Best Pittsburgh Grants for Nonprofits in Pennsylvania

The Audrey Hillman Fisher Foundation Grant aims to enhance health and healing for communities through investments in the arts, education, human services, and environmental initiatives. With a focus on Pittsburgh, PA, Santa Barbara, CA, and Squam Lakes, NH, the foundation accepts grant applications year-round, with deadlines of January 5 for June funding and July 1 for November funding. The foundation prioritizes projects from new organizations within these regions.

About PLTW EngineeringPLTW Engineering students adopt a problem-solving mindset, are engaged in compelling, real-world challenges that help them become better collaborators and thinkers, and are prepared with skills to step into any career path they take.

Through this partnership, Haemonetics is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year.Program Requirements:

• Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Engineering course in the 2027-2028 academic year and must offer one additional course in the 2028-2029 academic year (two different courses in two years).
• Grantee may implement any PLTW Engineering courses of their choosing.
• Grantee must complete two years of grant reporting.

Grant Award and Distribution Schedule:

• Total Award: $30,000
  • 2027-2028: $15,000
  • 2028-2029: $15,000

About PLTW Launch PLTW Launch (PreK-5) taps into students’ exploratory nature, engages them in learning that feels like play, and encourages them to keep discovering – now and for any future they choose.Through this partnership, Haemonetics is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year.Program Requirements: 

• Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Launch module in the 2027-2028 academic year and must offer one additional module for the 2028-2029 academic year (two different modules in two years).
• Grantee may implement any PLTW Launch modules of their choosing.
• Grantee must complete two years of grant reporting.

Grant Award and Distribution Schedule:

• Total Award: $20,000
  • 2027-2028: $10,000
  • 2028-2029: $10,000

About PLTW Launch PLTW Launch (PreK-5) taps into students’ exploratory nature, engages them in learning that feels like play, and encourages them to keep discovering – now and for any future they choose.Through this partnership, Haemonetics is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year.Program Requirements: 

• Grantees must use these grant funds to expand their program.
  • Example expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Launch module not previously offered, and/or offering existing PLTW Launch modules to more students
  • and/or training additional teachers in PLTW Launch Classroom Teacher Training or PLTW Launch Lead Teacher Training for the 2027-2028 academic year.
• Grantee must complete one year of grant reporting. 

Grant Award and Distribution Schedule:

• Total Award: $10,000
  • 2027-2028: $10,000

The Free Tax Prep Coalition (FTPC), funded by United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania, aims to provide high-quality tax preparation assistance to families and individuals through the IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. This initiative supports income-eligible individuals, including those with disabilities, limited English proficiency, and military families. FTPC seeks partners to enhance its outreach and effectiveness in delivering these essential services within the community.

The Polk Foundation Grant supports initiatives that enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities in southwestern Pennsylvania. Established by Patricia Hillman Miller, the Foundation prioritizes programs focusing on health, human services, and community inclusion. It seeks to empower people with disabilities through collaborative efforts, innovative technology, and impactful research. While Merakey AVS remains a primary beneficiary, the Foundation welcomes applications from other nonprofits aligned with its mission, ensuring accessibility and support for diverse needs.

The Allegheny County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program supports vital community development projects aimed at benefiting low- to moderate-income individuals. Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the program encompasses a wide range of initiatives, including housing development, infrastructure improvements, and workforce development. Eligible applicants include local governments, authorities, and both nonprofit and for-profit organizations. All projects must align with HUD’s objectives and contribute to community revitalization efforts.

The James G. Fulton and J. Steele Gow Political Internship Fund, established by the Pittsburgh Foundation, offers scholarships for undergraduate students from Western Pennsylvania. The fund aims to support those studying American Politics at local institutions and pursuing internships in governmental offices. Preference is given to students residing in Allegheny County and surrounding areas. This initiative honors the legacies of James G. Fulton and J. Steele Gow, promoting civic engagement and political education since its inception.

About Us

For more than 100 years, Duquesne Light Company has provided safe and reliable electric service to communities in southwestern Pennsylvania. Today, our core values of safety, integrity, dependability, equity and community enable us to serve more than 600,000 customers in two counties, including the city of Pittsburgh. We are committed to safely powering our customers’ lives while playing a leading role in our region’s clean energy transition. Our vision is to create a larger-than-light, clean energy future for all by delivering exceptional results today and boldly harnessing opportunities for tomorrow. In doing so, we can ensure a cleaner, healthier and more equitable community for generations to come.

Charitable Giving at Duquesne Light

Our Charitable Giving Grants Program is designed to help communities most affected by the rising cost of living—especially those burdened by high energy expenses. By prioritizing funding for nonprofit organizations helping individuals and families meet their basic needs and access high quality workforce development opportunities, we aim to reduce financial strain and promote long-term economic stability for residents across our service area.

Sponsorships

Duquesne Light Company is proud to support local events that strengthen and uplift our community. To be considered for sponsorship, all requests must be submitted through our online form. Please allow 4–6 weeks for our team to review your submission. Because of this timeline, we’re typically unable to sponsor events occurring within 30 days of the request. For questions regarding sponsorships, please email sponsorships@duqlight.com.

The Juliet Lea Hillman Simonds Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations, focusing on education, visual arts, writing, and literature, primarily in Pittsburgh. The grant has a rolling application process, with no deadlines, and also considers limited contributions in other areas such as human services and environmental protection. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and public charities. This foundation does not fund individuals but may support select scholarships.

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.

The Pittsburgh and Western PA Trusts, managed through PNC Bank, support diverse projects that enhance community well-being. They prioritize initiatives that provide direct services, address community needs, and benefit underserved populations. Eligible organizations must hold 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate a commitment to measurable outcomes and financial accountability. Funding is not available for general operating costs or for-profit entities. Interested applicants are encouraged to inquire via email for further details.

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Elora's H.O.P.E Scholarship Fund

The Elora’s H.O.P.E. Scholarship Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in Special Education who plan to teach. In April 2006, Elora, a 7th grader in the North Allegheny High School, lost her life after a courageous battle with Leukemia. Though she had a variety of special needs, Elora loved 5K races. She would arrive long after everyone had crossed the finish line – but that never stopped her from encouraging others along the way. Elora brought out the best in others and Elora’s H.O.P.E. wants to continue Helping Others to Persevere and Endure.

The Social-Impact Investment Pitch Competition aims to enhance the vitality of Southwestern Pennsylvania, particularly in Pittsburgh, by fostering economic development, wildlife conservation, and community health. The Foundation invites nonprofits, public agencies, and socially-driven for-profit companies to apply for funding to implement innovative ideas that address societal challenges. Applications are open to U.S.-based organizations seeking capital and project support, with a focus on creating lasting positive change in the community.

The Edward and Dorothy Livingston Fund, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation, offers scholarships to nursing students in Allegheny County, PA. This fund specifically supports those facing educational barriers due to systemic gender inequity. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in nursing programs, demonstrate financial need, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. The fund aims to empower students who have historically faced challenges in accessing educational opportunities, promoting equity and diversity in the nursing profession.

The Colleen Holland Sundo Scholarship Fund, established in 1945 by The Pittsburgh Foundation, supports students enrolled in the Duquesne University BSN program. This scholarship aims to assist those with financial need, prioritizing residents from Allegheny, Washington, or Westmoreland counties in Pennsylvania. With a commitment to improving educational access, this fund reflects the Foundation's mission of enhancing community life through charitable giving.

The Eberly Foundation Grant focuses on supporting local students in their educational pursuits beyond high school. With a commitment to undergraduate education, the foundation provides scholarships, programmatic support, and funding for various educational initiatives at specified colleges and universities. Additionally, it plays a vital role in fostering economic development and health services in Southwestern Pennsylvania, aiming to benefit the residents of Uniontown and Fayette County.

The Vibrant Pittsburgh Mini Grants initiative, funded by Vibrant Pittsburgh and the Urban Affairs Foundation, aims to promote civic engagement among diverse communities in Pittsburgh. With a total funding pool of $50,000, this program will award $25,000 to two organizations focused on retaining diverse talent in the region. Eligible projects should foster inclusivity and collaboration, engaging various community partners to ensure a vibrant, multicultural workforce.

The POISE Community Impact Grants, offered by the Poise Foundation, aim to support Black-led nonprofit organizations in the Pittsburgh Region. Grants range from $1,000 to $5,000 and are awarded twice a year, focusing on areas such as economic development, education, entrepreneurship, and family strengthening. The foundation prioritizes applications from organizations that demonstrate a commitment to empowering the Black community and fostering self-sufficiency through innovative programming and community engagement.

The FirstEnergy Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations within FirstEnergy's service areas, aiming to enhance community quality of life, workforce development, and safety initiatives. Grants are directed towards local economic development and volunteer efforts aligned with corporate interests. However, the Foundation does not fund individuals, political activities, or certain organizations, ensuring support is focused on broad community benefits. Interested applicants should consult local FirstEnergy management before applying.

Love Your Block

Love Your Block is a City of Pittsburgh program that brings neighbors together to improve our communities by combating blight, creating assets, and building resilience, block by block.

Community organizations across Pittsburgh are invited to apply for $500 and $1000 grants, and a limited number could qualify for a $1,500 grant. These grants will function as a reimbursement.

Examples of successful projects include:

• Community garden maintenance / improvements
• Artistic Board-Ups
• Tree and flower planting
• Beautification projects involving a parcel of land owned by the City or the community group applying for the grant.

The Toy Foundation Program offers a unique opportunity for nonprofit organizations to apply for toy donations to support children in need. The application period runs from January to June, with approved applicants receiving toys by the end of the year. This initiative, part of the Toy Chest program, has positively impacted over 35 million children since 2003, promoting play as essential for emotional and educational development.

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.

The ARISE Grants, offered by the Appalachian Regional Commission, aim to drive regional economic transformation across 13 Appalachian states. With funding of up to $63.5 million for implementation grants and $10 million maximum awards, the initiative supports collaborative projects that enhance community capacity and economic growth. The program encourages innovative partnerships to strengthen local economies and achieve socioeconomic parity, benefiting over 26 million residents in the Appalachian Region.

Duquesne Light Company's Community Impact Grants (CIG) program, initiated in 2021, aims to empower grassroots organizations addressing social equity, education, and environmental justice in Allegheny and Beaver counties. Eligible nonprofits can apply for funding to support initiatives that promote racial equality, educational opportunities, and community resilience. The program prioritizes organizations led by BIPOC, women, and LGBTQ individuals, ensuring diverse leadership in community development efforts.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

The Westinghouse Charitable Giving Program aims to strengthen community ties by providing financial support in key areas such as education focused on STEM, environmental sustainability, and community safety. This program welcomes applications from eligible organizations that meet specific grant criteria, including being tax-exempt and located within 50 miles of a Westinghouse site. The initiative underscores Westinghouse's commitment to advancing education, promoting environmental stewardship, and enhancing community well-being.