Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Pennsylvania

The Leon Lowengard Scholarship, established by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, honors the late Leon Lowengard and supports students from Harrisburg City Public Schools and nearby districts, especially those of Jewish faith. With over 190 scholarships available, TFEC is the largest scholarship provider in South Central Pennsylvania, awarding more than $1.7 million annually to local students. Recipients may reapply, ensuring continued support for their educational journeys.

The Education & Leadership Impact Grants by BLBB Charitable support nonprofit organizations in the Greater Philadelphia area, focusing on college access, economic self-sufficiency, K-12 educational opportunities, and environmental education. Grants over $15,000 are available for multi-year projects aimed at enhancing the lives of disadvantaged youth. Eligible nonprofits must have filed at least two consecutive Form 990s and cannot be public or charter schools. Contact the foundation for guidance before submitting a request.

The Lozier Foundation

The Lozier Foundation is a private family foundation based in Omaha, Nebraska, funded by Allan and Dianne Lozier. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations working to expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life for people and families who have historically had less access to resources.

The Foundation’s grantmaking is grounded in a long-term commitment to Omaha and the surrounding region. We are especially interested in work that helps level the playing field, supports people during important moments of need or transition, and gives individuals and families greater ability to make choices about their own lives and futures.

The Foundation’s support has historically focused on established nonprofit organizations working in areas such as education, human services, youth development, health, family stability, and community well-being. While those areas describe much of our grantmaking, they are not intended to serve as fixed categories or a comprehensive list.

The Foundation is selective in its grantmaking. We generally support organizations with a meaningful operating history, capable leadership, sound governance, financial discipline, and a demonstrated ability to serve the community effectively. The Foundation does not typically support early-stage organizations, small projects or organizations with limited reach, or requests that fall outside our geographic and charitable priorities.

The Foundation also considers whether a request reflects a clear understanding of the existing community landscape. We are generally skeptical of efforts that duplicate services already being provided effectively by other organizations, particularly when collaboration, coordination, or partnership would better serve the community. Organizations seeking support should be prepared to explain how their work fits within the broader field, who they collaborate with, and why the proposed work is needed.

Grants

Grantseekers wishing to apply to the Lozier Foundation should begin by reviewing the Mission, Values, Funding Priorities and Funding Eligibility Statements.

The Lozier Foundation grant applications include: Capital Application; Education Application; General Application; and Program Application.

Organizations may receive general operating, program, and capital grants. While The Lozier Foundation prefers to provide ongoing general operating support, organizations can receive a program and/or capital grant in the same calendar year.

Lozier Foundation Program Application

Funding Priorities

• Education
• Women & Girls
• North Omaha Initiatives
• Human Services

The Program Application follows the foundation guidelines provided here.

The Lozier Foundation

The Lozier Foundation is a private family foundation based in Omaha, Nebraska, funded by Allan and Dianne Lozier. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations working to expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life for people and families who have historically had less access to resources.

The Foundation’s grantmaking is grounded in a long-term commitment to Omaha and the surrounding region. We are especially interested in work that helps level the playing field, supports people during important moments of need or transition, and gives individuals and families greater ability to make choices about their own lives and futures.

The Foundation’s support has historically focused on established nonprofit organizations working in areas such as education, human services, youth development, health, family stability, and community well-being. While those areas describe much of our grantmaking, they are not intended to serve as fixed categories or a comprehensive list.

The Foundation is selective in its grantmaking. We generally support organizations with a meaningful operating history, capable leadership, sound governance, financial discipline, and a demonstrated ability to serve the community effectively. The Foundation does not typically support early-stage organizations, small projects or organizations with limited reach, or requests that fall outside our geographic and charitable priorities.

The Foundation also considers whether a request reflects a clear understanding of the existing community landscape. We are generally skeptical of efforts that duplicate services already being provided effectively by other organizations, particularly when collaboration, coordination, or partnership would better serve the community. Organizations seeking support should be prepared to explain how their work fits within the broader field, who they collaborate with, and why the proposed work is needed.

Grants

Grantseekers wishing to apply to the Lozier Foundation should begin by reviewing the Mission, Values, Funding Priorities and Funding Eligibility Statements.

The Lozier Foundation grant applications include: Capital Application; Education Application; General Application; and Program Application.

Organizations may receive general operating, program, and capital grants. While The Lozier Foundation prefers to provide ongoing general operating support, organizations can receive a program and/or capital grant in the same calendar year.

Lozier Foundation General Application

Funding Priorities

• Education
• Women & Girls
• North Omaha Initiatives
• Human Services

The General Application follows the foundation guidelines provided here.

The Leon I. Lock and Barbara R. Lock Scholarship, offered by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, supports high school graduates from specific Pennsylvania counties attending Harrisburg Area Community College for health careers. This scholarship is renewable for three consecutive years, aiming to assist students with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrated financial need. With over a century of philanthropic history, TFEC continues to empower local students through its extensive scholarship programs.

The Kenneth G. Robinson, APR Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, supports undergraduate students in Pennsylvania pursuing communications or public relations degrees. This one-time scholarship is aimed at civic-minded individuals with financial need, a minimum GPA of 2.75, and a demonstrated passion for volunteerism. With over 190 scholarship opportunities available, TFEC continues to impact local students and communities positively.

The PA Specialty Crop Grant Program, managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, provides funding to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. This initiative supports various projects that aim to improve the marketability and sustainability of these crops. Eligible applicants can access resources and guidelines through the USDA SCBGP website, which outlines both eligible specialty crops and ineligible commodities. This program is crucial for fostering agricultural innovation and economic growth within the specialty crop sector.

The Lozier Foundation

Formed in 1986, The Lozier Foundation is a family foundation funded by Allan and Dianne Lozier. The foundation’s focus is education, social services and issues involving women and children with an emphasis on the inner city and underrepresented populations.

Our Mission: The Lozier Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life for the underrepresented communities in the Omaha/Metro area.

Grants

Funding Priorities

• Education
• Women & Girls
• North Omaha Initiatives
• Human Services

Grantseekers wishing to apply to the Lozier Foundation should begin by reviewing the Mission, Values, Funding Priorities and Funding Eligibility Statements.

The Lozier Foundation grant applications include: Capital Application; Education Application; General Application; and Program Application.

Organizations may receive general operating, program, and capital grants. While The Lozier Foundation prefers to provide ongoing general operating support, organizations can receive a program and/or capital grant in the same calendar year.

Lozier Foundation Education Application

The Education Application follows the foundation guidelines provided here.

The JEM Group Diversity in Construction Scholarship Fund, established by a woman-owned firm in Central Pennsylvania, aims to encourage young women and minority students to pursue careers in construction. With over 190 scholarships available, the fund supports students from Dauphin, Cumberland, or Perry County, emphasizing financial need and a strong academic record. Recipients can reapply for up to three consecutive years, ensuring ongoing support for their educational journeys in construction-related fields.

The Medical Genetics Research Training Grant at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia aims to train future leaders in medical genetics. This program focuses on clinicians with a strong research interest in human genetics, enhancing their ability to apply modern research techniques to understand genetic conditions. With five trainee slots available annually, the grant supports candidates holding an MD, PhD, or MD/PhD, fostering academic careers in medical innovation for children's health.

The Pediatric Hospital Epidemiology and Outcomes Research Training (PHEOT) Program at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia provides a two-year research fellowship for physicians. It equips them with essential skills in hospital epidemiology and outcomes research through a combination of formal coursework and mentored projects. Trainees engage in comparative effectiveness research and quality measurement, benefitting from the hospital's extensive resources and mentorship. This program aims to enhance the healthcare outcomes for hospitalized children while ensuring patient safety and cost management.

The Keystone Historic Preservation Planning Grants provide funding for nonprofit organizations and local governments in Pennsylvania to support projects aimed at preserving and promoting historic resources. This program focuses on planning and development for publicly accessible sites eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, encouraging applicants to engage in cultural resource surveys, national register nominations, and community planning. It aims to enhance public access to historic sites while revitalizing local communities.

The Cultural and Historical Support Grant Program, managed by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, provides operational funding to support Pennsylvania museums and county historical societies. Grants range from $2,500 to $65,000, aimed at enhancing the museum community and allowing institutions to address their unique operational needs. Eligible applicants must have a substantial operating budget and professional staff. This funding promotes accessibility and the preservation of Pennsylvania's rich cultural heritage.

The Mary Gourlay Charitable Trust Grant, established in 2017, aims to support institutions that assist the blind in Pennsylvania, particularly in Philadelphia. The trust honors Mary Gourlay and is dedicated to funding projects in arts, education, health, and human services. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt, while grants are strictly for supporting blind persons. Notably, salaries are not covered by this funding, ensuring resources directly benefit the intended beneficiaries.

The Garden Club of America Award in Coastal Wetlands Studies supports graduate students engaged in coastal wetlands research. Established through the Rockefeller Environmental Education Fund, this scholarship promotes conservation by funding field work in tidal and nontidal wetlands across coastal states, including the Great Lakes. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. graduate program and can propose their own wetlands study. The award aims to foster environmental education and scientific inquiry in this vital ecosystem.

HOME-American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP)

HOME-ARP provides funding to assist individuals or households who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or other vulnerable populations by providing rental housing, supportive services and non-congregate shelter, to reduce homelessness and increase housing stability.

Funding

• The minimum funding request for Non-Congregate Shelter projects is $50,000.
• Up to 5% may be requested for administrative costs.

Uses

HOME-ARP funds may be used to acquire, rehabilitate, or construct NCS units to serve individuals and families Qualifying Populations.

Restricted Use Period: HOME-ARP NCS projects must comply with HOME-ARP requirements during the restricted use period established in the HOME-ARP Notice.

• New Construction: 15 years
• Rehabilitation: 10 years
• Acquisition Only: 10 years

The Inserra Scholarships, provided by the UNICO Foundation, aim to support students of Italian descent pursuing higher education. Two scholarships of $2,500 each are awarded annually to eligible candidates who are U.S. citizens attending accredited colleges or universities full-time. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and continue their studies in the 2026-2027 academic year. This initiative reflects UNICO's commitment to empowering the Italian American community through education.

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Land Conservation and Access

RMEF conserves critical big game habitat and migration corridors, while expanding and improving public access, including through land acquisitions and voluntary conservation agreements. RMEF's

2026 priorities include:

• Conserving migratory corridors and connecting landscapes through land conservation efforts
• Creating new or improved public access through access easements and agreements and state-run access programs

The PA Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) empowers agricultural producers and forestland owners to enhance their conservation practices. By improving soil, water, and wildlife habitats, participants can boost their farming efficiency and earn payments based on conservation performance. CSP offers tailored plans to meet specific land management goals, whether it's increasing crop yields or managing forests sustainably. With year-round applications, this program supports those looking to transition to organic practices or improve their existing conservation systems.

Overview

Program provides tax credits to taxpayers who increase their annual taxable payroll by $1,000,000 through the creation of new full-time jobs.

The Manufacturing Tax Credit Program (“Program”) was established by Act 84 of July 13, 2016 (the “Act”) for the purpose of providing tax credits to taxpayers who increase their annual taxable payroll by $1,000,000 through the creation of new full-time jobs (“Manufacturing Tax Credit”). The taxpayer must agree to retain the new jobs and the increase in payroll for at least five years from the start date. The Program is administered by the Department of Community and Economic Development (the “Department”).

Uses

Tax credit awards shall be equal to 5% of the taxpayers increase in annual taxable payroll, if increased by at least $1,000,000 above a pre-determined base year amount.

Funding

The commonwealth shall issue no more than $4,000,000 in tax credits per fiscal year.

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 University Center at Harrisburg Scholarship Fund, managed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, supports deserving students from Cumberland, Dauphin, Perry, Lebanon, or York counties. With a history of over 100 years, TFEC provides more than 190 scholarship opportunities, awarding over $1.7 million to local students. The fund encourages applications from non-traditional students and requires a minimum GPA of 2.0, making higher education accessible to the community.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5418 - Optimizing PFAS Treatment Systems for Multi-contaminant Removal and Operational Benefits

Project Objectives

The Santander Bank Charitable Giving Program is committed to enriching communities through $100 million in charitable giving. It focuses on community development, emphasizing affordable housing, small business support, and financial education. Eligible applicants must be recognized as public charities by the IRS and demonstrate the capacity to serve community needs. The program aims to foster partnerships to uplift low- and moderate-income communities across its operational footprint, ensuring a lasting impact through philanthropic efforts.

The Caitlin Hornung Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, provides financial support for students pursuing degrees in social work, counseling, psychology, behavior science, or human services. This one-time award particularly favors students facing chronic or life-threatening conditions. The fund reflects over a century of community support, with TFEC being the largest scholarship provider in South Central Pennsylvania, awarding over $1.7 million to local students annually.

The Abby Hornung Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, commemorates Abby Hornung's dedication to caring for others. It supports students pursuing degrees in social work or related mental health fields. Applicants must graduate from specific counties, maintain a GPA of 2.5, and submit letters of recommendation and an essay. This one-time award emphasizes the importance of community support in mental health professions, encouraging future professionals to foster compassion and inclusivity.

The Samuel L. Abrams Foundation, established in 1966, supports deserving graduates and faculty of the Harrisburg School District in their pursuit of higher education. With over $1.7 million awarded in scholarships, it stands as the largest scholarship provider in South Central Pennsylvania. Eligible applicants include graduates from various local high schools with plans for post-secondary education and demonstrable financial need. Renewability is permitted, encouraging ongoing educational growth among recipients.