Best Providence Grants for Nonprofits in Rhode Island

Youth-serving organizations and schools in Providence, Rhode Island offering career exploration and work-based learning for teens can apply for the State of Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training’s Real Skills for Youth partnership. Funding supports tech-focused summer camps, entrepreneurship projects, and other programs that build essential skills and expose youth to business, finance, media, and technology careers.

Nonprofits, schools, and youth-serving organizations in Providence, Rhode Island can seek funding to deliver work-based learning, career exploration, and job readiness programming for high school youth. Grants from the State of Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training help organizations provide Real Skills for Youth experiences that build technical, professional, and leadership skills tied to high-demand career pathways.

The Providence Shelter Grant aims to support programs that address educational disparities and mental health issues among children of African descent in Rhode Island. With a focus on healing from pandemic-related trauma, this grant prioritizes organizations led by people of color and those serving urban youth. Funding is directed towards impactful services rather than equipment, emphasizing the need for cultural, educational, and social opportunities for children up to 18 years old.

The Brown Rudnick Community Grants program aims to support front-line educational workers in underserved communities across cities like Boston and New York. With grants up to $2,000, it addresses immediate educational needs that traditional funding overlooks. This initiative encourages collaboration with educators to enhance learning environments and foster positive change, ensuring that impactful projects receive the necessary support to thrive within a year of funding.

Nonprofit youth-serving organizations in Providence, Rhode Island offering workforce preparation, internships, or career/college readiness programs can apply for the State of Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training’s Real Skills for Youth initiative. Funding supports partnerships that deliver high-quality work-based learning, career exploration, and essential skill-building experiences for young people in Providence County and nearby communities.

Nonprofit organizations supporting disadvantaged children and families through youth development, education, health, or social services programs in Providence, Rhode Island may be eligible for funding. Baystate Financial Charitable Foundation provides grants to strengthen family relationships and improve the daily lives of children in need across Providence County and other nearby communities.

Nonprofit youth-serving organizations and school partners in Providence, Rhode Island can access funding for work-based learning, career exploration, and college/career preparation programs through the State of Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training’s Real Skills for Youth initiative. Grants from the department help Providence organizations build healthcare-focused career pathways and essential job skills for local students.

The Governor's Workforce Board

The Governor's Workforce Board (GWB) is the primary policy-making body on workforce development matters for the State of Rhode Island and has statutory responsibility and authority to plan, coordinate, fund, and evaluate education, employment, and training programs that increase the skills of the RI workers and address the workforce needs of RI businesses. The Board is housed at the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training.

Real Skills for Youth

The goal of Real Skills for Youth is to prepare youth for success in college and/or career through meaningful career exposure and exploration of potential career paths and their on-ramps, skill-building with an emphasis on essential and professional skills and supported work-based learning experiences that allow participants to apply learning in a real-world setting. 

Real Skills for Youth programs often provide youth with initial exposure to the world of work, whether through a paid work experience, hands-on exposure to new careers, and practicing essential skills.

In FY26, the GWB allocated $2.8 million to the program to support partnerships consisting of schools, youth-serving organizations, employers, and others to develop and implement high-quality work-based learning and career exploration activities. This program is part of Rhode Island’s larger effort called Prepare RI.

Real Skills for Youth Partners and Programs: Southside Community Land Trust

What To Expect

• Paid Internship: Get real world experience working in the industries farming, agriculture and more.
• Choose Your Placement: You’ll explore a career pathway in the art of Urban Farming
• Skill Building: You’ll get hands-on experience working at urban farms, where you’ll learn practical farming skills and build job skills. You’ll also join interactive sessions on topics like environmental awareness, financial planning, and career readiness.
• Mentorship: Work alongside experienced staff at urban farm sites and learn what a real workday looks like. 

Career Pathways to Choose From

• Urban agriculture 
• Food production and processing  
• Environmental conservation  
• Renewable energy related to agriculture 
• Farm management 

Communities Served: Providence, Pawtucket, Central Falls

The Governor's Workforce Board

The Governor's Workforce Board (GWB) is the primary policy-making body on workforce development matters for the State of Rhode Island and has statutory responsibility and authority to plan, coordinate, fund, and evaluate education, employment, and training programs that increase the skills of the RI workers and address the workforce needs of RI businesses. The Board is housed at the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training.

Real Skills for Youth

The goal of Real Skills for Youth is to prepare youth for success in college and/or career through meaningful career exposure and exploration of potential career paths and their on-ramps, skill-building with an emphasis on essential and professional skills and supported work-based learning experiences that allow participants to apply learning in a real-world setting. 

Real Skills for Youth programs often provide youth with initial exposure to the world of work, whether through a paid work experience, hands-on exposure to new careers, and practicing essential skills.

In FY26, the GWB allocated $2.8 million to the program to support partnerships consisting of schools, youth-serving organizations, employers, and others to develop and implement high-quality work-based learning and career exploration activities. This program is part of Rhode Island’s larger effort called Prepare RI.

Real Skills for Youth Partners and Programs: Tri County Community Action Agency

What To Expect

• Paid Internship: Get help choosing a paid work experience with a real employer
• Choose Your Placement: Explore your skills and interests and then get matched them with a work-based learning site that fits with your goals.
• Skill Building: Work on workplace skills like building a resume, interviewing, learning about managing money and more.
• Mentorship: Work alongside experienced staff and learn what a real workday looks like. 

Career Pathways to Choose From

• Health Care 
• Business & Finance 
• Computer Science 
• Sustainable Energy 
• Education 
• Hospitality

Communities Served: Northern / Providence County and Southern / Washington County

The Governor's Workforce Board

The Governor's Workforce Board (GWB) is the primary policy-making body on workforce development matters for the State of Rhode Island and has statutory responsibility and authority to plan, coordinate, fund, and evaluate education, employment, and training programs that increase the skills of the RI workers and address the workforce needs of RI businesses. The Board is housed at the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training.

Real Skills for Youth

The goal of Real Skills for Youth is to prepare youth for success in college and/or career through meaningful career exposure and exploration of potential career paths and their on-ramps, skill-building with an emphasis on essential and professional skills and supported work-based learning experiences that allow participants to apply learning in a real-world setting. 

Real Skills for Youth programs often provide youth with initial exposure to the world of work, whether through a paid work experience, hands-on exposure to new careers, and practicing essential skills.

In FY26, the GWB allocated $2.8 million to the program to support partnerships consisting of schools, youth-serving organizations, employers, and others to develop and implement high-quality work-based learning and career exploration activities. This program is part of Rhode Island’s larger effort called Prepare RI.

Real Skills for Youth Partners and Programs: Young Voices

What To Expect

• Paid Internship: Youth will work in teams on a hands-on, industry-connected capstone project. Through this experience, they will build real-world skills like problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and basic technical skills that prepare them for college, training programs, and future careers.
• Skill Building: Through hands-on career experiences, students will build important workplace skills such as communication, teamwork, resume and cover letter writing, and professional behavior. This program helps students gain confidence, build strong professional relationships, and develop the skills they need to succeed in the world of work.
• Mentorship: Each career track will have one or two mentors who check in with students at least once a week during scheduled team time to support progress and growth.

Career Pathways to Choose From

• Industrial Engineering
• Banking & Finance
• Biological and Environmental Science
• Pharmacy
• Public Health, and Pre-Engineering

Students enrolled in the Making Money Moves industry track will have the opportunity to earn 0.5 high school credits through the All-Course Network (ACN).

Communities Served: Providence, Pawtucket, Central Falls, Cranston, Warwick

The Governor's Workforce Board

The Governor's Workforce Board (GWB) is the primary policy-making body on workforce development matters for the State of Rhode Island and has statutory responsibility and authority to plan, coordinate, fund, and evaluate education, employment, and training programs that increase the skills of the RI workers and address the workforce needs of RI businesses. The Board is housed at the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training.

Real Skills for Youth

The goal of Real Skills for Youth is to prepare youth for success in college and/or career through meaningful career exposure and exploration of potential career paths and their on-ramps, skill-building with an emphasis on essential and professional skills and supported work-based learning experiences that allow participants to apply learning in a real-world setting. 

Real Skills for Youth programs often provide youth with initial exposure to the world of work, whether through a paid work experience, hands-on exposure to new careers, and practicing essential skills.

In FY26, the GWB allocated $2.8 million to the program to support partnerships consisting of schools, youth-serving organizations, employers, and others to develop and implement high-quality work-based learning and career exploration activities. This program is part of Rhode Island’s larger effort called Prepare RI.

Real Skills for Youth Partners and Programs: Youthbuild Preparatory Academy

What To Expect

• Career Exploration: Youthbuild Prep Academy will host a 60-hour, 10-week after-school program for a cohort of 20 students focused on building career readiness and technical awareness. Complete career assessments, participate in essential skills workshops 
• Skill Building: Youth will team up to complete a hands-on capstone project connected to real careers. Along the way, they’ll practice working together, solving problems, communicating their ideas, and building technical skills they can use after high school.
• Mentorship: Throughout the program, students will get support and guidance from facilitators and industry partners who will help them explore what they’re interested in, learn about real careers, and feel more confident planning their next steps.

Career Pathways to Choose From

• Technology
• Healthcare
• Skilled Trades

Communities Served: Providence

The Governor's Workforce Board

The Governor's Workforce Board (GWB) is the primary policy-making body on workforce development matters for the State of Rhode Island and has statutory responsibility and authority to plan, coordinate, fund, and evaluate education, employment, and training programs that increase the skills of the RI workers and address the workforce needs of RI businesses. The Board is housed at the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training.

Real Skills for Youth

The goal of Real Skills for Youth is to prepare youth for success in college and/or career through meaningful career exposure and exploration of potential career paths and their on-ramps, skill-building with an emphasis on essential and professional skills and supported work-based learning experiences that allow participants to apply learning in a real-world setting. 

Real Skills for Youth programs often provide youth with initial exposure to the world of work, whether through a paid work experience, hands-on exposure to new careers, and practicing essential skills.

In FY26, the GWB allocated $2.8 million to the program to support partnerships consisting of schools, youth-serving organizations, employers, and others to develop and implement high-quality work-based learning and career exploration activities. This program is part of Rhode Island’s larger effort called Prepare RI.

Real Skills for Youth Partners and Programs: YWCA Rhode Island

What To Expect

• Career Exploration: A six-week summer career exploration program Hands-on workshops in carpentry, welding, robotics, and environmental engineering A supportive camp-style experience designed for learning, teamwork, and confidence-building Guidance and support from program staff to ensure a safe and positive experience.

• Skill Building: Learn technical skills through hands-on activities in trades and engineering fields Build essential workplace skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership Participate in enrichment activities focused on preparing for future jobs and careers Gain experience applying skills in real projects and group activities.

• Mentorship: Learn from strong female role models working in skilled trades and technical careers. Youth will receive mentorship from industry professionals through NAWIC (organization of that connects women to construction trades) activities Get support from a dedicated program coordinator and youth counselor. Build confidence through encouragement, coaching, and regular check-ins.

Career Pathways to Choose From

• Carpentry
• Welding
• Robotics
• Environmental Engineering 

Communities Served: Woonsocket

Nonprofit organizations in Providence, Rhode Island working in education, health, Catholic religious initiatives, or culture and the arts can seek program support through the Lynch Foundation. Focused on sustainable social change, the foundation offers a rolling, multi-step application process for not-for-profits in the Greater Boston community, including Providence County.

The Nellie Mae Event Sponsorship Fund supports one-time events that promote education justice and racial equity in New England. Organizations targeting local communities, with annual budgets under $2 million, can apply for funding for events scheduled in 2025 or early 2026. The foundation prioritizes public entities and 501(c)3 educational organizations, ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities for all students. Note that operational costs and online fundraising are not eligible for funding.

The Westinghouse Charitable Giving Program aims to strengthen community ties by providing financial support in key areas such as education focused on STEM, environmental sustainability, and community safety. This program welcomes applications from eligible organizations that meet specific grant criteria, including being tax-exempt and located within 50 miles of a Westinghouse site. The initiative underscores Westinghouse's commitment to advancing education, promoting environmental stewardship, and enhancing community well-being.

Nonprofit organizations providing education, job readiness, or community enrichment programs in Providence, Rhode Island may be eligible for support, with funding currently by invitation only. Nordson Corporation Foundation supports early learning, K–12 education, college and career preparation, arts access, human services, and community-strengthening initiatives in Providence County and other selected communities.

The STEM + Families Science Festival, sponsored by Bayer Fund, is designed for elementary schools, providing $1,500 in funding to 40 selected PTAs. This initiative encourages hands-on STEM experiences for students and their families, fostering engagement and exploration in science. To qualify, PTAs must conduct in-person events within a 55-mile radius of designated regions. This program emphasizes the importance of connecting families through fun and educational STEM activities.

The TD Bank Community Sponsorships Program, supported by the TD Charitable Foundation, provides funding for events and activities that positively impact communities from Maine to Florida. This initiative aims to enhance community awareness and foster partnerships among diverse groups, promoting economic development, cultural enrichment, and social responsibility. Organizations can apply for funding to support community-oriented programs, with applications reviewed quarterly. It's essential to submit applications at least 90 days before the event deadlines.

Junior biomedical science investigators at Massachusetts academic institutions, hospitals, or nonprofit research facilities pursuing high-risk, high-reward pilot projects may be eligible for the Smith Family Foundation Odyssey Award, administered by Health Resources in Action. This program supports innovative biomedical research benefiting low-income communities in Greater Boston and may include work relevant to Providence-area nonprofits. Awards are up to US $400,000.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing jobs or educational links for disadvantaged people in Providence, Rhode Island and nearby counties can apply for this support; funding backs employment and community education connections. With a mission to aid disadvantaged residents, Moses Kimball Fund prioritizes programs serving needy community members across Greater Boston and parts of Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.

The Rhode Island Department of Health is offering a Short-Term Project Funding Opportunity aimed at promoting hypertension management and diabetes prevention in Providence communities. Eligible organizations can apply for up to $4,999 to create culturally relevant outreach events and materials that encourage the use of preventive health services. This initiative emphasizes community engagement, aiming to address social determinants of health through effective messaging and resource navigation, with project activities expected to run from April to August 2025.

The Ramsey McCluskey Family Foundation offers Single-Year Grants to support projects in arts and general education for preschool through high school. With an annual budget of about $300,000, grants can reach up to $10,000. Priority is given to hands-on arts education projects, with 75% of the budget allocated to this area. Organizations must wait one year after receiving three consecutive grants before reapplying. Eligibility is limited to projects within a 50-mile radius of MetroWest Boston.

Early-career biomedical researchers at nonprofit academic, medical, or research institutions in Massachusetts, Brown University, or Yale University can receive up to US $400,000 for three-year basic or translational projects. Grants from Health Resources in Action support newly independent faculty in fields such as biomedical imaging, informatics, engineering, chemistry, and physics, including those serving Providence, Rhode Island institutions.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations running health, education, or poverty-alleviation programs in Providence, Rhode Island can apply for program-specific operating support. Grants from Rotary Charities Foundation help Providence nonprofits that are located in or primarily serve city residents advance Rotary’s goals of health, education, and alleviating poverty through targeted program grants awarded each spring.

The Interlace Grant Fund offers Emergency Grants to visual artists in the Providence area facing urgent needs like eviction or healthcare costs. Applications are accepted monthly, with awards between $50 and $500, totaling $1250 each month. Artists can apply repeatedly until they reach a maximum of $500. The grants are unrestricted and do not require reporting, ensuring support is provided without barriers. Recipients will remain anonymous to protect their privacy.

The Interlace Grant Fund offers Project Grants between $5,000 and $6,000 to support Providence-area artists in creating and presenting new work. This initiative particularly values innovative visual art that enhances public engagement and understanding. The grants aim to spotlight underrepresented artistic endeavors and foster community connections through collaborative projects. Eligible applicants must be practicing visual artists living within a 10-mile radius of Providence, Rhode Island, and meet specific criteria, ensuring meaningful contributions to the local art scene.