Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The AACF "Difference Maker" Grants provide support for innovative community initiatives in Alexandria. Targeting 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and government entities, the program focuses on education, social services, health, arts, and civic engagement. Grants aim to empower projects that create sustainable positive impacts, foster collaboration, and enhance community well-being. Applications are encouraged for projects that address pressing community challenges and promote diversity and inclusion, thereby ensuring lasting change in the region.

The PMRTC Community Betterment Grant Program by Prairie Meadows supports small to medium projects aimed at enhancing community well-being. Grants range from $100 to $99,999 and target various sectors including arts, education, health, and economic development. This initiative aims to uplift Iowans by funding essential services, creating educational opportunities, and improving access to arts for underserved populations. The program reflects Prairie Meadows' commitment to fostering positive change in Central Iowa communities.

The Jelley Family Foundation Endowment for Children's Education Fund, established in 2013 by Dr. Carl Jelley, supports educational initiatives for children in Eastern Jackson County, Missouri. With an average grant award of $5,000-$8,000, and a maximum of $10,000, the foundation encourages innovative proposals focusing on at-risk youth. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public education institutions, with a new 3-year funding rule starting in 2024 to enhance sustainability in educational projects.

The Wayne C. Kaufmann Charitable Foundation aims to enhance community welfare and support organizations that provide educational and health services, particularly for disadvantaged individuals. Key focus areas include maternal health, K-12 STEM education, mental health for veterans, support for children with Down Syndrome, and addressing violence against women and children. The foundation gives priority to Lutheran-affiliated organizations and encourages projects that empower communities.

The Russell Foundation provides grants aimed at enhancing the development of children and youth into confident and responsible individuals. With a focus on education, character building, health, and intervention, the foundation seeks to support programs that address the holistic needs of young people. Their mission emphasizes fostering a positive environment that promotes growth and development, ensuring that children and youth can achieve their fullest potential, regardless of their socio-economic background.

Oakland Human Services Department

The Oakland Human Services Department exists to make our city a place that works for all. We offer free programs and provide public resources to community organizations that make sure all of our residents can access what they need to be safe, healthy and realize their full potential.

Oakland Fund for Children and Youth

The Oakland Fund for Children and Youth (OFCY) is a cornerstone initiative of the City of Oakland, operating within the Children and Youth Services Division of the Human Services Department. As the city’s largest grantmaking program, OFCY plays a vital role in supporting the well-being and success of Oakland’s children, youth, and families. 

Through strategic funding of community-based organizations, OFCY invests in programs that uplift, empower, and protect Oakland’s most vulnerable populations, ensuring access to critical resources, enriching opportunities, and brighter futures for the next generation.

Mission Statement: We provide strategic funding to support Oakland's children and youth from birth to 21 years of age to become healthy, happy, educated, engaged, powerful and loved community members.

OFCY Request for Proposals (RFP) for Children, Youth, & Family Services

Scope of Services

The City releases the Request for Proposals (RFP) to solicit program proposals from non-profit organizations and public agencies to provide services to children, youth, and their families in Oakland. OFCY will fund programs that are prevention and early intervention oriented.

Programs should be culturally responsive, age-appropriate, and child, youth, and family-centered. Investments are designed to support all children in Oakland, particularly those who experience the greatest disparities in the city.

The OFCY Three-Year Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) outlines how funds should be distributed to meet the four OFCY foundational goals:

• Support the healthy development of young children
• Help children and youth succeed in school and graduate high school
• Prevent and reduce violence, crime and gang involvement among children and youth
• Help youth transition to a productive adulthood 

Eight Funding Strategies were identified to support the four OFCY foundation goals: Strategy 1: Family Resource Centers & Parent Engagement; Strategy 2: Elementary School-Based Expanded Learning; Strategy 3: Middle School-Based Expanded Learning; Strategy 4: Youth Development & Leadership; Strategy 5: Career Access & Employment; Strategy 6: Youth Summer Jobs/Mayor’s Summer Youth Employment Program; Strategy 7: Independent Living; Strategy 8: Placed-Based Innovations for Safety 

Strategy 5: Career Access & Employment

This funding strategy supports employment programming for youth ages 15-21. Programming focuses on connecting youth to job training, employment, and internships. In addition, funded programs should provide wraparound support services to reconnect youth by addressing barriers such as housing instability, immediate financial needs, family, system involvement, and mental health and substance dependency.

About DHHS

Mission

The Utah Department of Health and Human Services will support and serve all individuals and communities throughout Utah. It will do so through effective policy and the operations of an effective and efficient seamless system of services and programs that is centered around the individuals and communities the department serves.

PATH 1.1 Rural Food Infrastructure

The Utah Food Security Grant Program strengthens Utah's food supply chain through strategic investments in agricultural production, processing, storage, distribution, market access, and local food promotion. By supporting grant projects across the food system, from farm to consumer, the program helps expand opportunities for Utah producers, strengthen rural communities, and increase the availability of Utah-grown and Utah-raised food. 

FY27 funding is provided through the Rural Health Transformation Program, opens in a new tab, opens in a new tab in partnership with the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Eligible Projects and Expenses

This grant supports projects that increase the production, processing, storage, distribution, market access, or safe delivery of Utah-grown and Utah-raised food to Utah consumers, with an emphasis in rural Utah. Eligible projects may address needs across the food supply chain. All proposed expenses must directly support an immediate increase in the availability of minimally processed eligible Utah-grown or Utah-raised food in rural Utah. Honey and added-sugar products are not allowable. For detailed eligibility requirements and a full list of allowable and unallowable foods and expenses, please review the Request for Applications (RFA), opens in a new tab, opens in a new tab.

Below is a non-exhaustive list of eligible projects:

Production

Equipment and infrastructure that increase agricultural production or extend the growing season, including:

• tractors, harvesters, tillers, and other farm implements
• high tunnels, greenhouses, and indoor growing systems
• irrigation improvements
• frost protection equipment and supplies

Processing

Equipment that adds value to agricultural products or increases processing capacity, including:

• washing, peeling, slicing, chopping, shucking, pasteurizing, or other processing equipment
• bottling, bagging, labeling, packaging, and packing equipment
• slaughter and meat processing equipment

Distribution

Equipment and technology that improve the movement of food from producers to markets, including:

• refrigerated trucks, vans, or trailers or renovating existing distribution equipment for cold storage
• cold-storage upgrades for existing delivery vehicles
• inventory management and logistics software
• dock levelers and weather seals
• forklifts, pallet jacks, and other material handling equipment
• logistics software to map the most efficient distribution routes, minimizing fuel costs and reducing the time highly perishable food spends in transit
• inventory tracking systems to track the location and distribution status of pallets or bins as they move from storage to the wholesale or retail destination. If you don’t have this system, you are encouraged to apply for it to report on your outcomes. 

Dry and cold storage

Equipment and non-construction facility improvements that preserve product quality and extend shelf life, including:

• Walk-in coolers, freezers, CoolBots, and cold storage systems
• Humidity, ventilation, and HVAC improvements
• Backup generators for cold storage
• Insulated storage bins and containers

Market access

Equipment, technology, and other investments that help producers reach new customers, access new markets, or expand sales capacity, including:

• e-commerce and online sales platforms
• point-of-sale systems
• inventory management, customer ordering, and sales software
• equipment or technology required to meet buyer requirements or enter new markets
• other equipment or technology that increases market access or sales capacity
• certification and Training - Certifications and training that help businesses meet industry standards, comply with buyer or regulatory requirements, or access new markets, including:
• good Agricultural Practices (GAP)
• hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)
• safe Quality Food (SQF)
• other certifications or training that support food safety, regulatory compliance, market access, or business growth
• cooperative marketing initiatives that promote Utah-grown or Utah-raised products and benefit multiple producers or food businesses 

Food Safety

• Equipment and systems that improve food safety and regulatory compliance, including:
• commercial washing and sanitation equipment
• steam-cleaning and sanitation systems
• temperature and humidity monitoring equipment
• other food safety improvements that support safe handling and storage

Minor construction, defined as building modifications or retrofitting that does not expand the existing building footprint, and upgrades to existing equipment may be funded but are subject to additional restrictions and limited available funding. Applicants should only include these costs when they are necessary to support an eligible equipment purchase or project. New and used equipment purchases are not subject to these restrictions.

The Texas Pride Community Foundation (TPCF) offers Community Grants to support historically disadvantaged LGBTQ+ communities in Texas. Grants up to $10,000 are available for non-profits addressing community needs without requiring specific project plans. TPCF prioritizes funding for underserved geographies, people of color, and individuals with disabilities, fostering an inclusive approach to grantmaking. The foundation emphasizes community-driven solutions to systemic injustices, aiming to enhance the safety and well-being of diverse populations.

The Washington Biologists' Field Club (WBFC) Research Awards Competition offers grants to support field research focused on the Mid-Atlantic Region's natural history. This includes studies on biodiversity, ecology, and conservation, with a particular emphasis on organisms from Plummers Island and the Potomac River. The WBFC encourages proposals that enhance understanding of lesser-known taxa and has funded diverse research topics, such as fish behavior and conservation genetics.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The City of Bellingham offers Community/Public Facility Improvement Grants aimed at enhancing facilities that benefit low-income individuals and areas. This funding, totaling approximately $250,000, supports various community projects such as food banks, senior centers, childcare facilities, and community centers. Additional funding may be available for housing initiatives. This program aims to strengthen community infrastructure and improve access to essential services for those in need.

The George F. and Sybil H. Fuller Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Worcester and Boylston, Massachusetts, focusing on youth services for ages 0-22. The foundation welcomes unsolicited proposals for various projects, including capital campaigns, educational programs, and healthcare initiatives. However, it does not fund individuals, endowments, or large multi-year capital grants. Organizations seeking support must align with the foundation's interests in culture, education, and social services.

The TAC Arts Project Support grant provides funding for diverse arts projects that enhance community vitality in urban areas. Eligible applicants, including Tennessee-based nonprofit organizations and local government entities, must match the requested grant amount dollar-for-dollar. Projects may encompass various art forms such as visual arts, music, and theater, promoting engagement and accessibility. Applicants should carefully review ineligibility criteria to ensure their proposals align with the funding philosophy.

The Hanger Foundation's Empowerment Grants aim to positively impact individuals with physical challenges by supporting 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. The foundation focuses on rehabilitation services, athletic programs, and social activities that empower those with limb loss or differences. Grants are available for one year and prioritize projects that engage communities and enhance the quality of life for those in need. Organizations are encouraged to apply for funding that directly supports these goals.

Columbia Bank Foundation

Since 1927, Columbia Bank has evolved alongside the communities and businesses we serve. What began as a single branch in Fair Lawn has grown into a regional bank serving New Jersey, Staten Island and Brooklyn. Throughout that growth, we have remained focused on providing the stability, convenience and service customers expect from a trusted financial partner. Today, we offer the strength and capabilities of a larger financial institution while continuing to provide the personal service and practical financial guidance that have long defined Columbia Bank.

Alongside Columbia Bank’s mission to serve the community, the Columbia Bank Foundation helps support local charitable causes and communities with grants on a sustained basis. Our goal is to make a difference in as many people’s lives as we can and to do our part to help make our communities better, stronger and safer.

Columbia Bank Foundation Micro Grants

The Columbia Bank Foundation is committed to serving the needs of its local communities. The Foundation actively seeks and focuses on innovative programs that provide a measurable impact in the communities that it serves.

Our Micro Grant Program allows organizations that meet one of our focus areas to apply for smaller grants under a streamlined application process. Applications under the Micro Grant Program will be accepted anytime throughout the year for $1,000 to $4,999. These are reviewed internally each month. Our Focus Areas:

• Housing Programs
• Community Investment and Economic Development Programs 
• Financial Literacy and Education 
• Health & Human Services
• Food Insecurity 
• Environmental Sustainability 
• The Arts

The United Way of Southern Chautauqua County Grant offers funding extensions for existing programs through June 2025, focusing on community improvement. Established in 1920, this organization partners with various sectors to enhance quality of life. Their mission mobilizes resources to support individuals and families, aiming for academic success, health independence, and workforce readiness. Grants range from $1,500 to $116,000, with a minimum request of $7,500 for the 2022-2024 cycle. Eligibility is limited to registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits.

The Health Access Heroes Awards, initiated by Sun Life Financial, aims to enhance health access and outcomes for underserved communities. This initiative highlights the crucial connection between oral health and diabetes, focusing on prevention and management. It recognizes impactful nonprofits and unsung heroes who contribute significantly to community health. Selected awardees will receive a $10,000 donation to support their charitable efforts, promoting diabetes awareness, management, and overall health equity.

The Nisqually Watershed Small Grants program, sponsored by Pierce County, aims to improve environmental literacy and enhance water quality in local watersheds. By supporting nonprofit organizations, schools, and individuals, the program encourages projects such as riparian plantings and community clean-ups. Successful initiatives must align with watershed councils' Action Agendas, promoting sustainability and ecological education within the Nisqually River Watershed and beyond.

The ACFM Project Support Program offers funding between $2,000 and $20,000 for special projects that enhance public appreciation of contemporary American concert music and jazz. Eligible applicants include performing ensembles and music organizations with a minimum of two years of programming history. Projects must focus on contemporary works by American composers and can involve live performances, recordings, or educational initiatives. This support is pivotal for fostering innovation and creativity in the American music scene.

Meet The Trustees

The Schrafft Candy Company was founded in Boston as a candy company by William F. Schrafft in 1861 before expanding into the restaurant business with stores in Boston and New York. The famous Schrafft neon sign, constructed in 1928, still sits atop the former candy factory in Charlestown, MA, where it can be seen from Route 93. In 1946, William and his wife Bertha Schrafft established a private charitable foundation which today continues their legacy of giving to improve the lives of the citizens of Boston and Massachusetts, especially its young people.

Schrafft Charitable Trust

Mission

The William and Bertha Schrafft Charitable Trust invests in community-based organizations to expand access to educational and artistic opportunities for young people in Boston and New Bedford.

Vision

We envision a future where every young person in Boston and New Bedford has the opportunity and resources to thrive and achieve their full potential.

How We Invest

Schrafft Charitable Trust is committed to investing in communities that have faced long-standing systemic disinvestment, aiming to increase access to life affirming services and opportunities.

Focus Areas

We value introducing all young people to high quality arts to develop their own skills as well as a passion for the arts. Our arts and culture partners offer direct instruction in the visual and performing arts as well as meaningful exposure to a wide range of arts disciplines.

We believe that nurturing the personal and interpersonal development of young people sets them up to thrive in adulthood. Our youth development partners provide developmental, mentoring, skill-building, and recreational opportunities during out of school hours (after-school, evenings, weekends and summers).

The Butler Family Foundation's Community Grants Program focuses on supporting vulnerable populations, particularly women and children, through two-year grants. These grants, ranging from $30,000 for general operating support to $20,000 for specific projects, prioritize housing services, addiction support, and domestic violence prevention in urban areas of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations with substantial annual budgets.

The PNASH Pilot Project Program at the University of Washington focuses on enhancing agricultural safety and health through innovative research and outreach. The program supports both early-stage and experienced investigators in developing preliminary data, adapting proven tools, and exploring new research directions. With funding of up to $30,000 for pilot projects and an additional $5,000 for education grants, this initiative aims to improve workplace safety for agricultural workers, including those in fishing and forestry. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

The SCAR Fellowship Programme, initiated by the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research in 2002, aims to engage early-career researchers in Antarctic science and foster international collaboration. With over 80 fellowships awarded, the program allows PhD students and recent graduates to work in SCAR member countries, enhancing their research capabilities. This year, 4-5 fellowships will be awarded, each offering up to USD $15,000, with flexibility for remote projects due to ongoing travel challenges.

City of North Las Vegas

Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) 2027-2029

The ESG Program is administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and is authorized by the McKinney-Vento Act and amended by the HEARTH Act. The purpose of the ESG Program is to provide funding to: Engage homeless individuals and families living on the street, rapidly re-house homeless individuals and families, and prevent families and individuals from becoming homeless. ESG funds administered by City of North Las Vegas are being made available to eligible nonprofit organizations that provide critical services to individuals and families that are homeless or at risk of homelessness in Southern Nevada. There will be an emphasis on funding programs that rapid re-house homeless people and projects that assist with homeless prevention for low income households/individuals.

Innovative Pilot Program Grant

This program aims to:

• Support transformative, innovative approaches in rural health communities through cross-sector collaboration.
• Advance integrated care delivery, school-based health, behavioral health partnerships, maternal and child health supports, nutrition-focused initiatives, workforce wellness, and other locally-driven solutions.
• Create sustainable systems that improve health outcomes and address related social determinants of health

The Sheltering Arms Foundation Grant supports high-quality direct-service programs for children aged 0-12, focusing on early childhood and youth development along with advocacy efforts. The foundation aims to diminish opportunity gaps and enhance public commitment to children's well-being in Minnesota. Programs must be culturally appropriate and involve family engagement, ensuring children are socially and emotionally ready for kindergarten and prepared for academic success by 7th grade. Eligible organizations must be non-profits based in Minnesota.

About Pennsylvania Creative Industries

Pennsylvania Creative Industries is the new flagship brand of the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, a state agency. With this name, the Council aims to elevate the creative sector’s visibility, engage broader audiences, foster collaboration across disciplines, and underscore creativity’s vital role in innovation, economic growth, and community vitality.

In 2025, our Council adopted a new strategic plan with the mission to empower, connect, and amplify creatives and creative industries and their contributions to Pennsylvania's communities, economy, and workforce. Our vision is that Pennsylvania becomes the national leader among states for creative communities, talent, and industries.

Spotlight Program

For smaller creative arts organizations and programs—with an average annual revenue of $10,000 to less than $100,000.

Through the Spotlight Program, smaller creative arts organizations receive support to deliver programs, products, and services that advance Pennsylvania Creative Industries' core strategic priorities. 

In addition to providing essential funding, the program fosters a collaborative network for grantees, offering opportunities to connect and share insights through tailored webinars organized by artistic discipline.