Best Grants for Environmental Justice in Pennsylvania

Environmental and climate justice nonprofits in Pennsylvania and nearby states can seek funding for grassroots organizing, policy advocacy, and movement-building that advance racial and climate justice. Grants from Scherman Foundation help BIPOC-led or BIPOC-accountable organizations working on issues like pollution, mass transit, green jobs, and climate resilience, with a primary focus on New York but some support in Pennsylvania.

The Abelard Foundation, established in 1958, supports progressive social change projects located east of the Mississippi River. With an average grant size of $12,000, they prioritize new initiatives with budgets under $350,000. The foundation emphasizes community organizing, civil rights, and empowering marginalized groups. Eligible applicants must be associated with a nonprofit organization and demonstrate a commitment to local leadership and broader policy connections. The board meets biannually to decide on approximately 15 grants per year, focusing mainly on general support.

Pennsylvania environmental justice and conservation nonprofits can access funding for community-centered projects improving land, water, and air quality. Pittsburgh Foundation offers US $10,000 - US $75,000 grants, prioritizing Allegheny County and organizations serving communities impacted by poverty, to expand greenspace access, advance clean water initiatives, address pollution-related health disparities, and support climate adaptation and stewardship.