Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

About

The Greater New Orleans Foundation is the philanthropic institution dedicated to driving positive impact through philanthropy, leadership, and action in the Greater New Orleans Region.

Our roots extend back to the Community Chest of New Orleans established in 1923. For 100 years, we’ve connected our donors and fundholders with causes that they’re passionate about to affect transformational change. It’s how we help people make the most of their investment, while helping the members of our communities that need it most.

Kahn-Oppenheim Trust (A total of $155,000 Available)

Funding for the development and/or improvement of public health outreach and education programs to inform people about ways to prevent diseases like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, HIV/AIDS, and others, insofar as these programs involve physical, nutritional, or dietary regimens.

The average grant size is $20,000; grants may be larger or smaller.

The Maryland Nita M. Lowey 21st CCLC Grant, administered by the Maryland State Department of Education, aims to support local education agencies and community organizations in providing after-school academic enrichment programs. This grant focuses on assisting students from low-performing schools to meet academic standards while offering additional services such as youth development, substance abuse prevention, and family literacy opportunities. Grants range from $50,000 to $400,000, enhancing educational and community engagement.

The NHLBI Career Transition Award (K22) program supports postdoctoral fellows in transitioning their research to extramural institutions. The program includes a mentored intramural phase (up to two years) followed by an extramural phase (three years), totaling five years of support. Applications have multiple deadlines, including October 12, 2024, and February 12, 2025, among others. Successful transition depends on the awardee's progress during the mentored phase, evaluated by NHLBI.

The Heart of Cook Grants support non-profit organizations, schools, and government units in furthering education, enhancing human services, and protecting the environment within Southwest Michigan and Northwest Indiana. With funding priorities focused on skill development, community independence, and environmental restoration, the grants aim to foster local leadership and innovative solutions. Eligible applicants may submit one application per cycle, with particular attention given to measurable outcomes and projects addressing emerging community needs.

The Department of Natural Resources’ Watershed and Climate Services Grants Gateway

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Watershed & Climate Services (WCS) is committed to providing technical and financial assistance to Maryland’s communities that are challenged by intense storms, changing sea levels and increasing flooding, while balancing growing populations, economic growth, and increased tourism and recreation. These trends make the already challenging task of restoring the Chesapeake Bay, safeguarding people and infrastructure and managing natural resources even more complex.

Grants Gateway provides a resource for partners seeking technical and financial support for projects that foster healthy and resilient ecosystems, communities, and economies. Grants Gateway provides a centralized hub to streamline the grant application process for governments, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations.

Eligible projects across six programs (as above) will improve water quality, restore local waterways, increase community flood planning, develop the next generation of environmental stewards, improve shorelines, and plan for beneficial reuse.

Resilience through Restoration Initiative

Design habitat restoration projects to address erosion and flooding in communities and on public lands.

This funding opportunity supports design/permitting of restoration projects.

The Resilience through Restoration Initiative supports on-the-ground implementation of restoration projects to help protect communities from erosion, flooding, and other climate change impacts. The goal of this program is to reduce Maryland’s vulnerabilities and enhance resiliency of local communities, economies, and natural resources.

Projects can be located throughout Maryland. Public and private lands are eligible, but projects on private lands must demonstrate a community-wide benefit and provide an access/landowner agreement.

The Harvey Community Investment Grants, facilitated by the Harvey County United Way, aim to empower local non-profit and community organizations by funding programs focused on education, health, and income stability. With over 65 years of experience, the organization emphasizes measurable outcomes and sustainable impacts. Grant applicants must demonstrate a clear community need, illustrating their program's effectiveness in addressing issues like educational access, health care, and financial stability for residents. The initiative underscores a partnership approach, ensuring ongoing support beyond the grant.

The Greater Lynchburg Community Foundation offers competitive grants to enhance the quality of life in Lynchburg and surrounding counties. With a focus on various sectors such as the arts, education, and health, these grants support innovative projects that address community needs. Tax-exempt organizations with a 501(c)(3) classification are eligible to apply, with a preference for proposals that promise significant impact with moderate funding. This initiative aims to foster self-reliance and community engagement.

The Perot-Fiero Foundation Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, aims to enhance community welfare by supporting 501(c)(3) organizations and churches in Macon-Bibb County. Focus areas include tutoring, meal programs, transportation, and assistance for the physically or mentally disabled. With a total of approximately $40,000 available per grant cycle, the fund seeks to empower local organizations committed to fostering strong, thriving communities through targeted philanthropic efforts.

The Adelard A. and Valeda Lea Roy Foundation Grant focuses on supporting organizations in arts, education, health, and environmental sectors, especially in underserved communities in Massachusetts and Northern New England. Grants typically range from $2,500 to $10,000, with an emphasis on projects that address food security, housing, and cultural access for disadvantaged populations. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that align with its current funding priorities, particularly benefiting low-income youth, Indigenous communities, and immigrants.

The Keystone Savings Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Lehigh Valley, focusing on education, health services, arts, community development, and economic growth. Grants under $25,000 are reviewed quarterly, with funding for programs, operations, and capital projects. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations within specified counties and can only apply once per year. Ineligible projects include fundraising events and salary support. Visit the Foundation's website for more details.

The Fred C. & Katherine B. Andersen Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the St. Croix Valley of Minnesota and Wisconsin. It supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations with priorities in healthcare, education, housing, human services, civic initiatives, and environmental education. While capital requests may be considered, the foundation primarily funds operational and programmatic needs. Organizations outside the geographic area may be considered if they align with the foundation's funding priorities.

The WA AmeriCorps Continuation Grants support organizations entering the second or third year of a three-year operational grant cycle. This funding opportunity is geared towards organizations already funded by Serve Washington, allowing them to recompete for continued support. It is not intended for new applicants or those seeking funding for programs not previously supported. Focus areas include disaster services, economic opportunity, education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, and support for veterans.

The Self Family Foundation Grant aims to strengthen communities in Greenwood, South Carolina, through strategic funding in education, community development, and access to arts and culture. This grant particularly focuses on early childhood development programs and promotes health, wellness, and cultural preservation initiatives. Organizations interested in applying must ensure alignment with the foundation's mission and adhere to its conflict of interest policy, as the foundation does not fund individuals or provide loans.

The Scott Hudgens Family Foundation Grant, established in memory of World War II veteran Scott Hudgens, supports public charities addressing the needs of Gwinnett County, Georgia, and the metropolitan Atlanta area. The foundation focuses on improving the lives of those facing socio-economic disadvantages, promoting self-sufficiency through educational initiatives, and considering capital contributions for long-term impact. Grants are limited to qualified public charities, with a review of one proposal per year per organization.

The Regions Community Engagement Grant aims to foster inclusive prosperity by partnering with nonprofit organizations, local businesses, and government agencies. With over 165 years of experience, Regions Bank and Regions Foundation prioritize economic development, education, and financial wellness. This initiative addresses social and economic challenges, helping communities thrive. By focusing on impactful projects, they strive to create pathways to financial stability and support organizations that align with their mission of building inclusive growth.

The Jefferson Health Care Foundation Fund aims to enhance healthcare and well-being for Jefferson County residents. With funding requests up to $100,000, projects focusing on major medical equipment purchases or capital improvements will be prioritized. The fund encourages innovation in addressing healthcare challenges, especially for low-income and underserved populations. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) charities and educational institutions, while proposals must directly benefit Jefferson County's health needs.

The WA New & Recompete AmeriCorps Operational Grant supports organizations ready to launch or renew AmeriCorps programs, enhancing national service and community engagement in Washington. This funding is ideal for new applicants or those completing a three-year grant cycle. It focuses on impactful service areas such as disaster relief, education, and economic opportunity, aiming to strengthen community resilience and address local needs effectively.

The VA AmeriCorps State Formula Planning Grant supports developing frameworks for AmeriCorps programs aimed at addressing community needs. With awards ranging from $75,000 to $240,000, these grants provide essential resources and technical assistance to organizations looking to enhance their service delivery. AmeriCorps programs focus on various areas, including disaster services, education, economic opportunity, health, environmental stewardship, and support for veterans. This initiative fosters collaboration among nonprofits and government bodies to strengthen community impact.

The VA AmeriCorps State Formula Grant supports programs that engage members in evidence-based interventions to strengthen communities. Managed by Serve Virginia, these grants can provide up to $27,000 per full-time AmeriCorps Member Service Year, with no cap on the number of members. AmeriCorps focuses on enhancing educational outcomes, promoting economic opportunity, and addressing community health needs, thereby fostering a culture of service and volunteerism across Virginia.

The Andrew Mitchell Memorial Scholarship supports Maine residents pursuing vocational or technical education, including community college programs. This scholarship is aimed at nontraditional students who face unique challenges in continuing their education. Eligible applicants must meet specific criteria, such as being over 25 or financially independent. The fund encourages applicants to utilize college preparation resources and demonstrates a commitment to remain in Maine after their studies. This scholarship honors Andrew Mitchell, a dedicated technician and outdoorsman.

The Kirkpatrick Foundation, a private foundation in Oklahoma City since 1955, focuses on enhancing quality of life through grants in arts, culture, education, animal wellbeing, environmental conservation, and historic preservation. It supports eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits, emphasizing community impact in the Oklahoma City area. The foundation seeks to empower organizations that contribute to the cultural and educational fabric of the region while ensuring the humane treatment of animals and environmental stewardship.

The La Crescent Community Foundation, established in 1995, aims to enhance the quality of life in the La Crescent area through targeted grants. It supports various community projects, including park improvements and educational initiatives, while prioritizing organizations that uphold non-discrimination policies. The Foundation's grants focus on local needs, with a preference for applications from schools and local government agencies. Recent efforts include funding for a new event center, demonstrating a commitment to community development.

The Forest Foundation supports nonprofits in Southwest Washington, focusing on Tacoma and Pierce County. They prioritize community engagement and initiatives that strengthen local quality of life. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) entities based in Washington or Oregon, with funding aimed at projects promoting self-sufficiency, youth development, environmental stewardship, and cultural enrichment. Specific capital project guidelines are in place, excluding proposals for new construction or lobbying efforts.

The Summit Foundation Grant aims to support various community needs in the Summit area, focusing on education, health, arts, and assistance for individuals with disabilities. The foundation encourages local nonprofits to apply for competitive grants to fund specific programs and initiatives that enhance community welfare. Eligibility requires organizations to be tax-exempt and serve Summit area residents. However, the foundation does not fund general operating support or religious programs. The goal is to create a positive impact on local communities.

The ND 2025-26 AmeriCorps Formula Fund supports community service initiatives through grants provided by the North Dakota Department of Commerce. Eligible organizations, including nonprofits and government entities, can apply for funding to enhance civic engagement in areas like education and disaster services. Participants may receive benefits such as living allowances and education awards, with a required grantee match that escalates over time, fostering long-term community investment.

The Reuter Family Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations providing essential human services to the poor and disadvantaged in Collin County and Dallas, Texas. Founded in 2011, the foundation emphasizes emergency assistance, affordable housing, and rehabilitation services. Grants typically do not exceed $100,000 annually, and the foundation aims to engage with grantees directly. Eligible projects include support for displaced individuals and programs addressing substance abuse and mental health challenges.

The Central America Grant Program by the Rockefeller Brothers Fund aims to foster democratic governance, social justice, and sustainable development in Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. This initiative supports organizations addressing systemic issues, enhancing civic participation and transparency, and promoting reconciliation. Focused on young democracies, the program emphasizes collaboration with the U.S. to tackle the region's challenges, such as corruption and climate change, while leveraging the cultural diversity of Central America to build a prosperous future.