Best Queens County Grants for Nonprofits in New York

The Thriving Communities Grants support arts and culture projects that promote diversity, enhance public engagement, and foster historic preservation in New York City. Targeting underrepresented artists and smaller-budget organizations, these grants aim to build capacity and improve access to arts education. Eligible projects include collaborations that integrate arts into public schools and initiatives that strengthen advocacy for the arts. The program prioritizes funding for projects in non-Manhattan areas and communities of color.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and public entities offering environmental education in Queens County, New York can seek US $20,000 - US $100,000 to develop Hudson River Estuary-focused facilities, programs, curricula, and youth research experiences. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Hudson River Estuary Program supports projects within the estuary watershed that expand access to river education, especially for underrepresented communities.

Individual emerging artists and unincorporated artist collectives creating new, never-before-presented work in Queens County, New York can receive US $3,000 in project-based support for public arts events. New York Foundation for the Arts funds exhibitions, performances, festivals, screenings, readings, workshops, and related expenses that offer accessible cultural experiences for Queens community members.

Queens County, New York small-budget 501(c)(3) nonprofits and unincorporated artist collectives can receive US $2,500 - US $5,000 for community arts projects with a public component. With a mission to support arts and culture, New York Foundation for the Arts funds exhibitions, performances, festivals, workshops, and other accessible cultural events serving Queens residents, including in-person or virtual programming.

Chamber Music America’s Artistic Projects grant supports small ensembles and presenters in New York City with budgets under $250,000. Funding ranges from $7,500 to $20,000, covering 100% of eligible expenses for projects like commissions, performances, recordings, and residencies. Each project must engage the community and enhance access to chamber music between January 1 and December 31, 2025. This initiative promotes appreciation and respect for chamber music across diverse audiences.

The Ponce De Leon Foundation Grant supports community projects aiming to address economic and social challenges in core areas such as affordable housing, healthcare, and education. Established by Ponce Bank, a certified Minority Depository Institution, the Foundation prioritizes proposals from registered non-profit organizations to enhance local development and assist underserved communities in New York City. This initiative reflects a commitment to equitable access to resources and services for individuals and groups in need.

The Healthy Lives Grant Program by The New York Community Trust aims to enhance health services for older adults and individuals with disabilities in New York City. It focuses on creating an equitable healthcare system by supporting projects that improve access to care, reduce health disparities, and empower individuals through skill development. The program prioritizes innovative solutions that foster independence and community engagement, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive comprehensive support tailored to their needs.

The Keith Haring Foundation offers grants primarily to support non-profit organizations that provide educational opportunities for underprivileged youth and those affected by HIV/AIDS. Established by the artist Keith Haring in 1989, the foundation focuses on initiatives that foster self-sufficiency among vulnerable populations in New York City and the Southeastern US. It invites applications from organizations dedicated to promoting Haring's legacy through arts and culture, ensuring impactful, evidence-based programming.

The Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation Grants focus on HIV/AIDS research funding, supporting scientific studies aimed at treatment and cure, as well as HIV prevention and care programs. Established by Robert Mapplethorpe, the foundation prioritizes proposals from U.S. organizations, especially those in the New York area, that lack support from larger funding sources. The foundation seeks to protect Mapplethorpe's legacy while advancing critical research in the HIV/AIDS field.

The Communities of Color Nonprofit Stabilization Fund Grant aims to enhance the capacity of community-based organizations led by people of color in New York City. Established with $2.5 million from the City Council, this fund supports organizations to address critical needs through various capacity-building projects. Eligible organizations can apply for funding ranging from $35,000 to $45,000 based on their budget size, with a focus on sustainable development and community engagement.

About Us

Mission

A pioneering advocate for cultural equity, the Bronx Council on the Arts (BCA) nurtures the development of a diverse array of artists and arts organizations and builds strong cultural connections in and beyond The Bronx.

We seek to strengthen the cultural ecosystem of The Bronx by nurturing its artists and arts organizations, and by serving the field at large and the public through programs that build connections, provide resources, and advocate for equitable practices.

Bronx Dance Fund

Supported by the Mertz Gilmore Foundation

The Bronx Dance Fund seeks to nurture the development of artists and organizations that comprise the field of dance in the Bronx. To achieve this goal, the Bronx Dance Fund will support individual Bronx-based dancers, choreographers, and dance organizations with grants of up to $8,000 for general operating or project-based support, including capacity building, training, professional development, and/or production. The Bronx Dance Fund will prioritize talented early career dance artists, and BIPOC led organizations.

The startup funding for this grant has been made possible through the support of the Mertz Gilmore Foundation.

The Bronx Cultural Visions Fund Grant supports the live performing arts in the Bronx by funding new project development for individual artists, collectives, and nonprofit organizations in theater, music, and dance. Grants of up to $20,000 are available for project realization, with an emphasis on emerging and mid-career artists. The program requires participation in cohort meetings and aims to foster long-term relationships within the borough's artistic community.

The PositiveNRG Grant Program, led by NRG Energy, focuses on investing in communities through choice and education, community engagement, resilience, sustainability, and well-being. The program is open to non-profit organizations and governmental entities that can demonstrate a meaningful impact. Preference is given to initiatives that foster community involvement and inclusiveness. However, sponsorships for religious or political activities are generally not supported. This program aims to empower communities through innovative energy solutions.

The William Talbott Hillman Foundation Grant supports innovative arts programming in Pittsburgh and NYC, focusing on young people and BIPOC communities. With a year-round application process, the Foundation prioritizes photography as a fine arts medium and civic engagement initiatives aimed at preventing gun violence. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt to apply. The Foundation also emphasizes safety nets for artists and art education in under-resourced communities.

The Lilah Hilliard Fisher Foundation Grant offers year-round funding for initiatives focused on regenerative agriculture and nutrition education, particularly in New York City and Litchfield County, Connecticut. Emphasizing support for human trafficking survivors, youth development, and social justice, the Foundation seeks projects that align with these priorities. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities, with some multi-year grants available. Notably, proposals outside the specified areas are by invitation only.

Queens County community service nonprofits can receive free public service announcement distribution across F.Y. Eye’s NYC PSA Network, helping promote essential resources and programs to local residents. Focused on amplifying mission-driven messages for underserved New Yorkers, this in-kind media opportunity supports organizations ready to provide high-quality PSA artwork for digital screens and LinkNYC kiosks.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on supporting organizations that empower communities through basic needs, income creation, and stable housing. By investing in health and job opportunities, they aim to enhance economic mobility for low- and moderate-income families. Their partnerships target vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable access to resources that foster community vitality and resilience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of stable housing as a foundation for personal and communal growth.

The Wolf Kahn Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on visual arts, enhancing education and artist careers through exhibitions and residencies. Grants range from $5,000 to $15,000, prioritizing projects that promote social justice and environmental awareness. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located in specific regions, while school-based programs and certain other entities are excluded. This initiative honors Wolf Kahn's legacy by fostering artistic collaboration and public engagement.

The Tiger Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations in New York City, focusing on Education, Family Support, and Youth Workforce Justice. With no deadlines for Letters of Inquiry, the foundation seeks organizations with measurable outcomes, skilled leadership, and community engagement. Their Seed and Expansion Fund supports innovative early-stage organizations aiming to address unmet needs, ensuring effective services are accessible to low-income families and individuals across the city.

The Valentine Perry Snyder Fund Grant supports organizations in New York City focused on youth, human services, job training, and public affairs. Established in 1942, it honors the legacy of Mrs. Sheba Torbert Snyder and her husband. Eligible organizations must be public charities with annual budgets under $1 million and have a minimum of three years between grant applications. The fund provides general operating and capacity-building support, excluding grants for individuals or research.

The Lily Auchincloss Foundation, established in 1997, aims to enhance the quality of life in New York City through grants focused on human services, arts, and environmental initiatives. The foundation supports small to mid-sized organizations across the five boroughs, providing both general operating and program-specific funding. Its Human Services cycle prioritizes organizations dedicated to social change and education, ensuring a positive impact on all residents' lives.

International Paper Grants focus on community engagement, emphasizing education, hunger relief, health & wellness, and disaster relief. They support nonprofit organizations that demonstrate good financial standing and effective management. Eligible organizations must operate in areas where International Paper has facilities. The foundation prioritizes local needs, particularly critical and environmental issues, while encouraging employee involvement. Ineligible entities include private foundations and those without a local presence. Applications are accepted through mid-September in the U.S. and Canada.

501(c)(3) nonprofits and fiscally sponsored projects in Queens County, New York can apply for van Ameringen Foundation grants, awarding US $25,000 - US $250,000 for mental health services and advocacy. Funding supports direct services, early intervention, training, media, and policy advocacy benefiting people and communities with limited financial means or opportunities.

The New York Foundation Core Grants support community organizing, grassroots advocacy, and movement-building efforts in New York City. Grants of $47,500 per year are available for up to three years for established groups and five years for emerging ones. In addition to funding, grantees gain access to capacity-building resources, including legal services, workshops, and small responsive grants. The foundation prioritizes organizations led by marginalized communities and those addressing systemic injustices.

The Carolyn Bishop Thornhill Scholarship, managed by the Beckley Area Foundation, supports students pursuing higher education, particularly those attending Queens College and from West Virginia. This scholarship aims to foster student success by providing financial assistance to eligible applicants, ensuring that local students can achieve their educational aspirations. With a commitment to enriching lives in Southern West Virginia, the Foundation's goal is to inspire generous charitable giving and strengthen the community.

The Conscious Kids Grant, established by Marlee-Jo Jacobson, aims to support at-risk children and families in underserved communities. With an average grant size of $10,000 to $20,000, the foundation prioritizes educational support and life enhancement services. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and serve specific counties in New York and New Jersey. The grant focuses on assisting homeless youth, children in foster care, and those with disabilities, fostering community engagement and empowerment.

The PLTW Launch program, supported by Burns and McDonnell, aims to enhance student engagement in STEM education within eligible communities. This initiative will provide grants to schools that implement at least one PLTW Launch module in the 2025-2026 academic year, followed by another module in subsequent years. The program is designed to empower students with hands-on learning experiences that connect real-world challenges to essential skills, fostering a stronger future in STEM fields.