Best Grants for Preschools in Pennsylvania

Act 101, Section 901, Household Waste (HHW) Education Grants. Counties are eligible for 80 percent reimbursement for educational programs on household hazardous waste and pollution prevention.

PADDC Community Grants Program

Our Community Grants Program brings together people, with and without disabilities, in a local community initiative to influence social change and improve the lives of everyone in the community. We support ideas that develop generic change, providing benefits to people with disabilities in settings that are the same as those available to community-at-large. If necessary, projects also change that generic community to meet the needs of people with disabilities, affirming the status of people with disabilities as full and equal members.

The Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council (PADDC) uses the federal definition of developmental disabilities, as it appears in Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (The DD Act). This definition is based on substantial physical or mental impairment function in three or more major areas of life activity and the age of onset when the disability occurred.

Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development

The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) works every day to ensure Pennsylvania is a premier state to do business, where we adopt and innovate the next generation of breakthroughs in a diverse mix of industry clusters, where we cultivate a resilient economy, and where we invest in our people and our communities to build a stronger Pennsylvania that works for all the residents, workers, businesses, and entrepreneurs that call our Commonwealth home.

Broadband Ready Communities (BBRC) Program

The Broadband Ready Communities (BBRC) Program seeks to increase opportunities for investment in broadband infrastructure deployment within municipalities throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This program will work to reduce procedural, policy, and permitting barriers to broadband deployment at the municipal level and to encourage broadband infrastructure investment within participating communities.

A participating municipality can register for the program on a rolling basis.

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.

Rob-See-Co is an independent seed company with regional expertise, providing customers access to leading genetics and traits through the Rob-See-Co and Innotech® seed brands. Rob-See-Co also sells Masters Choice specialty silage and forage products, as well as Streamline Ag seed-driven crop inputs. Rob-See-Co works alongside its customers, building strong relationships and helping them plant the right seed for their long-term success, while keeping the process friendly, straightforward, and simple. 

Rob-See-Co Library Grant

In recognition of National Library Day, Rob-See-Co, an independent seed company located in Elkhorn, Neb. is proud to announce the continuation of its Rural Library Grant program.

Originally launched in 2023 to commemorate the company’s 10th anniversary and honor Agnes Robinson’s dedication to the rural library in Waterloo, NE, the program continues to hold special meaning. Agnes, great-grandmother of Jim Robinson, CEO of Rob-See-Co, was a passionate advocate for rural libraries. Today, the program extends support to libraries across rural communities within the company’s footprint. 

The focus areas for grant distributions from the Rob-See-Co Rural Library Grant program will assist local libraries with expanding book collections, core educational programs for adults or children, and computer or software upgrades. Examples of this would be new books, expansion of school visits or field trips, digitizing research materials, support for funding traveling exhibits and speakers.

Rob-See-Co will award ten grants to selected rural libraries across CO, IA, KS, MD, MI, MN, ND, NE, OH, OK, PA, SD, TX and WI. Funds may be used for core educational, preservation and interpretive purposes, including collection development, facility improvements, traveling exhibits, guest speakers, staff training, programming, and publications. 

Each year, Pennsylvanians generate an estimated 25,000 tons of household hazardous waste such as pesticides, old paint, drain cleaners and pool chemicals. Household hazardous wastes (HHW) are those wastes produced in households that are hazardous in nature but are not regulated as hazardous waste under federal and state laws. These wastes, when not properly managed, can create environmental and public health hazards.

HHW Collection Programs give Pennsylvanians an opportunity to safely dispose of these wastes. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) encourages HHW collection events by providing financial and technical assistance to collection programs that register with DEP. These programs provide sites for residents or small businesses to drop off their HHW. The materials collected at these sites are then reused, recycled, and, when necessary, disposed of at hazardous waste facilities.

The Clinical Trial & Research Network Kick-Start Grant (CTRN), launched by the Department of Community and Economic Development in partnership with the Office of Transformation & Opportunity aims to create a coordinated clinical research infrastructure that will reduce the cost, time, and complexity of conducting clinical trials in the Commonwealth. Critically, the CTRN is meant to facilitate a robust partnership across healthcare and life sciences stakeholders that benefits patients, healthcare institutions, and businesses alike.

The Cleveland-Cliffs Foundation, established in 1962, focuses on enhancing educational opportunities, environmental protection, and community health in the regions it operates. As a leading steel manufacturer, Cleveland-Cliffs is committed to sustainability and responsible corporate citizenship. The foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations that address key challenges in education, the environment, and community well-being, ensuring impactful investments that help communities thrive across North America.

The Dr. & Mrs. Arthur William Phillips Charitable Trust Grant, administered by Bridge Builders Community Foundations, supports initiatives in education, healthcare, community development, and the arts. While it serves a broad area, priority is given to organizations in Northwestern Pennsylvania. The Trust aims to address needs in health, education, youth, and community projects, ensuring that local organizations can thrive and contribute positively to their communities.

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.

Pennsylvania 501(c)(3) nonprofits improving education, health, safety, or services for children and families can access funding through Encova Foundation of West Virginia for community-focused programs. U.S.-based organizations with verifiable tax IDs, especially those engaging Encova associates as volunteers or board members, may be strong candidates, and preschool-related initiatives may be eligible if they fit these priorities.

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.

Overview

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.

The Behavioral Traffic Safety Unit is not permitted to fund equipment only grant requests. All funded projects must include programmatic or behavioral safety components aligned with evidence based countermeasures.

PennDOT Behavioral Highway Safety Grants: Distracted Driving Observational Survey

Informs countermeasure strategies for distracted driving safety by providing statewide data related to cell phone use while driving. Analysis of the collected data will be shared with local and statewide partners to inform existing messaging, programming, and enforcement.

The Partnerships for Regional Economic Performance (PREP) aims to enhance regional collaboration in economic development, ensuring efficient service delivery to businesses. With $7.38 million available for FY2019-20, PREP supports consortia of economic development service providers to create a coordinated and responsive system. This initiative aligns with Pennsylvania's Ten-Year Strategic Plan, promoting business growth and recovery in communities affected by unemployment. The program is crucial for fostering partnerships that drive economic prosperity across the state.

The DCED Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) provides funding and technical assistance to eligible municipalities in Pennsylvania for various community development activities. Key uses include housing rehabilitation, public services, and infrastructure improvements. The grant has two application deadlines: October 31, 2025, for entitlement submissions and February 6, 2026, for competitive applications. The competitive program requires a minimum request of $100,000, with no ceiling limit, and mandates that 70% of funds benefit low- and moderate-income persons.

The Sprague Charitable Contribution Program focuses on giving back to communities through charitable donations. With awards ranging from $250 to $10,000, priority is given to organizations that support children and environmental stewardship, particularly within Sprague's operational areas. The program seeks impactful contributions that can achieve significant results, reflecting Sprague's commitment to social responsibility and community improvement.

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 Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency is inviting applications for funding under the Endowment Act, aimed at distributing $48 million in NCAA penalties to support programs preventing and assisting victims of child sexual abuse. This funding specifically targets Multidisciplinary Investigative Teams (MDITs) to establish Children's Advocacy Centers in counties lacking such resources, thereby enhancing the support for victims and promoting community safety.

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 Ear, Nose, and Throat Foundation of Central Pennsylvania is a nonprofit organization committed to advancing patient care, research, education, and innovation in the field of otolaryngology. Grants are provided to support initiatives aligned with the Foundation’s mission, particularly within the areas of ENT health, medical research, technology, education, global health, and community outreach.

Grants may be issued directly to healthcare physicians and allied health care professionals, medical institutions, clinics, or academic departments at the discretion of their leadership. Any research grants provided through such offices may be subject to specific terms and conditions, including limitations on the use of funds (e.g., restrictions on covering indirect costs).

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.

Child Passenger Safety Educational Initiatives

Supplements efforts provided by the existing statewide child passenger safety project organized by the PA Traffic Injury Prevention Project (PA TIPP) by providing additional trainings for CPS technicians across the state, broaden outreach efforts, and distribute car seats to underserved communities.

The NYSS Student Support program, offered by the American Physical Society, provides financial assistance to students attending physics symposia. Grants of approximately $150 help cover travel and accommodation expenses, encouraging attendance at both sessions and the symposium banquet. Applications are open to students from New York and nearby states, with a focus on fostering educational outreach and engagement in physics. Each application must be signed by the student and their Department Chair, ensuring a streamlined process.

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.Distracted Driving Outreach provides education and outreach to change dangerous driving behaviors across PA, especially among teen drivers.

The Keystone Grants for Public Library Facilities, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education's Office of Commonwealth Libraries, support public libraries in planning, acquiring, constructing, or rehabilitating their facilities. Grants cover up to 50% of eligible costs for projects like ADA upgrades and energy-efficient renovations. Matching funds are required, and grants are awarded competitively based on established criteria. This program aims to enhance library services and resources for Pennsylvania residents.

The Les Mehrhoff Botanical Research Award, established by the New England Botanical Society, supports innovative botanical research that enhances our understanding of New England's flora. Open to applicants without membership, it prioritizes projects lacking traditional funding sources. Eligible expenses include fieldwork, lab supplies, and moderate stipends. This award encourages researchers to explore unconventional inquiries and fosters a deeper appreciation for the diverse plant life in northeastern North America.

The Certified Local Government (CLG) Scholarships program supports Pennsylvania's Certified Local Governments by providing funding for training and education of preservation decision-makers. Scholarships, up to $2,000 for individuals and $5,000 for community-hosted programs, can cover registration, travel, and educational materials. This program ensures that local governments have the necessary resources for effective preservation practices, fostering community engagement and education in historical preservation efforts.

The Nora Roberts Foundation, established in 2001 by best-selling author Nora Roberts, prioritizes literacy as a fundamental human right. The foundation supports organizations dedicated to literacy, the arts, children, social justice, and environmental initiatives. Grants typically average $5,000, with recommendations for first-time applicants to request between $3,000 and $5,000. Preference is given to local groups in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington DC, particularly those with 501(c)(3) status.