Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

About U

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5408 - IPR Aquifer Geochemistry Forum

Grant Information

Facilitate information exchange to address key knowledge gaps in aquifer storage and recovery by synthesizing practical insights on groundwater geochemistry impacts, mitigation measures, and field-scale challenges.

The Pecos Watershed Conservation Initiative Grant, funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, aims to restore and sustain healthy rivers and grasslands in the Pecos watershed across New Mexico and Texas. With $2.5 million available, this initiative supports voluntary conservation projects focused on habitat restoration, species intervention, and increasing baseline species information. Key partners include the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and major corporations, highlighting a collaborative effort for environmental conservation.

Project Bread's School Breakfast Grant Program aims to ensure that all students in Massachusetts have access to nutritious meals through innovative breakfast solutions. By starting or expanding programs like Breakfast After the Bell, schools can significantly increase breakfast participation. The program provides essential support and resources to help schools assess their needs and implement effective strategies for enhancing breakfast accessibility, ultimately fostering a healthier school community.

The JRCT: Peace and Security Grant Programme, from the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust, focuses on funding initiatives that address the root causes of conflict and injustice. The Trust emphasizes values of equality, human rights, and environmental sustainability, advocating for non-violent approaches and participatory governance. Its funding priorities include challenging militarism, promoting transparency in counter-terrorism, and supporting innovative solutions to the dual impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and systemic racism, primarily aimed at creating lasting societal change.

The Chain of Checks Grant, established in 1986 by Barry Lee, has raised nearly $2 million to support various nonprofits in the community. Administered by the Community Foundation of the Northern Shenandoah Valley, it primarily funds organizations with 501(c)(3) status serving Winchester and surrounding counties. Grants typically range from $3,000 to $5,000, focusing on projects addressing physical and mental health, as well as basic human needs like food and shelter, while ensuring no discrimination occurs.

The Movement Focus Area Grant by the Quimby Family Foundation supports Maine-based nonprofits dedicated to advancing Human Wholeness through movement and nourishment. Grants range from $2,500 to $25,000, with a focus on fostering connections between people and nature. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate community involvement. This grant aims to create equitable access to outdoor experiences and promote health and well-being through active engagement with nature.

MassDOT Complete Streets Funding Program

The MassDOT Complete Streets Funding Program provides Massachusetts municipalities with tools and financial support to address gaps in their local transportation networks. A “Complete Street” is one that provides safe and accessible options for all travel modes—including walking, biking, transit, and vehicles—for people of all ages and abilities.  

When launched in 2016, the program utilized a three-tiered system to incentivize long-term change through the adoption of local Complete Streets Policies (Tier 1), Prioritization Plans (Tier 2), and construction grants (Tier 3). After ten years of successful program operation and nearly 100% municipal participation across the Commonwealth, the program no longer requires advancement through the tiers in order to be eligible for construction funding.  

Construction grants are awarded up to $1,000,000 for eligible projects. While a prioritization plan is no longer a requirement for construction funding, the program still offers technical assistance funding up to $38,000 for communities to develop a plan if they have not done so already. Moreover, communities with previously adopted Complete Streets Policies and Prioritization Plans will receive extra consideration in funding evaluations for construction funding. Municipalities may also submit new policies and plans to be approved for this purpose. A municipality may only be awarded one grant per funding program per grant round.

Complete Streets Policies, Prioritization Plans, and Prioritization Plan Development Technical Assistance - Optional

The Complete Streets Funding Program no longer requires attending a Complete Streets 101 or 201 course, the adoption of a Complete Streets Policy, or the approval of a Prioritization Plan. While no longer requirements, we still encourage communities to attend trainings and complete these documents and submit them to MassDOT for approval as future applications for design or construction funding will be given further consideration if you have attended trainings and these documents are approved in Grant Central. We still require that a Complete Streets Policy be submitted and approved before putting together a Prioritization Plan and submitting it for approval or obtaining technical assistance. 

The Rapid Response Opioid and Pain Management ECHO Funding Opportunity by the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) aims to enhance clinician training in effective pain management strategies. This initiative focuses on non-opioid treatments, substance use screening, and risk reduction counseling, promoting compassionate care while addressing public health challenges and ensuring continuity for patients affected by prescription disruptions. The program seeks to improve overall health outcomes and reduce risks associated with opioid use.

The African Bird Club offers Expedition Awards of up to £5,000 to support ambitious conservation projects across Africa and its islands. Projects must focus on avian conservation and be linked to recognized academic or conservation organizations. Successful applications will demonstrate local engagement and government approval. Since 1996, ABC has funded over 300 projects, significantly contributing over £600,000 to bird conservation efforts in 50 regions, underscoring its commitment to preserving Africa's biodiversity.

Teams to Promote Aging in Place in OMH Supportive Housing (TPAP) 

Request for Proposals

The purpose of “Teams to Promote Aging in Place in OMH Supportive Housing or TPAP” Geriatric Demonstration Project is to facilitate supportive housing residents aging in place based on their priorities and preferences who are age 55 years and older, as well as residents younger than 55 years living with complex medical conditions that necessitate homecare. Older adults living in OMH supportive housing are at risk of losing community tenure due to emerging unmet care coordination, cross service system navigation, and homecare needs compounded by lack of connection to social determinants of health (SDOH) resources, and community and natural supports. Grant funding will support an enhanced home care rate, provision of at least one paid peer professional, and enhanced care coordination with the local office for aging and community partners that addresses social determinants of health and social engagement needs. OMH supportive housing residents identified as at risk for losing community tenure will be supported by an interdisciplinary care team of (1) an OMH supportive housing case manager, (2) a local office for aging case manager, (3) a homecare professional, and (4) at least one mental health or substance use/gambling peer professional who will collaborate with the residents to identify outstanding service and social needs. This will build a person-centered, holistic plan that is based on the older adult’s priorities and preferences for aging in place. A peer professional in this RFP is defined as a person certified, or provisionally certified, as a mental health Peer Specialist through the New York Peer Specialist Certification Board or a person certified, or provisionally certified, as a substance use/gambling Recovery Peer Advocate through the New York Certification Board. Grantees will also be required to collaborate with community-based organizations across service systems, including mental health, aging, substance use, and gambling harms, that also address social determinants of health and social engagement needs, such as, but not limited to, Social Care Networks, Rural Health Networks, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Older Adult Rural Support Program, Regional Economic Development Councils, or Downtown Revitalization Initiatives. This may include projects focused on community inclusion, the Dwyer Veterans Peer-to-Peer Support Program, club houses, OASAS and OMH recovery centers, older adult centers, faith-based, civic, arts, cultural organizations, etc. To foster sharing of best practices in meeting the holistic needs of OMH supportive housing residents, grantees and their partners will participate in virtual and in-person learning collaboratives that include crossdisciplinary training curriculum consisting of trainings chosen in consultation with the chosen grantees and the Geriatric Interagency Mental Health Substance Use Disorder Planning Council and the Master Plan for Aging advisory groups.

Wrap around funding will be available to provide services and goods not covered through existing reimbursement channels that support aging in place in OMH supportive housing. Examples include, but are not limited to, non-medical transportation, memberships to community groups and/or gyms, continuing education, supplies to support personal interests and hobbies, large print calendars, pill containers, and mobility aids. Wrap-around funding can also be used to provide technological support based on the residents’ needs and preferences. Examples include equipment (laptops, computers, personal devices, and/or internet access), online communities and devices to support engagement (Virtual Senior Centers, GetSetUp, Discover Live interactive virtual tours, animatronic pets, and online support through self-help and peer support groups), and technology literacy classes (for email, video chats with friends, children, grandchildren, etc., banking, patient portals, and education on fraud protection) are additional supports to help people use technology to age in place.

This RFP can be used to expand or enhance existing aging programs in OMH supportive housing or can be used to develop a new program that meets all the program requirements. OMH CR-SROs awarded the “Aging in Place Pilot” grant MH253015 may also apply for this grant for their supportive housing programs.

All types of proposals will be evaluated using the same criteria and applicants must identify the geographic designation they will serve, rural or non-rural. Rural counties in NYS are listed in the table below.

The Environment Fund, launched in 2018 by The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia, aims to protect and enhance the natural environment of Northern Virginia. It fosters collaboration among nonprofits, businesses, and educational institutions to promote awareness and citizen engagement in environmental protection. In 2025, funding will support nonprofit organizations providing educational programs in conservation, energy efficiency, sustainability, watershed management, and workforce climate initiatives, specifically targeting areas within Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties.

The Knight Fund Grant Program, managed by the Community Foundation of Grand Forks, aims to enhance connections between the University of North Dakota and the Downtown area through the University Avenue Corridor. This initiative focuses on improving community engagement, enhancing public spaces, and building on local assets to foster economic mobility and entrepreneurship. The fund specifically targets projects that unite diverse communities and support civic infrastructure, while excluding certain non-program expenses and individual applications.

The Cameron Award supports field research on native rodents across the Americas, encouraging studies in ecology, behavior, physiology, and conservation. It is available to students in MS or PhD programs and postdoctoral researchers in the U.S. Applicants must be ASM members. Funds cover supplies, equipment, and travel, but not salaries or meeting travel. The award aims to enhance understanding of rodent ecology and their impact on ecosystems.

The Hill Country Rally Grant aims to support children in need within the Texas Hill Country by redistributing funds to 501(c)3 organizations or directly assisting youth. Through its annual event, the foundation raises awareness and meets essential needs for kids, including education, healthcare, and recreational opportunities. The grant prioritizes support for organizations helping vulnerable children while maintaining a commitment to renewal grants for ongoing projects that show significant progress towards their goals.

Patterson Family Foundation

The Patterson Family Foundation was established to reinvest in rural communities and cultivate values of education and hard work for current and future generations. Currently, the Foundation is led by the adult children of the Patterson Family.

The Patterson Family Foundation, based in Kansas City, Missouri, is a family-led foundation that extends the legacy of Neal and Jeanne Patterson. The Foundation’s mission, “Working together to help rural communities thrive,” is carried forward through strategic grantmaking and other collaborative initiatives that serve rural counties across Kansas and western Missouri. 

Where We Serve

We are geographically focused on assisting Kansas and western Missouri counties with fewer than 50,000 residents.

Our impact is realized through four interconnected priorities:

Economic Opportunity

• Our vision: Rural communities have resilient economies that offer diverse and stable career opportunities for all residents.
• We are committed to keeping rural economies strong by helping grow and retain great talent, attracting former and new residents, and investing in opportunities that strengthen and diversify local and regional economies

Education

• Our vision: All students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for future success.
• A strong education system is at the heart of a thriving community, and we’re working alongside educators, families, and local leaders to help it grow. This means supporting and developing exceptional teachers, providing students with opportunities to develop skills and experience, and creating more hands-on learning opportunities that prepare students for the future.

Healthcare

• Our vision: Communities have access to high-quality healthcare services, leading to improved health outcomes and increased well-being for all residents.
• Access to quality healthcare is essential for keeping rural communities strong. We work to expand the healthcare workforce, improve access to essential services, and empower all rural residents to lead long, healthy lives.

Community Engagement

• Our vision: Residents are actively engaged in decision-making process, contribute to community development, and have a strong sense of belonging and purpose.
• Strong communities are built through local leadership, volunteerism, and collaboration. We work alongside communities to drive grassroots engagement and empower multi-generational leaders. Through regional partnerships and strong community foundations, we help communities deepen relationships, expand opportunities, and steward local resources for future generations.

Open Call Grants

Patterson Family Foundation’s Open Call Grants are publicly announced and submitted through the Grants Portal. Applications are reviewed using criteria aligned with the Foundation’s priorities, including community impact, feasibility, sustainability, and readiness to implement the proposed work in the Kansas or western Missouri rural community. 

Open Call Grant: Adult Learning

This opportunity supports adult learners in building literacy, workforce readiness, and lifelong learning skills. Funding helps reduce barriers to participation and expands equitable access to evidence-based education that prepares adults for meaningful employment, civic engagement, and personal advancement. Projects should strengthen community-based programs, support innovation, and align adult learning with local workforce needs, with priority given to organizations in our rural catchment area or partnering with local employers. Applicants should plan to report on learner participation, skills or credentials gained, employment or career advancements, and partnerships that connect adult learners to local opportunities. 

Eligible uses of funds include:  

• Funding for new instructors and staff training 
• Instructional materials 
• Technology and digital learning tools 
• Outreach and recruitment 
• Support services that reduce participation barriers 
• Program evaluation and data collection   

The BHACF Community Action Grant provides up to $50,000 to nonprofits with an endowment fund at the Black Hills Area Community Foundation. This grant aims to support innovative projects that leverage community partnerships and sustainable practices. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) public charities and schools within specific counties. However, requests for capital campaigns or activities that discriminate against protected groups are not allowed. The grant fosters diverse proposals in arts, education, social services, and more.

The Hawkins Family Foundation Grant supports diverse non-profit initiatives including healthcare, education, and community development. Primarily funding organizations in Chattanooga, Dublin/Columbus, and Tampa Bay, it requires applicants to be 501(c)(3) public charities or have fiscal sponsors with this status. This grant aims to uplift local communities and enhance the quality of life through various supportive programs.

The WNAN Natural History Research Grant supports research in biological natural history within western North America. Grants of up to $2,500 are available for five authors to assist with travel, supplies, and other research-related expenses. This initiative particularly encourages applicants from institutions where research is not the primary focus, aiming to foster diverse contributions to natural history.

The Friends of the Island Fox Research Grant offers $7,000 to support research aimed at enhancing scientific understanding of island fox biology, health, behavior, and ecology. This funding is part of the Friends of the Island Fox's mission to ensure the long-term survival of this unique species. Applications are welcomed from researchers dedicated to advancing knowledge in these critical areas.

The Competitive Grant - Sunbury Fund, established by the Community Giving Foundation, aims to address various charitable needs in the Sunbury area. Since 2005, it has focused on health-related goals, encouraging nonprofit and governmental organizations to apply for funding. Eligible projects include those targeting children's health, early childhood development, oral health, issues affecting the working poor, and coronary care. All funds must be used within the Sunbury Hospital service area, ensuring local impact.

The Artists & Scholars Project Grant supports individual artists and scholars residing in Montgomery County, MD, for projects in diverse arts and humanities disciplines. Aimed at fostering creativity and enhancing skills, the grant encourages innovative work that reflects the multicultural essence of the community. By promoting strategies for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access (DEIA), the Arts & Humanities Council of Montgomery County aims to nurture talent and support distinctive artistic endeavors between May 1, 2026, and April 30, 2027.

The Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Grant Program, established by AB109, aims to support conservation projects that enhance resilience against climate impacts in California. With an initial funding of $20 million from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, this program focuses on protecting ecosystems, assisting land managers, and increasing carbon sequestration, while aligning with statewide climate strategies and priorities. It seeks to promote environmental benefits and enhance the sustainability of natural and working lands.

About DHHS

Vision

All Utahns have fair and equitable opportunities to live safe and healthy lives.

Mission

The Utah Department of Health and Human Services will support and serve all individuals and communities throughout Utah. It will do so through effective policy and the operations of an effective and efficient seamless system of services and programs that is centered around the individuals and communities the department serves.

SHIFT 3.3 Rural EMS Request for Grant Applications

Project overview:

The Sustaining Health Infrastructure for Transformation (SHIFT) initiative is designed to transform preventive care. SHIFT focuses on enhancing local service delivery and modernizing infrastructure. It supports capital improvements, expands services like community paramedicine, and establishes integrated rural health provider networks to build a more resilient and interconnected healthcare system.

This RFGA will provide funding to rural and Tribal EMS communities to strengthen emergency medical services and workforce capacity by expanding training access, improving communications, facilitating data exchange, and enhancing community paramedicine capabilities.

Applicants must align their proposal with one or more of the following programs:

The James River Water Quality Improvement Grant Program, managed by the Virginia Environmental Endowment, aims to enhance water quality through targeted investments. The program focuses on riparian buffer installations, agricultural pollution reduction, living shoreline construction, and stream restoration. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and local governments, with funding prioritized for implementation costs. Proposals must align with established priorities to demonstrate effectiveness in improving the James River's water quality.

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) offers Equity Workforce Training Implementation Grants to enhance access to training for individuals from underrepresented communities. Grants of up to $1,200,000 are available over two to three years for projects that create career pathways in climate-critical occupations. Applicants can propose initiatives focused on employment training, pipeline preparedness for adult learners, or capacity planning for effective training programs, aiming to address existing barriers and foster employer engagement.

The Bill Terrell Avian Conservation Grants, offered by the Georgia Ornithological Society, support ground-level bird conservation projects in Georgia. Eligible applicants include government agencies and non-profits focused on protecting resident and migratory birds. Funded initiatives may include habitat restoration, exotic species control, and the installation of nesting boxes. Projects must directly benefit bird species and cannot be used for administrative costs. Matching funding is favored to enhance support.

The NIHCM Foundation is seeking innovative research proposals that address critical issues in U.S. health care, particularly focusing on drug pricing, provider consolidation, health care delivery, chronic disease management, and the role of artificial intelligence. Projects should aim to improve affordability and quality of care. We welcome submissions from a variety of researchers and organizations, with a preference for studies that can be completed within one year.