Best Grants for 501(c)(3) in Pennsylvania

The Keystone Historic Preservation Construction Grants provide funding for construction activities aimed at rehabilitating, restoring, or preserving historic resources listed or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. This program, supported by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, is available to nonprofit organizations and local governments for small projects that enhance publicly accessible historic properties. Grant awards range from $5,000 to $100,000, requiring a 50/50 cash match.

The PA Fair Fund offers Capital Improvement Matching Grants to support agricultural fairs and youth organizations in Pennsylvania. These grants, established under the Agricultural Fair Act of 1986, assist in funding new construction and maintenance of physical structures on fairgrounds. Eligible projects include building construction, utility improvements, and infrastructure enhancements. A 50% cash match is required, and in-kind contributions are not accepted. This funding aims to enhance the facilities and overall experience at agricultural fairs across the state.

The Pennsylvania Fair Fund supports agricultural fairs with operating and premium reimbursement through the Agricultural Fair Operating and Premium Reimbursement Program. Eligible fairs can receive up to $14,000 for operating costs, plus 50% reimbursement for premiums, capped at $15,000. This program aims to enhance educational activities and exhibits while ensuring compliance with state guidelines, thereby fostering community engagement in agriculture.

PennDOT provides traffic safety grants to local governments, PA state-related universities and PA State System of Higher Education universities, and nonprofit organizations to improve highway safety and reduce deaths and serious injuries due to crashes. First-time applicants must be pre approved by first submitting a letter of interest to RA-PDSHSO_GRANTS@pa.gov. Letters must be written on agency letterhead and include the organization’s FEIN, a summary of the proposed project, a budget estimate, and the specific local grant opportunity listed below that the agency intends to pursue.Statewide DUI Program coordinates technical services in support of the Commonwealth's Impaired Driving Program, including specialized training and statewide coordination of the Drug Evaluation and Classification (DEC) Program.

Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) - Pennsylvania

This program provides funding for physical and cybersecurity enhancements and other security-related activities to nonprofit organizations that are at high-risk of a terrorist or other extremist attack.

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program also seeks to integrate the preparedness activities of nonprofit organizations with broader stated and local preparedness efforts,

Program Basics

• Federal program administered by PEMA
• Reimbursement based grant
• 36-month period of performance
• No cost-share requirement
• Maximum award request is $200,000 for both NSGP-UA and NSGP-S
•  Nonprofits with multiple sites (multiple locations/physical addresses) can apply for additional sites, per funding stream (NSGP-S and NSGP-UA). Each location MUST have an individual application and a unique risk assessment specific to the location. No combination of site locations can exceed $600,000 per funding stream.

What Can Funds Be Used For?

The grant program seeks to integrate preparedness activities of nonprofit organizations with broader state and local preparedness efforts.

This funding for eligible nonprofit organizations is generally limited to target hardening and physical security enhancements.

NSGP funds may be used for:

• Planning related to the protection of the facility and people within the facility.
• Equipment focused on target hardening and physical security enhancements.
• Training and Exercise for nonprofit security personnel to attend security-related training courses and programs or participate in security-related exercises.
• Contracted Security personnel are allowed under this program only as described in this NOFO. The recipient must be able to sustain this capability in future years without NSGP funding. NSGP funds may not be used to purchase equipment for contracted security.
• Construction and Renovation with pre-approval from DHS/FEMA.
• Management and Administration (M&A) for costs directly related to the administration of NSGP funds.

State Library of Pennsylvania

The Office of Commonwealth Libraries (OCL) within the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) supports, develops, and provides library services for learning and advancement.

About

The Office of Commonwealth Libraries (OCL) within the Pennsylvania Departme​nt of Education (PDE) supports, develops, and provides library services for learning and advancement.​

We collect, preserve, and connect government, libraries, and residents to the information and resources they need to build a successful Pennsylvania.

Grants: Local Library

Grant Description

The Office of Commonwealth Libraries (OCL) is accepting applications for Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Action Grants.

Action Grants provide funding of up to $10,000 per project for high-impact initiatives that strengthen library services and create lasting community benefit. These grants support libraries in addressing pressing local needs, deepening partnerships, and building organizational capacity.

Projects may include, but are not limited to: community-focused services, professional development for library staff, trustees, or volunteers, planning studies, community-responsive collections, programming supplies and materials, outreach initiatives, accessibility upgrades, and technology enhancements.

These grants advance OCL’s priority of Libraries as Community Catalyst, supporting libraries in understanding and responding to community needs through deep engagement, effective partnerships, and strategic resource sharing. Additional information is available in the Office of Commonwealth Libraries Five Year Plan.

No specific funding amounts are set aside for particular project types. Awards will be made to the most competitive proposals that demonstrate meaningful community engagement, equitable partnerships, and responsive service design.

Funding for this opportunity is contingent upon OCL receiving its federal award from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

This project is made possible by Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) funds from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Office of Commonwealth Libraries. 

The Dunkin' Joyful Spaces Grant supports children's hospitals and community health centers in creating joyful environments for pediatric patients. Launched in 2022, this initiative helps fund play areas, healing gardens, and other kid-friendly spaces, enhancing the hospital experience. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $65,000 annually, with a maximum of $150,000 over three years. This opportunity encourages creativity in designing spaces that provide comfort and joy to children and their families during hospital stays.

The Leeway Foundation's Community Care Fund (CCF) offers financial aid up to $1,250 for women and trans artists facing urgent needs. Established during the COVID-19 pandemic, the fund addresses critical requirements like housing and utilities, ensuring support for marginalized artists. With over $679,000 distributed in recent years, the CCF continues to serve eligible applicants in 2025, emphasizing the importance of emergency funding in the arts community.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant for schools to implement the PLTW Biomedical Science program for the 2026-2029 academic years. Eligible schools can receive up to $14,000 to cover participation fees and training costs. This grant encourages public, private, and charter schools across the U.S. to enhance their science curriculum, supporting students with engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Schools must commit to offering specific courses during the grant period to qualify for funding.

PennDOT Behavioral Highway Safety Grants

PennDOT’s Behavioral Traffic Safety Unit offers traffic safety grants to support local communities and organizations working to make Pennsylvania’s roads safer. Eligible applicants include local governments, universities within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, Pennsylvania state related universities, and nonprofit organizations.

These grants are funded through federal programs administered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) under 23 U.S.C. §402 and §405. Funding follows the federal fiscal year, which runs from October 1 through September 30.

Grant opportunities focus on proven, data driven strategies that address the most urgent traffic safety challenges across the Commonwealth. Available funds are allocated using formulas based on crash data to ensure resources are directed where they can make the greatest impact.

Community Traffic Safety Project (CTSP)

Traffic safety educational outreach programs to schools and communities targeting local safety issues identified through data analysis. Provide support towards national and statewide enforcement mobilizations and other programs. Applicants for these grants must be a PA county government.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, led by the Arbor Day Foundation, aims to enhance college campuses through tree planting and care. By fostering green spaces, the program improves the college experience, promotes sustainability, and provides mental health benefits. Schools can achieve recognition by meeting five key standards, encouraging student involvement in environmental stewardship. This initiative not only beautifies campuses but also contributes to tackling climate change and creating a healthier environment for all.

PDA Agricultural Promotion Matching Grant Program

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is offering grants through the Agricultural Product Promotion, Education, and Export Promotion Matching Grant Program for the 2025-2026 grant period. With up to $381,810 in available funding, the program supports nonprofit organizations working on market research, development, and promotion of agricultural products grown, raised, or produced in Pennsylvania.

Program Objectives

Grants provide matching funds (up to 50%) for projects focused on:

• Market Research: Identifying opportunities for Pennsylvania agricultural products.
• Education: Educating producers and consumers about market opportunities.
• Export Promotion: Supporting the development of export markets for local agricultural products.

Grant Requirements

• Minimum Grant Amount: $1,000.
• Funds must be used for specific project expenses, such as market research, trade shows, or consultant fees. However, permanent personnel costs are not eligible.

The F26AS00104 State ANS Management Plan 2026 aims to combat aquatic nuisance species through pre-proposals followed by full applications. Managed by the US Department of the Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service, this initiative requires a 25% cost-share and limits administrative costs to 5%. Applications are due by October 14, 2026, though the funding opportunity closes on December 16, 2026. The plan is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting a coordinated national approach to invasive species management.

The NRP Young Investigator Award is designed to support research on optimizing newborn care during delivery using Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) techniques. This grant encourages innovative projects addressing gaps in transitional physiology and resuscitation practices. Eligible applicants include researchers from Canadian and US institutions, particularly those in training or within four years of completing medical training. Awardees may receive up to $15,000 to enhance their skills and knowledge, ultimately improving neonatal outcomes.

The Booth Ferris Foundation's Higher Education Grant Program offers crucial capacity-building support to eligible higher education institutions in New York State, requiring an annual budget exceeding $1 million. Established in 1957, the Foundation has contributed over $425 million to various charitable causes. This program focuses on enhancing institutional effectiveness and sustainability, ensuring that organizations can thrive and serve their communities effectively. Note that the Foundation does not fund requests from individual schools or certain types of support.

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding up to $25,000 for organizations focused on improving health outcomes in underserved communities. Established in 1943, the foundation prioritizes health equity through strategic partnerships aimed at reducing cancer burdens, preparing healthcare professionals, and enhancing crisis response efforts. Eligible applicants include national and local nonprofits targeting specific regions in the U.S. and Canada. The foundation emphasizes projects that align with its mission and demonstrate significant community impact.

The T32 Institutional Pediatric Research grant at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia aims to enhance the training of pediatricians in research methodologies. With a strong focus on basic, translational, and clinical research, this program seeks to develop skilled physician-scientists who will address critical health issues affecting children. The institute's commitment to excellence ensures that three trainee slots are available annually, fostering innovative solutions for pediatric health challenges.

The Preschool Development Grant Birth Through Five (PDG B-5) SMART Grant aims to enhance early care and education systems in the U.S. by supporting targeted investments in technology and data analytics. This initiative, led by the Administration for Children and Families, encourages states to improve program quality, family choice, and data-driven decision-making for children from birth to five years old. The funding is designed to create measurable outcomes and strengthen coordination within the mixed-delivery system.

The Sergeant John Basilone Memorial Graduate Scholarship, offered by the UNICO Foundation, provides two awards of $3,000 each for graduate students of Italian descent. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, enrolled full-time in accredited programs, and reside in specified states. The scholarship supports students pursuing graduate studies in the academic year 2026-2027. UNICO promotes Italian American heritage and community service, making this scholarship a valuable opportunity for deserving students.

Northeast SARE

The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program offers competitive grants to farmers, educators, agricultural service providers, researchers, graduate students and others to address key issues affecting the sustainability of agriculture throughout our region. Northeast SARE is one of four regional SARE programs funded by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The program—including funding decisions—is driven by the Northeast SARE outcome statement:

Agriculture in the Northeast will be diversified and profitable, providing healthful products to customers. Farmers and the people they work with will steward resources to ensure sustainability and resilience, and foster conditions where farmers have high quality of life and communities can thrive.

Northeast SARE Research and Education Grants

The purpose of the Research and Education grant program is to invest in education for farmers that leads to changes in farmer behavior, decision-making, and/or practices. These changes must increase the sustainability of farming in the Northeast United States. A Research and Education project can also include an applied research component, related to the educational activities.

• The primary audience are farmers, ranchers, and farm employees (henceforth “farmers”) that meet Northeast SARE’s Definition of a Farm.
• Farmers must be engaged in demonstrating the need for and the design of the project.
• Anyone who works in farming, including farmers, can lead a Research and Education project.
• The education program must be useful to farmers regardless of the results of any optional research component.

This grant program seeks innovative projects that improve existing practices or introduce existing practices to new farmer audiences.

The PA Heart & Soul Grant is a unique initiative aimed at empowering Pennsylvania communities with fewer than 30,000 residents. Through a comprehensive four-phase process—Imagine, Connect, Plan, and Act—residents engage in storytelling to shape action plans that reflect their town's identity. Selected towns can receive up to $50,000 over 2-3 years, along with expert coaching and training worth over $50,000 annually, fostering sustainable community development.

The Northeast SARE: Farmer Grant Program supports innovative sustainable agriculture projects by providing funding to farmers. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $30,000 enable farmers to conduct research, implement new ideas, and address issues affecting long-term sustainability. This program encourages proposals that explore diverse topics such as crop production, livestock raising, urban agriculture, and climate-smart practices. Successful projects promise significant benefits to farming communities while fostering collaboration and education within the agricultural sector.

Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation Inc supports independent medical education to enhance healthcare professional competence and improve patient health outcomes. Their mission is to be a global leader in innovative medical education, focusing on evidence-based activities that address critical gaps in knowledge. By fostering excellence in healthcare, they aim to ensure measurable improvements in performance and patient outcomes across various disease areas.

Northeast SARE

The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program offers competitive grants to farmers, educators, agricultural service providers, researchers, graduate students and others to address key issues affecting the sustainability of agriculture throughout our region. Northeast SARE is one of four regional SARE programs funded by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture. The program—including funding decisions—is driven by the Northeast SARE outcome statement:

Agriculture in the Northeast will be diversified and profitable, providing healthful products to customers. Farmers and the people they work with will steward resources to ensure sustainability and resilience, and foster conditions where farmers have high quality of life and communities can thrive.

Professional Development Grant

The Professional Development Grant program funds projects that help service providers improve the way they work with farmers through research-based education. These projects result in a change in practice or behavior by service providers that supports farmers in sustainable agriculture innovation.

Northeast SARE’s definition of a service provider is a professional who assists farmers as part of their work. Typical audiences include extension educators, consultants, agency personnel, and not-for-profit organization staff. Project audiences may include realtors, bankers, attorneys, or farmers who help other farmers.

The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program provides grants for graduate students to research sustainable agriculture under faculty supervision. Proposals should address relevant issues for Northeast farmers and agricultural professionals. Projects should align with themes of stewardship, profitability, and quality of life. The aim is to support diversified and profitable agriculture in the Northeast, enhancing community and environmental well-being through effective resource management.

The PA Fair Fund - State Agricultural Organization Funds Reimbursement Program supports Pennsylvania's Statewide Agricultural Organizations by reimbursing eligible expenses for agricultural events. Organizations can receive up to $2,000 in base funding and 50% reimbursement on premium costs, not exceeding $10,000. This funding enhances local economies by creating jobs, boosting tourism, and enabling farmers to directly market their products. Organizations must cover costs upfront, with grants awarded based on available funds.

The George I. Alden Trust offers a Higher Education Grant aimed at supporting independent colleges and universities in New England, New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. The Trust prioritizes capital needs to enhance the educational experience, approving grants up to $100,000 for first-time applicants. Eligible institutions must have a minimum of 1,000 full-time undergraduate students and demonstrate a commitment to educational excellence and effective administration.