Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Muskegon Community College Faculty Association Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Muskegon Community College Faculty Association (MCCFA), who established the Muskegon Community College Faculty Association Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. This scholarship is awarded to students continuing their education at Muskegon Community College, or pursuing an education at another college or university.

In collaboration with Cummins Inc., the American Library Association (ALA) invites applications from U.S. public libraries to participate in A Year of STEM, 12 months of curated STEM programming to foster curiosity and STEM-mindedness in early childhood learners across the country. 

Twenty-five libraries will be chosen to participate in A Year of STEM, receiving professional development to prepare them for the project, copies of a newly created A Year of STEM programming guide developed by librarian advisors, a $5,000 programming stipend, four STEM kits (to be delivered quarterly), and support from ALA’s Public Programs Office staff throughout the project implementation period.

The City of Covington's Neighborhood Grant Program offers up to $5,000 to neighborhood groups for projects aimed at enhancing community appearance and social cohesion. This competitively awarded program emphasizes a simple application process for funding beautification initiatives, blight removal, and special events. By fostering local engagement, it aims to create vibrant, connected neighborhoods that reflect the community's identity and pride.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Knowles Future Teacher Scholarship Fund

The Knowles family has a history of being in the education field, and greatly values the teaching profession. The Knowles Future teacher Scholarship was established by the Knowles family and friends to encourage the next generation of teachers to continue their education past high school. Selection is based on acceptance to a college or university with a major in Education and a 3.0 GPA minimum. Evidence of good character, volunteer service, and demonstrated commitment to youth in a school setting area also selection considerations.

The Monett Area Affiliate Grantmaking Program, governed by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, aims to enhance the quality of life in the Monett area through strategic grantmaking. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for 501(c)(3) organizations and other approved entities. The program emphasizes non-discrimination in its funding practices, ensuring fair access for all community members regardless of background or identity.

Year-End FY26 Arizona Automobile Theft Authority Grants

Approximately $30,000 is available for all year-end projects. All grant applications are due by May 29, 2026, and are submitted through the Ecivis grant management system. The AATA Board of Directors will review and approve grant awards at the June 19, 2026, meeting.

The AATA’s Vehicle Theft Reduction Grant Programs provide funding to combat and reduce the number of vehicle crimes in Arizona communities. Grants are awarded annually to the Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force (VTTF) and Local Grants, including Vertical Prosecution, Law Enforcement, Professional Training, and Public Awareness/Prevention programs.

Once approved, contracts are generated for signature by an authorized representative of the grantee and the AATA prior to funding being issued.    

Agencies are required to submit monthly or quarterly financial and performance reports within the Ecivis Grant Management System. 

Non-supplanting requirements:

• Monies expended from the Automobile Theft Prevention Fund shall not be used to supplant other monies that are available for vehicle theft prevention.
• Each grantee shall certify that the Arizona Automobile Theft Authority funds will not be used to replace State or local funds that would have been available in the absence of grant funds. This certification shall be incorporated in each grant application.

Award Amount:

$500.00 (min)-$20,000.00 (max)

The John Deere FIRST Tech Challenge grant supports teams engaging in STEM through robotics. It serves schools and non-profits, prioritizing those in John Deere's Inspire communities and with volunteer mentors. Grants cover registration and equipment costs, fostering innovation and inclusion among underserved students. Teams are encouraged to apply regardless of financial need, furthering John Deere's commitment to empowering youth in engineering and technology through hands-on learning experiences.

The John Deere FIRST LEGO League Challenge aims to enhance equity, diversity, and inclusion in STEM by supporting teams from underserved communities. Eligible teams must have a John Deere mentor and meet specific criteria related to student demographics. Grants will be awarded to teams that demonstrate commitment to community engagement and volunteerism. This initiative aligns with John Deere’s goal to reach one million underserved youth by 2030, fostering innovation and creativity in future generations.

The Hudson Schools Arts and Humanities Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, aims to enrich the educational experience for students and teachers in the Hudson City School District. Since 1987, the foundation has supported community-driven initiatives, encouraging collaboration among teachers, students, and community members. Grants are available for projects that enhance learning without replacing public funding, fostering inclusive opportunities for all, regardless of background or identity.

The Plant America Community Project Grant, offered by the National Garden Clubs, supports initiatives that enhance public spaces and community gardens. Grants of up to $2,000 are available for projects that educate and engage both adults and children in gardening. Since 2017, over 250 grants have been awarded, totaling more than $225,000. Eligible applicants include member clubs, focusing on beautification, restoration, and environmental education.

The grant will enable libraries to support public programming connected to the America 250 commemoration, encourage civic engagement, historical reflection, and community dialogue, highlight history through local and national perspectives on American experiences, and expand access to high-quality educational and cultural programming for communities across Oklahoma.

The Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Grant Program, administered by the Vermont Department of Public Safety, provides crucial FEMA funding for hazard mitigation projects. This initiative aims to bolster community resilience against natural disasters through investments in infrastructure improvements such as floodplain restoration and utility floodproofing. Eligible projects must align with approved Local Hazard Mitigation Plans, promoting long-term risk reduction and enhancing the state's preparedness for emergencies.

The National Board Certified Teachers Scholarship, funded by the Education Minnesota Foundation, aims to support K-12 educators pursuing National Board Certification. Each year, eligible Education Minnesota members can receive scholarships up to $1,000 to cover assessment fees. This initiative particularly encourages first-time applicants while also allowing those maintaining certification to apply. Scholarships are awarded annually, and recipients must provide proof of payment for the certification process to access their funds.

The Lacrosse Opportunities Grant by the Maryland State Department of Education aims to enhance participation in lacrosse among minority students under 18. It supports Local Education Agencies and recognized nonprofits in providing comprehensive training and resources. The program prioritizes jurisdictions where over 80% of students are minorities, funding salaries, equipment, and clinics. This initiative reflects Maryland's commitment to equitable education and development opportunities in sports for underserved communities.

LSTA Literacy Grant FFY 2026 – State Fiscal Year 2027

Grant purpose

The Minnesota Department of Education makes this funding available to libraries as defined per Minnesota Statutes 2025, section 134.001, subdivision 2 for the purpose of helping to achieve Minnesota’s LSTA Five-Year Plan (2023-2027), Goals A, B, and C, to reduce barriers to access, promote equity, showcase libraries’ contributions to community, and empower Minnesota’s library workforce. Successful grant proposals will connect proposed project activities to improving access to services and information in areas of literacy.

While LSTA funds are primarily intended to support new projects that can serve as models or pilots, applications for new phases of a project that is underway may be submitted. Libraries may also apply for funding of an ongoing project if it reaches new audiences, incorporates new methods or significantly expands the reach of the project.

The FY 2027 Continuation of Solicitation invites applications to support various program areas, including Advanced Scientific Computing, Basic Energy Sciences, Fusion Energy Sciences, and more. This annual open solicitation from the Department of Energy (DOE) allows research proposals throughout the fiscal year. Applications must align with SC's mission and can be submitted until September 30, 2027, or until a new solicitation is issued. Detailed submission processes are outlined in 10 C.F.R. part 605.

NASA's ROSES25: A.13 Accelerating Earth Solutions aims to enhance the integration of Earth-observing satellite data in decision-making across three key areas: identifying critical issues, developing actionable solutions, and scaling the impact of existing initiatives. Proposals can span one to three years, depending on the focus area, and are designed to foster innovative approaches to environmental challenges.

The Rec for All Support, Engagement, and Events (See) Grant offers a $10,000 funding opportunity aimed at promoting inclusive recreational activities for youth. This grant, provided by the DC Department of Parks and Recreation, supports events, tournaments, and travel for athletic competitions, ensuring accessibility for all participants, regardless of their background or ability. The initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing community wellness and fostering engagement through diverse recreational opportunities.

The Christine Brice Stevenson Community Charitable Trust Grant supports medical, educational, and religious organizations in South Carolina, especially in Abbeville County, Anderson County, and Due West. Grants, averaging $1,000, aim to enrich the lives of local residents. Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) organizations, excluding Erskine College and Erskine Seminary. The trust prioritizes initiatives that align with its mission, providing approximately four grants annually with a total giving of around $5,000.

The National Fund for Sacred Places Grant Program supports historic houses of worship in the U.S. through matching grants ranging from $50,000 to $250,000. This initiative, in collaboration with the National Trust for Historic Preservation, aims to enhance community engagement and preserve culturally significant buildings. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate their historical relevance and community service, particularly those representing underrepresented groups. The program prioritizes urgent repair needs and projects that foster inclusivity and accessibility.

The Creative Equations Fund (CEF) is an initiative by the Brooklyn Arts Council aimed at supporting artists and small organizations dedicated to social justice. Grants of $10,000 each will be awarded to Brooklyn-based applicants, including individuals and nonprofits, to enhance their capacity for impactful cultural interventions. This fund emphasizes community engagement, cultural equity, and sustainability, fostering artistic innovation that addresses social issues and strengthens local communities.

The A.I.R. Fellowship Program, established in 1993, empowers emerging women and non-binary artists in New York City by providing them with their first solo exhibition, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. Each year, six artists benefit from a 12-month fellowship that includes workshops, curatorial support, and a stipend of $3,000, fostering an inclusive community that encourages creative exploration and dialogue among diverse artists.

The Synod of the Mid-Atlantic's Visionary Fund supports innovative and inclusive programs addressing education, evangelism, and social justice. These grants, funded by generous donations from Presbyterians, aim to foster community growth and development. Contributions are vital for continuing this mission, with options available for individual, group, or congregational donations, as well as estate bequests and gifts of securities or real estate. Together, we can make a meaningful impact.

The L. Ray Vahue Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports City of Amarillo employees and their families. This scholarship allows recipients to apply annually, ensuring continued educational support. The foundation aims to enhance the quality of life for residents of the Texas Panhandle by addressing educational needs. Eligible applicants must complete the foundation's General Scholarship Application and maintain enrollment requirements, fostering academic success within the community.

The Arts Impact Endowment (AIE) by the San Francisco Arts Commission aims to support local artists and organizations over the next five years, focusing on preventing displacement through grants and resources. The initiative emphasizes racial equity and social justice, aligning with the 2024-2029 Cultural Services Allocation Plan. By funding artists' work, their environments, and community connections, AIE seeks to enhance the vibrancy of San Francisco's cultural landscape, fostering creativity and positive social change.

The Samuel F. Atkins and Barbara H. Atkins Memorial Fund Grant, managed by the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation, supports projects that assist low-income individuals and address animal welfare. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, governmental entities, and tribal governments located in specific counties in Wisconsin and Minnesota. The fund prioritizes projects demonstrating financial need, including emergency services and training programs for the physically disabled. This grant exemplifies the foundation's commitment to enhancing community welfare.

The Cleveland Foundation supports the needs, priorities and opportunities identified by communities and residents in Cuyahoga, Lake and Geauga counties, with grantmaking for long-term impact and grantmaking for immediate impact. 

Lake-Geauga Fund

The Lake Geauga Fund, established in 1988 at the Cleveland Foundation, aims to promote community philanthropy and strategic grantmaking to support transformative projects in Lake and Geauga counties.

Impact Areas 

Capital: Focus on new projects that provide a direct benefit to the community. This includes both pre-development and capital needs. 

Capital projects should accomplish one of the following: 

• Strategic and Long-Term Focus: Has a generational impact, not a focus on day-to-day operations.  
• Community Centered: Aim to enhance quality of life or address critical community needs.   
• Sustainability: Incorporate LEED environmental standards. 
• Advances the advantage and competitiveness of the region. 
• The organization demonstrates financial stability and sound operations 

Economic Development: Support for projects and programs that strive to improve economic and workforce conditions in Lake and Geauga Counties for its residents. 

Economic Development projects should accomplish one of the following: 

• Increase the number of individuals qualified for high-demand, high-growth jobs in through training and/or upskilling. 
• Addresses barriers to individuals engaging in work or workforce development.  
• Support growth of small- and mid-sized businesses.  
• Expand resources for entrepreneurs starting new businesses. 

Critical Knowledge and Infrastructure: Support infrastructure and systems needed in order to achieve catalytic community impact. 

Critical Knowledge and Infrastructure projects should accomplish at least one of the following:  

• Improve implementation ability for an organization executing catalytic or transformative projects.  
• Pilot innovative operating structures to promote efficiency, quality, and community-wide impact.  
• New models or unique partnerships that will improve impact.