Best Travel and Tourism Grants in Oklahoma

Southern U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations active for over three years can seek single-year support for programs addressing hardship, such as poverty relief, education, health care, disaster relief, or conservation, including work in Oklahoma. Focused on alleviating tangible needs, Robinson Foundation invites nonprofits whose projects create clear, meaningful impact and serve children, families, veterans, animals, or vulnerable communities.

Nonprofit organizations and public institutions working on ecotourism, conservation, or restorative economies in Oklahoma and other U.S. regions can seek support for projects on private lands, ecosystem restoration, or conservation policy. Grants from Biophilia Foundation help travel and tourism initiatives that integrate biodiversity conservation, nature-based solutions, and sustainable local economies, with typical awards of US $5,000 - US $25,000.

Timothy S.Y. Lam Foundation

The mission of the Timothy S.Y. Lam Foundation is to support research, education, and training within the hospitality industry by bestowing scholarships and grants to those seeking careers or advancement in the hospitality industry; funding education programs that promote the hospitality industry; and awarding research grants to those interested in blending academia with practical industry know-how. 

Primary Goals: To support the professional development and academic advancement of the hospitality industry by continuing to support the foundation’s current programs, promote recipients, maintain positive working relationships with associations, and provide support to underserved communities with individuals pursuing hospitality education, training, and job advancement. 

In 2024, TSYLF introduced new initiatives to support and empower underserved communities and underprivileged and underemployed individuals. We invite all hospitality associations, students, research teams, and professionals to explore how the Timothy S.Y. Lam Foundation can support your educational and professional endeavors in the field of hospitality. 

Research Grants

Grantmaking Focus

The foundation supports programs that are practical and directly benefit the hospitality industry. Of particular interest are efforts that apply rigorous academic research to solve practical hospitality issues. All grants are measured on the direct results of improved efficiency and efficacy for the hospitality industry. The Foundation emphasizes activities in the following areas and organizations that work in the following areas:

• Research programs that improve employment possibilities and career advancement for those entering or incumbents in the hospitality industry.
• Research programs that enhance efficiency in the hospitality industry.
• Articles or textbooks that contribute to the comprehensive body of knowledge and/or promote industry practices, standards, and ethics.
• Practical and applicable research projects with immediate benefit to the hospitality industry.

Grants are payable to the organization or institution and not to an individual.

Grant funding is dispersed in two payments. One payment will be made upon award approval and the second will be made once the research grant report has been submitted.

Research Grant funding should be used for the following:

• TSYLF funds should be used for research facility overhead and general maintenance.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable software, computer systems or programs to organize, track and store data.
• TSYLF funds can be used for tangible research items such printed documents, writing utensils, books, office supplies or related tools and materials needed to document research and practical observations.
• TSYLF will fund equipment or materials used for hands-on training such as cleaning, and sanitation supplies, safety items or other personal protection, furnishings found in hotels, restaurants or other hospitality related facilities being used to observe applicable productivity or conditions.
• TSYLF funds can be used to obtain proper permits for conducting research or staging a practical observation or production space.
• TSYLF funds can be used be used for creating resource material and related distribution costs to hospitality professionals, businesses and educators.
• TSYLF funds can be used for support materials or services for hosting focus groups, interviews or other activities related to the research topic.
• TSYLF funds should be used wisely for reasonable and cost-effective accommodations for staff, research team and subjects such as meals, travel or lodging.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable mileage or transportation fees for research subjects, team and special advisors.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable travel accommodations related to research topic data collection.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable compensation to the research team for their time in collecting, analyzing and organizing data related to the funded research topic.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable compensation to the research subjects.
• TSYLF funds can be used for expenses related to community engagement.
• TSYLF funds can be used for fees related to attending a hospitality event that aligns with the funded research topic.

The NATIVE Act Tribal Tourism Cooperative Agreement aims to enhance cultural heritage tourism through collaboration with Tribes, Tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations. By providing technical assistance and capacity-building support, this initiative seeks to increase visitation and enrich tourism activities while respecting native traditions and values. The selected recipient will coordinate with federal agencies to ensure effective implementation, with funding available for an initial year and potential continuation for up to five years based on performance.

Students pursuing tourism or hospitality-related majors can receive scholarship support through the Visit Bucks County Tourism & Hospitality Scholarship, administered by Bucks County Foundation. While designed for students from Bucks County, Oklahoma students with ties to that area and planning accredited college, university, or trade school study in tourism fields may be eligible.

Students in Oklahoma studying aviation or hospitality can access funding to support higher education and tourism-related careers. Grants from The Columbus Foundation help U.S.-based full-time students with a 3.5 GPA or higher, clean records, and eligibility to work and reside in the U.S. pursue business aviation and hospitality pathways.

American Indian and Alaska Native undergraduate juniors and seniors in tourism, gaming, financial, or hospitality fields, and graduate students in business or gaming/hospitality-related degrees in Oklahoma can access need-based scholarships; awards US $2,500 - US $5,000 for full-time study. Grants from Native Forward Scholars Fund support eligible Tribal members and descendants studying at accredited U.S. institutions, which may benefit those preparing for tourism careers.

Community, economic development, tourism, recreational, agricultural, environmental organizations and municipals in Oklahoma communities served by GRDA can receive event sponsorship funding to enhance local quality of life. Grants from Grand River Dam Authority help Oklahoma tourism and related groups promote community enrichment, recreation, and economic development around GRDA-served cities and lake areas.

The FY26 Bureau of Land Management Invasive and Noxious Plant Management program focuses on preventing and controlling invasive species that threaten public lands and native plant communities. These invasive plants impose significant economic burdens and disrupt ecosystems. The program aims to enhance detection, rapid response, and education on invasive species, while also promoting rehabilitation efforts and biological control to protect valuable resources on public lands.

Oklahoma nonprofits and other 501(c)(3) organizations working in health, education, or community services can access funding through Labcorp Charitable Foundation to expand equitable care and education. Programs such as food pantries, healthcare for underserved populations, STEM education, and health screenings may be eligible, including initiatives that support local tourism-related communities.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on housing, jobs, hunger, arts, environment, or community development can seek sponsorship support that may benefit travel and tourism efforts in Oklahoma and beyond. With a mission to advance economic mobility, Bank of America Charitable Foundation provides regional U.S. sponsorships that strengthen the economic, social, and cultural life of communities.

Oklahoma 501(c)(3) nonprofits and aligned for-profit organizations working in preservation, education, or wellness can access funding to tell impactful stories about their work. The Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation’s Storytelling Grant supports projects that highlight efforts like wildlife conservation, historic preservation, outdoor recreation, and wellness initiatives, which may include ecotourism or tourism-related programming.

Oklahoma nonprofits leading strong community partnerships that address significant social issues can access funding recognition through the Mutual of America Foundation’s national Community Partnership Award. These U.S.-wide awards honor collaborative models that measurably improve communities, demonstrate impact across multiple locations, and can be replicated or scaled, which may benefit tourism and ecotourism initiatives.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Oklahoma working on basic needs, community development, or cultural enrichment can seek support for programs like housing, hunger relief, workforce readiness, and arts access. Focused on strengthening community vitality, Ameriprise Financial invites U.S.-based nonprofits with strong volunteer engagement and measurable outcomes to apply.

Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, government programs, and volunteer fire companies in Oklahoma can apply for State Farm Companies Foundation’s Good Neighbor Citizenship grants to support safety, education, and community development initiatives. Programs that improve auto or home safety, strengthen neighborhoods, or expand education and job readiness may benefit, including tourism-related projects that enhance community safety and vitality.

Focused on basic needs and economic mobility, Nordstrom invites U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits to apply for community grants supporting youth and families, including in Oklahoma. Eligible organizations can receive US $5,000 - US $20,000 in unrestricted funding for food, shelter, clothing, workforce development, mentorship, scholarships, and related services near Nordstrom store communities.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits conducting charitable, educational, scientific, or medical work can apply for funding that must be used within the U.S., including Oklahoma. Grants from Sidney Stern Memorial Trust help well-managed organizations expand programs with broad impact, which may include community initiatives that support local travel, tourism, or related economic development.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Oklahoma that support children, education, or health and human services may be eligible for charitable contributions to strengthen community programs. Costco Foundation supports youth services and child-focused initiatives, with applications reviewed in 4–6 weeks and decisions based on community need, measurable outcomes, collaboration, and diversified financial support.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

The Kroger Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities through significant charitable contributions, having donated over $1.9 billion in the past six years. Their focus on combating hunger through the Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative exemplifies their commitment to social impact. Annually, they provide over $300 million to nonprofit organizations aligned with their mission, promoting health, education, and disaster relief while fostering diversity and inclusion. This initiative reflects Kroger's belief that strong communities are a shared responsibility.

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 Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

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.