Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services

The mission of the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services is to help sustain a high quality of life for all citizens by protecting and restoring the environment and public health in New Hampshire. The protection and wise management of the state’s environment are the main goals of the agency. 

Formed in January 1987 by state statute RSA 21-O, NHDES was legislatively created through the consolidation and reorganization of four previously separate agencies: the Air Resources Agency, the Office of Waste Management, the Water Supply and Pollution Control Commission, and the Water Resources Board. Each of these groups is now represented within the department’s three divisions: Air Resources, Waste Management and Water.

New Hampshire Clean Diesel Grant Program

NHDES is making funding available for eligible projects that reduce diesel emissions in New Hampshire. Eligible projects include on-road and non-road vehicle, equipment or engine replacements, marine shore power systems, truck stop/parking space electrification and EPA-verified idle reduction and aerodynamic technologies.

This program is a partial reimbursement program only. Applicants must cover the full cost of the proposed project prior to seeking partial reimbursement for eligible project costs.

The Jacarlene Foundation Grant, established in 1988, supports philanthropic endeavors across Florida, focusing on education, animal welfare, and the arts. The foundation prioritizes grants for tax-exempt organizations that align with its mission, ensuring funds are used within Florida. It does not accept requests from religious or political organizations. Notable grants include one million dollars to Zoo Tampa. The foundation embodies Jackie Preis's mantra of community support, aiming to enhance Florida's cultural and environmental landscape.

Department of Energy and Environment

The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is the leading authority on energy and environmental issues affecting the District of Columbia. Using a combination of regulations, outreach, education, and incentives, our agency administers programs and services to fulfill our mission. We work collaboratively with other government agencies, residents, businesses, and institutions to promote environmentally responsible behavior that will lead to a more sustainable urban environment.

Private Fleet Diesel Electrification and Low-NOx

The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) solicits grant applications from eligible entities. The goal of this Request for Applications (RFA) is to improve public health by reducing diesel emissions in the District by replacing class 4+ medium- or heavy-duty diesel-powered vehicles with zero-emission vehicle equivalents. The number and amount of grants will vary depending on DOEE’s evaluation of the applications.

Purpose of the Grant

The purpose of this grant is to select and replace diesel vehicles with zero-emission vehicle equivalents, when these replacements will have a significant community benefit. DOEE will rebate a portion of the cost of vehicle replacements in fleets owned by non governmental organizations, faith-based organizations, universities, or private enterprises.

The Nourishment Focus Area Grant by the Quimby Family Foundation supports Maine-based nonprofits that promote human wholeness through community engagement and education in regional, plant-based food choices. Grants range from $2,500 to $25,000, with a focus on empowering people to choose healthier, sustainable food options. The foundation prioritizes organizations demonstrating community-rooted values and aims to address disparities in access to nutritious foods.

Efficiency Maine Trust 

The Efficiency Maine Trust (Efficiency Maine) is the independent, quasi-state agency established to plan and implement energy efficiency programs in Maine. Through its suite of nationally recognized programs, Efficiency Maine provides consumer information, marketing support, demonstration pilots, discounts, rebates, loans, and other initiatives to promote high-efficiency equipment and operations that help Maine’s homes, businesses, and institutions reduce their energy costs and lower their greenhouse gas emissions. The result is job growth, better grid reliability, improved energy independence, a stronger local economy, and progress toward meeting the State’s climate change goals. Efficiency Maine is governed by a Board of Trustees with oversight from the Maine Public Utilities Commission.

Commercial and Industrial (C&I) Custom Program

The C&I Custom Program incentivizes tailored energy efficiency and distributed generation projects that require site-specific engineering analyses and/or projects with energy conservation measures that are not otherwise covered by the C&I Prescriptive Program incentives.

Examples of customers who have participated in the C&I Custom Program include hospitals, manufacturers, universities, commercial bakeries, food processors, office complexes, and data centers.

The C&I Custom Program includes: 1) Custom Efficiency Projects; 2) Custom Distributed Generation Projects; 3) Energy Storage System Projects; 4) Compressed Air Leak Surveys; 5) Technical Assistance; 6) School Decarbonization Technical Assistance; 7) Scoping Audits 

Custom Distributed Generation Projects

Program Description

The Trust is seeking applications for DG projects with the principal goal of reducing grid-supplied kilowatt hour (kWh) consumption from businesses that use electricity delivered through Maine’s electrical grid.

Maine businesses, nonprofits, institutions and governments are eligible for funding for distributed generation projects through Efficiency Maine’s Commercial and Industrial (C&I) Custom Program. Distributed generation projects are behind-the-meter generation projects that reduce the consumption of grid-supplied electricity and meet Efficiency Maine’s cost-benefit analysis.

Combined heat & power (CHP) projects are the most common type of distributed generation project completed through the C&I Custom Program.

Organizational Information

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Mi​ssio​n​

Uniting People and Information.

Visi​on

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.

2027 Pathways to Prevention: Community Health Engagement and Care Kit (CHECK) Grant

Overview:

This grant is made possible by funding from the Grants to States program administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the Catalyst Fund Grant provided by Lyrasis. This grant aligns with KDLA's Five-Year Plan (2023-2027) to enhance the knowledge and skills of public library staff and support the information needs of all Kentuckians by providing access to resources. 

Goal of the project:

To assist public libraries in supporting health programming and services in their communities. Grant funding can be used to create health kits, purchase technology for telehealth services, and for health-related programming.

Award Information

All grant recipients will receive a laptop for telehealth purposes. KDLA will purchase and deliver the computer to grant recipients. 

Trinity Grants: Neighborhood Support: Downtown Fund aims to enhance the emotional well-being of Lower Manhattan's communities. Launched in 2023, this program focuses on holistic support for families facing systemic challenges such as poverty and violence. By funding initiatives that promote education, health, and economic empowerment, the Downtown Fund seeks to alleviate toxic stress and foster resilience among children and families. Grants range from $500 to $10,000, supporting community-driven solutions.

The Indiana County Endowment Grant, established by the Pittsburgh Foundation, aims to address community needs by funding qualified nonprofit organizations in Indiana County, PA. The grant supports initiatives that promote cultural, social, educational, and economic development, encouraging creative engagement among residents. It provides seed money for new projects, event support, and property improvements, enhancing the overall quality of life in the region. However, it does not cover normal operating expenses or commercial enterprises.

Kansas Department of Transportation 

KDOT delivers transportation that keeps Kansans moving forward.

We maintain thousands of miles of roadways to keep people and goods moving smoothly across the state. Our dedicated team plans, builds, and maintains highways, bridges, and other infrastructure with a focus on safety and innovation.

By working closely with local communities and stakeholders, KDOT aims to enhance the quality of life for all Kansans, support economic growth, and improve travel experiences. 

Kansas Safe Route to School (SRTS) Grants

Grants and funding opportunities are available to support Safe Routes to School planning, programs, and infrastructure improvements. These include the Kansas SRTS Planning Grant, Kansas SRTS Programming Grant, and Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program.

Planning Grants

Planning Grants provide technical assistance to help communities develop SRTS Plans. No local match is required, and KDOT's consultant team works directly with communities to create a plan that guides future SRTS improvements.

What is in a SRTS Plan?

SRTS Plans include an analysis of existing conditions, summary of public outreach, and identification of potential infrastructure and non-infrastructure solutions to help more students walk, bike, and roll to school. See our completed plans here.

How many schools can be included in one plan?

SRTS plans can be developed for one (1) school or up to eight (8) schools within a single school district. Elementary, middle, and high schools are all eligible for SRTS plans. For districts with more than eight schools contact KDOT’s SRTS Coordinator for assistance with selecting schools for the application.

If selected, grantee should be prepared to support plan development by meeting regularly with the project team (KDOT and their consultant), providing information, surveying parents and students (with online tools provided by the consultant team), helping to arrange and publicize public workshops, and participating in identifying local issues and solutions. Additionally, the grantee should be able to demonstrate a commitment to implementing the plan once it is complete.

How to Use Your Completed SRTS Plan

A completed SRTS Plan can be used as a communication and visualization tool for grant applications and to support SRTS programs and activities in your community. It can also be used as a catalyst for broader community conversations about walking, biking, and rolling.

The Sidney R. Baer, Jr. Foundation offers Reintegration Grants aimed at supporting individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. By focusing on abilities rather than symptoms, the foundation promotes recovery through various programs. Their funding helps organizations that maintain a commitment to mental health, ensuring that recipients receive necessary support, such as scholarships and facility management, to enhance their quality of life. The foundation believes in empowering individuals to actively participate in their recovery journey.

The Washington Federal Foundation offers Community Service Micro Grants aimed at supporting nonprofits that assist low- and moderate-income communities. Eligible organizations must have been operational for at least 12 months and be located near a WaFd Bank branch. The grants focus on essential services like housing assistance, financial literacy, and basic needs support, while excluding medical, animal welfare, and arts-related funding unless tied to employment for low-income populations.

The Archdiocese of Milwaukee Catholic Community Foundation is offering the Fall Education, Lay Leadership, and Community Grant Cycle, aimed at supporting Catholic education and community initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that align with the Foundation's focus areas, including education, leadership development, and community-building. Eligible organizations must be listed in the Official Catholic Directory or have a mission consistent with the church. Note that multi-year grants are rarely funded.

Chester County Community Foundation

The Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with the causes that matter, so their philanthropy makes a difference now and forever.

We are entrusted with 430+ family, individual, community group & nonprofit legacy funds. We are a 501(C)3 nonprofit organization and all donations are tax deductible.  

Direct Service Programs/General Operations Grant

• Grants focus on Chester County causes & issues; but are not limited to Chester County.
• Charitable nonprofits working in all fields of interest are considered, such as: Arts, Culture, Heritage; Education, Libraries; Environment, Animals; Health; Human Services; Social Justice, Civic Engagement
• General operating grants are encouraged - Clear, succinct, compelling descriptions are appreciated: mission, aims, results & impact. 
• Nonprofits with higher GuideStar ratings receive stronger consideration.  
• Proposals can be submitted anytime all year.
• Grant decisions are made intermittently all year, as Fund Advisors desire.

The Carolyn Foundation Environmental Grant focuses on combating climate change through community-led initiatives in Minnesota and Indigenous Nations. The Foundation prioritizes organizations that work towards aggressive carbon reduction goals by 2030 to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, not classified as private foundations. The Foundation seeks to support efforts that enhance community engagement and energy efficiency, ensuring equity and environmental justice in policy reforms.

The Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC) offers the 'Funds for Artists' program to support individual artists in various disciplines, including dance, music, and visual arts. This grant assists with costs for materials, professional development, and marketing, providing up to $750. Eligible applicants must be working artists, residents of Franklin County, and over 18 years old. Notably, those enrolled in undergraduate programs or residing outside Franklin County are not eligible. The initiative aims to foster new artistic creations and enhance skills.

The Carrs Foundation in Seattle offers support for nonprofit organizations that align with its mission of strengthening local communities. This biannual grant prioritizes health services, education, hunger relief, and inclusion for all abilities. Eligible organizations must have a valid 501(c)(3) status and serve the community in which they operate. The foundation is committed to inclusivity and does not fund for-profit entities, religious organizations for religious purposes, or advocacy groups.

Washington State Department of Commerce

The Washington State Department of Commerce is the front door of government across our state. Our work touches every corner of Washington and impacts every community. We are advancing the most urgent needs facing our state: the transition to a clean energy economy, climate resilience, housing supply to meet our growing population, and the equitable engagement of communities, Tribes, local governments, and organizations.

Vision: A Washington where every community grows through access to opportunities and innovation. Mission: Commerce fosters resilient communities by building partnerships, delivering resources, and advancing equity through responsive, transparent and collaborative public service.

CERB Rural Ports Program – Tier 4: Micro Grants

The 2025 Washington Legislature directed the Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) to provide grants to rural ports for infrastructure repair, improvement, and development projects for the purpose of rural economic development.

A jurisdiction may submit only one application to the Rural Ports Program. Infrastructure repair, improvement, and development projects for the purpose of rural economic development:

• Enable and encourage private sector business creation or expansion
• Enhance the vitality and livability of the community
• Enhance local tourism

Maryland Center for School Safety

An independent unit of state government established to promote, support, and enhance school communities that are safe for learning and teaching. 

FY2027 Safe Schools Fund Grant (SSFG)​

About the SSFG Grant

The Safe Schools Fund grant (SSFG) is a non-competitive, State-funded grant program designed for local school systems in Maryland. The primary purpose of the Safe Schools Fund grant is to provide funding for school safety and security-related matters as described under Md. Code Ann., Educ. Art. §7-1512. The grant funds will be applied toward the cost of school safety-related projects and services.

The AIAR Long-term Fellowships, particularly the Ernest S. Frerichs Annual Professorship, offer post-doctoral scholars the chance to engage deeply with Near Eastern studies. This prestigious fellowship provides a stipend of $13,500 for a four-month residency in Jerusalem, fostering research that bridges various disciplines. Candidates are expected to contribute to the community of fellows, mentor peers, and assist in the Albright's educational programs while gaining invaluable experience in a vibrant academic environment.

The AIAR offers the Seymour Gitin Distinguished Professorship, a prestigious fellowship for senior scholars in Near Eastern studies. This four-month program provides a $20,000 stipend, along with accommodation and half-board in Jerusalem. Ideal candidates are internationally recognized scholars who engage in significant research across various disciplines related to the Near East. The fellowship promotes scholarly diversity and encourages research that connects contemporary perspectives with the pre-modern past.

The Lydie T. Shufro Summer Research Fellowship at the Albright Institute of Archaeological Research offers a $3,000 stipend for one month of research in Jerusalem. Open to doctoral and senior scholars of all nationalities, it requires residency at the Institute from June 1 to August 31, 2027. The fellowship supports various fields related to Near Eastern studies and promotes diversity in research while emphasizing the importance of continuous engagement with the region's historical context.

The Rutherford County Endowment Grant, offered by The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, provides funding between $2,500 and $10,000 to nonprofit organizations and public agencies that serve Rutherford County. This grant aims to foster philanthropy and enhance charitable activities, with priority given to projects that demonstrate significant community benefits in areas such as education, health, and the environment. Eligible organizations must have a history of substantial work in the area.

The AIAR: Long-term Fellowships provide doctoral students with a unique opportunity to conduct research at the W.F. Albright Institute of Archaeological Research in Jerusalem. With a focus on Near Eastern studies, the fellowships support projects in various fields, including archaeology and anthropology. The program emphasizes continuous residency and encourages applications that engage with the pre-modern past. Awards are contingent on funding availability, with a stipend of $12,000 for a four-month residency.

The TCA Texas Arts Respond Project Grant, offered by the Texas Commission on the Arts, supports innovative arts projects that enhance education, health, economic development, public safety, and environmental awareness in Texas. Eligible applicants include various arts organizations and institutions that comply with specific regulations. This competitive grant program aims to foster creativity and community engagement, ultimately contributing to the state's cultural and economic vitality.

The Carbon Offset Projects Grant, offered by the Colorado Carbon Fund, aims to reduce carbon emissions through local projects in Colorado. The fund supports initiatives registered with verified carbon standards and prioritizes projects like soil carbon sequestration and methane capture. By fostering collaboration among local businesses and communities, the grant helps ensure sustainable practices that contribute to climate change mitigation while keeping capital within the state.

Efficiency Maine Trust 

The Efficiency Maine Trust (Efficiency Maine) is the independent, quasi-state agency established to plan and implement energy efficiency programs in Maine. Through its suite of nationally recognized programs, Efficiency Maine provides consumer information, marketing support, demonstration pilots, discounts, rebates, loans, and other initiatives to promote high-efficiency equipment and operations that help Maine’s homes, businesses, and institutions reduce their energy costs and lower their greenhouse gas emissions. The result is job growth, better grid reliability, improved energy independence, a stronger local economy, and progress toward meeting the State’s climate change goals. Efficiency Maine is governed by a Board of Trustees with oversight from the Maine Public Utilities Commission.

Commercial and Industrial (C&I) Custom Program

The C&I Custom Program incentivizes tailored energy efficiency and distributed generation projects that require site-specific engineering analyses and/or projects with energy conservation measures that are not otherwise covered by the C&I Prescriptive Program incentives.

Examples of customers who have participated in the C&I Custom Program include hospitals, manufacturers, universities, commercial bakeries, food processors, office complexes, and data centers.

The C&I Custom Program includes: 1) Custom Efficiency Projects; 2) Custom Distributed Generation Projects; 3) Energy Storage System Projects; 4) Compressed Air Leak Surveys; 5) Technical Assistance; 6) School Decarbonization Technical Assistance; 7) Scoping Audits 

Scoping Audits

Efficiency Maine offers free scoping audits to eligible businesses that have the potential to develop a qualifying project under the C&I Custom Program. These scoping audits provide businesses with the opportunity to get a professional consultation on their facility’s specific energy use and identify cost-effective energy efficiency projects that will reduce operating expenses.

The Weld Trust offers Rapid Response Grants of up to $25,000 for nonprofits, schools, and government entities in Weld County to address urgent health and safety needs. Applications are typically processed within 7-10 business days. Eligible projects may include essential items for emergency shelters or assistance for displaced individuals. This initiative aims to quickly support organizations tackling pressing issues in the community.