Best Grants for Capital Funding in Rhode Island

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with innovative human services or social problem–solving programs, including those in Rhode Island, can seek support for new or evolving initiatives. Grants from Creag Foundation help organizations that are developing creative approaches to issues in areas such as health, community development, literacy, and public safety; funding is by invitation, following a letter of inquiry.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

Nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations using technology for crisis response, education access, or economic empowerment in Rhode Island can access funding through Cisco Systems Foundation’s Global Impact Cash Grants, with awards up to US $100,000. Eligible programs must primarily serve economically underserved communities and focus on innovative, early-stage solutions rather than ongoing operations or events.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Rhode Island 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking support for community development, basic needs, workforce education, arts, environment, or inclusion initiatives can apply for sponsorship funding. Bank of America Charitable Foundation provides regional U.S. sponsorships that may help strengthen local economic, social, and cultural life, including projects that contribute to healthier, more vibrant communities.

Rhode Island nonprofits seeking capital support for facilities, equipment, or program infrastructure in education, social services, or public health may be eligible for this opportunity. Focused on community well-being, Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation invites organizations, especially within its marketing area, to request more than US $10,000 for impactful, long-term projects.

Nonprofits, tribes, and higher education institutions supporting rural microenterprises in Rhode Island can access loans and grants for revolving loan funds, training, and technical assistance. The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers up to US $500,000 for microloan programs that finance working capital, equipment, debt refinancing, and real estate improvements in eligible rural areas.

Washington Trust Charitable Foundation provides Rhode Island 501(c)(3) organizations with capital and program funding for facilities, campaigns, and specific projects. Nonprofits focused on affordable housing, economic development, youth and family services, health and human services, arts and culture, education, or conservation may be eligible, including those seeking multi-year capital support.

Rhode Island tax-exempt organizations operating accredited camps can seek capital funding to provide financial assistance for children who could not otherwise afford summer camp. With a mission to strengthen capital projects, The Champlin Foundation provides Rhode Island youth and summer program nonprofits with campership support, considering mission alignment, equity and inclusion, organizational capacity, and project feasibility.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

Educational 501(c)(3) organizations, municipalities, Tribal and religious entities in Rhode Island focused on college readiness, access, and completion can apply for Lloyd G. Balfour Foundation support. Funding can include small program-related capital expenses within broader operating or program requests that help underserved and under-represented students succeed in 2- and 4-year postsecondary programs.

Nonprofit food banks, food hubs, and other food distribution organizations in Rhode Island can apply for Farm Credit East’s Food Access Infrastructure Initiative, offering up to US $50,000 for capital projects. Funding supports infrastructure that improves food access, such as storage expansion, produce handling, logistics, and distribution capacity within the Northeast service area.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

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.

Rhode Island-based nonprofit organizations planning capital projects such as equipment purchases, construction, renovations, or real estate acquisition can seek highly limited challenge grants that leverage matching donations. With a mission to strengthen community infrastructure, The Champlin Foundation provides support across arts, education, healthcare, social services, youth programs, libraries, conservation, historic preservation, and animal welfare.

Rhode Island nonprofit organizations seeking capital funding for facilities, construction, renovations, real estate, or equipment can access funding through the Champlin Foundation. Grants support 501(c)(3)s with at least three years of activity across areas like arts and culture, education, healthcare, social services, youth services, animal welfare, conservation, libraries, and historic preservation.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

Rhode Island 501(c)(3) nonprofits running programs in education, environment, arts, health, or human services can apply for Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation grants, typically ranging from US $1,000 - US $15,000. Grants from Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation help Kent and Washington County organizations fund specific projects, which may include elements of capital or community development work.

The Hansen Family Foundation Grant seeks to empower organizations that uphold the American values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Focused on diverse causes like children, education, animals, environmental conservation, humanitarian efforts, and arts, the foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that create positive change. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while political campaigns and organizations with high budgets or overheads are ineligible. This grant fosters impactful contributions to society.

Rhode Island 501(c)(3) libraries, educational institutions, hospitals, and clinics seeking capital or endowment support can apply for Gladys Brooks Foundation grants of US $50,000 - US $150,000. Focused on capital funding, the foundation backs buildings, equipment, and resource endowments when outside funding is not available and projects are largely covered by the grant.

Rhode Island animal welfare organizations seeking project, program, or capital support can apply for US $2,500 - US $70,000 to improve humane treatment and care of animals. The Rhode Island Community Foundation funds efforts that impact animal care, shelter, maintenance, and humane education statewide or in individual communities, including capital projects beginning in late September 2025 or later.

Rural public entities and nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island can seek funding to support small rural businesses through technical assistance, training, and capital projects. With a mission to strengthen rural communities, USDA Rural Development provides grants of US $10,000 - US $500,000 for activities like land acquisition, facility construction or renovation, equipment, and community economic development.

Nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island providing basic human needs like food, shelter, and healthcare can seek operating, program, and small program-related capital support from the Grant Sherburne Fund. With a mission to strengthen underserved communities, Uw Urania C Sherburne prioritizes health access, community health education, and broad human services for vulnerable populations.

With a mission to support children’s programs, Billy Andrade Brad Faxon Charities for Children provides Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts 501(c)(3) organizations with funding for direct services to youth 18 and under. Eligible projects include food, playground equipment, computers, art supplies, music lessons, and after-school or similar programs, rather than capital campaigns or facilities build-outs.