Best Grants for Capital Funding in Pennsylvania

No one sees the world like we do. At Eden Hall Foundation, we view our work through a woman’s lens to improve the quality of life for all people across our region. This perspective is unique. And it’s always served us—and Southwestern Pennsylvania—well.

The Focus of Our Work  

Improve the quality of life for women, the disadvantaged, and all those who live in southwestern Pennsylvania

• Advance and disseminate useful knowledge
• Improve health and wellness
• Enhance civic and community resources and amenities\
• Increase access to the arts for all.

Eden Hall Foundation entertains grant proposals for:

• Innovative or evidence-based programming
• Capital Projects
• Capacity Building
• Technical Assistance
• Scholarship Funds

The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation promotes human development in West Virginia and Southwestern Pennsylvania by providing strategic charitable resources. The foundation focuses on education and economic development, prioritizing projects that enhance teacher quality, support early childhood education, and foster innovative economic initiatives. By investing in programs that bridge geographical boundaries and encourage collaboration among sectors, the foundation aims to cultivate leadership and sustainable growth in the region.

The Grundy Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Bucks County, particularly in Bristol Borough, focusing on capital projects and specific programmatic support. Established through the will of Joseph R. Grundy, the foundation prioritizes projects that benefit the community and comply with 501(c)(3) regulations. The foundation emphasizes collaboration with other funding sources and seeks innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of the community while avoiding regular contributions for operating costs.

The G. Scott & Bessie K. Guyer Foundation provides grants to charitable organizations and municipal agencies within a 10-mile radius of Shamokin Dam, PA. Funding is geared towards program development, special projects, and capital campaigns, with grants typically ranging from $500 to $3,000. The foundation prioritizes community-driven initiatives and reserves the right to initiate projects of interest. Applications should reflect the potential for community support and volunteerism.

The Henry C. Frick Educational Fund Grant, under the Buhl Foundation, aims to enhance public education in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Established in 1909, it supports grants for K-12 schools, focusing on disadvantaged populations. The fund prioritizes science, arts, and professional development in education, fostering innovation and community engagement. Grants are available for organizations recognized as tax-exempt under 501(c)(3) and are limited to specific counties. The fund does not support building funds, scholarships, or political activities.

The Highmark Foundation provides high-impact grants aimed at enhancing community health in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. It supports evidence-based programs that address critical health issues, including chronic diseases, family health, and access to care. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate sustainable solutions and collaboration with community partners. By funding diverse health-related projects, it aims to improve the well-being of underserved populations, ensuring that vital health interventions reach those in need.

The Historically Disadvantaged Business Assistance Program (HDBA) in Pennsylvania aims to support the growth of small, historically disadvantaged businesses. Managed by the Department of Community and Economic Development, it collaborates with various organizations to provide essential technical assistance and resources. The program includes funding for Business Assistance Service Centers and microgrant initiatives to enhance economic empowerment and increase diverse business participation in government contracts.

The Polk Foundation Grant supports initiatives that enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities in southwestern Pennsylvania. Established by Patricia Hillman Miller, the Foundation prioritizes programs focusing on health, human services, and community inclusion. It seeks to empower people with disabilities through collaborative efforts, innovative technology, and impactful research. While Merakey AVS remains a primary beneficiary, the Foundation welcomes applications from other nonprofits aligned with its mission, ensuring accessibility and support for diverse needs.

The Richard King Mellon Foundation invites innovative proposals that align with their 2021-2030 Strategic Plan, aiming to invest over $1.2 billion to enhance opportunities in southwestern Pennsylvania. Their funding focuses on conservation, economic development, economic mobility, health and well-being, organizational effectiveness, and social-impact investments. The General Application offers flexibility without deadlines, allowing for a variety of support types, including project-specific and general operating funding, aimed at enriching community vitality and environmental stewardship.

The McLean Contributionship Grant, established in 1951, supports charitable projects in the Greater Philadelphia area, focusing on Arts, Education, Environment, and Health. The Trustees prioritize long-term benefits through capital projects rather than ongoing operational expenses. They favor initiatives that enhance community understanding of the environment, promote inclusivity, and improve care for the aging, all while fostering education and cultural developments. The foundation seeks to empower young talent and enhance service delivery in the region.

The Falk Facilities and Technology Improvement Fund, supported by the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania, provides grants for capital improvements to partner agencies already receiving Community Impact grants. Eligible applicants include those in Allegheny, Armstrong, Butler, Fayette, and Westmoreland counties, with funding available for renovations, repairs, vehicle purchases, and technology upgrades. This initiative aims to enhance community services and strengthen local organizations.

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust offers grants aimed at enhancing the lives of animals in the Ohio/Great Lakes region. It prioritizes projects that foster animal adoption, behavior training, and humane education. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and demonstrate a commitment to animal welfare. The Trust seeks innovative, collaborative initiatives that significantly improve the well-being of animals, particularly in underserved communities, ensuring a high quality of life for both individual animals and larger populations.

The Social-Impact Investment Pitch Competition aims to enhance the vitality of Southwestern Pennsylvania, particularly in Pittsburgh, by fostering economic development, wildlife conservation, and community health. The Foundation invites nonprofits, public agencies, and socially-driven for-profit companies to apply for funding to implement innovative ideas that address societal challenges. Applications are open to U.S.-based organizations seeking capital and project support, with a focus on creating lasting positive change in the community.

The George and Margaret Mee Charitable Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Delaware County, NY; Cameron County, PA; and Broome County, NY. It funds educational, community, health, and cultural projects with a minimum award of $1,000. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate sustainability. The foundation does not fund individual awards or religious organizations, and applicants must complete prior grants before submitting new requests.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

 What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.

• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

The Presser Foundation, established in 1939, supports music education and philanthropy through capital support grants ranging from $5,000 to $100,000. Eligible organizations include non-profit, 501(c)(3) music education and performance entities located within a 75-mile radius of Philadelphia. Projects funded may include construction, renovation, or equipment purchases. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that enhance music education while excluding non-music related venues and general operating expenses.

The Walter J. Miller Trust Grant provides financial support to numerous charitable organizations in Pennsylvania. Established to honor the legacy of Mr. Miller and his sisters, the Trust emphasizes funding for education, health services, arts, and social welfare. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) compliant, with a focus on projects that address community needs not met by others. The Trust aims to ensure lasting impact through its generous contributions, fostering community development and support.

The Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program, offered by The Nature Conservancy, provides up to $100,000 for projects that acquire land and easements throughout the Appalachian region. This program emphasizes equitable conservation, aiming to support historically marginalized communities and enhance access to nature while addressing climate change impacts. Projects must demonstrate community engagement and align with the program's goals to protect vital habitats and foster resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

The Verna O. Canova Foundation, established in 2013, supports health, education, human services, and community projects primarily in the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. The foundation awards grants annually for capital projects and operational expenses, evaluating based on merit and need. Applicants must submit their forms by the end of February to qualify for consideration in that year, with decisions communicated by June. Recipients must adhere to specific conditions regarding fund usage and reporting.

The Secular Distribution Grant supports charitable activities aimed at enhancing community well-being, particularly within 100 miles of Coatesville, PA. Focused on health and human services, the grant encourages projects that address community needs, foster self-reliance, and promote civic engagement. With a commitment to philanthropic impact, funding is reserved for organizations demonstrating 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and a proven need, while maintaining strict eligibility criteria to ensure effective resource allocation.

The Scherman Foundation's Environmental & Climate Justice Program focuses on empowering Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities through grassroots organizing to address climate change and promote racial justice. With a regional emphasis on New York City and State, the program funds multi-issue, community-based organizations that advocate for equitable climate solutions. This initiative aims to dismantle systemic inequalities and foster a Just Transition towards sustainable, democratically controlled systems, ensuring that frontline communities lead the way in climate transformation.

The Gladys Brooks Foundation supports innovative projects in libraries, education, hospitals, and clinics. Grants focus on resource endowments, capital construction, and equipment aimed at improving public access to information and educational resources. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located in specific states and demonstrate that projects will be funded primarily by the grant. Applications for direct salary support or research projects are not accepted.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Pennsylvania provide essential funding and technical assistance to small rural businesses with fewer than 50 employees and under $1 million in revenue. The grants prioritize smaller requests and support various projects aimed at enhancing local economies. Eligible uses include training, land acquisition, pollution control, and community development initiatives. Funded by USDA: Rural Development, these grants aim to stimulate growth and sustainability in rural areas.

The Fairs Capital Improvement Grant Program in Pennsylvania offers grants up to $25,000 for certified agricultural fairs to improve their fairgrounds. Projects must include a dollar-for-dollar cash match from the fair, ensuring that funds are used for permanent improvements such as construction, renovation, and utility upgrades. This program aims to enhance the facilities that support the agricultural community, promoting sustainability and improving visitor experiences at fairs.

The PA Fair Fund offers Capital Improvement Matching Grants to support agricultural fairs and youth organizations in Pennsylvania. These grants, established under the Agricultural Fair Act of 1986, assist in funding new construction and maintenance of physical structures on fairgrounds. Eligible projects include building construction, utility improvements, and infrastructure enhancements. A 50% cash match is required, and in-kind contributions are not accepted. This funding aims to enhance the facilities and overall experience at agricultural fairs across the state.

The Cultural and Historical Support Grant Program, managed by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, provides operational funding to support Pennsylvania museums and county historical societies. Grants range from $2,500 to $65,000, aimed at enhancing the museum community and allowing institutions to address their unique operational needs. Eligible applicants must have a substantial operating budget and professional staff. This funding promotes accessibility and the preservation of Pennsylvania's rich cultural heritage.

The PA Agriculture and Youth Program Grant offers funding to youth-centered organizations and projects that promote agricultural, leadership, and vocational skills. With a total of $500,000 available, grants can be direct, non-matching up to $7,500, or matching grants up to $25,000 for capital projects. Eligible applicants include agriculture and youth organizations focused on education, safety training, and community development.