Best Grants for Churches in Virginia

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

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.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Slemp Foundation Charitable Grants aim to enhance the welfare, education, and health of residents in Lee and Wise Counties, Virginia. Established by Congressman Campbell Bascom Slemp, the foundation supports charitable initiatives, including the preservation of local heritage sites like the Janie Slemp Newman Museum and the Slemp Cemetery. Eligible applicants must hold a 501(c) tax-exempt status and focus on projects that benefit the community.

The Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation focuses on improving the lives of underserved individuals in the DC area through grants in five key areas: Arts and Humanities, Community Services, Education, Environment, and Health & Wellness. The Foundation supports organizations that demonstrate cultural competence and systemic change, aiming for self-sufficiency and holistic well-being for all community members. Grants emphasize access to resources and equitable opportunities to foster meaningful community engagement.

The Philip L. Graham Fund Grant focuses on enhancing the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area through substantial annual grants to 501(c)(3) public charities. It supports diverse initiatives in health, education, arts, and community development, prioritizing innovative, one-time projects. Eligible organizations must serve local residents and align with the Fund's giving priorities. Notably, the Fund awarded $4.1 million in 2017 to 138 organizations, with a strong emphasis on health and education, reflecting its commitment to community enrichment.

ArtsFairfax 

ArtsFairfax is the 501(c)(3) designated as Fairfax County’s local arts agency funded in part by Fairfax County, Virginia Commission for the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as corporations, foundations, and individuals. ArtsFairfax invests in and amplifies the arts for all in Fairfax County.

Project Support Grants

ArtsFairfax Project Support Grants serve arts organizations with funding to support projects that engage Fairfax County residents. Project Support Grants are awarded in four grant subcategories, including Arts in Education, Opportunity, Partnerships, and Arts Access.

Grant Program Objective

The ArtsFairfax Project Support Grant seeks to:

• Provide financial and other means of support to both established and emerging arts organizations.
• Promote opportunities for arts organizations of all disciplines to create, present, and celebrate their artistic endeavors.
• Be a catalyst for increased private sector support for arts organizations through leveraged public funding.
• Encourage wide participation in the arts through diverse cultural programming available to all residents of Fairfax County.
• Support activities that would not normally be part of your organization’s usual activities.

Examples of Eligible Activities

• If your organization provides afterschool arts instruction, then this funding could support the design and implementation of a new class offering that has not been offered before.
• If your organization occasionally hosts a guest artist, then funding could support bringing an artist who might normally be financially out of reach.
• This funding is not intended to support ongoing activities that your organization does on a regular basis as part of your mission.

Grant Subcategories

There are four grant subcategories within the Project Support Grant Program. An organization can submit one grant application in a single subcategory. The four subcategories are: Arts in Education; Opportunity; Partnerships; and Arts Access

Arts Access

Arts Access projects strengthen arts engagement by allocating resources to underserved and economically disadvantaged communities and districts. These projects provide arts programming and reduce the costs of or distance to high-quality arts experiences (theater productions, concerts, presentations, exhibitions, learning, workshops, etc.) in communities where limited arts access has been documented. Arts and cultural organizations located in these communities as well as organizations from throughout Fairfax County and the Cities of Fairfax and Falls Church may apply.

The William H.-John G.-Emma Scott Foundation Grant supports charitable, religious, and educational initiatives primarily in Richmond, Virginia. Established in 1956, it focuses on funding capital projects that alleviate human suffering and improve the lives of families and children. The foundation emphasizes support for Church Schools of the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia and other private educational institutions. Grants are not given to individuals or governmental entities, ensuring assistance reaches those in need.

The Rock Spring Congregational United Church of Christ SAM Grant supports organizations that align with its mission as a Just Peace and Open and Affirming Congregation. Grants, ranging from $500 to $5,000, are available for general operating support or special projects. Eligible organizations are those that meet basic human needs and can engage Rock Spring volunteers, primarily in the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. area, and those in alignment with the values of the United Church of Christ.

The Hughes Memorial Foundation, established by John Edward Hughes, focuses on aiding children and youth in Virginia and North Carolina. Originally created as an orphanage, it now awards grants and scholarships to support projects that benefit children in need. Since 2000, it has distributed over $5.1 million to nonprofit organizations, emphasizing prudent stewardship and a commitment to helping those "most in harm's way". The Foundation also encourages matching funds from organizations to amplify their impact.

The Venable Foundation, a corporate funder, provides grants averaging $10,000 to nonprofits focused on human services, legal support, education, workforce development, youth impact, health, environment, and arts. Funding is targeted at organizations in specific regions, including Washington, DC, Baltimore, New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Miami, and Denver, reinforcing equitable opportunities for economically disadvantaged individuals.

The Dow Promise Grant empowers communities by addressing the unique barriers faced by Black youth and adults in the U.S. This program provides grants up to $10,000 for initiatives that promote social, economic, and environmental advancements. Since its inception in 2000, the Dow Promise Program has been committed to fostering equitable opportunities and positive social change, ultimately contributing to long-term community success and a brighter future for all.

The Baltimore Life Community Grants Program, established by the Baltimore Life Foundation, awards grants of up to $500 to nonprofit organizations in various states, including Maryland and Virginia. This initiative aims to enhance community quality of life through projects that focus on family safety and community enhancement. Eligible applicants must be IRS-certified 501(c)(3) organizations, with priority given to those with volunteer support. This program reflects Baltimore Life's commitment to corporate citizenship and community involvement.

The Business Women's Giving Circle Grant empowers women and girls in Northern Virginia through innovative STEM, Leadership, and Entrepreneurship programs. Since its inception in 2014, it has awarded over $520,000 to enhance educational opportunities for over 3,000 young women. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and educational institutions. The grant supports both new and existing initiatives, promoting impactful experiences that foster confidence and success among participants.

The McLean Community Foundation Grants aim to foster philanthropy in the McLean area by supporting vital projects that benefit local residents. Established in 1978, the foundation provides funding for various initiatives, including community improvements and educational programs. Grants can be used for tangible assets or program expansions, encouraging partnerships with other organizations. The foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate community support and timely fund usage, ensuring a positive impact on the McLean community.

The Community Progress Makers Fund, an initiative by the Citi Foundation, aims to empower local organizations by providing $50 million in unrestricted funding. This program, established in 2015, will support 50 selected community organizations over three years with grants of $1 million each, alongside technical assistance and opportunities for collaboration. The fund prioritizes organizations with strong community ties and a proven impact in areas such as affordable housing, economic development, financial health, and workforce readiness.

The CFNV Community Investment Funds support Northern Virginia's nonprofit sector through grants aimed at critical needs such as child development, education, mental health, and more. Organizations that have received funding since 2016 are eligible to apply, with grants ranging from $15,000 to $30,000 based on budget size. This initiative focuses on organizational strengthening and immediate client needs, ensuring vital services remain accessible during challenging times.

The Community Support Agency Grant Program provides monetary grants to not-for-profit organizations that enhance the quality of life for Newport News residents. These grants aim to fund accessible services, develop new programs, and support capital improvements. Eligible agencies must be 501(c)(3) organizations that offer direct services without duplicating existing programs. The initiative encourages community support and aims to secure alternative funding sources, allowing city funds to be redirected to future programs.

The City of Suffolk's CDBG Program provides annual funding opportunities for non-profit organizations and city boards that serve local residents. Aimed at revitalizing neighborhoods and enhancing economic opportunities, the program prioritizes projects benefiting low- and moderate-income individuals. Eligible applicants must adhere to specific criteria, ensuring that funding supports community-focused initiatives. With a focus on collaboration, the program fosters partnerships to maximize impact and improve community facilities and services.

The City of Suffolk is inviting nonprofit organizations and established boards to apply for funding through the General Fund Local Contributions as part of the FY 2025-2026 budget. Eligible applicants must be charitable institutions providing services to Suffolk citizens and meet specific criteria, ensuring that funding supports community development effectively.

The Loudoun County Human Service Nonprofit Grant supports nonprofits aiming to enhance the community's safety net services. Eligible organizations can apply for funding between $5,001 and $135,000 or opt for mini-grants of $5,000 or less. The grant prioritizes programs that address critical needs in areas such as prevention, crisis intervention, long-term support, and improved service quality. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to positively impact local residents and secure additional funding sources.

The Community and Regional Organizations (CRO) Grant provides essential funding to nonprofit organizations in Portsmouth to enhance community services. Designed for certified 501(c)(3) organizations, the program aims to meet local needs through systematic funding processes. Eligible applicants must demonstrate significant direct services to Portsmouth residents and comply with legal requirements. The CRO Grant strengthens community support by ensuring funds are used effectively and remain within Portsmouth, fostering local development and sustainability.

The Environment Fund, launched in 2018 by The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia, aims to protect and enhance the natural environment of Northern Virginia. It fosters collaboration among nonprofits, businesses, and educational institutions to promote awareness and citizen engagement in environmental protection. In 2025, funding will support nonprofit organizations providing educational programs in conservation, energy efficiency, sustainability, watershed management, and workforce climate initiatives, specifically targeting areas within Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties.

The Ross-Roberts Fund for the Arts, initiated by a legacy gift from Stephen Roberts, aims to enhance arts and culture in Northern Virginia through grants. With a commitment to supporting 501(c)(3) organizations, the fund will distribute up to 12 grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000, fostering artistic growth, community understanding, and the establishment of new arts organizations. This initiative ensures lasting contributions to the region's vibrant cultural landscape.

What is DHR?

The Virginia Department of Historic Resources is the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) in Virginia. As the SHPO, DHR administers a number of federal programs. DHR is also a state agency in the Natural and Historic Resources Secretariat. DHR fosters, encourages, and supports the stewardship and use of Virginia’s significant architectural, archaeological, and historic resources as valuable assets for the economic, educational, social, and cultural benefit of citizens and communities. Our programs include both the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places, Survey, Grants, Archaeology, Cemetery Preservation, African American and Tribal Outreach, the Historical Highway Marker program, 106 Review and Compliance, Conservation, Collections, Easements, and the Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program.

African American Cemetery & Graves Fund

The African American Cemeteries and Graves Fund (AACGF) provide grants to support the ongoing care and maintenance of historic burial grounds established on or before January 1, 1948, specifically for the interment of African Americans. At the start of each state fiscal year (July 1), the Department of Historic Resources (DHR) announces the availability of funding for these cemeteries, which are defined under the Code of Virginia §10.1-2211.2. Entities listed in this Code section, as well as all other qualified organizations, are required to submit an annual application to the Department by May 30 to receive funding for cemetery maintenance. 

Grant Opportunities

The fund offers two grant opportunities: the Basic Maintenance Grant and the Extraordinary Block Grant. New applicants must first apply for and receive a Basic Maintenance Grant—awarded at a rate of $5 per eligible grave—before qualifying for a block grant to support “extraordinary maintenance” projects. Some examples of each grant are as follows:

Basic Maintenance Grant: vegetation management, care of existing markers and monuments, and in-kind repair of existing roads, paths and parking areas.

Extraordinary Block Grant: installation of replacement markers, preservation planning and pre-approved Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey.