the public's understanding and appreciation of those resources, and promote the education, science and public safety of Illinois' natural resources for present and future generations.

Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant

Purpose

Projects must emphasize student/youth involvement with planning, development and maintenance and increase the educational and wildlife habitat values of the site. The applicant must be prepared to maintain and commit resources to the project for at least five years. The project must be implemented on school grounds or another public place (for example, a park or nature center/forest preserve district land). Illinois Conservation Foundation sites and Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) sites do not qualify for funding. Admission fees cannot be charged to obtain access to the site. Individual student projects will not be funded.

The Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant includes three options: Option One; Option Two; and Option Three.

Option Two

Option Two is for all other projects. Habitat projects may include, but not be limited to, the following activities:

• enhance or establish and maintain a schoolyard prairie plot,
• butterfly garden,
• rain garden,
• wetland,
• native tree arboretum,
• nesting platform or watering station;
• design and build a bird feeder or feeding station; or
• construct and install bat roosting boxes.

Vegetable gardens are not eligible for this grant.

This grant will pay for the purchase of simple gardening tools such as child- and adult-sized gloves, spades, shovels, rakes, trowels and hoes. Tool costs shall not account for more than 25% of the total project cost.

The Live & Give Longmont Grants Program, managed by the Longmont Community Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations with operational budgets under $1 million. Grants aim to enhance the lives of residents in the St. Vrain Valley, focusing on areas like Animals, Arts, Civic engagement, Education, Environment, and Health. This initiative fosters community involvement by promoting board diversity and term limits, ensuring inclusive participation from local stakeholders.

About ODL

Preserving Oklahoma’s history, supporting efficient governance and ensuring libraries remain vibrant community hubs

Mission and History

The Oklahoma Department of Libraries (ODL) serves as the State Library, State Archives, and Records Administrator for Oklahoma state government, overseeing public library development, statewide resource sharing, and programs such as literacy initiatives. The agency ensures every Oklahoman has access to innovative, high-quality library and information resources while fostering literacy skills essential for success in the workforce, educational attainment, active participation in democracy, and the achievement of individual life goals

Library Grants and Funding Opportunities

Oklahoma Department of Libraries offers information about grant opportunities, application resources, and funding support to help libraries serve their communities.

Health Literacy Grants

Public libraries and literacy organizations play an important role in helping Oklahomans access reliable health information and wellness resources. The FFY26 Health Literacy Grant supports projects that encourage healthy living, improve health literacy, and promote community wellness.

Administered by the Oklahoma Department of Libraries, this Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA)-funded grant supports Story Trails, fitness and wellness activities, healthy eating programs, information sharing, and other innovative health literacy projects.

Health Literacy

To help build thriving communities, ODL offers opportunities to develop personal and organizational health literacy. As trusted community anchor institutions, libraries are vital in supporting the community’s abilities to access, to understand, and to utilize health information, which directly impacts health outcomes.

Health Literacy Grant

ODL's Health Literacy grant provides libraries and literacy organizations across the state opportunities to develop and sustain programming that encourages healthy behaviors and information-gathering for members of their communities. Through funded programs, participants can increase their physical activity, grow and prepare healthy meals, learn about various health topics, and more--the possibilities are as numerous as local librarians' imaginations are wide!

The Newton B. Shingleton Trust Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for residents in Winchester, Virginia, through charitable contributions. Established in 1975, it supports organizations meeting 501(c)(3) requirements across various sectors, including arts, education, health, and community services. With an annual giving of approximately $120,000, the trust prioritizes initiatives that directly benefit the local community and surrounding areas, ensuring sustainable improvements in wellbeing.

The Jackson County Community Foundation Grant supports projects that enhance the community's development across five key areas: arts and culture, economic development, education, environmental stewardship, and health services. Grants range from $500 to $5,000, with larger requests considered for impactful initiatives. This grant is open to nonprofits, schools, and public organizations working to benefit Jackson County residents, fostering local pride and sustainability for future generations.

The Mansfield City Schools Fine Arts Fund supports K-12 teachers by providing grants aimed at enhancing arts education within the Mansfield City Schools. With an annual budget ranging from $1,500 to $3,000, the fund encourages grant requests for field experiences at local cultural resources and for art integration programs that align with educational standards. This initiative aims to enrich students' exposure to the arts and foster creativity in the classroom.

The Monroe County Community Foundation Grant supports projects that enhance community well-being in Monroe County, Ohio. Established in 2014, it encourages initiatives across five key areas: arts and culture, community development, education, environmental stewardship, and health services. Grants range from $500 to $2,500, with larger requests considered based on impact. Nonprofits, schools, and public organizations are eligible to apply, fostering local growth and addressing pressing community needs.

The Hocking County Community Fund, initiated by the Logan-Hocking School District, aims to enhance community investment through grants and scholarships. It supports projects across five key areas: arts, economic development, education, environmental stewardship, and health services. This fund invites applications from nonprofits and organizations benefiting Hocking County residents, with funding requests ranging from $500 to $5,000, allowing for larger amounts based on impact potential. Join us in fostering growth and opportunity in Hocking County.

The Dennis Foundation Grant, established in 1966 by Benjamin Dennis, Jr., supports a variety of charitable causes in central Virginia, particularly in Richmond. The foundation focuses on education, health, and human services, providing grants ranging from $2,000 to $7,500. With an average annual giving of $70,000 and about 10 grants awarded each year, it aims to enhance community welfare without geographical limitations, promoting a lasting legacy of philanthropy.

The Sordoni Family Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations focused on arts, culture, education, health, and environmental stewardship, primarily in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Established from a legacy foundation in 1946, it emphasizes collaboration with local entities and does not provide individual grants. The foundation aims to foster community engagement and development through its funding initiatives.

The Rupert Dunklau Foundation Grant supports organizations with 501(c)(3) status, focusing on Lutheran Higher Education, Health and Human Care, and Faith Strengthening. Since its establishment in 1968, the foundation has aimed to provide financial resources to ministries within the Lutheran tradition, particularly in Nebraska and surrounding states. Eligible projects must align with the foundation's mission to promote the welfare of mankind through educational and health initiatives.