Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Minnie M. Jones Trust Grant, established in 1953, aims to enhance educational opportunities for underserved children in Texas. This private trust focuses on supporting organizations that provide quality education programming, with a preference for those serving youth in Denison and Grayson County. Grants are awarded for a duration of one year, emphasizing the importance of sustainable educational initiatives.

2026-2027 Center for Effective Schools

Program Description

The purpose of this project is to support the implementation of the Effective Schools Framework (ESF) and Effective District Framework (EDF) by campuses and school systems throughout the state.

RFA: Program Guidelines

2026-2027 Center for Effective Schools

The purpose of this project is to support the implementation of the Effective Schools Framework (ESF) and Effective District Framework (EDF) by campuses and school systems throughout the state. Support will include the development and implementation of training, tools, resources, and platforms to support the implementation of the ESF and EDF. This project will also provide support to lowperforming schools by providing resources and support for continuous improvement efforts to reduce the number of low-performing campuses in the state. This project will include logistics and operations for training, events, and School Improvement and District Strategic leadership touchpoints.

The WV Culture: Community Arts Mini-Grants program, funded by the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture, and History, offers up to $2,000 to support local governments and 501(c)3 organizations. This initiative funds projects that present artists through performances, workshops, and other arts-focused activities, aiming to enhance community engagement and cultural experiences.

The California Department of Education's Geo-Regional Experts for Multilingual Students initiative aims to enhance educational outcomes for multilingual learners. This competitive grant invites county offices of education to become Geo-Regional Experts (GEMS) by designating full-time experts who provide data-driven support to local educational agencies. The program is designed to foster collaboration among educators, schools, and communities, ensuring that all students receive a world-class education in a multicultural environment.

The South Dakota Arts Council (SDAC) offers Project Grants to support nonprofit organizations in presenting arts activities that serve the public. These grants aim to enhance community well-being through the arts, promote cultural engagement, and foster innovation. Eligible applicants include South Dakota nonprofit organizations designated as federally tax-exempt. The SDAC prioritizes projects that employ local artists, reach diverse audiences, and contribute to the state's cultural landscape. Funding is not available for capital improvements or projects already completed.

The Brown Foundation Grant aims to empower organizations that strengthen the Houston community through selective grantmaking. With a history of distributing over $1.7 billion, the foundation focuses on supporting general operating funds, program initiatives, and capital projects. To qualify, organizations must be tax-exempt under 501(c)(3) and primarily serve the Houston area. The foundation values visionary leadership and maintains a low profile, emphasizing the impact of its grantees.

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust Grants focus on enhancing the quality of life for companion animals and native wildlife. This private foundation supports innovative projects that go beyond basic care, ensuring the well-being of homeless and abused animals. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and be located in specific states, including Ohio and parts of Indiana and Michigan. The Trust emphasizes humane treatment and sustainable funding for animal welfare initiatives.

The 2025-2026 Texas Strategic Compensation for ESCs Grant aims to enhance teacher and principal retention by promoting strategic compensation systems. This initiative will support Educational Service Centers in implementing effective compensation strategies aligned with the Teacher Incentive Allotment. The grant focuses on hiring Regional Assistant Superintendents of Talent to work directly with school systems, ensuring a shift from traditional pay structures to performance-based compensation models. The goal is to increase the talent pool and improve educational outcomes.

The Raleigh and Agnes Sorge Charitable Fund, managed by the Lakeshore Community Foundation Inc., aims to support organizations that meet human needs in Manitowoc County. This private fund encourages initiatives that positively impact the community and enhance the quality of life for its residents. By providing financial resources, the fund seeks to empower local organizations dedicated to addressing critical social issues.

The OVAC Professional Basics Grant supports Oklahoma artists by funding essential aspects of their art practice, including quality samples, display, and travel. Grants of up to $500 help artists develop their professional practices and engage in community projects. Eligibility requires applicants to be over 21 and have at least 12 months of residency in Oklahoma. This grant aims to empower visual artists, curators, and art writers to enhance their creative projects and visibility.

The Bee Vradenburg Foundation Grant supports equity and inclusion in the arts within the Pikes Peak region. It aims to advocate for the importance of arts education, support diverse artists and art forms, and foster resilience among local arts organizations. With a straightforward application process, the foundation encourages community engagement and partnerships, making it easier for applicants to contribute to the region's cultural landscape. Grants are reviewed quarterly, and applications are accepted year-round.

Background

As authorized under Title I, Part C of the Every Student Succeeds Act, the Office of Continuous Improvement and Support, Division of School and Program Improvement, is issuing a Request for Application (RFA) from local educational agencies,  educational cooperatives  or public universities/colleges to develop and implement technical assistance and professional learning programs that facilitate the educational and support services needed for identified migrant children and their families. 

Purpose

As stated in Section 1301 of the Every Student Succeeds Act, the purpose of the Migrant Education Program  (MEP) is to:

• Assist States in supporting high-quality and comprehensive educational programs and services during the school year and, as applicable, during summer or intersession periods, that address the unique educational needs of migratory children;
• To ensure that migratory children who move among the States are not penalized in any manner by disparities among the States in curriculum, graduation requirements, and challenging State academic standards;
• To ensure that migratory children receive full and appropriate opportunities to meet the same challenging State academic standards that all children are expected to meet;
• To help migratory children overcome educational disruption, cultural and language barriers, social isolation, various health-related problems, and other factors that inhibit the ability of such children to succeed in school; and
• To help migratory children benefit from State and local systemic reforms.

Funding

The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) anticipates funding up to four migrant regional center programs at up to $325,000 per year per regional center. KDE reserves the right to negotiate annually the amount based on the regional center's sub-contracts with LEAs and any identified unanticipated needs within the region.  The funds generated by the LEA will be included in the negotiation for the regional center.

Upon expiration of the initial term, at KDE's discretion, the contract may be renewed for up to 2 additional 1-year periods if it is in the best interest of the Kentucky Migrant Education Program and its eligible students to do so.

Red Boucher Scholarship Fund

A scholarship fund created in honor of Henry Aristide "Red" Boucher to support post-secondary education for students studying technology. 

The Red Boucher Scholarship honors the late H.A. "Red" Boucher and was established by the Alaska Society for Technology in Education in 2008.

Red Boucher and his family came to Alaska after his service in the Navy. They settled in Fairbanks in 1958 after John F. Kennedy, whom he campaigned for, told him there was great potential in the far north territory. He founded the Fairbanks Goldpanners baseball team in the 1960s, setting up the roots of the Alaska Baseball League. He served on the Fairbanks City Council before becoming mayor in 1966. He was elected lieutenant governor of Alaska under the second administration of Governor William Allen Egan, serving from 1970 to 1974. Afterwards, he served in the Alaska House of Representatives and Anchorage Assembly. He also had an interest in telecommunications, sparked by the first Apple computers, and became known as a telecommunications whiz whose successes included a crusade to boost Internet access in remote Alaska villages.

The PLTW Computer Science grant, supported by Arrow Electronics, is designed to help schools expand their existing PLTW Computer Science programs. Schools can receive up to $10,000 to introduce new courses or enhance current offerings. Eligible institutions are public or charter schools located within 25 miles of Alpharetta, GA. Funds can cover various expenses, including required equipment and training for teachers, making this opportunity pivotal for enhancing STEM education in the region.

The American Bible Society (ABS) Research Grant invites Christian higher education scholars to explore ways to enhance Bible engagement among young adults aged 18-35. With $50,000 in funding, this grant encourages innovative proposals that promote meaningful interactions with Scripture, evaluate engagement strategies, and cater to diverse Christian traditions. Research teams or individual faculty members with expertise in spiritual formation and discipleship are encouraged to apply, aiming for scalable solutions that positively impact spiritual well-being.

Women Create Foundation Grants

Empowering women creators.

About

Women Create, LLC is the publisher of two industry leading magazines, Where Women Create and What women Create. Every issue of WHAT & WHERE includes in-depth features about women from diverse geographies and backgrounds, the mediums they use and the projects and studios that support their passion.

Through our search for women artist/creators, we’ve seen the significant barriers and disparities in accessing funding they face to nurture their visions. The Women Create Foundation was created with the mission to empower women creators through grants that help bring projects to life and foster innovation.

The grant amounts vary depending on the artist’s needs. Financial awards typically range from $500-$2,000.

The McDaniel Scholarship at Adams State University aims to provide full-tuition scholarships to students in junior standing or above, including post-graduate and graduate students. Established by Dr. John E. McDaniel, this scholarship honors past students while supporting the educational aspirations of future scholars. As part of Colorado's premier Hispanic-Serving Institution, this initiative reflects the university’s commitment to equitable access to education and empowering historically underserved populations.

The Cheri Smith Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, provides financial support to Junior and Senior students at UWSP in the School of Business and Economics. With award amounts ranging from $500 to $40,000, this scholarship aims to assist students with a GPA of 3.0 or above and demonstrated financial need. Explore opportunities to apply or contribute to this impactful initiative.

The Pat Santucci Education Fund, managed by the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, supports initiatives that enhance public education and assist educators, especially for the physically and mentally challenged, within six counties in South Mississippi. Non-profit organizations that improve the quality of life for local citizens are encouraged to apply. However, funding is not available for capital projects, operating endowments, political activities, individuals, or religious activities.

The H.S. Lopez Family Foundation Grant focuses on funding innovative projects that enhance the quality of life, primarily in Arizona. With an emphasis on health, education, and welfare, the foundation aims to support not-for-profit organizations that address critical community needs. Grants are awarded to initiatives that demonstrate potential for lasting impact and community benefit, encouraging sustainable support beyond the foundation's involvement.

What We Fund

The Dunham Foundation is committed to providing positive, multi-generational support to all individuals and families in our service area.

We believe that this support lays the groundwork for successful generations to come and builds an infrastructure for a community where all can thrive. The Dunham Foundation invests in the following three areas:

• Education
• Economic Growth
• Community 

Dunham Foundation General Grants (Requests that exceed $50,000)

At the Dunham Foundation, we strive to honor John C. Dunham's vision for building a healthy, thriving community with our grantmaking.

Through these efforts, we support projects and programs in Education, Economic Growth, and Community that create measurable and lasting impact in the Dunham Foundation Service Area.

Organizations outside our service area are eligible if their programs directly impact residents within the Dunham Foundation Service Area.

Funded organizations are expected to submit a financial and program report at the conclusion of the grant. Reporting requirements will be outlined in the approval process and grant agreements. The reporting form will be available through the grant portal.

The Service Club of Manatee County Grant Program is dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged children in Manatee County, Florida. This organization raises funds through donations and their annual 'Boots & Bling' Gala. In 2024, they distributed $165,000 to 35 agencies focused on providing essential services such as food, shelter, and education to local children. Only programs specifically benefiting children aged 0-17 are eligible for funding, excluding administrative costs.

The Education Support Professional of the Year award recognizes outstanding contributions by education support professionals in Minnesota. Annually, Education Minnesota honors an individual who exemplifies dedication and excellence in their role. Nominations for the 2025-26 award are now open, inviting submissions from colleagues and community members. The recipient will receive a $1,200 honorarium, a choice of technology, and an expense-paid trip to a national conference, celebrating their impactful work within the educational community.

The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs is inviting organizations to submit proposals for a logistics and travel support project in Honduras. This initiative aims to enhance public security, justice, and combat narcotics trafficking. The selected grantee will provide essential logistical and technical support to Honduran law enforcement agencies, thereby improving their operational readiness and effectiveness. This project is crucial for strengthening the justice sector and ensuring safety in both Honduras and the United States.

The Arkansas Space Grant Consortium (ASGC) is offering the Student Intensive Training (SIT) Award aimed at undergraduate students interested in aerospace research. This program supports multiple student projects within a single STEM study area, fostering collaboration and innovation. While several undergraduate projects may be funded, graduate students may have restrictions on participation. This initiative enhances educational opportunities and encourages exploration in critical aerospace topics.

The Friends of Loutit Library Fund Scholarship, established by the Friends of Loutit Library in 2005, aims to assist students pursuing an advanced degree in Library Science. This scholarship is open to individuals who either reside or have resided in the Tri-Cities area of Northern Ottawa County. Financial need is not a consideration, ensuring that all eligible students can apply for this essential educational support from the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation.

The OCCF: Lawton Community Grants program, managed by the Lawton Community Foundation, awards grants up to $5,000 to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations in the Lawton area. It supports projects that enhance the community's quality of life, require matching support, and benefit a broad audience. Eligible projects should be new or significantly expanded initiatives. The program aims to empower citizens by providing resources for impactful community improvements.