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Best Transportation Grants

Find transportation grants for nonprofits providing mobility access, vehicle purchases, and transit assistance.

349

Available grants

$179M

Total funding

$37.5K

Median grant

349 grants
$179M total
$37.5K median

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349 Results based on applied filters

Waterman Foundation Grant

Kern Community Foundation
Private
Kern County, California
Up to US $50,000
The Waterman Foundation Grant, established by the Bakersfield Downtown Rotary Club, offers up to $50,000 in funding for local nonprofits addressing community needs. Eligible projects must be sponsored by a Rotary Club member and meet specific criteria including nonprofit status. Grants are intended for capital projects, not operational expenses, and organizations may only submit one application per funding round. This initiative aims to enhance services in areas such as health, housing, and education.
Education Senior Services Homelessness Services +19 more

The Arras Foundation: Healthy Community Grant

The Arras Foundation
Private
Chester County, South Carolina, Lancaster County, South Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Arras Foundation's Healthy Community Grant supports community nonprofits in Fort Lawn, Great Falls, and Lancaster County. The grant aims to promote healthier communities through collaboration and innovative solutions that leverage community assets. Interested applicants must complete pre-proposal steps, including workshops and exploratory meetings, before submitting their Letter of Inquiry. The Foundation invites eligible organizations to join their mission of fostering positive change and enhancing community well-being.
Economic Services & Development Health Care Access & Delivery Human & Social Services +4 more

VCF: Regional and Local Impact (RALI) Grant

Vermont Community Foundation
Private
Vermont
US $15,000 - US $25,000
The RALI Grant, offered by the Vermont Community Foundation, is an invitation-only program aimed at fostering regional and local impact through community-driven projects. Grants typically range from $15,000 to $25,000 annually, supporting initiatives that address economic equity, education, climate, health, and community leadership. Successful proposals will demonstrate collaboration, readiness, and measurable impact, ensuring they effectively tackle barriers to opportunity for Vermonters. Interested organizations must complete the Nonprofit Connection Form to be considered.
Agriculture Forestry Education - Preschool / Early Learning +38 more

BCBSNM: Blue Impact Major Grants

Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Mexico
Corporate
New Mexico
US $20,000 - US $100,000
Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Mexico offers Blue Impact Grants to support nonprofit organizations with sustainable programs that align with five key areas of focus, including Economic Opportunity, Nutrition, and Health Solutions. These grants aim to enhance community health and wellness across New Mexico while adhering to the mission of providing accessible, quality healthcare. Organizations must meet specific eligibility criteria, including holding a 501(c)(3) status and targeting local needs.
Cancer / Oncology Cardiovascular Diseases & Systems Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases +12 more

Community Investment Fund - Ft. Madison (IA)

Freeport-Mcmoran Copper & Gold Foundation
Corporate
Lee County, Iowa, Madison County, Iowa
More than US $20,000
The Community Investment Fund in Ft. Madison, IA, administered by Freeport-McMoRan, aims to foster sustainable community development through education, economic opportunity, and capacity building. The fund prioritizes initiatives that enhance local resilience and support individuals and organizations in navigating economic challenges. Eligible projects should directly benefit the community and typically require funding requests over $20,000. This initiative seeks partnerships that lead to transformative change and increased opportunities for residents.
Education - Higher Education Recreation Education - Preschool / Early Learning +20 more

Affordable Housing & Sustainable Communities Round 10

California Strategic Growth Council
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities (AHSC) Program plays a vital role in California's climate strategy by funding projects that promote affordable housing and sustainable transportation. By reducing reliance on personal vehicles, it aims to decrease greenhouse gas emissions. The program supports new construction, renovation of affordable housing, and transportation infrastructure, including transit amenities and safe walking and biking options, thereby fostering equitable access to essential services for all residents.
Carbon / Greenhouse Gas Reduction Equitable & Affordable Housing Green Infrastructure +1 more

Strategic Partnerships Transit

California Department of Transportation
State/Local Government
California
US $75,000 - US $500,000
The Strategic Partnerships Grants, provided by the California Department of Transportation, support multimodal transportation planning activities through a competitive application process. Grants range from $75,000 to $500,000 and focus on addressing transportation deficiencies on the State highway system. Various planning activities are encouraged, including climate adaptation and sustainable community initiatives, aiming to meet California's greenhouse gas reduction targets by 2030 and 2050.
Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems

Sustainable Transportation Planning Grants - Sustainable Communities Competitive

California Department of Transportation
State/Local Government
California
US $50,000 - US $700,000
The Sustainable Transportation Planning Grants support local and regional planning efforts aimed at enhancing active transportation, safe routes to schools, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and 2050. With a total funding of $29.5 million, these competitive grants also include subcategories for climate adaptation planning and strategic partnerships. Eligible projects must align with state goals and contribute to comprehensive transportation strategies, with grant amounts ranging from $50,000 to $700,000.
Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems Carbon / Greenhouse Gas Reduction

Sustainable Transportation Planning Grants - Strategic Partnerships

California Department of Transportation
State/Local Government
California
US $100,000 - US $500,000
The Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program, initiated by the California Department of Transportation, aims to enhance the state's multi-modal transportation system while addressing climate change. Funded by Senate Bill 1, it allocates approximately $25 million annually to support local and regional planning initiatives. The program emphasizes partnerships with Metropolitan Planning Organizations and offers grants ranging from $100,000 to $500,000, fostering strategic projects that improve transportation infrastructure and promote sustainable communities.
Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems

Sustainable Transportation Planning Grants - Climate Adaptation Planning Grant

California Department of Transportation
State/Local Government
California
US $100,000 - US $1,500,000
The Climate Adaptation Planning Grant, part of California's Sustainable Transportation Planning Grants, provides $3 million to support local and regional efforts in addressing climate vulnerabilities in transportation infrastructure. This grant encourages the development of adaptation plans that aim to mitigate damage from climate change and extreme weather. Open to applicants with ongoing or new adaptation efforts, it fosters strategic planning for roads, railways, and other critical transport systems across the state.
Climate Change Resilience & Equity Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems Green Infrastructure

Community Planning and Capacity Building (Planning) Grants

California Air Resources Board
State/Local Government
California
Up to US $500,000
The Community Planning and Capacity Building Grants, offered by the California Air Resources Board, provide up to $500,000 to assist communities in planning for equitable transportation solutions. These grants focus on early-stage planning, outreach, and workforce development, particularly benefiting Tribal governments, rural communities, schools, and first-time applicants. This funding aims to promote clean transportation initiatives and enhance local readiness.
Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems Green Infrastructure

Smart Growth America: Community Connectors Grant Program

Smart Growth America
Private
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $25,000
The Smart Growth America Community Connectors Grant Program supports small and mid-sized cities in addressing divisive infrastructure caused by dangerous roads. With funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this program aims to reconnect communities through temporary street safety projects while fostering skills and partnerships. Eligible teams must represent populations of 50,000 to 500,000 and include both government and community-based organizations. Priority will be given to projects benefiting low-income communities historically affected by disinvestment.
Pedestrian & Bike-Friendly Infrastructure Public Infrastructure Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems +1 more

Section 5310 – Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Grant

East-West Gateway Council of Governments
State/Local Government
Franklin County, Missouri, Jefferson County, Missouri +6 more
Unspecified amount
The Section 5310 – Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Grant, administered by the East-West Gateway Council of Governments, aims to enhance transportation access for seniors and individuals with disabilities in the St. Louis region. This federal funding supports projects that improve mobility, including vehicle acquisition, travel training, and barrier removal at bus stops. Eligible applicants include non-profits and government entities focused on serving these communities.
Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems Disability Care & Services Senior Services

Area Development Grant Program

Appalachian Regional Commission
State/Local Government
Adair County, Kentucky, Adams County, Ohio +421 more
Unspecified amount
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.
Economic Services & Development Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Entrepreneurship +3 more

Coachella Valley - Proposition 68 Grant Program

California Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy
State/Local Government
Riverside County, California
More than US $2,500
The Coachella Valley - Proposition 68 Grant Program, administered by the California Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy, provides funding to public agencies, nonprofits, and tribes for projects that enhance watershed health, land conservation, and community resilience. This initiative aligns with the 2018 California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection, and Outdoor Access Act, promoting public access to parks and encouraging water conservation efforts while addressing climate change impacts.
Outdoor Recreation Parks & Public Spaces Trail Creation & Maintenance +8 more

Quantum in the Community (QIC) Grants

Quantum Foundation Inc
Private
Palm Beach County, Florida
Up to US $25,000
The Quantum in the Community (QIC) Grants aim to enhance health in Palm Beach County by funding organizations that address basic needs like food, housing, and transportation. With grants of up to $25,000 awarded annually, the foundation has invested over $160 million in local nonprofits over its three-decade history. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) designated and have been operating in the county for at least six months, ensuring a meaningful impact on community health.
Basic Human Needs Food Access & Hunger Real Estate & Housing +1 more

Sales Tax Exclusion (STE) Program

California State Treasurer's Office
State/Local Government
California
Up to US $10,000,000 in in-kind support
The Sales Tax Exclusion (STE) Program, managed by the California Alternative Energy and Advanced Transportation Financing Authority (CAEATFA), provides significant tax incentives for manufacturers in California who invest in equipment aimed at promoting alternative energy, advanced transportation, and recycling. This program not only supports the economy by creating high-paying jobs but also encourages sustainable practices in manufacturing. With a funding cap of $110 million annually, eligible applicants can receive up to $20 million for their projects.
Manufacturing Engineering Renewable/Sustainable Energy Recycling +5 more

Blue Impact Grants

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas
Corporate
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Blue Impact Grants, offered by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, aim to enhance community health by supporting nonprofit organizations in Texas. With a focus on social determinants of health, these grants prioritize initiatives addressing economic stability, nutrition, and local health solutions. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and demonstrate financial capacity to manage projects effectively. The goal is to foster health equity and improve access to essential services for underserved populations across the state.
Economic Services & Development Poverty Alleviation & Services Nutrition & Healthy Eating +12 more

Multi-Year Grants

United Way Of Southwestern Pennsylvania
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Armstrong County, Pennsylvania +3 more
Unspecified amount
The United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania is launching its Multi-Year Grants program, with applications opening in January 2026 for funding starting in July 2026. This initiative aims to support nonprofit organizations addressing critical community needs across five counties. Key investment priorities include meeting basic needs, promoting financial stability, and enhancing educational success for youth. Interested applicants can attend information sessions from October to November 2025 to learn more about the grant process.
Basic Human Needs Food Access & Hunger Food Security +17 more

Westly Prize

Westly Foundation
Private
California
US $40,000
The Westly Prize, awarded by the Westly Foundation, supports young social innovators in California with innovative solutions to community challenges. Since 2012, the prize has provided up to $145,000 in unrestricted funding to finalists, encouraging creativity in categories such as AI, education, and health. The program seeks applicants under 28 years old who demonstrate strong leadership and impactful solutions, fostering a culture of growth and innovation.
Health & Medicine Youth Development & Leadership Artificial Intelligence (AI) +9 more

Transportation Library Research Grant

Northwestern University
Private
Cook County, Illinois
Up to US $3,000
The Transportation Library Research Grant at Northwestern University supports research projects leveraging its extensive transportation collections, awarded annually up to $3,000. Grants cover transportation, accommodation, and meal expenses for on-site visits. Open to academic and independent researchers across various disciplines, applicants may resubmit proposals in subsequent years. Researchers affiliated with Northwestern University are ineligible. This grant promotes interdisciplinary studies and creative practices, making valuable resources accessible for impactful research.
Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems

Career and Technical Education Secondary Supplemental Enhancement Grant

Connecticut State Department of Education
State/Local Government
Fairfield County, Connecticut, Hartford County, Connecticut +6 more
US $25,000 - US $50,000
The Career and Technical Education Secondary Supplemental Enhancement Grant, established under Perkins V, aims to enhance the academic and vocational skills of secondary students in CTE programs. With funding ranging from $25,000 to $50,000, it supports initiatives that foster partnerships among educational institutions and industry, ensuring students gain the skills needed for high-demand careers. This grant promotes innovative educational practices and increases opportunities for underrepresented populations, contributing to workforce development and economic competitiveness.
Architecture Education Agriculture +12 more

Funds for Whatcom County: Health & Wellness Grants

Whatcom Community Foundation
Private
Whatcom County, Washington
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Whatcom Community Foundation is offering Health & Wellness Grants to local nonprofits in Whatcom County. These mini grants, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, aim to tackle staff fatigue and burnout. Eligible organizations can propose various initiatives including wellness programs, ergonomic improvements, and staff retreats. The funding is designed to enhance physical and mental health, foster a positive work environment, and ultimately improve job satisfaction among nonprofit teams.
Wellness & Healthy Living Art & Culture Community Services +33 more

Spartanburg County Foundation: Continuous Improvement Grant

Spartanburg County Foundation
Private
Spartanburg County, South Carolina
Up to US $35,000
The Spartanburg County Foundation's Continuous Improvement Grant aims to enhance the lives of Spartanburg County residents by funding nonprofit organizations that focus on quality of life, educational achievement, and economic mobility. Grants of up to $35,000 are available to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations. The foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate alignment with its mission, utilize data-driven strategies, and foster community engagement, ensuring diverse populations receive necessary support and resources.
Community Culture & Heritage Food Access & Hunger Entrepreneurship +16 more

Driving a Cleaner Illinois - Volkswagen (NOFO) (IL)

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
State/Local Government
Champaign County, Illinois, Cook County, Illinois +16 more
US $100,000 - US $18,000,000
The Driving a Cleaner Illinois program, managed by the Illinois EPA, offers funding for mobile source electrification projects. This initiative utilizes resources from the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust, and the EPA's Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA) Program. As funding is limited, applicants are encouraged to apply promptly to support cleaner transportation solutions in Illinois.
Electrification Green Infrastructure Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems

Local Partnership Program – Competitive (CA)

California Transportation Commission
State/Local Government
California
Up to US $25,000,000
The Local Partnership Program – Competitive (CA) aims to fund counties, cities, districts, and regional transportation agencies that have voter-approved fees or taxes for transportation improvements. With a maximum funding request of $25,000,000 per project, this program aligns with SB 1 to address California's highest transportation needs while ensuring a fair distribution of economic impacts from increased funding.
Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems

Spartanburg County Foundation: Nonprofit Effectiveness Grant

Spartanburg County Foundation
Private
Spartanburg County, South Carolina
Up to US $10,000
The Spartanburg County Foundation offers Nonprofit Effectiveness Grants of up to $10,000 to enhance the internal capacity of community-based organizations in Spartanburg County. These grants aim to strengthen governance, financial management, and overall organizational effectiveness. Eligible organizations must be recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving Spartanburg residents, demonstrating alignment with the Foundation's mission and measurable impact. The Foundation seeks to promote philanthropy and community engagement, ensuring that funds are utilized to benefit local residents directly.
Community Culture & Heritage Food Access & Hunger Entrepreneurship +16 more

Transportation Grants Highlights

Transportation grants provide funding for projects such as improving public transit, acquiring vehicles, and developing infrastructure. The following grants empower nonprofits and local agencies to enhance mobility, support sustainability, and address transportation needs in communities.


Search Instrumentl's Transportation Grants Database


Explore 94 funding opportunities for transportation projects, with $54M in resources. Instrumentl simplifies the grant search process with customized funding recommendations, deadline tracking, and funder insights to enhance transportation systems and services.

Grant Insights : Transportation Grants

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Uncommon — grants in this category are less prevalent than in others.

94 Transportation Grants grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

33 Transportation Grants over $25K in average grant size

29 Transportation Grants over $50K in average grant size

20 Transportation Grants supporting general operating expenses

87 Transportation Grants supporting programs / projects

400+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Food Access & Hunger

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Transportation grants?

Most grants are due in the second quarter.

Q1
23.0%
Q2
25.8%
Q3
25.8%
Q4
25.4%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Transportation Grants?

Grants are most commonly $105,000.

$2,500 $2.5 K Min.
$105,000 $105 K Median
$1,226,144 $1.2 M Average
$12,550,000 $12.6 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Transportation grants are available to organizations that focus on infrastructure development and mobility services. Donors look for organizations that serve underserved populations. Access-based transit programs that target elderly citizens, people with disabilities, and low-income areas are encouraged to apply for transportation funding.

Grants in transportation typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q2, with 25.8% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q1.

Transportation grants exist to develop better transportation access systems in cities and rural areas. They also support upgraded framework elements and sustainable measures to ensure the infrastructure lasts longer. The main objective is to build transportation systems which maximize safety, contribute to economic growth, and promote green sustainability.

On average, grants in transportation provide funding between $2,500 and $12,550,000, with typical awards falling around $105,000 (median) and $1,226,144 (average). These insights can help nonprofits align their funding requests with what grantmakers typically offer in this space.

Organizations looking to fund fast, safe, efficient, accessible and convenient transportation systems can apply to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Other government-funded awards include the USDA Forest Service Greening Fund in collaboration with the Bureau of Land Management. State and local governments also provide funds to improve transportation infrastructure in their respective areas.

Instrumentl lists dozens of grants worth over $250 million for transportation initiatives.

To have the best chance at securing grant funding for transportation initiatives, organizations should:

  • Prioritize comprehensive project planning –Develop a detailed transportation proposal that incorporates sustainability measures and demonstrates measurable benefits.
  • Include measurable data models – Use data and metrics to highlight the effectiveness and long-term advantages of your project.
  • Demonstrate strong partnerships – Partner with related organizations and community members to strengthen your proposal and increase funding potential..

Need help writing a strong funding request? Follow our step-by-step guide to crafting compelling grant proposals.

Instrumentl helps nonprofits efficiently identify transportation grants that match their needs in seconds. After identifying potential grants, organizations can track deadlines, manage application details, and save multiple applications at once. In addition, Intrumentl provides key insights and donor giving data to make grant prospecting easier for you. Discover how the University of Illinois centralized grant information to make work more collaborative and efficient.