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Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

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

32,000+

Available grants

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$9.00B total
$6K median

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32,423 Results based on applied filters

Nonprofit Security Grant Program: NSGP - State (NSGP-S)

Indiana Department of Homeland Security
State/Local Government
Adams County, Indiana, Allen County, Indiana +88 more
Up to US $4,700,000

About the Indiana Department of Homeland Security

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) leads Indiana's emergency planning and operations, first responder training and fire and building safety. The State Fire Marshal and State Building Commissioner oversee fire and building safety efforts, including the enforcement of building codes and a fire investigations unit. The agency certifies and trains thousands of first responders and hosts state-level exercises each year. IDHS also supports county emergency management agencies and runs the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC), which leads response and coordination efforts for large-scale incidents.

Nonprofit Security Grant Program

Executive Summary

The NSGP improves and increases the physical/cybersecurity and facility/target hardening of nonprofit organizations’ facilities at risk of a terrorist of other extremist attack, ultimately safeguarding the lives and property of the American people.

There are two funding sources appropriated for nonprofit organizations: 1) NSGP - Urban Area (NSGP-UA), and 2) NSGP - State (NSGP-S)

NSGP - State (NSGP-S)

NSGP-S funds nonprofit organizations located outside of a FY 2025 Designated highrisk urban area. Under NSGP-S, each state will receive an allocation for nonprofit organizations in the state located outside of FY 2025 Designated high-risk urban areas.

NSGP-S: Nonprofit organization must be located outside of Marion and Hamilton counties.

Domestic / Homeland Security Cybersecurity Nonprofit Growth & Development

Training Center of Expertise: Promoting Health Equity to Improve Community Health Outcomes

New York State Department of Health
State/Local Government
New York
Up to US $1,000,000

Training Center of Expertise: Promoting Health Equity to Improve Community Health Outcomes

The purpose of this Request for Applications is to support a statewide Training Center of Expertise in Health Equity. The Training Center of Expertise will be responsible for implementing a range of innovative training interventions to build the capacity of health and human services providers, health care facilities, community-based organizations (CBOs), and communities to employ a health equity framework to improve health outcomes for New York State residents. These trainings are directed towards:

  • Executive directors, administrators, and program managers;
  • Physicians, other prescribers, and nurses; and
  • Social workers, care coordinators, support services providers, community health workers/ educators, and peer workers.

The funded training center will be expected to tailor trainings to meet the unique needs of each designated training audience, including regional or population-specific needs.

Available Funding

A total of up to $200,000 annually in New York State and Health Research, Inc. (federal) funding is available to support a program funded through this Request for Applications. Applicants should be prepared to provide training and capacity building services across New York State and able to address the unique needs of health facilities and Community–Based Organizations, executive directors, administrators, program managers, physicians and other prescribers, nurses, social workers, care coordinators, support services providers, community health workers/educators, and peer workers. The intent of the Request for Applications (RFA) is to fund one (1) training center at the level of $200,000 annually for five (5) years.

Wellness & Healthy Living Medical Education & Professional Training

Redeploy Illinois - Planning Grant (IL)

Illinois Department of Human Services: Division of Family & Community Services
State/Local Government
Illinois
US $5,000 - US $25,000
The Redeploy Illinois - Planning Grant is designed to provide funding to counties and groups of counties, including areas in Cook County, to implement community-based sanctions and treatment alternatives for juvenile offenders. This initiative aims to reduce youth incarceration by establishing local services that cater to those under juvenile court jurisdiction. Eligible funding amounts range from $5,000 to $25,000 per county, depending on case analysis and participation.
Juvenile Justice

LFW: Partnership Grants

The Legal Foundation of Washington
Private
Washington
Unspecified amount
The Legal Foundation of Washington offers Partnership Grants to support civil legal aid organizations serving low-income individuals across the state. These grants provide essential operating funds, promoting stability and encouraging long-term planning within the civil justice sector. By partnering with organizations focused on direct legal aid and systemic advocacy, LFW aims to enhance equity in access to justice. The application process includes a Letter of Intent, with funding decisions influenced by previous awards and the overall impact on legal aid coverage.
Legal Services Civil Rights

Angler Recruitment, Retention and Reactivation Grant Program

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Angler Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation Grant Program, managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, aims to increase angling participation among diverse adult audiences in Wisconsin. This program provides financial support to eligible organizations for activities that foster a safe and ethical fishing experience. By promoting community engagement and education, the grant seeks to enhance the number of active anglers, ensuring sustainable fishing practices and preserving Wisconsin's natural resources.
Sport Fishing

Strengthening Civics Education in Appalachian Ohio RFA

Foundation for Appalachian Ohio
Private
Adams County, Ohio, Ashtabula County, Ohio +30 more
US $500 - US $10,000
The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, in collaboration with the Longaberger Family Foundation, is dedicated to enhancing K-12 civics education across Appalachian Ohio. Since 2019, over $95,000 has been granted to empower students through engaging civics programs. The funding is available to K-12 public schools, educators, and nonprofit organizations, focusing on projects that foster civic engagement and community involvement among students in the region's 32 counties.
Civic Engagement & Education Education - K through 12

Fairs Capital Improvement Grant Program

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Up to US $25,000
The Fairs Capital Improvement Grant Program in Pennsylvania offers grants up to $25,000 for certified agricultural fairs to improve their fairgrounds. Projects must include a dollar-for-dollar cash match from the fair, ensuring that funds are used for permanent improvements such as construction, renovation, and utility upgrades. This program aims to enhance the facilities that support the agricultural community, promoting sustainability and improving visitor experiences at fairs.
Agriculture Parks & Public Spaces

Literacy for Life Grants

California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom
Private
California
Unspecified amount
The Literacy for Life Grants, funded by the California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom, aim to foster agricultural literacy among K-12 students in California. With grants up to $500, educators can initiate or expand projects integrating agriculture into their curriculum. This initiative not only supports educational growth but also recognizes outstanding educators making a significant impact on their students' learning experiences. Explore various project ideas to inspire innovative agricultural education in classrooms.
Agricultural Education

David E. and Cassie L. Temple Foundation Grants

David E And Cassie L Temple Foundation
Private
Tulsa County, Oklahoma
Unspecified amount
The David E. and Cassie L. Temple Foundation offers grants to support educational and humanitarian needs, prioritizing organizations that foster spiritual transformation. Established by Tulsa educators David and Cassie Temple in 1995, the foundation aims to utilize its resources to benefit children and families in the Tulsa Metropolitan Area while maintaining a commitment to 501(c)(3) organizations. Notably, grants are not awarded to individuals or for events.
Education Basic Human Needs Religion & Spirituality

American Welding Society (AWS) National Scholarships

American Welding Society Inc
Private
United States
US $2,500 - US $10,000

American Welding Society (AWS) National Scholarships

The National Scholarships are the most prestigious, high-dollar scholarships offered by the AWS Foundation. More than 130 donor-funded scholarships, totaling over $700,000, are available for students pursuing a bachelor’s or associate degree in welding or a related discipline. Scholarships range from $2,500-$10,000+. Applicants are required to submit two references and official transcripts.

National Scholarships are a crucial component of a country's commitment to promoting education and providing opportunities for its citizens to excel academically. These scholarships are designed to recognize and support outstanding students, enabling them to pursue their educational goals and contribute to the development of their nation.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Ohio War Orphan & Severely Disabled Veterans' Children Scholarship Program (WOS) (OH)

Ohio Department of Higher Education
State/Local Government
Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Ohio War Orphan & Severely Disabled Veterans' Children Scholarship Program provides tuition assistance to children of deceased or severely disabled veterans. Eligible students attending Ohio public institutions receive 79% of tuition and fees, while those in private colleges receive an annual award of $6,618. Students must be Ohio residents, enrolled full-time, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.00. This program supports those aged 16 to 24 pursuing higher education.
Education - Higher Education Military & Veterans Services

Kristian Fauchald Polychaete Research Fellowship

Smithsonian Institution (SI)
Federal Government
District of Columbia
Up to US $10,000
The Kristian Fauchald Polychaete Research Fellowship offers funding for polychaete biologists at all career stages to conduct independent research at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. This fellowship promotes global collaboration in polychaete studies, providing access to extensive resources and facilities. Fellowships are awarded biannually, supporting projects of one week to six months, with eligible expenses including relocation and research costs. Applicants must engage actively in collections-based research and contact the curator before applying.
Invertebrate Zoology

American Welding Society (AWS) Foundation Research Fellowships

American Welding Society Inc
Private
North America
Up to US $105,000

American Welding Society (AWS) Foundation Research Fellowships

The American Welding Society (AWS) Foundation seeks to foster university research in joining and to recognize outstanding faculty and student talent. We are again requesting your proposals for consideration by the AWS Foundation.

The Research Fellowships are $35,000 per year. $17,500 installments are paid following the submission of progress statements on November 1 and March 1. Proposals may be funded for a period of up to three years, however, renewal applications must be submitted for the second and third years. Renewal by AWS will be contingent on demonstration of reasonable progress in the research or in graduate studies.

The AWS Fellowship is awarded to the student for graduate research toward a Masters or Ph.D. Degree under a sponsoring professor at a North American University. The qualifications of the Graduate Student are key elements to be considered in the award. The academic credentials, plans, and research history (if any) of the student should be provided in the application package.

The student must prepare the proposal for the AWS Fellowship. However, the proposal must be developed under the guidance of a professor and accompanied by letters of recommendation from the sponsoring professor and others acquainted with the student's technical capabilities. Should the student selected by AWS be unable to accept the Fellowship or continue with the research at any time during the period of the award, the award will be forfeited, and no further funding will be provided by the AWS Foundation. The bulk of funding should be for student support.

Topics for the AWS Fellowship may span the full range of the joining industry. Proposals for both applied and fundamental research topics are welcome.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Nonprofit Security Grant Program: NSGP - Urban Area (NSGP-UA)

Indiana Department of Homeland Security
State/Local Government
Hamilton County, Indiana, Marion County, Indiana
US $261,630 - US $29,938,456

About the Indiana Department of Homeland Security

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) leads Indiana's emergency planning and operations, first responder training and fire and building safety. The State Fire Marshal and State Building Commissioner oversee fire and building safety efforts, including the enforcement of building codes and a fire investigations unit. The agency certifies and trains thousands of first responders and hosts state-level exercises each year. IDHS also supports county emergency management agencies and runs the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC), which leads response and coordination efforts for large-scale incidents.

Nonprofit Security Grant Program

Executive Summary

The NSGP improves and increases the physical/cybersecurity and facility/target hardening of nonprofit organizations’ facilities at risk of a terrorist of other extremist attack, ultimately safeguarding the lives and property of the American people.

There are two funding sources appropriated for nonprofit organizations: 1) NSGP - Urban Area (NSGP-UA), and 2) NSGP - State (NSGP-S)

NSGP - Urban Area (NSGP-UA)

NSGP-UA funds nonprofit organizations located within FY 2025 designated high-risk urban areas. Under NSGP-UA, each urban area will receive an allocation for nonprofit organizations within FY 2025 designated high-risk urban areas.

NSGP-UA: Nonprofit organization must be located within Marion and Hamilton counties.

Domestic / Homeland Security Nonprofit Growth & Development Cybersecurity

J. Alvin George Outstanding Volunteer Award

CALIFORNIA CREDIT UNION LEAGUE
Private
California
Unspecified amount

Rooted in Purpose. Focused on Progress.

California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions are the trade associations representing credit unions across both states. For more than 90 years, we’ve united and empowered credit unions to better serve more than 13.5 million members — providing advocacy, resources, and leadership that strengthen the entire movement.

Each year, California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions honor distinguished industry leaders and volunteers during the Leagues’ REACH Conference. 

J. Alvin George Outstanding Volunteer Award

This award honors significant contributions by people who serve credit unions in volunteer capacities, such as a director or committee member. It was renamed in 2013 in honor of the long-time credit union volunteer, J. Alvin George, who passed away that same year.

Volunteerism & Philanthropy

Delta Dental of Missouri: Community Donation Program

Delta Dental of MIssouri
Private
Missouri, South Carolina
Up to US $5,000
Delta Dental of Missouri's Community Donation Program aims to enhance community health through charitable contributions, focusing on organizations that serve Missouri and South Carolina. Preference is given to those with an oral health component. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) registered, address the needs of at-risk populations, and be represented by an authorized member for support requests. This initiative underlines Delta Dental's commitment to community well-being and support.
Health Care Access & Delivery Dental Health

NHSCA Arts Project Grants

New Hampshire State Council on the Arts
State/Local Government
New Hampshire
US $2,000 - US $75,000

New Hampshire State Council on the Arts

The State Arts Council was established in 1965 as the official state arts agency with legislation (RSA 19-A) designed "to insure that the role of the arts in the life of our communities will continue to grow and play an ever more significant part in the welfare and educational experience of our citizens." The NHSCA is advised by a 15-member council that meets at least four times a year. Councilors are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Executive Council.

Funding for competitive grants and program services to benefit New Hampshire's citizens is made possible through appropriations from the New Hampshire State Legislature and from a partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. The State of New Hampshire also accepts private, tax-deductible donations and bequests that may be designated for the sole purpose of helping the Arts Council fulfill its enabling legislation.

Arts Project Grants

Arts Project Grants support initiatives that use the arts to strengthen communities.

Arts Project Grants support initiatives that use the arts to strengthen communities and individual wellbeing, enrich K–12 learning, and promote values that encourage creativity and positive impact for the project participants, ultimately helping to build stronger communities across New Hampshire. The intended program recipients are individuals across New Hampshire, including students, families, older adults, individuals with disabilities, military and veterans, law enforcement, and those experiencing physical or mental health challenges. By expanding access to arts experiences that inform, educate, and foster strong, healthy communities, the program reflects the Arts Council’s commitment to supporting meaningful, high-quality arts engagement for all.

In accordance with the program’s funding priorities, proposals from schools, hospitals, mental health providers, facilities that assist military and/or veterans, law enforcement, and municipalities will be reviewed with elevated weighting to support services that directly benefit community well-being.

Arts / Culture Access & Participation Art for Social Change

Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) Grants

Virginia Department of Forestry
State/Local Government
Virginia
Unspecified amount
The Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) Grants, administered by the Virginia Department of Forestry, provide crucial funding to support rural volunteer fire departments. These grants offer a 50% reimbursement for the purchase of personal protective equipment, tools, and equipment, ensuring effective wildfire suppression in Virginia. With a matching fund requirement, departments must invest in approved items to access reimbursement, fostering community engagement and resource allocation for fire safety.
Firefighting & Fire Prevention

Easton Legacy Fund Grant

Southcoast Community Foundation
Private
Bristol County, Massachusetts
Up to US $3,500
The Easton Legacy Fund Grant, managed by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life in Easton, MA. Established to support nonprofit initiatives, it prioritizes projects that promote arts, culture, recreation, and local history. Eligible organizations must serve the Easton community, have 501(c)(3) status, and can request grants up to $3,500. This fund advocates for philanthropic endeavors that foster community engagement and well-being.
Art & Culture Recreation Community Culture & Heritage

Legacy Foundation: Community Spirit Award

Legacy Foundation: Lake County's Community Foundation
Private
Lake County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Legacy Foundation's Community Spirit Award honors individuals who have made significant contributions to enhance the quality of life in Lake County, Indiana. This prestigious award celebrates those who demonstrate a commitment to community improvement and inclusivity. By recognizing outstanding efforts, the Legacy Foundation aims to inspire others and foster a spirit of philanthropy. With a mission to create an equitable environment for all, the award underscores the importance of community engagement and support for local initiatives.
Volunteerism & Philanthropy

Community Partnership Grant

Sons Of Norway Foundation
Private
Norway, United States
Up to US $5,000
The Community Partnership Grant, administered by the Sons of Norway Foundation, offers up to $5,000 for projects that promote and preserve Norwegian culture and heritage. Open to individuals and groups from Norway and the U.S., the grant encourages initiatives that reflect the foundation's core values such as lifelong learning and community generosity. Applications must be submitted online in English and should demonstrate a commitment to celebrating Norwegian cultural traditions.
Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges Community Culture & Heritage

McDonough Foundation Grant

Bernard McDonough Foundation
Private
Washington County, Ohio, West Virginia
Unspecified amount
The McDonough Foundation Grant aims to enhance communities in West Virginia by providing funding to nonprofits focused on social welfare. Prioritizing tax-exempt organizations under IRS Code 501(c)(3), the foundation supports initiatives that address basic human needs. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with applicants limited to one grant per calendar year. This commitment helps local organizations overcome resource limitations and fosters community growth through targeted financial support.
Basic Human Needs Health Care Access & Delivery

Texas K-12 Cybersecurity Initiative

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
Unspecified amount

Texas K-12 Cybersecurity Initiative

The purpose of this initiative is to provide immediate solutions to protect Texas school systems from major cyber incidents, such as ransomware. In addition to delivering near-term protections, the initiative will assist school systems in maturing their overall cybersecurity programs by strengthening governance, processes, and technical capabilities. The initiative will also provide cybersecurity learning opportunities and training to build local capacity, increase cybersecurity awareness, and support the long-term sustainability of security practices across participating school systems. Priority will be given to high-need school systems, and technical assistance will be available through regional ESCs to support the implementation of cybersecurity controls within the scope of this initiative.

Education - K through 12 Cybersecurity

LCF: The John and Mary Alford Foundation Grant

Licking County Foundation
Private
Licking County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The John and Mary Alford Foundation Grant, established in 1996 by Ronald B. Alford and Barbara Alford Cantlin, aims to enhance the quality of life in Licking County through support for educational, social, religious, and cultural programs. The Licking County Foundation, a private charitable organization, manages this grant, ensuring it serves community needs while promoting philanthropic leadership. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) charities, with a focus on projects that have broad community impact.
Education Human & Social Services Religion & Spirituality +1 more

Jewish Federation of Greater Portland: Gather Grant

Jewish Federation Of Greater Portland
Private
Clackamas County, Oregon, Clark County, Washington +4 more
Up to US $180

Jewish Federation of Greater Portland: Gather Grant

Get up to $180 to host an event at the place and with the people you choose

Holiday meals can be larger and therefore more costly. We've got you!

If you are hosting 6-9 folks the subsidy is $120, but if you are hosting 10+ people outside your household, Gather Grants will reimburse you up to $180. 

How to use the Grant

You can spend the Gather Grant in whatever way you need to bring your event to life! Some examples include:

  • Food: ingredients, pick-up, or dine out!
  • Supplies: decorations, art supplies, books, paper goods,
  • Tickets (movies, activities, events)
Jewish Culture

Tribal Cultural Council Program

Mass Cultural Council
State/Local Government
Massachusetts
US $250 - US $750
The Tribal Cultural Council Program, administered by the Mass Cultural Council, empowers Tribal Cultural Councils to distribute funds for arts, humanities, and science initiatives within their communities. This program prioritizes local decision-making, allowing councils to tailor eligibility requirements based on community input. TCCs can fund diverse projects, from artist residencies to public art and community events, while ensuring a minimum grant amount of $250 to support impactful initiatives.
Native American Culture & Heritage

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.

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.