Best Rio Arriba County Grants for Nonprofits in New Mexico

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

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.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

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 Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

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 Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The LANL Grants and Sponsorships program, operated by Triad National Security, aims to support local nonprofits in New Mexico through funding focused on economic diversity, K-12 STEM education, workforce development, and community nonprofit support. Eligible organizations must be registered 501(c)(3) charities and operate within specific counties. This initiative embodies a strong commitment to community engagement and development.

The Santa Fe Baby Fund Grant supports nonprofits in Mora, Rio Arriba, San Miguel, and Santa Fe counties focused on infants, toddlers, and their caregivers. Priority is given to organizations enhancing access to quality childcare, supporting the early childhood workforce, and advocating for young parents and kin caregivers. Nonprofits led by marginalized communities are especially encouraged to apply, fostering inclusive growth and improved early childhood services in the region.

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.

Competitive Community Grant- Civic & Economic Opportunities- Spring Cycle

Community members are aware of, engaged, and involved in issues that affect them.

We will support organizations that work to improve the following:

• Workforce development/job creation
• Support of hourly workers
• Open government
• Civic engagement
• Social and economic justice

Through direct service, policy advocacy and/or collaboration efforts, priority strategies will address:

• Improving access to employment opportunities and economic advancement by low-income and other disadvantaged community members
• Providing career counseling, job training, and other programs to low wage earners to advance their skills
• Encouraging residents to participate in leadership, policy, and funding decisions through workshops, public forums, and leadership training
• Support public policy, civic engagement, community organizing or public information to improve and strengthen local economy

Grant Sizes

We offer $5,000, $10,000, $15,000, or $20,000 general operating support depending on your annual budget:

• Organizations with an annual budget up to $50,000 may apply for a $5,000 grant;
• Organizations with an annual budget between $50,001 - $150,000 may apply for a $10,000 grant;
• Organizations with an annual budget between $150,001 - $500,000 may apply for a $15,000 grant; and
• Organizations with an annual budget of $500,001 or more may apply for a $20,000 grant.

Competitive Community Grant- Health & Human Services- Spring Cycle

All people are healthy and safe.

We will support organizations that work to improve the following outcomes in our communities:

• Access to affordable housing
• Food security
• Safety
• Access to health care
• Mental health services
• Healthy neighborhood living conditions
• Senior services

Through direct service, policy advocacy, and/or collaboration efforts, priority strategies will address:

• Affordable housing and shelter for homeless, rent-burdened, and at-risk populations, including eviction prevention
• Access to affordable and high-quality food, including food banks, pantries, and community centers that distribute food and promote healthy eating and work to address “food deserts”
• Efforts to address safety for vulnerable populations, including domestic violence and child abuse prevention, bullying prevention in schools, safety issues specific to immigrant populations, low wage workers and communities of color
• Access to health care, including programs providing un- and under-insured populations with culturally appropriate and equitable access to quality health and wellness programs services. Priority will be given to efforts applying social determinants of health lens to the work
• Mental health services, including school-based services, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation programs targeting marginalized communities, and groups working on cultural and generational trauma
• Building healthy communities, including built environment and infrastructure, environmental quality (toxins and air/water quality), affordable and reliable transportation, and parks and recreation
• Providing services targeted at senior well-being, including memory care, depression, audiology, dementia, exercise, home care, hospice, and medication guidance.
• Systems change, including public policy, civic engagement, community organizing or public information to improve health and wellbeing of local residents

Grant Sizes

We offer $5,000, $10,000, $15,000, or $20,000 general operating support depending on your annual budget:

• Organizations with an annual budget up to $50,000 may apply for a $5,000 grant;
• Organizations with an annual budget between $50,001 - $150,000 may apply for a $10,000 grant;
• Organizations with an annual budget between $150,001 - $500,000 may apply for a $15,000 grant; and
• Organizations with an annual budget of $500,001 or more may apply for a $20,000 grant.

The Competitive Community Grants - Spring Cycle invites proposals from organizations in Santa Fe, Mora, Rio Arriba, and San Miguel counties. Focus areas include civic and economic opportunities, health and human services, and empowerment of Black futures. The program supports initiatives that promote workforce development, affordable housing, food security, and community engagement. Grants range from $5,000 to $20,000 based on annual budget, fostering impactful change in local communities.

Santa Fe Community Foundation

The Santa Fe Community Foundation inspires philanthropic generosity, strengthens nonprofits, and fosters positive change to build a more vibrant, healthy, and resilient region. We envision a thriving northern New Mexico, where all people can find opportunity, build connections, and contribute to the well-being of their communities.

Funding for community nonprofits

The Santa Fe Community Foundation provides several opportunities for eligible nonprofits—both statewide and in our funding region (Santa Fe, Mora, Rio Arriba, and San Miguel counties).

Empower! Black Futures Community Fund

Black life, arts, and culture will be uplifted through grant making to nonprofits in the state of New Mexico.

We will support organizations that work on:

• Promoting community development through capacity building, strategic planning, professional development, and collaborative exploration.
• Fostering Black artistic expression and preserving cultural heritage through the presentation of diverse and emerging artists, the documentation and archiving of Black history, and the promoting of cultural exchange and community dialogue.
• Building financial literacy through the creation and distribution of financial resources, and providing real-world classes, counseling, and hands-on experiences to targeted businesses and families.

Grant Sizes

We offer $5,000, $10,000, $15,000, or $20,000 general operating support depending on your annual budget:

• Organizations with an annual budget up to $50,000 may apply for a $5,000 grant;
• Organizations with an annual budget between $50,001 - $150,000 may apply for a $10,000 grant;
• Organizations with an annual budget between $150,001 - $500,000 may apply for a $15,000 grant; and
• Organizations with an annual budget of $500,001 or more may apply for a $20,000 grant.

The Courageous Innovation Award, presented by the Santa Fe Community Foundation, celebrates nonprofits that utilize bold and innovative strategies to tackle persistent issues in northern New Mexico. Nominations are open to all community members, including nonprofit staff and volunteers, until May 8, 2026. This prestigious award reflects the Foundation's commitment to fostering positive change and supporting organizations that align with its funding priorities, such as Arts, Education, and Health.

The Quiet Inspiration Award, presented by the Santa Fe Community Foundation, recognizes nonprofits in northern New Mexico that have quietly made impactful contributions to their communities over at least three years. The award celebrates organizations that build trust and support among diverse groups while aligning with the Foundation's funding priorities. Nominations are open until May 8, 2026, inviting all community members to honor these vital contributors.

The Resiliency Award, presented by the Santa Fe Community Foundation, honors nonprofit organizations that enhance the resilience of vulnerable communities facing challenges such as natural disasters and public health crises. This annual award, part of the 40th Piñon Awards, seeks nominations from community members and aims to recognize organizations with a strong track record in northern New Mexico. Eligible nonprofits must have operated for at least three years and align with the Foundation's funding priorities.

About Us

The Santa Fe Community Foundation inspires philanthropic generosity, strengthens nonprofits, and fosters positive change to build a more vibrant, healthy, and resilient region. We envision a thriving northern New Mexico, where all people can find opportunity, build connections, and contribute to the well-being of their communities.

Piñon Awards

Now in its 40th year, our annual Piñon Awards recognize local nonprofits making extraordinary contributions to northern New Mexico communities. First held in a board member’s living room, the awards ceremony has become a beloved fall tradition filling the La Fonda ballroom with supporters, community leaders, and friends new and old. Thank you for joining us in honoring the nonprofit leaders who make our region a better place for all.

Each year, the Santa Fe Community Foundation proudly presents Piñon Awards to nonprofit organizations making extraordinary contributions to northern New Mexico communities. We are currently accepting nominations for our 40th Annual Piñon Awards through Friday, May 8, 2026.

Tried & True Award

An organization that has served the community for over a decade with consistent and high-quality programs, services, and opportunities despite changes in the external environment.

The Michael S. Currier Scholarship Fund, established by the Santa Fe Community Foundation in 2000, honors rancher Michael S. Currier. It provides renewable scholarships to low-income students from northern New Mexico pursuing undergraduate degrees at accredited institutions. Scholarships, nearly $3 million awarded since inception, cover tuition, fees, and education-related expenses. Eligible students must demonstrate exceptional talent and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5 while enrolled full-time in their respective educational programs.

The Northern New Mexico Health Grant, funded by Con Alma Health Foundation, aims to enhance healthcare access for underserved communities in New Mexico. With grants up to $20,000, it supports initiatives that focus on health equity, culturally appropriate services, and workforce development. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations that demonstrate a commitment to improving health outcomes for marginalized populations, particularly in rural and tribal areas. This grant prioritizes collective benefits over individual services, fostering community-wide health improvements.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

The Competitive Community Grants - Fall Cycle by the Santa Fe Community Foundation offers funding opportunities for nonprofits in Santa Fe, Mora, Rio Arriba, and San Miguel counties. Grants range from $5,000 to $20,000 based on the organization's annual budget, supporting diverse areas such as arts, education, and animal welfare. Eligible organizations must be at least three years old, tax-exempt, and serve local communities without discrimination. This program aims to enhance community welfare through impactful projects.

The Nusenda Community Rewards Giving program, established by the Nusenda Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations and public schools in New Mexico. Grants range from $2,500 to $15,000, aimed at enhancing education, healthcare, environmental initiatives, the arts, and community services. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) or public schools, serving specific New Mexico areas. The foundation emphasizes alignment with its values and the impact of proposed programs. For more details, visit the FAQs on their website.

The Early Opportunities Initiative Grant by the Brindle Foundation aims to enhance early childhood services in New Mexico, focusing on prenatal to age three. With an emphasis on vulnerable populations, this initiative supports innovative programs and advocacy efforts to strengthen early childhood systems and direct services. By addressing critical needs and fostering collaboration, the grant seeks to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.