Best Renewable Energy Grants in Rhode Island

Rhode Island renewable energy developers and property owners planning solar projects on brownfield sites can access funding through Rhode Island Commerce for solar PV installations. The Renewable Energy Fund supports projects that generate cleaner electricity, promote sustainable energy use, and contribute to green technology job growth across the state.

Focused on environmental conservation, Island Foundation invites Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts 501(c)(3) nonprofits to apply for project or general operating support. Eligible work includes marine and coastal conservation, climate change, renewable energy and regional planning, sustainable agriculture and fisheries, environmental justice, and strengthening local conservation capacity, which may benefit organizations advancing renewable energy initiatives.

Rhode Island climate and clean energy nonprofits can seek support for renewable energy, low-carbon transportation, and climate resilience projects via Barr Foundation. Focused on equitable climate solutions in the Northeast, it prioritizes 501(c)(3) public charities and public schools, especially POC-led, equity-centered organizations and communities most impacted by the fossil fuel economy.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with $100,000+ budgets in Rhode Island communities where RBC Wealth Management operates can seek funding for workforce skills, inclusive prosperity, or environmental sustainability programs. RBC Foundation USA supports job readiness, youth development, financial stability, and community energy-efficiency or decarbonization projects that contribute to a thriving, net-zero future.

The Frankenthaler Climate Initiative's Catalyst Grant supports organizations in the visual arts sector to take quick, impactful actions toward sustainability. Since 2021, the initiative has awarded over $10 million, fostering a shift to carbon-neutral operations. Eligible applicants include nonprofit entities that prioritize visual arts, aiming to reduce environmental impact through clean energy, efficiency improvements, and innovative practices. This grant promotes a greener future while enhancing the importance of arts education and ecological stewardship.

Focused on strengthening STEM doctoral research, this program invites U.S. minority-serving institutions with graduate STEM programs, including those in Rhode Island, to expand research capacity and doctoral student production. The National Science Foundation offers US $100,000 - US $2,000,000 for projects in areas like renewable and sustainable energy, climate change, AI, data science, and related emerging technologies.

Focused on STEM education, Edison International invites high school seniors in Southern California Edison’s service territory to apply for the Edison Scholars Program, awarding US $50,000 for undergraduate study. Students pursuing eligible majors such as engineering, computer science, or natural resources may benefit, including those interested in renewable and sustainable energy fields in Rhode Island and beyond.

Research institutions and partners studying fisheries and offshore wind interactions can seek funding for social, cultural, historical, and economic research in the U.S. Northeast, including Rhode Island. Northeast Sea Grant Consortium supports projects that involve affected fishing communities, build actionable science for managers and developers, and include at least one co-PI from NY, CT, MA, NH, ME, or RI, with awards up to US $400,000.

Graduate-level students and researchers in renewable or sustainable energy and related technologies can receive up to US $40,000 for study between Australia and the U.S. With a mission to support advanced study in security, technology, diplomacy, and climate-focused innovation, American Australian Association provides funding for tuition, travel, living, and research costs that may benefit Rhode Island–based scholars.

Tribal governments and tribal-serving organizations pursuing renewable energy projects can access funding to build solar capacity and workforce development programs, including those serving Rhode Island tribal communities. Grants from GRID Alternatives’ Tribal Solar Accelerator Fund help tribes across the U.S. plan, finance, and implement solar energy projects, education, and training, with awards up to US $100,000.

Graduate students researching drinking water quality, environmental science, or public health can receive US $3,000 to advance projects that deliver actionable solutions for current water industry challenges. Focused on water-related environmental issues, this American Water Works Association scholarship may benefit students in Rhode Island working on sustainable energy and clean water intersections.

Organizations scaling ARPA-E–funded energy inventions in the U.S., including Rhode Island, can seek $5,000,000 - $20,000,000 for applied research and development of transformative technologies. The U.S. Department of Energy supports projects in renewable and sustainable energy, biofuels, energy efficiency, and emerging technologies that originated under prior ARPA-E awards and meet specific patent and reporting requirements.

Tribal governments and Tribal collaboratives seeking to build capacity for offshore wind engagement in the U.S., including Rhode Island, can access phased funding and technical assistance through this DOE prize. Focused on renewable and wind energy, it supports planning, community engagement, workforce training, economic development, and environmental monitoring related to offshore wind projects.

Industrial and energy-technology organizations in Rhode Island developing thermal or electric storage concepts for industrial facilities can access funding through the U.S. Department of Energy. The Industrial Energy Storage Systems Prize offers up to US $700,000 across three phases to design, prototype, and validate cost-effective industrial energy storage solutions that improve efficiency and support renewable integration.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on renewable or sustainable energy and clean drinking water initiatives in Rhode Island can access funding through Park Foundation’s Environment Program. Grants support advocacy, organizing, policy development, corporate responsibility, and investigative reporting focused on decreasing fossil fuel reliance and protecting public water systems, primarily within New York State and nationally.

Registered Canadian or U.S. charities and nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island can apply for BMO Financial Group’s BMO Gives program to support renewable and sustainable energy initiatives, environmental conservation, and related community programs. Funding may also benefit projects that advance financial education, economic mobility, and stronger, more sustainable communities across North America.

Rhode Island renewable and sustainable energy nonprofits, education programs, and community groups can access funding through AES Hawaii Foundation for projects near its renewable energy sites. Eligible initiatives should advance social justice and energy equality, education and workforce development, environmental stewardship, or community health and resilience, and demonstrate measurable, long-term benefits for local or statewide communities.

Rhode Island 501(c)(3) nonprofits pursuing U.S.-based solar education, workforce training, or installations can access funding through All Points North Foundation. Grants of US $60,000 - US $100,000 support renewable and solar energy projects with proven track records, strong leadership, and measurable community, economic, or environmental impact, including work with Tribal and underserved communities.

The Capacity Building Grants for Non-Land-Grant Colleges of Agriculture Program, administered by the USDA's NIFA, aims to enhance the capabilities of eligible institutions in agriculture and related fields. By providing financial support, the program encourages institutions to compete for federal funding, disseminate vital information, and foster community engagement in educational and research initiatives. This initiative is crucial for developing infrastructure, promoting faculty development, and establishing graduate assistantships to address national and regional agricultural priorities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations focused on regenerative farming, climate justice, or sustainable food systems, including renewable and sustainable energy work, can seek general operating support from the Clif Family Foundation. U.S.-focused grassroots groups with strong community ties, including those serving Rhode Island, may receive US $5,000 - US $50,000 for one-year projects.

The Waste Management Charitable Contributions Program supports initiatives that enhance environmental stewardship, sustainability education, and community vitality. With a commitment to civic pride and economic development, the program prioritizes organizations that address local needs and promote sustainable practices. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on public purposes, while ineligible requests include funding for operating costs and individual fundraising events. This initiative fosters a collaborative approach to community betterment.

The Roger Arliner Young (RAY) Fellowship Program, managed by the Environmental Leadership Program, aims to foster conservation and clean energy careers for emerging leaders of color. This two-year paid fellowship provides recent graduates with professional development, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Ideal candidates are those with a passion for social and environmental justice, who identify as part of historically marginalized groups, and are committed to community engagement. The program emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion in the environmental sector.

The Environmental Grantmaking Program at the Educational Foundation of America (EFA) aims to support projects that facilitate a transition to a net-zero electricity system. Focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the program emphasizes initiatives that enhance access to affordable clean energy, accelerate regional transitions, and strengthen financial investment in electric utilities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 public charities, academic institutions, and government entities committed to sustainable energy solutions.

SC Johnson Grants aim to enhance community welfare through charitable contributions, focusing on health, sustainability, and opportunity. Since 1937, the company has committed five percent of its pretax profits to support registered charities and nonprofit organizations, especially in areas where it operates. The grant program prioritizes initiatives addressing healthcare access, environmental conservation, and educational equity, ensuring that efforts align with the values of community service and corporate responsibility.

The Entergy Charitable Foundation Grant focuses on supporting initiatives that foster thriving communities through education, poverty solutions, and environmental programs. The foundation prioritizes funding for 501(c)(3) organizations and similar entities. Key areas include education development, innovative poverty solutions, and environmental restoration efforts, such as coastal wetland preservation. Organizations are encouraged to apply at least three months before funding is needed, ensuring timely support for impactful community projects.

The Roy A. Hunt Foundation's Environment Initiative Grants aim to support projects that enhance ecological health and sustainability. With an annual budget of approximately $3.4 million, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote responsible environmental practices, clean energy, and waste reduction. Grants between $25,000 and $75,000 are available for projects at various levels, focusing on innovative solutions that foster community partnerships and address root causes of environmental challenges.

The Change Happens Foundation Grant focuses on supporting charitable initiatives aligned with environmental science, education, and human services. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the foundation prioritizes funding for organizations holding 501(c)(3) status, while advocating for innovative solutions to pressing global challenges. Grants aim to foster systemic change, empower underrepresented communities, and bridge gaps in access to nutrition and healthcare. The foundation operates nationally and internationally, seeking to create significant impact through strategic investments.