Best Sarasota County Grants for Nonprofits in Florida

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 Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

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 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.

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.

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 Impact 100 SRQ Grant aims to empower women as philanthropists, offering a minimum of $100,000 for transformational local initiatives. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities with at least 24 months of operation and a commitment to transparency regarding legal actions. Initiatives should be impactful, sustainable, and serve the Sarasota and Manatee communities, with detailed budgets and clear definitions of expansion if applicable. Grants exclude funding for debt reduction or political activities.

The Selby Mission

By investing in people through academic scholarships and supporting capital projects of local organizations, we look beyond what is and enable change for what can be.

Traditional Grants

The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation awards “traditional grants” twice each year.

Organizations with budgets greater than $300,000 that primarily serve Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto counties have the opportunity to apply.

The Selby Foundation invests in capital support that will help nonprofits achieve more for those they serve.

The Lightning Community Hero program honors grassroots heroes making a positive impact in the Tampa Bay community. Established in 2011, it has awarded $50,000 grants to selected heroes, benefiting various charities. With 634 heroes celebrated and over $34M distributed, the program inspires community involvement and showcases the diverse contributions of individuals. Nominations are open to those aged 13 and older, encouraging participation in making a difference through volunteerism and philanthropy.

The Community Impact Grants by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County aim to empower nonprofits working towards economic stability for families and children. Grants up to $25,000 support initiatives that enhance community well-being, with a focus on health, social capital, workforce training, and education. The program also offers capacity-building funding to strengthen organizational effectiveness. Priority is given to projects addressing systemic barriers and fostering holistic support for families, ensuring sustainable community growth.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Cape Coral Community Foundation offers grants to small nonprofit organizations making significant impacts in Southwest Florida. These one-time grants aim to strengthen organizations and support community projects addressing local needs, such as hunger, education, and veteran services. Eligible nonprofits must have a 501(c)(3) status, a two-year work history, and an operating budget under $200,000. Applications from organizations with discriminatory policies are not considered.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The CFSC Capacity Building Grants aim to empower local nonprofits by enhancing their internal capabilities and sustainability in preparation for the upcoming Giving Challenge. Open to eligible organizations participating in the challenge, these grants provide essential training and resources to strengthen fundraising efforts and foster long-term growth. The application period runs for 30 days, with information sessions available to guide applicants. This funding opportunity is crucial for nonprofits seeking to maximize their impact and engagement.

The Lake Club Women’s Giving Circle empowers women through collective giving to positively impact Sarasota and Manatee communities. By supporting organizations that cater to the needs of women, children, and families, the Circle fosters awareness and mobilizes resources for lasting change. Organizations in these counties can apply for grants, provided they meet eligibility requirements, including nonprofit status verification. This initiative aims to uplift and transform communities through dedicated support.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

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 Environmental Humanities Program Grants by Florida Humanities Council aim to fund projects that explore the interplay between humans and the environment. These grants support innovative, collaborative initiatives that celebrate Florida's diverse landscapes and foster community engagement. Eligible applicants can request up to $10,000 for programs that demonstrate public impact and address local environmental issues. Priority is given to projects serving underserved communities and those located in economically distressed areas.

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.

The GCCF Community Grants, offered by Gulf Coast Community Foundation, aim to enhance community well-being through strategic partnerships with nonprofit organizations. With a focus on health, education, and cultural development, these grants support 501(c)(3) organizations that benefit residents in Sarasota, Charlotte, and Boca Grande. Grant requests are accepted on a rolling basis, ensuring timely support for impactful projects. Individual schools and booster clubs are not eligible for funding, as the foundation prioritizes broader community initiatives.

The Bradenton Branch AAUW Scholarship Foundation Fund, managed by the Manatee Community Foundation, supports adult students aged 25 and older pursuing education. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.00, and have completed required college credits. This initiative strengthens local community ties and promotes educational advancement, ensuring a brighter future for residents of Manatee and Sarasota counties.

The Lloyd Williams Scholarship Fund, established by the Manatee-Sarasota Building Industry Association, honors Lloyd Williams by providing scholarships to U.S. citizens in Manatee or Sarasota County. This initiative supports students pursuing education or vocational training in building construction and related trades. With over 25 years of philanthropic efforts, the Manatee Community Foundation remains committed to enhancing community quality of life through education, service, and informed giving.

The Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch Scholarship Fund, established by the Manatee Community Foundation, aims to support residents of Manatee or Sarasota County in pursuing vocational and educational training. Eligible applicants must be accepted into accredited institutions and are evaluated based on academic performance, financial need, community involvement, and career goals. Preference is given to students engaged in programs sponsored by the Rotary Club, fostering local talent and community development.

The West Florida Chapter CAI Scholarship Fund, established by the Manatee Community Foundation, aims to foster interest and excellence in property management and construction. This scholarship supports U.S. citizens or documented residents from Manatee or Sarasota Counties who are members of the Community Associations Institute or related to a member. It assists applicants seeking vocational training or pursuing degrees in relevant fields, considering their interests, activities, experience, and financial needs.

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.

The Rays Baseball Foundation Community Fund Grant supports local nonprofits in the Tampa Bay area, enhancing programs with over $1.8 million granted to more than 350 organizations. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) entities operating in specific counties and submit an online application. This initiative aims to foster community development and support critical local services.