Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Pennsylvania

Scranton Area Community Foundation

For over 70 years, the Scranton Area Community Foundation has served Northeastern Pennsylvania as a steward of charitable resources, a grantmaker, and a catalyst for positive change. Guided by our core values of collaboration, trust, integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, we work to ensure that our communities thrive with opportunities for all.

Scholarships

We are honored to be the stewards of over 90 scholarship funds established by philanthropically-minded individuals in our community. Generous donors entrust us to connect them to dynamic students to provide financial resources for their education through scholarships. Our donors establish scholarship funds with criteria they wish to be met by applicants. Our scholarship committee considers the criteria, evaluates the submitted applications, and chooses the best candidates for each scholarship.

Vipond Family Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a current or forthcoming student of Keystone College who demonstrates characteristics of good citizenship and community service.

Strengthening Pennsylvania’s Registered Apprenticeship Ecosystem Through the Navigator Program

The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) announces the availability of approximately $450,000 in funding for Strengthening Pennsylvania’s Registered Apprenticeship Ecosystem Through the Navigator Program to include one award of up to $450,000.

L&I has created this grant opportunity to continue support of a local and/or regional apprenticeship navigator program which enables the expansion of registered apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships. Additionally, the intent is to support technical assistance to regional consortiums of stakeholders, employers, intermediaries, training providers, and other partners by building a network of people trained on growing programming and apprenticeship ecosystems over the long term. 

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.

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.

Vulnerable Road User (VRU) Education, Outreach, and Engagement Projects

Provides education on Pennsylvania’s pedestrian and bicycle laws in communities where vulnerable road users account for a significant share of crashes. Projects should also address emerging issues and incorporate education on new or recent legislation affecting VRUs. Funding may support community engagement efforts that directly involve affected populations in planning future programs. 

Bucks County Foundation

Since our founding in 1979, the staff at BCF have been working closely with donors, local leaders, and nonprofit organizations to improve the quality of life in Bucks County. Our work with local charitable organizations helps to improve the health and wellbeing of children and families across the county.

Scholarships

The Bucks County Foundation is proud to support students throughout Bucks County in their pursuit of higher education and attainment of academic, trade and life skills that translate into economic self-sufficiency. Through the generosity of donors in our region, we manage over 100 scholarship distributions for a wide variety of students with diverse educational journeys.

Happ Grover Scholarship

Provides scholarships to Central Bucks School District area students who choose to attend Delaware Valley College or Bucks County Community College. This scholarship is not available for students to apply online and is awarded through the colleges.

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 PA Fair Fund offers Capital Improvement Matching Grants to support agricultural fairs and youth organizations in Pennsylvania. These grants, established under the Agricultural Fair Act of 1986, assist in funding new construction and maintenance of physical structures on fairgrounds. Eligible projects include building construction, utility improvements, and infrastructure enhancements. A 50% cash match is required, and in-kind contributions are not accepted. This funding aims to enhance the facilities and overall experience at agricultural fairs across the state.

The PA Fair Fund - State Agricultural Organization Funds Reimbursement Program supports Pennsylvania's Statewide Agricultural Organizations by reimbursing eligible expenses for agricultural events. Organizations can receive up to $2,000 in base funding and 50% reimbursement on premium costs, not exceeding $10,000. This funding enhances local economies by creating jobs, boosting tourism, and enabling farmers to directly market their products. Organizations must cover costs upfront, with grants awarded based on available funds.

The Pennsylvania Fair Fund supports agricultural fairs with operating and premium reimbursement through the Agricultural Fair Operating and Premium Reimbursement Program. Eligible fairs can receive up to $14,000 for operating costs, plus 50% reimbursement for premiums, capped at $15,000. This program aims to enhance educational activities and exhibits while ensuring compliance with state guidelines, thereby fostering community engagement in agriculture.

The Leeway Foundation's Community Care Fund (CCF) offers financial aid up to $1,250 for women and trans artists facing urgent needs. Established during the COVID-19 pandemic, the fund addresses critical requirements like housing and utilities, ensuring support for marginalized artists. With over $679,000 distributed in recent years, the CCF continues to serve eligible applicants in 2025, emphasizing the importance of emergency funding in the arts community.

The Pratt Family Foundation Grant, established in 1999, supports initiatives in education, healthcare, and community welfare. It prioritizes organizations that aid housing assistance, support for women in crisis, and disadvantaged youth programs, particularly in North Carolina. The Foundation favors established religious and charitable organizations that are tax-exempt and have a local presence. Preference is given to areas connected to the Pratt family, such as Texas and Florida, ensuring impactful contributions to community development.

The Northeast Agricultural Education Foundation Grant supports educational and leadership initiatives focused on agriculture within the Northeastern United States. Established as a private foundation, it provides funding to 501(c)(3) organizations that promote agricultural leadership, enhance understanding of food production, and improve farmers' quality of life. The Foundation prioritizes programs that educate youth about agriculture and promote farm safety awareness. Grants are primarily directed towards statewide or larger projects that align with these objectives.

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding above $25,000 to support health equity initiatives across North America. Founded in 1943, its mission focuses on removing barriers to quality healthcare for vulnerable communities. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with strategic pillars: reducing cancer burdens, preparing the healthcare workforce, and enhancing crisis response. Eligible organizations include national and local nonprofits. Funding is limited to specific regions and assessed based on demonstrated need and expected impact.

The Keystone Historic Preservation Construction Grants provide funding for construction activities aimed at rehabilitating, restoring, or preserving historic resources listed or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. This program, supported by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, is available to nonprofit organizations and local governments for small projects that enhance publicly accessible historic properties. Grant awards range from $5,000 to $100,000, requiring a 50/50 cash match.

The Corning Nonprofit Grants program supports community-based initiatives in education, human services, and culture. Eligible nonprofits that align with our criteria may apply for funding on a rolling basis. The application window for invited organizations runs from February 10 to September 15. We emphasize local impact within a 20-mile radius of Corning, NY, ensuring that our contributions foster collective growth and engagement in the community.

The Wold Foundation Grant, established in 1985, aims to support charitable, scientific, literary, and educational projects primarily benefiting Wyoming citizens and youth. It prioritizes initiatives in education, human services, cultural activities, healthcare, and scientific endeavors that promote conservation and outdoor recreation. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) classified and operate in the U.S. The foundation does not fund individuals or projects that discriminate based on sex, age, or religion.

M&T Charitable Foundation 

Our purpose is to understand the individuals and the businesses in our neighborhood, so we can create the right opportunities for the people we serve. During our 165-year history, we evolved with the needs of our locations, and are guided by a leadership team that holds us accountable.

Adapting to the needs of our neighbors means finding new solutions and sharing the Research & Insights we learn along the way. We support local organizations by volunteering our time and reinvesting in our community.

M&T Charitable Foundation Community Sponsorship Program

At M&T Bank we are building a stronger community - together. Our purpose is to understand the individuals and the businesses in our neighborhood, so we can create the right opportunities for the people we serve.

Community Sponsorships enable us to partner with nonprofit organizations to improve the quality of life in the regions we operate.

Our goal is to make meaningful community-based contributions and to work closely with the organizations we support beyond a financial commitment. At M&T Bank, we consider supporting sponsorship opportunities that result in a mutually beneficial partnership.

The Raftelis Leadership Scholarship, offered by the American Water Works Association, supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a consulting career in water utilities. With a value of $5,000, this scholarship aims to foster relationships with diverse, promising students who demonstrate leadership and strong academic performance. Applicants from various academic backgrounds, including business and finance, are encouraged to apply, emphasizing initiative and a desire to contribute positively to the community.

The Dow in the Delaware Valley Grant focuses on fostering collaboration and innovation to address local challenges while promoting sustainability. With over a century of commitment to the region, Dow aims to empower communities through partnerships that enhance disaster resilience, support STEM education, and drive sustainability initiatives. By aligning investments with the needs of the community, Dow is committed to creating equitable opportunities for all, ensuring a brighter future for the Delaware Valley.

The H. G. Barsumian, M.D. Memorial Fund Grant supports organizations engaged in medical research, primarily benefiting the Lancaster, Pennsylvania community. Established in 1998, this fund reflects the commitment of Jane Barsumian and Mary Lyons to enhance medical advancements. Grants average $25,000, with around five grants awarded annually. Eligibility requires organizations to be 501(c)(3) exempt. Although there are no geographic limitations, preference is given to local entities to foster community development.

The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) program is a federally-funded block grant that provides funds to eligible nonprofit community-based organizations or governmental entities that work to ameliorate the causes and conditions of poverty in disadvantaged and low-income communities across Pennsylvania.

The Secular Distribution Grant supports charitable activities aimed at enhancing community well-being, particularly within 100 miles of Coatesville, PA. Focused on health and human services, the grant encourages projects that address community needs, foster self-reliance, and promote civic engagement. With a commitment to philanthropic impact, funding is reserved for organizations demonstrating 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and a proven need, while maintaining strict eligibility criteria to ensure effective resource allocation.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) offers grants for schools to implement the PLTW Computer Science program from 2025 to 2028. Schools must provide at least one PLTW course in the first year and two courses in the second year. The total grant is $14,000, covering participation fees and training costs. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the U.S., with special encouragement for those serving low-income or minority-majority populations.

The Pennsylvania Council on the Arts offers the Creative Catalyst Grants to support innovative arts projects that can have a significant impact across the state. These grants aim to enhance the cultural, educational, and economic vitality of Pennsylvania's communities through special initiatives. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and local government units, with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The grant cycle is quarterly, ensuring timely support for unique arts opportunities.

The Dale Jr. Foundation, founded by NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt Jr., has raised over $8 million since 2007 to support various charities focusing on youth and underprivileged communities. The foundation emphasizes empowerment, education, wellness, hunger relief, and hope, aiming to provide resources that enhance confidence and opportunities for children facing hardships. Through fundraising efforts and partnerships with organizations like Make-A-Wish, the foundation strives to positively impact lives and foster a sense of normalcy among children in need.

The Investing in Artists: Tools & Equipment Grant, offered by the Center for Cultural Innovation, provides funding between $1,000 and $5,000 for individual craft artists in the U.S. to purchase essential tools and equipment. This program aims to enhance the creative support system, enabling artists to produce object-based work and meet safety standards. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to their craft and have presented public artistic work within the last three years.

Nature's Path's Gardens for Good program empowers communities by funding organic gardens that address food insecurity. Since 2010, it has donated $930,000 CAD to support 120 gardens. In 2023, grants of $6,500 each will be awarded to 20 gardens across the U.S. and Canada. Eligible applicants must be registered non-profits with urban organic agriculture projects that serve low-income communities, promoting sustainable practices and inclusivity.

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.