Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Wyoming Foundation Grants, established in 1976, aim to enhance the quality of life in Wyoming County through support for cultural, educational, and human service organizations. In 2023, the Foundation identified educational and arts opportunities as its main funding priorities. While initiatives beyond these areas are considered, they are secondary. Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) organizations operating in Wyoming County, ensuring a focused impact on community needs.

The R.J. McElroy Trust, established in 1965 in Waterloo, Iowa, supports educational initiatives for young people. Focusing on nonprofit organizations and governmental entities, the trust offers funding for scholarships, internships, and educational programs primarily in northeastern Iowa counties. With a commitment to youth and education, it aims to continue benefitting deserving individuals, ensuring R.J. McElroy's legacy endures through impactful grants and community engagement.

The Valley Kids Foundation Grant, provided by the Valley of the Sun Active 20-30 Club, supports non-profit organizations dedicated to improving the lives of children in the Valley of the Sun. Since 1988, the Foundation has raised nearly $2.45 million, funding various charitable initiatives that empower youth facing challenges. By fostering community service and leadership among professional women, the Foundation not only enhances personal growth but also makes a significant impact on local children's charities.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5428 - Establish Standardized Guidelines for Embedding O&M Considerations into the Design Process

Grant Information

• To provide provisions that address common, recurring design issues that drive operations and maintenance (O&M) time and material, including but not limited to standardization of spare parts and consumables, support for condition based and predictive and preventive maintenance, and maintain-in-place design strategies.
• To develop standardized design guidance to measurably reduce lifecycle O&M labor hours for municipal water and wastewater treatment facilities, pumping stations, etc., once required process performance and regulatory compliance are achieved.

The Washington County Community Foundation, a part of the East Tennessee Foundation, focuses on enhancing the quality of life for residents through innovative programs. They prioritize projects that promote life literacy among all age groups, from nutrition education to financial decision-making. Grants can reach up to $50,000, supporting initiatives that demonstrate significant community impact and sustainability beyond the funding period. Collaborative proposals involving multiple organizations are especially encouraged.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5427 - Advancing Actionable Climate Resilience Metrics for Water Supply Planning

Grant Information

• Catalog existing performance metrics that consistently drive water utility operational and capital decisions, assess their applicability to support future resilience-based decision making under nonstationary climate conditions, and identify adjustments or alternative metrics needed to support forward-looking, resilience-based decision making for water utilities.
• Determine the appropriate level of climate resilience analysis needed to evaluate and apply climate resilience metrics, with requirements scaled based on metric sensitivity to climate change, decision context, and utility characteristics.
• Develop guidance to integrate climate resilience metrics into planning and decision processes.

The European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA) offers conservation grants up to €30,000 for projects that enhance biodiversity in wild landscapes, excluding North America. Funded projects must protect threatened species or habitats, demonstrate a connection to outdoor enthusiasts, and involve hands-on conservation work. Additionally, these initiatives should support local communities and address climate change issues, ensuring habitats sequester carbon and reduce emissions while promoting sustainable practices.

Madison4Kids Grants aim to enhance the quality of life for children and youth organizations in Greater Madison, WI. With grants not exceeding $1,000 and available quarterly, the initiative supports local youth by funding various needs, such as summer camps, playground equipment, and educational tools. Eligible applicants include individuals aged 17 and under, as well as local groups serving children. The grants foster confidence, health, inspiration, and learning among the youth, ensuring a brighter future.

Tennessee Department of Health

Mission: Protect, promote, and improve the health and well-being of all people in Tennessee.

The Tennessee Department of Health's highly talented and dedicated professionals reflect a standard of performance in its effective and engaging public health efforts and collaborative commitment to providing compassionate service to people in all 95 counties of the state. TDH provides health care and wellness services daily to Tennesseans through a statewide network of 89 rural and six metropolitan county health departments at 117 physical locations.

Healthcare Resiliency Program (HRP): Service Line Expansion & Co-Location

Expands integrated primary, specialty, behavioral, and diagnostic services in sustainable rural models.

The program aims to improve access and quality of health services for rural Tennesseans by facilitating service integration, care collaboration, and sustainability through digital models and value-based care, with emphasis on perinatal, behavioral health, emergency, pediatric, and chronic care coordination services.

Funding may be used for:

• Evidence-based prevention and chronic disease programs
• Behavioral health and substance use treatment
• Rural workforce recruitment and retention
• Training on emerging care technologies
• Telehealth and digital infrastructure improvements
• Innovative care delivery models

Benefits to Rural Tennessee

RHT funding will help Tennessee:

• Strengthen rural hospitals and prevent closures
• Expand access to maternal, behavioral, and chronic care services
• Improve workforce stability in underserved areas
• Modernize rural healthcare technology
• Support innovative care models that improve outcomes

Reimbursement Structure

This is a reimbursement-based grant program:

• Sub-recipients pay costs upfront
• Submit required documentation
• Receive reimbursement after approval

Administrative & Indirect Costs

• Subawardees must follow Tennessee’s approved indirect cost rates
• Administrative costs are capped at 10%

Sea-Changers is a UK charity dedicated to marine conservation, offering one-off grants to charities and not-for-profit organizations. They focus on funding projects that address marine threats, reduce environmental impacts, and enhance knowledge about marine conservation. Their interest lies in grassroots initiatives that foster community involvement and action. The organization encourages projects with clear objectives, start and end dates, and measurable outcomes, ensuring that funding contributes meaningfully to conservation efforts.

The Urban Affairs Grants program by the Charles H. Revson Foundation aims to enhance New York City's livability through innovative projects. Collaborating with civic and cultural institutions, it addresses diverse community needs, focusing on public libraries, affordable housing, and local journalism. The foundation supports registered nonprofits in the U.S. and seeks proposals that foster engaged urban citizenship. For further details, please refer to the FAQs for grant seekers on their website.

The Chambers-Clover Creek Watershed Small Grants Program encourages local nonprofits, schools, and individuals to enhance environmental literacy and improve water quality. By supporting projects like riparian plantings, invasive species removal, and educational initiatives, it aims to foster community involvement in watershed stewardship. Grant funding is available for various collaborative activities, ensuring that projects benefit the Chambers-Clover Creek Watershed and its surrounding environment.

The MH253010 grant from the New York State Office of Mental Health aims to fund the development of community behavioral health crisis response pilot programs in urban, suburban, and rural areas. These programs will prioritize health-led responses, utilizing community experts to support individuals in crisis. The initiative seeks to create trauma-informed, culturally humble approaches that emphasize racial equity and harm reduction, addressing a critical need for effective crisis intervention in New York State.

The BCBSAZ: Mental Health Matters Grant offers funding for Arizona-based organizations focused on improving mental health resources, reducing stigma, and promoting access to care. Eligible applicants include non-profits and academic institutions, with a priority on projects that demonstrate measurable impact and scalability. This invitation-only grant emphasizes the importance of addressing chronic health conditions and health equity, aiming to transform health outcomes in the community.

The Buhl Foundation Grant Program supports initiatives in Southwestern Pennsylvania that enhance community vitality and foster economic development. The foundation prioritizes projects in education, health, and employment, particularly those benefiting Pittsburgh's Northside neighborhoods. By focusing on resident-led initiatives, the foundation aims to empower local communities and ensure sustainable growth. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations, with funding preferences for projects that revitalize neighborhoods and improve access to vital resources.

The Community and Economic Enhancement Grant Program, funded by Proposition 68, aims to bolster Delta communities' economic vitality and heritage. It supports projects in recreation, tourism, historic preservation, and environmental education. This initiative is crucial for enhancing public access to recreational opportunities, thereby fostering a robust economy in the Delta region. By funding diverse projects, the program helps sustain the unique values and cultural richness of the Delta, promoting long-term community benefits.

The PRO 2026-06 Mental Health Wellness Uniting Grant aims to promote mental health wellness for families and youth in Hillsborough County. Approved by the Children's Board of Hillsborough County, this grant focuses on funding services that enhance behavioral support, resource navigation, and social connections. It targets parents of children aged 0-18 and youth aged 11-18, emphasizing collaboration and measurable outcomes. Organizations with expertise in mental health are encouraged to apply.

The Love IV Lawrence Foundation Grant focuses on suicide prevention and reducing stigma around suicidal ideation. It offers funding for projects in the Tampa Bay area that align with its mission. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) designation, make an impact in specified counties, and file a 990 form annually. This grant aims to support innovative approaches to mental health challenges and promote compassionate care among providers.

The Climate, Access, and Resource (CAR) Funding program, administered by the California Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy, provides financial support for projects that enhance climate resilience, community access, and natural resource protection in the Delta region. With a total allocation of over $11 million from the 2021 and 2022 Budget Acts, the program aims to fund initiatives that promote biodiversity, protect food and water security, and improve public health and equity for local communities.

The Teichert Foundation Grant supports organizations in California that enhance community welfare through civic improvement, culture, education, and environmental sustainability. Established by Teichert Construction, the foundation aims to foster a healthier, educated, and more equitable society. Eligible applicants include nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status and public agencies in specified counties. The foundation prioritizes projects that address community needs and demonstrate fiscal responsibility, ultimately striving to create lasting impact and better health for all.

The Charles E. Kubly Foundation Grants focus on improving the lives of those affected by depression through funding mental health projects. They prioritize initiatives that raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support suicide prevention. Grant requests are accepted from not-for-profit organizations providing direct services or educational programs. The foundation prefers projects impacting Wisconsin, with measurable outcomes and specific timelines. However, they do not support research, legislative activities, or ongoing operational costs.

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Grant provides funding between $2,000 and $20,000 for small communities in west central Minnesota to enhance energy efficiency and reduce fossil fuel emissions. Local governments can utilize these funds for climate planning, energy audits, and technical assistance for public facilities. This initiative aims to support sustainable practices and improve energy conservation efforts in communities with populations under 15,000.

The Ohio Department of Health (ODH), Bureau of Maternal, Child, and Family Health announces the availability of competitive grant funds for the administration of the WIC Program in Pike County. The purpose of the WIC Program is to improve the health status and prevent health problems among Ohio’s at-risk women, infants, and children. WIC helps to:

• Provide nutrition and breastfeeding education and counseling to the target population,
• Improve pregnancy outcomes by providing or referring to support services necessary for full term pregnancies,
• Reduce infant mortality by decreasing the incidence of low birth weight,
• Increase breastfeeding rates among newborns, and
• Give infants and children a healthy start in life by providing nutritious food

The Margaret McCartney & R. Parks Williams Foundation, founded in 2001, focuses on supporting organizations for charitable, educational, and religious purposes, particularly in Florida. Funding priorities include vocational rehabilitation for individuals with disabilities, educational scholarships, health and comfort for the elderly, and prevention of cruelty to children. The Foundation does not fund capital improvements but emphasizes project support and general operating costs for eligible organizations.

Rose’s Youth Philanthropists (RYP) empowers youth in Chemung and Southeastern Steuben counties through responsive grantmaking. Funded by the S. Roberts Rose Fund, RYP encourages proposals for projects that involve youth in community needs across arts, education, mentoring, and mental health. The initiative supports diversity, personal responsibility, and civic pride while addressing issues like literacy and home safety. RYP aims to engage youth in meaningful activities that foster creativity and community involvement.

Urban Agriculture

CDA's Urban Agriculture program focuses on supporting agricultural producers in and around Colorado's communities as they work to create local food systems and networks.

The goals of CDA's Urban Ag program are:

• Supporting and uplifting urban producers in providing access to fresh, local agricultural products for their communities
• Connecting urban producers with existing resources
• Conserving natural resources on urban farms

Urban Agriculture Microgrant Program

The purpose of the Urban Agriculture Microgrant Program is to aid Colorado’s agricultural producers in building a more resilient and sustainable food system by supporting and uplifting urban producers in providing access to fresh, local agricultural products for their communities and conserving natural resources on urban farms.

Due to limited funding, the Conservation Services Division has decided to use this microgrant opportunity to concentrate on small scale projects crucial to expanding urban production, implementing conservation practices, educating community members, and addressing other common challenges faced by urban producers.

The Public Policy & Public Health Award by the American Lung Association aims to foster innovative research addressing critical public health issues impacting lung health. This grant, with a maximum award of $50,000 per year for up to two years, supports researchers in various disciplines to evaluate existing policies and propose new ideas. It encourages efforts to improve air quality and tackle lung disease, aligning with the mission of enhancing public health through informed policy-making.