Best Grants for Museums in Pennsylvania

The STOP Statewide Training and Technical Assistance: Sexual Assault Project, funded by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, aims to enhance the understanding of sexual assault within Pennsylvania. This initiative targets victim advocates, law enforcement, and prosecutors, ensuring they receive comprehensive training and technical support. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, the project seeks to improve responses to sexual violence and ultimately support victims more effectively. Reports are required quarterly through Egrants.

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.

Substance Abuse Education and Demand Reduction (SAEDR) Grants

These funds exist to support projects designed to educate the public about the dangers of substance abuse and/or reduce demand for these substances.

Category Three 

The goal of SAEDR Category 3 funding is to educate employers, unions, and employees about the dangers of substance use in the workplace and provide comprehensive drug-free workplace programs and technical resources for businesses. This includes, but is not limited to, training for working parents to keep their children drug-free.

The objectives and anticipated impacts:

• Increase awareness in the workplace of the dangers of substance misuse.
• Increase the resources available to employers to improve their comprehensive drugfree workplace programs.
• Improve employee attendance.
• Decrease workplace incidents attributable to substance misuse.
• Increase in knowledge of targeted populations and a reduction in the number of individuals that misuse and abuse substances. 

Statewide nonprofit organizations may partner with governmental entities, including school entities, provided the statewide nonprofit organization is the applicant agency.

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.

Substance Abuse Education and Demand Reduction (SAEDR) Grants

These funds exist to support projects designed to educate the public about the dangers of substance abuse and/or reduce demand for these substances.

Category Two 

The goal of SAEDR Category 2 funding is to educate youth, caregivers of youth, and employers about the dangers of substance use; and increase the awareness of the benefits of a drug-free Pennsylvania through media-related efforts that may include public service announcements, public awareness campaigns, and media literacy. Special consideration will be given to projects that focus on the use of opiates within the Commonwealth.

The objectives and anticipated impacts:

• Increase awareness among youth and employers related to the dangers of substance use; and
• Decrease substance use problems. 

Statewide nonprofit organizations may partner with governmental entities, including school entities, provided the statewide nonprofit organization is the applicant agency.

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.

Substance Abuse Education and Demand Reduction (SAEDR) Grants: Category One

Overview

The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) is now accepting applications for funding under the state Substance Abuse Education and Demand Reduction (SAEDR) Category One funds. 18 Pa.C.S. § 7508.1 (relating to Substance Abuse Education and Demand Reduction Fund) establishes PCCD’s responsibility for the administration of the SAEDR Fund.The primary purpose of these funds is to support projects designed to educate the public about the dangers of substance abuse and/or reduce demand for these substances. The Act mandates SAEDR grant funds to be awarded to eligible organizations for use in specifically defined categories. Category One funding is available only to nonprofit organizations. 

Nonprofit organizations may partner with governmental entities, including school entities, provided the nonprofit organization is the applicant. 

Violent Incident Clearance and Technological Investigative Methods (VICTIM) Program Grants

The goal and objective of Track 1:

NIBRS Readiness Grants is to increase the number of local law enforcement agencies submitting data to the Pennsylvania State Police and the U.S. Department of Justice through NIBRS, which is the successor federal crime data reporting system to the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) System. Despite recent investments to support local law enforcement agencies’ transition from UCR, Pennsylvania’s compliance rate with reporting data through NIBRS remains among the lowest of all states. With the U.S. Department of Justice (US DOJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) stating that all agencies must be NIBRS compliant in reporting no later than January 1, 2028, this solicitation seeks to offset the costs of some agencies seeking to meet that standard and increase Pennsylvania’s statewide NIBRS compliance rates.

The goal and objective of Track 2:

Implementation Grants is to afford local law enforcement agencies that are already NIBRS-compliant the opportunity to purchase technology, equipment, training, and other allowable activities to improve clearances rates of homicides and other violent crimes, including rape, aggravated assault, and robbery. NIBRS-compliant agencies will be expected to track measurable outcomes to show improvement in clearance rates related to one or more of these violent offenses.

Funding Availability:

A total of $3,425,000 in FY2026-27 State VICTIM Act funding is being announced to support this initiative.1

Under Track 1: NIBRS Readiness Grants, PCCD expects to fund approximately 20 grants with budgets not to exceed $50,000 over the 18-month project period. No less than $1,000,000 will be used to assist local law enforcement agencies who are not yet NIBRS compliant in achieving compliance (i.e., identified by the Pennsylvania State Police at the end of the project as a NIBRS reporting agency). Applicants that fail to achieve this standard by the final close-out report may be asked to return funding. Law enforcement agencies that have not received prior funding from PCCD for NIBRS compliance will be considered more favorably.

Under Track 2: Implementation Grants, PCCD expects to fund approximately five grants with budgets not to exceed $500,000 over the 18-month project period.

The DCNR All-Terrain Vehicle and Snowmobile Grant Program supports projects that enhance Pennsylvania's outdoor recreation. Eligible applicants include municipalities and pre-qualified organizations focused on ATV and snowmobile trails. The grant covers land acquisition, planning, development, maintenance, and educational programs, promoting safety and environmental protection. Funding is sourced from the ATV and Snowmobile Management Restricted Accounts, encouraging community conservation and responsible enjoyment of natural resources.

The Capacity Building Initiative (CBI) by the Chesapeake Bay Funders Network aims to enhance the organizational capacity of groups working towards community well-being and natural resource management. Funded projects may include strategic planning, staff training, and technology assistance, with funding requests typically capped at $40,000 for nonprofits and $150,000 for local governments. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and local governments operating within the Chesapeake watershed, focusing on water and natural resource goals.

Who We Are

A national organization with a local feel.

Founded in 1992, The Food Trust works with neighborhoods, institutions, retailers, farmers, and policymakers across the country to ensure delicious, nutritious food for all.

Pennsylvania Fresh Food Financing Initiative

A statewide public-private financing program administered by The Food Trust, PA FFFI helps business owners open or expand healthy grocery outlets in communities throughout the commonwealth.

Overseen by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), the PA FFFI is administered by The Food Trust in partnership with Pennsylvania-based community development financial institutions (CDFIs).

The program provides grants and technical assistance to nonprofit, for-profit and cooperative food businesses that help increase access to healthy, affordable food and improve economic opportunities for low- to moderate-income residents of urban, suburban and rural areas of Pennsylvania. Grant awards will range from $5,000 – $200,000.

The PA Agriculture and Youth Program Grant offers funding to youth-centered organizations and projects that promote agricultural, leadership, and vocational skills. With a total of $500,000 available, grants can be direct, non-matching up to $7,500, or matching grants up to $25,000 for capital projects. Eligible applicants include agriculture and youth organizations focused on education, safety training, and community development.

The Sister Mary Daniel Ruffing Nursing Scholarship Fund, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation, supports graduate and undergraduate nursing students in Western Pennsylvania. This fund aims to aid those demonstrating financial need, with a minimum GPA requirement of 2.5. Preference is given to undergraduate students, ensuring that future nurses are equipped to meet the healthcare demands of the community. The foundation's commitment to local stewardship enhances the scholarship's impact on the region.

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 Northeast SARE Partnership Grant Program supports innovative projects that enhance sustainable agriculture practices through collaboration between agricultural service providers and farmers. With funding up to $30,000, the program encourages research and education initiatives that address sustainability challenges in Northeast farming systems. It aims to foster partnerships that lead to better agricultural practices and community well-being, focusing on involving farmers directly in project development.

The Continuing County Adult Probation and Parole Grant, administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), aims to enhance county adult probation services by providing essential funding. This initiative supports counties in covering costs associated with adult probation supervision, ensuring adherence to established standards. Through this grant, PCCD seeks to evaluate program effectiveness and identify trends, ultimately contributing to safer communities and improved justice system outcomes.

The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) is accepting applications for the FY 2025-26 Intermediate Punishment Treatment Program. This initiative aims to support restrictive probation conditions to divert individuals from incarceration and provide essential treatment for those with substance use or mental health issues. By doing so, it seeks to reduce recidivism and enhance public safety, fulfilling PCCD's mission to improve the criminal justice system and community safety.

The Mid-Atlantic Panel on Aquatic Invasive Species Grant Program invites proposals for funding to tackle aquatic invasive species (AIS) challenges. Key priorities include research on AIS management, innovative control methods, and educational outreach. Eligible applicants range from individuals in government agencies to non-profit organizations. The program seeks to support initiatives that align with the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force standards and aims to enhance regional AIS management strategies.

The Dr. George H. and Mrs. Hettie S. Love 'Love of Learning' Scholarship Fund, established by the Bishop Nathan Baxter Chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians, supports Black students and students of color pursuing education degrees. Preference is given to those attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), particularly Cheyney University, Lincoln University, and St. Augustine's University. The scholarship aims to empower future educators from the Black community, ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed.

The Carrie and George Lyter Scholarship, established in 2002 by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, supports students from Perry County high schools entering education fields. Emphasis is placed on those pursuing science or math. Applicants must demonstrate academic achievement with a minimum GPA of 2.5, community involvement, leadership skills, and financial need. This scholarship aims to foster future educators, enhancing the community's educational landscape and empowering deserving students.

The U.S. Department of Transportation's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization is offering funding to establish the Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (SBTTAC) in Region 1. This initiative aims to provide crucial technical assistance and business development support to small businesses while ensuring compliance and reducing barriers. The program includes a 10-month base year with two potential option years, emphasizing the Department's commitment to accountability and support for small enterprises.

The TD Charitable Foundation's Capacity Building Fund empowers nonprofit organizations by providing grants aimed at enhancing their operational capabilities. Established in 2002, this initiative focuses on funding projects that promote job training, arts, and housing assistance, particularly for historically underserved communities. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, the foundation seeks to support organizations that align with its TD Ready Commitment drivers, ensuring impactful and sustainable community development.

The Historically Disadvantaged Business Assistance Program (HDBA) in Pennsylvania aims to support the growth of small, historically disadvantaged businesses. Managed by the Department of Community and Economic Development, it collaborates with various organizations to provide essential technical assistance and resources. The program includes funding for Business Assistance Service Centers and microgrant initiatives to enhance economic empowerment and increase diverse business participation in government contracts.

The Fairs Capital Improvement Grant Program in Pennsylvania offers grants up to $25,000 for certified agricultural fairs to improve their fairgrounds. Projects must include a dollar-for-dollar cash match from the fair, ensuring that funds are used for permanent improvements such as construction, renovation, and utility upgrades. This program aims to enhance the facilities that support the agricultural community, promoting sustainability and improving visitor experiences at fairs.

The Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator Program provides $2,000 in funding to support creative entrepreneurs in Pennsylvania. This initiative aims to foster business growth by offering access to consulting services and resources tailored for those starting or developing a for-profit micro business. The program prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, focusing on BIPOC entrepreneurs and those serving low-income communities, thus playing a vital role in economic recovery and innovation.

The Henry A. Jordan, M.D., Preservation Excellence Fund supports innovative projects in the Mid-Atlantic region, offering up to $5,000 to organizations committed to protecting cultural and natural resources. Established in 1996, this fund promotes collaboration among various stakeholders, facilitates policy development, and enhances public engagement in preservation issues. Eligible activities include planning and education efforts, requiring applicants to match grant funds and adhere to specific conditions to ensure effective use of resources for community sustainability.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

 What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.

• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

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.

The Main Street Matters program aims to enhance downtown areas and neighborhoods through façade grants that encourage private investment and support revitalization efforts. Eligible local governments and organizations can apply for funding to improve exterior building aesthetics, ensuring vibrant and secure communities. The program emphasizes matching funds and adherence to design guidelines to maximize impact. With a maximum grant of $100,000, it serves as a flexible tool for community and economic development.

The Philadelphia Botanical Club Grant supports members engaged in research, education, and conservation projects focused on plant life in the Philadelphia area. This includes studies on flora, algae, lichens, and fungi, with an emphasis on advancing knowledge through peer-reviewed publications and community engagement. Eligible applicants must be current members of the Club, and projects can receive funding for supplies, educational materials, and travel expenses, with a preference for smaller grants.