Best Job Creation Grants in Pennsylvania

Nonprofits, community-based organizations, tribes, schools, and public entities in Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic can seek funding to build equitable community forestry and green jobs programs, with awards up to US $200,000. Focused on workforce development, the Chesapeake Bay Trust initiative supports training, apprenticeships, and career pathways in forestry for residents of disadvantaged communities.

Nonprofit organizations building pathways out of poverty through job creation, workforce preparation, or related services in Pennsylvania can access multi-year, capacity-building support, including US $125,000 - US $175,000 annually in unrestricted funding. Arbor Brothers partners with second-stage 501(c)(3) organizations to strengthen strategy, financial management, data analysis, and stakeholder management across the lower 48 states.

Pennsylvania workforce and training organizations focused on manufacturing job readiness and job creation in Pennsylvania can use this grant for short-term training and entry-level placement projects. The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development funds professional services, internships, equipment, program development, marketing, travel, and staffing, with awards up to US $200,000.

Nonprofit charitable organizations in Pennsylvania working on job creation, workforce readiness, and community development can apply for KeyBank Foundation grants of US $10,000 - US $25,000. Grants support affordable housing, small business growth, financial literacy, education, and employment services that build safe, inclusive communities and help residents achieve economic self-sufficiency.

Employers creating new full-time jobs in Pennsylvania can access funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Manufacturing Tax Credit. Eligible taxpayers that increase annual taxable payroll by at least $1,000,000 may receive a tax credit equal to 5% of that increase, with a commitment to retain the jobs and payroll for five years.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Pennsylvania focused on workforce and economic development, including job creation and related programs, can apply for Greenspring Advisors’ Greenspring Grant Program; awards US $5,000 - US $20,000 for general operations or specific initiatives. Programs serving youth, people in recovery, or underserved communities receive special consideration.

With a mission to strengthen community and economic vitality, Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development provides Pennsylvania job creation projects with support for business development, workforce readiness, and critical infrastructure. Eligible not-for-profit entities and local governments may fund technical assistance, industrial site development, roads, broadband, water and sewer improvements, tourism, and business incubator facilities in Appalachian communities.

Pennsylvania employers seeking funds for incumbent worker skill-building and job advancement training in Pennsylvania can apply for up to US $2,000 per employee through the Workforce and Economic Development Network of Pennsylvania (WEDnetPA) program. The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development supports job creation and workforce development by funding training for new and existing employees statewide.

Pennsylvania 501(c)(3) nonprofits and qualified public entities seeking capacity-building support for job creation or related community services can apply for US $25,000 - US $150,000 to strengthen tactics, talent, and tools. TD Charitable Foundation prioritizes smaller organizations serving low- to moderate-income and historically underserved communities within TD Bank metro market areas.

Nonprofit organizations and fiscally sponsored groups advancing environmental and climate justice for BIPOC communities in Pennsylvania may be eligible for funding supporting grassroots organizing, policy advocacy, and green jobs. Scherman Foundation supports work on climate resilience, renewable energy, equitable mass transit, and related economic transformation that builds community power and movement infrastructure.

Pennsylvania organizations pursuing economic development, community improvement, or public interest projects in Fayette County can use this program to support job creation and related initiatives. The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Share Account – Fayette County may benefit groups working on employment, recreation, civic engagement, or arts and culture projects that strengthen local communities.

City governments working on municipal workforce and job creation initiatives in Pennsylvania can apply for support through the Municipal Workforce Learning Lab. Focused on workforce preparation and public-sector job readiness, Georgia Municipal Association and partners offer an 8‑month action planning process with coaching and technical assistance to strengthen local government talent pipelines.

Nonprofit institutions across the U.S., including Pennsylvania, can seek USDA NIFA funding to establish and operate rural cooperative development centers that provide technical assistance to cooperatives and mutually owned businesses. Grants up to US $1,000,000 support rural economic development, value-added processing, and job creation through starting, expanding, or improving rural enterprises.

Local governments, authorities, operating agencies, and nonprofit or for-profit organizations in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania can apply for Allegheny County’s Community Development Block Grant; awards more than US $50,000 for community development projects. Funding can support job creation efforts through business development, workforce development, commercial district stabilization, infrastructure, housing, ADA improvements, and related initiatives benefiting low- and moderate-income residents.

AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP Opportunity

About RSVP

Established in 1971 and now one of the largest senior volunteer programs in the nation, AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP engages people ages 55 and older in a diverse range of volunteer activities. AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP volunteers tutor children, help prepare simple taxes, assist victims of natural disasters, provide nutrition/food support, facilitate opioid and substance abuse education workshops, and serve in their communities in many other ways. AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP volunteers choose how, where, and how often they want to serve, with commitments ranging from a few hours to a maximum of 40 hours per week. While serving, AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP volunteers improve their own lives by staying active and civically engaged. 

Funding Priorities

AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP programming is designed to meet community needs. Applicants may propose activities intended to address community needs by thoroughly explaining the unmet need and activities to be completed by volunteers to address that need. In addition, AmeriCorps is interested in programming that addresses agency priorities. AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP priorities for this funding opportunity are:

• Supporting Older Adults and Caregivers: Provide respite, support groups, system navigation, care coordination, and resources for older adults, including custodial grandparents, and caregivers.
• Helping Older Adults Re-enter the Workforce: Offer job readiness, mentoring, training, and remove barriers to employment for older adults (volunteers provide services, not seek jobs).
• Building Strong Families: Support parents in helping children succeed, mentor parents, connect families to resources, and strengthen community partnerships.
• Preventing and Mitigating Fraud and Scams: Use digital navigators and other strategies to protect older adults from financial fraud and exploitation, including emerging AI-driven scams.
• Reducing Homelessness: Develop or renovate affordable housing, assist people experiencing homelessness in finding and maintaining permanent housing, and address housing needs for vulnerable populations.
• Supporting Behavioral Health Initiatives: Improve mental health, reduce isolation, prevent substance use, provide harm reduction tools (Naloxone, fentanyl test strips), peer support, and recovery services.

Award Funding Requirements

Applicants must construct the budget in the following manner. The federal share of the budget must not exceed $75,000 plus up to $350 for every unduplicated volunteer, whether or not they serve in an outcome-based work plan. 

The Community Development Block Grant Program for Indian Tribes and Alaska Native Villages aims to foster viable communities by providing funding for decent housing, suitable living environments, and economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income individuals. Notably, the program also includes Imminent Threat Grants to address urgent public health or safety issues. These competitive grants are essential for enhancing community welfare and addressing immediate challenges faced by tribal residents.

The MPPEP Phase 3 program aims to enhance processing capabilities for invasive, wild-caught catfish, benefiting both processors and fishers. By increasing processing capacity and volume, the initiative seeks to create fair wages and stable job opportunities, fostering economic growth in rural areas. This grant will support innovative strategies that ensure sustainable practices and elevate incomes within the community, thus contributing to the overall development of the meat and poultry sector.

Pennsylvania job creation organizations can access funding through the H Hovnanian Family Foundation for projects in education, entrepreneurship, youth leadership, community development, public health, and emergency response. U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits with at least one year of outcomes may receive up to US $10,000, with preference for work substantially implemented in New Jersey’s Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

Organizations and leaders working on job creation, economic mobility, and related equity issues in Pennsylvania and across the U.S. can apply for the Big Bets Fellowship, a five‑month leadership development program. Rockefeller Foundation provides a US $5,000 stipend and intensive support to advance bold, systemic solutions for vulnerable workers and communities.

Dental students, residents, and early-career dentists working to expand oral health education, employment opportunities, and public oral health may be eligible for leadership development funding in Pennsylvania. With a mission to recognize promising oral health leaders, ADA Foundation provides access to a $5,000 Dr. David Whiston Leadership Award for approved leadership training expenses.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on improving economic mobility and social progress through partnerships with nonprofits. It prioritizes basic needs, income creation, stable housing, and community empowerment. By supporting vulnerable populations, the foundation aims to enable individuals to achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities. The foundation emphasizes sustainable progress, ensuring that all community members have access to essential resources and opportunities for growth.

The Just Born Corporate Giving Grant Program aims to enhance the well-being of children and families in need by supporting initiatives in arts, education, health, and community development. The program focuses on opportunities that benefit underserved populations, emphasizing diverse leadership and community engagement. Grants prioritize projects that promote cultural enrichment, educational access, and essential health services, ultimately fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment for all. Through strategic partnerships, Just Born Quality Confections is committed to making a meaningful impact in its local communities.

The ECF Shaping Tomorrow Grants aim to empower nonprofits in Erie County by funding projects that promote inclusivity and equitable impact. Grants range from $50,000 to $250,000 for initiatives lasting 12-18 months, focusing on measurable community change in health, education, and economic growth. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt, demonstrate community engagement, and align with ECF priorities. This program seeks to enhance organizational capacity and support collaborations that drive sustainable development.

The Neighborhood Builders Program, supported by Bank of America, empowers 501(c)(3) nonprofits through a two-year leadership development initiative. Participants receive funding, training, and networking opportunities to enhance their impact in communities. Since its inception, the program has invested over $346 million, training more than 4,000 leaders. The initiative focuses on advancing social mobility and economic opportunities, ensuring affordable housing, and fostering resilient communities. This program is vital for nonprofits aiming to strengthen their leadership and community engagement.

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Fund for Community Good supports projects that promote equity and justice across various sectors, including education, health, and economic prosperity. This unrestricted fund invites partnerships with 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, primarily focusing on Kent County, Michigan. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusive opportunities, ensuring all community members can thrive. Eligible applicants can submit pre-applications year-round for potential funding.

The Mellon Foundation's Economic Development Grant Program aims to address economic disparities in Pittsburgh and southwestern Pennsylvania by enhancing workforce skills and creating job opportunities. The program focuses on talent development, workforce systems, and community building, advocating for innovative education and training that aligns with future job markets. It seeks proposals that promote 21st-century skills, foster entrepreneurship, and support underrepresented groups, ultimately driving economic independence and community vitality.

The WCCF Capacity-Building Grant Cycle II provides funding from $5,000 to $50,000 for projects enhancing operational, programmatic, and organizational maturity of nonprofit organizations in Washington County. Eligible projects include arts, community development, education, health, and environmental initiatives. Nonprofits must apply for specific capacity-building projects and cannot combine requests. Previous grant funds must be fully utilized before applying for new grants, ensuring effective use of resources to strengthen community services.