Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

The Northern Lowcountry Grants: Giving Back to Berkeley County Fund, established in 2008 by the Coastal Community Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life for residents in Berkeley County, South Carolina. This fund supports nonprofits across various fields, encouraging applications for general operating support. The foundation, active since 1974, is the largest community foundation in the state, managing over 700 funds and distributing millions in grants and scholarships each year.

Office of Accounts and Control

The primary mission of the Office of Accounts and Control is to promote the financial integrity and accountability of state government through sound administrative and accounting controls and procedures.

State of Rhode Island Designated Grants

State Designated Grants are funded through the state budget. In 2016, the Community Service Grant program was eliminated and replaced in favor of state agency-administered itemized budget appropriations and competitive grants. The Department of Administration’s Office of Accounts and Control has developed a standard payment policy and uniform set of procedures that will enhance the transparency and accountability of our state grant-funding system, while also taking into account best practices from across state and federal entities.

Designated Grants are funded each fiscal year though the Rhode Island State Budget. State Agencies are awarded specific allocations of funding, stated in the budget. If your organization is awarded funds from a State Agency, you will be contacted by said State Agency with information about your award and instructions on how to submit an application.

The Junior Fellowship at Hanse-Wissenschaftskolleg provides early career researchers with the opportunity to engage in focused research while enjoying a vibrant community. With a duration of 3-10 months, fellows receive a stipend of up to 2,000 EUR per month. Applications are accepted from those who have completed their doctoral degree within the last five years and have not worked in the region for more than six months in the past three years. Collaboration with local institutions is encouraged.

The Proposal Development Award supports Michigan-based nonprofits by providing funding to hire grant writers for health-related grant applications. This initiative helps organizations apply for funding from various sources, including the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Foundation and local health grants. The award is designed for nonprofits lacking the capacity to develop proposals independently, ensuring they can compete for essential health funding.

The Nagel Foundation Grant supports non-profits in southwest Idaho by providing financial assistance to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations. The Foundation has a selective grant-making process, focusing on community enrichment through education and service. It does not fund political campaigns, projects outside southwest Idaho, or grants to individuals. This targeted approach ensures that funds are allocated effectively to benefit the local community.

Coast Central Credit Union

As a credit union with a People Helping People approach, we reinvest in you, local organizations, small businesses, and our CCCU family. It’s how we work toward bringing community together.

Community Investment Grant

With thanks to our members, we award $300,000 in grants annually to deserving organizations.

Our Community Investment Program provides grants to local non-profit organizations twice per year. An employee committee reviews all applications and then makes recommendations to our Board of Directors who approves grant recipients.

The Penn Treaty Special Services District (PTSSD) offers sponsorships aimed at empowering community organizations to develop projects that benefit local residents. Applications for event sponsorships must be submitted at least 30 days in advance, with a recommendation to submit 60 days prior for timely consideration. The Board meets monthly from September to June, accommodating up to five requests per meeting. Late applications may be accepted with a valid explanation, ensuring continued support for community initiatives.

The Honoring the Best in the Construction Community initiative celebrates outstanding individuals in the construction field, such as Craft Instructor of the Year, who exemplify creativity and dedication to education. Award recipients gain national recognition and a $10,000 cash prize, promoting construction as a rewarding career while emphasizing safety and lifelong learning. This prestigious award is part of the ABC Construction Workforce Awards, which highlights the importance of quality instruction in the industry.

Blue Mountain Community Foundation

Blue Mountain Community Foundation (BMCF) started in 1984 based on the idea that the area needed a place for donors who cared about the community to make long-term charitable investments. A group of 36 local leaders and citizens, under the guidance of Pete Peery and John Reese, met and resolved to form a community foundation. Too many endowment gifts from people who cared deeply about their communities were lost to local control for lack of a community foundation. Since 1984, BMCF has received and grown assets to exceed $115 million in more than 440 charitable funds which benefit the entire community!

Milton-Freewater, Athena, Weston Community Grants 

Funding Focus: General operating support

The CBT Land Acquisition Grants program supports local governments, First Nations, and non-profits in acquiring land and infrastructure for public benefit. The Trust prioritizes projects demonstrating community support and long-term benefits. Funding covers up to 60% of acquisition costs, with a maximum of $750,000 per project. Eligible applicants must show a history of successful program delivery and stable funding. Ineligible entities include individuals and private businesses. This initiative aims to enhance social, economic, and environmental well-being in the Columbia Basin.

Blue Mountain Community Foundation

Blue Mountain Community Foundation (BMCF) started in 1984 based on the idea that the area needed a place for donors who cared about the community to make long-term charitable investments. A group of 36 local leaders and citizens, under the guidance of Pete Peery and John Reese, met and resolved to form a community foundation. Too many endowment gifts from people who cared deeply about their communities were lost to local control for lack of a community foundation. Since 1984, BMCF has received and grown assets to exceed $115 million in more than 440 charitable funds which benefit the entire community!

Walla Walla County Community Grants

Funding Focus: General operating support

La Crosse Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1930, La Crosse Area Community Foundation is one of Wisconsin’s earliest community foundations. For more than 90 years, we have helped individuals, families, businesses, and professional advisors make meaningful charitable gifts that stay local and grow over time.

Today, we steward hundreds of endowed and non-endowed funds, award grants and scholarships each year, and serve as a trusted convener for people who care about strengthening the greater La Crosse community.ty.

Standard Grants Program

Standard grants are part of our historic competitive grants program to be responsive to the needs of nonprofit organizations serving La Crosse County. La Crosse Area Community Foundation has allocated grant dollars this year specifically for nonprofits seeking standard grants for result-oriented projects and programs that address a proven community need or priority aimed at making La Crosse County a better place now and for future generations. 

All grant requests that represent a portion of a capital campaign will be eligible for a maximum of $25,000. See RFP details here.

The New Lebanon Arts and Humanities Fund, managed by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, aims to enrich the arts and humanities experiences for students and teachers in the New Lebanon School District. Grants ranging from $100 to $4,000 support diverse projects like extracurricular activities, visiting speakers, and professional development. The fund encourages community involvement while maintaining a strict non-discrimination policy. Applications are welcomed from all community members, fostering creativity and excellence in education.

The Allied Arts and Humanities Grant, provided by the Bartlesville Community Foundation, aims to bolster cultural organizations in the greater Bartlesville area. This funding opportunity is open to 501(c)(3) nonprofits offering arts and humanities programming, particularly encouraging innovative projects that reach underserved communities. With a focus on sustainable community growth, the grant supports both program-specific and general operational needs, ensuring a vibrant cultural landscape for all residents.

The Energy Efficiency Investment Fund (EIFF) offers grants for energy assessments and improvements in non-residential facilities in Delaware. With a focus on energy efficiency, the program supports businesses in upgrading to more efficient systems. Grants cover up to 60% of project costs, with limits of $250,000 per year per facility. Eligible projects must exceed minimum energy code requirements, fostering sustainability and reducing operational costs in the community.

The Energy Efficiency Investment Fund (EIFF) offers grants for Combined Heat and Power (CHP) projects in Delaware, supporting non-residential facilities in enhancing energy efficiency. Grant funding can cover up to 60% of project costs, with a maximum award of $250,000 per address annually. Eligible projects must demonstrate energy savings and sustainability, with a focus on supporting minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses, small businesses, and non-profits. Pre-approval is encouraged to secure funding.

The CCCF General Operating Support Grants provide multi-year, unrestricted funding to eligible nonprofits, enabling them to enhance their operational capacity and better serve historically under-invested communities. With a grant amount of $30,000, distributed as $10,000 per year for up to three years, nonprofits can utilize the funds for various operational needs. Organizations must meet specific eligibility criteria, including a budget under $450,000 and a physical presence in the CCCF's service area.

The Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation provides Operations Grants to support arts and humanities organizations in Central Indiana. These grants, ranging from $1,000 to $75,000, aim to help smaller organizations fulfill their core missions. First-time applicants must submit a Letter of Intent, while previous recipients are exempt. Successful proposals demonstrate effective mission execution, leadership, and measurable outcomes to complement other funding sources.

The William & Helen Doyle/Exchange Club Fund Community Service Award Grant, offered by the Sturgis Area Community Foundation, supports charitable and educational initiatives in the Sturgis area. This grant aims to enhance the quality of life by funding projects in various sectors, including arts, education, and health. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities. One competitive grant cycle is held annually, promoting community development and engagement.

Northern New York Community Foundation

Since 1929, the Northern New York Community Foundation has invested in improving and enriching the quality of life for all in communities across Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties. Its commitment to donors helps individuals achieve their charitable objectives now and for generations to come by preserving and honoring legacies of community philanthropy while inspiring others.

The Community Foundation is a resource for local charitable organizations, donors, professional advisors and nonprofit organizations. It also works to bring people together at its permanent home in the Northern New York Philanthropy Center to discuss challenges our communities face and find creative solutions that strengthen the region and make it a great place to live, work, and play.

Micro-Grant Program

The Northern New York Community Foundation's Micro-Grant Program provides support to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations for projects that align with the Foundation's mission and demonstrate clear community benefit.

The Ohio Valley Jaycees Charitable Fund Grant, administered by the Community Foundation for the Ohio Valley, supports local charitable organizations in Ohio and West Virginia. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt and provide services in specific counties. The fund emphasizes community improvement and accepts one application per cycle, ensuring fair distribution. Note that grants are not available for individuals or for-profit entities, and applications must follow strict submission guidelines.

The Stevens Family Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) charities in Caldwell County, North Carolina, focusing on community services and the arts. Applications are accepted primarily via email, with a preference for one request per year. Notably, grants are exclusive to charitable organizations, and must not involve political lobbying or discrimination. This foundation aims to benefit the broader community, ensuring that grants are awarded fairly and without preference for previous applicants.

Rotary Club of San Jose

The Rotary Club of San Jose is the largest, most active and well-known service organization in the community. We are a leadership organization working together to make a difference. Our members include local business, nonprofit, professional and civic leaders. We form lasting friendships through our shared Rotary experiences including weekly meetings with interesting speakers, committee meetings and projects, social events and group service projects within our community and internationally.

Community Grants

• The primary purpose of the Rotary Club of San Jose Foundation Community Grants is to assist nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of San Jose with grants up to $15,000 for specific, tangible and identifiable capital purchases. Recent examples include grants to purchase a commercial oven, refrigerator, computers (including peripherals), streaming equipment, and cameras.

• Grants up to $15,000 may also be made for small facility improvement projects of under $30,000 total. Recent examples include linoleum flooring, electrical upgrades, carpet and fences. The intent is to provide a grant that will serve the grantee for many years.

The Basil L. King Scholarship Foundation offers two-year scholarships to St. Lucie County residents pursuing careers in health sciences. Established in 1978, the Foundation supports students with financial needs and encourages local talent to return to the Treasure Coast after graduation. To qualify, applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be accepted into a Health Science program. Awards are determined annually, ensuring support for future healthcare professionals.

Belle Plaine Community Foundation (BPCF) creates a stronger future for our area by building endowments, providing informed leadership and connecting donors to the critical needs of the region.Lanore Bishop left a legacy to the Belle Plaine and Mulvane communities. With her gift to the Belle Plaine Community Foundation, Mrs. Bishop insured that students in the Belle Plaine and Mulvane communities studying to become teachers would be able to apply and receive scholarships from the Lanore Bishop Scholarship Fund.

In addition, a large number of youth projects in the Belle Plaine and Mulvane communities are provided grants funded from Lanore Bishop's Youth Grants.

The Hirschfeld Family Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations in Nebraska, focusing on projects that aid disadvantaged communities. Established in 1993, the foundation prefers time-limited requests over ongoing budgetary support. Priority is given to local organizations in Central and Western Nebraska that demonstrate community involvement and efficient operations. Grants are available for projects that align with the foundation's mission to promote well-being and make a meaningful difference.

The Do Something Great Awards, presented by the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation, recognize extraordinary individuals who have significantly impacted Macon County through their dedication and service. This award, specifically honoring the Ray Batman Nonprofit Professional of the Year, celebrates professionals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to community support, particularly during challenging times like the pandemic. Renamed in memory of Ray Batman, a revered community leader, the award continues to inspire others to contribute to societal betterment.