Best Community Development Grants in Rhode Island

Rhode Island 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving local residents with community-focused programs can seek funding for basic needs, community development, education, health, arts and culture, and civic affairs projects. Focused on strengthening economic independence, Amica Companies Foundation invites community-based organizations to apply for program support that helps individuals, families, and communities become more resilient.

501(c)(3) nonprofits working on basic needs, income creation, stable housing, or community empowerment in Rhode Island can apply for Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s Stable Housing and Empowering Communities grants. Funding supports economic mobility and community development for vulnerable populations in eligible local markets, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods.

Nonprofit and community organizations in Rhode Island can receive approximately US $2,500 to support basic needs, food insecurity, education, and community programs. Rockland Trust Charitable Foundation provides Community Donations on a rolling basis for local initiatives such as food pantries, rental or utility assistance, PTOs, youth clubs, and similar community development efforts.

Registered 501(c)(3) community development corporations in Rhode Island seeking to participate in the CITC program can apply for Eastern Bank Foundation’s CITC Grants, with awards up to US $15,000. With a mission to invest in local communities, the foundation supports organizations that are registered and have received an allocation for CITC credits.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations focused on community health and development in Rhode Island can access funding through CVS Health Foundation, with awards of US $50,000 in general operating support. Funding prioritizes efforts that expand access to health care and address social drivers of health such as food security and stable housing.

Rhode Island 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving low- and moderate-income communities through community development, workforce development, financial empowerment, or basic needs programs can access funding through Webster Bank. Eligible organizations must operate within Webster’s footprint, have at least two years of successful programming, and focus on racial equity and economic inclusion in underserved areas.

Rhode Island community development and community services organizations that were previously contacted by a state agency about Designated Grants can access funding administered through the state budget. Rhode Island Office of Accounts and Control oversees standardized payment policies and procedures, and agencies invite selected nonprofits to submit applications for these itemized budget appropriations each fiscal year.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Rhode Island working on community development, education, arts and culture, or civic initiatives can seek basic support funding to enhance local quality of life. Peckham Family Foundation prioritizes programs that strengthen communities and reflect its charitable values across New York and New England, including Rhode Island organizations serving underserved populations.

Textron Charitable Trust provides Rhode Island community development and revitalization nonprofits, 501(c)(3) charities, and K-12 schools with funding for workforce development, education, arts and culture, and health and human services where Textron operates. Organizations focused on affordable housing, economic development, shelters, food pantries, and youth enrichment programs may be especially well positioned to apply.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

Delaney Family Foundation 

The Delaney Family Foundation is a private family foundation focused on making grants to support Wildlife and Land Conservation, Education, Healthcare and Community Betterment.

The Delaney Family Foundation was established in 2013. We make both program and operating grants and do not have geographical restrictions.  

Grant Information

Grants are awarded annually. The following criteria will be used in confirming that grant requests match the goals of The Delaney Family Foundation.

• Clarity of Purpose – the request should be clearly defined with a specific description of how goals/tasks will be achieved and how funds will be spent.
• Potential for Success – the organization must demonstrate that they have funding sources, manpower, and community support as well as the time to achieve their goals. Projects must be realistic.
• Leadership – stability in the organization is a requirement, as well as a well-deserved reputation for results.
• Site Visits – While not always possible, site visits by board members prior to gifting, during gifting or following may be considered.

 We may consider multi-year grants.

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

Fellowship for Equitable Development

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition matches top-level graduate degree students with premiere community development organizations.

NCRC is looking for fellowship projects that move the needle on housing, small business development, and workforce development. Projects may directly result in community outcomes in these focus areas, or involve work with community members to create plans or project pipelines that will solve local issues in these areas.

The NCRC Fellowship cultivates the next generation of community development leaders and empowers them to tackle the issues of tomorrow. The community development sector will face significant challenges in the coming decades from climate change, widening wealth gaps, food insecurities, extreme housing shortages and other needs. These challenges will disproportionately impact low-wealth communities and communities of color. Therefore, it is NCRC’s intention and pledge to uphold the values of community empowerment in the fellowship program.

Interested students and host organizations must apply for this fellowship opportunity.

Program Benefits for Student Fellows Include:

• High-quality training and support from regional leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• A $20,000 stipend for the eight-month, part-time (20-hours per week) fellowship
• The opportunity to meet with leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• Academic credit, in accordance with the policies of the Fellows’ respective universities
• Complimentary admission to the NCRC annual Just Economy Conference

Program Benefits for Host Organizations Include:

• Fresh, innovative talent to help advance organizational mission
• The opportunity to help shape the next generation of community development leaders
• Participation in a fellowship program at little to no cost

The Process

1. NCRC Members Apply; 2. NCRC Selects Member Projects; 3. Students Apply To Selected Projects; 4. Top Student Candidates Interviewed; 5. NCRC & Member Select Student Fellow; 6. NCRC Onboards Member & Student 7. Fellowship Commences

Student Fellow Applications

Fellow applications will open for eligible students once host projects have been reviewed and finalists selected. Students will apply to be considered for a specific host project. Top student candidates will be interviewed by NCRC as well as the host organization.

Fellow Requirements

• Must provide documentation confirming active enrollment (i.e. Letter of Enrollment from Registrar or transcript)
• Must commit to fellowship for full Period of September 14, 2026-May 14, 2027 academic school year
• Must commit to a 20 hour/week fellowship
• Must commit to a schedule with at least one day per week in-office of host organization

Alliance for Social Trust: Trust in Practice Awards

Trust is the foundation of vibrant, resilient communities and healthy civic life. Across the country, local and national organizations are demonstrating the profound ways trust shapes our collective well-being—strengthening relationships between neighbors, cultivating confidence in institutions, and enabling people to work together to solve shared challenges. These efforts are often rooted in the knowledge and leadership of those closest to the work. 

The Trust in Practice Awards support non-profit organizations that are collaborating on new initiatives to build trust across local or virtual communities. Grantees will be part of a national network dedicated to fostering trust through the Alliance for Social Trust’s programs and storytelling platforms. Award recipients will also participate in the annual Trust in Practice Summit to celebrate the work of trust builders.

The Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grants for Fiscal Year 2025 support revitalization efforts in severely distressed public housing and surrounding neighborhoods. This program encourages collaboration among local governments, housing agencies, and community partners to create comprehensive plans aimed at improving housing quality, promoting upward mobility for residents, and attracting long-term investment for neighborhood development. Successful applicants will implement their Transformation Plans, which were developed through prior Planning Grants to enhance the quality of life for residents.

The Ochylski Family Foundation supports registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations through grants aimed at enhancing their operational capacity. With an application deadline of October 1, organizations must submit a detailed request outlining their initiatives. The foundation's mission aligns with its commitment to foster community development and nonprofit effectiveness in Iowa, ensuring that resources are allocated to impactful projects that serve the public good.

The Thriving Community Impact Fund offers grants up to $2,499 to support local programs that enhance community health and well-being. This initiative by Gundersen Health emphasizes collaboration, focusing on areas such as physical and mental health, poverty alleviation, and neighborhood improvements. Organizations like non-profits and government agencies can apply for funding during a rolling application period, with decisions made monthly. The fund aims to empower communities and address health inequities through impactful partnerships.

The U.S. Venture/Schmidt Family Foundation supports initiatives that drive self-sufficiency and community enrichment for vulnerable populations. With over $4.31 million awarded last year, the foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate measurable impact and foster stronger communities. Eligible organizations include those designated as public charities by the IRS. The foundation emphasizes collaboration with other funders, avoiding sole financial support to ensure comprehensive community development.

Jewish high school students leading impactful community development or social justice projects can apply for the Peter Chortek Leadership Award, which provides up to US $9,540 in support. Offered by the Jewish Community Foundation of San Diego, this recognition may benefit youth-driven community initiatives similar to those in Rhode Island.

Community development and revitalization nonprofits, especially 501(c)(3) charities, can access funding through Crawford Taylor Foundation for programs in the U.S. that strengthen local communities. Organizations in Rhode Island working on community development, women and children’s services, environmental stewardship, or related efforts may be eligible if they meet IRS Publication 78 verification requirements.

Community and economic development organizations in Rhode Island recovering from 2023–2024 natural disasters can seek funding for disaster readiness, implementation, and large-scale industry transformation projects. The US Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration provides investments up to US $50,000,000 to help regions address severe economic distress and improve long-term community resilience and growth.

Rhode Island 501(c)(3) nonprofits and local government entities can seek funding for community development, food security, agriculture, and education projects or general operations. Greenpoint Foundation supports community development and revitalization in Rhode Island by prioritizing initiatives that enhance quality of life and requiring impact reports to demonstrate outcomes and inform future support.

Rhode Island community development and revitalization nonprofits can access funding through the H Hovnanian Family Foundation for projects in education, public health and emergency response, arts and culture, entrepreneurship, and youth and leadership development. U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations with at least one year of outcomes may be eligible for up to US $10,000, with preference for New Jersey-based work.

501(c)(3) public charities working on community development and revitalization, especially in Utah and Northern California, can seek Strategic Impact Grants to support clear, feasible projects with measurable outcomes. Grants from Bertin Family Foundation also consider international development, education access, humanitarian aid, and Christian initiatives for organizations that align with its values and reporting requirements.

Nonprofit organizations working on community development, financial literacy, housing, or human services in Rhode Island can access funding through St. Marys Bank Charitable Foundation’s 1908 Funds. Grants of US $500 - US $5,000 support one-time or project-based activities that help individuals and families move toward financial independence and economic self-sufficiency.

St. Mary's Bank Charitable Foundation Community Support Grants aim to enhance community welfare by providing financial support to nonprofit organizations. With a commitment to 'people helping people' since 1908, the foundation focuses on areas like youth programming, homelessness, and civic support. In 2023 alone, they donated over $200,000 to 190 organizations, reflecting their dedication to improving lives in New Hampshire. They prioritize funding for nonprofits within their service areas, ensuring impactful contributions to local communities.

Enhearten Micro Grant supports unseen leaders by providing funding for community-driven projects that embody values of humility, integrity, and love. Grants range from $500 to $1,000 and are awarded after a thorough review process. Enhearten aims to empower these leaders, who often lack access to traditional funding sources, by fostering reparative networks that prioritize equality and justice. This initiative seeks to create opportunities for transformative community engagement and support.