Best Youth Sports Grants in Pennsylvania

Endowment Act - CACs/DVSOs Grant Program

Overview:

Act 1 of 2013, better known as the “Endowment Act,” directs PCCD to distribute $48 million in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) monetary penalties levied on the Pennsylvania State University (PSU) to the victims of child sexual abuse in the Commonwealth.

Act 1 states: “Unless otherwise expressly stated in the agreement, the funds may only be used within the Commonwealth for the benefit of the residents of this Commonwealth and on any of the following:

• Programs or projects preventing child sexual abuse and/or assisting the victims of child sexual abuse.
• Multidisciplinary Investigative Teams established under 23 Pa.C.S. (relating to domestic relations).
• Child Advocacy Centers.
• Victim service organizations that provide services to children subjected to sexual abuse.
• Training of persons who are mandated by law to report child sexual abuse or to treat victims of child sexual abuse.”

The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) is now accepting applications for funding under the Endowment Act, specifically for Categories 3 (Child Advocacy Centers (CACs)) and 4 (Direct Victim Service Organizations that provide services to children subjected to sexual abuse (DVSOs)). 

Funding Availability:

A total of $3,000,000 in state Endowment Act Categories 3 (CACs) & 4 (DVSOs) funds is being announced to support this initiative. PCCD expects to fund 30 grants with budgets not to exceed $100,000 over the 2-year project period.

Applicant agencies may submit only ONE application under this funding announcement. Due to the competitive nature of these funds, PCCD is not able to provide guidance to applicants on which category they should select.

At the direction of the Child Advocacy Center Advisory Committee (CACAC), at least $1.5 million of the funding (50% of the total released) is to be reserved for Category 3 (CACs) applicants. Should the amount requested under Category 3 exceed 50% of the requested funding, then the amount awarded under each category will be dependent on the percentage of the total dollar amount requested under each category. For example, if 60% of the funding is requested under Category 3 (CACs), and 40% of the funding is requested under Category 4 (DVSOs), then $1,800,000 (60% of available funding) would be allocated to support CAC applicants and $1,200,000 (40% of available funding) would be allocated to support DVSO applicants.

PCCD is not liable for costs incurred prior to the official start date of the award. 

The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority Grant Program offers low-interest loans and grants for improvements in drinking water, storm water, and sewage treatment facilities. Eligible entities include municipalities, authorities, and private operators. Total project assistance can reach up to $11 million, or $20 million for multi-municipality projects. Applicants must consult with a PENNVEST Regional Project Specialist prior to submission. This program aims to enhance water management and pollution prevention practices across the state.

The Building Opportunity through Out-of-School Time (BOOST) Grants, provided by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, aim to enhance structured programming opportunities for at-risk school-age youth. These grants support local and statewide projects designed to expand out-of-school time (OST) initiatives, thereby fostering a more supportive environment for youth development and engagement. Through these efforts, the BOOST program seeks to address critical needs in communities and promote positive outcomes for participants.

The Diminished Tree Species Grant Program focuses on restoring native tree species crucial for biodiversity and forest health. By funding scientific research, seed orchard development, and land preservation, the program aims to combat climate change through effective tree restoration projects. The Oak Hill Fund, a private entity, encourages project-specific applications, prioritizing organizations that meet eligibility criteria under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS. This initiative is vital for sustaining healthy ecosystems and mitigating environmental impacts.

The Sewage Facilities Grant Program, established under Act 13 of 2012, utilizes funds from the Marcellus Legacy Fund to support compliance with the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act. This program aims to cover costs associated with the necessary planning work under Act 537, facilitating effective sewage management across the state.

The Foundations in Industry Training (FIT) Grant Program aims to enhance apprenticeship opportunities in Pennsylvania by supporting registered programs. It provides funding for eligible applicants to cover instructional costs that complement on-the-job training. The program allows sponsors to request up to $3,000 per apprentice annually for a maximum of three years, enabling employers to recruit and develop talent effectively. For detailed guidelines, refer to the FAQs provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.

The Tourism Accredited Zoos Program, funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, supports accredited zoos in enhancing their facilities and promoting attendance through marketing initiatives. This funding is pivotal for zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and the Zoological Association of America, ensuring high standards in animal care and conservation practices. By investing in infrastructure and outreach, the program aims to strengthen community engagement and wildlife conservation efforts.

The Watershed Restoration and Protection Grant Program, managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, aims to restore streams affected by nonpoint source pollution. Funded by the Marcellus Legacy Fund established under Act 13 of 2012, the program supports projects that improve watershed protection through Best Management Practices. This initiative is crucial for maintaining healthy water ecosystems and removing impaired waters from the Department of Environmental Protection's list.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Safety First Grant Program aims to enhance community safety across its 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, it supports organizations that provide safety services or promote safe behavior. This program reflects Norfolk Southern's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, empowering employees to engage locally. By investing in safety and workforce development, Norfolk Southern fosters thriving communities, demonstrating its dedication to social responsibility and community well-being.

The UPMC Hand Surgery Fellowship Program offers a comprehensive one-year training experience in hand surgery, combining academic and private practice settings. This ACGME-accredited fellowship allows residents from Plastic Surgery, Orthopaedic Surgery, and General Surgery backgrounds to collaborate and gain diverse clinical experience. Trainees will engage in joint conferences and surgical procedures, progressively increasing their responsibility. By the end of the fellowship, participants will be proficient in microsurgical techniques and upper extremity reconstruction, guided by experienced faculty.

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Accessibility & Engagement

For museums, parks, other public spaces without a specific I/DD focus wanting to make property or equipment improvements and additions to better include visitors with I/DD.

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Educational Spaces

For I/DD serving school programs with a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) attached needing property improvements or equipment/resource purchases to better serve their students with I/DD.

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Program Area Improvements

For I/DD specific 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) looking to add/improve programming potential via equipment and property improvements, updates and additions.

The FCIDD Nonprofit Project Grants are designed to support 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across various states. Grants are awarded for projects that enhance accessibility, provide educational opportunities, and promote community engagement. The foundation encourages collaboration with local Civitan clubs, particularly in October and March funding rounds, while also offering open applications in July. The initiative aims to empower nonprofits to improve the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Thriving Communities Grant Program supports initiatives that promote sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience across a 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, the program aims to foster economic development and ensure equal access to basic necessities. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt nonprofits, government entities, and public schools, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in their community-focused efforts.

The Cycling Activation Mini Grant Program, administered by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, offers funding between $1,000 and $15,000 for projects that enhance cycling opportunities across Pennsylvania. This initiative encourages the development of gravel roads, mountain bike trails, and multi-use pathways, promoting community engagement and environmental sustainability. Eligible applicants include non-profits, municipalities, and educational institutions. A one-to-one match is required, ensuring a collaborative approach to improving cycling infrastructure.

Tut Toth Memorial Scholarship

The Tut Toth Memorial Scholarship Fund is supported by family and friends through an annual memorial baseball tournament. At the time of his death in 2011, Douglas "Tut" Toth was the league's player agent and manger/coach for a softball and baseball team. He was active in many local non-profits and youth sports programs, but was dedicated especially to New Bethlehem Little League. He is still the only person in NBLL to have been on a District Championship team as a player and then as an adult to be the manager of a District Championship team. Tut was instrumental in the beginnings of Little League softball in New Bethlehem and led that team to the first D7 softball win for New Bethlehem. 

Applicant must:

• Be a graduating senior from the Redbank Valley High School or resident of Redbank Valley School District (or successor), or cyber school/home school senior who meets high school or School District requirement.
• Have been a former New Bethlehem Little League (or successor) organization player (includes softball and baseball)
• Enrolled at an accredited post-secondary school, as approved by the Community Foundation Board of Directors

Overview

PennDOT’s Behavioral Traffic Safety Unit offers traffic safety grants to support local communities and organizations working to make Pennsylvania’s roads safer. Eligible applicants include local governments, universities within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, Pennsylvania state related universities, and nonprofit organizations.

These grants are funded through federal programs administered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) under 23 U.S.C. §402 and §405. Funding follows the federal fiscal year, which runs from October 1 through September 30.

Grant opportunities focus on proven, data driven strategies that address the most urgent traffic safety challenges across the Commonwealth. Available funds are allocated using formulas based on crash data to ensure resources are directed where they can make the greatest impact.

The Behavioral Traffic Safety Unit is not permitted to fund equipment only grant requests. All funded projects must include programmatic or behavioral safety components aligned with evidence based countermeasures.

PennDOT Behavioral Highway Safety Grants: Distracted Driving Observational Survey

Informs countermeasure strategies for distracted driving safety by providing statewide data related to cell phone use while driving. Analysis of the collected data will be shared with local and statewide partners to inform existing messaging, programming, and enforcement.

PDA Agricultural Promotion Matching Grant Program

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is offering grants through the Agricultural Product Promotion, Education, and Export Promotion Matching Grant Program for the 2025-2026 grant period. With up to $381,810 in available funding, the program supports nonprofit organizations working on market research, development, and promotion of agricultural products grown, raised, or produced in Pennsylvania.

Program Objectives

Grants provide matching funds (up to 50%) for projects focused on:

• Market Research: Identifying opportunities for Pennsylvania agricultural products.
• Education: Educating producers and consumers about market opportunities.
• Export Promotion: Supporting the development of export markets for local agricultural products.

Grant Requirements

• Minimum Grant Amount: $1,000.
• Funds must be used for specific project expenses, such as market research, trade shows, or consultant fees. However, permanent personnel costs are not eligible.

The Sprague Charitable Contribution Program focuses on giving back to communities through charitable donations. With awards ranging from $250 to $10,000, priority is given to organizations that support children and environmental stewardship, particularly within Sprague's operational areas. The program seeks impactful contributions that can achieve significant results, reflecting Sprague's commitment to social responsibility and community improvement.

The Mid-Atlantic Environmental Justice Fund aims to enhance community-based organizations' capacity for urban forestry through training and support. This initiative focuses on addressing environmental justice issues across the Mid-Atlantic region, promoting health and sustainability through increased tree canopy. By fostering inclusive decision-making, the Fund empowers organizations historically marginalized in securing funding. Projects must align with EPA's disadvantaged community criteria, ensuring equitable access to resources for environmental stewardship.

The Mid-Atlantic Environmental Justice Fund - Track II focuses on enhancing tree canopy to improve public health and environmental resilience in disadvantaged communities. This initiative aims to address air pollution, stormwater management, and ecological challenges through community-driven tree planting and maintenance projects. Supported by the Chesapeake Bay Trust and various local organizations, this program emphasizes participatory decision-making and requires community recommendations for project proposals, fostering local engagement and sustainability.

The KeyBank Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations focused on enhancing communities through education, workforce development, and affordable housing. Founded in 1969, the Foundation prioritizes diversity, financial capability, and sustainability. Their grants aim to empower individuals for success by improving access to resources, fostering economic inclusion, and creating safe environments. By partnering with community organizations, KeyBank Foundation seeks to make a measurable impact and ensure lasting positive change for families and small businesses.

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 Big Ten Academic Alliance Smithsonian Fellowship offers unique research opportunities for graduate students from member universities. Eligible candidates can conduct research at the Smithsonian in diverse fields such as anthropology, ecology, and history of science. The fellowship provides a stipend of $45,000 per year, with additional research allowances, and supports both U.S. and international students. This initiative fosters collaboration among leading academic institutions to advance knowledge and innovation.

The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in Pennsylvania provide essential funding to organizations that support very-low- and low-income families in constructing their own homes in rural areas. These grants enable recipients to offer technical assistance and supervision as families collaborate in building each other’s homes. Eligible applicants include government non-profits, federally-recognized tribes, and private non-profits. Funds are not allowed for hiring construction workers or purchasing materials.

The PA AmeriCorps Grant, administered by PennSERVE, supports local service initiatives in Pennsylvania. This grant seeks to empower individuals and communities to address pressing social issues through service. Focus areas include disaster services, economic opportunity, education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, and support for veterans and military families. By fostering collaboration and innovative solutions, the grant aims to enhance the impact of national service and improve lives across the state.