Best Potter County Grants for Nonprofits in Pennsylvania

Catholic Foundation of Northwest PA

The Catholic Foundation provides a permanent and secure funding stream to strengthen and grow the Church’s mission and ministries in Northwest Pennsylvania by

Helping donors establish permanent charitable funds to create long-lasting support for the causes they care about.

Offering parishes, schools and other Catholic organizations cost-effective, socially responsible investment management to keep endowment assets growing.

We identify ways to better support our Catholic mission and ministries, choose socially responsible investments that align with our core Catholic ideals, steward donors’ charitable gifts of any size, honor donor intent, distribute funds to sustain the Catholic church, and assist Catholic parishes, schools and ministries in meeting their long-term financial needs.

Faith Formation Grant

Grants are available for parish and/or diocesan-based parish faith formation projects that focus on:

• Projects that promote life-long faith formation activities
• Projects that welcome absentee and/or non-Catholics into the church
• Projects that promote faith formation through technology
• Projects that provide spiritual support to families, singles, youth and young adults

Requirements

• Pastor or diocesan office supervisor (if not the applicant) must be aware of the grant request and have given their approval by signing the project endorsement form included in the application.
• Parishes or diocesan offices may only submit one Faith Formation Grant application per year. If more than one application per parish/diocesan department is submitted, all will be rejected.
• Funds are released to the parish or diocese only with an executed grant agreement on file at the Foundation.
• A follow up grant report from the grantee is required for every grant awarded by the Foundation.

Catholic Foundation of Northwest PA

The Catholic Foundation provides a permanent and secure funding stream to strengthen and grow the Church’s mission and ministries in Northwest Pennsylvania by

Helping donors establish permanent charitable funds to create long-lasting support for the causes they care about.

Offering parishes, schools and other Catholic organizations cost-effective, socially responsible investment management to keep endowment assets growing.

We identify ways to better support our Catholic mission and ministries, choose socially responsible investments that align with our core Catholic ideals, steward donors’ charitable gifts of any size, honor donor intent, distribute funds to sustain the Catholic church, and assist Catholic parishes, schools and ministries in meeting their long-term financial needs.

Education Grant

Grants are available for funding towards religious education projects and ministry training/spiritual formation opportunities that benefit people within the 13 counties of the Diocese of Erie. Projects must fit at least one of the following four categories:

• Religious education and faith formation projects
• Technology for parish faith formation programs and for Catholic schools (NOTE: Two (2) bids/proposals are required when applying for technology funding in excess of $5,000).
• Lay ministry education, training and worship formation including education toward obtaining professional ministry certifications, attending workshops, conferences, ministry formation and spiritual formation opportunities (NOTE: If multiple people from your organization are seeking funding to attend a ministry opportunity, please submit one application for the entire group).
• Diocesan-wide scholarship and tuition-assistance programs (NOTE: Applicants limited to the Catholic Schools Office of the Diocese of Erie.)

Requirements

• Pastor, school principal/president, or diocesan office supervisor must be aware of the grant request and give their approval by signing the project endorsement form included in the application.
• Funds are released to the parish, school or diocese only with an executed grant agreement on file at the Foundation.
• A follow up grant report from the grantee is required for every grant awarded by the Foundation.

The CFNWPA Catholic Social Ministry Grant supports projects that align with Catholic social teachings and serve the 13 counties of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Erie. Funding is available for initiatives that provide counseling services, marriage support, community building, elderly care, and emergency services for the poor. Eligible organizations include Catholic nonprofits and parishes. The grant prioritizes projects that demonstrate sustainability and community impact, fostering long-term support for vital ministries.

Nonprofits and public entities in Potter County, Pennsylvania working on multi-state economic, workforce, community development, or tourism projects across Appalachia can apply for Appalachian Regional Commission’s ARISE grants; awards up to US $10,000,000 for planning or implementation. Projects must involve collaboration across eligible Appalachian counties in at least two states.

Current or recent nonprofits funded by Regional Foundation facing urgent, unforeseen organizational or community crises in Potter County, Pennsylvania can seek short-term responsive support. With a mission to back disaster relief and humanitarian responses, Regional Foundation provides partners with up to US $25,000 for time-sensitive tactical or strategic needs stemming from emergencies or critical policy or operational disruptions.

Nonprofit organizations and public agencies in Potter County, Pennsylvania can seek funding for critical infrastructure, public transportation, and workforce or business development projects that advance local economic growth. With a mission to strengthen Appalachia’s economy, Appalachian Regional Commission provides Appalachian communities with flexible, bottom-up Area Development investments across its multi-state region.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

The Joe DeMott Port Allegany Community Development Fund, managed by the McKean County Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Board Member Joe DeMott. This fund supports 501c3 organizations, schools, and municipalities by funding projects that enhance community development, education, and the arts within the Port Allegany School District. With a maximum grant of $1400, the fund aims to create lasting positive impacts in the community.

Nonprofits and conservation partners restoring forests, rivers, and streams in Potter County, Pennsylvania can seek US $75,000 - US $500,000 for habitat projects that benefit native birds and aquatic species. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Central Appalachia Habitat Stewardship Program funds voluntary forest management, riparian restoration, barrier removal, and landowner engagement across eligible Central Appalachian counties.

Potter County, Pennsylvania environmental and water-focused organizations can access funding through Great Lakes Protection Fund for projects that deliver measurable, regionally significant improvements to the Great Lakes ecosystem. Eligible teams may include nonprofits, universities, government agencies, businesses, and individuals, provided their collaborative, science-based projects drive basin-wide change benefiting the Great Lakes, including Potter County’s portion of the watershed.

About National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) works with partners to foster sustainable and impactful conservation solutions so that people and nature thrive together. Chartered by Congress in 1984, NFWF has grown to become the nation’s largest conservation foundation. Since its founding, NFWF has funded more than 23,900 projects that have generated a total conservation impact of more than $12 billion.About Sustain Our Great Lakes Program

Sustain Our Great Lakes is a public–private partnership designed to sustain, restore and protect fish, wildlife and habitat in the basin by leveraging funding, building conservation capacity, and focusing partners and resources toward key ecological issues. The program achieves this mission, in part, by awarding grants for on-the-ground habitat restoration and enhancement.Funding priorities for this program include:

• Habitat Restoration to Conserve Species and Improve Water Quality
• Expand and Maintain Nature-Based Solutions in Great Lakes Communities
• Invasive Species Control to Protect and Enhance Restored Habitat
• Activate Restored Habitats and Natural Areas

The Central Pennsylvania Food Bank's Youth Programs address child hunger, with initiatives like School Pantries, Kids Cafés, BackPack programs, and Summer Meals. These programs provide nutritious food to food-insecure children and families, ensuring they have access to healthy meals during school breaks and throughout the year. With over 1.2 million pounds of food distributed annually, these efforts support thousands of households, fostering both nutritional and educational development for children in central Pennsylvania.

The Great Lakes Foundation Grant supports projects aimed at preserving wilderness areas and promoting marine safety in the Great Lakes region. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the foundation has awarded over $318,212 since its inception in 1993. Grants have funded various initiatives, including breakwater construction and academic research, to enhance appreciation and safety of the marine environment for both members and the general public.

Educational and health-focused 501(c)(3) public charities, academic institutions, and government entities in Potter County, Pennsylvania can receive support to expand access to abortion and contraception. The Educational Foundation of America funds litigation, direct support for providers, abortion funds, and communications and advocacy efforts within its broader Appalachian-focused Reproductive Health & Justice program.

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.

State agencies or their designees implementing approved aquatic invasive species management plans in Great Lakes states can apply for US $100,000 - US $600,000 to support prevention and control projects, including work in Potter County, Pennsylvania. Grants from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service help advance invasive species control, wildlife management, and fish conservation under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative.

Fath-Greene Animal Welfare Fund

The Fund supports nonprofit organizations with programs and projects that support animal welfare in the immediate vicinity of Coudersport and Potter County, and surrounding areas.

Available to Grant

$31,800

What We Do

Since our creation by Congress in 1984, NFWF has grown to become the nation’s largest private conservation foundation. We work with both the public and private sectors to protect and restore our nation’s fish, wildlife, plants and habitats for current and future generations.

NFWF supports conservation efforts across all 50 states and U.S. territories. Since our founding, we've funded over 23,300 rigorously evaluated projects, awarded to both large environmental organizations and small local initiatives. We do not fund advocacy or litigation, and do not conduct membership campaigns. Instead, we focus on achieving results and building a better future for our world.

Chesapeake Bay Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction Grants

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the federal-state Chesapeake Bay Program (CBP) partnership, is soliciting pre-proposals through the Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction (INSR) Grants program to improve water quality and reduce nutrient and sediment pollution to the Chesapeake Bay and its tributary rivers and streams. Major funding for the INSR Grants program is provided by EPA, with other important contributions from Altria Group, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and the U.S. Forest Service. 

The Chesapeake Bay Small Watershed Grants, offered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the EPA, aim to enhance water quality and restore vital habitats in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Funding is available through two programs: SWG Implementation grants for direct on-the-ground actions, and SWG Planning and Technical Assistance grants to support community-based efforts. Projects must align with specific program priorities to qualify for funding.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Potter County, Pennsylvania, working in arts, education, or family and human services can seek US $500 - US $3,000 to support community programs. Dermody Properties Foundation prioritizes children, the elderly, people with disabilities, those facing homelessness, substance abuse, and related youth and family services within 30 miles of its current projects.

The Chesapeake Bay Green Streets, Green Jobs, Green Towns (G3) Grant Program, funded by the EPA and Chesapeake Bay Trust, supports innovative green infrastructure projects enhancing community livability. With funding opportunities ranging from conceptual plans to full project implementation, this program aims to reduce stormwater runoff, improve urban green spaces, and boost local water health within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Eligible locations include parts of Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, as well as New York.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving Potter County, Pennsylvania can seek US $500 - US $5,000 to enhance local quality of life through community programs and projects. Grants from Charles B. Degenstein Foundation help support initiatives in education, health, social services, environmental conservation, arts and culture, civic affairs, beautification, and local economic or business development within its regional service area.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Potter County, Pennsylvania and surrounding eligible counties can seek funding for education, community and recreation, health and human services, and arts and culture projects or programs. George and Margaret Mee Charitable Foundation offers grants of more than US $1,000, including for capital projects, well-established programs, start-up funds, and new initiatives.

The F26AS00084 Aquatic Invasive Species Grants to Great Lakes Tribes, funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support the development and implementation of Tribal Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plans. Eligible Great Lakes tribes can apply for competitive grants to address invasive species issues within the Great Lakes Basin, including outreach and prevention efforts. This initiative focuses on early detection and control, significantly contributing to the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem.

The Highmark Foundation provides high-impact grants aimed at enhancing community health in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. It supports evidence-based programs that address critical health issues, including chronic diseases, family health, and access to care. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate sustainable solutions and collaboration with community partners. By funding diverse health-related projects, it aims to improve the well-being of underserved populations, ensuring that vital health interventions reach those in need.

Nonprofit and conservation partnerships restoring and connecting fish and wildlife habitat in Potter County, Pennsylvania can seek funding to support collaborative, landscape-scale projects. National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Chesapeake WILD Collaborative Conservation track offers up to US $200,000 to improve habitat condition and connectivity for at-risk and federally listed species within the Chesapeake watershed.

The Michigan Botanical Foundation Grant supports research and educational initiatives that enhance the understanding and preservation of Michigan's flora. Grants are available for projects involving rare species, environmental awareness, and educational programs. The foundation welcomes applications from individuals and organizations that align with its goals. Grant amounts typically range from $100 to $1,500, with preference given to projects based in Michigan or the Great Lakes region. Funding decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.