Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

Oregon Humanities is offering Mini Grants for Rural Libraries, providing up to $25,000 in funding for rural libraries in Oregon to host community events. These events should align with the theme 'Fear and Belonging' and can cover various relevant topics. Eligible libraries include public, volunteer, community college, or tribal libraries located in rural areas. This initiative aims to foster dialogue and connection within communities through engaging humanities activities.

The Akron Community Foundation offers Community Fund Grants focused on Arts & Culture, aimed at enriching the community's quality of life. These grants support diverse artistic and cultural initiatives that foster inclusiveness and systemic change in Summit County. Eligible applicants include approved 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to addressing community needs through effective and sustainable programs. However, grants do not cover endowments, scholarships, or direct financial support to individuals.

About NYSERDA

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) works to promote energy efficiency, renewable energy, and emissions reduction across New York’s economy and energy system. Since our founding in 1975, NYSERDA’s mission, vision, and programs are continually evolving to improve the lives of New Yorkers. In addition to supporting clean energy and technologies, we’re working to advance equity and inclusivity, jobs and economic development, public health, and community resilience through our work. Collectively, these efforts are key to developing a cleaner, more reliable, and affordable energy system for all New Yorkers.

NYSERDA is on the front lines of the global energy transition. Our executive leadership and staff play a crucial role in accelerating climate action and efforts to secure a just and equitable transition to a clean energy economy. NYSERDA also supports other New York State regulations and statewide energy planning for a clean energy future.

NYSERDA works with stakeholders across New York, including residents, businesses, developers, community leaders, local government officials, universities, utility representatives, investors, and entrepreneurs.

Innovation for Affordable Building Electrification (PON 6162)

Description

This funding targets the commercialization of affordable innovative solutions that can rapidly scale to enable electrification, reduce peak loads, and improve efficiency of the building stock in New York. NYSERDA seeks projects at committed New York State site(s) that address one of the following Innovation Topic Areas:

• Energy Efficiency
• Electrification
• Load Management

NYSERDA has no predefined funding amount or number of awards based on topic area. Eligible solutions must show strong potential to advance one or more aspects of NYSERDA’s core mission in the buildings sector in New York State through reducing GHG emissions, improving energy efficiency, increasing affordability, and/or resiliency in existing buildings in the residential, multifamily, and small/medium commercial market.

The Simons Foundation's Scientific Software Research Faculty Award supports faculty positions focusing on scientific software development in mathematics and physics. It aims to enhance research capabilities by providing five years of salary support and a $50,000 yearly research allowance. Awardees must have a Ph.D. and demonstrate leadership in scientific software. This initiative addresses the career limitations faced by software experts and encourages applications from underrepresented groups.

The Kentucky Arts Partnership Grant provides vital operating support to arts organizations in Kentucky, ensuring that residents have access to year-round arts programming. This grant is aimed at independent arts groups and local arts agencies, helping to foster strong community engagement and cultural diversity. Organizations must demonstrate fiscal responsibility and maintain IRS tax-exempt status to qualify. This initiative not only enhances art participation but also strengthens the overall arts delivery system across the state.

About Us

What We Do

The Division of Libraries, Archives and Museums offers library and information service to state agencies and the Legislature, provides for the orderly management of current state records, preserves non-current public records of permanent value for study and research, and operates the state museums.

Grants for Alaska Libraries and Schools

The Alaska State Library helps public and school libraries acquire financial assistance.

Interlibrary Cooperation Grant

Each year, the Alaska State Library awards Interlibrary Cooperation (ILC) Grants funds for proposals with a direct impact on library users. Libraries of all types (academic, public, school, and special) are encouraged to submit proposals. 

Interlibrary Cooperation Grants are competitive and project-oriented. A grant review committee will evaluate each proposal and score it according to a rubric. Proposals with significant statewide impact on the sharing of resources; cooperative services with another library; innovative programs for the delivery of library services; or training or other programs that strengthen library services, will be more competitive.

Grantees must demonstrate financial commitment to providing ongoing library services once the project is finished. ILC grants cannot be written to support ongoing operational costs, replace primary funding sources, or fund activities that are the primary responsibility of the applicant library

The Bread & Roses Opportunity Fund Grant supports grassroots initiatives aimed at advancing social, racial, and economic justice in the Philadelphia area. Since its inception in 1977, the fund has provided over $17 million to local organizations committed to collective action and systemic change. Grants are available for special projects or urgent needs, focusing on community organizing rather than social services, and prioritize leadership from within affected communities.

The Cora Du Bois Fellowship, offered by the Cora Du Bois Charitable Trust and Harvard University's Tozzer Library, supports advanced Ph.D. students who have completed all requirements except their dissertation. This fellowship enhances research through access to the Tozzer Library's resources. It is open to both Harvard and non-Harvard students in Anthropology or related fields, providing funding for two, six, or twelve months, with the expectation that fellows will complete their dissertation by the end of the funding period.

The Missouri Arts Council offers Express Grants to support a variety of artistic projects aimed at enhancing community engagement and economic growth through the arts. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, allowing organizations to secure funding for performances, festivals, and educational initiatives. With a commitment to broadening access to the arts, the Council encourages early submissions, especially as funding is limited. This initiative aims to foster creativity and cultural enrichment across Missouri.

The HortScholar Program offers students in horticulture an immersive experience at Cultivate'25, connecting them with industry leaders and trends. Participants will gain hands-on experience, network, and explore job opportunities while receiving mentorship and an all-access pass to the event. With complimentary lodging and meals, this program is designed to advance careers in horticulture and expand horizons for future professionals.

The Winston-Salem Foundation, established in 1919, offers Animal Welfare Grants to support organizations dedicated to animal welfare in Forsyth County, North Carolina. With grants up to $25,000, the foundation aims to enhance the quality of life for animals and the community. As the first foundation of its kind in North Carolina, it has a rich history of collaboration to improve local welfare initiatives. This funding opportunity encourages impactful projects that benefit animal welfare.

DICK'S Sporting Goods offers a Sponsorships & Donations Program aimed at supporting youth sports leagues and organizations. They prioritize requests that promote community engagement and character development through sports. Eligible organizations must operate in areas with a DICK'S store and adhere to anti-discrimination policies. The program evaluates requests monthly, with sponsorships up to $25,000 and donations up to $250. Support may include gift certificates or coupons for teams and events, fostering an inclusive sports culture.

The Burchinal Family Endowment Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Fayette County, is dedicated to supporting health and medical care charities for residents of Fayette County. With a focus on addressing local charitable needs, the fund awards $5,000 grants to eligible organizations. The Foundation plays a key role in connecting donors with impactful causes, ensuring ethical practices and high standards in philanthropy, thereby enhancing the community's quality of life.

The Arthur C. Cope Postdoctoral Fellowship, awarded by the American Chemical Society, recognizes outstanding achievements in organic chemistry. This two-year fellowship provides $85,000 annually to early-career researchers, promoting innovative research in sustainable organic chemistry. Candidates, nominated by their mentors, must demonstrate excellence and a commitment to inclusivity in research. The fellowship encourages participation in ACS activities, fostering career development and collaboration within the scientific community.

Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives

We envision a future in which Kentuckians value the importance of libraries and Kentucky government records and we are recognized for:

• Innovative and creative approaches for preserving and providing access to government records;
• Enabling libraries to be essential to their communities;
• Being a va​lued partner in the educational and economic development of the Commonwealth.

Conferences Grant

Grant funds will support Kentucky public library staff in attending library and job-related conferences that foster professional growth, keep them current on national trends, and equip them to implement new services and technologies that benefit their communities. The application will remain open until grant funds are exhausted.

This grant aligns with KDLA's five-year strategic plan to enhance Institutional Capacity to “enhance the knowledge and skills of public library and archival staff through professional development and training opportunities.

The Texas Academy of Science offers the Annual Student Research Award Competition, providing financial support to students in three categories: PhD, M.S., and B.S./B.A. Awards are $2,000 for first place, $1,500 for second, and $1,000 for third. Eligibility includes membership in the Texas Academy and conducting independent research projects in math, science, or science education. Out-of-state students conducting research in Texas are also eligible. Literature reviews are not accepted.

Creative Places Arts Facilities (CPAF) - Enhancement Grants

The Creative Places Arts Facilities (CPAF) program assists arts organizations in building, renovating, restoring, or enhancing facilities used for arts activities that benefit Alabamians.

Enhancement grants offer funding for equipment purchases and upgrades that will improve how cultural assets and works of art are presented, produced, exhibited, and/or preserved (lighting, sounds, seating, etc.). Applicants may request up to $50,000. No required match of applicant-funded expense

The Ed Leo Scholarship supports graduating members of the Cedar Falls High School First Robotics Competition Team who meet specific criteria. If the team disbands, the fund will assist Cedar Falls High School students engaged in STEM activities or provide grants for personal finance education. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of B+ and a composite ACT score of 26, demonstrating leadership, teamwork, and a commitment to academic excellence.

Creative Places Arts Facilities (CPAF) - Construction Grants

The Creative Places Arts Facilities (CPAF) program assists arts organizations in building, renovating, restoring, or enhancing facilities used for arts activities that benefit Alabamians.

Construction grants fund the building of a new facility, substantial renovations of an existing facility, or significant repairs/modifications of existing facilities. Applicants may request up to $100,000; these grants require applicant-funded expenses equal to, or greater than, the amount requested.

About Virginia Energy

Virginia Energy is the state agency charged with advancing Virginia's energy, mining, and mineral policies and initiatives. Our mission is to lead the Commonwealth to a safe, reliable and responsible energy future by:

• Providing for safe and environmentally sound stewardship of Virginia's mineral and energy resources;
• Encouraging economic development through the sound stewardship of Virginia's energy, mineral, land and water resources; and
• Successfully pursuing federal funding and implement the Virginia Energy Plan to ensure the Commonwealth has abundant, reliable, affordable and increasingly clean energy.

Southwest Virginia Hydrogen Hub

The Virginia Department of Energy is launching a program to encourage hydrogen production in the Southwest Virginia (SWVA) region and its use across the Commonwealth. The primary objective of this initiative is to tackle energy issues critical to hydrogen energy while promoting economic development in SWVA.

The program invites proposals from entities operating in the Southwest region of the Commonwealth.

Program Overview

Virginia Energy invites proposals for establishing planning grants of $250,000 each to support the potential for the development of the hydrogen production industry in the Southwestern Virginia region. The effects of the downturn of the coal industry have severely impacted the low-income and disadvantaged communities of the coalfields. Southwest Virginia is uniquely positioned to take advantage of this opportunity. The repurposing of previously mined land and development of energy-ready industrial sites with access to abundant water, natural gas, and on-site rail are ideal for creating a hydrogen production hub in the region.

This program represents a significant step toward a cleaner and more sustainable future for the citizens of the commonwealth, particularly those that have been historically underserved. 

The Roberts Foundation - Excellence in the Arts Grant supports arts organizations in Hartford County, emphasizing the importance of artistic endeavors for community vitality. With a focus on funding exceptional aesthetic experiences, the foundation prioritizes nonprofits in key cities while encouraging visual artist compensation. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and limited to one application per year, ensuring the cultural heritage of Hartford thrives for generations to come.

The Peru Arts and Culture Fund Grant, established by Maggie Snyder McConnell through the Northern Indiana Community Foundation, supports organizations and projects that promote the arts in Miami County. This initiative aims to inspire creativity and cultural engagement within the community, contributing to the growth of local artistic endeavors and enhancing the cultural landscape of the region.

About RE-VEEP

With federal funds from the United States Department of Energy and using the VEEP framework, AEA will execute RE-VEEP

Renewable Energy-Village Energy Efficiency Program (RE-VEEP)

The Renewable Energy-Village Energy Efficiency Program (RE-VEEP) expands on the Alaska Energy Authority’s (AEA) Village Energy Efficiency Program (VEEP), which was established to reduce per capita consumption through energy efficiency. RE-VEEP will award grants to eligible entities within Alaska to finance building-scale renewable energy, energy efficiency, and conservation projects in public buildings and facilities located in rural Alaska. Through these types of projects, communities can reduce their energy consumption and costs.

About the IAC

The IAC Mission

The mission of the Interagency Commission on School Construction is to achieve a safe, healthy, and educationally sufficient learning environment for every child attending a public school in Maryland. Our vision is a fiscally sustainable statewide portfolio of Pre-K-12 school facilities that will remain educationally sufficient for current and future generations of students and teachers.

Capital Improvement Program

The CIP is the State’s largest school construction program, averaging at least $280 million per year in recent years. CIP funding can be used for major new, renewal, or replacement projects as well as for addition projects or capital maintenance projects (systemic renovations). 

The CIP includes supplemental funding from the Significant Enrollment Growth and Relocatable Classroom (EGRC) Capital Grant Program.

The program is governed by Title 5, Subtitle 3 of the Education Article, Annotated Code of Maryland and regulations promulgated by the IAC in the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR).

The Peru State College Scholarship, managed by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides financial support to Beatrice High School graduating seniors who rank in the upper half of their class. This scholarship covers half of the tuition costs at Peru State College, aimed at assisting deserving students in pursuing higher education. The Foundation, established in 1987, awards over $55,000 annually in scholarships to support local students' educational endeavors.

The JMAC Access Grant Program, supported by the Greater Worcester Community Foundation and Barr Foundation, offers vital resources to artists and organizations for showcasing their projects at the Jean McDonough Arts Center. This initiative aims to empower BIPOC and underserved artists in Worcester by funding project development and implementation costs. Through a structured application process, selected participants can secure financial assistance to present their work, ensuring a vibrant cultural landscape in Central Massachusetts.

Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development

The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) works every day to ensure Pennsylvania is a premier state to do business, where we adopt and innovate the next generation of breakthroughs in a diverse mix of industry clusters, where we cultivate a resilient economy, and where we invest in our people and our communities to build a stronger Pennsylvania that works for all the residents, workers, businesses, and entrepreneurs that call our Commonwealth home.

Local Share Account (LSA) – Statewide

The PA Race Horse Development and Gaming Act (Act 2004-71), as amended, provides for the distribution of gaming revenues through the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) to support projects in the public interest within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.