Best Community Development Grants in Nevada

The Folklife Community Grant, offered by the Nevada Arts Council, supports small community organizations in presenting folk arts and traditions. Eligible projects include festivals, concerts, and gatherings that engage traditional artists and cultural specialists. The grant aims to strengthen cultural communities in Nevada by fostering artistic expression and collaboration, ensuring that folk arts continue to thrive and contribute to the state's cultural vibrancy and economic vitality.

The Smart & Final Charitable Foundation focuses on enhancing community well-being through strategic donations. Committed to Health & Wellness, Education, Hunger Relief, Team Sports & Youth Development, and Disaster Relief, the foundation supports local non-profits in California, Arizona, and Nevada. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)3 registered and aligned with the foundation's focus areas. While the foundation aims to assist various groups, it has specific exclusions, such as for-profit entities and political activities.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Nevada offers funding to develop vital community facilities in rural areas, benefiting towns with populations under 20,000. Eligible projects include healthcare, public safety, education, and essential services. This program prioritizes lower-income communities, providing up to 75% funding for qualifying projects. Applicants can be public bodies, non-profits, or federally recognized tribes. It's a year-round program, ensuring ongoing support to enhance community infrastructure and services.

The Raiders Foundation Grant aims to uplift the community by supporting military members, veterans, health and wellness initiatives, and youth development. With over $8 million granted since 2018, the Foundation focuses on enhancing social justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) registered nonprofits in Nevada, demonstrate sound leadership, and provide diverse community services. The Foundation prioritizes integrity in program implementation and does not fund schools or football development programs.

The Penn National Gaming Foundation Grants support various community initiatives across North America, emphasizing education, health services, and cultural affairs. Launched post-Hurricane Katrina, the foundation aids local nonprofits, enhancing community development, public safety, and veteran support. The grants cater to organizations that address the needs of children, senior citizens, and disadvantaged populations, ensuring a broad impact in areas where Penn National Gaming operates. This commitment reflects the foundation's dedication to uplifting communities and fostering resilience.

The Resorts World Las Vegas Community Partnership Grant supports local non-profits, emphasizing collaboration and community engagement. Applications for partnerships can be submitted year-round but are reviewed annually from September 1 to October 15. Eligible organizations must provide a valid 501(c)(3) tax-exempt form and tax-ID. While the grant aims to accommodate requests, it cannot guarantee fulfillment due to high demand. This initiative represents Resorts World's commitment to fostering positive community relations and supporting those in need.

The Del E. Webb Foundation Grant offers financial support ranging from $5,000 to $3,000,000 for nonprofit organizations operating in Arizona, California, or Nevada. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance self-sufficiency and have long-term benefits, particularly in child and health initiatives. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities and demonstrate a commitment to community service. The application process involves submitting a Letter of Intent, followed by a formal application if invited.

The AmeriCorps Nevada Operational Grants provide funding for various organizations, including educational institutions and nonprofits, to recruit AmeriCorps members. These members enhance community support by improving educational outcomes, offering job training, and aiding in disaster recovery. Administered by Nevada Volunteers, this initiative has empowered over 1,600 members to create positive change across the state, serving vital roles in education, housing, and community service since 1994.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The LSTA Competitive Grants program aims to enhance library services across the United States by providing funding to state library agencies. This program supports libraries in addressing community needs, improving access to information, and fostering partnerships that enhance education, literacy, and technology. The grants promote sustainable operations and workforce development, ensuring libraries remain vital resources for diverse populations, including underserved communities. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, the program seeks to elevate the role of libraries in society.

The Truckee River Fund Grant, managed by the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada, offers funding to projects enhancing water quality in the Truckee River watershed. With an annual budget of up to $800,000, the fund prioritizes initiatives that tackle aquatic invasive species, improve watershed conditions, and support local stormwater management. Applicants must demonstrate measurable impact and provide a minimum 25% matching contribution. Notably, land acquisition projects are excluded from funding consideration.

The John Ben Snow Memorial Trust Grant supports educational programs and initiatives that assist individuals demonstrating financial need. Founded in 1975, it prioritizes funding for organizations that enhance educational opportunities, arts, culture, and community initiatives, particularly for youth and disadvantaged populations. The Trust encourages proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations, with grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. It also considers limited proposals in disabilities, environmental protection, and historic preservation, focusing on educational impact.

The Impact Las Vegas Grant Program provides substantial funding to nonprofits in Southern Nevada, focusing on initiatives that enhance culture, education, environment, family, and health. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and serve the local community. Grants support projects with clear goals and measurable outcomes, while excluding funding for operational costs, individual grants, or political activities. The program aims to empower local nonprofits to create significant positive change within the community.

The Teichert Foundation Grant supports organizations in California that enhance community welfare through civic improvement, culture, education, and environmental sustainability. Established by Teichert Construction, the foundation aims to foster a healthier, educated, and more equitable society. Eligible applicants include nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status and public agencies in specified counties. The foundation prioritizes projects that address community needs and demonstrate fiscal responsibility, ultimately striving to create lasting impact and better health for all.

The Bessie Minor Swift Foundation Grant supports programs that enhance literacy and educational enrichment in communities served by Swift Communications. Grants are available to nonprofit organizations focused on developing literacy skills, STEM education, and interdisciplinary programs for children and youth. With funding ranging from $500 to $5,000, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that foster active citizenry and provide direct service to underserved populations.

Nevada Division of Child and Family Services

The Nevada Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS), together in genuine partnership with families, communities and other governmental agencies, provides support and services to assist Nevada's children and families in reaching their full human potential. DCFS recognizes that Nevada's families are our future and children, youth and families thrive when they:

• Live in safe, permanent settings
• Experience a sense of sustainable emotional and physical well being
• Receive support to consistently make positive choices for family and the common good

Children’s Justice Act

Opportunity Summary

The Children’s Justice Act (CJA) provides grants to States to improve the investigation, prosecution, and judicial handling of cases of child abuse and neglect, particularly child sexual abuse and exploitation, in a manner that limits additional trauma to the child victim. CJA grantees are responsible for implementing the requirements of the CJA grant program to reform state processes for responding to child abuse and neglect.

Funding Guidelines 

Examples of Types of Activities Supported by CJA Grant Funds Include

• Regional collaborations to enhance capacity and resource sharing;
• Regional and local multidisciplinary trainings;
• Development of resources, tools or technical assistance to address a specific regional or community need that will improve the investigation and/or prosecution of child abuse and neglect cases. 

Please Note:

CJA funds are to be primarily focused on the front-end, intake, assessment, investigative, and prosecutorial phases of child welfare. CJA Funds must not be used for prevention programs or treatment services. Projects selected by the Task Force should be mindful that funds must be spent to support efforts at the intake and investigative phase of child welfare.

The MGM Resorts Foundation Community Grant Fund supports nonprofit agencies providing essential services in areas such as affordable housing, education, and health. Grants are awarded for a one-year period and focus on regions where MGM Resorts employees live and work. Eligible applicants must comply with diversity policies and serve individuals or families. The foundation does not fund governmental agencies or projects exclusively for medical research. This initiative aims to enhance community well-being through targeted support.

The NNLM Region 5 Professional Development Award offers funding for individuals at member institutions to enhance their knowledge and skills in health-related areas. This initiative aims to support meetings, workshops, and training that focus on health literacy, public health, and evidence-based practices. By fostering professional development, the NNLM seeks to improve healthcare services and access to health information across various communities, ultimately contributing to better public health outcomes.

The Smallwood Foundation Grant supports charitable purposes within a hundred-mile radius of Dallas/Fort Worth, Gainesville, and Minden. It focuses on areas such as Arts and Culture, Civic Activities, Community Development, Education, and Human and Social Services. However, individuals are not eligible to submit applications. This grant offers an opportunity for organizations within the specified regions to seek funding for meaningful projects that positively impact their communities.

The Lahontan Community Foundation Fund Grants aim to support non-profit organizations enhancing the Truckee and North Tahoe Region. Founded in 2002, the foundation fosters community engagement through fundraising and grants. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations with at least two years of tax-exempt status that serve the local community in areas such as arts, education, environment, and health. Applications for religious activities or those promoting discrimination will not be considered.

The NV Energy Foundation Grants program, starting in March 2025, invites 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in Nevada to submit an open Letter of Interest (LOI) once annually. This initiative aims to fund impactful community programs, emphasizing environmental conservation, education, and public safety. Successful LOIs will lead to funding decisions in July and December, fostering collaboration and volunteer involvement while promoting community awareness of the Foundation's philanthropic efforts.

The Arts Learning Project Grant, administered by the Nevada Arts Council (NAC), aims to enhance arts education and creativity within Nevada communities. This grant supports diverse arts learning initiatives, including workshops and artist residencies, fostering collaboration among students and practicing artists. By prioritizing funding for innovative educational programming, the grant contributes to the cultural vitality and economic growth of the state, ensuring that arts remain integral to the educational experience and quality of life in Nevada.

About the Department

The Nevada Department of Education (NDE or Department) leads and collaborates with Nevada's 17 school districts and the State Public Charter School Authority to advance educational equity Statewide. With offices in Nevada's capital, Carson City, and Las Vegas, NDE oversees all pre-K-12 education in the State with mission of improving student achievement and educator effectiveness by ensuring opportunities, facilitating learning, and promoting excellence. Under the leadership of the State Board of Education and the Executive Team, NDE impacts the achievement of nearly half a million children and 30,000 educators.

Bullying Prevention Training 

Overview of Bullying Prevention Grant

A learning environment that is safe and respectful is essential for the pupils enrolled in Nevada schools. Nevada Revised Statute (NRS) 388.132 states that any form of bullying and/or cyberbullying and discrimination based on race seriously interferes with educational opportunities. School districts and schools must train staff and students in the prevention of bullying, cyberbullying, or discrimination based on race.

This funding opportunity creates a mechanism for compliance with legislative mandates while supporting school districts and charter schools in the State of Nevada in efforts to meet the unique needs of their school communities. It also acts as an agreement between the local education agency (LEA) and the state education agency (SEA) for creating the conditions necessary to support collaborative and responsive partnership to create bully-free schools for all students and all staff.

Goals and Priorities

This request for funding must be used for one of the following activities:

• The establishment of programs to create a school environment that is free from bullying, cyberbullying and discrimination based on race.
• Providing training on the policies adopted by the district to prevent bullying, cyberbullying, and discrimination based on race.
• The development and implementation of procedures that allow students and staff to discuss bullying, cyberbullying, and discrimination based on race and the policies surrounding bullying, cyberbullying and discrimination based on race. 

The In-N-Out Burger Foundation supports organizations that aid children and youth affected by abuse and neglect, offering grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. Eligible nonprofits must be 501(c)(3) registered, operational for at least two years, and demonstrate a commitment to the foundation's mission. Applications are considered for traditional, capital, and program support, focusing on sustainable solutions and clear objectives. Organizations must operate in areas with In-N-Out Burger locations to qualify.

Enterprise Community Partners

Enterprise Community Partners is a national nonprofit that exists to make a good home possible for the millions of families without one. Home is where life happens, where plans are made, and futures begin. It is the foundation for dignity, health, education, wealth, and community. Yet rents keep going up, paychecks don’t keep pace, and good homes in strong neighborhoods are increasingly out of reach.

The system doesn’t work. It must be changed, and it must be changed by us.

Enterprise has the breadth, scale, and expertise to do it. We support community development organizations on the ground. We aggregate and invest billions to improve housing and strengthen communities across the U.S. We advance housing policy at every level of government. We build and manage communities ourselves. Everything we do is informed by the residents we serve.

Together with our partners, we focus on the greatest need — the massive shortage of affordable rental homes — to achieve three goals:

• Increase the supply of affordable homes
• Advance racial equity after decades of systematic racism in housing
• Support residents and strengthen communities to be resilient to the unpredictable, and make upward mobility possible

Since 1982, we have invested $92.0 billion and created 1.1 million homes across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. We do all this to make home and community places of pride, power, and belonging.

National Housing Innovation Grant Competition

Home is foundational. It’s where we plant roots, raise and care for our families, and build community bonds. Yet in every corner of the country, millions of people of all ages and backgrounds need a home they can afford.

Wells Fargo is meeting this moment with a powerful grant opportunity. Together with Enterprise, Wells Fargo has launched the third iteration of the Housing Affordability Breakthrough Challenge. The 2026 cycle of the housing innovation competition will identify and propel proven, ready-to-scale solutions that transform current practices and increase housing choice and access.

Eligible applicants will compete for five individual grants of $2 million to advance their innovation and drive meaningful, systems-level change in the housing and adjacent industries. Winners will gain access to mentorship and coaching from industry leaders and experts and join a powerful network of Breakthrough Challenge innovators.

Focus Areas

This third cycle of the Housing Affordability Breakthrough Challenge aims to meet the nation’s affordable housing challenges across all types of communities: Native, rural, suburban, tribal, and urban.

Proposals must encompass one or more of three focus areas:

• Design and Construction
• Finance
• Service Delivery and Programs

Applicants will be asked to show how their proof of concept or pilot program has achieved clear outcomes and success, and provide a clear pathway to expanding the innovation’s reach and impact

Round 1: Criteria and Scoring

Your innovation must meet the criteria below to advance to the official scoring stage.

Type of Community

Innovations can serve all types of communities:

• Rural
• Urban
• Suburban
• Tribal

Location

Priority scoring will be given to applications from entities that are based in – or whose innovations are designed for – one or more of these 28 states, plus D.C.:

• Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Washington D.C.

Affordability

Innovations must serve residents at these income levels:

• Rental: 80% AMI or below
• Homeownership: 120% AMI or below
• Workforce housing: 120% AMI or below

The PTCF Community Impact Grant supports nonprofit organizations serving the Lake Tahoe Region. Grants focus on five key areas: well-being, education, arts and culture, environment, and community engagement. Organizations must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) charities or schools, incorporated in California or Nevada, and provide over 50% of their services in the Tahoe Basin. This initiative aims to foster positive community impact through collaboration and innovation.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Nevada aim to foster economic growth and job creation in rural areas by providing financial assistance to eligible entities. The program offers two types of grants: Opportunity grants for community projects and Enterprise grants for small business support. While there is no maximum grant amount, smaller requests are prioritized. The funds can be utilized for various purposes, including training, infrastructure development, and strategic planning, contributing significantly to rural development.