Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The MO Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) empowers agricultural producers to enhance their conservation practices and improve resource management on their lands. This program offers financial incentives based on conservation performance, encouraging sustainable agriculture across 70 million acres in the U.S. All producers, regardless of operation size, can apply, ensuring inclusivity. CSP contracts last five years, with the option to renew, promoting long-term stewardship of land while benefiting local ecosystems and communities.

Developed in partnership by LEF New England and the Points North Institute, the LEF/CIFF Fellowship is an opportunity for 5 New England-based filmmaker teams to attend the Camden International Film Festival in mid-coast Maine and connect with other filmmakers and industry leaders through a series of mentor-led project development workshops, networking events, and curated 1:1 meetings.

PNI builds a unique, interdisciplinary community of filmmakers, artists, journalists, industry leaders and local audiences, forming a creative hub where stories and talent are discovered, collaborations are born, and the future of nonfiction media is shaped. PNI’s programs include the annual Camden International Film Festival and Points North Forum, as well as a growing suite of artist development initiatives: retreats, residencies, workshops and fellowships that nurture the careers of diverse nonfiction storytellers and help them develop a stronger artistic voice.

LEF/CIFF Fellowship

The LEF/CIFF Fellowship program supports career sustainability for regional filmmakers by providing a unique point of access to potential industry supporters, peer mentorship opportunities with fellow filmmakers, and connections to the broader documentary community

The LEF/CIFF Fellowship provides:

• a $1000 stipend per project to support travel to Camden, Maine
• (2) Points North passes to the Camden International Film Festival, providing full access to all screenings, forums, events, and our exclusive Lounge
• (6) nights of accommodations (one double-occupancy room) during the festival
• Mentor-led workshops to discuss and practice presenting your documentary work-in-progress within a supportive cohort-based environment.
• Networking events and curated 1:1 meetings with funders, distributors, producers, and other potential supporters for your project. 

CIFF has become an important stop on the documentary festival circuit for both filmmakers and industry delegates, who attend to build new relationships with filmmakers participating in Points North Institute’s Artist Programs. In recent years, LEF/CIFF Fellows have had opportunities to build relationships with dozens of major funders (Sundance, Ford, ITVS, Doc Society, Catapult, XTR); sales agents (Submarine, CAA, Endeavor); streaming platforms (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+); broadcasters (POV, CNN, NBC, ESPN); theatrical distributors (NEON, A24); and more.

The Carling Memorial Foundation Fund Grants aim to support projects that enhance the health and well-being of children in Bibb County, Georgia. Funded by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, these grants are open to organizations that meet specific eligibility criteria, including the requirement of a final report for previous funding. Each organization can submit one application per year, ensuring focused and impactful contributions to local initiatives.

The Met's Leonard A. Lauder Fellowship in Modern Art offers predoctoral fellowships for art history students focusing on modern art. Founded in 2013, the fellowship provides scholars an opportunity to conduct independent research while engaging with a vibrant community. Each fellow receives a stipend of $50,000, a $6,000 travel fund, and health insurance for a two-year period. This program fosters diverse perspectives in the study of modernism, supporting innovative research across various disciplines.

Greater Minnesota Public Infrastructure

The Greater Minnesota Business Development Infrastructure Grant Program helps stimulate new economic development, create new jobs and retains existing jobs through investments in public infrastructure.

It provides grants to cities of up to 50% of the capital costs of the public infrastructure necessary to expand or retain jobs in the area, increase the tax base, or expand or create new economic development.

Award Amounts

Applicants wills be awarded 50% of eligible, capital costs for eligible projects, pending availability of funds. Applicants may receive no more than $2,000,000 in two years for one or more projects. If after five years the project has not proceeded in a timely manner and is unlikely to be completed, the grant will be cancelled and grant money awarded to the city must be returned.

The MO Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) is a key initiative by NRCS aimed at assisting farmers and forest landowners in integrating conservation practices into their operations. EQIP offers both financial and technical support to address vital natural resource issues including water quality, soil health, and erosion control. Applications are accepted year-round, and special provisions exist for historically underserved producers, ensuring equitable access to vital resources for sustainable agricultural practices.

The Leonard A. Lauder Fellowship in Modern Art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers postdoctoral scholars a unique opportunity to research modern art from diverse perspectives. Established in 2013, this fellowship provides a stipend of $60,000, research funds, and health insurance. It aims to foster a community of scholars engaged in innovative research that explores the history and impact of modernism across various disciplines, while contributing to the museum's rich collections and programs.

The Foundation for Choral Music in Manitoba offers an Emergency Grant to assist choirs in unforeseen circumstances that jeopardize their projects. This initiative encourages choral activities across the province, promoting professional development and enhancing choral music education. Eligible applicants include individuals and organizations, with support from registered charities as needed. The grant aims to foster creativity and strengthen the choral community in Manitoba, ensuring these groups can continue to thrive despite unexpected challenges.

The Met's Leonard A. Lauder Fellowship in Modern Art offers a unique opportunity for mid-career scholars to engage in focused research on modern art. Established in 2013, this fellowship supports research spanning various disciplines, including art history, philosophy, and anthropology. The fellowship provides a stipend of $70,000, a research allowance, and health insurance. In addition to their research, fellows will mentor early-career scholars and lead seminars, fostering a collaborative academic community.

Dr. Sonny Rush Memorial Scholarship

Dr. Sonny Rush was a pioneering orthopedic surgeon and a kind friend to all his patients. He encouraged all students interested in healthcare to pursue their passion in the medical field. This scholarship was established by his family in his memory and is designed to help jumpstart a career in the healthcare field. 

Amount

• 1500

APA Foundation

The mission of the APA Foundation is to advance the art and science of planning through philanthropic activities that provide access to educational opportunities, enrich the public dialogue about planning, and advance social equity in the profession and our communities.

APA Scholarships

The APA Foundation scholarships aim to make the planning profession more accessible to individuals with limited financial means and to attract the best, brightest, and most talented individuals to the field of planning.

These scholarships are intended for students who demonstrate academic merit, a commitment to the field of planning, and financial need. The expanded eligibility includes students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate planning‑related programs at accredited U.S. institutions, reflecting the Foundation’s commitment to broadening access to the profession and strengthening its impact on communities nationwide.

APA Foundation Environmental Scholarship

This scholarship supports students pursuing planning degrees with a focus on environmental or conservation planning. It reflects a commitment to advancing wildlife and environmental conservation through the planning profession and to supporting future planners dedicated to protecting natural resources and sustainable environments. Awards are given to students currently enrolled in degree programs in planning.

The AK Specialty Crop Block Grant program aims to enhance the production, knowledge, and sustainability of Alaska Grown specialty crops while supporting local farmers and communities. It is intended for professional producers, universities, and non-profits collaborating with schools or businesses. While it promotes various specialty crops defined by the USDA, certain agricultural products like livestock and dairy are excluded due to restrictions. More information on eligible crops can be found at the USDA website.

The Minnesota Department of Education offers the Grow Your Own Competitive Grant Opportunity to enhance and diversify the teacher workforce in Minnesota. This grant, with a total of $30,000,000 available, supports programs specifically for people of color and American Indian individuals seeking to obtain their first professional teaching license. Eligible applicants can receive up to $750,000 to create programs that provide tuition scholarships or stipends for teacher preparation.

Boston Family Scholarship

The Boston Family Scholarship aims to provide college scholarships for undergraduate students through a competitive scholarship application process.

The Boston Family Scholarship aims to provide college scholarships for undergraduate students through a competitive scholarship application process, so that they may attend a 4-year college in Nevada to complete a degree that will qualify them to teach elementary, middle, or high school.

The Boston Families have been a working part of the Educational Community for three generations and have personally seen the impact teachers have on students’ lives. They welcome the opportunity to give to others who are committed to the field of teaching. One of the greatest gifts a teacher can give is to encourage and assist students in identifying their strengths and skills. This leaves a student with confidence in themselves which will make a difference in their lives now and in the future.

The scholarships given provide immediate assistance to recipients who are committed to the teaching field and all the challenges that lie ahead. These special individuals will inspire and make an impact on students for generations. The Boston’s feel fortunate to be able to assist others in pursuing a Teaching Career.

Applicants may be high school seniors, college sophomores, or college juniors; reapplication is required for continuing years of support. Current college students applying for the scholarship must be attending a Nevada 4-year college. Scholarship awards may be single- or multi-year. Scholarship recipients who receive a multi-year award are required to provide transcripts that verify they are taking and completing a full-time course load while maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25.

The Wish You Well Foundation Grant supports U.S. non-profit organizations focused on adult literacy. Grants typically range from $200 to $10,000 and require proof of 501(c)(3) status. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster adult and family literacy. Organizations are encouraged to apply for funding that aligns with their specific needs. The Foundation communicates via email regarding proposal receipt and funding decisions, ensuring timely updates to applicants.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Edward Arciniega Scholarship

For graduating seniors from Churchill County High School, Charter School, or from a Churchill County Home-school program, intending to study at a 2-4 year college, having studied a foreign language for at least 4 years. This is a single year award for students who have at least four years of study in a language other than English in grades 6-12, and who have demonstrated an aptitude for language and academic accomplishment. This is a one-time award of up to $1,000.

MassDOT seeks to expand mobility for older adults and people with disabilities across the Commonwealth through filling gaps in the transportation network, complementing – not duplicating – existing services, and supporting coordinated models of transportation. Through this cycle, MassDOT will be awarding accessible vehicles. 

Volunteer Challenge Grants

Each year, CVS Health colleagues volunteer thousands of hours at nonprofit organizations in their communities. To help our colleagues lend even more support to the causes they care about, the CVS Health Foundation offers grants for volunteer service. Funded through the Foundation, our Volunteer Challenge Grant program supports nonprofit organizations where our colleagues donate their time, with grants ranging from $150 to $3,000. The more hours our colleagues give — starting with just 10 logged hours — the more support the nonprofit of their choice can receive from the Foundation.

Volunteer Challenge Grants are awarded on behalf of individuals who volunteer 10, 25 or 100 or more hours of service, to teams that volunteer more than 50 hours of service, and to both individuals and teams who fundraise for a charitable run, walk or ride event.

HOME-American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP)

HOME-ARP provides funding to assist individuals or households who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or other vulnerable populations by providing rental housing, supportive services and non-congregate shelter, to reduce homelessness and increase housing stability.

Funding

• The minimum funding request for Non-Congregate Shelter projects is $50,000.
• Up to 5% may be requested for administrative costs.

Uses

HOME-ARP funds may be used to acquire, rehabilitate, or construct NCS units to serve individuals and families Qualifying Populations.

Restricted Use Period: HOME-ARP NCS projects must comply with HOME-ARP requirements during the restricted use period established in the HOME-ARP Notice.

• New Construction: 15 years
• Rehabilitation: 10 years
• Acquisition Only: 10 years

About Community Foundation of South Alabama

Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama, improving the lives of many residents in our corner of the world.

We amplify the gifts from generous donors through wise investment, support others in efforts to enhance our community, and lead and collaborate on initiatives which have a broad impact.

Scholarships

The more than 40 scholarship funds at the Foundation were created by generous donors who wanted to help the students in our community achieve a brighter future. We are committed to assisting the most promising students with scholarships for professional certificate programs, two and four-year undergraduate degrees and graduate school. The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, books, and fees.

Sue & Sidney Magnes Scholarship Fund

Scholarship(s) are for freshman entering USA as a full-time student majoring in business. This student should be a Mobile County graduate or resident, have at least a 3.0 GPA and a minimum ACT score of 20, and demonstrate financial need.

The NCP Open Road Fund is a transformative initiative aimed at empowering Black individuals in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota by providing $50 million in grants. This fund focuses on fostering financial well-being, economic power, education, housing, and health. By supporting projects that enhance wealth creation and community healing, the fund aims to create sustainable pathways for Black families and individuals to thrive and build intergenerational wealth.

About Community Foundation of South Alabama

Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama, improving the lives of many residents in our corner of the world.

We amplify the gifts from generous donors through wise investment, support others in efforts to enhance our community, and lead and collaborate on initiatives which have a broad impact.

Scholarships

The more than 40 scholarship funds at the Foundation were created by generous donors who wanted to help the students in our community achieve a brighter future. We are committed to assisting the most promising students with scholarships for professional certificate programs, two and four-year undergraduate degrees and graduate school. The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, books, and fees.

Steve and Carolyn Perry Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is for an individual pursuing technical training or certification in advanced manufacturing & will support both career training and career advancement training. The applicant must demonstrate that he or she meets the skill requirements of the training or certification program. Financial need is not required but may be taken into consideration. 

The Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities (Section 5310) program aims to improve transportation options for seniors and individuals with disabilities by removing barriers to access. It provides federal funds for necessary services, including vehicle purchases for paratransit. Eligible applicants include private nonprofits and local authorities approved to coordinate such services. This initiative enhances mobility for essential activities like employment, medical appointments, and grocery shopping, ultimately supporting community integration and independence.

The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) in Ohio offers reimbursement grants covering up to 80% of project costs for eligible entities, including cities, counties, and non-profits. Funded projects can include new trail construction, maintenance, and facilities that promote accessibility and safety. This federally funded initiative aims to enhance outdoor recreational opportunities while fostering community engagement in trail development and maintenance.

Community Foundation of East Mississippi

The Community Foundation of East Mississippi exists to make philanthropy simple, effective, and enduring. We serve as a trusted partner for donors seeking to leave a lasting legacy, nonprofits seeking sustainable funding, and communities striving to improve the quality of life. By connecting charitable resources with local needs, we work to create a vibrant, thriving East Mississippi today and for generations to come.

CFEM accepts, manages, and invests a wide range of charitable funds, including endowments and pass-through gifts. Earnings from these funds are used to make grants that strengthen nonprofit organizations, support community programs, and address emerging needs in Lauderdale, Kemper, Clarke, Newton, and Neshoba counties.

About the Scholarship

This scholarship is provided by Mike Couch and Jennifer Welch to offer an educational scholarship to a student entering a Technical or Trade School.

The Visionary Prize for Women’s Economic Empowerment, established in 2022 by Visionary Women and the Hostetler/Wrigley Foundation, honors a visionary woman leader of a nonprofit focused on advancing women's economic empowerment in the U.S. This prestigious award provides $100,000 in unrestricted funds to support the recipient's agency and its initiatives. Eligible candidates must have a minimum of four years of operation and an annual budget exceeding $500,000, actively working towards women's economic advancement.

The ASPCA Research Grants for Shelter Research invite proposals in six key areas including Access to Veterinary Care, Applied Behavior Research, and Shelter Research. These grants aim to fund high-quality research that can significantly benefit animal welfare. Eligible investigators from U.S. entities and certain Canadian organizations are encouraged to apply. The program emphasizes collaboration between shelters and researchers, fostering innovative solutions to improve the well-being of animals in shelter settings.