Best Surprise Grants for Nonprofits in Arizona

The W.R. & Floy A. Sauey Family Foundation, established in 1998, aims to enhance community welfare through philanthropy. It prioritizes local charities that support child and family issues, particularly in areas where Nordic Group Member Companies operate. The foundation seeks to create lasting impacts by funding initiatives that directly benefit the families associated with these companies, fostering a stronger quality of life in the communities served.

The West Valley Lutheran Thrift Shop (WVLTS) Grant provides financial support to non-profit organizations that align with its mission of serving communities in the West Valley, Arizona. The grant focuses on projects that enhance Christian outreach, especially for vulnerable populations and youth education. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the mission and financial viability. The WVLTS aims to fund impactful initiatives that contribute to the well-being of the community, with a preference for projects over $10,000.

The Zurn Foundation Grant supports community well-being through financial contributions and volunteer efforts. With a focus on Basic Needs, Education, and Environment, the Foundation aims to enhance quality of life by providing essentials, promoting STEM education, and protecting natural resources. Organizations applying for this grant should align with these pillars to foster positive community impact. Applications must be submitted by May 1 for the July meeting or by November 1 for the January meeting.

The Andersen Corporate Foundation, established in 1941, aims to enhance lives and strengthen communities where its employees reside. It has contributed over $65 million to various causes, focusing on housing, healthcare, hunger relief, and education. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, primarily supporting nonprofit organizations that align with these areas, particularly in communities where Andersen operates, ensuring a lasting impact on local initiatives.

The Sunwest Bank Charitable Foundation Grant aims to foster a philanthropic corporate culture by supporting local nonprofit organizations focused on the welfare of vulnerable children and families. The Foundation prioritizes cash grants to organizations addressing food, housing, health, safety, and education needs in communities served by Sunwest Bank. Eligible nonprofits must align with the Foundation's mission and engage in a transparent application process, with extra consideration given to organizations where Sunwest employees volunteer.

The Greater Sun Lakes Community Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for seniors in the East Valley, supporting both existing and new charities. This initiative focuses on health, education, and cultural activities, ensuring that organizations can sustain their programs beyond initial funding. By providing detailed plans for utilization and future funding strategies, the foundation encourages community engagement and charitable giving, creating a vibrant network of support for the aging population.

The APS/Phoenix Suns STEM Teacher Grants support K-12 teachers in Arizona by funding innovative, hands-on STEM projects in classrooms. With awards of up to $2,500, these grants aim to inspire students' love for science, technology, engineering, and math. Each year, a total of $50,000 is available for projects that promote creative learning experiences, from robotic programming to aquaponic farming. Grants are available for classroom projects occurring between January and May.

BAE Systems offers community investment grants aimed at enhancing the well-being of military families and supporting future workforce development in STEM fields. As a U.S. subsidiary of a global defense and aerospace leader, they require applicants to be recognized 501(c) organizations. The initiative underscores a commitment to charitable partnerships that uplift local communities and contribute positively to society.

The Union Home Foundation Grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that promote economic self-sufficiency through financial literacy and housing initiatives. Established in 2015, this grant has awarded over $2 million to various nonprofits across the U.S. Grants typically start at $1,000 and are available for a one-year period. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and can only apply once per year, following specific eligibility criteria.

The Caesars Foundation supports community-focused organizations through monetary and in-kind donations, prioritizing strategic areas like social equity, climate action, and mental health. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized nonprofits and educational institutions operating within the U.S. Requests must align with these focus areas to enhance community impact. Organizations that discriminate or operate outside the U.S. are ineligible. By fostering collaboration, the foundation aims to uplift vulnerable populations and promote sustainable practices.

The Peoria Diamond Club Grants Program aims to support local youth in achieving educational, athletic, therapeutic, and artistic goals. It provides funding for individual projects, as well as group initiatives by non-profit organizations and schools. Eligible applicants must be local organizations with appropriate tax status, and grants cover direct costs associated with projects. However, funds cannot be used for operating deficits or personal benefits. This program encourages community engagement and youth participation.

The Applied Materials Foundation offers grants focusing on education, arts and culture, civic engagement, the environment, and girls' empowerment. These grants are designed to meet local community needs and support innovative projects that enhance educational opportunities, promote cultural activities, and foster civic participation. The foundation prioritizes collaboration with local organizations in areas where Applied Materials operates, ensuring impactful contributions to community resilience and sustainability.

The Dermody Properties Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community well-being through support for the arts, education, and families, particularly children and the elderly. Established in 1988, the foundation has provided over $3.65 million in donations to various nonprofits, including grants and scholarships. Eligible organizations must have IRS 501(c)(3) status and be located within 30 miles of Dermody's projects. Grants typically range from $500 to $3,000, reflecting a commitment to corporate philanthropy.

Arizona Community Foundation

For more than four decades, the Arizona Community Foundation has worked in tandem with generous individuals, families, and organizations to address some of the biggest challenges facing our state.

Our Mission: Lead, serve, and collaborate to mobilize enduring philanthropy for a better Arizona.

Arizona Public Service (APS) Grant

Since 2001, APS has partnered with Arizona Community Foundation to provide funding to qualified nonprofit agencies that support growth and community needs in the west valley. Agencies eligible for funding must be nonprofit organizations with at least 3 years of continued operation serving residents in the geographical area: North to Bell Road (extend boundary line west when Bell Road ends), West to 459th Avenue, South to Estrella/Gillespie Dam, and East to 19th Avenue.

Statement of Purpose

Through an open, competitive cycle the APS funds will benefit & support eligible nonprofits through grants in the areas of arts & culture, community development, education, environment, and human services.

In addition, the APS Fund encourages and supports projects that meet the following criteria:

• serve a variety of ethnic, economic or cultural backgrounds
• include new or creative solutions to problems or issues
• involve volunteers and in-kind gifts that demonstrate community involvement
• foster cooperative efforts between organizations

The Tolleson Community Grant Program offers financial assistance to nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status to support projects that enhance health and human services for residents. This initiative aims to improve the overall quality of life in Tolleson by funding impactful community services and activities. Eligible organizations must operate within the designated service area as outlined in the provided boundary map.

The Jaburg & Wilk Foundation Grant supports local non-profit organizations in Arizona that focus on the arts, education, children, and at-risk programs. The foundation prioritizes financially sound organizations with strong community support and effective program delivery. By fostering private giving and enhancing service providers, the foundation aims to address public needs in Maricopa and Pinal counties. Grants are awarded following approval by the Grant Committee, ensuring thorough vetting of applications.

The PLTW Engineering - Program Expansion initiative aims to enhance STEM education by increasing access to Project Lead The Way (PLTW) programs in communities served by Burns & McDonnell. This partnership focuses on empowering students through real-world learning experiences, helping them develop essential skills for future careers. Starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, grants will support schools in expanding their existing PLTW Engineering programs to foster greater participation and engagement in STEM fields.

The PLTW Engineering - New Program, supported by Burns & McDonnell, aims to empower U.S. students through STEM education. By offering at least one PLTW Engineering course in the 2026-2027 academic year, schools can enhance their curriculum and foster critical skills. This initiative not only increases access to valuable programs but also prepares students for future challenges in college and careers, ensuring they thrive in an evolving world.

The Neighborhood Block Watch Grant Program, led by the City of Phoenix and the Phoenix Police Department, aims to enhance community safety and quality of life. This program offers funding to empower neighborhood groups in creating innovative crime prevention activities. Applicants are encouraged to participate in training workshops to assist with the grant application process. For more information and to view training schedules, visit the program’s website.

The PLTW Gateway - Program Expansion initiative, led by Burns & McDonnell in partnership with Project Lead The Way (PLTW), aims to enhance STEM education by increasing access to PLTW programs for students in eligible communities. This program empowers students through real-world applied learning experiences, promoting essential skills for college and careers. Grants will support schools in expanding their existing PLTW Gateway programs starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, fostering a brighter future through education.

The Historic Preservation Demonstration Project Program, funded by the City of Phoenix, aims to rehabilitate significant historic buildings while preserving their architectural integrity. The program provides up to 50% funding for eligible projects, encouraging restoration and reuse of historic properties such as museums and churches. By adhering to the city's General Design Guidelines and the Secretary of the Interior's Standards, the program supports sustainable preservation efforts that enhance community heritage and promote responsible development.

The PLTW Gateway - New Program, in partnership with Burns & McDonnell, aims to enhance student engagement in STEM by providing teachers with essential resources and support. Starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, eligible schools can apply for grants to introduce and expand PLTW programs, fostering real-world skills through applied learning. This initiative targets schools with significant free and reduced-price lunch populations, promoting equity in education across various U.S. counties.

The PLTW Launch - Program Expansion initiative by Burns & McDonnell aims to enhance access to STEM education in U.S. schools. This program focuses on empowering students by providing real-world learning experiences and essential skills. Grants will support schools in expanding PLTW programs during the 2026-2027 academic year, benefiting students from underserved communities. By fostering a deeper understanding of STEM, the initiative seeks to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem solvers.

The PLTW Launch - New Program initiative, sponsored by Burns & McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by providing grants to eligible schools within specific U.S. counties. Schools must implement PLTW modules over two academic years, ensuring access to real-world learning experiences for students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. This program emphasizes the importance of empowering educators and fostering student engagement in STEM fields to prepare them for future careers.

The Wellik Foundation Grant Cycle

Introduction

The mission of The Wellik Foundation is to preserve the unique quality of life of the Wickenburg area. Established by Vi Wellik in 1998, The Wellik Foundation was created to serve Wickenburg in perpetuity and to be the catalyst to preserve and advance the quality of life in Wickenburg. Since its inception in 1998, The Wellik Foundation has granted more than $14 million to charitable organizations serving the Wickenburg area.

The Wellik Foundation encourages proposals that:

• Leverage matching funds
• Engage strategic, mission-driven collaborations/partnerships
• Build the capacity of the organization
• Support direct service projects

The Wellik Foundation will accept proposals that benefit and support the quality of life in Wickenburg through the following focus areas:

• Maintain and promote the western lifestyle in the Wickenburg community
• Education
• Social Services
• Healthcare
• Economic Development
• The Arts

The BNSF Railway Foundation provides grants to enhance community quality of life across 28 states, focusing on educational, cultural, and social service initiatives. With over $150 million contributed since 2000, the foundation emphasizes projects with strong local engagement and BNSF employee involvement. Eligible organizations include public charities, local governments, and tribal governments, while ineligible entities encompass religious organizations and those with discriminatory practices. Priority is given to environmental, health, and cultural projects.

The Historic Preservation Exterior Rehabilitation Assistance Program aims to support the preservation of historic buildings in Phoenix by offering financial assistance to homeowners. Eligible property owners can receive grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 for exterior rehabilitation projects. This program promotes the retention of historic architectural elements while ensuring that homes in designated historic districts or listed on the city's register are maintained and restored appropriately. Applicants must adhere to specific guidelines and deadlines to qualify.