Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The New Orleans as Cultural Capital Grant provides essential operating support to nonprofit arts organizations across various disciplines such as dance, music, and visual arts. With funding amounts of $3,500, $7,000, or $14,000 based on fiscal year expenditures, this grant emphasizes artistic excellence and equitable practices. Grants are awarded for two years, encouraging long-term sustainability and community engagement in the arts. Applications open on February 3, 2025, for 2026 and 2027 support.

Oregon Sea Grant

Established at Oregon State University in 1971 as one of the first four Sea Grant College Programs designated in the nation, Oregon Sea Grant is now one of 34 programs within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Sea Grant College Program. Congress established the national Sea Grant program in1966. Oregon Sea Grant is cooperative program between NOAA and Oregon State University. Our programs serve all of Oregon. Our core-funding is from NOAA Sea Grant and requires a 50% match of non-federal funding. Oregon State University is our primary non-federal fiscal partner, but we rely on many other collaborators and partners, including local governments, agencies, industry, and philanthropy to expand our capacity to address ongoing, unexpected, and emerging needs of Oregon's coastal communities and ecosystems.

We address regionally and nationally strategic issues through an integrated program of competitive, rigorously reviewed research, extension services and projects, and public education. We support dynamic, inventive, and flexible approaches to meet the needs of communities in changing natural and social environments.

Program Development Grants

Oregon Sea Grant offers modest grants for project opportunities or special circumstances when resources are available.

These funds generally are not intended to supplement an existing project, but to provide seed money for exploratory or high-risk efforts, or to respond to urgent needs or unforeseen opportunities that require a timely effort.

Purpose

In addition to competitive grants awarded on a two-year cycle, Oregon Sea Grant offers modest grants for project opportunities or special circumstances, when resources are available. These projects typically arise between the regular application periods and must align with the Oregon Sea Grant strategic plan. These funds generally are not intended to supplement an existingproject, but to provide seed money for exploratory or high-risk/impact efforts, or to respond to urgent needs or unforeseen opportunities that require a timely effort. Oregon Sea Grant also considers requests for event support (or total requests less than $2,500) through our Conference and Activity Support program (see the Oregon Sea Grant “Conference and Activity Support Policy” for details).

Funding

Development grants are modest in size (total awards typically do not exceed $10,000) and should be one year or less in duration. Larger requests are occasionally considered, and are subject to peer review and approval by the National Sea Grant Office. Given our limited funding, success of requests in excess of $10,000 (total award) will be lower. While cost share is not required for program development proposals, opportunities for leveraged funds are welcome. Please contact us to discuss possible cost share for your project.

Program Development Submission Eligibility for April – December 2026 ONLY: Anyone residing in Oregon who can receive a personal services contract from OSU and is / can be set up in the Federal SAM system is eligible to apply for Oregon Sea Grant (ORSG) Program Development funds up to $6,700 (direct costs) during the period April – December 2026, funds permitting. Awards over $6,700 (direct costs) will be made only through colleges and universities.

The Strategic Initiative Grants by the Winston-Salem Foundation aim to build an inclusive economy for Black communities in Forsyth County. The program supports organizations focused on economic empowerment, addressing systemic inequities that affect Black residents. Grants are available for initiatives that create pathways to high-paying careers, promote financial stability, and support Black-owned businesses. This program reflects a commitment to fostering sustainable growth and equitable opportunities for all community members.

The Cross Charitable Foundation Grant provides support to organizations focused on education, homelessness, wildlife conservation, environmental protection, and the welfare of dogs. Only organizations invited by the Board can apply, with one application accepted per year from each organization. Grants are restricted to the North West United States, specifically Idaho, Utah, Montana, and Wyoming. Individuals are not eligible for funding, ensuring that support is directed towards effective community initiatives.

The James Marston Fitch Mid-Career Fellowship offers research grants up to $15,000 for mid-career professionals in fields like historic preservation, architecture, and urban design. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to innovative research and a clear dissemination plan. The fellowship encourages impactful projects that contribute significantly to the field, ensuring that only qualified individuals can apply, as it does not fund organizational projects or dissertation research.

The Capacity Building Grant program, initiated by the Rhode Island Foundation, offers funding and technical assistance to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. This program aims to address critical community priorities identified through extensive public engagement and research. By focusing on diversity, equity, inclusion, and access, the grant supports various activities, including strategic planning and operational improvements, enhancing the capacity of organizations to better serve their communities.

The Kern Community Foundation Farmworkers Grant provides essential support to unemployed and employed farmworkers in Kern County. This grant aims to enhance their quality of life through various forms of assistance, including family support, education, healthcare, housing, food assistance, childcare, legal aid, emergency relief, job support, and transportation. By connecting generous donors with community needs, KCF fosters a healthier and more vibrant Kern County for all residents.

The Tickets for Kids Grant Program, offered by the Tickets For Kids Foundation, aims to support low-income, at-risk children and youth by providing access to ticketed experiences at no cost. Organizations eligible for partnership include nonprofit agencies, schools serving primarily low-income students, and government agencies. The application process typically takes 2-4 weeks, with responses expected within five business days after review. This initiative enriches existing programming through valuable experiences.

The Emerging Artist Grant, offered by the Guild of Carillonneurs in North America, supports the next generation of carillonneurs by providing financial assistance for education and professional development. Eligible applicants can receive up to $750 or $2,000 depending on their qualifications, which may be used for tuition, travel, and equipment. This initiative aims to foster talent in the carillon community, ensuring a vibrant future for this unique musical art form.

The Lower Platte North Natural Resources District Grant supports high school students engaged in community-based natural resources projects. With funding up to $1,500, this grant encourages students to plan and implement projects that benefit local ecosystems. Eligible applicants must reside within the district and demonstrate active involvement in initiatives such as FFA supervised agricultural experiences, 4-H projects, or other community engagement efforts. This grant fosters environmental stewardship among youth, promoting sustainable practices in their communities.

The United Way of Southeast Louisiana is launching its second cycle of collaborative grants aimed at eradicating poverty through community-driven initiatives. The grants focus on five priority areas aligned with their Blueprint for Prosperity, which addresses stability, prosperity, wellness, and vibrant communities. Eligible applicants must operate within specific parishes and demonstrate a commitment to systemic change and equity. Funding supports planning, implementation, and continuous improvement efforts to foster long-term community impact.

The Clowes Fund supports socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals in New England, particularly through immigrant services and workforce development. Grants are available for both introductory and continuation applications, focusing on areas like education and community integration. Organizations serving specific counties in New Hampshire are prioritized. With a rigorous application process, fewer than 10% of introductory applications result in funding, while returning grantees have a higher success rate for continuation grants.

About VHCB

Our Mission: VHCB invests in the construction of affordable housing and conservation strategies that work together to ensure equity, resilience, and vitality for Vermont communities in perpetuity.

Project Feasibility Fund

The Board provides feasibility awards to assist with pre-development costs and feasibility analysis for individual projects. Feasibility funds typically cover the costs of appraisals, energy assessments, marketing studies, options, engineering and environmental studies, or other pre-development costs.

The purpose of this fund is to provide applicants with a source of funding to cover predevelopment project costs as described below in order to answer the question “is the project feasible?”. Evaluation of feasibility fund requests is done by VHCB staff.

Amount of Award

Conservation applicants may request up to $10,000 as a grant for a single project to cover feasibility related expenses. Housing applicants may request up to $20,000 as a grant for a single project to cover feasibility related expenses and up to $25,000 for scattered site projects containing more than two separate sites. Funds can only be used to compensate contracted services and shall not be used to compensate applicants for staff time.

Foundation for Delaware County

Our Mission

To ensure an equitable, vibrant future for Delaware County by promoting generosity, inspiring participation and partnership across our communities, and improving the quality of life for all.

The Foundation for Delaware County works with individuals, private foundations, nonprofits, and businesses to move Delaware County forward.

Partners in Giving RFP

This collaborative effort between The Community’s Foundation (TCF) and The Foundation for Delaware County (the Foundation) is designed to support nonprofits serving Delaware County by reducing duplication, improving access to resources, and creating a more seamless funding experience. Through greater alignment of processes, shared expertise, and coordinated opportunities, nonprofits can more easily navigate support systems, strengthen their organizational capacity, while maximizing the collective benefit to the community.

Rather than duplicating efforts, TCF and the Foundation will work side-by-side to identify where joint action can yield greater results, whether through shared tools that make grant applications more accessible, coordinated timelines that reduce administrative burden for grantee partners, or aligned funding priorities that direct resources toward the community’s highest needs.

This approach fosters stronger relationships between the two foundations and with the nonprofit sector, builds mutual understanding of local challenges and opportunities, and reinforces the shared commitment to equitable, high-impact philanthropy in Delaware County.

This spirit of partnership is reflected in specific initiatives that make it easier for nonprofits to engage with both foundations and focus more of their energy on delivering impact.

Funding Priorities

For the 2026 Partners in Giving Grant cycle, this collective effort will consider awarding grant funds to organizations that focus on community development, health, hospice and homecare, support for cancer survivors, and youth development.

Eligible organizations may apply for funding under any of the funding priorities, selecting one area that aligns most closely with their mission and proposed activities. The application should demonstrate outcomes within at least one of the following types of outcomes:

Types of Outcomes

Safety Net – Provide basic assistance to ensure well-being and prevent dire outcomes for individuals facing economic hardship, health issues, or other challenges.

Preventive – Intervene before problems arise, reducing factors that lead to negative outcomes and enhancing protective factors that contribute to well-being and success. This can include Out-Of-School Time programming.

Systems Change – Target the root causes of social issues to change structures, such as public policies and regulations that enable systems to function better.

Organizational Development – Strengthen effectiveness and capacity through planned change in an organization’s processes, systems, structures, or leadership.

Eligible organizations may submit one application to support their efforts in advancing the funding priorities above. Organizations can apply for a single year only.

Partners in Giving: Health

The 2026 Partners in Giving initiative will consider awarding grants of up to $10,000 to organizations that improve the health and well-being of children, families, and vulnerable populations living in Delaware County, including through LGBTQIA+ inclusive and affirming approaches. Funding may support health education, prevention, supportive services, coordination, and advocacy efforts that strengthen access to behavioral health (including mental health), health care, maternal and child health services, preventive care, nutrition, and food security, with an emphasis on improving outcomes for low-income and historically marginalized communities.

All grant proceeds must be used to provide programs and services in and for Delaware County residents.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) was created on July 1, 1970 to combine all state programs designed to protect and enhance the environment into a single agency.

DEC's Mission: "To conserve, improve and protect New York's natural resources and environment and to prevent, abate and control water, land and air pollution, in order to enhance the health, safety and welfare of the people of the state and their overall economic and social well-being."

DEC's goal is to achieve this mission through the simultaneous pursuit of environmental quality, public health, economic prosperity and social well-being, including environmental justice and the empowerment of individuals to participate in environmental decisions that affect their lives.

Resilient Watersheds Grant Program

$60 million of Environmental Bond Act funding is available for implementation of flood mitigation projects across New York State through the Resilient Watersheds Grant (RWG) Program. Applicants to RWG must either be a recipient of a Resilient NY flood study or possess a DEC-approved comparable study, and prepared to supply a 10% match.

Description

The Resilient Watersheds Grant (RWG) program is a competitive, statewide grant program open to local governments, Indian Nations, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, state agencies, and not-for-profit corporations. The overall goal of RWG is to implement projects that build community resilience, reduce risk of flooding, erosion, and ice jams during extreme weather events, enhance climate resilience, and/ or implement natural and nature-based feature construction while supporting healthy riparian habitats. This funding is for the implementation or construction of projects, not projects exclusively for planning and/ or design.

At least five total rounds are anticipated for RWG.

Funding Overview

The Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 allocated $4.2 billion for state agencies, local governments, and partners to protect water quality, help communities adapt to climate change, improve resilience, and create green jobs. The first round of RWG closed in 2025 and awarded $55 million in funding to 15 applicants. The RWG program has a total of $60 million available for the second round of applications, opening in 2026. RWG awards received may fund up to 90% of eligible project costs, resulting in a 10% match requirement. Projects are funded to the extent of available funds based on the evaluation criteria. The RWG program, in its sole discretion, may fund all or a portion of an eligible project and will determine the percentage amount available for any project. A local match for the balance of the estimated project cost is required.

Foothills Gateway, Inc. is now accepting grant applications for the 2024-25 Fiscal Year to enhance services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Larimer County. Funding of up to $50,000 is available for projects that improve community integration, provide behavioral health services, and support educational independence. Organizations are encouraged to apply for capital projects exceeding this limit, as each request will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) was created on July 1, 1970 to combine all state programs designed to protect and enhance the environment into a single agency.

DEC's Mission: "To conserve, improve and protect New York's natural resources and environment and to prevent, abate and control water, land and air pollution, in order to enhance the health, safety and welfare of the people of the state and their overall economic and social well-being."

DEC's goal is to achieve this mission through the simultaneous pursuit of environmental quality, public health, economic prosperity and social well-being, including environmental justice and the empowerment of individuals to participate in environmental decisions that affect their lives.

Forest Conservation Easements for Land Trust (FCELT) Program

The Forest Conservation Easements for Land Trusts Program offers competitive matching grants to qualified New York land trusts to fund the acquisition of conservation easements on forestland that will increase the pace of forested land conservation to combat the impacts of a changing climate.

The program provides up to $1.35 million from the Environmental Protection Fund for grants to land trusts to protect forestland through conservation easements. The program is administered by the Land Trust Alliance in coordination with DEC.

Preterm Birth Reduction Initiative RFA

DC Health aims to reduce racial/ethnic disparities in preterm birth and infant mortality in the District of Columbia. Funding under this RFA will support the implementation of evidence-based strategies to reduce maternal risk factors and the occurrence of preterm births among high-risk District residents.

RFP for High-risk OB and Neonatal Transport

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (the Agency) is providing this notice of intent to release a request for proposal (RFP) to fund approximately three High‑Risk OB and Neonatal Transport projects that will strengthen Iowa’s rural perinatal system by expanding EMS capacity to safely transport high‑risk pregnant individuals and newborns to appropriate levels of care. These projects will equip EMS agencies with specialized training, tele‑OB support, and neonatal‑specific equipment to improve outcomes and ensure timely, coordinated access to advanced maternal and neonatal services. A core objective of this initiative is to establish consistent, reliable transfer patterns across a statewide hub‑and‑spoke network so rural facilities can efficiently route patients to the right care at the right time.

Purpose

The purpose of this Request for Proposal (RFP) # PHTHOET27002 is to solicit applications that will enable the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (referred to as Agency) to select the most qualified applicants to implement the High-Risk OB and Neonatal Transport Initiative. This initiative will strengthen Iowa’s emergency maternal and neonatal care system by funding equipment purchases, non-reimbursable clinical services, workforce initiatives, continuing education and training.

New Jersey Department of Health

The scope of work for the public health system is ever-expanding, and the Department is on the frontlines in leading the response to public health challenges. The Department has three primary branches – Public Health Services, Health Systems, and Integrated Health. All work collaboratively toward improving health by strengthening New Jersey’s health system.

Our Mission: Protect the public’s health, promote healthy communities, and continue to improve the quality of health care in New Jersey.

SSUS State STD Program 

Purpose For Which the Grant Program Funds Shall be Used 

Applicants are able to request 1) Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS) staff to conduct disease investigation and intervention activities, also known as Partner Services; AND/OR 2) request funds to provide statewide safety net coverage of STD testing for men and women under 30 years of age that do not have insurance or other means to obtain STD testing; AND/OR 3) expand existing, local health STD clinical services to increase hours of operation and persons served for STD testing and treatment; AND/OR 4) provide integration of STD and HIV Services.

Qualifications Needed By Application To be Considered For a Grant

• The provision of syphilis (and other potential emerging STD needs) field investigation and follow-up. Funding is intended to cover DIS staff salary, fringe and related DIS expenses.

• Expansion of local health STD Clinic services by adding clinical staff that will allow for expanded hours and services.

The W. W. Smith Charitable Trust provides funding for basic medical research focusing on heart disease, cancer, and AIDS. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations located in the Greater Philadelphia area and Camden, NJ. Each grant typically ranges from $100,000 to $125,000 for a one-year term. The Trust aims to support unique and promising research projects that can lead to larger awards, ensuring a direct impact on health outcomes.

About the Foundation

The Glass Recycling Foundation was created to help fill gaps in community glass recycling efforts.

Across the country, there exists strong support and consumer desire to recycle glass, but many state and local governments struggle to recover glass due to a lack of investment in glass recycling systems. GRF works to support these efforts by providing matching grants for equipment that helps these communities get started.

Our Vision

To increase recycling through education and best practices to ensure the highest benefit for communities and the environment.

Our Mission

To promote the preservation of the environment through glass recycling through education, grant making and creating pilot programs for effective glass recycling working in collaboration with other trade organizations in the glass recycling value chain. 

Glass Recycling Foundation Grant

The Columbus Audubon Conservation Grant Program, established in 2013, aims to support projects that conserve Ohio's native bird species through habitat management, protection, and scientific research. With over $20,000 awarded to date, the program encourages community involvement in creating bird-friendly environments. Eligible applicants include non-profits, businesses, educational institutions, and individuals. Projects must primarily focus on innovative conservation strategies within central Ohio, aligning with the National Audubon Society's initiatives.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

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.

Clean Water Construction Grant Program

The mission of the District of Columbia’s Clean Water Construction (CWC) program is to fund the design and construction of voluntary projects that provide clean water to District streams and rivers.

Clean Water Construction Treatment Works Projects - Notice Of Funding Availability and Request For Partners (RFP)

DOEE seeks to identify collaborative partners for its fiscal year (FY) 2027 Clean Water Construction (CWC) grant application to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Applications are requested for project partners in three categories of work: (1) Sewage Infrastructure Projects, (2) Stormwater Grey Infrastructure Projects, and (3) Stormwater Green Infrastructure Projects. This RFP is competitive.

Clean Water Construction Grant Program - Stormwater Grey Infrastructure Projects

Stormwater Grey Infrastructure Projects prevent or reduce discharge of stormwater pollution from industrial activities at municipal facilities into storm sewers, combined sewer systems, or District waterbodies. Industrial activities include those for which stormwater pollution prevention is required under the Multi-Sector General Permit (MSGP) permit, the District’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer (MS4) permit, or other National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits.

Project examples

• Leachate pretreatment at municipal landfills and trash transfer stations;
• Infrastructure to prevent stormwater from coming into contact with contaminants; and
• Any method, conveyance, equipment, or infrastructure used as part of a system for treating stormwater to remove pollutants.

The CFES Mini Grants program, offered by the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, supports local 501c3 nonprofits and certified schools with funding under $1,000 for diverse programs. These grants address crucial community needs in areas like health, arts, and education, enhancing services for vulnerable populations. Applications are accepted monthly, but first-time applicants may require a consultation. The program emphasizes collaboration and aims to empower organizations making a positive impact in Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties.

The CFMC Competitive Grant Cycle invites 501(c)(3) organizations to apply for funding for the year 2026. Two application cycles are available, in Fall 2025 and Spring 2026, focusing on general operating support and impactful community programs. The foundation emphasizes grants that address community needs, enhance organizational capacity, and foster collaboration. Eligible organizations must address documented community concerns and align with the foundation's areas of need, including health, education, and social services.