Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

The Cambridge Savings Charitable Foundation has been enhancing community life since 2003, granting over $12.5 million to non-profits in areas like Acton and Boston. They focus on human services, affordable housing, and community development, specifically targeting organizations that benefit the community directly. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) non-profits serving the specified communities, and only one grant is awarded per organization annually.

The Greater Milwaukee Foundation's GMF: Cycle 3 - Project Support offers grants up to $50,000 per year for three years, targeting projects that promote arts, culture, and racial equity. This funding supports nonprofits that enhance community engagement, particularly in underserved neighborhoods, and focuses on improving health outcomes, fostering intergenerational support, and enhancing early childhood education. Organizations must have diverse boards and demonstrate a commitment to racial equity to be eligible.

The Nexteer Steering the Future Fund, managed by the Saginaw Community Foundation, supports 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. With grants up to $2,500, it aims to enhance community well-being through initiatives that foster diversity, innovation, and education. Applicants must have a Nexteer Project Sponsor and demonstrate community involvement, workforce development, and sustainability efforts. This fund exemplifies Nexteer's commitment to strengthening the communities where they operate and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

Greene County Community Foundation

The Greene County Community Foundation (GCCF) was established on January 31, 2005 to serve and enhance the quality of life in Greene County.

The mission of the Greene County Community Foundation (the “Foundation”) is to foster private giving, strengthen service providers and improve the overall well-being of the county’s residents. The Foundation works to build its endowment fund which in turn provides grants to accomplish its goals. 

Greene County Community Foundation Grant

If you can help us with these goals, we encourage you to submit a grant application that does one of the following:

• Supports strong, stable families and provides solid beginnings for children and youth.
• Serves as a catalyst for youth and recreational activities.
• Helps to promote elder care, support services and an active senior population.
• Promotes the health, education and vitality of the community.
• Addresses community needs for police, fire and emergency services.
• Assists in developing quality jobs, tourism and economic development.
• Helps make our community more attractive, livable and cohesive.

Grant awards are generally made once per year in April. Representatives will be encouraged to attend the Greene County Community Foundation Awards Night and must acknowledge the Foundation in project publicity & marketing related to the project for which they receive funds.

Grant recipients are required to complete a Project Completion Form by January 31st of the year following the year of the award. If they fail to do this, the recipients will not be eligible to receive additional grants from the Foundation.

The Washington Trust Charitable Foundation offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and southeastern Connecticut. They focus on funding programs that enhance affordable housing, economic development, youth services, health, arts, and environmental initiatives. Multi-year grants may support capital projects and campaigns that directly benefit local communities. The foundation emphasizes projects that align with their mission to improve the quality of life in the areas they serve.

Pulitzer Center

The Pulitzer Center has a bold vision: to be the venue for the world’s most innovative and consequential reporting, with journalism as the key element for mobilizing society through audience engagement strategies.

Founded in 2006 by Jon Sawyer, the Center is an essential source of support for enterprise reporting in the United States and across the globe. The thousands of journalists and educators who are part of our networks span more than 80 countries. Our work reaches tens of millions of people each year through our news-media partners and an audience-centered strategy of global and regional engagement.

Africa - Impact Seed Fund

Themes:

• Climate & Labor
• Rainforest
• Transparency and Governance
• Ocean

The Impact Seed Funding (ISF) is a micro-scale education grant that aims to support a range of education activities that can enrich the perspectives and knowledge on the socio-ecological challenges, solutions, and innovation about issues of rainforest, oceans, climate and labor crisis impact to the university/school community, specifically students and educators.

The main objective of the grant is to cultivate more curious, informed, empathetic communities on the underreported issues of Oceans and Climate change. Ultimately it aims to inspire change of perspectives, narratives, and actions amongst the communities. The Africa ISF projects will put the Pulitzer Center’s Climate & Labor, Rainforest, Transparency and Governance as well as Oceans Reporting Network (ORN) stories at the center of its engagement and activities. 

The Africa ISF will provide micro-scale grants to:

• Initiate new collaborations or develop existing collaborations among teachers, researchers, students, and journalists;
• Increase engagement between education communities, journalists, and local communities;
• Stimulate the use of creative visuals (e.g., comics, animated videos, photos, short videos, documentary, podcasts), data visuals and information from the reportages in teaching materials, student activities, curriculum and class materials, or scientific publications;
• Stimulate the introduction and promotion of DEI friendly tools in teaching materials, student activities, curriculum and scientific publications. (DEI = Diversity, Equity and Inclusion). Gender equality and Handicap issues among young students to be prioritized.
• Facilitate the adoption of featured findings in the reportages to relevant research and other scientific products.

Requirements

• The project must center around the stories reported by the Rainforest Grantees and Fellows or Climate & Labor grantees;
• The activity must showcase an intended impact towards the audience of the academic/school community (students or Fellow lecturers/researchers), or civil society;
• The project must be implemented in consultation with the relevant Pulitzer Center’s grantees or Fellows;
• The project must demonstrate a strong Diversity, Equity and Inclusion approach;
• Applicants must deliver financial and narrative reports at the end of the grant period, detailing costs and results. 

Type of Activities

Examples of successful ISF grant activities and outputs may include, but are not limited to:

Student Engagement:

• Insertion in teaching materials, on-campus debates, social issues hackathons, student-led debates and dialogues
• Visuals production and dissemination (short videos, documentary, podcast, content);
• On-campus mini exhibition
• Journalism workshop for student press clubs

Mobility/local Community Engagement:

• Knowledge exchange activities, student visits, biodiversity expeditions, citizen journalism 

Support for Research Activities:

• Data adoption to improve ongoing research accuracy, insertion of data or knowledge in a book chapter

The Montana Coal Endowment Program offers emergency grants to address critical infrastructure needs, supporting projects like drinking water and wastewater systems. With $100,000 allocated per biennium, these grants are available year-round, provided they address unforeseen emergencies that threaten public health or safety. Projects must be essential and cannot be for preventive maintenance. Typically, grants are capped at $30,000, ensuring timely resolutions to urgent infrastructure challenges.

The CNX Foundation Grant aims to enhance the Appalachian region through strategic investments totaling $30 million. With a focus on sustainability and community development, the grant addresses pressing socio-economic challenges such as food insecurity, health and wellness for children, and technological access. By fostering local initiatives, CNX Foundation aspires to create measurable impacts that uplift communities and promote long-term growth, embodying their commitment to environmental, social, and governance principles.

Speedway Children's Charities (SCC) is committed to improving the lives of children in Sonoma County by providing essential support through grants to local nonprofit organizations. With a focus on vulnerable children facing challenges such as homelessness and food insecurity, SCC has distributed $180,000 in 2024 alone. By fostering community partnerships, SCC empowers the next generation, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive and succeed, regardless of their circumstances.

The Arts Legacy Grants - Regular program, managed by the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council, provides funding for art projects that enhance local artists and engage communities in Region 1. Grants range from $3,000 to $10,000, requiring a 10% cash match. Projects must be completed within 24 months and support public art initiatives. Eligible applicants include individuals and non-profit organizations within the specified counties of northwestern Minnesota.

The Duke Energy Foundation offers Local Impact Grants of up to $20,000 to support initiatives in vibrant economies, climate resiliency, and equity. These grants aim to enhance community well-being through workforce development, environmental projects, and inclusive programs. Open year-round, the grants prioritize organizations serving Ohio counties where Duke Energy operates, fostering sustainable growth and opportunity for underrepresented populations.

The Small Communities Grant Program by the Blandin Foundation aims to empower Minnesota's smallest, most diverse, and economically challenged communities by providing essential funding for projects that enhance community well-being. By fostering collaboration and trust among residents, the program seeks to drive meaningful economic, social, and physical changes. Grant awards typically range from $25,000 to $150,000, with a focus on sustainable initiatives that build local capacity and pride.

The Duke Energy Foundation offers Local Impact Grants of up to $20,000 aimed at supporting vibrant economies, climate resiliency, and justice, equity, and inclusion in Kentucky. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and serve Duke Energy communities, focusing on workforce development, environmental projects, and initiatives promoting access to opportunities for underserved populations. The grants are open year-round, encouraging impactful projects that foster community improvement and sustainability.

The Lawson’s Finest Taproom was designed as a community gathering space to enjoy the best of local beer, food, people and music. In lieu of tips in our Taproom, we invite our guests to donate to the Sunshine Fund to benefit local nonprofits. Our staff receive generous wages and total compensation packages that don’t require tips to supplement their income, making hospitality included in your guest experience. The Sunshine Fund allows us to harness the generosity of guest donations with the goal of advancing thriving local communities.

The Sunshine Fund is the heart of the Lawson’s Finest Social Impact Program to assist local organizations that support the people and environment of the Mad River Valley, Washington County and the state of Vermont.

The Sunshine Awards prioritize funding for nonprofit organizations located in the Mad River Valley, Washington County, and across Vermont that focus on strengthening healthy communities, improving food and economic security, protecting natural resources, and promoting sustainable recreation. 

The Dale Jr. Foundation, founded by NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt Jr., has raised over $8 million since 2007 to support various charities focusing on youth and underprivileged communities. The foundation emphasizes empowerment, education, wellness, hunger relief, and hope, aiming to provide resources that enhance confidence and opportunities for children facing hardships. Through fundraising efforts and partnerships with organizations like Make-A-Wish, the foundation strives to positively impact lives and foster a sense of normalcy among children in need.

The Duke Energy Foundation provides Local Impact Grants to strengthen communities in North Carolina, offering up to $20,000 for various initiatives. These include workforce development, climate resiliency projects, and promoting inclusivity. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status, serve Duke Energy communities, and demonstrate measurable impacts. The Foundation prioritizes grants that support economic recovery, environmental conservation, and equitable access to opportunities, thus fostering sustainable growth and resilience across the state.

The Hall Family Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in Kansas City by funding initiatives that elevate community spirit, promote equity, and create strong educational foundations. Prioritizing economic opportunities for marginalized communities, the foundation supports projects that foster inclusivity and holistic approaches to poverty reduction. With a commitment to innovative and collaborative efforts, the foundation aims to ensure that all community members can realize their potential and thrive.

The COMNAP Antarctic Research Fellowship supports early-career researchers and professionals in their pursuit of Antarctic research. This initiative, backed by the Council of Managers of National Antarctic Programs, aims to enhance international collaboration in climate, biodiversity, and conservation studies. Eligible applicants include those within five years of obtaining their highest degree or under 40 years of age. The fellowship encourages innovative projects aligned with COMNAP's objectives, fostering vital scientific contributions to our understanding of the Antarctic region.

The California Investment and Innovation Fund (Cal IIP) Program aims to strengthen community development financial institutions (CDFIs) by providing grants to enhance their capacity to assist economically-disadvantaged communities. Funding is tiered based on the number of loans closed, with grants up to $200,000 available for eligible applicants. This initiative supports various community needs, including affordable housing and small business development, ultimately promoting economic stability and growth in California.

The Greater Grand Island Community Foundation offers grants up to $10,000 to address unmet charitable needs in Hall County. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) entities and governmental agencies. The foundation focuses on a variety of sectors, including arts, education, health, and community enrichment. Priority is given to programs that reach underserved populations and demonstrate community engagement. Applicants must contact the foundation before proposal submission and may only apply once every 12 months.

The C.H. Robinson Foundation's Twin Cities Grants Program, established in 2005, focuses on enhancing local communities through grants that support basic needs such as hunger, shelter, education, and workforce development. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities and serve the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. The program prioritizes initiatives that address food insecurity, provide housing solutions, and improve educational opportunities, ultimately aiming to foster a stronger, more resilient community.

The Montana Coal Endowment Program (MCEP) provides essential grants to support local infrastructure projects, focusing on drinking water, wastewater, solid waste, and bridge improvements. These state-funded grants help municipalities address critical health and safety concerns while promoting financial efficiency. Applicants are required to match funding dollar-for-dollar, with maximum grants reaching up to $750,000. By alleviating construction costs, MCEP enhances the affordability and quality of public facilities across Montana.

The W.R. & Floy A. Sauey Family Foundation, established in 1998, aims to enhance community welfare through philanthropy. It prioritizes local charities that support child and family issues, particularly in areas where Nordic Group Member Companies operate. The foundation seeks to create lasting impacts by funding initiatives that directly benefit the families associated with these companies, fostering a stronger quality of life in the communities served.

The Investors Foundation Grant aims to create positive, lasting impacts in communities through support for arts, education, health and human services, youth programs, and affordable housing. With over $40 million awarded since 2005, the Foundation aligns its efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on key areas such as poverty alleviation and quality education. Organizations eligible for grants must be 501(c)(3) compliant and serve specific communities in New Jersey and New York.

The Alvah H. and Wyline P. Chapman Foundation offers grants to support charitable, educational, and community-focused initiatives, primarily in Florida and Georgia. Eligible applicants must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations. The foundation prioritizes projects that address children's welfare, education, multicultural understanding, substance abuse prevention, and homelessness. Grants typically do not exceed $15,000, and proposals must be endorsed by a Foundation Director. Interested parties should submit a Letter of Inquiry for consideration.

Speedway Children's Charities (SCC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to supporting children in need across various communities. Through local chapters, SCC addresses unique challenges such as homelessness, foster care, and health issues by providing funding to non-profit organizations focused on children's welfare. Priority is given to applications from organizations aiding the homeless and victims of trafficking. SCC aims to ensure every child has equal opportunities regardless of their circumstances.

The Reliant Foundation Community Grants support charitable initiatives from 501(c)3 non-profits in Central and MetroWest Massachusetts. Priority is given to programs addressing substance use disorders and mental health services for youth. Collaborations aligned with Community Health Improvement Plans are encouraged. Grants are not available for individuals, for-profit businesses, or funding specific salaries. This initiative aims to enhance the health and wellbeing of all community members.