Best Transportation Grants in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) supports and manages the Commonwealth's vast transportation network, helping to enhance the quality of life in our communities and keep PA's economy moving. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) oversees programs and policies affecting highways, urban and rural public transportation, airports, railroads, ports, and waterways.

Over 75% of PennDOT's annual budget is invested in Pennsylvania's approximately 122,000 miles of state and local highways and 32,000 state and local bridges. PennDOT is directly responsible for nearly 40,000 miles of highway and roughly 25,400 bridges, a system first established in 1911. PennDOT also administers the state's 11.8 million vehicle registrations and 10.2 million driver's licenses and IDs, and oversees safety and emission inspection programs.

5310 Private Non-Profit Vehicle Grants

The Federal Section 5310 program funds vehicles to enhances mobility for seniors and/or individuals with disabilities. These federal funds support the purchase of vehicles for local public transportation providers who provide Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Shared Ride service in Pennsylvania.

In addition, Pennsylvania awards funds to Private Non-Profit (PNP) Organizations through a competitive process. PennDOT’s Bureau of Public Transportation (BPT) partially funds the procurement of accessible vehicles for awarded applicants. PennDOT provides awards to PNPs to fill gaps in service that cannot be provided by local public transportation providers.

Capital Expenses

Vehicles eligible as capital expenses under the Federal Section 5310 program include:

PNPs:

• Accessible small buses
• Accessible vans
• Accessible minivans

Passengers

Federal Section 5310-funded vehicles must transport passengers who are seniors and/or individuals with disabilities.

• Seniors: individuals 65 years or older.
• Individuals with Disabilities: individuals with a temporary or permanent disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Local governments, Pennsylvania universities, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on traffic safety data and programs in Pennsylvania can apply for funding to conduct a distracted driving observational survey and related behavioral initiatives. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation supports transportation and road safety projects that use data-driven strategies and include programmatic or behavioral safety components, not equipment-only requests.

Norfolk Southern Foundation provides Pennsylvania vocational and trade students with $5,000 scholarships for rail-related transportation careers. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a post-secondary trade, technical, community college, or railway training program in approved states and pursuing roles like locomotive engineer, conductor, maintenance, welding, electrical, safety, construction, or heavy equipment operation.

Focused on transportation infrastructure, this program invites Pennsylvania municipalities, councils of governments, businesses, economic development organizations, public transit agencies, and rail and freight ports to seek funding for multimodal projects. The Multimodal Transportation Fund supports development, rehabilitation, and enhancement of transportation assets, including streetscapes, lighting, sidewalks, pedestrian safety, connectivity, and transit-oriented development, with awards over US $100,000.

Nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status or a fiscal sponsor, working on environmental and climate justice, can seek funding for public transportation and mass transit initiatives in Pennsylvania. Scherman Foundation supports BIPOC-led, movement-building efforts that connect transit equity with climate resilience, racial justice, and related policy or grassroots organizing across New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

Grassroots, community-led organizations in Pennsylvania working on climate justice and related issues like public transportation, housing, food access, health, or racial justice can receive capacity-building support through this fund. Bread & Roses Community Fund offers US $15,000 for organizing training, strategy development, and strengthening climate justice campaigns centered on impacted communities.

Pennsylvania state and local governments, Tribal governments, transit agencies, port authorities, and similar public project sponsors can seek funding for surface transportation infrastructure projects with significant local or regional impact. These BUILD grants from the US Department of Transportation support multi-modal, multi-jurisdictional public transportation and infrastructure projects, with awards up to US $25,000,000 across eligible U.S. jurisdictions.

Municipalities, councils of governments, and nonprofits working with municipalities in Pennsylvania can receive up to US $50,000 to plan and design pedestrian and bicycle transportation projects that enhance active travel connections. Grants from Allegheny County help fund planning, engineering, and design for bike- and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure consistent with county transportation and health improvement plans.

Grassroots, community-led organizations in Pennsylvania implementing climate justice organizing strategies can use this grant for campaigns, direct actions, coalition building, and mobilizing residents, including around public transportation and transit equity. Grants from Bread & Roses Community Fund provide US $25,000 to small groups, especially those in Philadelphia County, with budgets under $500,000 and leadership from climate-impacted communities.

Nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsorship providing transportation for healthcare and human or social service appointments in Pennsylvania can use this mini grant for Lyft, Uber, or SEPTA rides. Grants from Phoenixville Health Care Foundation help invited partners in the greater Phoenixville area offer up to US $2,500 in Ride for Health support.

Emergency and medical workers in Pennsylvania needing help affording behavioral health prescriptions, counseling, psychotherapy, or related transportation can receive up to US $2,000 in copay assistance through the Emergency/Medical Workers Behavioral Health Fund. Focused on behavioral health access, HealthWell Foundation supports underinsured workers receiving treatment in the U.S., which may include transportation to appointments.

Individuals in Pennsylvania receiving treatment in the U.S. for cancer-related behavioral health conditions can receive up to US $2,000 from the HealthWell Foundation for prescription drug copays, counseling, psychotherapy, and transportation. This national program may benefit patients facing travel costs to access behavioral health services connected to their cancer care.

The Smart Growth America Community Connectors Grant Program supports small and mid-sized cities in addressing divisive infrastructure caused by dangerous roads. With funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this program aims to reconnect communities through temporary street safety projects while fostering skills and partnerships. Eligible teams must represent populations of 50,000 to 500,000 and include both government and community-based organizations. Priority will be given to projects benefiting low-income communities historically affected by disinvestment.

The Area Development Grant Program, managed by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), supports economic growth in Appalachia through investments in critical infrastructure and workforce development. Targeting 423 counties across 13 states, the program encourages local communities to collaborate with state governments to identify and implement impactful projects. Key focus areas include enhancing utilities, promoting entrepreneurship, and strengthening local leadership. This initiative aims to uplift the 26 million residents of Appalachia, fostering sustainable economic opportunities.

Elderly professional blues musicians in Pennsylvania facing emergency medical or basic living expenses can receive US $500 in assistance for transportation to appointments, temporary home care, utilities, or similar needs. The Pinetop Perkins Foundation’s Pinetop Assistance League pays creditors directly, and may help with transport-related costs that support access to care and essentials.

The Revitalizing Westmoreland Grant Program, managed by the Pittsburgh Foundation, aims to support vulnerable populations in Westmoreland County. By investing in both community and individual needs, the program facilitates revitalization projects for households living at or below 200% of poverty. Nonprofits based in or serving the county can apply for grants up to $20,000, ensuring a vibrant community where residents can thrive.

The United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania is launching its Multi-Year Grants program, with applications opening in January 2026 for funding starting in July 2026. This initiative aims to support nonprofit organizations addressing critical community needs across five counties. Key investment priorities include meeting basic needs, promoting financial stability, and enhancing educational success for youth. Interested applicants can attend information sessions from October to November 2025 to learn more about the grant process.

Pennsylvania transportation and history organizations can access funding through William G Pomeroy Foundation to install historic transportation markers at publicly accessible sites. Eligible 501(c)(3)s, nonprofit academic institutions, and government entities across the U.S. may propose canals, bridges, tunnels, railroads, or aircraft used for moving goods or people before 1945, supported by primary source documentation.

Tyson Foods invites sponsorship proposals that reflect its core values and contribute to community welfare, particularly in Springdale, Arkansas, and Dakota Dunes, South Dakota. Proposals should demonstrate clear community benefits, visibility of the event, and outline how funds will be utilized effectively. Organizations are encouraged to apply if they align with Tyson's mission of integrity and stewardship, ensuring that funding can support primary objectives while considering tax-deductible options.

MileOneCares offers community grants aimed at enhancing lives through improved access to transportation and community support. Non-profits with 501(c)(3) status, operational for two years, can apply for funding to address local needs. The program prioritizes initiatives that uplift youth and the elderly in underserved areas. Applications are accepted year-round, but those for the current calendar year must be submitted by November 8. Grants do not support endowments or individuals.

Transportation and mobility-focused nonprofits in Pennsylvania can seek US $5,000 - US $10,000 to improve public transit, reduce congestion and accidents, and increase transportation accessibility. Grants from Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund help organizations advancing mobility, environmental conservation, and community well-being across the U.S., including projects that enhance public transportation and safer travel options.

Pennsylvania students majoring in transportation technology and continuing their studies next semester can receive scholarship support for higher education costs. This endowment from Austin Community Foundation awards US $3,000 based on financial need, academic achievement, and demonstrated leadership and community involvement, and may benefit those preparing for careers in public transportation and mass transit systems.

The Mellon Foundation's Economic Development Grant Program aims to address economic disparities in Pittsburgh and southwestern Pennsylvania by enhancing workforce skills and creating job opportunities. The program focuses on talent development, workforce systems, and community building, advocating for innovative education and training that aligns with future job markets. It seeks proposals that promote 21st-century skills, foster entrepreneurship, and support underrepresented groups, ultimately driving economic independence and community vitality.

The Furchak-Ferko Annual Grant Program, established by Margaret Furchak Ferko, aims to address critical community gaps affecting women and families in Erie County. With an annual grant budget of approximately $30,000, it supports projects in areas such as transportation, healthcare, workforce training, housing, childcare, and food insecurity. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, while for-profit and certain other projects are excluded. This initiative is a vital resource for community development.

Transportation research institutions and policy organizations in Pennsylvania can seek funding to study and improve U.S. transportation systems, including public transit and surface infrastructure. With a mission to improve lives through evidence-based policy, Arnold Ventures provides up to US $200,000 for research, data, and policy reform projects on capital investment, cost control, access, and project delivery nationwide.

The Opportunity Fund Grants support small to midsize arts organizations and initiatives promoting social and economic justice, primarily benefiting the Greater Pittsburgh community. Funding areas include performing and visual arts, with a focus on projects led by Black and LGBTQ+ individuals. Grants are available for organizations with 501(c)(3) status or governmental entities. The fund emphasizes flexibility in its focus to adapt to community needs, ensuring diverse projects receive support.

The Benter Foundation Grant supports invited organizations whose projects align with the foundation's current priorities. Established in 2007, the foundation focuses on enhancing livability in Pittsburgh, promoting smart transportation, the arts, and global connections. It also aims to broaden access to opportunities for local communities, encouraging young people to pursue education and career development. Through innovative projects, the foundation seeks to create impactful solutions beyond Pittsburgh, fostering community engagement and addressing global challenges.