Best Pima County Grants for Nonprofits in Arizona

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.

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. 

501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in Pima County, Arizona can apply for PNC Foundation’s Foundation Grant to support early childhood education or community economic development programs. Funding can back classroom services, educator training, family engagement, affordable housing, small business support, arts and culture, or other initiatives serving low- and moderate-income children, families, and neighborhoods where PNC has a significant presence.

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.

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.

The Francis Grants, established by Catholic Extension, offer funding for significant events in poor mission dioceses, such as the ordination of new Bishops, anniversaries, or papal visits. These grants also support educational endeavors for Bishops. Named in honor of Francis Clement Kelly, Francis Cardinal George OMI, and Pope Francis, the program aims to strengthen the Catholic faith across the U.S. Since 1905, Catholic Extension has invested over $500 million to assist communities in need.

Pima County, Arizona 501(c)(3) nonprofits and fiscally sponsored groups serving LGBTQ+ residents can seek up to US $10,000 for programs and general operating support that benefit the LGBTQ+ community. Funding from the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona’s LGBTQ+ Alliance Fund prioritizes community building, transgender, elder, and youth initiatives across Southern Arizona, including Pima County.

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.

The Sun City Vistoso Community Foundation (SCVCF) provides financial support for health, cultural, recreational, educational, and charitable needs in the Sun City Oro Valley community. Since its establishment in 1998, SCVCF has distributed over $1 million to local projects and organizations, enhancing the quality of life for residents. Grants, averaging $4,000, are awarded primarily in the first half of each year, fostering a vibrant and caring community.

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.

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.

The Stocker Foundation Grants support innovative educational programs aimed at bridging the literacy gap in underserved communities. With a focus on STEAM initiatives, the Foundation seeks to partner with 501(c)(3) organizations in specific counties across Ohio, California, and Arizona. The goal is to enhance reading and writing skills through cross-disciplinary learning, while also providing essential support services that promote student engagement and academic success. Grants are not awarded for capital campaigns or individual projects.

The Catholic School Leadership Development Grant Program aims to cultivate and retain promising leaders within the Catholic school system. In partnership with Loyola Marymount University, this initiative offers a graduate-level online Certificate in Catholic School Administration, covering 80% of tuition costs and providing funding for essential travel. The one-year program focuses on mission effectiveness, operational management, and instructional leadership, requiring participants to serve two years in their diocese post-completion, thereby enhancing local educational leadership.

Catholic Extension's Enhancing Pastoral and Social Ministry Grants aim to empower the church to broaden its outreach and foster societal transformation through targeted pastoral and social initiatives. This program supports specific elements of the church's ministerial efforts, including funding for catechetical resources, marriage and family ministries, and social outreach for vulnerable populations. By investing in these areas, Catholic Extension seeks to enhance the church's role in communities, especially following disasters.

The Greater Green Valley Community Foundation offers grants to 501(c)3 non-profit organizations that serve the communities of Sahuarita, Green Valley, Amado, Arivaca, Tubac, and Tumacacori. The foundation aims to enrich lives through education, guidance, and financial support for various projects including health services, education, arts, culture, youth initiatives, environment, and animal care. These grants foster community development and support essential services.

Raytheon Technologies, through its Connect Up initiative, fosters transformative social impact by empowering underserved communities and inspiring future generations. They focus on lifelong learning in STEM fields, support veterans in their transition to civilian careers, and enhance local community welfare through strategic investments. Their commitment helps create a prosperous and equitable society, ensuring that diverse talent is developed for the workforce of tomorrow. This holistic approach aims to build a better future for all.

The Hellene Henrikson Fund of the Lutheran Church of the Foothills offers grants of up to $15,000 for nonprofit organizations addressing the needs of Native American communities in Southern Arizona. This fund, established through a generous donation, aims to support programs that help navigate cultural and societal challenges. With a total of $60,000 available to fund up to four applications, this initiative reflects a commitment to continuing Hellene Henrikson's legacy of philanthropy in the Tucson area.

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.

The Building Capacity Grants by Catholic Extension aim to enhance the financial and operational capabilities of dioceses. This initiative focuses on funding projects that promote efficiency, financial stability, and effective fiscal management, ultimately fostering a self-sustaining community. Eligible programs include fundraising development initiatives and operational assessments, ensuring resources are utilized efficiently while supporting professional development for church leadership. This grant empowers dioceses to strengthen their foundations for future growth.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c) organizations and Tohono O’odham Nation organizations in Pima County, Arizona can seek support for health care, education, arts and culture, community programs, seniors, and youth initiatives. Grants from Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment help local charitable groups fund events and projects, with requests accepted monthly and limited to one per organization each year.

Nonprofit and community organizations supporting community heroes, education, health and wellness, or distressed and underserved communities in Pima County, Arizona and other eligible counties can seek sponsorship or support for programs and events. Grants from Credit Union West help Pima County, Arizona 501(c)(3) organizations and similar groups enhance local quality of life through charitable projects and activities.

The Engaging Young Catholics Grants aim to support ministries that provide faith formation to children, teens, young adults, and families. By focusing on the pastoral needs of young Catholics, the program enhances community vibrancy and fosters new leadership within the church. Catholic Extension prioritizes operational support and seed funding for initiatives that develop youth and young adult ministries, ensuring that dioceses can effectively reach and engage younger generations in their faith.

The Building Leaders Grants by Catholic Extension aim to enhance the recruitment, education, and ongoing formation of church leaders. This initiative provides critical funding for the professional development of both ordained and lay leaders in mission dioceses. By fostering partnerships with various organizations, it addresses the need for trained ministers and supports various funding areas, including seminarian sponsorship and diaconate formation, ensuring a robust future for church leadership.

The Building Foundation Grants by Catholic Extension aim to support essential pastoral and administrative functions in under-resourced communities. These grants provide salary subsidies and operational funding to ordained, religious, and lay ministers, ensuring access to Catholic services. Prioritizing areas with significant financial need, this initiative seeks to sustain the church's presence where it is most critical, enabling continued ministry and outreach for those who may otherwise be underserved.

Pima County, Arizona 501(c)(3) nonprofits running safety, workforce development, community vitality, or environmental sustainability programs can access funding through Union Pacific Foundation’s Community Ties Local Grants. Awards of US $5,000 - US $30,000 support direct services and capacity-building projects that primarily benefit communities served by Union Pacific and advance diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Catholic Extension provides essential funding to support the construction, expansion, or renovation of churches and community facilities. This initiative aims to meet the facility needs of under-resourced Catholic dioceses across the U.S. By focusing on active projects, Catholic Extension ensures that communities can enhance their worship spaces and support local ministries, ultimately fostering a stronger church community. Funding is available for both minor and major requests, with an emphasis on urgent needs and robust funding strategies.