Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

The Avant Garde Award supports innovative research on HIV and substance use disorders, encouraging creative scientists to explore high-risk, high-reward approaches. While applications are not currently being accepted, this initiative by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) aims to stimulate collaborations and impactful research. Early-stage investigators are particularly encouraged to consider this opportunity as they develop their proposals for future funding. The program uses the DP1 activity code, fostering transformative advancements in biomedical and behavioral science.

Arts for All

Support for arts projects that focus on increasing participation in the arts for all Tennesseans.

Engaging in the arts can serve as a powerful tool to improve many aspects of a person’s life including health and well-being, social connectedness, positive aging, increased learning and self-improvement, to name a few. Research shows that the benefits of participating in the arts goes beyond aesthetic enjoyment and is a valid, sustainable way of improving a person’s life.

Many people cannot participate or have limited access to the arts for several reasons. Their opportunity to experience or participate in the arts has been limited due to some type of barrier. Receiving the full benefits of the arts should be available to everyone regardless of economic condition, geographic location, or societal factors, just to name a few.

This grants category encourages applicants to use innovative ways to engage people with limited exposure to the arts in arts programming while reducing those barriers. Applicants in this category must fully explain the population they intend to reach, the limitations that are faced within this population of accessing the arts, and how their proposed arts program intervention will overcome these barriers.

Due to compliance with federal and state laws/policies, proposed programs in this category must be broadly open to the public, not give preferential treatment to any population, nor exclude any individuals from participating. Populations proposed to be reached must also be in compliance with federal and state nondiscriminatory policies and laws.

Application Guidelines

Proposed arts projects must involve one or more of these recognized art forms: visual, craft, media, design, music, theater, dance, folk or literary arts.

The Machias Savings Bank Community Development Grant aims to support projects that enhance community wellness, education, and economic development within its primary lending area. With funding available up to $10,000 per project, the grant prioritizes initiatives that benefit low-to-moderate income individuals and families. Eligible projects include job creation, affordable housing, and community revitalization efforts. The grant is designed to foster sustainable development and support local communities in achieving their goals.

The Variety Sunshine Coach Grant Program aids children with special needs in Southern California by providing essential resources for mobility, education, and healthcare. Celebrating over 30 years, this initiative offers specially equipped Sunshine Coaches to transport children to necessary services. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) and demonstrate a commitment to serving children aged 0-18. By removing barriers, the program ensures inclusivity and opportunity for every child in the community.

Who We Are - CAP Foundation

Mission

Our mission is to improve people’s health by:

• Developing tomorrow’s pathology leaders through awards for advanced training, research, and education.
• Mobilizing pathologists to expand health equity in medically underserved communities within the US and globally.

Vision

Our vision is that pathologists are equipped to bridge health disparities and enhance outcomes globally.

CAP Foundation History

For over 50 years, the CAP Foundation has granted millions of dollars to support pathology education, research, training, and travel grants, with the purpose to:

• Enhance the role of the pathologist in the provision of medical care.
• Advance pathology through the education of the medical community.
• Encourage the clinical application of research developments.

Our Core Values

• Advancement: We are committed to pushing the boundaries of pathology and patient care through scholarships, grants, and educational programs.
• Collaboration: Through effective partnerships, we significantly enhance our capacity to fulfill our mission.
• Excellence: We are dedicated to achieving the highest standards in pathology education, research, and community service.
• Service: Service reflects our core mission of improving health equity by providing access to healthcare and pathology expertise, particularly in underserved communities.

Presidential Pathology Scholarship

This scholarship allows the sitting CAP President to personally support educational creativity, expand awareness of pathology, and connect communities through the CAP Foundation’s mission to develop tomorrow’s pathology leaders. This scholarship is established in honor of each sitting CAP President, as a commitment to the CAP Foundation’s efforts to advance the specialty by supporting creative projects that encourage interest in or expand the reach of pathology. Up to two scholarships will be supported each year. Ranging from $500-$1,500 per awardee, to be used toward the selected project(s).

Each year the sitting CAP President will select a focus area to support based on at least one of the CAP Foundation’s Five (5) Pillars. CAP Foundation Five Pillars:

• Global: Expands global pathology access, capacity, training, and equity.
• Future Leaders: Builds pipeline through learning, leadership, mentorship, and awards.
• Ethics, Research, Innovation: Advances ethical practice, discovery, innovation, and diagnostic excellence.
• Advanced Training: Delivers specialized skills through grants, workshops, and roundtables.
• Community Engagement: Increases visibility and connection with patients, partners, and the public.

The Three Rivers Foundation, established in 2011, focuses on improving the health and welfare of the Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians' historical homelands. It invites funding applications for innovative projects in education, health, public safety, and more, especially those benefiting Native Americans in Oregon or having a statewide impact. The foundation prioritizes grassroots efforts and collaborative approaches, ensuring that the needs of local communities are met through responsive grant-making.

The PB&J Fund, established by the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation, aims to empower children and families through culinary education and improve access to nutritious food for under-resourced community members. By valuing respect, learning, caring, and collaboration, the Fund seeks to foster food sovereignty within the City of Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and public schools, with an emphasis on innovative proposals that address food insecurity.

The KidsFUNd Grant, provided by the Central Kansas Community Foundation, aims to enhance family dynamics and children's mental health within Harvey, Butler, Marion, Elk, Wilson, and Sedgwick counties. Grants of up to $1,500 support initiatives focused on parenting education, youth leadership, and trauma recovery. This funding encourages community-driven solutions, emphasizing the importance of family engagement and positive parenting in improving children's well-being. Eligible organizations must possess a 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate a commitment to these goals.

The Arts Council of Anne Arundel County is dedicated to enhancing educational experiences through the Arts in Education Grants. These grants support the integration of arts into school curricula for Pre-K to grade 12. Open to public and nonprofit-private schools, the program encourages creativity and cultural enrichment. Schools may apply for up to two grants annually, with a focus on Title I schools. The initiative fosters collaboration among students, teachers, and artists to create vibrant learning environments.

The Charles B. Mathis Memorial Trust Grant supports residents of Ocean County, NJ, focusing on the elderly, poor, sick, and handicapped. Established by Henry C. Mathis, the trust promotes education, good government, and morals. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and operate locally to qualify. Preference is given to educational initiatives and assistance programs. Applications are accepted year-round, with a submission deadline of April 15 for annual reviews.

The Downing-Nix Trust Grant provides funding for organizations engaged in research on muscular dystrophy, maintaining treatment wards in Atlanta hospitals, offering veterinary medicine scholarships, and supporting shelters for small animals. Organizations must qualify as 501(c)(3) charities. Applications are accepted year-round, but submissions by April 15 are required for annual meeting reviews. Priority may be given to hospitals and veterinary schools within Atlanta, GA.

The NH Wetland Mitigation Grant Program, managed by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, aims to sustain aquatic resources. Through the Aquatic Resource Mitigation Fund, it offers an alternative to traditional mitigation by allowing In-Lieu Fee payments to support restoration and enhancement projects. The program pools funds from nine watersheds and provides competitive grants to ensure the long-term health and function of aquatic ecosystems, aligning with the federal goal of 'no net loss'.

The Bernice Ash Memorial Award honors the legacy of a retail music visionary by providing a $5,000 grant to mid-career professionals employed by NAMM member companies. This award aims to support emerging leaders in the music industry through professional development opportunities and a one-year mentorship with NAMM Young Professionals. Eligible applicants must have at least five years of experience and agree to use the funds for professional training, enhancing their leadership skills and career growth.

Indian Affairs Department

The Indian Affairs Department (IAD) is a Cabinet Level agency within the Executive Branch of the State of New Mexico.

The Indian Affairs Department (IAD) is a cabinetlevel agency within the Executive Branch of the State of New Mexico, leading change through a variety of programs and administration of funding opportunities. IAD investigates and addresses the health, economy, education and legislative impacts affecting Indian conditions and relations in New Mexico.

IAD collaborates with other state agencies, promotes public participation and serves as the clearinghouse for all state programs impacting Indian communities.

The department may hold hearings, conduct meetings, investigate issues and partner with tribal, local, state and federal entities to promote the welfare of New Mexico’s Indian people.

It also contracts with tribal governments, public agencies or private entities to provide services and facilities for Indian communities.

IAD also focuses on matters such as Behavioral Health & Suicide Prevention, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP), Environmental Justice, Policy & Legislation and more.

Youth Council Special Project

Purpose

IAD has funding available to support activities and/or projects of Youth Councils in NPTs in New Mexico. Eligible projects and/or activities include the creation or expansion of Youth Councils; opportunities for Youth Council members to participate in cultural activities that can increase their skills, influence their communities and learn about governance; and/or providing outreach and training to youth peers on Youth Council initiatives in NPTs.

The Diversity Mentorship Grant Program aims to enhance ethnic diversity in dermatology by providing mentorship to underrepresented medical students. Participants receive 160 hours of hands-on experience with a dermatologist, fostering a deeper understanding of the field. A stipend of $1,500 is available for travel and living expenses. Applications are open until November 1 for the upcoming year, encouraging students from diverse backgrounds, including Black, Hispanic, and Native American groups, to apply.

South Fork Focus Zone Irrigated Acreage Retirement Program

Colorado has an obligation to retire 25,000 acres in the South Fork Focus Zone (SFFZ) by the end of 2029, as a result of a 2016 resolution with Kansas and Nebraska. As of spring 2025, over 17,000 acres have been retired. The 2025 Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) Water Projects Bill, SB25-283, includes a $6.0 million appropriation to help retire the remaining nearly 8,000 acres. 

The South Fork Focus Zone Irrigated Acreage Retirement Program, established by the CWCB, administers these funds. The program offers grants of $750 per retired irrigated acre to eligible landowners in the SFFZ.

The Program issues grants to eligible owners of irrigated acreage in the South Fork Focus Zone of $750 per irrigated acre retired. Among other requirements, eligibility requires participation in one of four “base” programs and a positive recommendation from the Republican River Water Conservation District. Final grant decisions are made by the CWCB with concurrence from the Colorado Division of Water Resources. 

The Michigan Professional Insurance Agents Scholarship (MIPIA) is offered by the Four County Community Foundation to seniors and recent graduates in Michigan planning to major in Insurance/Risk Management. This scholarship provides up to four awards and aims to foster education in the insurance field. Award recipients will be honored at the Foundation Scholarship Celebration in May, ensuring recognition of their achievements and contributions to the community.

The Make it Minnesota Cost-Share Program, administered by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, offers financial assistance to Minnesota-based consumer packaged goods companies. By reimbursing 50% of eligible marketing investments, the program supports businesses in enhancing their market presence. Eligible entities can receive up to $4,000 annually for Minnesota-manufactured brands and $3,000 for those made elsewhere. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis until the deadline or funds are exhausted, with the final application date set for July 10, 2026.

The NRF Foundation Bright Futures Scholarship provides a unique opportunity for undergraduate students to attend the 2026 NRF Foundation Student Program in New York City at no cost. This need-based scholarship allows students to explore career paths in the retail industry, meet leading recruiters, and gain insights from industry executives. Eligible students can receive free travel and accommodation for this enriching experience, which takes place from January 8-11, 2026.

Farmer First Regenerative Pilot Program

Regenerative Agriculture is a conservation management approach that emphasizes natural resources through improved soil health, water management, and natural vitality for the productivity and prosperity of American agriculture and communities.

In December 2025, NRCS launched the NRCS Regenerative Pilot Program, a farmer first, outcomes-based approach to conservation designed to return the agency to its core mission – helping people help the land. NRCS is investing $700 million to specifically support regenerative agriculture, including:

• $400 million through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP); and
• $300 million through the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)

This pilot program addresses whole-farm resource concerns through support for voluntary regenerative agriculture conservation plans. It also puts American farmers first as a part of the solution to Make American Healthy Again (MAHA) by supporting access to American-grown whole foods, critical to addressing the chronic disease crisis nationwide.

For too long, divided and highly specific funding pools have unintentionally encouraged isolated, practice-by-practice conservation, rather than holistic management. By integrating bundled regenerative practices into single applications, closing program loopholes, and recognizing outcomes, NRCS will deliver lasting benefits for farmers, natural resources, and the American consumer.

Emphasizing regenerative agriculture builds upon NRCS’s 90 years of existing conservation work by restoring land health, improving long-term productivity, and ensuring American grown production for the future. 

The contract length will be a minimum of 5 years.

The Coleman County Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and government agencies in addressing immediate community needs. Established in 1999, the Foundation has invested over $1.2 million into various sectors including arts, education, health, and social services. This funding opportunity aims to enhance community development and improve the quality of life for residents in Coleman County, fostering growth and support for essential initiatives.

Margaret Dowell-Gravatt Fund

Arthur Gravatt and Margaret Dowell-Gravatt established the Margaret Dowell-Gravatt, M.D. Scholarship by outright gift through the Oregon State University Foundation in November, 1988. The scholarship is to encourage and support ethnic minority undergraduate women enrolled in the College of Science and pursuing a B.A. or B.S. degree in Zoology or Microbiology or one of the following Pre-Health Programs: Medical Technology, Medicine, Nursing, Physical and/or Occupational Therapy. The OSU Foundation Scholarship Awards Committee will select the recipient, working with advisory members from the College of Science.

Our Mission

Empower donors to fulfill their passions and dreams by establishing charitable vehicles designed to create a positive and enduring impact on Jewish Buffalo, Western New York and the World.

Israel Scholarships

For more than 30 years the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies has provided financial assistance for high school and college students to travel and study in Israel. Students participating in approved programs will be eligible for assistance for the upcoming summer based upon merit and/or financial need.

Awards are limited to Jewish students who have attended high school in either Erie or Niagara County in New York State or to Jewish students who are residing in either Erie or Niagara County and are new Americans.

The goals of the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies Israel Experience scholarship program are to develop:

• Increased Jewish identity
• Greater commitment to Israel and the Buffalo Jewish community
• Leadership in the Buffalo Jewish community

Participants may apply for funding for a program they have found that fulfills one or more of the following criteria:

• Is organized by a camp recognized by the One Happy Camper Program
• Is organized by a National Jewish Youth Movement (NFTY, USY, NCSY, BBYO, Young Judea, Bnei Akiva)
• Is approved by Masa Israel Journey

We will review other programs on a case by case basis.

There are two types of the Israel Scholarships: 1) Community Support Scholarships; and 2) Financial Need Based Scholarships

Financial Need Based Scholarships

Please see information under Eligibility.

Income guidelines

• Please keep in mind that our funds are limited, and requests generally exceed demand
• We work hard to make sure that the neediest families are given priority
• We take into account the family’s total financial picture, not just income

To complete your financial need based application, you will need to include:

• Pages 1 & 2 of your most recent Federal Income Tax Return Form 1040 or Pages 1-3 of Form 1040-SR for parents/guardians listed
• Verification of program costs from sponsoring organization (invoice or letter from organization).

IMPORTANT: If the above items are not included, your application will not be considered complete.

The Greater Cincinnati Foundation's Building Bright Futures: Education initiative aims to empower children and young adults by funding innovative programs that foster academic success. This inaugural grant cycle focuses on evidence-based solutions that enhance mentoring, tutoring, and socio-emotional development. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to high-quality education in the Greater Cincinnati region. Funding can support new initiatives, program expansions, or operational support, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.

The Richard S. Shineman Foundation Strategic Grants focus on enhancing community well-being in Oswego County. Established in honor of Dr. Richard S. Shineman, the foundation supports projects in various areas, including arts, civic benefit, education, and health services. Organizations classified as tax-exempt under 501(c)(3) are encouraged to apply for grants exceeding $10,000, which are reviewed biannually in May and November. A Letter of Inquiry is required for consideration.

Historic Preservation - National Maritime Heritage Program for education and preservation projects

The Program provides funding for maritime heritage preservation and education projects designed to reach broad audiences and enhance public awareness and appreciation for the maritime heritage of the United States.

Project funds are disbursed from the Maritime Heritage Program directly to State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPOs), who make subgrants to applicants.

The Richard S. Shineman Foundation Community Enrichment Grants support organizations in Oswego County that enhance community well-being. Focused on arts, education, civic improvement, and health services, these grants empower projects that address local needs. With a funding limit of $2,499 and quarterly review cycles, the foundation aims to foster sustainable development and improve the quality of life in the region. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt organizations or have a fiscal sponsor.