Upcoming Webinar
Instrumentl Fall Launch: Your Grant Operating System Has Leveled Up.
Wed, Nov 4 @ 2PM ET

Skip to main content
Main content

Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

Get operating grants for nonprofits covering essential expenses, staffing, program delivery, and organizational sustainability.

33,000+

Available grants

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$9.00B total
$6K median

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

Skip the search.

Get matched with grants that actually fit.

Smart recommendations based on your profile — in minutes.

Find me grants

Filters

32,618 Results based on applied filters

Iowa College and Career Transition Counselor Grant

Iowa Department of Education
State/Local Government
Iowa
Up to US $50,000

FY27 College and Career Transition Counselor Grant Application - Sixth Round

Description of the Project

The start-up grants for the project will help offset the funding needed to start new College and Career Transition Counselor positions in Iowa. College and Career Transition Counselors will work directly through the community college and secondary schools to support college transition and career exploration through targeted connections with students and families during crucial time frames, including preparation, transition to enrollment, and persistence through their postsecondary program. These counselors will work closely with students in grades 11 and 12 in partner high schools throughout the summer after high school graduation and as the first-year advisor for students coming out of this program at the coordinating community college. The positions will be hosted at the community college and partner with at least one school district.

Purpose of the Grant

Financial support to expand the College and Career Transition Counselors across the state is provided by the Department of Education, Bureau of CTE and Post Secondary Readiness. Grant recipients will receive funding for a three-year period of time. 

Career / College Preparation

Evidence-Based Programming (EBP)

Tennessee Department of Finance & Administration
State/Local Government
Tennessee
Up to US $200,000

This program comprises state funds which are available as grants to eligible government agencies operating local jails that house Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) inmates to support the implementation or enhancement of evidence-based programming to improve offender outcomes.

Correctional Systems & Prisons

USA Football- Youth Program Grants- Spring Cycle

USA Football
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The USA Football Grant Program offers funding for youth organizations, middle schools, and girls flag football programs to improve operational standards and enhance athlete experiences. Spring Grants are available to help teams acquire necessary equipment and reduce barriers to play, while Fall Grants assist in future planning and increasing participation. Applications for Spring Grants are accepted until March 17, 2025, supporting the mission of #FootballForAll.
Football

Folk Art Apprenticeship Grant

Utah Division of Art & Museums
State/Local Government
Utah
Up to US $5,000

Folk Art Apprenticeship Grant

Folk Arts Apprenticeships enable qualified individuals to study with traditional mentors of Utah’s ethnic, Native, rural, and occupational communities who demonstrate a commitment to passing on cultural knowledge.

Funding assists accomplished mentors in sharing their skills with one or two apprentices of the same cultural community. Apprentice(s) and Mentor should complete their application together. There may be extenuating circumstances where three or more apprentices could be part of the same program.

Folk Art / Traditional Art Artist Training & Development

Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) Grant: Destination Marketing Development

Wisconsin Department of Tourism
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
US $10,000 - US $39,550

Joint Effort Marketing Grant Program

The Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) Grant Program funds promotions or events for nonprofit organizations. The JEM grant has different categories to fit an organization’s needs. Each category reimburses Wisconsin nonprofit organizations for eligible promotional expenses. 

Destination Marketing

Destination Marketing grants require collaboration among at least three municipalities or communities. There are two types of Destination Marketing grants available for nonprofit organizations:

 This grant supports research and development expenses that investigate how to increase visitor spending across at least three municipalities or communities. The research will help you discover what makes your destination unique and attractive to visitors in order to define a brand and focus a marketing strategy. It can also help you acquire data to measure the impact of the visitor on the local economy. The eligible award amount is $10,000 per municipality, with the maximum award being $39,550, and must not exceed 50% of the overall budget. 

Nonprofit Growth & Development Tourism

Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) Grant: Destination Marketing

Wisconsin Department of Tourism
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
US $10,000 - US $39,550

Joint Effort Marketing Grant Program

The Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) Grant Program funds promotions or events for nonprofit organizations. The JEM grant has different categories to fit an organization’s needs. Each category reimburses Wisconsin nonprofit organizations for eligible promotional expenses. 

Destination Marketing

Destination Marketing grants require collaboration among at least three municipalities or communities. There are two types of Destination Marketing grants available for nonprofit organizations:

This grant is for marketing and promotion initiatives that increase visitor spending across at least three municipalities or communities. This marketing option is designed to implement the research acquired in the Destination Marketing Development grant. The marketing initiatives should occur during the off-season when the region needs a boost in tourism business. The eligible award amount is $10,000 per municipality, with the maximum award being $39,550 for the project total.

Tourism Nonprofit Growth & Development

Pre-clinical Investigation of anti-TFPI-mediated Rebalancing Mechanisms in Non-Hemophilic Bleeding Disorders (2026-06-26)

Pfizer, Inc.
Corporate
Brazil, China +7 more
Up to US $50,000

Pre-clinical Investigation of anti-TFPI-mediated Rebalancing Mechanisms in Non-Hemophilic Bleeding Disorders 

There remains a scientific gap in understanding of the role of anti-TFP Imediated hemostatic rebalancing in the context of inherited or non-hemophilic bleeding disorders. This competitive grant program encourages competitive submissions focsed on generating preclinical/foundational data exploring the therapeutic potential and mechanisms of TFPI modulation in bleeding disorders other than hemophilia.

Geographic Scope

Brazil, China, Europe, Israel, Japan, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Turkey, USA

Funding Range and Project Length

Individual projects requesting up to $50,000 USD will be considered.

Request for study drug or compound is allowed (max $50,000 USD), additionally to the study project costs.

Maximum project length is 1 year.

Hematological Systems

Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) - WI

Wisconsin Emergency Management
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
Up to US $200,000

Wisconsin Emergency Management 

Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM), a division of the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs, is committed to building a safe and resilient Wisconsin. WEM coordinates statewide resources, supports local governments and tribal nations, and strengthens preparedness for disasters and emergencies. From operating the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) to delivering training, exercises, and planning support, WEM ensures communities are ready to respond and recover. Key priorities include disaster response coordination, hazard mitigation, recovery programs, and public safety training. Guided by its mission to protect lives and property, WEM partners with agencies across the state to enhance emergency capabilities and foster resilience.

Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) - WI

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) provides funding support for target hardening and other physical security enhancements and activities to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of terrorist attack. The intent is to integrate nonprofit preparedness activities with broader state and local preparedness efforts. It is also designed to promote coordination and collaboration in emergency preparedness activities among public and private community representatives, as well as state and local government agencies.

Domestic / Homeland Security Nonprofit Growth & Development Cybersecurity

The Alpha Omega Alpha/Pharos Poetry Award

Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society
Private
United States
US $1,500

The Alpha Omega Alpha/Pharos Poetry Award

To encourage students to write effective poetry. Winning poems are published in The Pharos.

The Award

Up to 5 poems will receive a $1,500 award. The winning entries will be published in The Pharos.

Poetry Education - Higher Education

Summer Medical Internship Program (SMIP)

The Society of Interventional Radiology Foundation
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $6,000

Summer Medical Internship Program (SMIP)

Fosters an interest in research by funding a summer research project conducted by a medical student.

The SIR Foundation Summer Medical Internship Program introduces medical students to interventional radiology research and medical device development. The goal of this program is to foster an interest in research by funding a summer research project conducted by a medical student.

Students applying for the program must show strong potential for a career in IR with proven academic success. Selected students will have an opportunity to intern with an interventional radiologist research mentor or corporate research and development mentor for 8 weeks during the summer.

SIR Foundation will provide a $6,000 stipend to help ease the financial burdens throughout their internship experience.

  • Budget: Up to $6,000
  • Grant Length: Eight weeks
Apprenticeship & Internship Programs Medical Education & Professional Training

RFI: Nursing Scholarships - John J. O'Connor Jr. Memorial Nursing Scholarship Fund

The Rhode Island Community Foundation
Private
Rhode Island
US $500 - US $10,000
The John J. O'Connor Jr. Memorial Nursing Scholarship Fund provides financial support to Rhode Island residents pursuing a CNA, Associates, or Bachelor's degree in nursing. Each year, the Foundation awards scholarships from various nursing funds, allowing applicants to apply for multiple programs with a single application. Awards range from $500 to $10,000, and past recipients can reapply, ensuring continued support for academic excellence and financial need.
Nursing

Future Canes Grants

Carolina Hurricanes Foundation
Corporate
North Carolina
US $10,000 - US $20,000
The Kids 'N Community Foundation offers Future Canes Grants to support youth hockey programs in North Carolina. With a commitment of at least $60,000 annually, these grants aim to enhance accessibility and growth in youth hockey. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving children, demonstrating effective program delivery and a focus on health or education. The Foundation emphasizes impactful service, ensuring funds directly benefit children in need, while also outlining specific ineligible activities.
Hockey

RFI: Nursing Scholarships - Edward J. and Virginia M. Routhier Nursing Scholarship

The Rhode Island Community Foundation
Private
Rhode Island
US $500 - US $10,000
The Edward J. and Virginia M. Routhier Nursing Scholarship, offered by the Rhode Island Community Foundation, supports licensed RNs pursuing baccalaureate or graduate degrees in nursing. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and can reapply if they were past recipients. Award amounts range from $500 to $10,000, and a single application covers multiple nursing funds, providing accessibility for qualified candidates in Rhode Island.
Nursing

Jack Wilson First Generation Scholarship

The Marietta Kiwanis Foundationinc
Private
United States
US $2,500

We are about helping children, right here in Marietta!

Kiwanis Club of Marietta members participate in service projects, hold fundraisers, and change children’s lives in our community. In addition, club members contribute to Kiwanis International initiatives helping clubs around the world assist children with education, basic needs, and medical care.

The Kiwanis Club of Marietta was chartered March 3, 1930 - Marietta, GA.

The Kiwanis Club of Marietta has proudly established and contributed to several scholarship endowments over the years to support deserving college students in our community. These scholarships are made possible through our club's Flag Project, which places over 1,300 American flags in front of homes and businesses five times each year.

Jack Wilson First Generation Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 2024 by the Marietta Kiwanis Foundation in honor of longtime Kiwanian, first-generation student, and beloved community servant Jack Wilson. 

A first-generation student will be designated as a student with neither parent, or legal guardian, having earned a baccalaureate or associate’s degree from an accredited college or university. Selection emphasis will be placed on academic achievement, character, and essay regarding your life story, intended field of study/career, and how you will make an impact on the world. 

Awards

  • $2500
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Forever Remember Scholarship

The Marietta Kiwanis Foundationinc
Private
United States
US $2,500

We are about helping children, right here in Marietta!

Kiwanis Club of Marietta members participate in service projects, hold fundraisers, and change children’s lives in our community. In addition, club members contribute to Kiwanis International initiatives helping clubs around the world assist children with education, basic needs, and medical care.

The Kiwanis Club of Marietta was chartered March 3, 1930 - Marietta, GA.

The Kiwanis Club of Marietta has proudly established and contributed to several scholarship endowments over the years to support deserving college students in our community. These scholarships are made possible through our club's Flag Project, which places over 1,300 American flags in front of homes and businesses five times each year.

Forever Remember Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 2010 by the Marietta Kiwanis Foundation to recognize those who are left behind.

The applicant agrees that verification of dependency may occur during the selection process. Emphasis for this award will be placed on the essay, character, and academic achievement.

Awards

  • $2500
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

RFI: Nursing Scholarships - Willard and Marjorie Scheibe Nursing Scholarship

The Rhode Island Community Foundation
Private
Rhode Island
US $500 - US $10,000
The Willard and Marjorie Scheibe Nursing Scholarship, offered by the Rhode Island Community Foundation, supports Rhode Island residents pursuing LPN, RN, or advanced nursing degrees. This scholarship considers financial need and allows past recipients to reapply. Award amounts range between $500 to $10,000, and applicants can use a single application for multiple nursing funds, streamlining the process for qualifying individuals.
Nursing

E.W. Chastain Scholarship

The Marietta Kiwanis Foundationinc
Private
United States
US $2,500

We are about helping children, right here in Marietta!

Kiwanis Club of Marietta members participate in service projects, hold fundraisers, and change children’s lives in our community. In addition, club members contribute to Kiwanis International initiatives helping clubs around the world assist children with education, basic needs, and medical care.

The Kiwanis Club of Marietta was chartered March 3, 1930 - Marietta, GA.

The Kiwanis Club of Marietta has proudly established and contributed to several scholarship endowments over the years to support deserving college students in our community. These scholarships are made possible through our club's Flag Project, which places over 1,300 American flags in front of homes and businesses five times each year.

E.W. Chastain Scholarship

This is a scholarship established in 1997 by the Marietta Kiwanis Foundation. 

Selection emphasis will be placed on academic achievement and character. 

Awards

  • $2500
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

RFI: Nursing Scholarships - Lillian Sparfven & Ethel Ferrara Fund Scholarship

The Rhode Island Community Foundation
Private
Rhode Island
US $500 - US $10,000
The Lillian Sparfven & Ethel Ferrara Fund Scholarship, offered by the Rhode Island Community Foundation, provides financial support for Rhode Island residents pursuing nursing degrees. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and be enrolled in accredited programs for LPN, RN, or advanced nursing degrees. The scholarship amounts range from $500 to $10,000, with a preference for those planning to practice in Rhode Island after graduation. Past recipients can reapply.
Nursing

Pacific Redwoods Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Crisis Action Fund

Humboldt Area Foundation
Private
Del Norte County, California, Humboldt County, California +1 more
US $5,000 - US $7,000

Pacific Redwoods Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Crisis Action Fund

The Pacific Redwoods Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Crisis Action Fund supports work being done to address the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples crisis in Northern California. Specifically, by providing grants to Tribes and non-profit organizations, the grants will support strengthening organizing, advocacy, technical assistance and capacity building for programs working to advance efforts in California.

Average grant size:

  • $5,000 -$7,000

Applications will be reviewed on a monthly basis.

Indigenous Services

Developmental Disabilities Council of Oklahoma (DDCO) Funding

Developmental Disabilities Council of Oklahoma (DDCO)
State/Local Government
Oklahoma
Up to US $25,000

About The Council

The mission of the Developmental Disabilities Council of Oklahoma is to advance communities where everyone has the opportunity to live, learn, work, and play where they choose. The Council builds partnerships to change systems to improve services, resources, and supports for Oklahomans with developmental disabilities and their families.

Developmental Disabilities Council of Oklahoma

The Developmental Disabilities Council of Oklahoma (DDCO) welcomes unsolicited proposals and applications for contracts to fund activities to advance the independence, productivity, and inclusion of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

What does DDCO do?

Provide information and technical assistance to legislators, policymakers, and state agencies, private organizations, and advocates.

Provide assistance to individuals and organizations to support individuals with developmental disabilities and family members to participate on advocacy boards and attend conferences.

Participate in work groups, task forces, and coalitions that affect policy making at the state and federal levels.

Fund leadership and advocacy training for advocates and field professionals.

Fund work performed by council staff or other entities that will: 

  • Identify individuals and their families who may need services or supports,
  • Foster inter-agency collaboration and coordination resulting in improved service or support,
  • Reduce or eliminate barriers to services; or redesign systems of support to better meet individual needs,
  • Inform policymakers on the results of its work, policy design, best and promising practices, or other findings that may inform future policy decisions, or 
  • Create model projects or programs demonstrating new approaches to serving Oklahoman's with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
  • DDCO can fund up to 75% of the total project cost that provides training or an innovative demonstration of new approaches, but will not fund direct services to people as a primary goal of a project.                                                                           
Intellectual / Developmental Disabilities

Karl Hirsch Memorial Research Grants

Western Interior Paleontological Society
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $1,000
The Karl Hirsch Memorial Grants, established in honor of Karl Hirsch, support innovative research in paleontology and related fields. These grants fund activities such as museum travel, specimen collection, and advanced analyses. Preference is given to first-time applicants and WIPS members, although active membership is no longer a requirement. Past grant recipients must have met reporting obligations to be eligible. This initiative aims to foster diverse research projects and advance the field of paleontology.
Paleontology

Indian Land Tenure Foundation - Cultural Awareness

Indian Land Tenure Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Indian Land Tenure Foundation (ILTF) offers a Cultural Awareness Grant aimed at revitalizing the cultural and spiritual values related to Indian land. This initiative supports American Indian nations in enhancing their ties to the land, which is vital for traditional practices and beliefs. Eligible entities include tribal governments and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Ineligible activities encompass advocacy efforts, land purchases, and direct funding to individuals, ensuring resources focus on community-centered cultural preservation.
Native American Culture & Heritage

Pew Center for Arts & Heritage: Capacity Building Grants - Research and Travel Grants

Pew Charitable Trusts
Private
Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Chester County, Pennsylvania +3 more
US $2,000 - US $4,000
The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage offers Capacity Building Grants to support organizations in enhancing their professional capabilities within contemporary art and public history. Grants range from $2,500 to $7,500, focusing on research, travel, and technical assistance for grant proposal preparation. Eligible applicants include organizations with a 501(c)(3) designation in the Philadelphia region. Priority is given to those with operating budgets under $500,000 and first-time applicants.
Art & Culture History Art History

Natalie A.W. Leaf Scholarship

Chester County Community Foundation
Private
Chester County, Pennsylvania
US $2,500
The Natalie A.W. Leaf Scholarship, established in 1990, supports Chester County residents pursuing education in traditional arts, crafts, and trades. Funded by Miss Natalie A.W. Leaf's estate, this unique scholarship aims to preserve historical craftsmanship. Awardees can receive $2,500, renewable with a 3.0 GPA, to study at various institutions or workshops. Miss Leaf, an art teacher, was dedicated to skilled craftsmanship and empowering others through hands-on learning and restoration efforts.
Historic Preservation Vocational & Trade Education

Truth Initiative Tobacco/Vape-Free College Program

Truth Initiative Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $20,000
The Truth Initiative Tobacco/Vape-Free College Program offers grants of up to $20,000 to U.S. colleges and universities aiming to implement 100% tobacco/vape-free policies. Additionally, grants of up to $10,000 are available for schools looking to enhance existing smoke-free policies to include e-cigarettes. This initiative seeks to engage students and create support from faculty and staff, ultimately fostering healthier campus environments.
Smoking

Match Magic Grant

Cobb Community Foundation Inc
Private
Cobb County, Georgia
Unspecified amount
The Match Magic Grant, initiated by the Cobb Community Foundation, successfully mobilized nearly $1.6 million from local donors to support 27 nonprofit organizations in Cobb County. In just three weeks, with an additional $138,000 in matching funds, the total exceeded $1.7 million, surpassing the initial $1 million goal. This initiative highlights the community's commitment to enhancing local quality of life and showcases the foundation's pivotal role in fostering charitable giving.
Business Development Nonprofit Growth & Development

Jack and Nona Renn Anchorage Football Fund

The Alaska Community Foundation
Private
Anchorage Municipality, Alaska
Up to US $7,500
The Jack and Nona Renn Anchorage Football Fund honors Jack Renn's legacy by supporting Anchorage school football teams. Grants of up to $1,300 are available for flag football teams, while high school football teams can receive up to $6,500. Funds are intended for purchasing essential team equipment, ensuring that players have the necessary gear to succeed. This initiative aims to enhance the future of sports in Anchorage's public high schools.
Football

Operating Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Operating grants for nonprofits provide essential funding to support day-to-day operations, staff salaries, and infrastructure. The following grants help organizations build capacity, maintain sustainability, and focus on achieving their mission-driven goals.


Search Instrumentl's Operating Grants Database


Explore 8,000+ funding opportunities for operational support, with $3.34B in resources. Instrumentl helps nonprofits secure essential funding by offering grant discovery tools, deadline tracking, and strategic funder analysis to ensure long-term success.

Last updated: November 2, 2026. Next update: December 6, 2026.

Grant Insights : Operating Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Quite common — grants in this category are more prevalent than in others.

8,000+ Operating grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

3,000+ Operating grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

3,000+ Operating grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

1,000+ Operating grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

7,000+ Operating grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Youth Services

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Food Access & Hunger

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Operating grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
29.7%
Q2
24.7%
Q3
23.5%
Q4
22.1%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Operating Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $32,500.

$0 $0 Min.
$32,500 $32.5 K Median
$633,837 $633.8 K Average
$188,250,000 $188.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Nonprofits of all types can apply for operating grants, but they are especially useful for organizations needing flexible funding to support the core work of their mission. Operating grants are ideal for nonprofits involved in general population well-being. Specific sectors include healthcare, education, social services, and the arts. Unlike project-based grants that fund specific initiatives, operating grants help with essential costs like staff salaries, rent, and general admin costs. Funders often look for groups with a clear mission who serve a meaningful purpose and have potential for long-term impact.

Based on Instrumentl’s live grant database for operating, grant deadlines are most common in Q1, accounting for 29.7% of all submission dates. The slowest period for new grant opportunities in this category falls in Q4, making it a less competitive time for preparation and strategic planning.

Operating grants exist to help nonprofits function smoothly and grow effectively. The goal is to give organizations the financial means they need to focus on their mission, serve their communities, and support long-term stability. These grants allow nonprofits to improve everyday operations, invest in staff development, and expand programs. Funders want to see nonprofits thrive, not just survive, and providing operational support is a key element to making that happen.

Funding for operating grants varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $0 to a maximum of $188,250,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $32,500, while the average grant awarded is $633,837. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

Operating grants are often funded by private foundations like the popular Ford Foundation. Some government agencies offer grants to strengthen nonprofit infrastructure, especially in sectors like health, education, and social services. Corporate giving programs may also support nonprofits that align with their values and create lasting impact.

To improve the chances of getting operating grants, nonprofits should:

  • Showcase past impact – Use data and real-world examples to prove how your organization has already made a difference.
  • Prove how you align with funder priorities – Research what funders care about and explain how your nonprofit’s mission fits within their goals.
  • Prove financial stability – Funders want to support organizations that can manage funds responsibly and have a solid sustainability plan for the long-term.
  • Emphasize lasting growth – Describe how operating funds will help your nonprofit expand its reach, strengthen programs, and increase its overall impact.

For more advice on finding and winning operating grants, check out our step-by-step guide to general operating grants.

Instrumentl simplifies the process of applying for operating grants by offering an intuitive platform that helps nonprofits discover relevant funding opportunities, track deadlines, and analyze funder-giving patterns. The platform's automated alerts ensure users never miss a deadline, while detailed funder insights help organizations tailor their applications to align with grantor priorities.

Check out how Habitat for Humanity delivered over 200% ROI within just a few weeks.