Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

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.

The Safe, Clean Water and Natural Flood Protection Mini-Grants program by Valley Water supports community-led projects in Santa Clara County focused on safe drinking water, conservation, and flood protection. With grants up to $10,000 and no matching funds required, the program aims to empower diverse organizations to implement impactful projects. Recent updates streamline the application process and expand eligible costs, making it easier for community members to contribute to environmental stewardship and public benefit.

The Community Forest and Open Space Conservation Program, offered by the USDA Forest Service, aims to support Indian Tribes, local governments, and qualified non-profits in acquiring private forest lands to establish community forests. This competitive grant program focuses on protecting forestland from non-forest uses while enhancing public access and community benefits such as recreation and education. Applications are due by October 13, 2026, requiring coordination with State Foresters or Tribal officials.

The RIC Foundation's Catalyst Grants program aims to support innovative initiatives that catalyze change in Rhode Island. By prioritizing collaborations among organizations, the program addresses essential community priorities while emphasizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and access. Grants are available to state and local governments, academic institutions, and nonprofit organizations, focusing on systemic inequities. Applications are accepted annually, with a single grant awarded per cycle, fostering impactful partnerships for lasting progress.

The Douglas County Philip S. Miller Competitive Grants program supports 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations providing vital services to enhance the quality of life for Douglas County residents. With funding ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, the program prioritizes initiatives that address self-sufficiency, youth at risk, and mental health services. Eligible nonprofits must be registered in Colorado and significantly serve the Douglas County community, ensuring a positive impact on local residents.

The Nemaha County STEP Foundation aims to enhance life quality in Nemaha County by fostering philanthropy to create a lasting endowment. This fund will address evolving community needs and support cultural, educational, and health initiatives. We encourage local non-profits to apply for grants focused on various areas, including arts, education, and health care, to help make Nemaha County a vibrant place to live and work.

The Community Foundation of West Alabama offers community grants aimed at supporting charitable initiatives in various sectors including arts, education, health, and social welfare. Established in 1999, the foundation prioritizes projects that address critical community needs and foster collaboration. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations in specific Alabama counties, but do not fund individuals or religious purposes. The foundation prefers requests that demonstrate clear impact and sustainable financial planning.

The Central Montcalm Community Foundation offers various scholarships aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for local students. Scholarships like the Dr. Victor Beal Jr. Scholarship and the Ronald R. Burkholder Athletic and Educational Scholarship focus on academic achievement and community involvement. With funding sourced from endowed funds, these scholarships support students pursuing further education at colleges and universities, ensuring a lasting impact on the community's youth and fostering a culture of academic excellence and service.

National Geographic Society: Request for Proposals

Award Overview

The National Geographic Society (NGS) is pleased to announce a Request for Proposals (RFP) for academic researchers and graduate students investigating topics related to geography education in select states and locations. Awards of up to $10,000 (for researchers) and $5,000 (for graduate students) are available to support research projects.

At NGS we spark curiosity, empower exploration, and inspire change. We fund inspiring changemakers around the world who use the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. 

We welcome submissions from researchers across disciplines but successful proposals must include research related to educational approaches or processes including but not limited to specific learning activities, learning outcomes, or educational tools that advance knowledge. Research that illuminates barriers and/or advances access for those farthest from opportunity is encouraged. 

Research proposals should generate new knowledge, and can either be new or scaled up versions of existing successful projects (e.g. evaluating a different group of learners or geographic area). 

The Edison Scholars Program, sponsored by Edison International, offers $12,500 annually to thirty high school seniors pursuing degrees in STEM fields at accredited U.S. colleges. This renewable scholarship supports students who demonstrate financial need and reside in Southern California Edison’s service territory. Scholars also gain access to a paid summer internship after their first year. Eligible majors include engineering, mathematics, and computer sciences, fostering the next generation of innovators and leaders.

The Kirkpatrick Family Fund offers large grants over $15,000 to nonprofit organizations in central Oklahoma and the Pikes Peak region. It focuses on projects that enhance arts, education, health, and community well-being. Applicants must demonstrate measurable outcomes and align with the foundation's mission. Prioritization is given to organizations with a broad community impact and innovative programming. Note that requests for ongoing support or capital projects are not eligible. A Letter of Intent is required one month prior to the application deadline.

The Community Stewardship Fund Grant, provided by the Community Foundation of Kankakee River Valley, aims to enhance the quality of life in Kankakee and Iroquois Counties by awarding $6,500 to nonprofit organizations. This fund seeks to address evolving community needs by funding impactful projects that are actionable and clearly communicated. Eligible organizations must hold 501(c)(3) status and operate within the Greater Kankakee River Valley area, prioritizing categories such as education, health, and community services.

The Local Environment Fund, managed by the Trust for Oxfordshire's Environment, offers financial support for community-driven nature recovery projects in Oxfordshire and Berkshire. This initiative aims to enhance biodiversity, promote public engagement with nature, and ensure accessibility to local green spaces for all, including those with mobility challenges. Grants focus on projects that foster awareness of the natural world, benefiting both wildlife and community members.

The Grants for Greater Manhattan program supports initiatives in arts, humanities, education, health care, and community development, primarily benefiting residents of Manhattan and Riley County, Kansas. It prioritizes funding for activities requiring ongoing support but excludes school gardening projects and requests from for-profit organizations, unless for scholarships or free services for low-income individuals. This grant aims to enhance the quality of life and community engagement across various sectors.

The Chaney Family Foundation Grants aim to enhance the welfare of children and families while promoting public safety in Barry County, Missouri; Cabell County, West Virginia; and Jackson & Josephine Counties, Oregon. Grants up to $15,000 are available for West Virginia organizations, while those in Oregon and Missouri can apply for up to $10,000, focusing on human services, faith-based programs, and public safety initiatives.

The GreenState Foundation Grant aims to empower communities through initiatives focused on Financial Education, Housing, and Children's Health. By supporting local 501(c)3 nonprofits, the foundation seeks to enhance financial literacy, provide affordable housing solutions, and promote the health of youth. With a commitment to improving quality of life, the foundation invites grant applications that align with its mission, emphasizing community-driven projects that foster sustainable growth and well-being for all.

The Robert E & Evelyn McKee Foundation Grant focuses on charitable purposes, primarily supporting organizations that qualify under 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code. It awards funds in various areas including civic, cultural, education, healthcare, and youth activities. Eligible recipients are local charities and certain selected colleges for scholarships. However, the foundation does not fund other foundations, organizations outside the U.S., or individual financial aid. Awards are guided by IRS minimum requirements.

The South32 Hermosa Community Fund Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Santa Cruz County, Arizona, focusing on education, economic participation, health, and natural resource resilience. Grants of up to $80,000 are available each cycle, with requests up to $10,000 considered. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations in good standing and demonstrate local leadership. The fund prioritizes collaborative projects that enhance community skills and capacities, ensuring equal opportunities for all, while maintaining a commitment to diversity.

The Olive Tree Foundation Grant Program supports Canadian charities by awarding grants that address various community needs. In 2024, funding priorities include anti-racism, Indigenous initiatives, interfaith projects, climate action, and youth services. Eligible applicants must be registered charities or have a registered charity sponsor. Funding amounts vary based on available resources and community impact potential, encouraging innovative solutions to pressing social issues.

The Impact 100 Indian River Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Indian River County by pooling individual donations to award substantial grants of $100,000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare through projects in various focus areas, including arts, education, health, and the environment. Eligible organizations must be recognized as tax-exempt and based in Indian River County, ensuring that funds directly benefit local residents. The grant fosters innovation and collaboration among nonprofits to achieve impactful community results.

The NYSCA Support for Artists Grant offers vital funding to artists in New York State, promoting the development of new work across various artistic disciplines. This grant is designed to enhance diverse artistic voices, encourage significant growth in individual artists, and strengthen collaborations with sponsoring organizations. Prequalification is mandatory for nonprofit applicants, ensuring a streamlined process for those seeking to elevate their creative endeavors. Artists are invited to apply through sponsoring organizations to receive support for their innovative projects.

The Five Wings Arts Council offers Small Grants for Community Arts Projects to support local artists and organizations in Cass, Crow Wing, Todd, Morrison, and Wadena counties. Grants up to $1000 are available for first-time arts producers or presenters. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, fostering community engagement through enriching arts and cultural activities. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, public schools, and governmental units. It aims to promote artistic expression and community involvement throughout the region.

The Institutional Challenge Grant aims to foster collaborative research by requiring institutions to adapt their policies and enhance capacities for meaningful partnerships. It encourages applications from diverse leadership teams in youth-serving areas, focusing on addressing inequalities in youth outcomes. The grant outlines four key goals: strengthening partnerships, pursuing a joint research agenda, facilitating institutional change, and enhancing collaborative capacities for producing actionable research evidence.

The Social Justice Fund offers General Support Grants to enhance the capacity of organizations focused on advocacy, mobilization, and healing within underserved communities in Pittsburgh. These grants provide essential operating support, fostering long-term planning and development. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or fiscally sponsored collectives that benefit Allegheny County residents and address social justice issues. Preference is given to projects led by impacted communities, emphasizing equitable representation and addressing historical injustices.

The Arkansas Audubon Society Trust Grants support conservation, research, and education projects focused on Arkansas bird species and their habitats. Established in 1972, the trust offers grants ranging from $100 to $1200, prioritizing projects within the state but considering broader initiatives as well. Eligible applicants include individuals, students, educators, and nonprofits. Proposals are accepted biannually, with meetings held to discuss funding decisions, fostering a community dedicated to avian conservation.

The Learning Innovation: ITN 2026-01 Innovation Fund, offered by The Children's Trust, provides up to $1,000,000 to support innovative projects that address community needs in Miami-Dade County. Eligible applicants include governmental, for-profit, and non-profit organizations. Projects should enhance conditions for families and children, or improve service coordination. Individual awards are capped at $100,000, ensuring a broad impact across diverse initiatives.

The Stringfellow Health Fund Grant provides essential healthcare funding to 501(c)(3) public charities in nine Alabama counties. Focus areas include addressing preventable health issues, advocacy, and serving individuals with chronic conditions. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a minimum one-year operating history and adhere to specific strategic planning requirements. Grants aim to enhance community health and well-being, fostering a healthier future for residents in the designated service area.