Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The CANVAS Be The Good Fund Grant is an employee-driven initiative by Canvas, Inc. aimed at supporting impactful programs focused on women, children, veterans, and education. This grant reflects Canvas's commitment to enriching communities through generous contributions from team members. With biannual cycles in March and September, the fund promotes meaningful change, empowering employees to do good in various ways. It embodies the mission of creating positive impacts and fostering community engagement.

The ELCA World Hunger Program offers Domestic Hunger Grants to support U.S. and Caribbean congregations in addressing food security and other local issues. With a maximum award of $10,000 per year for three years, these grants prioritize organizations with strong community ties and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. The program aims to break the cycle of poverty and hunger through collaborative efforts and advocacy for systemic change.

The Robert F. Schumann Foundation Grant supports organizations dedicated to environmental sustainability, education, and the arts. Founded by Robert F. Schumann, an environmentalist, the foundation aims to enhance the quality of life for both humans and animals. It prioritizes projects that would not have been pursued without its assistance, particularly in ornithology and open space habitats. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt to apply, ensuring a focus on impactful community initiatives.

The GKFF Accelerator Grants aim to enhance funding access for historically disadvantaged nonprofits in Tulsa. By providing financial and technical support, the program empowers community leaders to implement effective solutions addressing local needs. Grants are available on a rolling basis, with quarterly reviews in February, May, August, and November. This initiative aligns with the George Kaiser Family Foundation's mission to ensure equitable opportunities for all Tulsans, fostering community engagement and improving overall well-being.

The Fred & Jean Allegretti Foundation Grant offers financial assistance to charitable organizations focused on improving the quality of life for children, adults, the elderly, and animals. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) entities that comply with reporting laws and operate in Colorado, Florida, or New Mexico. The foundation seeks proposals that reflect its humanitarian mission, prioritizing dignity and support through education, medical treatment, and the arts.

The Impact Las Vegas Grant Program provides substantial funding to nonprofits in Southern Nevada, focusing on initiatives that enhance culture, education, environment, family, and health. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and serve the local community. Grants support projects with clear goals and measurable outcomes, while excluding funding for operational costs, individual grants, or political activities. The program aims to empower local nonprofits to create significant positive change within the community.

The Organizational Resilience Capacity Building Grants by Act For Alexandria aim to bolster organizations that support the youth workforce in Alexandria. These grants, focused on enhancing organizational effectiveness, will fund initiatives such as leadership coaching, succession planning, and professional development. By empowering nonprofits, ACT seeks to create equitable pathways to success for young people, ensuring they have access to fulfilling careers and meaningful opportunities that contribute to their overall economic well-being.

The Kelly Family Foundation Grant is dedicated to supporting nonprofit organizations that foster education, mentoring, welfare, and the arts for youth in the Greater Boston area. Grants focus on operations that provide direct services and require organizations to demonstrate effective use of funds. The foundation emphasizes accountability and encourages multi-year plans, while ensuring that no annual grant exceeds 5% of its total budget. This initiative aims to uplift the community by investing in impactful programs.

The Faye L. and William L. Cowden Charitable Foundation, established in 1988, aims to support various charitable purposes, particularly for children. Following the founders' deaths, the foundation continues to provide grants to 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on health care, education, and the welfare of children and animals, as well as environmental preservation. With a commitment to impactful giving, it ensures that financial assistance is directed towards qualified organizations in Texas.

The Massachusetts Urban Agriculture Grant Program aims to enhance food security and access to fresh produce in urban areas. It supports commercial projects for the production and marketing of food, focusing on long-term investments in infrastructure and innovative farming techniques. The program prioritizes initiatives that address soil quality, land acquisition, and community engagement, ensuring that urban farming benefits low to moderate-income neighborhoods and fosters local economic development.

The CDBG Housing Assistance Program, managed by the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development, offers funding for low- and moderate-income housing projects. Eligible applicants include local governments and counties in Maine, with a maximum grant amount of $1,000,000. A 20% cash match is required for applicants, and administrative costs cannot exceed 15% of the grant. This program aims to improve housing options through rehabilitation and conversion of properties.

Overview

The Lake County Community Foundation asserts that the quality of life of Lake County can be improved through an earnest effort to bring organizations, government, businesses, corporations and civic leaders together to establish a common vision, adopt a shared set of measurable goals and pursue evidence-based activities that reinforce one another’s objectives as a means of addressing the most pressing needs of our community.

The Foundation envisions a county-wide health and human services delivery system that is robust and thriving with a network of providers capable of achieving the greatest impact on the urgent needs of the most vulnerable residents of the county.

The Foundation’s approach combines strategic community leadership with intentional organizational investment—ultimately leading to a more streamlined coordination of countywide efforts.

Growing Communities Priority Area

Two-Year Grants support nonprofit organizations in achieving strategic growth, program stability, and long-term planning by providing greater financial predictability and strengthening organizational capacity for deeper community impact. Funding prioritizes initiatives that promote equitable access in Lake County to affordable nutritious food, comprehensive health care including mental health services, safe and affordable housing, education and workforce opportunities, and immigration and legal support services. Preference is given to grassroots, community-based organizations that address barriers to accessing essential services and benefits, and to organizations serving unmet basic needs as the sole provider in their area.

About Alaska DOT&PF

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities designs, constructs, operates and maintains the state’s transportation infrastructure systems, buildings, and other facilities used by Alaskans and visitors.

Alaska Community Transit

We support Alaska's communities—urban and rural—by ensuring safe, efficient, and accessible transit services for everyone, including transit-dependent populations.

Human Service Transportation Grant 

Purpose

The purpose of the Human Service Transportation Grant is to provide transportation services that meet the special needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities and Alaska Mental Health Trust Beneficiaries for whom public transportation services are unavailable, insufficient, or inappropriate. The Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities, Community Transit Office (ACT) uses a combination of federal Section 5310 and Alaska Mental Health Trust funds to provide awards to nonprofit organizations or public bodies that certify that no nonprofit organization or association is readily available in an area to provide service.

The Ella C. Rownd Trust, managed by the Cedar Falls Community Foundation, provides funding for capital projects benefiting Cedar Falls residents. With $13,000 available this year, nonprofit organizations and schools in Cedar Falls, IA, are encouraged to apply annually for these grants. Established in 1976, the Cedar Falls Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing community well-being through private philanthropy.

Overview

The Lake County Community Foundation asserts that the quality of life of Lake County can be improved through an earnest effort to bring organizations, government, businesses, corporations and civic leaders together to establish a common vision, adopt a shared set of measurable goals and pursue evidence-based activities that reinforce one another’s objectives as a means of addressing the most pressing needs of our community.

The Foundation envisions a county-wide health and human services delivery system that is robust and thriving with a network of providers capable of achieving the greatest impact on the urgent needs of the most vulnerable residents of the county.

The Foundation’s approach combines strategic community leadership with intentional organizational investment—ultimately leading to a more streamlined coordination of countywide efforts.

Nonprofit Capacity Building Priority Area Grants

The Lake County Community Foundation (LCCF) is relaunching its Capacity Building priority area for Spring 2026 to support nonprofits in strengthening their internal operations and organizational effectiveness. This funding is designed to enhance nonprofit sustainability, efficiency, and long-term growth so organizations are better equipped to serve the community. Capacity Building grants support one-time organizational costs and expenses; recurring salaries, fees, or ongoing operational costs are not eligible. Organizations that receive a Capacity Building grant may still apply for and receive funding under LCCF’s Growing Communities priority area, as participation in one does not preclude funding from the other.

The Martha Sue Parr Trust Grant supports charitable, nonprofit organizations defined by section 501(c)3 of the IRS tax code, focusing on programs that benefit young people, religious organizations, and hospitals in Texas. Applications are restricted to nonprofit entities, as individuals are not eligible to submit. For more information, please refer to the foundation finder provided by JPMorgan. This grant aims to foster community support and development through targeted funding.

The Josh Dubin Fellowship, launched in January 2022 by the Shawn Carter Foundation, is a seven-week paid program designed for five exceptional students interested in the legal field. This immersive experience includes mentorship from legal professionals, direct involvement in case analysis, and off-site visits to courtrooms. Fellows not only gain invaluable insights into legal practices but also receive additional scholarship support for their educational pursuits, empowering them to overcome socio-economic barriers and achieve their dreams.

The AARP Community Challenge Grant in Connecticut funds projects aimed at enhancing community livability. This initiative supports quick-action projects that improve public spaces, transportation, and housing, particularly benefiting residents aged 50 and older. With a focus on accessibility and connectivity, the grant encourages local organizations to implement innovative solutions that foster inclusive environments. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and municipalities committed to making impactful changes in their communities, aligning with AARP’s mission to support aging populations.

The Elsa Heisel Sule Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations in the Greater Cincinnati area, focusing on education, health, arts, and community welfare. Established in 2004, the foundation prioritizes projects that enhance community well-being, ensuring grants are awarded to nonprofits with operating budgets under $10 million. Organizations must apply annually and adhere to specific eligibility criteria, including geographical and operational restrictions. The foundation aims to empower local initiatives that promote positive societal impact.

The Nunnally Foundation Grant supports various charitable activities in the Greater Richmond, Virginia area, with funding typically ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. Established in 1970, the foundation primarily assists organizations that qualify as 501(c)(3) entities. Preference is often given to initiatives related to healthcare, education, human services, religion, and arts and culture, highlighting the foundation's commitment to enhancing community welfare and quality of life.

The Woodmont Christian Church Outreach Ministry Grant aims to support organizations that serve those in need within the community. With a mission to grow disciples of Christ, the church allocates over 22% of its budget to non-profits, assisting more than 50 organizations. The grant focuses on addressing various needs such as food, shelter, health, education, and support for vulnerable populations, embodying the church's commitment to service and outreach.

Takeda's Corporate Giving program focuses on enhancing community well-being in the U.S. by supporting initiatives in two key areas: Food is Health and Building STEM Foundations. Through employee engagement and partnerships, Takeda aims to provide access to nutritious food and foster STEM education, addressing social disparities and empowering future innovators. This commitment reflects Takeda's mission of better health and a brighter future for all.

The Tippecanoe Educational Endowment Fund Grant supports Tipp City Schools by providing funding for enrichment programs aimed at enhancing academic excellence, fine arts, and general activities. Established in 1999, this grant awards up to $2,500 annually to classroom teachers and employees to promote various educational endeavors, including scientific inquiry, literacy, and leadership. The goal is to foster a culture of kindness and conflict resolution within the school district.

The Oregon Sea Grant provides funding up to $2,500 for conferences and activities that engage stakeholders in discussions relevant to OSG's strategic goals. Applications are accepted on an as-needed basis, with a review period of 60 days. Priority will be given to projects that reflect the breadth of the OSG program and align with its non-advocacy philosophy, ensuring that activities benefit OSG personnel and advance its mission.

The Crystal Charity Ball Grant has been supporting children's charities in Dallas County since 1952, distributing over $191 million to 160 beneficiaries. In the past year, the committee raised $7,093,665 to aid seven local organizations, providing children with hope and resources for a healthier future. This initiative thrives on the generosity of donors and community members, making a significant impact on the lives of children in need.

The Mathers Charitable Foundation Grant focuses on advancing basic scientific research with the potential to transform human health. It supports institutions and investigators in fields such as immunology, cancer biology, and neuroscience while prioritizing impactful, foundational discoveries. The foundation empowers researchers to drive innovative solutions and foster meaningful contributions to science and society. Eligibility includes U.S.-based institutions and principal investigators with equipped labs, while ineligible entities include overseas institutions and private foundations.

About

As the state economic development agency, the Wyoming Business Council leads economic growth in order to build resilient communities and create opportunities for people to thrive.

Community Economic Development Grant

Wyoming Business Council RD Grant

Community Economic Growth Grants can be used for projects that enhance a community’s quality of life through economic development projects. You will need to show that your project will support or enhance the economic opportunities of your stakeholders. Heavier consideration will be given to projects or initiatives that are collaborative on the organization, community, county, or regional level).

This is an Economic Growth Grant. Economic development is creating a vibrant community where people want to live and work through wealth creation. It's also about transforming economies where people have limited resources (think jobs, money, and opportunity) and choices into ones with greater resources and choices.

Economic development improves the quality of life by:

• Creating jobs
• Attracting and retaining businesses
• Increasing tax revenue
• Promoting local industry
• Developing skilled workers
• Improving public infrastructure necessary for many businesses