Best Steuben County Grants for Nonprofits in New York

The Edith Saxton Fund for Steuben County Youth Services, managed by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc., provides grants to support nonprofit projects that enhance the lives of youth in Steuben County. Eligible organizations must operate in Bath, NY, and meet specific nonprofit criteria. Grants focus on program implementation, capital projects, and organizational development, with a preference for initiatives that serve low-income or underserved youth.

The Chesapeake Bay Green Streets, Green Jobs, Green Towns (G3) Grant Program, funded by the EPA and Chesapeake Bay Trust, supports innovative green infrastructure projects enhancing community livability. With funding opportunities ranging from conceptual plans to full project implementation, this program aims to reduce stormwater runoff, improve urban green spaces, and boost local water health within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Eligible locations include parts of Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, as well as New York.

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) in New York provides essential funding for nonprofit organizations at high risk of terrorist attacks. It offers financial support for physical and cybersecurity enhancements, helping organizations located outside urban areas to strengthen their security measures. Prequalification in the New York Statewide Financial System is required for applicants. This initiative underscores the commitment of the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services to enhance community safety and resilience.

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program, managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, invites proposals for grants ranging from $75,000 to $500,000. These funds aim to support on-the-ground conservation projects that enhance vital fish and wildlife habitats within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Up to $8.5 million in funding is available, contingent on resources.

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program, led by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), invites proposals for Planning and Technical Assistance Grants up to $75,000. This initiative focuses on enhancing conservation and stewardship efforts in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, supporting local partners in effective project implementation. With an estimated $8.5 million available, applicants are encouraged to engage with NFWF staff for proposal guidance and feedback to strengthen their submissions.

The Corning Nonprofit Grants program supports community-based initiatives in education, human services, and culture. Eligible nonprofits that align with our criteria may apply for funding on a rolling basis. The application window for invited organizations runs from February 10 to September 15. We emphasize local impact within a 20-mile radius of Corning, NY, ensuring that our contributions foster collective growth and engagement in the community.

The Chesapeake Bay Small Watershed Grants, offered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the EPA, aim to enhance water quality and restore vital habitats in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Funding is available through two programs: SWG Implementation grants for direct on-the-ground actions, and SWG Planning and Technical Assistance grants to support community-based efforts. Projects must align with specific program priorities to qualify for funding.

The McGuire Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, provides $1,000 to eligible high school seniors and adult learners in Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. This scholarship emphasizes a strong work ethic and concern for others. Applicants must first complete the General Scholarship Application to be considered. It is aimed at reducing financial barriers to education, ensuring deserving individuals can pursue their academic and vocational goals.

Teams to Promote Aging in Place in OMH Supportive Housing (TPAP) 

Request for Proposals

The purpose of “Teams to Promote Aging in Place in OMH Supportive Housing or TPAP” Geriatric Demonstration Project is to facilitate supportive housing residents aging in place based on their priorities and preferences who are age 55 years and older, as well as residents younger than 55 years living with complex medical conditions that necessitate homecare. Older adults living in OMH supportive housing are at risk of losing community tenure due to emerging unmet care coordination, cross service system navigation, and homecare needs compounded by lack of connection to social determinants of health (SDOH) resources, and community and natural supports. Grant funding will support an enhanced home care rate, provision of at least one paid peer professional, and enhanced care coordination with the local office for aging and community partners that addresses social determinants of health and social engagement needs. OMH supportive housing residents identified as at risk for losing community tenure will be supported by an interdisciplinary care team of (1) an OMH supportive housing case manager, (2) a local office for aging case manager, (3) a homecare professional, and (4) at least one mental health or substance use/gambling peer professional who will collaborate with the residents to identify outstanding service and social needs. This will build a person-centered, holistic plan that is based on the older adult’s priorities and preferences for aging in place. A peer professional in this RFP is defined as a person certified, or provisionally certified, as a mental health Peer Specialist through the New York Peer Specialist Certification Board or a person certified, or provisionally certified, as a substance use/gambling Recovery Peer Advocate through the New York Certification Board. Grantees will also be required to collaborate with community-based organizations across service systems, including mental health, aging, substance use, and gambling harms, that also address social determinants of health and social engagement needs, such as, but not limited to, Social Care Networks, Rural Health Networks, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Older Adult Rural Support Program, Regional Economic Development Councils, or Downtown Revitalization Initiatives. This may include projects focused on community inclusion, the Dwyer Veterans Peer-to-Peer Support Program, club houses, OASAS and OMH recovery centers, older adult centers, faith-based, civic, arts, cultural organizations, etc. To foster sharing of best practices in meeting the holistic needs of OMH supportive housing residents, grantees and their partners will participate in virtual and in-person learning collaboratives that include crossdisciplinary training curriculum consisting of trainings chosen in consultation with the chosen grantees and the Geriatric Interagency Mental Health Substance Use Disorder Planning Council and the Master Plan for Aging advisory groups.

Wrap around funding will be available to provide services and goods not covered through existing reimbursement channels that support aging in place in OMH supportive housing. Examples include, but are not limited to, non-medical transportation, memberships to community groups and/or gyms, continuing education, supplies to support personal interests and hobbies, large print calendars, pill containers, and mobility aids. Wrap-around funding can also be used to provide technological support based on the residents’ needs and preferences. Examples include equipment (laptops, computers, personal devices, and/or internet access), online communities and devices to support engagement (Virtual Senior Centers, GetSetUp, Discover Live interactive virtual tours, animatronic pets, and online support through self-help and peer support groups), and technology literacy classes (for email, video chats with friends, children, grandchildren, etc., banking, patient portals, and education on fraud protection) are additional supports to help people use technology to age in place.

This RFP can be used to expand or enhance existing aging programs in OMH supportive housing or can be used to develop a new program that meets all the program requirements. OMH CR-SROs awarded the “Aging in Place Pilot” grant MH253015 may also apply for this grant for their supportive housing programs.

All types of proposals will be evaluated using the same criteria and applicants must identify the geographic designation they will serve, rural or non-rural. Rural counties in NYS are listed in the table below.

The SOAR Running Club Scholarship, provided by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, supports high school seniors and adult learners in Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. Eligible applicants must be members of a running club, preferably SOAR, and have a history of running during high school. Preference is given to students with volunteer hours benefiting the running community, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder educational opportunities.

The Kelly for Kids Community Grants aim to support disadvantaged and disabled youth in Western New York. Founded by former Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly, the foundation has distributed nearly $5 million to local children's charities. Grants are awarded to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on health and social services for children in need. The foundation prioritizes innovative programs and equipment improvements, ensuring funds are used effectively to make a significant impact in the community.

The M&T Charitable Foundation Grants provide essential support to a variety of organizations focused on enhancing community well-being. With a mission rooted in corporate responsibility, the foundation prioritizes partnerships with 501(c)(3) organizations in sectors such as arts, health, education, and human services. By investing in local initiatives, the foundation aims to create healthier communities and improve the quality of life for all stakeholders involved.

The New Car Dealers of WNY Charitable Foundation Grant aims to enhance the well-being of children and families in Western New York. By providing financial support to not-for-profit organizations, the foundation seeks to increase their visibility and impact. Registered not-for-profit organizations can apply for restricted grants, with the board of trustees meeting twice a year to review applications. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to community enrichment and support.

The Philip and Shirley Giardina Memorial Scholarship for the Sciences supports high school seniors and adult learners from Steuben County, NY, pursuing studies in chemistry or related fields. Administered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning, this scholarship aims to alleviate financial barriers to education, prioritizing applicants from Corning-Painted Post High School. Financial need is considered, but not mandatory for eligibility. The foundation is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities in the region.

The Nate Wilson Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc., supports high school seniors and adult learners from Steuben County, NY. Applicants must demonstrate strong character through sports and volunteering. The foundation aims to eliminate financial barriers to education, ensuring that deserving individuals have access to college or job skill training. Preference is given to graduates of Corning-Painted Post High School.

The Helen G. Schuyler Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc., supports high school seniors and adult learners in Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. Eligible candidates must plan to study fine or decorative art in college, with a focus on various visual art disciplines. This scholarship aims to eliminate financial barriers to education, fostering access to post-secondary opportunities for deserving individuals.

Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Grants Program delivered in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service supports efforts to improve the condition and connectivity of habitats for at risk and federally listed species.

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) is committed to operating in full compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and Executive Orders. We continuously monitor legal and regulatory developments to ensure our policies, procedures, and operations align with current federal directives. We encourage all applicants to do the same.  

The ability and extent to which NFWF is able to make awards is contingent upon receipt of funds from federal agencies and/or other funding partners. Final funding decisions will be made based on the applications received and the level and timing of funding received by NFWF.

The WILD Program Pillars are:

• Pillar 1: Restore, conserve, and connect fish and wildlife habitat
• Pillar 2: Improve water quality for fish, wildlife and people
• Pillar 3: Align the power of nature to adapt to changing landscapes
• Pillar 4: Expand access to nature and outdoor recreation for all Americans
• Pillar 5: Build partnership capacity to collaborate and coordinate actions

The Chesapeake WILD Grants Program has three distinct tracks:

• Collaborative Conservation
  • Grants of up to $200,000 will be awarded for projects that support and enhance the capacity of partnerships, networks, and other collaborative models working collaboratively to advance place-based, landscape-scale, and crossjurisdictional habitat restoration, conservation, and connectivity outcomes.
• Planning and Technical Assistance
• Implementation

The Barbara & Joseph C. Littleton Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, supports high school seniors and adult learners from Upstate New York or Northern Pennsylvania. Eligible applicants include those from families with single parents or non-parent guardians. Preference is given to students from Bath and Hammondsport with 80-90 averages, and those demonstrating self-initiative in academics or volunteerism. This scholarship aims to remove financial barriers to education.

The David Whitehouse Research Residency for Artists provides artists with the opportunity to engage with the Museum’s resources, including its extensive glass collections and the Rakow Research Library. Named after former executive director David Whitehouse, this residency supports the exploration of glass-related topics, offering transportation, room, and board. Residencies last from one to three weeks, and recipients are invited to present their research in a public lecture, fostering community engagement and artistic dialogue.

The William G. McGowan Charitable Fund provides grants focusing on Education, Human Services, and Healthcare initiatives. The fund prioritizes programs with measurable outcomes that aim to alleviate poverty and suffering. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits and align with the fund's mission to create sustainable change. Applications are accepted by invitation only in specific regions, with a rolling deadline. The fund seeks collaborative efforts to maximize impact across its program areas.

The JGS Fellowship for Photography offers a $7,000 cash grant to photography artists residing in New York State, excluding New York City. This competitive fellowship supports five artists engaged in traditional and experimental photography. Funded by The Joy of Giving Something, the fellowship aims to assist artists in creating new works and exhibitions. Eligible applicants must be at least 25 years old and have lived in a qualifying region of New York State for at least 12 months.

The NRA Foundation provides funding through its State Fund Grant Program to support local groups focused on shooting sports, education, and community outreach. Grants aim to benefit youth, women, veterans, and law enforcement, requiring applicants to have a valid EIN and meet specific eligibility criteria. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded over 60,000 grants totaling more than $473 million, ensuring that funds are used for charitable purposes as defined by the IRS.

What We Fund

Our founder, Tom Golisano, has deep and personal interest in supporting projects and initiatives that enhance the dignity and independence of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and that build inclusive communities. The Golisano Foundation is committed to improving the lives of people with IDD through transformational investments in organizations working to create inclusive communities where all citizens are valued as productive members of society.

With this in mind, the Foundation has adopted the following areas for funding consideration:

• Holds the principles of social justice in highest regard as demonstrated by agency’s mission, work and proposal; believes people with disabilities are powerful agents of change and that society as a whole benefits when all individuals reach their full potential and become contributing members of their community. 
• Supports throughout the life span and transitions for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families and caregivers including but not limited to the following areas: Educational support at various stages of development as well as life-long learning opportunities; employment services including supported, career development, vocational and life skills training; year-round preventative health services, fitness activities, physical and emotional wellness; expanded residential options for community living; caregiver respite; recreation; transportation, assistive technology, community awareness and advocacy. 
• Community-wide strategies that can grow best practices and effective programs to transformative scale; are easy to replicate and share broadly with the field. 
• Interdisciplinary and interagency alliances/collaborations/coalitions that bring together the expertise and perspectives of various disciplines including non-traditional human services providers such as businesses, higher education institutions, health systems, and government.
• Initiatives that target individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are underserved, isolated and/or have difficulty accessing services and programs; work to eliminate structural, economic or cultural barriers to services. 
• Person-directed services and planning with individuals and families involved in the selection, implementation and monitoring of one’s supports and services. 
• Applications for programs, capital projects and community planning initiatives related to the field of developmental disabilities will be given consideration.

We are willing and eager to partner with grantees, as appropriate, to achieve thes goals and maximize impact. Therefore the approval of a grant will be followed up with careful monitoring of the project as it unfolds. The devil is in the details, and to give responsibly means remaining involved as the project proceeds. While we rely on competent agency staff, outside consultants, and expert advisors to help us make reasoned decisions on funding and monitor the implementation of funded projects, we believe that the Foundation’s involvement in the details of a project is important to the beneficiary and the community we serve.

The Michigan Botanical Foundation Grant supports research and educational initiatives that enhance the understanding and preservation of Michigan's flora. Grants are available for projects involving rare species, environmental awareness, and educational programs. The foundation welcomes applications from individuals and organizations that align with its goals. Grant amounts typically range from $100 to $1,500, with preference given to projects based in Michigan or the Great Lakes region. Funding decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.

The Area Development Grant Program, managed by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), supports economic growth in Appalachia through investments in critical infrastructure and workforce development. Targeting 423 counties across 13 states, the program encourages local communities to collaborate with state governments to identify and implement impactful projects. Key focus areas include enhancing utilities, promoting entrepreneurship, and strengthening local leadership. This initiative aims to uplift the 26 million residents of Appalachia, fostering sustainable economic opportunities.

The ARISE Grants, offered by the Appalachian Regional Commission, aim to drive regional economic transformation across 13 Appalachian states. With funding of up to $63.5 million for implementation grants and $10 million maximum awards, the initiative supports collaborative projects that enhance community capacity and economic growth. The program encourages innovative partnerships to strengthen local economies and achieve socioeconomic parity, benefiting over 26 million residents in the Appalachian Region.

The Fred & Harriett Taylor Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations in Hammondsport and Steuben County. This grant aims to enhance community welfare by funding various projects that serve local needs. Interested applicants should ensure they meet eligibility requirements and can find more information about the application process through the foundation's official channels. The grant encourages innovative solutions to address pressing community issues.