Upcoming Webinar
Instrumentl Fall Launch: Your Grant Operating System Has Leveled Up.
Wed, Nov 4 @ 2PM ET

Skip to main content
Main content

Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

Explore private grants for nonprofits funding programs in education, health, community development, and the arts.

33,000+

Available grants

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$9.00B total
$6K median

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

Skip the search.

Get matched with grants that actually fit.

Smart recommendations based on your profile — in minutes.

Find me grants

Filters

32,545 Results based on applied filters

Connection, Assistance, Resources and Education Grant for Dementia Caregivers in DC (CARE DC)

District of Columbia Department of Health
State/Local Government
District of Columbia
US $70,000 - US $80,000
The Connection, Assistance, Resources and Education Grant for Dementia Caregivers in DC (CARE DC) aims to enhance the quality of life for dementia caregivers by establishing a coordinated network of resources. This initiative seeks to increase caregiver support and reduce the long-term health impacts associated with caregiving. By facilitating access to dementia navigation services, CARE DC promotes wellness and equity among caregivers in the District, addressing critical health risks and enhancing community collaboration.
Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease Caregiver Support / Respite Care

Richard Beatty Mellon Environmental Stewardship Award

Air & Waste Management Association (A&WMA)
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The Richard Beatty Mellon Environmental Stewardship Award, established in 1954, honors individuals or organizations for significant contributions to pollution abatement. Eligible candidates demonstrate dedicated efforts in promoting air pollution control and waste management. This prestigious award reflects the legacy of Richard Beatty Mellon, who pioneered research in air quality and environmental protection. The award is open to both members and nonmembers of the Air & Waste Management Association.
Environmental Contamination & Pollution Environmental Stewardship Waste Management

Community Resilience and Flood Risk Reduction Grants: Coastal Rehabilitation and Resilience Projects

New York State Department of State
State/Local Government
New York
More than US $300,000

New York Department of State

The New York Department of State’s core mission is to provide a better quality of life and expand opportunities for all New Yorkers by fostering community revitalization, catalyzing economic growth through business formation, protecting consumers, helping new Americans, supporting local governments, assisting individuals and families to achieve upward economic mobility, and ensuring safety and integrity through the regulation of licensed occupations and the development of building standards and codes.

Community Resilience and Flood Risk Reduction Grants

The NYS Department of State (Department or DOS), through the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 (Bond Act), is soliciting applications from eligible applicants through the New York State Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) for Community Resilience and Flood Risk Reduction Grants. These grants will enhance community resilience and reduce flood risk through the implementation of the following project types:

  • Coastal Rehabilitation and Resilience Projects
  • Inland Flooding and Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) Implementation Projects 

State assistance awarded and paid shall not exceed 90% of the total eligible project costs set forth in the application and as approved by the Department.

Community Resilience and Flood Risk Reduction Grant implementation projects may include completion of final design and construction, or construction-only for eligible projects. Projects should prioritize nature-based and natural solutions where feasible and provision of co-benefits. 

Coastal Rehabilitation and Resilience Projects

Coastal Rehabilitation and Resilience Projects align with the Coastal Zone Management Act of 19721; a federal law with the goal to guide development in a manner that preserves, protects, and where possible, restores or enhances the uses and resources of the nation’s coastal zone. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) approved New York State’s Coastal Management Program (NYS CMP)2 in 1982, which provides a framework for federal and State agency decision-making for actions that have a reasonably foreseeable effect on the State’s coastal uses and resources. The State’s coastal area includes but is not limited to waters and lands bordering the St. Lawrence, Niagara, and Lower Hudson Rivers, the Great Lakes, Long Island Sound, and all tidal waters.3 DOS is the delegated state agency administrator of the NYS CMP, which implements the Coastal Zone Management Act on behalf of NOAA.

Climate Change Resilience & Equity Coastal Conservation

Cancer Prevention in Maine

Maine Cancer Foundation
Private
Maine
Up to US $80,000

Cancer Prevention in Maine

Cancer remains a leading cause of death in Maine, impacting thousands of Mainers each year. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce cancer risk and prevention certain types of cancer, ultimately reducing the burden of the disease in our state.

To support cancer prevention efforts, Maine Cancer Foundation is now accepting applications for evidence-based interventions to reduce the risk of cancer in Maine.

Cancer Prevention Focus Areas that will be considered include:

  • Alcohol Use
  • Environmental Factors that Impact Cancer (Arsenic, PFAs, Radon)
  • HPV Vaccinations
  • Obesity Prevention
  • Sun Safety
  • Tobacco Use and Prevention and/or Treatment

Proposals should utilize evidence-based practices in preventing cancer. Please be prepared to provide quantitative and/or qualitative data to support your proposed strategies throughout an application.

Grant Term & Request Amount

Applicants may request a 1- or 2-year grant. Request amounts up to $40,000 per year will be accepted. The maximum request over two years is $80,000. Please note, requests do not have to meet the maximum amount. Smaller, pilot projects are also encouraged.

Cancer / Oncology Smoking Obesity

Texas Water Development Fund

Texas Water Development Board (TWDB)
State/Local Government
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Texas Water Development Fund (DFund) offers state-funded loans for a variety of infrastructure projects, including water supply and flood control initiatives. Eligible applicants include political subdivisions and nonprofit water supply corporations. The program streamlines funding by allowing multiple project components to be included in one loan. As of FY 2020, approximately $2.7 billion has been committed, with applications requiring a pre-application conference to discuss eligibility and project details.
Water Resource Management

Neurological Occupational Therapy Fellowship

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
Private
Cook County, Illinois
Unspecified amount
The Occupational Therapy Neurological Fellowship at the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab offers a 12-month program designed to develop leaders in occupational therapy. Participants will engage in evidence-based practice and community-focused rehabilitation, supported by structured mentorship and opportunities for individualized learning. Graduates will be equipped to advocate for clients and pursue board certification in Physical Rehabilitation, contributing to advancements in neurorehabilitation through collaborative, research-informed practices.
Occupational Therapy Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Medical Rehabilitation +3 more

South Carolina - Forest Renewal Cost-Share Program (FRP)

South Carolina Forestry Commission
State/Local Government
South Carolina
Unspecified amount
The South Carolina Forest Renewal Cost-Share Program provides essential financial assistance to eligible landowners for tree planting and forestry management practices. This initiative, supported by the South Carolina Forestry Commission and local forest industries, aims to enhance timber supplies and promote environmental benefits such as clean air and wildlife habitats. With funding covering up to 90% of costs, the program encourages sustainable forestry practices while stimulating the local economy. Participation requires adherence to specific management plans and completion within set timelines.
Forestry

Community Development Block Grant Program for Indian Tribes and Alaska Native Villages (364031)

US HUD: Office of Public and Indian Housing (PIH)
Federal Government
United States
US $500,000 - US $2,250,000
The Community Development Block Grant Program for Indian Tribes and Alaska Native Villages aims to foster the development of viable communities by providing funding for housing, living environments, and economic opportunities, primarily benefiting low- and moderate-income individuals. The program is competitive, offering both single-purpose and imminent threat grants to address urgent public health and safety issues, ensuring that tribes can improve their community welfare effectively.
Economic Services & Development Community Development & Revitalization Community / Public Safety +2 more

Land, Health, Community Grant Program: Chicagoland (Inspirational Grants)

The Lumpkin Family Foundation
Private
Cook County, Illinois
Up to US $10,000
The Land, Health, Community Grant Program: Chicagoland, administered by The Lumpkin Family Foundation, focuses on fostering healthy communities through funding for innovative, collaborative projects. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for organizations that aim to address systemic inequalities and promote health and wellness. This program seeks initiatives that enhance access to nutritious food, support mental health, and engage communities in sustainable practices, ultimately striving to create vibrant, equitable neighborhoods in the Chicagoland area.
Economic Rights, Justice, & Mobility Poverty Alleviation & Services Environmental Justice & Advocacy +2 more

Corporate Giving Program: Requests over $1000

Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation
Private
California, Canada +19 more
More than US $1,000
The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that enhance community welfare. Focus areas include agriculture, education, fighting hunger, and public safety. Eligible applicants must have IRS 501(c)(3) status and a Taxpayer Identification number. Requests are prioritized for programs directly benefiting communities near Perdue facilities across various states. The foundation emphasizes responsible stewardship and community engagement in all funding decisions.
Education Agriculture Environment +6 more

Clean Water State Revolving Fund

Texas Water Development Board (TWDB)
State/Local Government
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) in Texas offers low-cost financing for various pollution control projects, including wastewater and stormwater management. With over $460 million allocated for Fiscal Year 2024, this program supports the planning, design, and construction of essential infrastructure. Key features include below-market interest rates, principal forgiveness for disadvantaged communities, and funding for urgent projects. CWSRF is vital for enhancing water quality and environmental sustainability in Texas communities.
Water Resource Management

Carl Hill Memorial Scholarship

Delaware Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $500

Carl Hill Memorial Scholarship

Awards:

  • One time award of $500.
Education - Higher Education Financial Literacy Business Education +1 more

Advocacy for Child-Serving Systems RFP

William Penn Foundation
Private
Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
Up to US $500,000
The Advocacy for Child-Serving Systems RFP by the William Penn Foundation aims to enhance educational equity in Philadelphia by increasing the number of certified, diverse teachers. This initiative addresses the significant gap between the racial demographics of students and teachers. By funding strategic outreach and educational efforts, the foundation seeks to mobilize stakeholders to advocate for improved funding in early childhood and K-12 education, ensuring that all children have access to quality education and support.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Teacher Development & Training Academic Success & Enrichment +3 more

Coastal Wetlands Restoration Grants

Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB)
State/Local Government
Oregon
US $125,000 - US $1,000,000

National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grants

The National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grants Program annually provides grants of up to $1 million to coastal and Great Lakes states, as well as U.S. territories to protect, restore and enhance coastal wetland ecosystems and associated uplands. The Program is funded by revenues collected from excise taxes on sport fishing equipment, electric motors and sonar, import duties on fishing tackle, yachts and pleasure craft, a portion of the gasoline tax attributable to motorboats and small engines, and interest on the fund, under the authority of the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act of 1950.

Eligible projects include the acquisition of real property interest in coastal lands or waters and the restoration, enhancement, or management of coastal wetlands ecosystems.

OWEB Coastal Wetlands Grants

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program (NCWCGP) was established to acquire, restore, and enhance wetlands in coastal states through competitive matching grants to state agencies. The primary goal of the NCWCGP is the long‐term conservation of coastal wetland ecosystems. Only legislatively approved state agencies may submit applications to the NCWCGP. Since 2013, OWEB has been an approved agency. OWEB serves as the official grantee of the federal award and makes the federal funds available to local conservation and restoration partners through sub-grants. All sub-grants are subject to the Rules and guidelines of OWEB’s grant programs.

Eligible Projects

All projects must ensure long-term conservation.

Eligible projects under the NCWCGP include:

  • Acquisition of a real property interest (permanent conservation easement or fee title) in coastal lands or coastal wetlands ecosystems from willing sellers, and/or
  • Restoration, enhancement, or management of coastal wetlands ecosystems.
Restoration Grants

OWEB issues a solicitation for Coastal Wetlands Restoration Grant applications in the spring of each year.

Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Coastal Conservation

N.C. Forest Service - Urban and Community Forestry Financial Assistance Program: Climb to Managing Community Package - Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)

North Carolina Forest Service
State/Local Government
North Carolina
US $5,600,000

N.C. Forest Service - Urban and Community Forestry Financial Assistance Program

The goal of the North Carolina Urban and Community Forestry (U&CF) Program is to help municipalities reach a level of sustainable U&CF management that matches their goals and capacity. We define urban and community forestry as follows:

Urban forestry is defined as the management of the planting, maintenance and protection of tree populations in urban settings to enhance the economic and ecosystem services trees provide to the community.

Community forestry is a branch of forestry that engages the community in the completion of urban forestry practices in support of local government, serves broader community needs and works for positive change.

When municipalities and partners accomplish urban and community forestry practices and activities in an ordered manner, they enhance the level of management in the community, leading to sustainable program success.

We use the accomplishment of six specific standards to measure and classify the development status of a community’s U&CF program into one of four management classifications. This helps a community measure its progress, celebrate accomplishments, and allows us to best serve each community’s individual needs.

The Urban and Community Forestry Project Financial Assistance Program is designed to help communities climb this sustainable management hierarchy. The program accomplishes this by providing financial assistance and guidance in the development and completion of U&CF projects comprised of urban and community forestry practices and activities. A Request for Applications (RFA) process is offered several times a year to help you plan and apply for these assistance opportunities. Definitions of the practices, activities and project deliverables can be found in the following document: NCFS U&CF FAP Glossary of Deliverables and Requirements

Financial Assistance Program Packages

We offer the following packages of specific practices and activities, each designed to help move a community up the management hierarchy or address a specific need.

  • Climb to Tree City USA Package (Consolidated Program Grant (CPG); Hurricane Helene Recovery (HHR); and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA))
  • Climb to Managing Community Package (Consolidated Program Grant (CPG); Hurricane Helene Recovery (HHR); and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA))
  • Tree Maintenance and Planting Packages: i) Tree maintenance and planting project (Hurricane Helene Recovery (HHR); and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)) and ii) Bad tree bounty project);
  • Professional Staff Development Assistance
  • N.C. Arbor Day Celebration Assistance
  • Special Projects: Climb to Tree City USA Services (Hurricane Helene Recovery (HHR); and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA))

Climb to Managing Community Package

This assistance package is designed to help municipalities that have achieved Tree City USA standards complete practices and activities to meet the standards to achieve the NCFS U&CF Managing Community designation. The RFA opens in January each year.

Funding Program Options

A grant will be funded by one of the three funding programs. You will need to select one. (Contact NCFS U&CF program staff for guidance, if needed):

  • Consolidated Program Grant (CPG)
  • Hurricane Helene Recovery (HHR)
  • Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)

Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)

  • 100% of the Tribal government or municipality’s incorporated lands fall within the boundaries of NCFS U&CF Financial Assistance Program Inflation Reduction Act project areas.
  • Cost share %: Reimbursement of 100% of eligible purchased goods and services.
  • Indirect administration – 20% de minimis/total purchased goods and services.
  • $5.6 million of assistance is available for award of all IRA funded RFAs.

Forestry

Prevent Sleep-Related Infant Deaths in Minnesota’s American Indian and Black/African American Populations RFP

Minnesota Department of Health
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $134,000

Prevent Sleep-Related Infant Deaths in Minnesota’s American Indian and Black/African American Populations RFP

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) seeks proposals to fund one organization with the capacity and expertise to create, manage, and support Community Action Teams (CATs) to implement culturally appropriate, data driven solutions to reduce sudden unexpected infant deaths (SUIDs) in Minnesota’s American Indian and Black/African American populations. The organization selected for this grant must be uniquely positioned to support the CATs in implementing community prioritized solutions to improve infant sleep safety that align with the American Academy of Pediatrics safe sleep recommendations. The awarded applicant must also be immediately ready, upon being notified about the award, to begin forming the CATs and executing other duties as contractually agreed upon. This RFP aligns with both state and national goals to reduce infant mortality by addressing SUIDs in communities that are disproportionately affected by sleep-related tragedies during infancy.

The source of funding for this grant opportunity is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Department of Health and Human Services, through NU58DP007698. Funding is currently available for $134,000 from July 15, 2026, to Sept. 29, 2027. However, the grant may be extended for an additional year contingent on the availability of funds and the awarded applicant’s performance during the initial project period. Funding will be allocated through a competitive process.

Estimated Amount to Grant

  • $134,000

Estimated Number of Awards

  • 1
Maternal And Perinatal Health Black American Services Native American Services

Music Industry Mental Health Fund’s FireAid Grants

Music Health Alliance
Association/Society
Los Angeles County, California
US $2,000
The Music Industry Mental Health Fund’s FireAid Grants aim to support music industry professionals and their families affected by the LA wildfires. By providing up to $2,000 for outpatient mental health services, along with recommendations for qualified providers and follow-up care, this initiative addresses the urgent need for mental health resources in the wake of personal loss and financial hardship. The fund emphasizes continuity of care to ensure that recipients receive comprehensive support as they navigate their recovery.
Firefighting & Fire Prevention Search & Rescue Disaster Preparedness +2 more

Elevance Health Foundation: Food as Medicine Grant

Elevance Health Foundation
Corporate
United States
Unspecified amount
The Elevance Health Foundation's Food as Medicine Grant aims to enhance access to nutritious foods and improve health outcomes for individuals facing diet-related conditions. This initiative invites qualified nonprofits to submit proposals focused on scalable solutions that address food insecurity and promote health equity. The foundation prioritizes programs that demonstrate measurable outcomes and support whole-person health, particularly for populations at high social risk. Grants will be awarded for a term of 1-3 years, with funding based on program needs.
Food Security Nutrition & Healthy Eating Chronic Illnesses

Rural Health Transformation Program: Regional Partnership Grant Program

Kansas Department of Health and Environment
State/Local Government
Kansas
Unspecified amount

Kansas Department of Health and Environment

To protect and improve the health and environment of all Kansans.

Rural Health Transformation Program

The Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) serves to improve the health of rural Kansans by expanding primary and secondary prevention programs, securing local access to primary care, building a sustainable rural health workforce, enabling value-base care and harnessing data and technology.

This office works closely with the Kansas Rural Health Innovation Alliance in supporting rural health systems and the communities they serve to improve access and outcomes in health care. 

Five Kansas RHTP Initiatives

  • Improving rural Kansas’ health outcomes and transforming the delivery system by implementing and sustaining initiatives that promote preventative health care and address root causes of diseases,
  • Enhancing rural health care providers’ efficiency and sustainability,
  • Attracting and retaining a highly-skilled health care workforce,
  • Sparking growth of innovative care models in rural communities that improve quality of care while reducing costs, and,
  • Fostering the use of innovative technologies to increase access to care for rural Kansans

Open RHTP Funding Opportunities

  • Regional Partnership Grant Program 
  • Rural Emergency Hospital (REH) Conversion/Transformative Capital Investment (CAP) Grant 

Regional Partnership Grant Program 

The $44 million RPGP grant enables eligible providers to participate in collaborative arrangements that promote preventive health care and address the root causes of disease, enhance rural providers’ efficiency and sustainability, attract and retain a high-skilled health care workforce, spark growth of value-based care models, and foster the use of innovative technologies. 

Rural Health Care Preventative Healthcare Job Creation +1 more

NC: Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) - Wetlands Reserve Easement (WRE) Component

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of North Carolina
Federal Government
North Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) in North Carolina supports landowners in protecting and enhancing wetlands and agricultural lands through conservation easements. By limiting non-agricultural uses, ACEP ensures the preservation of valuable ecosystems and agricultural viability. The program offers financial assistance for permanent and 30-year easements, facilitating the restoration of degraded wetlands. Additionally, the Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP) enhances habitat protection efforts, prioritizing applications that benefit migratory birds and wildlife.
Land / Habitat Conservation Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Environmental Stewardship

AGRI Minnesota Value Added Grant Program

Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA)
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $1,000 - US $150,000
The AGRI Minnesota Value Added Grant Program supports value-added businesses by providing grants for equipment investments. Aimed at enhancing the production capacity and market access for Minnesota agricultural products, it prioritizes projects that improve food safety and increase hemp fiber production. Applicants must provide a cash match, covering 50% of the first $50,000 and 75% of any additional costs, with a maximum award of $150,000. This initiative fosters economic growth in the agricultural sector.
Agricultural Economics Livestock & Ranching Agricultural Crops +1 more

Emergency Insect Management Grant

Wyoming Department of Agriculture
State/Local Government
Wyoming
Unspecified amount

Mission Statement

The Wyoming Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the promotion and enhancement of Wyoming's agriculture, natural resources and contribution to Wyoming quality of life.

The Wyoming Department of Agriculture assists the citizens of Wyoming to live safe and healthy lives, promote and preserve our agricultural community, be responsible stewards of our natural resources, and achieve integrity in the marketplace.

Emergency Insect Management Grant

The Emergency Insect Management Program was enacted by the Wyoming Legislature in 2003 to create an account, and program oversight, to assist with emergency management of insect pests and insect vectors.

Insect vectors may include blood-feeding arthropods, mosquitoes, biting flies or other such insects that harbor or transmit pathogens harmful to humans, livestock, agriculture, livestock or natural resources. Insect pests may include grasshoppers, Mormon crickets, or other cyclic or outbreak insect species, in addition to incipient populations of invasive insects including fire ants and Africanized honeybees.

Approved programs shall receive not more than 50% of the total program cost. In special circumstances, programs for the control of outbreak insects may receive up to 75% of the program costs.

This funding is to provide supplemental help to manage emergency outbreaks of insect pests and insect vectors of diseases for the protection of human health and safety, animal health including livestock and wildlife, agriculture and natural resources.

Insect Pest Control

Sarah Ralston Foundation- General Operating Support Grants

Sarah Ralston Foundation
Private
Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
US $5,000 - US $50,000
The Sarah Ralston Foundation provides General Operating Support Grants to enhance the quality of life for vulnerable older adults in Philadelphia County. Funding ranges from $5,000 to $50,000 and is aimed at nonprofit organizations meeting specific eligibility criteria. The foundation emphasizes flexibility, allowing grantees to allocate resources effectively to fulfill their missions, while adhering to guiding principles that promote equity, diversity, and community engagement.
Senior Services Aging / Gerontology Social Isolation +1 more

Jerry and Martha Taylor Memorial Scholarship

Quad Cities Community Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $2,500
The Jerry and Martha Taylor Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, supports students from Rock Island County pursuing post-secondary education. With awards of up to $1,000, this scholarship is not renewable and is open to applicants with a minimum GPA of 2.75. Preference is given to students majoring in journalism, theater arts, or special education, or those attending accredited trade schools.
Theater Journalism Special Needs Education +2 more

Gary S. Wilmer / RAMI Music Scholarship

Community Foundation of Northern Illinois
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Gary S. Wilmer / RAMI Music Scholarship supports local students aged 19 and under who are passionate about music and committed to furthering their education in the arts. Established in memory of Gary Wilmer, founder of RAM Magazine, this scholarship honors his legacy by providing financial assistance to aspiring musicians in Boone, Ogle, or Winnebago County. Applicants are required to submit an audition recording and a reference from a music teacher to demonstrate their dedication to musical excellence.
Music Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs +2 more

N.C. Forest Service - Urban and Community Forestry Financial Assistance Program: Tree Maintenance and Planting Project - Inflation Reduction Act (IRA))

North Carolina Forest Service
State/Local Government
North Carolina
US $5,600,000

N.C. Forest Service - Urban and Community Forestry Financial Assistance Program

The goal of the North Carolina Urban and Community Forestry (U&CF) Program is to help municipalities reach a level of sustainable U&CF management that matches their goals and capacity. We define urban and community forestry as follows:

Urban forestry is defined as the management of the planting, maintenance and protection of tree populations in urban settings to enhance the economic and ecosystem services trees provide to the community.

Community forestry is a branch of forestry that engages the community in the completion of urban forestry practices in support of local government, serves broader community needs and works for positive change.

When municipalities and partners accomplish urban and community forestry practices and activities in an ordered manner, they enhance the level of management in the community, leading to sustainable program success.

We use the accomplishment of six specific standards to measure and classify the development status of a community’s U&CF program into one of four management classifications. This helps a community measure its progress, celebrate accomplishments, and allows us to best serve each community’s individual needs.

The Urban and Community Forestry Project Financial Assistance Program is designed to help communities climb this sustainable management hierarchy. The program accomplishes this by providing financial assistance and guidance in the development and completion of U&CF projects comprised of urban and community forestry practices and activities. A Request for Applications (RFA) process is offered several times a year to help you plan and apply for these assistance opportunities. Definitions of the practices, activities and project deliverables can be found in the following document: NCFS U&CF FAP Glossary of Deliverables and Requirements

Financial Assistance Program Packages

We offer the following packages of specific practices and activities, each designed to help move a community up the management hierarchy or address a specific need.

  • Climb to Tree City USA Package (Consolidated Program Grant (CPG); Hurricane Helene Recovery (HHR); and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA))
  • Climb to Managing Community Package (Consolidated Program Grant (CPG); Hurricane Helene Recovery (HHR); and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA))
  • Tree Maintenance and Planting Packages: i) Tree maintenance and planting project (Hurricane Helene Recovery (HHR); and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)) and ii) Bad tree bounty project);
  • Professional Staff Development Assistance
  • N.C. Arbor Day Celebration Assistance
  • Special Projects: Climb to Tree City USA Services (Hurricane Helene Recovery (HHR); and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)).

Tree Maintenance and Planting Packages: Tree Maintenance and Planting Project

This assistance package is designed to help municipalities that have achieved Tree City USA standards meet tree maintenance (pruning and removal) and planting needs. This package includes assistance to complete a tree inventory to identify tree maintenance needs and planting sites, develop work plans and complete the tree maintenance and planting. The RFA opens in January each year.

Funding Program Options

A grant will be funded by one of the two funding programs. You will need to select one. (Contact NCFS U&CF program staff for guidance, if needed):

  • Hurricane Helene Recovery (HHR)
  • Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)

Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)

  • 100% of the Tribal government or municipality’s incorporated lands fall within the boundaries of NCFS U&CF Financial Assistance Program Inflation Reduction Act project areas.
  • Cost share %: Reimbursement of 100% of eligible purchased goods and services.
  • Indirect administration – 20% de minimis/total purchased goods and services.
  • $5.6 million of assistance is available for award of all IRA funded RFAs.

Forestry

Private Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Private grants for nonprofits provide funding from foundations, corporations, and individual donors to support programs and operations. The following grants empower organizations to achieve their missions, scale their impact, and address critical community needs effectively.


Search Instrumentl's Private Grants Database


Discover 8,000+ funding opportunities for nonprofits, with $3.34B available. Instrumentl connects nonprofits to tailored grants from private funders, offering tools for tracking deadlines, customized searches, and insights to maximize impact.

Grant Insights : Private Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Quite common — grants in this category are more prevalent than in others.

8,000+ Private grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

3,000+ Private grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

3,000+ Private grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

1,000+ Private grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

7,000+ Private grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Community Services

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Poverty Alleviation & Services

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Private grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
29.7%
Q2
24.7%
Q3
23.5%
Q4
22.1%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Private Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $32,500.

$0 $0 Min.
$32,500 $32.5 K Median
$633,837 $633.8 K Average
$188,250,000 $188.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Nonprofits working in education, healthcare, arts, social services, and the environment may be eligible for private grants. To be considered, organizations need to align with the mission and values of the donor or foundation offering the grant. Funders look for nonprofits that have strong evidence of making a positive impact on their communities and match their values.

Based on Instrumentl’s live grant database for private grants, grant deadlines are most common in Q1, accounting for 29.7% of all submission dates. The slowest period for new grant opportunities in this category falls in Q4, making it a less competitive time for preparation and strategic planning.

The goal of private grants is for individual donors and foundations to support nonprofits who align with their goals. Some grants support specific projects, while others provide general operating funds to help organizations maintain stability and grow. Funders want to back creative projects with positive impact, ensuring their long-term success.

Funding for private grants varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $0 to a maximum of $188,250,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $32,500, while the average grant awarded is $633,837. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

Private grants usually come from independent foundations, family foundations, corporate foundations, and individual donors. Well-known funders include the Ford Foundation, Rockefeller Foundation, and Walton Family Foundation, which support a wide range of causes. Some private grants come from smaller, locally focused foundations. Individual donors, including wealthy philanthropists, also fund private grants to causes they are passionate about.

To improve the chances of being awarded private grants, nonprofits should:

  • Research funders carefully – Get to know private funders by learning about their mission, past grant recipients, and funding priorities.
  • Be clear about your goals and expected results – Outline measurable outcomes, how the funds will be used, and what you hope to achieve. Having a history of success can also make your application more convincing.
  • Show financial responsibility – Prove you have good money management and a plan for long-term financial sustainability beyond the grant.
  • Build connections – Meet with grantmakers through networking events, email introductions, or funder Q&As.

Want to improve your private grant prospecting strategy? Master the process with our guide to private grant research.

Instrumentl simplifies the process of applying for private grants by offering an intuitive platform that helps nonprofits discover relevant funding opportunities, track deadlines, and analyze funder-giving patterns. The platform's automated alerts ensure users never miss a deadline, while detailed funder insights help organizations tailor their applications to align with grantor priorities.

Streamline your grant management process with our workflow automation tools.