Best Otsego County Grants for Nonprofits in New York

The Citizens Charitable Foundation offers grants focused on Workforce Development and Financial Empowerment. Organizations applying must be IRS-qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in specific states. The foundation seeks to partner with high-impact nonprofits to create measurable community impact through innovative programs. Funding is directed towards job training, career education, and coaching initiatives, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and volunteerism.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - New York

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program, managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, invites proposals for grants ranging from $75,000 to $500,000. These funds aim to support on-the-ground conservation projects that enhance vital fish and wildlife habitats within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Up to $8.5 million in funding is available, contingent on resources.

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program, led by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), invites proposals for Planning and Technical Assistance Grants up to $75,000. This initiative focuses on enhancing conservation and stewardship efforts in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, supporting local partners in effective project implementation. With an estimated $8.5 million available, applicants are encouraged to engage with NFWF staff for proposal guidance and feedback to strengthen their submissions.

The Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative aims to revitalize communities impacted by coal industry transitions. This initiative provides funding for projects that diversify local economies, enhance job training, and create new employment opportunities. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, the POWER Initiative supports strategic investments that align with regional economic development plans, ensuring a more resilient future for coal-affected areas.

The CFSCNY Small Grants Program supports nonprofits in Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, and Tioga counties. Prioritized projects address critical areas such as equity, housing, and mental health. Grants range from $250 to $5,000 and may cover operational costs, capacity building, or small capital purchases. Applications are accepted quarterly, with the next cycle due on the fourth Monday of January, March, May, and September. This program aims to empower organizations aligned with community needs.

The CFSCNY Racial Justice and Equity Fund, established in 2020, addresses systemic inequities faced by marginalized communities. With a focus on leadership, health, economic stability, arts, civic engagement, and youth education, the fund invites proposals for initiatives that empower individuals and promote inclusivity. By fostering community input and supporting diverse projects, the fund aims to create a more equitable society where everyone can thrive. This commitment is crucial as racial justice remains a pressing issue in today’s world.

The Micro-Grants Program offers funding between $250 and $500 for small projects in Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, and Tioga counties. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, school districts, and municipalities. Grants support small purchases, supplies, and unexpected expenses. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with decisions made within 10 business days. Each organization may submit only one request per calendar year. Note: Funding is limited and will close when allocated funds are depleted.

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield is committed to improving the health of our communities, making them better places to live, work, play, and raise a family. As a not-for-profit health plan, we strive to offer affordable access to health care. We aim to provide support for efforts focusing on health disparities, social determinants of health, and discrimination affecting our members and their communities. Our investment initiatives aim to help us reach this objective.

Investment opportunities

It is our mission to support impactful community programs, opportunities to seek and apply for funding, and continue to make a real difference. 

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s 31-county region includes: Broome, Cayuga, Chemung, Chenango, Clinton, Cortland, Delaware, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Montgomery, Oneida, Onondaga, Ontario, Otsego, Oswego, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, St. Lawrence, Tioga, Tompkins, Wayne and Yates counties.

Health and Wellness Awards

These awards support funding for initiatives that improve health outcomes by addressing Social Determinants of Health. Priority will be given to proposals targeting conditions and factors linked to adverse health outcomes.

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield is committed to improving the health of our communities, making them better places to live, work, play, and raise a family. As a not-for-profit health plan, we strive to offer affordable access to health care. We aim to provide support for efforts focusing on health disparities, social determinants of health, and discrimination affecting our members and their communities. Our investment initiatives aim to help us reach this objective.

Investment opportunities

It is our mission to support impactful community programs, opportunities to seek and apply for funding, and continue to make a real difference. 

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s 31-county region includes: Broome, Cayuga, Chemung, Chenango, Clinton, Cortland, Delaware, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Montgomery, Oneida, Onondaga, Ontario, Otsego, Oswego, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, St. Lawrence, Tioga, Tompkins, Wayne and Yates counties.

Health Equity Innovation Awards

These awards recognize programs or initiatives that demonstrate a strong commitment to reducing health disparities and achieving measurable improvements in health outcomes. Proposals should include specific examples of how the program is innovative, such as:

• Introducing a novel approach or reaching a new audience
• Integrating technology to enhance impact
• Driving organizational change
• Building meaningful collaborations and partnerships

The George and Margaret Mee Charitable Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Delaware County, NY; Cameron County, PA; and Broome County, NY. It funds educational, community, health, and cultural projects with a minimum award of $1,000. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate sustainability. The foundation does not fund individual awards or religious organizations, and applicants must complete prior grants before submitting new requests.

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield is committed to improving the health of our communities, making them better places to live, work, play, and raise a family. As a not-for-profit health plan, we strive to offer affordable access to health care. We aim to provide support for efforts focusing on health disparities, social determinants of health, and discrimination affecting our members and their communities. Our investment initiatives aim to help us reach this objective.

Investment opportunities

It is our mission to support impactful community programs, opportunities to seek and apply for funding, and continue to make a real difference. 

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s 31-county region includes: Broome, Cayuga, Chemung, Chenango, Clinton, Cortland, Delaware, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Montgomery, Oneida, Onondaga, Ontario, Otsego, Oswego, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, St. Lawrence, Tioga, Tompkins, Wayne and Yates counties.

Sponsorship Program

These awards support programs and events that align with our mission to promote access to high-quality, affordable health care—such as fundraisers, health fairs, seminars, and other health-related events.

The Chobani Community Impact Fund, managed by The Community Foundation for South Central New York, focuses on combating food and nutrition insecurity. It supports initiatives such as community-based meal programs, nutritional education for mothers and caregivers, and efforts to enhance access to food-related public benefits. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) groups benefiting Chenango and Otsego counties, while ineligible requests include funding for capital campaigns and reimbursements for prior costs.

The Griffin Charitable Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Rome and its surrounding areas by supporting initiatives that benefit the community. With a focus on health, wellness, and overall improvement of daily lives, the foundation seeks organizations dedicated to these goals. Interested applicants should be located in the Rome area and align with the foundation's mission. A brief introductory call will provide further insight into the application process.

The JGS Fellowship for Photography offers a $7,000 cash grant to photography artists residing in New York State, excluding New York City. This competitive fellowship supports five artists engaged in traditional and experimental photography. Funded by The Joy of Giving Something, the fellowship aims to assist artists in creating new works and exhibitions. Eligible applicants must be at least 25 years old and have lived in a qualifying region of New York State for at least 12 months.

Mission & Vision

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.

Our Mission:

We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Our Vision:

We envision a Greater Rochester region transformed by enduring philanthropy, where every person, neighborhood, and future generation can thrive.

Elvira Caroselli Creative Spirit Award

Purpose of Scholarship

The Elvira Caroselli Creative Spirit Award will provide small awards to encourage the creative spirit and endeavors of junior and senior high school students.

Number and Size of Awards

Number of recipients and award amounts vary; paid in one lump sum in the Summer. Maximum award $1,500.

Donor Information

Mrs. Caroselli loved creating, designing, and experimenting. This remarkable woman dropped out of school in the eighth grade to help support her family. Despite a lack of formal education, she sold an invention to a major manufacturer when she was 70 years old.

The Polisseni Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in upstate New York by supporting organizations that address community needs in education, human services, and civic improvement. To apply, organizations must submit their IRS 501(c)(3) Determination Letter and ensure their applications are formatted correctly. All submissions must be made two weeks before the scheduled board meeting for consideration.

The Intensive and Sustained Engagement Teams (INSET) RFP by the New York State Office of Mental Health aims to enhance trauma-informed and equitable mental health support for underserved individuals. By contracting with peer-run organizations, the initiative seeks to implement INSET in areas lacking this service, promoting community engagement and support for those traditionally disengaged from mental health services.

The Intercultural Harmony Initiative Grant, provided by the Laura Jane Musser Fund, supports collaborative projects that foster understanding and cooperation among diverse cultural groups. With funding up to $25,000 for implementation and $5,000 for planning, the initiative prioritizes projects that engage various community members, enhance intercultural communication, and demonstrate tangible benefits. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and local governments in select states, with a focus on grassroots participation and addressing community needs.

The Rural Arts Initiative Grant Program, established by the Laura Jane Musser Fund, aims to support nonprofit arts organizations in rural communities. The program encourages access to the arts through scholarships, community engagement, and innovative activities. Priority is given to organizations located in areas with populations under 20,000, ensuring that artistic opportunities are available to both adults and children. Applications are accepted for one year of funding, with potential for up to three consecutive years.

The KeyBank Foundation offers Community Sponsorships to support local organizations in their fundraising efforts. These sponsorships range from $500 to $5,000 and can fund events or provide general operating support. Applications are accepted from January to October, with a decision made within 90 days. Eligible nonprofits must serve areas where KeyBank operates and adhere to strict ineligibility criteria, including no support for individuals or organizations that discriminate based on various identities.

The Citizens Grants: Financial Empowerment program supports nonprofits focused on creating measurable impacts in financial education for low to moderate income individuals and small businesses. This grant emphasizes partnerships with established 501(c)(3) organizations and encourages collaborative efforts that demonstrate alignment with funding priorities. By investing in financial literacy, Citizens aims to enhance fiscal health in underserved communities across select geographic areas.

The New York State Regional School Food Infrastructure Grant Program aims to enhance K-12 meal preparation by utilizing fresh local farm products. With a total funding of $50 million over five years, the program will award $5 million to each of the ten regions, encouraging projects that alleviate food insecurity and bolster market opportunities for local producers. This initiative seeks to strengthen the state's food system resiliency while supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

The Robinson-Broadhurst Foundation, established in 1984, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents in Stamford and Worcester, New York, and Winchendon, Massachusetts. By funding charitable 501(c)(3) organizations, the foundation supports various initiatives, including community health services, historical preservation, education, and public safety. Organizations aligned with these goals are encouraged to apply for grants to foster community spirit and cooperation.

The Chesapeake Bay Small Watershed Grants, offered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the EPA, aim to enhance water quality and restore vital habitats in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Funding is available through two programs: SWG Implementation grants for direct on-the-ground actions, and SWG Planning and Technical Assistance grants to support community-based efforts. Projects must align with specific program priorities to qualify for funding.

What We Do

Since our creation by Congress in 1984, NFWF has grown to become the nation’s largest private conservation foundation. We work with both the public and private sectors to protect and restore our nation’s fish, wildlife, plants and habitats for current and future generations.

NFWF supports conservation efforts across all 50 states and U.S. territories. Since our founding, we've funded over 23,300 rigorously evaluated projects, awarded to both large environmental organizations and small local initiatives. We do not fund advocacy or litigation, and do not conduct membership campaigns. Instead, we focus on achieving results and building a better future for our world.

Chesapeake Bay Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction Grants

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the federal-state Chesapeake Bay Program (CBP) partnership, is soliciting pre-proposals through the Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction (INSR) Grants program to improve water quality and reduce nutrient and sediment pollution to the Chesapeake Bay and its tributary rivers and streams. Major funding for the INSR Grants program is provided by EPA, with other important contributions from Altria Group, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and the U.S. Forest Service. 

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.