Best Grants for Charities in Pennsylvania

CommonSpirit Health offers the Community Health Improvement Grant to enhance health equity and service systems for underserved populations. Through collaborative efforts with 501(c)(3) organizations, this initiative provides financial support for essential health projects. Grant amounts range from $19,500 for small grants to $150,000 for standard grants, varying by hospital. Participating hospitals include those under Catholic Health Initiatives and Dignity Health, aimed at addressing significant community health needs.

Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency

Established by law in 1978, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) serves as the justice planning and policymaking agency for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. By bringing together a wide range of experts in the fields of criminal and juvenile justice, victim services, and related professions, PCCD coordinates the collective examination of problems, proposes solutions, and evaluates the impact of those solutions.

Nonprofit Security Grant Fund Program

Act 83 of 2019 directs PCCD to administer grants to nonprofit organizations which principally serve individuals, groups, or institutions that are included within a bias motivation category for single bias hate crime incidents as identified by the FBI’s 2017 Hate Crime Statistics publication. The categories include race/ethnicity/ancestry; religion; sexual orientation; disability; gender; and gender identity. Applicants were eligible for security enhancements designed to protect the safety and security of the users of a facility located in the Commonwealth that is owned or operated by the nonprofit organization.

On November 24, 2025, PCCD released the solicitation under this program via SurveyMonkey with the application period being closed on January 12, 2026. Priority consideration in the application review process was given to those nonprofit organizations that indicated that their organization or membership was the victim of a hate-crime and clearly articulated a credible hate-crime threat to their organization or served a population clearly susceptible to a hate-crime.

Funding under this non-competitive announcement is limited to supporting the 191 Nonprofit Security Grant Program applicant agencies as identified in Appendix A (of atteched PDF document).

READY Communities grant program

The READY Communities Funding Collaborative is a new public-philanthropic pilot grantmaking program sponsored by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging (PDA), coordinated by Grantmakers In Aging (GIA), and supported by Pennsylvania’s philanthropic organizations. 

The Collaborative will align state and philanthropic funding to support Pennsylvania’s communities in becoming accessible, inclusive, vibrant places for older adults, people with dementia, and neighbors of all ages.  

The Funding Collaborative will advance Aging Our Way, PA—the Commonwealth’s 10-year Multisector Plan on Aging (MPA). This plan serves as a roadmap for the state to ensure that all Pennsylvanians have the supports they need to age with dignity and independence.  

Grant applicants may propose small-scale, neighborhood-level projects or larger efforts with a regional reach. All projects must align with at least one of the Aging Our Way, PA priority areas listed below:

• Unlocking Access
• Aging in Community
• Gateways to Independence
• Caregiver Supports
• Education and Navigation 

The intention of this pilot grant program is to fund new and innovative programs, support the expansion of existing programs to serve new populations, and/or enhance the delivery of existing programs in new ways. Projects should demonstrate potential for scalability, shared learning, and cross-community benefit.

Examples of Projects That Can Be Funded:

• Hosting a memory café or social connection program
• Developing an intergenerational creative arts program
• Launching a new culturally appropriate community program for addressing end-of-life needs
• Developing or expanding a village, hub, or navigation model
• Scaling a community dementia awareness initiative
• Growing a coalition or multisector partnership to apply for the Age-Friendly Communities designation or improve age-friendly programs and design

Organizations can request $10,000, $25,000, or $50,000. 

Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry

The Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) employs more than 5,000 workers in 200 offices statewide. Established in 1913, the department originally inspected the working conditions in factories around the state. Over time, the department's responsibilities expanded.

L&I administers benefits to unemployed individuals, oversees the administration of workers' compensation benefits to individuals with job-related injuries, and provides vocational rehabilitation to individuals with disabilities. The department prepares job seekers for the global workforce through employment and job training services for adult, youth, older workers, and dislocated workers. In addition, L&I enforces various laws and safety standards in the workplace and administers the commonwealth's programs for community service by young Pennsylvanians. L&I also promotes economic development and an improved business climate through a variety of initiatives and programs to help Pennsylvania's workforce remain world-class and globally competitive.

Pennsylvania’s Workforce Professionals in Digital Infrastructure (WPDI)

The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) announces the availability of approximately $2 million in funding through the Workforce Professionals in Digital Infrastructure (WPDI) Grant. One grant will be awarded through a competitive process. L&I developed this grant opportunity as part of a broader, collaborative framework to align workforce strategies with both regional economic development goals and statewide priorities. The WPDI Grant is designed to support the development of a comprehensive investment plan focused on building regional capacity and creating industry-led solutions to ensure Pennsylvanians have the appropriate skills and experiences essential to the construction, power, supply and operations of Pennsylvania’s digital infrastructure—particularly in the data center sector.

Training and workforce strategies funded through this grant will be data-informed and guided by labor market insights. The goal is to ensure that the resulting employment opportunities are high-quality—offering strong wages, benefits, career advancement potential, and alignment with industry standards for worker protections and long-term stability—including those commonly associated with union-covered roles. The selected awardee will create a regional response team of dedicated partners with the expertise, experience and capacity to jointly address the in-demand workforce needs of a data center located in Salem Township, Luzerne County.

The Sun Club Sustainability Grant, offered by Green Mountain Energy, empowers U.S.-based nonprofits to implement sustainability initiatives. Established in 2002, this grant supports diverse projects, including clean transportation, renewable energy, and resource conservation. Organizations must demonstrate three years of tax-exempt status and a commitment to community impact. Awards range from $50,000 to $400,000, focusing on measurable environmental, social, and financial benefits. Join us in fostering a greener future through innovative solutions and community engagement.

The DCNR Land Acquisition and Conservation Grants support projects aimed at purchasing or donating land for parks, recreation areas, greenways, and critical habitats. Eligible applicants include county and municipal governments, educational institutions, and prequalified land trusts. The grants promote public access to community spaces and protect essential ecosystems, ensuring sustainable land use for future generations. For more details, applicants should refer to the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund Act guidelines.

The DCNR Park Rehabilitation and Development Grants support projects aimed at enhancing public parks and recreation facilities. Eligible applicants include local governments and educational institutions, with grants ranging from $60,000 to $100,000. Projects must comply with federal and state regulations, and focus on rehabilitation, new development, or river conservation initiatives. A 50% match is typically required, encouraging community involvement in maintaining and improving local green spaces.

The H. G. Barsumian, M.D. Memorial Fund Grant supports organizations engaged in medical research, primarily benefiting the Lancaster, Pennsylvania community. Established in 1998, this fund reflects the commitment of Jane Barsumian and Mary Lyons to enhance medical advancements. Grants average $25,000, with around five grants awarded annually. Eligibility requires organizations to be 501(c)(3) exempt. Although there are no geographic limitations, preference is given to local entities to foster community development.

The Abandoned Mine Drainage Abatement and Treatment Program (AMDATP) is funded by the Marcellus Legacy Fund as established by Act 13 of 2012. This program aims to address the critical issue of Abandoned Mine Drainage (AMD), which significantly impairs over 5,500 miles of Pennsylvania's streams. Eligible projects can receive grants up to $1,000,000, requiring at least a 15% match, focusing on remediation, maintenance, and monitoring of AMD sites.

The Orphan or Abandoned Well Plugging Grant Program, established under Act 13 of 2012, allocates funds for the effective plugging of orphaned oil and gas wells in Pennsylvania. With hundreds of thousands of such wells in the state, this program addresses critical health, safety, and environmental concerns by funding projects aimed at plugging these hazardous wells. Eligible projects include cleaning, plugging, and implementing stray gas mitigation systems.

The AdvoCare Foundation, established in 1993, aims to promote health and wellness for children through its grant program. Focused on year-round initiatives, the foundation supports local communities where AdvoCare distributors operate. Grants typically last one year with an average funding of $25,000, although multi-year support may be available. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster positive health changes and encourages collaborative efforts with previous grantees.

The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority Grant Program offers low-interest loans and grants for improvements in drinking water, storm water, and sewage treatment facilities. Eligible entities include municipalities, authorities, and private operators. Total project assistance can reach up to $11 million, or $20 million for multi-municipality projects. Applicants must consult with a PENNVEST Regional Project Specialist prior to submission. This program aims to enhance water management and pollution prevention practices across the state.

The Pennsylvania Rivers Conservation Program aims to protect and enhance Pennsylvania’s waterways.

The program - administered by DCNR’s Bureau of Recreation and Conservation - provides technical and financial assistance to partners to carry out activities that improve watershed health and/or provide water-based outdoor recreation opportunities.

Although the program name emphasizes rivers work, it supports initiatives that benefit all types of waterways and significant water resources.

Initiatives included in the DCNR Rivers Conservation Program are:

• Grants for projects to restore and protect rivers and watersheds, and provide waterway access and recreation
• Scenic Rivers
• Rivers Registry
• River of the Year and sojourns
• Water trails
• Stream and wetland restoration
• Small dam removal
• Boat launch, boardwalk, and fishing access installation

The One Hive Foundation Grant focuses on promoting pollinator health and ecologically responsible agriculture through funding research and nonprofit initiatives. Launched in 2022, the grant supports diverse projects aimed at enhancing environmental data, public education, and scientific collaboration. Targeting verified 501c3 organizations, the foundation emphasizes ecological practices and community engagement in Vermont and beyond, with grants of up to $75,000 available to eligible applicants.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Pennsylvania, funded by USDA Rural Development, support eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that threaten safe drinking water. Grants can be used for water transmission line projects up to $150,000 and water source construction up to $1,000,000. This initiative aims to restore access to clean water in rural areas, benefiting households and businesses after disasters, enhancing the environment, and promoting local economic growth.

Endowment Act - CACs/DVSOs Grant Program

Overview:

Act 1 of 2013, better known as the “Endowment Act,” directs PCCD to distribute $48 million in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) monetary penalties levied on the Pennsylvania State University (PSU) to the victims of child sexual abuse in the Commonwealth.

Act 1 states: “Unless otherwise expressly stated in the agreement, the funds may only be used within the Commonwealth for the benefit of the residents of this Commonwealth and on any of the following:

• Programs or projects preventing child sexual abuse and/or assisting the victims of child sexual abuse.
• Multidisciplinary Investigative Teams established under 23 Pa.C.S. (relating to domestic relations).
• Child Advocacy Centers.
• Victim service organizations that provide services to children subjected to sexual abuse.
• Training of persons who are mandated by law to report child sexual abuse or to treat victims of child sexual abuse.”

The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) is now accepting applications for funding under the Endowment Act, specifically for Categories 3 (Child Advocacy Centers (CACs)) and 4 (Direct Victim Service Organizations that provide services to children subjected to sexual abuse (DVSOs)). 

Funding Availability:

A total of $3,000,000 in state Endowment Act Categories 3 (CACs) & 4 (DVSOs) funds is being announced to support this initiative. PCCD expects to fund 30 grants with budgets not to exceed $100,000 over the 2-year project period.

Applicant agencies may submit only ONE application under this funding announcement. Due to the competitive nature of these funds, PCCD is not able to provide guidance to applicants on which category they should select.

At the direction of the Child Advocacy Center Advisory Committee (CACAC), at least $1.5 million of the funding (50% of the total released) is to be reserved for Category 3 (CACs) applicants. Should the amount requested under Category 3 exceed 50% of the requested funding, then the amount awarded under each category will be dependent on the percentage of the total dollar amount requested under each category. For example, if 60% of the funding is requested under Category 3 (CACs), and 40% of the funding is requested under Category 4 (DVSOs), then $1,800,000 (60% of available funding) would be allocated to support CAC applicants and $1,200,000 (40% of available funding) would be allocated to support DVSO applicants.

PCCD is not liable for costs incurred prior to the official start date of the award. 

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

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 Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection offers Environmental Education Grants to enhance environmental literacy among youth and adults. Funding supports diverse projects, including hands-on programs for students and community workshops. Priorities focus on climate change, water quality, and environmental justice, with mini grants up to $5,000 and general grants ranging from $5,001 to $65,000. Projects must engage participants from multiple counties and include members from Environmental Justice communities, fostering sustainable resource management.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

The Dairy Farm Improvement & Modernization Grant supports dairy farmers in enhancing their operations for sustainable success. This funding aids in modernizing outdated systems and implementing innovative solutions that improve farm viability, milk quality, and worker conditions while addressing climate impacts. Eligible applicants include dairy farmers, cooperatives, and service providers across Northeast states. Awards range from $15,000 to $100,000, requiring a 25% match contribution.

The Cigna Group Foundation is launching the Improving Youth Mental Health Grant, committing $9 million over three years to enhance mental health support for youth aged five to 18. This initiative targets post-pandemic challenges, offering resources to parents, caregivers, and youth service professionals. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply for funding between $100,000 and $150,000 to develop programs that promote social-emotional skills, enhance caregiver support, and improve access to mental health interventions in underserved communities.

The Main Street Matters program supports downtown revitalization through grants that enhance community planning, business development, and safety improvements. Eligible applicants include local governments, redevelopment authorities, and non-profit organizations. Funding is flexible, aimed at initiatives such as planning activities and business improvement grants, with a maximum grant amount of $50,000 and a required 25% match. This initiative fosters vibrant, welcoming neighborhoods and encourages strategic investments to address community needs.

2025-27 Violence & Delinquency Prevention Programs

Overview

The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) is now accepting applications under the 2025-27 Violence and Delinquency Prevention Programs (VDPP) solicitation. The primary purpose of this competitive solicitation is to advance state and local projects that align with priorities and needs articulated in Pennsylvania’s 2025 Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Plan (“2025 Plan”) and PCCD’s 2026-2030 Strategic Framework. The 2025 Plan includes recommendations and strategies identified by PCCD’s Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Committee (JJDPC) as essential for improving the Commonwealth’s prevention, diversion, intervention, and juvenile justice system infrastructure.

The goal of this initiative is to strengthen community-based strategies that prevent youth violence, delinquency, and other problem behaviors, expand diversion and deflection opportunities, and support successful reentry in accordance with Balanced and Restorative Justice guiding principles.

VDPP funds will focus on priorities identified within the 2025 Plan, especially activities/needs that cannot be addressed meaningfully using other available PCCD funding streams.

The anticipated impacts resulting from this solicitation may include: 

• Improved effectiveness of local early prevention programs and practices;
• Increased use of diversion and deflection practices to reduce unnecessary or deepened juvenile justice system involvement;
• Reduced recidivism by youth coming out of the juvenile justice system through the development of improved competency and life skills;
• Increased youth engagement and direct involvement in improving policies, practices, and the programming provided across the entire continuum of care from early prevention through reentry/aftercare; and
• Improved cross-system collaboration and innovation to increase coordination of services and programming available to youth and families in all communities of the Commonwealth.

The Mid-Atlantic Environmental Justice Fund aims to promote environmental justice through community forestry initiatives. This grant supports workforce development in forestry, focusing on job training for historically marginalized communities. It encourages partnerships with educational institutions and local organizations to create equitable job opportunities in tree planting and maintenance. The fund is co-led by the Chesapeake Bay Trust and various community partners, emphasizing a collaborative approach to improve health and sustainability in the Mid-Atlantic region.

The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) invites applications for funding under the Endowment Act, distributing $48 million from NCAA penalties to support child sexual abuse prevention and victim assistance. This funding specifically targets Multidisciplinary Investigative Teams (MDITs) to develop satellite Child Advocacy Centers (CAC) in counties lacking sufficient cases. The goal is to enhance support for child abuse victims and improve response capabilities across the Commonwealth.

The Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (Region 1) is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation to provide critical support for small businesses in the transportation sector. This initiative, under NOFO Number OST/OSDBU-2026-SBTTAC-Region 1-FY2026-1, aims to establish a center that offers technical assistance and resources for small and disadvantaged businesses, ensuring their growth and success in the transportation industry.