Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Ketchikan Community Foundation Grant Program, part of The Alaska Community Foundation, invites applications from 501(c)(3) organizations and equivalents to support community projects in Ketchikan. The new IMPACT GRANT aims to address diverse needs, including health, education, and arts, with funding up to $50,000. Eligible organizations include local nonprofits, faith-based groups, and tribal entities, fostering sustainable community development and lasting impacts.

The 5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities program, funded by the Oregon Department of Transportation, supports public transportation initiatives aimed at enhancing mobility for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This program provides financial assistance for capital projects, purchased services, and preventive maintenance. With a federal funding structure that emphasizes local contributions, it aims to improve accessibility and service delivery in rural and small urban areas, ensuring that these populations have reliable transportation options.

The Oak Advisors Scholarship of Excellence, offered by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, supports southern Beaufort County high school seniors pursuing a major in business, economics, or finance. Established by philanthropic leaders, the scholarship recognizes students for their academic achievements, talents, and community involvement. With a minimum GPA of 3.2 required, this scholarship aims to empower students to make a positive impact in their communities.

The Thomas and LaVerne Howell Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations located in Nueces County, Texas. Grants are distributed annually, with a focus on charities qualified under specific IRS codes. Interested organizations should submit a letter of inquiry before May 1. The foundation is managed by a Board of Directors, and grants are reviewed in late May or early June, with distributions made by November each year.

The Native Entities Grant Program, initiated by NTIA under the Digital Equity Act of 2021, aims to support Indian Tribes, Alaska Native entities, and Native Hawaiian organizations. This program streamlines funding through a unified application for two significant initiatives: the State Digital Equity Capacity Grant and the Digital Equity Competitive Grant. By focusing on reducing administrative burdens, it enhances access to digital resources and equity in underserved communities.

The Gerda Henkel Foundation offers general research grants for projects in the historical humanities, supporting topics related to current issues in a historical context. Funding covers personnel, travel, and materials costs, with a focus on research projects in fields like archaeology, history of art, and historical Islamic studies. Applicants must actively participate in the research and cannot receive both a salary and a scholarship. The grants aim to promote cultural heritage preservation and support young scholars, particularly in crisis regions.

The Boeing Interfaith Fund, established by Boeing South Carolina in 2024, aims to uplift faith-based outreach ministries in Charleston, Dorchester, and Berkeley Counties. Through this initiative, the Coastal Community Foundation supports vital community services such as education, health access, and economic mobility. By fostering collaboration among local organizations, the fund enables impactful outreach efforts that enhance the well-being of residents and address pressing community needs effectively.

Supporting Natural & Cultural Resources

The Hudson River Valley Greenway and the Maurice D. Hinchey Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area provide financial support to municipalities and nonprofit organizations that seek to celebrate, preserve, and enhance the region’s natural and cultural resources.

Compact Community Grants

Compact Community Grants provide financial assistance to municipalities in the Hudson River Valley for local and regional planning projects. Become a Compact Community to Access Funding.

The Hudson River Valley Greenway works to celebrate and protect the region’s ecological, scenic, cultural, historic, agricultural, and recreational treasures.  

HRVG’s McHenry Community Planning Grant Program provides financial assistance for local and regional planning projects in the Greenway Area. To be considered for a Greenway Community Grant or a Compact Community Grant, projects must incorporate Greenway Criteria – Natural and Cultural Resource Protection, Regional Planning, Economic Development, Public Access to the Hudson River, Heritage and Environmental Education.  

A variety of projects are eligible to receive financial assistance from HRVG. All applicants must incorporate Greenway Criteria and clearly demonstrate how the requested project will be completed within the grant contract period. 

Projects Categories:

• Community Planning
• Public Participation
• Open Space Protection
• Cultural Resource Protection
• Natural Resource Protection 
• Economic Development
• Scenic Resource Protection 

The Neighborhood and Rural Preservation Programs in New York support community-based not-for-profit organizations to enhance housing accessibility and quality. With over 40 years of service, these programs provide funding for housing rehabilitation, counseling, and crime prevention initiatives. By leveraging public and private resources, they aim to revitalize neighborhoods, improve economic opportunities, and ensure safe and affordable housing for families across the state. This initiative plays a crucial role in addressing housing needs in various communities.

The Episcopal Faith Communities Grants, offered by the Sheltering Arms Foundation, support Minnesota Episcopal congregations in their initiatives to aid vulnerable children. Grants up to $1,000 are available for projects that enhance the lives of children and youth, including tutoring programs and community outreach efforts. Preference is given to projects with multiple funding sources and those led by parishes that have not previously received funding. This initiative embodies a commitment to serving the community and fostering the well-being of children.

The Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship, established in 1989, offers financial support to students pursuing degrees in horticulture across 16 southeastern states. Administered by the Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship Endowment Fund, this scholarship honors the legacy of Sidney B. Meadows, a dedicated advocate for education in the horticultural industry. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria related to academic standing and residency, with preference given to those intending to work in the field after graduation.

The William Penn Foundation's Responsive, Accountable Local Government RFP aims to enhance civic engagement in Philadelphia by fostering a local government that is more responsive to residents' needs. The initiative seeks to build trust and participation among underrepresented communities, addressing the low voter turnout in local elections. By encouraging collaboration between citizens and government, the Foundation hopes to ensure that the voices of Philadelphians are heard, ultimately leading to better governance and accountability.

The Neighborhood Greening Grants, offered by the Syracuse Parks Conservancy, aim to enhance local community spaces through targeted initiatives. Grants of up to $2000 are available for projects led by local residents, promoting stewardship of parks and recreational areas. Eligible applicants include neighborhood associations and community groups that seek to improve quality of life through environmental enhancements. The program encourages volunteer involvement and aims to strengthen community bonds while fostering sustainable practices.

The Tuscola Community Foundation (TCF) is a non-profit organization founded in 1994, dedicated to enhancing the Tuscola community by administering donations and bequests. TCF supports various programs in education, health, and social services, providing grants to 501(c)(3) organizations. With funding from generous donors, the foundation distributes awards quarterly to eligible charitable organizations, including initiatives for senior citizens through the George J.A. Meister bequest. TCF plays a vital role in fostering community development.

The V. V. Cooke Foundation, established in 1947, provides grants to nonprofit organizations in Metropolitan Louisville, Kentucky. Focused on supporting 501(c)(3) organizations, the foundation prioritizes projects that are religious, educational, civic, or humanitarian in nature. With over seven decades of experience, the foundation, led by executive director Carl Thomas, is dedicated to fostering community success through its grant programs.

The Boxley-Fox Endowment Fund, established by Robert and Genevieve Fox Boxley, supports cultural life and historical preservation in the Northern Shenandoah Valley. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 are available for nonprofit organizations that promote the region's environmental beauty and artistic endeavors. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and serve designated areas. The fund encourages proposals that foster community engagement through diverse artistic projects, ensuring the preservation of the Valley's rich heritage.

About NASA CTSGC

NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium (CTSGC) is a federally mandated grant, internship, and scholarship program that is funded as a part of NASA Education. There are Space Grant Consortia in all 50 states, plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. NASA CTSGC, in an effort to encourage broader participation in NASA research programs, was formed in 1991 by the following post-secondary education institutions: Trinity College, University of Connecticut, and University of New Haven with the University of Hartford as the lead institution.

The CTSGC Purpose

• Inspire the pursuit of careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), especially within groups who have traditionally been underrepresented within the STEM disciplines
• Be the model for STEM-based professional development
• Contribute to the development of Connecticut’s economy and STEM pipeline
• Provide an environment in which all stakeholders understand and contribute to the Consortium’s mission.

Professional Development Scholarships

K-12 Educators are invited to apply to CT Space Grant for scholarships to attend STEM Professional Development programs. If you are applying to STEM-related PD programs and would like to explore funding to support registration or other expenses, we invite you to apply for funding.

The Warren County Community Foundation offers grants of $2,500 or less to support community-focused projects in Warren County, Indiana. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and civic groups. Grant proposals are reviewed monthly, with emphasis on education, human services, recreation, and more. Projects must address significant community needs and utilize local resources. This initiative aims to foster impactful improvements and innovation within the community, while ensuring inclusivity and feasibility.

Department of Energy and Environment

The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is the leading authority on energy and environmental issues affecting the District of Columbia. Using a combination of regulations, outreach, education, and incentives, our agency administers programs and services to fulfill our mission. We work collaboratively with other government agencies, residents, businesses, and institutions to promote environmentally responsible behavior that will lead to a more sustainable urban environment.

Efficient Affordable Resilient Neighborhoods (EARN) Initiative

DOEE seeks eligible entities to develop a deployment plan for neighborhood-scale electrification and clean energy implementation that improves energy efficiency, affordability and resilience outcomes in one or two District neighborhoods. This is a planning grant. It does not fund implementation.

About NASA CTSGC

NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium (CTSGC) is a federally mandated grant, internship, and scholarship program that is funded as a part of NASA Education. There are Space Grant Consortia in all 50 states, plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. NASA CTSGC, in an effort to encourage broader participation in NASA research programs, was formed in 1991 by the following post-secondary education institutions: Trinity College, University of Connecticut, and University of New Haven with the University of Hartford as the lead institution.

The CTSGC Purpose

• Inspire the pursuit of careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), especially within groups who have traditionally been underrepresented within the STEM disciplines
• Be the model for STEM-based professional development
• Contribute to the development of Connecticut’s economy and STEM pipeline
• Provide an environment in which all stakeholders understand and contribute to the Consortium’s mission.

K-12 Program Grant

Are you looking to host a presentation from STEM/Aeronautics/Aerospace experts for your students? Are you looking to create a district-wide design contest in a STEM field? Are you looking for a way to provides supplies to begin a robotics team? NASA CTSGC offers funding to educators for a variety of STEM programs and activities.

Examples of Possible Fundable Projects

• Presentation at school from expert in fields of aeronautics/aerospace and/or STEM
• Create a district-wide design contest in a STEM field
• Supplies to begin a robotics team in a high school
• Funds to begin an InventionX club

The Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation supports arts and culture initiatives in Southeast Michigan, with a focus on strengthening jazz culture and mentorship traditions. They provide funding for professional development opportunities for artists and promote audience engagement through music education. The foundation envisions a vibrant cultural landscape and is committed to making bold investments that address community needs while fostering collaboration among local organizations.

Impact100 Southern Indiana invites nonprofit organizations serving Clark, Floyd, and Harrison counties to apply for a grant aimed at fostering transformational change. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and demonstrate a commitment to community impact. Grants, ranging from $50,000 to $140,000, will be awarded to projects in areas such as arts, education, and health. Applications are due by July 8, 2025, and priority will be given to those addressing under-served populations.

The David G. & Jacqueline M. Braithwaite Scholarship in Chemistry, offered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors from East Texas counties majoring in chemistry. This renewable scholarship emphasizes the importance of education in achieving dreams, with a preference for chemistry or biochemistry majors. Although financial need is not a consideration, students attending any college in the United States can apply, enabling broader opportunities for aspiring chemists.

About

The New Mexico Arts Commission is the advisory body for New Mexico Arts, a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs. The Commission has 15 members appointed by the governor. Commissioners serve three-year terms.

Arts & The Military Mini Grant Program

The Arts and the Military program of New Mexico Arts coordinates and promotes New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs’ (NMDCA) participation in the national Blue Star Museums program offering free admission to the nation’s active-duty military personnel and their families, including National Guard and Reserve. The Blue Star Museums program is a way for the Department of Cultural Affairs to thank our military families for their service and share with them New Mexico’s cultural treasures.   

Mini Grants Opportunities

The $2,500 Mini Grants program assists organizations creating and expanding arts programming for military connected participants via a streamlined granting process. Mini Grants can also be used to build organizational capacity towards the goal of creating and expanding opportunities for veterans and active-duty service members to engage in the arts. Non-Arts organizations and organizations receiving New Mexico Arts funding in other grant programs can also apply for this New Mexico Arts and the Military Grant opportunity.

About NASA CTSGC

NASA Connecticut Space Grant Consortium (CTSGC) is a federally mandated grant, internship, and scholarship program that is funded as a part of NASA Education. There are Space Grant Consortia in all 50 states, plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. NASA CTSGC, in an effort to encourage broader participation in NASA research programs, was formed in 1991 by the following post-secondary education institutions: Trinity College, University of Connecticut, and University of New Haven with the University of Hartford as the lead institution.

The CTSGC Purpose

• Inspire the pursuit of careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), especially within groups who have traditionally been underrepresented within the STEM disciplines
• Be the model for STEM-based professional development
• Contribute to the development of Connecticut’s economy and STEM pipeline
• Provide an environment in which all stakeholders understand and contribute to the Consortium’s mission.

Funding Opportunities for Informal Education Organizations

NASA CTSGC offers funding to museums and other informal education settings to support activities that are focused on aeronautics and aerospace and/or STEM-related activities.

Examples of Possible Fundable Projects

• Presentations at local K-12 schools on the topics of aeronautics/ aerospace and/or STEM
• Create a curriculum/an exhibit focused on NASA initiatives/activities
• Funds to develop an after-school/weekend program for youth focused on STEM

The David G. & Jacqueline M. Braithwaite Scholarship, administered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors from East Texas planning to major in biology, mathematics, engineering, or related fields. This scholarship aims to empower students pursuing careers in medicine, veterinary medicine, or biotechnology. Financial need is not a consideration, and the scholarship is renewable, reflecting a commitment to education and community development in East Texas.

The Carrie S. Orleans Trust Grant supports organizations in Dallas County that provide food and clothing to the needy, promoting inclusivity regardless of race or creed. Established in 1948 by Carrie S. Orleans, the trust distributes funds annually after Thanksgiving, focusing on those with operating budgets under $20 million. This grant ensures timely assistance to vulnerable populations in the community, embodying Mrs. Orleans' philanthropic vision and commitment to her hometown.