Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs

The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs works with Indiana communities to build relevant and economically thriving places where people want to live, work and grow.

Mission: The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs works with local, state and national partners to provide resources and technical assistance to aid communities in shaping and achieving their vision for community and economic development.

CDBG Planning Grant - Economic Recovery Plan

The Planning Grant Program leverages Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to encourage communities to plan for long-term, holistic improvement. The Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) seeks applications from local units of government for programs funded through the State CDBG program. Eligible local units of government are counties, cities, or incorporated towns not located within an entitlement community. Unincorporated areas must apply through the county in which they are located. Eligible planning activities consist of all costs associated with data gathering, study, analysis, and preparation of plans and the identification of actions to implement such plans.

Economic Recovery Plan identifies strategies to recover and bolster the local economy in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

CHA/CHIP Development Support Grant

About

The Community Health Assessments / Community Health Improvement Plans (CHA / CHIP) Development Support Grant Program is designed to provide financial and technical support for the completion of CHA and CHIP.

This program responds to the ongoing need for strengthened local public health infrastructure and planning capacity, especially among counties with limited resources. It also aligns with the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) expectations for Medi-Cal managed care plans to engage in meaningful collaboration with Local Health Jurisdictions.

Purpose

The program supports counties in assessing public health needs and developing responsive plans to address them by way of the CHA/CHIP process. This effort encourages joint planning between managed care and public health departments to reduce siloed systems, enhance population health outcomes, and align with the DHCS Quality Strategy and Bold Goals.

The TeachTX Pilot Grant, administered by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance the educator pipeline through innovative Grow Your Own (GYO) initiatives. By implementing high-quality, campus-based recruitment and leadership development strategies, the program seeks to engage students in education careers. Through targeted support and stakeholder collaboration, the grant fosters early leadership experiences and increases participation in teaching-related programs, ultimately contributing to a robust future workforce in education.

The MI Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), managed by the Michigan DNR, supports the development of public outdoor recreation facilities. With grants ranging from $30,000 to $500,000, the program aims to enhance trails, community recreation, and accessibility while promoting local investment in recreation resources. This reimbursement program requires a 50% local match, ensuring communities actively participate in funding their projects. The initiative aligns with Michigan's State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP).

The California Library Literacy Services grant provides essential funding for public libraries in California to develop and implement adult literacy programs. By offering free tutoring, this initiative aims to enhance literacy among adults, empowering them to achieve personal and professional goals. Libraries selected for funding will participate in the 2026-2027 project cycle, ensuring continued support for ongoing literacy efforts that enrich the community and preserve the state's unique history.

The Cloud County Economic Development Fund, managed by the Greater Salina Community Foundation, aims to enhance community well-being through grants for projects that foster economic and community development in Cloud County. Eligible recipients include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. The fund supports innovative initiatives and capacity-building activities, while disallowing political projects and funding for past debts. Applications are accepted monthly, promoting ongoing community engagement and development.

The NEA Arts and Artifacts International Indemnity Program, administered by the National Endowment for the Arts, provides financial protection for museums exhibiting significant art and artifacts. Launched in 1975, it minimizes insurance costs for international exhibitions. The program allows U.S. entities to receive indemnity for works of art while on display in the U.S. Applications are assessed by expert panels, ensuring a thorough review process before approvals or conditional notices are issued.

The JGE Outstanding Paper Award, presented by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers, recognizes exceptional contributions to geoscience education. Nominations are open to JGE readers, authors, and Editorial Board members, and must include a discussion of how the nominated paper enhances student learning, advances the discipline, or demonstrates significant societal impact. This prestigious award has been celebrating excellence in education since 1938.

The Nike Community Impact Fund in Belgium supports local sports clubs and associations that work with vulnerable youth in Antwerp, Limburg, and Flemish Brabant. This employee-led initiative encourages community engagement and aims to foster inclusive, active environments for children. By providing financial assistance, it empowers organizations to drive positive change and make sports accessible to all, enhancing the social fabric of local neighborhoods.

The Neil Miner Award, presented annually by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers, honors outstanding contributions to stimulating interest in Earth sciences. Established in 1953, this prestigious award recognizes educators who embody personal excellence and effective teaching, inspired by Neil Miner's philosophy. Nominations are open to NAGT members, who may submit a letter of nomination, letters of support, and the nominee's curriculum vitae. This award promotes excellence in geoscience education and celebrates dedicated educators.

The Mary Duke Biddle Foundation's Arts Grant Program provides multiyear funding to arts nonprofits and PreK-12 education organizations in North Carolina's Triangle region. With grants ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 annually, the program focuses on supporting developing and established organizations, emphasizing artistic excellence and community engagement. Eligibility includes a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. This initiative aims to strengthen the cultural sector, foster growth, and enhance the overall well-being of communities through arts programming.

The DuPage Foundation's Capacity Building Grant aims to enhance the effectiveness of local not-for-profit organizations. With a total funding of $100,000, this grant supports projects focused on donor engagement, fund development, technology upgrades, and implementation. Eligible applicants include public charities exempt under section 501(c)(3) that primarily serve DuPage County residents and have received a grant in the past three years. This initiative fosters long-term organizational performance and sustainability.

The MCF Community Investment Program (CIP) supports innovative projects that enhance the quality of life in Rosebud, Custer, and Fallon County, Montana. Established by Grid United, this program aims to partner with local communities, encouraging projects that address community needs and leverage additional support. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, while ineligible projects include one-time events and general operating expenses. Grants must benefit the specified counties.

OnPoint Community Credit Union offers community grants aimed at supporting organizations aligned with their focus areas of Economic Opportunity and Community Vitality. Established in 1932, OnPoint is Oregon's largest credit union and is committed to community engagement through grants for programmatic and general operating support. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities located within the OnPoint region of Oregon and SW Washington. One grant request per organization is allowed annually.

The Nike Community Impact Fund in the Netherlands aims to empower local organizations in Amsterdam, Amersfoort, Hilversum, and Utrecht by providing grants to initiatives that promote physical activity among underserved communities. The fund focuses on enhancing social inclusion and health benefits through sports, particularly for marginalized groups, including girls and children with disabilities. By fostering active and inclusive environments, Nike seeks to create lasting change and improve opportunities for play and sport for all kids.

The Wood Family Foundation Grant offers support primarily to organizations in Odessa, Texas, and surrounding Permian Basin areas. Eligible applicants must be IRS-designated 501(c)(3) nonprofits or government municipalities. The foundation prioritizes educational and healthcare initiatives, requiring organizations to secure partial funding before applying. It does not fund individuals or duplicate requests within a fiscal year. Since its inception, the foundation has reinvested over $18 million into community development, focusing on sustainable impact.

The Ichiro & Masako Hirata Scholarship, established in 2005 by Masako Hirata, supports Hawaii residents majoring in Education. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be full-time students in their junior, senior, or graduate years. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility requirements. This scholarship aims to foster academic achievement and good moral character among its beneficiaries.

The Collaborative Research Program (CRP) - Faculty, managed by the Arkansas Space Grant Consortium, offers seed funding for aerospace-related research. This initiative encourages faculty from underrepresented groups and aims to diversify Arkansas’s aerospace industry. It promotes collaboration among at least two affiliate campuses, supports workforce development, and seeks projects that can attract larger funding and enhance technological competitiveness in various academic disciplines, including engineering and sciences.

Criminal Justice Grant Program, FY2027

Purpose:

The purpose of this announcement is to solicit applications for projects that promote public safety, reduce crime, and improve the criminal justice system.

Available Funding:

Federal Funds are authorized under 34 U.S.C. §10152 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG). JAG funds are made available through a Congressional appropriation to the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance. All awards are subject to the availability of appropriated federal funds and any modifications or additional requirements that may be imposed by law.

The Harrington Faculty Fellows Program at UT Austin invites exceptional early- and mid-career scholars to apply for the 2026-27 academic year. This program focuses on energy studies, encompassing a range of topics from discovery to technology innovation. Selected fellows will receive substantial salary support, a housing allowance, and discretionary funds for research. The initiative fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, offering fellows the chance to engage with renowned mentors and contribute to impactful energy research.

The Erie County Cultural Funding Program offers annual grants of up to $50,000 for 501(c)(3) arts and cultural organizations in Erie County. These funds support general operating expenses such as salaries, program costs, and utilities. Eligible organizations must have a primary cultural mission and demonstrate their community impact. Importantly, funds cannot be used for capital projects or for activities outside Erie County, ensuring that support remains local.

Gulf Coast Leadership Institute

For aspiring, emerging, and experienced leaders to grow to become action-oriented individuals in their communities.

About Gulf Coast Leadership Institute

At Gulf Coast, we believe that leadership is the foundation of community. Our Gulf Coast Leadership Institute taps, trains, and connects emerging and experienced community leaders—over 425 so far—from across the Gulf Coast region. The result is a growing network of skilled, action-oriented leaders who are committed to using their new skills to help transform their communities through service.

Our Mission:

To identify and develop aspiring, emerging, and experienced leaders who reflect the diversity of our region. The program spans two months where participants take part in in-person, experiential small and large group activities that prepare them to become knowledgeable, skilled, and action-oriented leaders in their communities.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) administers federal and state grant awards to its subgrantees to carry out a program. Such entities include primarily school systems (referred to as local educational agencies [LEAs] in statutes), including independent school districts and charter schools; education service centers (ESCs); and, to a lesser degree, institutions of higher education (IHEs), nonprofit organizations (NPOs), and other statutorily allowable organizations.

ESC Perkins Statewide Initiative Grant

Program Description

The purpose of this grant is to support the implementation of district wide classroom reviews to support district strategic planning and performance systems alignment in a variety of Agency initiatives, including the Effective District Frameworks Diagnostics, Effective Schools Frameworks Diagnostics, and HB-1605 Local Classroom Reviews.

The District Wide Classroom Reviews Grant will provide school systems with a review to determine the degree to which the materials submitted (1) corresponds with the instructional materials adopted by the school district or district campus; and (2) meets the level of rigor of the essential knowledge and skills adopted under Section 28.002 for the grade level in which it is being used. The purpose of this project will be to provide logistics and operations support for all district wide classroom reviews and district wide diagnostics, including training and events, budget tracking and invoicing for completed district wide classroom reviews and working with designated vendors for additional supports and resources, including diagnostic platforms, as identified by TEA.

The Academic Career Excellence (ACE) Award (K32) supports early-stage postdoctoral scholars through rigorous research and career development over three years. Applicants must submit their proposals up to a year before or two years after starting their postdoctoral positions. This award emphasizes innovative research ideas and strategic planning for training and mentorship, aiming to cultivate independent investigators in research fields aligned with the missions of NIH Institutes and Centers.

The TIA Conference Management, sponsored by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance teacher designation systems and strategic compensation practices across Texas school systems. Open to 1,000 leaders and ESC TIA Leads, the conference will provide essential resources and best practices to improve teacher retention and increase TIA designations. This initiative supports educational equity and excellence by fostering collaboration among local educational agencies.

The Fall Education Grant Cycle, offered by the Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation, aims to support new teachers in rural areas of southeastern Illinois. With a focus on enhancing the quality of education, this initiative addresses the looming teacher shortage, especially in STEM and special needs. Grants of $200 are available for 1st and 2nd-year K-12 teachers, promoting the development of educators who are community-oriented and equipped to tackle the unique challenges of rural education.

The Nexus Grant, administered by the City of Austin's Cultural Arts Division, offers $5,000 to support local artists, cultural groups, and small organizations. This program aims to promote equity and foster creativity within the community by funding public projects and activities. Eligible applicants include 501(c) nonprofit arts organizations, individual artists over 18, and creative businesses with a budget of $150,000 or less. Nexus Grant encourages new applicants to engage in cultural initiatives that enrich Austin's diverse landscape.