Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Arizona

The Albertsons Foundation - Southwest supports nonprofit organizations that enhance local communities in the Southwest, focusing on health, hunger, education, veterans, and diversity. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 for first-time applicants, with higher amounts considered for established organizations. Eligible applicants must have a valid 501(c)(3) designation and serve the community. The foundation does not fund individuals, political or religious organizations, or events.

BOK Charitable Contributions aims to enhance community life and economic wellbeing across several states, focusing on four key pillars: United Way, economic development, education, and basic needs. The foundation supports organizations that address poverty, education, and community health. Their strategic approach ensures impactful contributions, and they welcome grant applications year-round. BOK Financial's commitment is evident in its partnerships with local nonprofits, fostering sustainable growth and development in the regions they serve.

The Bob and Renee Parsons Foundation is dedicated to supporting low-income and underserved communities through transformational gifts to nonprofit organizations. Focused on areas such as youth and education, health and home, military and first responders, the foundation aims to make a measurable impact. By prioritizing organizations that align with their mission, they strive to empower individuals and break the cycles of poverty and discrimination, ensuring every community member has a chance to thrive.

The Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust focuses on enhancing health and well-being in Maricopa County, Arizona, through strategic grantmaking in six key areas: arts and culture, children, education, healthcare, older adults, and religious organizations. By collaborating with local nonprofits, the Trust aims to strengthen community support and leadership, ensuring that marginalized populations have access to vital services and opportunities that foster inclusion and development.

The Sunwest Bank Charitable Foundation Grant aims to foster a philanthropic corporate culture by supporting local nonprofit organizations focused on the welfare of vulnerable children and families. The Foundation prioritizes cash grants to organizations addressing food, housing, health, safety, and education needs in communities served by Sunwest Bank. Eligible nonprofits must align with the Foundation's mission and engage in a transparent application process, with extra consideration given to organizations where Sunwest employees volunteer.

The Arizona Housing Fund Grant supports permanent supportive housing projects for vulnerable individuals and families earning up to 30% AMI. Funded by the Arizona Community Foundation, this initiative aims to reduce homelessness by providing sustainable revenue for non-profit developers. Eligible organizations must have at least five years of experience and prior funding from recognized entities. The grant operates on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring timely assistance to mission-aligned projects in Arizona.

The Del E. Webb Foundation Grant offers financial support ranging from $5,000 to $3,000,000 for nonprofit organizations operating in Arizona, California, or Nevada. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance self-sufficiency and have long-term benefits, particularly in child and health initiatives. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities and demonstrate a commitment to community service. The application process involves submitting a Letter of Intent, followed by a formal application if invited.

Community Investment Fund

Community Investment Funds (CIFs) have been established in communities near our operations in Colorado, New Mexico and southeastern Arizona. The CIFs engage community leaders in cultivating and assessing community projects that address identified community priorities (developed at Community Partnership Panels), and allow them to allocate Freeport-McMoRan Foundation funds to programs and projects that encourage a strong focus on local capacity-building, community development and sustainability.

Focus Areas

Education and Workforce Development:

The following are examples of the types of programs we seek in support of the Education & Workforce Development priority and goals.

• PK-12:
  • Professional development programs for teachers and/or school administrators
  • Student preparation, incentive or other programs that drive achievement /performance and matriculation (including early childhood)
  • Classroom equipment or supplies that are proven to drive achievement /performance and are tied to a program or training/professional development
  • Programs that remove barriers or address problems related to lack of performance
  • Programs that engage parents in supporting their student’s achievement in reading, math or the pursuit of graduation and/or enrollment in higher education
  • Research studies, surveys or other activities to identify gaps and needs
• Higher Education:
  • Student counseling or advising services that help students navigate the process of enrollment in a higher ed program
  • Programs that increase access / remove barriers to enrollment or the pursuit of higher ed
  • Teacher/school administrator or counselor training needed to fully understand the higher education landscape, what is available to students and how to access it
  • Student preparation, awareness, incentive or other campaigns or efforts that drive enrollment and attainment
  • Research studies, surveys or other activities to identify gaps and needs

Economic Opportunity:

The following are examples of the types of programs we seek in support of the Economic Opportunity priority and goals.

• Small Business Development:
  • Programs that provide training or skill-building to entrepreneurs on start-up or growth
  • Access to capital programs
  • Other support services that drive start-up, expansion or retention
  • Research studies, surveys or other activities to identify gaps and needs among small business owners
• Affordable Housing:
  • Loan funds or other resource programs that help families access housing options or make housing more affordable for them
  • Housing improvement programs that allow families to stay in safe, quality housing
  • Research studies, surveys or other activities to identify gaps, needs or viable models
• Other Economic Opportunity:
  • Programs that provide transportation to health, education, recreation or other critical activities
  • Programs that increase the availability of and access to quality healthcare facilities and services
  • Projects that create or improve parks or other recreational activities
  • Projects that improve or eliminate blight or beautify high traffic areas in the community
  • Restoration of lands for habitat or public use
  • Projects that improve river or waterway health
• Capacity and Leadership:

The following are examples of the types of programs we seek in support of the Resiliency, Capacity and Leadership priority and goals.

• Programs that provide leadership or other skills for staff, board, volunteers or other community constituents to improve organizational or community performance.
• Organizational self-assessment or diagnoses activities to determine gaps and needs.
• Efforts to develop leadership succession plans that protect and prolong organizational effectiveness.
• Planning initiatives to evaluate, identify and/or consider supports needed to weather future economic disruptions (commodities market or global economy downturns, health pandemics, technological disruptors to the future of jobs/economies, etc.)
• Programs, training or other efforts that aid organizations in understanding the broader social context of which they are part and how they can collectively mobilize to address community needs and create resiliency.
• The development of leadership networks as a tool for transformative social change and amplifying impact across social systems or issues.
• Projects to increase citizen engagement in solving or addressing community challenges or opportunities.

This philosophy includes securing and maintaining our social license to operate and delivering transformation through robust stakeholder engagement and consultation, social investment, and impact evaluation. 

The Social Impact Theatre Grant Program supports innovative theatrical productions that address pressing social issues, fostering dialogue and community engagement. With a focus on sustainability, the program offers production-specific and change capital grants to eligible nonprofit organizations in select states. Grantees are encouraged to explore new models, deepen community connections, and support emerging leaders in theatre. Applications for the next cycle will open in Spring 2025, following the completion of the current funding round.

The Cigna Foundation is dedicated to enhancing veteran mental health through strategic partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative targets the alarming issue of homelessness among veterans, with nearly 40,000 veterans without shelter nightly and 1.5 million at risk. By funding evidence-informed programs, the foundation aims to increase access to permanent housing, improve affordability, and provide essential wraparound services, ultimately fostering mental health stability and resilience within veteran communities.

The Arizona Community Foundation of Yuma, established in 1993, champions enduring philanthropy to enhance Yuma County. With over $19 million in assets and more than $10 million granted since inception, ACF connects community needs with passionate donors. Last year alone, it invested over $1 million in local projects. Eligible organizations can apply for funding to build capacity, support direct services, and cover operating costs, fostering sustainable impact across the region.

The Bayer Fund Health & Wellness Grant Program aims to support organizations that provide education and resources for patients and caregivers facing cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Grants focus on assisting communities, particularly the African American population, in managing these health issues. Funding covers educational services, disease awareness, and access to care, with all activities to commence post-funding decisions. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) status and operate within 55 miles of Bayer sites.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Arizona provide vital support to eligible communities facing emergencies that threaten safe drinking water availability. This program is designed for state and local governments, nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized tribes in rural areas. Funding can be used for water transmission line repairs, construction of water sources, and related infrastructure improvements. These efforts aim to restore access to clean water and enhance resilience against future disasters.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Arizona provides essential funding for clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water drainage in eligible rural areas. It supports local governments, non-profits, and tribes with financing for projects that ensure reliable services. Funds can cover construction, engineering costs, and necessary equipment, promoting healthier communities and sustainable development in rural settings.

The Women's Development Initiatives Grant Program, funded by Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Foundation, focuses on enhancing education and economic opportunities for women in various communities. This initiative aims to empower women through skills training, small business development, and leadership programs, ultimately fostering their participation in economic growth. Eligible organizations must directly serve women and girls in specified locations, demonstrating measurable impacts and sustainability beyond funding.

Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation is launching Innovation Grants in 2026 to support groundbreaking oral health and food insecurity programs. These grants aim to address critical challenges faced by underserved communities through innovative, adaptable projects that demonstrate real-world impact. Nonprofit organizations are encouraged to apply, especially those that foster collaboration, utilize proven strategies in new contexts, and engage the community in co-creating solutions. Funding will enhance access to essential services and promote healthier outcomes.

The Comunidad Grants, offered by the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, aim to empower local grassroots nonprofits addressing pressing community issues. Since 1980, CFSA has connected donors with impactful organizations in Pima, Santa Cruz, and neighboring counties, fostering inclusion and dignity. By prioritizing rural organizations and those serving historically marginalized communities, the program ensures that funding is allocated where it is most needed, allowing nonprofits the autonomy to effectively pursue their missions.

The Salad and Go Charities Grant supports local 501(c)(3) nonprofit meal programs that provide nutritious food to those facing food insecurity. Aimed at enhancing community wellness, the program offers grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 for initiatives like expanding kitchen facilities and sourcing healthy ingredients. Organizations in Texas, Oklahoma, Nevada, and Arizona are encouraged to apply, fostering access to affordable food for vulnerable populations in need.

The Community Foundation of Yavapai Grant, managed by the Arizona Community Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations in Yavapai County. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 are available to 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and tribal entities that benefit the local community in various fields, including animal welfare, children’s services, environmental initiatives, and healthcare. Applicants must comply with non-discrimination policies and ensure their projects serve residents within the county.

The One AZ Community Foundation Community Impact Grant offers $5,000 to eligible nonprofits in Arizona that focus on economic empowerment, community vitality, and developing future leaders. Organizations must have at least two years of 501(c)(3) status, a budget between $500,000 and $5 million, and cannot have received funding in the previous year. This grant aims to create lasting community impact by supporting initiatives that strengthen local organizations and enhance the quality of life.

The Arizona Route 66 Grant aims to mobilize philanthropy for preserving and promoting Route 66 in Arizona. The Arizona Community Foundation, in partnership with the Historic Route 66 Association, invites applications from eligible organizations for grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000. Projects may include restoration, educational outreach, and planning activities that enhance the historical significance of Route 66 while fostering community partnerships and supporting local economies.

The Bisbee Foundation, part of the Arizona Community Foundation, supports non-profit organizations through General Operating Grants aimed at enhancing the unique historical and cultural qualities of Bisbee. Eligible organizations must have tax-exempt status and a two-year programming history. Grants require matching funds and are intended for operational support rather than construction or travel. The foundation focuses on preserving Bisbee's artistic heritage, ensuring its vibrant community continues to thrive.

The AZ Arts Festival Grant, provided by the Arizona Commission on the Arts, supports diverse arts and culture festivals in Arizona. Grants are available for in-person, virtual, or hybrid events that emphasize artistic expression and community engagement. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, local government entities, and arts agencies. Festivals must span at least two weekends and feature curated programming. Ineligible activities include standalone productions and projects with religious or political purposes.

The Arizona Community Foundation of Flagstaff, established in 1987, provides vital funding to enhance the quality of life for Flagstaff residents through various competitive grant programs. These grants support local nonprofit organizations, schools, and community groups across multiple fields, including education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. The Foundation emphasizes collaboration with grant applicants, aiming to empower them to deliver high-quality services and programs that directly benefit the community.

Arizona Community Foundation

For more than four decades, the Arizona Community Foundation has worked in tandem with generous individuals, families, and organizations to address some of the biggest challenges facing our state.

Our Mission: Lead, serve, and collaborate to mobilize enduring philanthropy for a better Arizona.

Arizona Public Service (APS) Grant

Since 2001, APS has partnered with Arizona Community Foundation to provide funding to qualified nonprofit agencies that support growth and community needs in the west valley. Agencies eligible for funding must be nonprofit organizations with at least 3 years of continued operation serving residents in the geographical area: North to Bell Road (extend boundary line west when Bell Road ends), West to 459th Avenue, South to Estrella/Gillespie Dam, and East to 19th Avenue.

Statement of Purpose

Through an open, competitive cycle the APS funds will benefit & support eligible nonprofits through grants in the areas of arts & culture, community development, education, environment, and human services.

In addition, the APS Fund encourages and supports projects that meet the following criteria:

• serve a variety of ethnic, economic or cultural backgrounds
• include new or creative solutions to problems or issues
• involve volunteers and in-kind gifts that demonstrate community involvement
• foster cooperative efforts between organizations

The In-N-Out Burger Foundation supports organizations that aid children and youth affected by abuse and neglect, offering grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. Eligible nonprofits must be 501(c)(3) registered, operational for at least two years, and demonstrate a commitment to the foundation's mission. Applications are considered for traditional, capital, and program support, focusing on sustainable solutions and clear objectives. Organizations must operate in areas with In-N-Out Burger locations to qualify.

The Kellenberger + Tollefson Center for LGBTQ Philanthropy Grant, offered by the Arizona Community Foundation, aims to promote justice and opportunities for LGBTQ individuals across Arizona. The grant supports organizations focused on youth, seniors, and transgender communities, fostering environments where everyone can thrive. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and other charitable entities. This initiative seeks to create lasting impacts for LGBTQ individuals, ensuring their rights and dignity are upheld.