Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Scholarships and Pathways in Neuroscience Partnership at Cedars-Sinai aims to enhance diversity in neuroscience by providing underrepresented students hands-on experience in a leading medical facility. Participants will engage in various research areas, including Alzheimer's and gene therapy, while receiving financial support for housing and relocation. This unique opportunity fosters networking and mentorship, preparing scholars for future success in the field of neuroscience.

The Firefighter Exposure to Environmental Elements Grant (FEEEG) is designed to support Ohio firefighter employers in reducing exposure to hazardous environmental factors. Eligible applicants can receive up to $15,000 for purchasing qualified protective equipment such as diesel exhaust systems and turnout gear. This grant emphasizes maintaining workers' compensation coverage and adhering to safety regulations, ensuring that firefighters are equipped for optimal protection in their duties.

The Disaster Response & Resilience Fund, managed by the Humboldt Area Foundation, supports non-profit organizations and community groups in Humboldt, Trinity, Del Norte, and Curry counties during disasters. The fund focuses on immediate needs and safety for the vulnerable, addressing challenges posed by natural and man-made disasters. By prioritizing equitable support, it aims to strengthen community resilience and ensure effective disaster response and recovery.

The Y.O.U.T.H. Mini Grant Program empowers Hillsdale County youth to create impactful projects that address community needs. Funded by the Hillsdale County Community Foundation, grants up to $500 support initiatives developed by youth aged 5-19. This program fosters leadership, creativity, and community service, allowing young leaders to shape their future while enhancing awareness of available opportunities. Through thoughtful grant-making, the foundation ensures that youth-led projects contribute positively to the community.

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 

The Benton Community Foundation Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism. The Outstanding Volunteer award goes to a volunteer 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 Phoebus Criminal Justice Initiative Grant, provided by the Bread & Roses Community Fund, supports organizations engaged in community organizing for criminal justice reform. It aims to address pressing issues such as police accountability and racially biased sentencing. By fostering collective action among marginalized communities, the initiative empowers groups to create sustainable change within the criminal legal system. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to justice and community leadership, ensuring long-term impact and engagement.

The McElhattan Foundation supports out-of-school-time learning initiatives that prioritize equitable access for children, especially those in poverty. They provide funding for programs that enhance quality learning experiences and ensure operational sustainability. Organizations can apply for general operating support or project funding. The foundation is particularly interested in proposals addressing the needs of children in Allegheny County, emphasizing programs that foster growth and connection to positive adult mentors.

The Fred Jones Family Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations in central Oklahoma, focusing on education, arts, and beautification projects. The foundation meets every 90 days to evaluate new donation requests. Eligible applicants must adhere to specific guidelines, including submitting a Board of Directors list with at least six members. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance the quality of life and foster cultural growth in the region.

Virginia Department of Fire Programs

Since 1969, Virginia has been at the forefront of firefighter training, starting with the Fire Services Training section within the State Department of Education.

Later becoming part of the Division of Fire Services Training under the State Fire Commission and eventually the Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP).

• VDFP is headquartered in Glen Allen, VA and has seven geographical boundaries with a training division chief and State Fire Marshal’s Office staff.
• VDFP is part of ten agencies under the Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security.
• VDFP administers an annual budget of $61 million and has over 90+ full–time staff, 17 part time staff and over 400 adjunct instructors who provide support and deliver our training programs through site-specific mobile training, at any of the regional training facilities or at locality training centers.

Conference & Education Assistance Grant

The Conference & Education Assistance Grant provides financial assistance for the professional development of Virginia’s fire and emergency services personnel.

• Administered by the Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP) and overseen by the Executive Director or their designee, the program aims to offer essential financial support for training conferences and seminars.

• These events, sponsored by Virginia-based non-profit organizations, enhance the education and skills of fire and emergency services personnel throughout the commonwealth.

• Grant funds shall be used for the purposes of providing training to volunteer or career firefighting personnel and funding fire prevention and public safety education courses.

The Benton Community Foundation Annual Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism.

Outstanding Philanthropic Business Award

The Benton Community Foundation Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism. The Outstanding Philanthropic Business award goes to a community-minded business 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 conduct business throughout Benton County and surrounding areas.

The Benton Community Foundation Annual Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism.

Outstanding Nonprofit Professional Award

The Benton Community Foundation Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism. The Outstanding Nonprofit Professional award recognizes an exceptional local nonprofit professional whose bold ideas, passion, and dedication have inspired others to give, collaborate, and create a lasting impact in our community. This award is open to nominees whose leadership and dedication has played a vital role in advancing the mission of nonprofits throughout Benton County and surrounding areas. 

The Shooting Range Grant Program, managed by South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, aims to enhance public shooting opportunities by funding non-profit organizations to develop and improve firearms and archery ranges. This competitive grant is supported by the Pittman-Robertson Program, which relies on federal excise taxes on shooting equipment. Eligible applicants must provide documentation such as a Unique Entity Identifier and a detailed project proposal, ensuring that enhancements are completed within 12 months of grant approval.

The Benton Community Foundation Annual Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism.

Outstanding Lifetime Achievement in Philanthropy Award

The Benton Community Foundation Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism. The Outstanding Lifetime Achievement in Philanthropy award recognizes an exceptional individual or family whose philanthropic activities have made a significant positive impact on the community. This award is open to nominees whose leadership and dedication has played a vital role in advancing causes throughout Benton County and surrounding areas.

Who is OCVA?

The Office of Crime Victims Advocacy (OCVA) is housed within the Department of Commerce. OCVA serves as a voice within government for the needs of crime victims in Washington State. Established in 1990, OCVA serves the state by:

• Advocating on behalf of victims obtaining needed services and resources.
• Administering grant funds for community programs working with crime victims.
• Assisting communities in planning and implementing services for crime victims. 
• Advising local and state government agencies of practices, policies, and priorities that impact crime victims. 

What is this application for?

This application is for victim services that meaningfully address the needs of individuals age 11 and older that have experienced sexual assault.

How much funding is available?

OCVA estimates that $260,000 will be available each year for this grant initiative.

Applicants may propose projects up to $130,000. OCVA anticipates awarding two grants. OCVA has discretion to negotiate any changes to an applicant’s scope of work and budget.

When can the funds be used?

The initial grant award period is January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2027. We anticipate the availability of renewal funding for three (3) years, through December 31, 2030. Renewal funding is contingent on the availability of funding, progress of the project, and/or any extension or amendments to the overarching statewide funding plan.

The PFF Research Fund to Cure Pulmonary Fibrosis aims to support innovative research that enhances understanding and treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. The PFF Scholars Program provides $100,000 over two years to early-stage researchers, encouraging them to pursue independent funding opportunities. Eligible applicants include post-doctoral trainees and early Assistant Professors committed to interstitial lung disease research. This initiative fosters mentorship and collaboration, ultimately advancing the field and improving patient care.

The Shackleton Academic Scholarship Programme honors Sir Ernest Shackleton's legacy by supporting graduates conducting research in the natural, physical, or social sciences in the Falkland Islands or South Georgia. Annually, awards of up to £4,000 are available to cover travel expenses, course fees, and equipment costs, but not salaries. This initiative aims to foster human endeavor and stimulate research in these unique regions, contributing to the ongoing development of the Falkland Islands.

The Pathways to Recovery - Round 2 NGO grant aims to support individuals impacted by the opioid epidemic through training, career services, and employment opportunities. It will award funds to five organizations across New Jersey's North, Central, and South regions. The initiative focuses on enhancing workforce readiness and providing essential supportive services, fostering effective transitions to employment over a 24-month period starting June 1, 2025.

The Teaching Artist Training program aims to empower arts education providers in Philadelphia by equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver high-quality, inclusive, and equitable programming for youth. Recognizing that the quality of instructors significantly influences students' experiences in the arts, the program focuses on teacher training, mentorship, and community-building initiatives. This collaborative approach seeks innovative ideas from local communities to enhance arts education opportunities, ensuring they are welcoming and relevant for young learners.

The David B. Jones Foundation Grant supports educational, research, and charitable initiatives in paleontology within the United States. Established in 1998, it offers various funding types, including one-time, multiyear, and challenge grants, focusing on projects that promote the science of paleontology. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) organizations aligned with the foundation's mission, prioritizing programs that engage young fossil hunters and public education through museums. The foundation does not fund individual requests or religious organizations.

The Partners in Science Grant Program, funded by the M J Murdock Charitable Trust, connects secondary school science teachers with research mentors to enhance their teaching and research skills. This innovative initiative offers renewable three-year grants to universities, supporting partnerships that foster professional growth through hands-on research experiences. Teachers engage in two annual conferences, allowing them to share findings and best practices, ultimately enriching the educational landscape and improving student engagement in scientific inquiry.

The Western SARE Graduate Student Research and Education Grant Program supports innovative research and educational outreach in sustainable agriculture. Funded by the USDA, it aims to enhance environmental quality, improve profitability for producers, and uplift rural communities. Projects must involve both research and education components, with proposals authored by graduate students collaborating with their advisors. This initiative fosters communication of results to agricultural professionals, ensuring practical applications for sustainable practices in the Western U.S.

The Aaaron Ardoin Foundation offers Research and Education Grants aimed at supporting organizations that address the needs of individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease. With a focus on funding programs that advance awareness, treatment, and care, the foundation reviews grant requests biannually. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to initiatives directly benefiting the sickle cell community, ensuring that funds are utilized efficiently and effectively.

 Housing Stabilization Program

The Housing Stabilization Program assists low-income families who are receiving a state Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) grant and are homeless or are unstably housed and at risk of becoming homeless. 

HSP funds can pay for:

• Housing-related costs
• Case management and program delivery costs 

HSP is funded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through a grant from the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. ODHS allocates funds to Oregon Housing and Community Services biennially. Oregon Housing and Community Services allocates funds to community action agencies annually.

The Greater Cincinnati African American Scholarship Fund, administered by the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, offers scholarships for high school seniors in the Greater Cincinnati area. With awards ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, the program aims to support students pursuing higher education. Since its inception in 2002, it has awarded over $170,000 in scholarships, empowering local youth to achieve their academic goals and contribute positively to their communities.

The AGRI Livestock Investment Grant, offered by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, provides funding for livestock operations to enhance infrastructure and equipment. Eligible projects can receive up to 10% of total costs, with grants ranging from $400 to $25,000 for improvements in livestock housing and facilities. Applications are accepted for efforts that modernize operations, with a project completion deadline of three years. This initiative aims to support sustainable growth in Minnesota's agricultural sector.

The Mellon Foundation Native American Scholars Initiative (NASI) Predoctoral Fellowship offers a $25,000 stipend for a nine-month residential fellowship aimed at advanced doctoral students engaged with Indigenous communities. Successful applicants will receive additional funding for travel, relocation, and health insurance costs. This opportunity encourages collaboration and research at the American Philosophical Society's Library & Museum, fostering connections between scholars and Indigenous communities throughout the Americas.

Support Innovation in Community Based Mental Health Services

DHS, though its Behavioral Health Administration, is seeking to innovate and improve accessibility and quality of community-based, outpatient mental health services and reduce the number of clients admitted to regional treatment centers and community behavioral health hospitals.

DHS is seeking to Support Innovation in Community Based Mental Health Services.

DHS, though its Behavioral Health Administration, is seeking to innovate and improve accessibility and quality of community-based, outpatient mental health services and reduce the number of clients admitted to regional treatment centers and community behavioral health hospitals.

The term of any resulting contract is anticipated to be for two years, from January 1, 2027 until December 31, 2028. STATE may extend the contract up to a total of five (5) years, subject to the availability of funds and contract performance. 

Funding Availability

Approximately $2,225,000 is available to qualified grantees; $1,112,500 will be awarded to qualified grantees covering rural Minnesota and $1,112,500 will be awarded to qualified grantees covering metro Minnesota. An applicant may apply for, and the commissioner may award grants for two-year periods. The commissioner may reallocate underspending among grantees within the same grant period. The mental health innovation account is established under Minnesota Statutes, section 246.18 for ongoing funding.