Best Pima County Grants for Nonprofits in Arizona

The PositiveNRG Grant Program, led by NRG Energy, focuses on investing in communities through choice and education, community engagement, resilience, sustainability, and well-being. The program is open to non-profit organizations and governmental entities that can demonstrate a meaningful impact. Preference is given to initiatives that foster community involvement and inclusiveness. However, sponsorships for religious or political activities are generally not supported. This program aims to empower communities through innovative energy solutions.

The TeamUp Grant, initiated by the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, offers nonprofits in Southern Arizona up to 20 hours of free consulting and coaching. Launched in 2021, it aims to assist organizations at critical stages in their development. With a limitation of nine projects approved per cycle, the grant emphasizes strategic support for nonprofits facing transitions, growth, or partnerships. This initiative reflects CFSA's commitment to fostering community engagement and addressing local needs effectively.

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.

Nonprofits, governments, tribes, schools, and even for-profits serving homeless or at-risk Veterans in Pima County, Arizona can seek funding for coordinated services and outreach. Arizona Department of Veterans' Services supports military and Veterans homelessness efforts across multiple Arizona counties and encourages collaborative, community-based proposals that expand benefits and support for the state’s Veterans.

ATI Physical Therapy is dedicated to enhancing community health and wellness through its sponsorship and donation initiatives. With a mission to exceed customer expectations, ATI actively engages in philanthropic efforts that improve lives and promote quality care beyond clinic walls. They encourage requests for support while emphasizing a review process that ensures timely responses. Partnering with local organizations, ATI aims to elevate awareness of health and wellness, impacting thousands of lives each year.

Nonprofits, schools, and government entities in Pima County, Arizona that serve women and girls can apply for Freeport-McMoRan Foundation’s Women’s Development Grants to support education, workforce skills, and small business development. Funding may help programs that boost college and career readiness, increase financial capability, and improve employment or income outcomes for female participants.

K-12 schools and teachers in Pima County, Arizona can receive US $100 - US $500 mini-grants to support classroom projects in environment, mining and natural resources, reading and literacy, and STEM. With a mission to strengthen education, Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Foundation provides funding for eligible public and private schools in its local communities.

The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program, in partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), aims to enhance the quality, safety, and accessibility of community football fields. With grants up to $250,000, this initiative addresses the critical lack of safe recreation spaces in low-income neighborhoods, ensuring children and adults have access to well-maintained facilities for gathering and exercise, ultimately fostering community health and well-being.

The APS/Phoenix Suns STEM Teacher Grants support K-12 teachers in Arizona by funding innovative, hands-on STEM projects in classrooms. With awards of up to $2,500, these grants aim to inspire students' love for science, technology, engineering, and math. Each year, a total of $50,000 is available for projects that promote creative learning experiences, from robotic programming to aquaponic farming. Grants are available for classroom projects occurring between January and May.

Nonprofit organizations serving communities in Pima County, Arizona can seek support for programs in education and employment, small business and entrepreneurship, arts and culture, human services, environment, and community development. Arizona Public Service gives additional consideration to initiatives aiding under-resourced populations within its service territory through its Community Impact Grants.

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. 

SA Recycling is a leading metal recycler, operating over 70 facilities across multiple states. Committed to environmental sustainability, the organization promotes recycling to conserve natural resources and reduce production costs. They actively engage with local communities through job creation and support for various programs, including law enforcement and non-profit organizations. SA Recycling also contributes to community well-being via service and monetary donations, striving to enhance the quality of life for employees and their families.

Research institutions in Pima County, Arizona and the broader Southwest conducting herpetology or tortoise conservation studies can apply for Desert Tortoise Council’s David J. Morafka Memorial Research Award. This US $2,500 grant supports research on Gopherus tortoises’ biology, management, and conservation; applicants must be affiliated with a recognized institution and present results at a future Council symposium.

Pima County, Arizona nonprofits and public entities running food access or nutrition education programs can access funding through Bayer Fund to address malnutrition and hunger. Eligible applicants must be established, financially sound 501(c)(3) organizations or government units located in an eligible legacy-Monsanto community, serving underserved or rural families, especially those with children under five.

Low-income undergraduate students in Pima County, Arizona and across the state can receive need-based college funding through the AzLEAP Grant Program, supporting higher education access and equity. Arizona Board of Regents provides up to US $2,500 per year for Arizona residents enrolled at least half-time at participating accredited postsecondary institutions.

The Robert A. Winn Diversity in Clinical Trials: Clinical Investigator Pathway Program (Winn CIPP) offers a 6-week summer externship aimed at medical students from underrepresented backgrounds. Funded by the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation, this program focuses on enhancing clinical research participation and community engagement. Participants will receive mentorship, learn essential skills in clinical trials, and engage in community service projects while receiving a stipend to cover related expenses. This initiative aims to foster diversity in clinical research.

Nonprofit organizations providing basic human needs, food security, housing stabilization, and other emergency services in Pima County, Arizona can apply for grants of US $25,000 - US $75,000 to support residents impacted by the federal government shutdown. Grants from Pima County help local 501(c)(3)s expand crisis response, prevent eviction, and address urgent human needs.

The Stantec Community Engagement Grant is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in communities where Stantec operates. Focused on arts, education, environment, and health and wellness, the grant supports initiatives that foster sustainable development and responsible practices. Organizations seeking funding must align with Stantec's values, emphasizing ethical practices and community impact. Preference is given to projects located near Stantec offices, ensuring a more significant local impact through their contributions.

High-achieving students graduating from Arizona high schools who plan to attend ASU, NAU, or the University of Arizona can receive a four-year, full-ride scholarship covering tuition, fees, and room and board. Grants from Arizona Community Foundation help Pima County, Arizona college-bound youth with mentoring support and potential opportunities for study abroad, internships, and other programs.

The Southern Arizona Nursing Scholarship aims to alleviate financial burdens for students pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree. This scholarship covers in-state tuition and fees for eligible students at non-profit Southern Arizona community colleges, facilitating their preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam and RN certification. It particularly supports first-generation college students, ensuring they have access to the necessary education and resources to succeed in the nursing field.

High school graduates from Southern Arizona attending accredited community colleges can apply for the Boilard-Harkin Scholarship, awarding up to US $1,250 for post-secondary studies. Offered by the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, this support may benefit students from Pima County and nearby counties who need help covering community college costs.

Refugee and immigrant students escaping conflict in the Middle East who graduated from Southern Arizona high schools and attend the University of Arizona or Pima Community College can receive up to US $2,000 for tuition or related college costs. Focused on academic scholarship support, Community Foundation for Southern Arizona invites eligible students in Pima County, Arizona to apply.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations addressing basic needs, income creation, housing stability, or community empowerment in Pima County, Arizona can apply for local funding. Grants from Bank of America Charitable Foundation help support economic mobility for low- and moderate-income communities, including vulnerable groups such as working families, youth, seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities.

The Ferguson Cares Grant is an essential aspect of Ferguson's Sustainability strategy, focusing on social challenges and community wellbeing. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to affordable housing, skilled trades workforce development, clean water access, and enhancing local economic quality of life. Ferguson aims to create lasting partnerships that drive positive impact within their operational regions, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and community support.

About Angel Charity For Children IncAngel Charity for Children, Inc., is a nonprofit organization comprised of approximately 250 devoted volunteers representing a cross-section of the Tucson community. Through innovative fundraising, these dedicated ‘Angels’ are committed to providing Pima County’s children with the vibrant future they so richly deserve.

Angel Charity For Children Impact Grants

We invest in projects that provide children with the vibrant future they so richly deserve. For 43 years, Angel Charity has funded over $33 million to benefit more than one million children.

• Opportunities for at-risk children to thrive and look forward to a bright future.
• Critical health services, medical care and research to bring hope and relief to sick children.
• Construction and renovation of brick-and-mortar facilities that give children safe, comfortable space to play and receive services and care.
• Arts and educational opportunities to enhance a child’s learning experiences.
• A variety of children’s needs are considered for funding regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual preference or national origin.

About Angel Charity For Children IncAngel Charity for Children, Inc., is a nonprofit organization comprised of approximately 250 devoted volunteers representing a cross-section of the Tucson community. Through innovative fundraising, these dedicated ‘Angels’ are committed to providing Pima County’s children with the vibrant future they so richly deserve.Angel Charity For Children Opportunity GrantsWe invest in projects that provide children with the vibrant future they so richly deserve. For 43 years, Angel Charity has funded over $33 million to benefit more than one million children.

• Opportunities for at-risk children to thrive and look forward to a bright future.
• Critical health services, medical care and research to bring hope and relief to sick children.
• Construction and renovation of brick-and-mortar facilities that give children safe, comfortable space to play and receive services and care.
• Arts and educational opportunities to enhance a child’s learning experiences.
• A variety of children’s needs are considered for funding regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual preference or national origin.

The A. O. Smith Foundation, established in 1955, provides grants to support charitable, educational, and human services organizations primarily in communities where A. O. Smith Corporation operates. With a mission focused on enhancing community well-being, the Foundation promotes education, arts, culture, and health initiatives. It encourages employees to engage in volunteerism, fostering a culture of community involvement. Notably, the Foundation does not fund politically active organizations or those primarily aiming to influence legislation.