Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Division of Governance Interventions supports TEA’s mission and vision by providing exceptional leadership, guidance, and support to school system leadership teams and governing boards. The division collaborates with external field support agents appointed by the TEA Commissioner of Education to build sustainable systems aligned to core TEA initiatives, so that the school system thrives after the release of agency intervention. 

ESC Behavior Position Pilot

Program Description

This program is being created to provide technical assistance to school systems, campuses, and teachers that have special education students experiencing behavioral difficulties that result in dangerous or unsafe learning environments for that student or others. The goal of this program is to ensure that infrastructure is in place to support the students before, during, and after they experience behavioral difficulties as well as provide support for the school system, teachers, and students who may be impacted by the behavior. The program is being established in response to TEC §29.010 (a-1) that states “…the agency may require a school district to obtain specialized technical assistance for a documented noncompliance issue or if data indicates that technical assistance is needed, such as an incident involving injury to staff or students by a student receiving special education services or data indicating an excessive number of restraints are used on students receiving special education services.”

The New Jersey Commission on Spinal Cord Research offers the Exploratory Research Grant to support independent investigators in spinal cord research. This grant aims to facilitate innovative ideas and accelerate the development of treatments for spinal cord injuries. It provides up to $100,000 per year for two years, focusing on high-risk, high-reward projects that may lead to breakthroughs in the field. Collaborative and interdisciplinary proposals are encouraged to enhance research outcomes.

The Foundation for Financial Planning provides grants to nonprofit organizations that connect volunteer financial planners with underserved individuals in need of financial guidance. Focused on scalable and sustainable programs, the grants support both established and new initiatives that foster one-on-one relationships between planners and clients. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits and engage Certified Financial Planner professionals to ensure quality advice is accessible to those facing financial crises.

The WAEF Scholarships, provided by the Washington Apple Education Foundation, support over 300 students annually, awarding more than $1 million in educational funding. These scholarships are primarily aimed at students with parents employed in the tree fruit industry, including roles at Allan Brothers. Eligible recipients can pursue various degrees at accredited institutions, with awards potentially renewable for multiple years, promoting educational advancement in the agricultural sector.

The Social Impact Theatre Grant Program supports innovative theatrical productions that address pressing social issues, fostering dialogue and community engagement. With a focus on sustainability, the program offers production-specific and change capital grants to eligible nonprofit organizations in select states. Grantees are encouraged to explore new models, deepen community connections, and support emerging leaders in theatre. Applications for the next cycle will open in Spring 2025, following the completion of the current funding round.

Maureen Curry Inspiration Scholarship

This fund was established to provide scholarship opportunities to inspire and encourage needy individuals who wish to improve their education and/or job skills through credit or noncredit education or training programs at Jamestown Community College or any other accredited institution.

Maryetta’s Mission Scholarship

Established by Maryetta's Mission at the First Church of God of Eldred, PA, this scholarship is awarded to students who are entering or currently in a post-secondary program for Christian-based ministerial studies including majors or fields of study such as theology, music liturgy, youth development, Christian administration, etc.

The Maine Craft Apprenticeship Program (CAP) connects aspiring artisans with experienced mentors for 100 hours of hands-on training over seven months. This initiative fosters skill development, encourages creative entrepreneurship, and promotes sustainable craft practices in Maine and New Hampshire. By facilitating strong mentor-apprentice relationships, CAP aims to enhance the craft sector's resilience, support professional growth, and provide alternative funding avenues, ultimately enriching the local craft community.

Civic Education and Civic Participation

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation is pleased to announce a competitive grant opportunity designed to support organizations that seek to engage in nonpartisan civic education and civic participation efforts leading up to the 2026 Midterm and Gubernatorial elections, particularly supporting civically underrepresented residents of the Greater Hartford 29 town region. The Foundation welcomes requests of up to $25,000 for nonpartisan activities implemented through the Spring and Fall of 2026.

This grant opportunity is by invite only. Organizations that received a 2020 Civic Engagement grant or a 2023 or 2024 Civic Engagement and Get Out the Vote grant can reach out to Cynthia Wills, Community Impact Officer, cwills@GreaterHartfordGives.org for access to the application. New applicants must participate in an eligibility interview to be invited to apply. Please contact Senior Community Impact Associate, Tiana Starks, tstarks@GreaterHartfordGives.org to discuss a project’s potential fit and eligibility by March 3.

The S.W.A.N. Society in Boston provides financial assistance through individual grants to senior, single women in need, helping them maintain independence and dignity. Founded in 1816, the Society also supports community organizations that assist women aged 65 and over. All agency grants must be earmarked for female clients, and their distribution is based on the Society's fiscal circumstances and careful review of agency needs. This non-profit organization is dedicated to empowering elderly women facing financial challenges.

The Animal Welfare Grants, offered by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, provide funding up to $25,000 to organizations dedicated to the humane care of animals in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto Counties. This initiative aims to support emergency veterinary treatments and essential equipment purchases for clinics, ensuring that local animal welfare organizations can effectively address urgent medical needs and enhance their operational capabilities.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Clarence A. “Buck” Iles Scholarship

The Clarence A. “Buck” Iles Scholarship was lovingly established by his wife of 65 years, Carrie, to enable a deserving young person to pursue his/her education in the electrical field. Mr. and Mrs. Iles established a successful family-owned and operated electrical contracting company – serving the Saginaw area for more than 25 years. It was in this tradition of hard work, honesty and quality service that the Iles Electric Company, Inc., was founded.

Mr. Iles’ only regret was that he was not able to pursue a formal college education, but he enabled his children and grandchildren to accomplish their educational goals and dreams. Education, combined with dreams and hard work, will create realities. It is hoped that the values, determination and ambition demonstrated by Mr. Iles will be passed on to future generations of electricians as they realize their dreams.

The Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant, managed by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, aims to enhance student learning through various programmatic components. These include academic enrichment, family engagement, and a range of additional services that support students, particularly those in low-performing schools. The grant is designed to create safe environments for students after school hours, promoting holistic development through tutoring, arts, sports, and community service.

Kiwanis Club of North Modesto

We are a service club of men and women whose primary goal is to help children and young people around the world, starting in Modesto, CA.

Scholarships

The members of the Kiwanis Club of North Modesto (founded in 1966) and the Kiwanis Club of Modesto (founded in 1923) are joining forces to award $2,000 scholarships to as many as 32 students for the 2026-27 academic year. Each year, members of these two clubs perform countless hours of community service through fundraisers, then donate these funds back to nonprofits and young people in our community. It is the hope of the two clubs that scholarship recipients in their adult life will give back to their communities as members of a community service club.

Goals

• To encourage public or private high school graduates (within the boundaries of the Modesto High School District) to pursue education goals, preferably at a California community college, four-year college or university or at a technical/vocational school.

• To recognize academic achievement and to invest in the future of young scholars. 
• To recognize young scholars who have demonstrated a commitment to volunteerism and community service

The Dallas Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) provides approximately $190,000 annually to support homeless services in Dallas County. These funds are allocated to nonprofit organizations that deliver essential assistance and support to individuals experiencing homelessness. Services include emergency night shelter, transitional housing, and health support. For more information, please contact local partners such as The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center and Housing Forward NTX for resources and assistance.

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.

The Gabriel, Joseph and Lila Mandour Karam Scholarship, established by the late Joseph G. Karam, supports educational opportunities for students attending 2-year or 4-year colleges, universities, or vocational schools. Administered by the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, the fund has awarded nearly $60,000 to various nonprofits since 2012. The scholarship reflects a commitment to the dramatic arts and technological development, continuing Joseph's philanthropic legacy and vision for community enrichment.

The Darlington Excellence in Education (EIE) Fund, established in 2003, inspires teachers and students in the Darlington area by promoting innovative educational programs and recognizing outstanding achievements. With nearly $107,000 returned to the community, the fund supports both public and private schools, emphasizing quality education through community involvement and charitable resources. Grants are awarded annually for projects outside the school district's operating budget, fostering creativity and excellence in education.

The Firedoll Foundation provides grants for community-based services assisting survivors of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in California. Emphasizing post-acute support, the Foundation seeks to enhance the quality of life for TBI survivors, enabling their integration into society. Funding is prioritized for 501(c)(3) organizations and fiscally-sponsored projects focused on discrete deliverables. Notably, they do not support individuals or general operating costs for first-time applicants.

Community Foundation of the Ozarks

The Community Foundation of the Ozarks (CFO) provides philanthropic leadership to build stronger communities. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life in our region through resource development, community grantmaking, collaboration and public leadership.

We help donors achieve their philanthropic goals through professional management and investment of charitable funds. We work with nonprofit organizations to help them fulfill their missions through fund administration, grantmaking and learning opportunities. We award scholarships to deserving students to help them achieve their educational goals.

Clonts Anderson Scholarship

• Graduating high school senior from El Dorado Springs High School who is female
• GPA between 2.5 and 3.5; submit transcript
• Must be applying to a two-year or four-year accredited college, university or vocational school
• Demonstrate financial need; submit FAFSA-SAI form
• Describe participation in community service, school activities
• Essay required

About the Foundation

Kern Community Foundation is a vibrant nonprofit enterprise with a powerfully simple mission of growing community and growing philanthropy.

Scholarships

Kern Community Foundation manages more than two dozen scholarship funds. Community stakeholders have created these scholarships to honor their loved ones, to support higher education, and to foster the improvement of students as they pursue their diverse ambitions. Students have access to all our scholarship resources through one simple application.

David Moore Agricultural Scholarship Fund

Established in 2005, the David Moore Agricultural Scholarship Fund (“Fund”), in memory of David Moore, is a permanently endowed scholarship fund. The Fund provides academic support to graduates of Kern County high schools who wish to pursue a career in agriculture. 

The Fund provides financial assistance to students who are U.S. citizens, and graduates of a Kern County high school who demonstrate motivation, perseverance, and a sincere desire to pursue a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, and who wish to pursue a career in agriculture. Students are required to have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 at the time of application

The Wayne Shirley Fellowship, awarded by the Society for American Music, supports short-term research residencies at the Library of Congress, focusing on the diverse musics of the Americas. This annual fellowship honors Wayne Shirley's legacy as a dedicated librarian and music specialist. With a maximum award of $1,000, it encourages scholars at all career stages to explore American music and its cultural significance.

The BayCare Clinic Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing mental health initiatives in northeastern Wisconsin. This grant supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that propose innovative programs addressing mental health challenges, particularly for underserved populations. With quarterly funding opportunities, the Foundation aims to improve overall community well-being through collaborations that foster health and wellness. Eligible organizations must operate within the BayCare Clinic service areas and address pressing mental health issues effectively.

The Lewis McManus Memorial Fund, established by the Beckley Area Foundation, aims to enhance educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth in Raleigh County. With a total of $11,500 available for grants, the fund supports innovative educational initiatives and programs. Organizations eligible for funding must be recognized as non-profits and demonstrate a commitment to serving local youth. The fund honors Lewis McManus, a notable community leader and educator, ensuring his legacy impacts future generations.

The Higgins Family Fund, established by the Beckley Area Foundation in 2005, aims to enhance performing arts education in local schools. With a mission to inspire charitable giving, the fund offers $1,500 to support programs that present performing arts exhibitions to Raleigh County school children. Eligibility includes non-profit organizations or public institutions, with projects required to be completed by February 28, 2026. This initiative reflects the community's commitment to arts education and cultural enrichment.

South Carolina Department of Agriculture

The South Carolina Department of Agriculture was established in 1879 to oversee and promote agriculture in the Palmetto State. With services as diverse as food safety inspections, entrepreneurship development, and the Certified South Carolina branding program, we help the state’s farmers and agribusinesses grow and prosper.

The mission of the South Carolina Department of Agriculture is to promote and nurture the growth and development of South Carolina’s agriculture industry and its related businesses while assuring the safety and security of the buying public.

Cold Storage Cost Share Program

The South Carolina Department of Agriculture and South Carolina Specialty Crop Growers Association are pleased to announce continued funding for the Cold Storage Cost Share Program. Through the USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, farmers who are members of the South Carolina Specialty Crop Growers Association may receive reimbursement up to $750 for the purchasing and installing up to two (2) Cool Bot cooler systems. Nonmembers may receive reimbursement up to $325, for installing one (1) Cool Bot cooler system. The Cool-Bot utilizes a traditional window-unit air conditioner, multiple sensors, a heating element, and a programmed micro-controller to direct your air conditioner’s compressor to cool the room to 36° F, without ever freezing up.

The Circuit Trails initiative aims to enhance the Greater Philadelphia area by adding 75 miles to the existing network by 2035. This expansion will promote outdoor access, improve health and well-being, and foster economic development through non-motorized transportation. With over 411 miles currently in place, the goal is to develop a comprehensive 850-mile network across communities in Pennsylvania and New Jersey by 2040, supported by a diverse coalition of organizations.