Best Energy Efficiency Grants for Nonprofits in Washington

Washington 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on economic and workforce advancement, affordable housing, or community arts and culture can access funding through US Bancorp Foundation. Organizations based in and serving designated U.S. Bank communities, especially those led by people of color and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, may be competitive applicants.

Washington 501(c)(3) nonprofits running programs for children, education, or health and human services can access funding through Costco Foundation to support community-focused services rather than capital or equipment needs. Organizations working on energy efficiency alongside these priorities may be eligible if their proposals demonstrate clear community need, measurable outcomes, collaboration, and a broad base of financial support.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with innovative human services programs in Washington can seek support for new approaches to social challenges. Creag Foundation supports smaller or evolving organizations across areas like health, community development, and public safety. Funding is by invitation only, but eligible groups may submit a letter of inquiry for consideration.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting youth health, education, development, or welfare can apply for up to US $15,000 to run enrichment, advocacy, environmental, or basic-needs programs, including in Washington. With a mission to enrich children’s lives, Dan Paul Foundation provides funding for workshops, scholarships, clean air and water education, homelessness, poverty, and refugee youth services.

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.

Washington nonprofits and NGOs using technology to advance crisis response, education access, or economic empowerment can access funding through Cisco Systems Foundation’s Global Impact Cash Grants. Awards up to US $100,000 support innovative, early-stage, tech-enabled programs serving predominantly economically underserved communities, which may include projects that incorporate energy efficiency or broader climate resilience work.

Educational institutions, government programs, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and 501(c)(4) volunteer fire companies in Washington can seek funding for safety, education, and community development initiatives. Grants from State Farm Companies Foundation help support projects like disaster preparedness, home and auto safety, neighborhood revitalization, and financial literacy, which may complement broader energy efficiency and community resilience efforts.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

Nonprofit organizations working on health, education, or community services in Washington can receive funding for programs such as healthcare access, preventative care, food pantries, and STEM education. Labcorp Charitable Foundation supports U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations and similar charities, and energy-efficiency projects that advance community health or education may be eligible within these focus areas.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations advancing early childhood education or community economic development can seek support for programs in Washington communities where PNC operates. PNC Foundation provides funding for initiatives like preschool learning, workforce readiness, affordable housing, small business support, arts and culture, and services for low- and moderate-income families that promote long-term neighborhood stability.

Charitable organizations in Washington and worldwide working on humanitarian, educational, community, environmental, or contemporary arts projects can seek support for high-quality, sustainable initiatives. Grants from La Roche help accredited charities that engage local partners and employees, including programs that may incorporate energy efficiency or conservation within broader community development or science and education efforts.

Nonprofit organizations providing health, education, or humanitarian services in Washington and other eligible countries can seek support for programs serving marginalized and vulnerable communities. With a mission to empower the disaffected, Semnani Family Foundation provides funding for healthcare access, child welfare, disaster relief, and related human and social services, which may benefit nonprofits also working on energy efficiency or facility improvements.

Washington nonprofits working on energy efficiency or other charitable, educational, scientific, or medical programs can access funding through Sidney Stern Memorial Trust for projects carried out in the U.S. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, tax-exempt under federal law (and California law where applicable), seeking support for broad-impact services and general welfare initiatives.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving communities in Washington and other Southern-region states can seek funding for programs in areas like education, poverty relief, health, disaster relief, and family or youth services. Robinson Foundation provides single-year support to established organizations whose work shows tangible, meaningful impact, which may include projects that incorporate energy efficiency or conservation components.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on community services, environmental conservation, or peacebuilding can apply for support, including those based in Washington. Dudley T Dougherty Foundation provides flexible funding that may benefit nonprofits integrating energy efficiency and conservation into broader environmental or community initiatives.

Washington nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities working in education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, or environmental programs can access funding through Georgia-Pacific Foundation if they are within 30 miles of a GP manufacturing community. Organizations improving local sustainability or efficiency may be eligible, especially those serving communities near GP facilities in Washington.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Washington that support basic needs, at-risk youth, domestic violence safety, or related services and are located within 15 miles of a TJX store, distribution center, or office may be eligible for funding. The TJX Foundation supports these community programs through an LOI-based, invitation-only application process.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and libraries seeking support for environmental or human services work, including in Washington, can apply for unrestricted operating or program funding from the Lawrence Foundation, typically ranging from US $5,000 - US $10,000. Eligible U.S.-headquartered groups working on energy efficiency within these broader areas may benefit.

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.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on basic needs, community development, cultural enrichment, or volunteer-driven causes can apply for Ameriprise Financial’s community grants to support programs in Washington and nationwide. Eligible projects may include hunger relief, shelter and supportive housing, adult self-sufficiency, neighborhood revitalization, arts education, and access to cultural experiences, especially where Ameriprise volunteers are actively engaged.

Washington State Department of Commerce

The Washington State Department of Commerce is the front door of government across our state. Our work touches every corner of Washington and impacts every community. We are advancing the most urgent needs facing our state: the transition to a clean energy economy, climate resilience, housing supply to meet our growing population, and the equitable engagement of communities, Tribes, local governments, and organizations.

Vision: A Washington where every community grows through access to opportunities and innovation. Mission: Commerce fosters resilient communities by building partnerships, delivering resources, and advancing equity through responsive, transparent and collaborative public service. Our Commerce Commitment: Invest. Build. Serve.

State Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates Program

The state Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) Program provides grants to third-party administrators to offer rebates and incentives that help households and small businesses buy and install high-efficiency electric equipment and appliances. Eligible applicants include:

• Low-income, moderate-income (LMI), single and multifamily households, including renters, with household income that is 150% of Area Median Income (AMI) or less based on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Income Limits Dataset for your county
• Small businesses and nonprofit organizations with 50 employees or less
• Adult family homes licensed by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS)

Commerce invested approximately $73.5 million from the Climate Commitment Act in 55 rebate and incentive programs across Washington state from 2024-2025. Commerce anticipates investing an additional $30.1 million to continue existing programs and establish new rebate and incentive programs.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, educational institutions, and youth groups in Washington can seek funding for education, STEM initiatives, and energy efficiency education projects. With a mission to support community vitality, PacifiCorp/Pacific Power/Rocky Mountain Power Foundation provides grants up to US $10,000 for programs such as electrical safety, K–12 and higher education, workforce development, and youth development in its service areas.

Washington nonprofits improving economic stability, workforce readiness, health, or disaster relief can access funding through O'Reilly Automotive Foundation for project, general operating, or capital support. Eligible applicants are U.S.-based 501(c)(3) or equivalent community-benefit organizations located where O’Reilly Auto Parts operates and that do not discriminate in hiring or services.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Washington can access funding for safety, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability projects through Union Pacific Foundation’s Community Ties Local Grants, awarding US $5,000 - US $30,000. Programs advancing energy efficiency, conservation, or broader environmental stewardship in Union Pacific–served communities may be eligible.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

Nonprofit organizations working to help disadvantaged people become self-reliant can apply for US $5,000 - US $250,000 to support social and humanitarian programs, including in Washington. With a mission to uplift disadvantaged individuals, Gupta Family Foundation provides funding to smaller, non-sectarian organizations whose leaders show deep personal commitment and operate efficiently worldwide.