Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

The Noxious Weed Management Fund Grant, offered by the Colorado Department of Agriculture, aims to support the eradication and containment of state-listed noxious weeds. This grant provides vital financial resources to cooperatively manage these invasive species, ensuring measurable outcomes across Colorado. It particularly focuses on assisting newly established weed management programs in regions that require additional support, fostering sustainable agricultural practices and protecting native ecosystems.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) was created on July 1, 1970 to combine all state programs designed to protect and enhance the environment into a single agency.

DEC's Mission: "To conserve, improve and protect New York's natural resources and environment and to prevent, abate and control water, land and air pollution, in order to enhance the health, safety and welfare of the people of the state and their overall economic and social well-being."

DEC's goal is to achieve this mission through the simultaneous pursuit of environmental quality, public health, economic prosperity and social well-being, including environmental justice and the empowerment of individuals to participate in environmental decisions that affect their lives.

Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) 

Grant Description

The Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) program is a competitive, statewide reimbursement grant program open to local governments and not-for-profit corporations to implement projects that directly improve water quality or habitat, promote flood risk reduction, restoration, and enhanced flood and climate resiliency, or protect a drinking water source. This funding is for construction/implementation projects, not projects that are exclusively for planning.

Maximum funding awards vary by project type. Program priorities and requirements are also subject to change from year to year. The typical annual funding available for the WQIP program is at least $75 million.

Grant funds are available for up to 75% of the application budget. Applicants must provide the remaining 25% in match funds. Additional information regarding eligible forms of match (eligible costs) is provided under each project type. 

Eligible Project Types

Funding is available for the following project types: 1) Wastewater Treatment Improvement; 2) Nonagricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control; 3) Vacuum Trucks in Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Areas; 4) Land Acquisition for Source Water Protection; 5) Salt Storage and Road Salt Reduction; 6) Dam Safety Repair/Rehabilitation and Removal; 7) Aquatic Connectivity; 8) Marine District Habitat Restoration; 9) Fish and Wildlife Habitat Restoration and Enhancement; 10) Landfill Leachate Treatment

Wastewater Treatment Improvement 

Project Type Description

Funding is available for wastewater treatment improvements to municipal wastewater systems. 

Priority Projects

• Wastewater effluent disinfection for facilities that currently do not have any disinfection.
• Upgrades to municipal systems to meet a DEC-approved watershed implementation plan’s (i.e., Total Maximum Daily Load plan, Nine Element Watershed Management Plan, Harmful Algal Bloom Action Plan, or DEC Action Agenda) nutrient requirements (primarily phosphorus).
• Combined sewer overflow/sanitary sewer overflow (CSO/SSO) projects to upgrade systems to meet CSO or SSO discharge requirements.
• Municipal systems to serve multiple properties with inadequate on-site septic systems

General Wastewater Treatment Improvement

• All other wastewater treatment projects

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) was created on July 1, 1970 to combine all state programs designed to protect and enhance the environment into a single agency.

DEC's Mission: "To conserve, improve and protect New York's natural resources and environment and to prevent, abate and control water, land and air pollution, in order to enhance the health, safety and welfare of the people of the state and their overall economic and social well-being."

DEC's goal is to achieve this mission through the simultaneous pursuit of environmental quality, public health, economic prosperity and social well-being, including environmental justice and the empowerment of individuals to participate in environmental decisions that affect their lives.

Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) 

Grant Description

The Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) program is a competitive, statewide reimbursement grant program open to local governments and not-for-profit corporations to implement projects that directly improve water quality or habitat, promote flood risk reduction, restoration, and enhanced flood and climate resiliency, or protect a drinking water source. This funding is for construction/implementation projects, not projects that are exclusively for planning.

Maximum funding awards vary by project type. Program priorities and requirements are also subject to change from year to year. The typical annual funding available for the WQIP program is at least $75 million.

Grant funds are available for up to 75% of the application budget. Applicants must provide the remaining 25% in match funds. Additional information regarding eligible forms of match (eligible costs) is provided under each project type. 

Eligible Project Types

Funding is available for the following project types: 1) Wastewater Treatment Improvement; 2) Nonagricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control; 3) Vacuum Trucks in Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Areas; 4) Land Acquisition for Source Water Protection; 5) Salt Storage and Road Salt Reduction; 6) Dam Safety Repair/Rehabilitation and Removal; 7) Aquatic Connectivity; 8) Marine District Habitat Restoration; 9) Fish and Wildlife Habitat Restoration and Enhancement; 10) Landfill Leachate Treatment

Vacuum Trucks in Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Areas

Project Type Description

Projects to purchase one vacuum truck to be used in an MS4 area.

The California Community Foundation invites letters of interest for grants aimed at enhancing healthcare access and disease prevention in South L.A.'s Centinela Valley. Established in 1999, the Centinela Medical and Community Funds support organizations that integrate medical and social services while addressing health disparities. With an emphasis on collaboration and advocacy, the funds seek to improve the health and quality of life for local residents, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) was created on July 1, 1970 to combine all state programs designed to protect and enhance the environment into a single agency.

DEC's Mission: "To conserve, improve and protect New York's natural resources and environment and to prevent, abate and control water, land and air pollution, in order to enhance the health, safety and welfare of the people of the state and their overall economic and social well-being."

DEC's goal is to achieve this mission through the simultaneous pursuit of environmental quality, public health, economic prosperity and social well-being, including environmental justice and the empowerment of individuals to participate in environmental decisions that affect their lives.

Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) 

Grant Description

The Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) program is a competitive, statewide reimbursement grant program open to local governments and not-for-profit corporations to implement projects that directly improve water quality or habitat, promote flood risk reduction, restoration, and enhanced flood and climate resiliency, or protect a drinking water source. This funding is for construction/implementation projects, not projects that are exclusively for planning.

Maximum funding awards vary by project type. Program priorities and requirements are also subject to change from year to year. The typical annual funding available for the WQIP program is at least $75 million.

Grant funds are available for up to 75% of the application budget. Applicants must provide the remaining 25% in match funds. Additional information regarding eligible forms of match (eligible costs) is provided under each project type. 

Eligible Project Types

Funding is available for the following project types: 1) Wastewater Treatment Improvement; 2) Nonagricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control; 3) Vacuum Trucks in Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Areas; 4) Land Acquisition for Source Water Protection; 5) Salt Storage and Road Salt Reduction; 6) Dam Safety Repair/Rehabilitation and Removal; 7) Aquatic Connectivity; 8) Marine District Habitat Restoration; 9) Fish and Wildlife Habitat Restoration and Enhancement; 10) Landfill Leachate Treatment

Land Acquisition for Source Water Protection

Project Type Description

Funding is available to purchase land and/or conservation easements, including associated transactional, riparian buffer, or groundwater restoration costs for the purpose of protecting public surface or groundwater drinking water supplies.

Not-for-profit organizations are required to complete the Vendor Prequalification process to be considered eligible to apply for this grant.

The UP Sustainable Forest & Wildlife Grant supports projects that enhance the quality of life in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It aims to fund initiatives focused on research, education, and wildlife habitat improvement, prioritizing collaborative efforts that benefit the public. Grants typically do not exceed $1,000 and are exclusively available to non-profit organizations that serve the local community. Political purposes and operational expenses are ineligible for funding.

The Sidney R. Baer, Jr. Foundation offers Criminal Justice Grants aimed at improving the lives of individuals with serious mental illnesses, particularly schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. With an emphasis on effective programs and support services, the foundation seeks to address the challenges faced by mentally ill individuals in the criminal justice system. The foundation prioritizes organizations that demonstrate a commitment to making a meaningful impact and improving the quality of life for those affected by these conditions.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) was created on July 1, 1970 to combine all state programs designed to protect and enhance the environment into a single agency.

DEC's Mission: "To conserve, improve and protect New York's natural resources and environment and to prevent, abate and control water, land and air pollution, in order to enhance the health, safety and welfare of the people of the state and their overall economic and social well-being."

DEC's goal is to achieve this mission through the simultaneous pursuit of environmental quality, public health, economic prosperity and social well-being, including environmental justice and the empowerment of individuals to participate in environmental decisions that affect their lives.

Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) 

Grant Description

The Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) program is a competitive, statewide reimbursement grant program open to local governments and not-for-profit corporations to implement projects that directly improve water quality or habitat, promote flood risk reduction, restoration, and enhanced flood and climate resiliency, or protect a drinking water source. This funding is for construction/implementation projects, not projects that are exclusively for planning.

Maximum funding awards vary by project type. Program priorities and requirements are also subject to change from year to year. The typical annual funding available for the WQIP program is at least $75 million.

Grant funds are available for up to 75% of the application budget. Applicants must provide the remaining 25% in match funds. Additional information regarding eligible forms of match (eligible costs) is provided under each project type. 

Eligible Project Types

Funding is available for the following project types: 1) Wastewater Treatment Improvement; 2) Nonagricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control; 3) Vacuum Trucks in Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Areas; 4) Land Acquisition for Source Water Protection; 5) Salt Storage and Road Salt Reduction; 6) Dam Safety Repair/Rehabilitation and Removal; 7) Aquatic Connectivity; 8) Marine District Habitat Restoration; 9) Fish and Wildlife Habitat Restoration and Enhancement; 10) Landfill Leachate Treatment

Aquatic Connectivity

Project Type Description

Funding is available for projects that improve aquatic habitat connectivity at road/stream crossings or dams and may promote flood risk reduction and enhanced flood and climate resiliency.

Not-for-profit organizations are required to complete the Vendor Prequalification process to be considered eligible to apply for this grant.

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.

Clean Water Construction Grant Program

The mission of the District of Columbia’s Clean Water Construction (CWC) program is to fund the design and construction of voluntary projects that provide clean water to District streams and rivers.

Clean Water Construction Treatment Works Projects - Notice Of Funding Availability and Request For Partners (RFP)

DOEE seeks to identify collaborative partners for its fiscal year (FY) 2027 Clean Water Construction (CWC) grant application to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Applications are requested for project partners in three categories of work: (1) Sewage Infrastructure Projects, (2) Stormwater Grey Infrastructure Projects, and (3) Stormwater Green Infrastructure Projects. This RFP is competitive.

Clean Water Construction Grant Program - Stormwater Grey Infrastructure Projects

Stormwater Grey Infrastructure Projects prevent or reduce discharge of stormwater pollution from industrial activities at municipal facilities into storm sewers, combined sewer systems, or District waterbodies. Industrial activities include those for which stormwater pollution prevention is required under the Multi-Sector General Permit (MSGP) permit, the District’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer (MS4) permit, or other National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits.

Project examples

• Leachate pretreatment at municipal landfills and trash transfer stations;
• Infrastructure to prevent stormwater from coming into contact with contaminants; and
• Any method, conveyance, equipment, or infrastructure used as part of a system for treating stormwater to remove pollutants.

About the Foundation

The Glass Recycling Foundation was created to help fill gaps in community glass recycling efforts.

Across the country, there exists strong support and consumer desire to recycle glass, but many state and local governments struggle to recover glass due to a lack of investment in glass recycling systems. GRF works to support these efforts by providing matching grants for equipment that helps these communities get started.

Our Vision

To increase recycling through education and best practices to ensure the highest benefit for communities and the environment.

Our Mission

To promote the preservation of the environment through glass recycling through education, grant making and creating pilot programs for effective glass recycling working in collaboration with other trade organizations in the glass recycling value chain. 

Glass Recycling Foundation Grant

New Jersey Department of Health

The scope of work for the public health system is ever-expanding, and the Department is on the frontlines in leading the response to public health challenges. The Department has three primary branches – Public Health Services, Health Systems, and Integrated Health. All work collaboratively toward improving health by strengthening New Jersey’s health system.

Our Mission: Protect the public’s health, promote healthy communities, and continue to improve the quality of health care in New Jersey.

SSUS State STD Program 

Purpose For Which the Grant Program Funds Shall be Used 

Applicants are able to request 1) Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS) staff to conduct disease investigation and intervention activities, also known as Partner Services; AND/OR 2) request funds to provide statewide safety net coverage of STD testing for men and women under 30 years of age that do not have insurance or other means to obtain STD testing; AND/OR 3) expand existing, local health STD clinical services to increase hours of operation and persons served for STD testing and treatment; AND/OR 4) provide integration of STD and HIV Services.

Qualifications Needed By Application To be Considered For a Grant

• The provision of syphilis (and other potential emerging STD needs) field investigation and follow-up. Funding is intended to cover DIS staff salary, fringe and related DIS expenses.

• Expansion of local health STD Clinic services by adding clinical staff that will allow for expanded hours and services.

The Nevada Foundation Seed Program is designed to enhance the availability of high-quality, locally adapted native seeds for restoration efforts in Nevada. With the growing need for native plants due to wildfires, this initiative provides free seeds to producers who agree to return a portion of their yield to create a sustainable seed stock. This program also supports drought-resistant crops and encourages local farming practices to foster ecological resilience.

About the DNR

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

Weed Management Area - Private Forest Grant Program (WMA-PFGP)

The WMA-PFGP assists eligible weed management groups (WMG) in addressing invasive plants, both by dealing directly with the invasives and by providing education, information and outreach to others. This is a reimbursement program that covers up to 75% of the eligible costs, 25% match is required.

The Alaska Clean Water Actions (ACWA) Grants support initiatives aimed at enhancing water quality across Alaska. Established over 20 years ago, ACWA fosters collaboration among state agencies to address pollution through comprehensive watershed planning. This funding opportunity encourages local governments and stakeholders to propose projects that mitigate water quality issues. Notably, this grant cycle eliminates match funding requirements, making it easier for applicants to access necessary resources for green infrastructure projects that manage stormwater runoff.

The Rhode Island Public Safety Grant Administration Office (PSGAO), formerly the Rhode Island Justice Commission, is the agency within the Central Management of the Department of Public Safety charged with planning, coordination, data collection, statistical analysis and grant administration and distribution for the adult criminal and juvenile justice systems. Through these efforts the PSGAO develops comprehensive programming for the purpose of improving the state's overall response to crime issues.

RI Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program

The RI Department of Public Safety Grant Administration Office is pleased to announce the availability of a total of $1,091,901.00 of the BJA FY 2022-2023 Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program Formula Grant. With funding provided by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of Justice Programs (OJP), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), the Rhode Island Department of Public Safety Grants Administration Office seeks applications to fund projects under the Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program (Byrne SCIP). The State Crisis Intervention Program (SCIP) in Rhode Island represents a critical initiative to address gun violence and suicide prevention in the nation's smallest state. Despite its size, Rhode Island faces unique challenges related to firearms, mental health, and public safety across its 5 counties and 39 municipalities.

Proposals should focus on developing a comprehensive training program for law enforcement officers (LEOs), local solicitors, prosecutors, advocates, and other community group/members on ERPO implementation. This program will include:

• Develop and help with the implementation of a model ERPO policy
• Detailed instructions on the ERPO process, from petition filing to firearm retrieval
• Guidance on identifying high-risk individuals and gathering credible evidence
• Role-playing exercises to practice ERPO-related interactions
• Legal updates and case studies to enhance understanding

The Cemala Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in Greensboro by supporting strategic investments in community projects. With an emphasis on early childhood development, transformational spaces, and workforce training, the foundation aims to build a thriving community. Organizations promoting Continuous Quality Improvement are encouraged to apply for funding. This grant is vital for initiatives that address the evolving needs of Greensboro residents and foster sustainable growth.

The Sahee Foundation Grant supports sustainable projects aimed at improving the living conditions of underprivileged communities in Eswatini and Peru. Established in 2006, the foundation prioritizes initiatives aligned with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in education, health, and environmental protection. Sahee emphasizes collaboration with local partners and promotes small, manageable projects that can continue autonomously. This funding opportunity is particularly beneficial for local organizations and groups committed to making a lasting impact.

The Affinity Legacy Community Grant Program aims to enhance health and well-being in underserved communities through funding for organizations focused on mental health, food insecurity, re-entry for formerly incarcerated individuals, and consumer health education. Eligible groups must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities operating within Affinity's 10-county service area. This initiative reflects a commitment to collaboration and compassion, ensuring vital support for those in need.

The Appalachian Landscapes Project Capital Grant, offered by the Open Space Institute, supports vital conservation initiatives aimed at preserving biodiversity and enhancing landscape connectivity. Established in 1974, the OSI has protected over 2.5 million acres in the Eastern US and Canada, focusing on land that ensures clean drinking water and wildlife habitats. This grant is specifically for projects within the Appalachian Landscapes Project service area, promoting sustainable community benefits.

The ACT on Health Equity Community Solutions Challenge Grant, backed by the Astrazeneca Foundation, aims to enhance health equity by funding community-based nonprofit programs. Since its inception in 2021, it has allocated over $2.6 million to initiatives addressing nutrition, healthcare access, and lung health for historically marginalized populations. Eligible US-based 501(c) organizations can apply, with a focus on projects serving underserved communities and improving health outcomes through targeted support.

Maryland Forestry Foundation

The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and a member of the Maryland Association of Forest Conservancy District Boards. We act as the fiscal agent for several programs of the 24 local Forestry Boards and provide important tax deductibility for their donors.

From advocating for innovative legislation that impacts Forestry in Maryland to overseeing Maryland's largest private property tree-planting operation, we're committed to making a greener and healthier future. We also actively support Urban Forestry programs, nurture the next generation of environmental leaders with the largest college fellowships in Natural Resources in the mid-Atlantic, and serve as the fiduciary agent for programs like the Natural Resources Careers Camp for high school students and the Maryland Urban & Community Forest grant program.

MDOT Urban Tree Grant Program

The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) has joined forces with the Maryland Urban & Community Forest Committee (MUCFC) and the Maryland Forestry Foundation to provide grants aimed at bolstering the preservation and enrichment of Maryland's urban tree cover and forest ecosystems. MDOT's grant initiative specifically targets areas affected by the construction of transportation facilities, with a particular focus on those grappling with heat island effects or environmental justice concerns.

The Amazon Loudoun County Community Fund Grant, a $150,000 initiative by Amazon and the Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier, aims to empower local nonprofits and organizations. This program supports transformative projects that enhance inclusion, resilience, and community well-being in Loudoun. Grants ranging from $500 to $10,000 will address critical areas such as health, food security, and homelessness, fostering a strong and connected community for residents.

The Chesapeake Bay Small Watershed Grants, offered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the EPA, aim to enhance water quality and restore vital habitats in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Funding is available through two programs: SWG Implementation grants for direct on-the-ground actions, and SWG Planning and Technical Assistance grants to support community-based efforts. Projects must align with specific program priorities to qualify for funding.

What We Do

Since our creation by Congress in 1984, NFWF has grown to become the nation’s largest private conservation foundation. We work with both the public and private sectors to protect and restore our nation’s fish, wildlife, plants and habitats for current and future generations.

NFWF supports conservation efforts across all 50 states and U.S. territories. Since our founding, we've funded over 23,300 rigorously evaluated projects, awarded to both large environmental organizations and small local initiatives. We do not fund advocacy or litigation, and do not conduct membership campaigns. Instead, we focus on achieving results and building a better future for our world.

Chesapeake Bay Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction Grants

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the federal-state Chesapeake Bay Program (CBP) partnership, is soliciting pre-proposals through the Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction (INSR) Grants program to improve water quality and reduce nutrient and sediment pollution to the Chesapeake Bay and its tributary rivers and streams. Major funding for the INSR Grants program is provided by EPA, with other important contributions from Altria Group, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and the U.S. Forest Service. 

Otto Bremer Trust Community Responsive Fund

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation is partnering with the Otto Bremer Trust to deliver $525,000 in grant funding to organizations across Northwest Minnesota through the 2026 Community Responsive Fund.

Funding priorities and eligibility criteria for this program are established by Otto Bremer Trust and focus on supporting organizations that provide essential, direct services to meet basic needs in our communities.

Funding Priorities

Food:

• Programs that directly operate meal sites or food pantries to meet daily needs

Shelter:

• Short-term or emergency shelter for individuals experiencing housing instability or homelessness

Low-Income Healthcare Clinics:

• Affordable medical, dental, or mental health services for uninsured or underinsured individuals

Disability Services:

• Programs supporting individuals with physical and/or cognitive disabilities

School-Based Mental Health:

• Established mental health services delivered within school settings

Award period: One-year

• Maximum grant amount: $75,000
• Available funding: $525,000

The Community Waste Reduction and Recycling (CWRAR) Grant Program invites local governments to submit proposals for funding up to $30,000 to enhance waste reduction and recycling initiatives. This program aims to support local governments in building capacity to divert materials from waste streams and promote public awareness of recycling. Joint projects and multi-type funding requests are encouraged, with a mandatory cash match of 20% of the grant request. Proposals are now being accepted for the 2025 cycle.

The DEEP Clean Water Act Section 319 Nonpoint Source Grants program invites proposals for FY25 to combat nonpoint source water pollution. Funded by the EPA, these grants support projects aimed at improving water quality through community engagement and environmental justice initiatives. A 40% match from non-federal sources is required. Priority is given to projects benefiting environmental justice communities in Connecticut, addressing critical environmental issues and fostering equity.