Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

New Investigator Award in Spinal Cord Injury Research (Round 1)

Approximately 1,100 New York residents suffer a traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) each year, joining the estimated six million people in the United States who are living with paralysis and othereffects of SCI. The personal and economic costs to these persons, their families and to society are immense. Since 1998, the New York State Spinal Cord Injury Research Board (SCIRB) advises the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), Extramural Grants Administration (EGA) regarding research focused on cures for SCI and SCI-induced paralysis.

The SCIRB’s mission and goal is to:

• Seek major advances toward a cure and not simply incremental research gains or incremental improvements for SCI patients
• Support research that tests novel hypotheses and/or advances innovative research approaches that could move the field of SCI research significantly toward discovering a cure for SCI.

Purpose of the Funds

The SCIRB wishes to stimulate the growth of SCI research and to accelerate the pace with which basic (preclinical) findings are translated into clinical benefits for spinal cord-injured persons. In addition, SCIRB wishes to fill fundamental gaps in knowledge that are barriers to scientific advances in SCI research. The goal is to expend $8.5 million for SCI research every State fiscal year.

The Request for Applications (RFA) supports investigators new to the field of SCI research at different stages of career development. This award enables such investigators to compete for funding separately from investigators with established programs of SCI research. The intent of this initiative is to increase the pool of outstanding basic and clinical researchers actively studying SCI in New York State and thereby accelerate our progress toward the goals of the SCIRB mission. As such, The New Investigator Award aligns with the central goals of the SCIRB mission. Previous experience in SCI research is allowed, but not required. However, applications naming a Principal Investigator (PI) with limited background in SCI research are strongly encouraged to include collaboration with investigators who are experiences in SCI research and/or possess other relevant expertise to strengthen the application. 

The Families First Community Grants, administered by the Tennessee Department of Human Services, aim to empower low-income families by facilitating access to employment and essential support services. Through collaboration with local non-profits, this initiative seeks to enhance independence and self-sufficiency among families across Tennessee, fostering a stronger community. Organizations that align with this mission are encouraged to apply and partner in this transformative effort.

Rebuild Alabama Annual Grant Program (RAA)

The RAA Annual Grant Program is an ALDOT administered transportation infrastructure grant program for projects of local interest created in the Rebuild Alabama Act of 2019.

Projects may be submitted for improvements to any classified road or bridge open to public traffic.

Funding

The RAA Annual Grant Program was established by Legislative Act #2019-2. The program allocates no less than $10 million annually to eligible projects as identified by ALDOT during a fiscal year.

The total funding allocated for the FY 2026 program will be $15 million. $10 million of the FY 2026 allocation will be awarded with no local match required. The maximum amount of funding that can be requested per project with no match required will be $250,000. $5 million of the FY 2026 allocation will be awarded with a 50 percent local match required. Any RAA Annual Grant funding requested over $250,000 will require a dollar-for-dollar local match from the sponsor, up to a maximum of $100,000 per project.

Therefore, the maximum amount of total RAA Annual Grant funding that can be requested per project is $250,000 with no local match required, or $350,000 with a local match of $100,000.

PennDOT Behavioral Highway Safety Grants

PennDOT’s Behavioral Traffic Safety Unit offers traffic safety grants to support local communities and organizations working to make Pennsylvania’s roads safer. Eligible applicants include local governments, universities within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, Pennsylvania state related universities, and nonprofit organizations.

These grants are funded through federal programs administered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) under 23 U.S.C. §402 and §405. Funding follows the federal fiscal year, which runs from October 1 through September 30.

Grant opportunities focus on proven, data driven strategies that address the most urgent traffic safety challenges across the Commonwealth. Available funds are allocated using formulas based on crash data to ensure resources are directed where they can make the greatest impact.

Child Passenger Safety Educational Initiatives

Supplements efforts provided by the existing statewide child passenger safety project organized by the PA Traffic Injury Prevention Project (PA TIPP) by providing additional trainings for CPS technicians across the state, broaden outreach efforts, and distribute car seats to underserved communities.

The Youth Sports- Salina Youth Baseball Fund Grant, established in 2000 by Larry Britegam, aims to support children in Saline County, KS who wish to participate in baseball but face financial barriers. Grants are available for individual players covering costs such as registration, uniforms, and equipment. Preference is given to players qualifying for free or reduced lunches. The fund is sustained by generous donations, ensuring continued support for youth baseball each year.

The Title II Formula Grant (AZ) supports initiatives under the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act by funding programs that address challenges faced by youth within the juvenile justice system. Administered by the Arizona Governor's Office of Youth, Faith and Family, the grant allows eligible Arizona entities, including local governments and non-profits, to apply for funding up to $100,000. This initiative aims to ensure compliance with core juvenile justice requirements while enhancing community support for at-risk youth.

Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are accepted from mid-November until mid-March. Scholarship award recipients will be announced at the high school awards ceremony. 

Wyoming County Community Health Foundation Scholarship

Established by the Wyoming County Community Health Foundation to provide tuition assistance to a graduating high school senior who resides in Wyoming County and will major in the health care field.

Preparation for Adult Living (TX)

The State of Texas, by and through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) on behalf of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) Child Protective Services (CPS) Program seeks Applicants to provide Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) Life Skills Training and Assessment Services in an effective and efficient manner in DFPS Regions 7-11 to DFPS Youth and Young Adults to help them successfully transition to adulthood

Estimated Total Available Funding :

• $3,480,950.00 

Estimated max award

• $696,190.00

The Robert D. Hevey, Jr. and Constance M. Filling Fellowship in Invertebrate Zoology offers short-term fellowships for graduate students researching invertebrate zoology at the National Museum of Natural History. This ten-week program, which includes a stipend of $10,000 and a research allowance of $5,000, prioritizes applicants who have not previously conducted research at NMNH. Fluency in English and full-time residency at NMNH are required for eligibility.

Smith Atwell Girls Recreational Grant Program

The Smith Atwell Girls Recreational Grant Program seeks to provide funding for programs that empower and encourage girls and young women to be involved in athletic and outdoor recreational opportunities. This grant supports a nonprofit agency located in Greene County, Missouri which provides programming to support athletic and outdoor recreational opportunities for girls and young women. Equipment, programming, or training to assist in supporting athletic and recreational opportunities for girls and young women are eligible for application.

This grant will provide $500 to one agency in the summer of 2026. 

In awarding grants, the CFO will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran status. Grantees must not, in the use of CFO grant funds, discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran status either in its employment practices or in its policies and procedures concerning access to services.

The Rare Pediatric Diseases Research Grant Program is a groundbreaking initiative by the Florida Department of Health aimed at fostering innovative research and treatment solutions for rare pediatric diseases. With an annual funding pool of $500,000, the program seeks to enhance research capacities, explore novel therapeutic approaches, and address the needs of underserved populations. This grant is exclusively available to Florida-based institutions, emphasizing collaborative efforts to improve children's health outcomes in the state.

The Betty and Roy Erickson Charitable Fund for Nursing Grant aims to advance nursing education in East Texas. Established by Betty and Roy Erickson, this fund supports various needs such as special projects, equipment, and supplies for nursing programs. Eligible applicants include public colleges and nonprofit institutions located in designated East Texas counties, ensuring services are accessible to all community members regardless of race or religion.

The Marshall Scholarship offers talented Americans the opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom, fostering future leaders through a deep engagement with British society. Each year, up to fifty scholars are awarded funding for one to two years, covering tuition and living expenses. The program aims to enhance academic achievement while promoting cultural exchange and understanding between the USA and the UK, enriching the scholars' personal and professional lives.

Scranton Area Community Foundation

For over 70 years, the Scranton Area Community Foundation has served Northeastern Pennsylvania as a steward of charitable resources, a grantmaker, and a catalyst for positive change. Guided by our core values of collaboration, trust, integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, we work to ensure that our communities thrive with opportunities for all.

Scholarships

We are honored to be the stewards of over 90 scholarship funds established by philanthropically-minded individuals in our community. Generous donors entrust us to connect them to dynamic students to provide financial resources for their education through scholarships. Our donors establish scholarship funds with criteria they wish to be met by applicants. Our scholarship committee considers the criteria, evaluates the submitted applications, and chooses the best candidates for each scholarship.

Stanley and Stella Becker Environmental Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior who is a resident of Monroe County and intends to pursue a degree in a field related to environmental science in a school of higher education.

The STOP Violence Against Women Grant (AZ) empowers Arizona entities to combat violence against women through funding and support for law enforcement, prosecution, and victim services. With approximately $3.3 million available annually, the grant prioritizes programs that enhance victim safety and hold offenders accountable, while requiring a 25% non-federal match. Eligible applicants include non-profits, tribal entities, and government agencies, ensuring a broad coalition to address these critical issues.

The Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers U.S. citizens and graduating Harvard College seniors opportunities for international graduate study, research, and teaching in over 140 countries. With approximately 2,000 awards granted annually, the program covers transportation, living expenses, and health benefits. It promotes cultural exchange through direct interaction, allowing grantees to engage with local communities and gain diverse perspectives. For more details, applicants should consult the specific country summaries available on the Fulbright website.

The AAAS Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellowship is a prestigious 10-week summer program designed for science, engineering, and mathematics students to work at media organizations across the U.S. This fellowship enhances public understanding of science by equipping fellows with skills to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively. Participants will receive an $8000 stipend and gain invaluable experience in journalism, fostering collaboration between scientists and media professionals to create engaging science stories for the public.

Beckley Area Foundation

Beckley Area Foundation was established in January 1985 by ten community-minded citizens. It began with a gift of $1.1 million from the Dr. Thomas Walker Memorial Health Foundation as “seed” money for this Raleigh County project. BAF assets have grown to over $70 million with over 500 different funds managed by our three trustee banks. Today, Beckley Area Foundation is one of West Virginia’s largest community foundations.

Since its inception, BAF has distributed over $23 million to charities and other worthy projects in the fields of education, public recreation, health & human services, the arts, animal services and beautification.

Scholarships

The Beckley Area Foundation proudly manages scholarship funds established by individuals, businesses, and organizations dedicated to helping students pursue higher education. Many of these scholarships are tailored for specific schools, fields of study, or graduates from local high schools, while others offer broader opportunities. No matter the path, our scholarships aim to support students from our region as they work toward achieving their educational goals.

Most of these scholarships must be awarded to students from our geographic area or at least preference given to such students. While the majority of scholarships benefit Raleigh County applicants there are others designated for Fayette, Summers, Webster, and Wyoming students. 

Mary Louise Klaus Scholarship

A need and merit based scholarship; for Raleigh County, WV high school graduates continuing their education at any accredited vocational school, college or university.

This scholarship is renewable.

The Ride to the Wild Fund Grant, established by Bill and Melissa Zielinski, supports Humboldt County K-12 teachers by covering transportation costs for educational field trips to local natural areas. This initiative aligns with the funding priorities of the Humboldt Area Foundation and Wild Rivers Community Foundation, which focus on equity, economic development, and environmental health. Grants typically cover the average cost of a bus for a single outing, encouraging hands-on nature experiences for students.

About the Awards

The Benton Community Foundation’s Philanthropic Achievement Awards brings together nonprofit leaders, business leaders, and community members to recognize outstanding achievements in philanthropy in Benton County.

The event showcases the hard work of our talented, generous community, and celebrates the people and organizations that volunteer, donate, and inspire others to create a bright future for families and children.

Outstanding Volunteer Group Award

The Benton Community Foundation Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism. The Outstanding Volunteer Group award goes to a group of volunteers who donates their time, expertise, and energy without compensation and shows significant dedication to advancing the mission of the organizations with whom they choose to partner. This award is open to nominees who have volunteered with organizations throughout Benton County and surrounding areas.

The Alfred Bersted Foundation Grants aim to support quality educational, human services, and healthcare programs for underserved populations in DeKalb, DuPage, Kane, and McHenry counties, Illinois. Established in 1972, the foundation typically offers one-year grants and prioritizes organizations with a physical presence in these areas. Notably, grants are not awarded to degree-conferring institutions or for endowment campaigns, ensuring resources are focused on immediate community needs.

The Endangered Species Conservation and Recovery Grant Program, administered by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, aims to support state initiatives for the conservation and recovery of federally threatened and endangered species. Funded through federal sources, this program encourages collaborative project development with CDFW staff and partner organizations. Eligible applicants must provide at least 25% in matching funds, ensuring a commitment to the protection of vulnerable inland and marine species under the Endangered Species Act.

The Tourism Event Growth & Sustainability (TEGS) Program offers marketing and technical assistance to boost tourism events in New Mexico. Through the Event Cooperative Marketing initiative, events can secure up to $15,000 in funding with a 2:1 matching investment. Marketing efforts should focus on areas outside New Mexico, with specific advertising guidelines to enhance visibility and reach. Applicants must demonstrate an online presence to qualify for funding.

The Tourism Event Growth & Sustainability (TEGS) Program in New Mexico offers sponsorship up to $50,000 for qualifying tourism events. To secure funding, applicants must demonstrate a marketing plan, financial budget, and the potential for brand impressions equal to the sponsorship amount. Events are required to adhere to New Mexico True brand standards and must provide relevant economic impact data. This initiative aims to foster growth and sustainability within the state's tourism sector.

The Tourism Event Growth & Sustainability (TEGS) Program aims to enhance and sustain tourism events in New Mexico by providing vital technical assistance, marketing support, and sponsorship. This initiative helps qualified events improve their operations and visibility, enabling them to secure funding for approved deliverables up to $5,000. By partnering with local government entities, eligible applicants can showcase their commitment and readiness to elevate their events, fostering long-term growth in the tourism sector.

Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are accepted from mid-November until mid-March. Scholarship award recipients will be announced at the high school awards ceremony. 

Mariano and Maria Lampazzi Fiaschi Memorial Scholarship

Established by Colonel Peter Fiaschi in memory of his parents, this scholarship is awarded to a graduating student from Susquehanna Community School District who intends to pursue a major in healthcare. The scholarship provides financial support for up to four years of college, contingent upon the recipient maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0 and remaining in good standing within an accredited healthcare program.

Utah Division of Arts & Museums

As the first and oldest state arts agency in the nation, the Utah Division of Arts & Museums (UA&M) celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2025.  

UA&M Mission: Our agency enhances Utah’s quality of life. We champion opportunities to experience culture by investing in arts and museums, offering professional development, facilitating connections, and providing direct services.

Our agency acts as a state coordinator and advisor on topics of importance to arts and museums communities. We manage the State of Utah Alice Merrill Horne Art Collection, the Utah Percent-for-Art Act public art program, and traveling exhibitions, reaching every county in the state. UA&M is the primary agency in Utah that distributes state and federal funds to stimulate and encourage growth in the creative industries. These funds are appropriated directly for arts and museums by both the Utah State Legislature and the National Endowment for the Arts. We are a division of the Department of Cultural & Community Engagement within Utah state government.

Creative Aging Grant

Our Creative Aging program fosters a network of cultural organizations, senior service organizations, libraries, and artists who are trained in creative aging best practices.

This grant is available to organizations or artists who participated in the Lifetime Arts 'Foundations' or 'Essentials' training.

Program Impact

Utah Division of Arts & Museums (UA&M) has been training Utahns in the best practices of creative aging and funding grants for creative aging projects for four years. Our Creative Aging Grant projects pay a professional artist to teach an art class to adults 55 years and older. These classes teach older adults an art form and celebrate their accomplishments at the end of the class. Older adults in Utah have learned a variety of artforms, including dance, theatre, fused glass, ceramics, watercolor, music appreciation, printmaking, and many more. These classes reduce isolation by providing older adults an opportunity to foster meaningful connections.