Best Grants for the Arts in Pennsylvania

The Elsie H. Hillman Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in southwestern Pennsylvania by focusing on community empowerment and support for underrepresented groups. Established in 2006, the Foundation promotes equity and civic engagement among women, minorities, and LGBTQ+ residents. It provides funding for programs that foster dialogue, health initiatives, and cultural revitalization, while prioritizing organizations that align with its mission and operate within the Pittsburgh region.

The Dylan Todd Simonds Foundation Grant is dedicated to fostering environmental resilience and social justice, particularly in the Bay Area and Pittsburgh. It seeks innovative projects that enhance sustainable economies and address climate change through inclusive solutions. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations focused on these geographical areas. The Foundation prioritizes impactful initiatives but does not fund conference support, endowments, or organizations outside the U.S. For more details, please refer to the Foundation's FAQs.

The Luce/ACLS Dissertation Fellowships in American Art support graduate students conducting research on the history of art and visual culture in the U.S., including Native American art. These fellowships aim to enhance diversity in academia by welcoming applications from PhD candidates at all degree-granting institutions in the U.S. The program offers a stipend of $38,000 plus a travel and research allowance, with a total award of $42,000 for a nine to twelve-month period between July 2025 and May 2027.

The Lewis A. and Donna M. Patterson Charitable Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in western Pennsylvania by supporting arts, cultural enrichment, higher education, care for the poor, and health care research. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and focus on charitable purposes. The foundation prioritizes projects that benefit the local community, particularly in counties such as Allegheny, Westmoreland, and Greene, providing vital resources to foster community growth and development.

The Crawford Impact Initiative Grants support non-profit organizations in Crawford County, providing a redesigned grant program that offers impactful funding opportunities. Organizations can apply for funding from both restricted and unrestricted funds, with a single application. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofits, governmental bodies, municipalities, and schools. The initiative emphasizes preventive and impactful projects addressing community needs, with a focus on collaboration and measurable outcomes.

The Gertrude L. Hirsch Charitable Trust, founded in New Jersey, aims to support 501(c)(3) organizations for charitable and educational purposes. It focuses on various program areas including arts, education, environment, health, and human services. Although there are no geographic restrictions, preference is often given to organizations based in New Jersey. Additionally, funds awarded cannot be used outside the United States, ensuring that contributions remain within the country to benefit local communities.

The James B. Linsmayer Foundation Grant supports programs in arts, culture, education, health, and human services primarily within the Twin Cities of Minnesota. Established in memory of James B. Linsmayer, the foundation aims to be a strategic partner in these vital areas. Eligible grantees include public charities recognized under IRC guidelines, with no geographic limitations but a preference for local organizations. While start-ups may be considered, funding for organizational expenses is not permitted.

The Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation Grant supports organizations dedicated to preserving American exceptionalism through a commitment to individual liberty, free markets, and civic responsibility. It prioritizes proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations that promote informed citizenship and strong communities. With ongoing acceptance of Letters of Inquiry, the Foundation seeks to empower initiatives that align with its principles of limited government and the rule of law, fostering a rich community culture.

The Upper Bucks Community Foundation Fund of LVCF, managed by the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations in the Upper Bucks area, including Palisades, Pennridge, and Quakertown School Districts. It primarily funds projects in visual arts, performing arts, industrial arts, agricultural education, and conservation of rural life. This fund includes the Richard E. Gasser Fund and the Erwin J. and Gertrude K. Neusch Fund, which focus on enhancing community engagement and educational initiatives.

The EQT Foundation Grant Program supports nonprofits with a focus on community enrichment, education, and environmental preservation in areas aligned with EQT Corporation's business operations. Since 2003, it has awarded over $74 million, emphasizing impactful, evidence-based proposals that foster safe and sustainable communities. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and demonstrate effective resource management. The foundation prioritizes projects that promote STEM education, community engagement, and conservation efforts to enhance quality of life in the regions it serves.

The Lubrizol Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations that align with community investment priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on quality education, health, and sustainable communities. Established in 1952, the foundation emphasizes support for initiatives in Cleveland, Ohio, and Houston, Texas. Grant applications are evaluated based on alignment with Lubrizol's investment pillars, with a commitment to fostering social impact and community well-being through financial support.

The Amcor Community Support Grants Program, administered by the Amcor Cares Foundation, provides funding for projects that benefit local communities. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations and accredited educational institutions that serve Amcor Flexibles North America facility communities. Focus areas include fighting hunger, supporting disaster relief, expanding STEM education, and enhancing health and wellness. Applications are reviewed quarterly, and grant amounts typically exceed $1,000.

The Central Pennsylvania Community Foundation offers unrestricted funds to support various projects aimed at enhancing the community's welfare. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities that serve Blair County and meet specific criteria, such as promoting education, arts, or health services. This grant process encourages impactful proposals, ensuring that resources are allocated to initiatives that genuinely benefit the region. Applications are accepted annually, with a focus on sustainable community development.

The Kosciuszko Foundation offers Tuition Scholarships for American students of Polish descent pursuing graduate studies in the U.S. Scholarships can provide up to $12,000 for full-time studies, including master's and Ph.D. programs. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents with Polish heritage and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This program aims to foster educational exchanges and cultural understanding between the U.S. and Poland, supporting various fields of study.

The Exelon Community Grants Program aims to support nonprofit organizations and students in local communities through funding initiatives that enhance education, environmental quality, local employment, and access to arts and culture. By prioritizing sustainable improvements and measurable outcomes, Exelon fosters community resilience and empowerment, ensuring that grants are awarded to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations that do not discriminate. This initiative encourages collaboration and strengthens community ties through impactful contributions.

McCormick & Company, Inc. actively supports charitable contributions through its Charitable Donations Committee (CDC), which prioritizes donations to non-profit organizations that enhance education, health, environment, and culture. The CDC focuses on organizations that benefit communities where McCormick employees live and work, ensuring a positive impact. Eligible groups must be tax-exempt and demonstrate a commitment to non-discrimination. However, donations are not made to individuals, political organizations, or entities that conflict with corporate values.

The Richard S. Reynolds Foundation, established in 1955 in Richmond, Virginia, supports diverse community initiatives in education, healthcare, the arts, and the environment. With over $71 million granted to date, it aims to strengthen communities and foster future generations. The foundation prioritizes requests from IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations while typically avoiding contributions to annual operational costs. Its commitment to impactful projects ensures a lasting positive influence both locally and globally.

The Charles & Betty Degenstein Foundation, established in 1977, aims to enhance lives through grants supporting various sectors such as education, health care, and conservation. The Foundation focuses on projects that positively impact Snyder, Union, and Northumberland Counties, encouraging community support and collaboration. Grant applications are open to 501(c)(3) organizations, guided by a Trust Board, but typically do not cover all project costs, especially for operating budgets or political activities.

The James C. Stewart Charitable Foundation Grant supports various charitable causes primarily in Tucson, Arizona, and Southern California. Founded by James Stewart, who was dedicated to uplifting the community and promoting the arts, the foundation provides an average grant of $10,000, awarding around five grants annually. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt. The foundation emphasizes arts, education, environment, health, human services, and public benefit, continuing Stewart's legacy of generosity.

The VIA Art Fund provides Artistic Production Grants to support innovative artistic commissions for public spaces. These grants, ranging from $25,000 to $100,000, are awarded twice a year to artists and organizations that exemplify artistic excellence and public engagement. Projects must have a confirmed exhibition venue, ensuring artworks reach diverse audiences and foster meaningful community experiences beyond traditional gallery settings.

The Pabst Steinmetz Foundation Grant supports innovative projects at the intersection of arts, education, and wellness. It aims to empower organizations that address critical community issues and foster sustainable models for change, particularly in Florida. The foundation encourages collaboration and seeks initiatives that create a ripple effect, enhancing community capacity and promoting impactful solutions. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) entities in the U.S. focusing on community betterment through creative approaches.

Nikon USA is dedicated to supporting innovative initiatives that align with its marketing strategies and community impact. They seek sponsorship proposals that demonstrate unique ideas, enhancing brand engagement and consumer reach. However, applicants must be over 18 and submit requests at least six months prior to their program. Nikon prioritizes USA-based entities and cannot support individual projects or certain causes. For more details, please submit your request through their designated online form.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The Harold D. Jones Trust for Charities provides funding for projects that support year-round programming, offer direct services, and demonstrate measurable impact in Crawford County, PA. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and at least three years of operation. The trust prioritizes initiatives that collaborate with others, have diversified income streams, and address community needs without duplicating existing services. Applications require documented outcomes from prior projects.

The J. Bowman Proper Charitable Trust Grant supports impactful projects in Forest County that demonstrate a clear social mission and measurable outcomes. Eligible organizations must be public charities with at least three years of operation, focusing on addressing community needs and benefiting underserved populations. The trust prioritizes collaborations and sustainable initiatives, while avoiding direct support for operating costs, pilot programs, and for-profit entities.

The Dennis Schuman Charitable Foundation Grant supports qualified Jewish organizations and charities in the United States, focusing on arts, education, health, human services, public benefit, and religion. Established by Dennis Schuman, the foundation continues his philanthropic legacy, providing funding exclusively for charitable, religious, scientific, literary, or educational purposes. Organizations must be exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code to qualify for funding.

The Univest Local Philanthropic Giving Program has a rich history of supporting local communities for over 150 years. With a focus on youth education, health services, economic development, and arts, Univest empowers registered nonprofits in Greater Philadelphia and beyond. Their commitment is evident through employee volunteerism and financial contributions, ensuring stronger community ties. This program primarily supports Univest customers, reinforcing the belief that a strong business is rooted in a thriving community.