Best Orleans County Grants for Nonprofits in New York

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations hosting health-focused community or fundraising events in Orleans County, New York can seek up to US $5,000 to support activities like galas, athletic fundraisers, health fairs, educational events, and staff trainings. Greater Rochester Health Foundation supports efforts that promote health equity and improve physical, mental, and social well-being across its nine-county region.

With a mission to support education and family economic stability, organizations in Orleans County, New York can seek more than US $50,000 for projects serving urban low-income children and youth. The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation funds project support or scaling efforts in education, health, and family economic stability in the U.S., India, and South Africa.

Orleans County, New York nonprofits can access funding through the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation for projects in youth sports and recreation, parks and public spaces, caregiver support, education, and entrepreneurship. Eligible 501(c)(3) or fiscally sponsored organizations must serve Southeast Michigan or Western New York, including Orleans County, and propose creative, high-impact community initiatives.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

Food-system-focused 501(c)(3) nonprofits headquartered in Orleans County, New York can apply for up to US $2,500 to build staff and organizational capacity through professional development, consulting, and specialized services. Focused on nonprofit growth and food access, Western New York Foundation’s Small Grant Program supports training, strategic planning, legal or financial services, and certifications or accreditations.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

Focused on arts and culture, Rochester Area Community Foundation invites Orleans County, New York 501(c)(3) and 509(a)(1) organizations to apply for US $5,000 - US $10,000 to strengthen regional vitality. Funding can support access to arts in underserved communities, organizational sustainability or growth, and programs celebrating local racial and cultural diversity.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and government agencies in Orleans County, New York can seek US $10,000 - US $25,000 to support caregivers of underserved individuals. Focused on caregiver support and respite care, the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo backs projects that expand access to resources like transportation assistance, volunteer support, and training opportunities.

501(c)(3) nonprofits in Orleans County, New York can apply for Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo’s Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds: Design and Access grants; awards US $10,000 - US $50,000 for planning, developing, or constructing projects. Funding supports walkability, bikeability, and improvements to waterways, greenways, and recreation corridors, with preference for green and universally accessible design.

Community organizations running youth sports programs in Orleans County, New York can receive US $10,000 - US $25,000 to help children be active through sport. Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo supports 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Western New York counties to offer free play, sport sampling, in-town leagues, coach training, and prevention-focused activities.

Orleans County, New York 501(c)(3) nonprofits and fiscally sponsored groups can access funding to explore strategic partnerships, shared services, mergers, or dissolution planning. Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo offers US $2,500 - US $25,000 grants to cover nonrecurring costs that strengthen organizational resilience and reimagine service delivery across Western New York, including Orleans County.

Rochester Area Community Foundation

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Clark Family Mental Health and Disability Scholarship

Barbara and Tom Clark have been blessed with good health, four children, grandchildren, and a comfortable lifestyle. They come from modest backgrounds with parents who provided them with educational opportunities and strong work ethics, which has enabled them to be in a position to share their good fortune with others. Their youngest child, born with Down Syndrome, has been the beneficiary of many services provided by agencies and health systems serving the developmentally disabled. With their help, she has grown into a fine young woman.

Both Barbara and Tom have been closely involved with agencies serving the disadvantaged and have personally witnessed the skills and dedication of those who have chosen this career. This scholarship was established to assist individuals dedicated to serving in the field of developmental disabilities or mental health with their advanced educational pursuits. Through this scholarship, the Clarks desire to help these individuals with the educational requirements to improve their skills in serving those in need.

Purpose of Scholarship

• To provide financial support for individuals working in or planning to work in the fields of developmental disabilities or behavioral health within the eight-county area surrounding Rochester (Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, and Yates counties) who wish to pursue a master’s degree in their field. The intent of this scholarship is to elevate the state of practice and increase the number of individuals serving in the fields of developmental disabilities and behavioral health.

Award Details

• Number of recipients and award amounts vary. The amount awarded will be based on the student’s actual cost of attendance, financial need, and receipt of other available grants and financial resources. Award paid in one lump sum in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.
• Awards may be used for tuition, books, fees, and other graduate level educational expenses.
• The scholarship is a one-time award; however, students may reapply in future years and receive a maximum of four awards during a consecutive six-year period.

Susan A. Cowell Scholarship

For academically talented and community-minded high school graduates continuing their education in college, graduate school, or a trade/technical school.

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $1,000; paid in one lump sum in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations offering PreK–12 arts education in Orleans County, New York can apply for Rochester Area Community Foundation’s Vitality Grants, awarding US $5,000 - US $10,000 for capacity building, operations, and programming. Funding supports arts instruction, materials, access services like transportation or childcare, and professional development for staff and teaching artists.

With a mission to support preservation, education, and wellness, the Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation provides Orleans County, New York 501(c)(3) nonprofits and aligned for-profits with funding to tell powerful stories about their impact. The Storytelling Grant offers more than US $50,000 and may support wildlife conservation and related community-focused initiatives.

Orleans County, New York nonprofits and public agencies building free, public concrete skateparks for youth can access funding through Tony Hawk Foundation’s Built to Play Skatepark Grants, with awards up to US $25,000 plus environmental design support. Eligible projects must serve low- to middle-income communities and be open, no-fee public facilities.

Greater Rochester Health Foundation provides Orleans County, New York nonprofits and community entities with US $25,000 - US $175,000 for health-focused programs and operations. Funding supports stabilization, harm mitigation, and community services that advance health equity for populations facing heightened risk, including rural residents and communities historically impacted by health inequities.

501(c)(3) arts nonprofits in Orleans County, New York can apply for the Oliver G. & Sarah Sloan Bauman Fund for the Arts to support traditional, classical ballet, opera, music, or theater performances. Administered by Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, this matching-preferred grant prioritizes live stage works that preserve original choreography, language, and high-quality classical repertory.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Orleans County, New York working to improve quality of life can seek grants for project, operating, or capital support. Grants from O'Reilly Automotive Foundation help U.S. community nonprofits address economic stability, workforce development, health and social services, and disaster relief in areas where O’Reilly Auto Parts operates.

Focused on LGBTQIA+ services, Rochester Area Community Foundation invites Orleans County, New York 501(c)(3) public charities to apply for LGBT+ Giving Circle Grants. Eligible organizations in its eight-county service area can request US $1,000 - US $5,000 for projects serving, including, or allied with the LGBT+ community and supported by inclusive nondiscrimination policies.

Rochester Area Community Foundation provides Orleans County, New York nonprofits and public charities with US $15,000 - US $20,000 for historic preservation projects. Funding supports preserving historical assets, fostering economic development and equity, advancing community or neighborhood revitalization, promoting a sense of place, and creating new opportunities for community engagement with regional history.

East Hill Foundation provides Orleans County, New York 501(c)(3) nonprofits with up to US $50,000 for projects that enhance quality of life, especially basic human needs like food, clothing, and shelter. Eligible organizations must serve residents within Western New York’s eight counties, including Orleans County, through community-focused programs rather than ongoing operating expenses.

Local governments, public schools, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Orleans County, New York can apply for US $500 - US $1,000 to host Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day events promoting activism, anti-racism, and anti-bullying. Grants from Safe Routes to School National Parternship support November activities that encourage students to walk, bike, or roll to school and inspire community change.

Orleans County, New York arts and culture 501(c)(3) nonprofits with budgets under $500,000 can access funding through the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo for general operating and capacity-building needs, with awards up to US $15,000. Eligible small to mid-sized organizations, including certain libraries and fiscally sponsored groups, must work in one or more of nine Western New York counties.