Best Trenton Grants for Nonprofits in New Jersey

The Joseph James Scholarship, managed by 10,000 Degrees, offers support to students from Bayside Martin Luther King Jr. Academy who graduated between 2013 and 2019. Eligible candidates can receive funding for up to two years, depending on their attendance duration. This scholarship aims to combat educational segregation and provides recipients with access to vital internship opportunities, enhancing their career readiness and skill development in various fields.

The STEM Action Grants, offered by the Society for Science, support innovative nonprofit organizations with grants up to $5,000. Launched in 2016, this program has awarded $1.15 million to enhance public understanding of science and increase participation of underrepresented groups in STEM fields. Eligible organizations must be U.S.-based nonprofits focused on STEM education and outreach. Renewals for funding are allowed for up to three years, with additional capacity-building grants available to long-term recipients.

The Shore Protection Program in New Jersey aims to safeguard coastal areas from storm damage, erosion, and sea-level rise. It funds projects like beach replenishment and bulkhead construction, prioritizing initiatives that enhance public access and align with state resiliency efforts. Eligible applicants include municipalities and counties, with a minimum local cost share of 25% required. This program is crucial for maintaining New Jersey's coastline and protecting vital infrastructure from natural threats.

The Anderson Foundation for Autism Grant supports organizations aiming to enhance the quality of life for individuals with autism. Grants of up to $50,000 are available for qualified 501(c)(3) organizations, enabling them to implement impactful programs. The foundation not only funds its own initiatives but also extends support to other entities dedicated to similar goals. This initiative emphasizes a collaborative approach to improving autism care and support.

The New Jersey Commission on Spinal Cord Research offers a Postdoctoral & Graduate Student Fellowship aimed at supporting innovative research in spinal cord injury. Funded by the New Jersey Department of Health, this fellowship encourages promising researchers to contribute to advancements in treatment and rehabilitation for spinal cord injuries, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life in the community.

The Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund provides grants and loans to public and private entities for the assessment, investigation, and cleanup of hazardous substance discharges at brownfield sites. Established in 1993, it aims to support redevelopment efforts by covering 100% of assessment costs and up to 75% of remedial action costs. Funded by a portion of the New Jersey Corporate Business Tax, it fosters collaboration between the Department of Environmental Protection and the Economic Development Authority.

The Data-Driven Reporting Project (DDRP) supports local news journalists and freelancers in the US and Canada, focusing on document-based investigative projects for underrepresented communities. It provides financial awards up to $35,000, covering 80% of project costs, along with specialized training on Google Journalist Studio tools. Recipients are encouraged to share their core source documents post-publication to benefit the journalism community. Applications are open to small to midsize newsrooms and freelance journalists with proven track records.

The Technology Initiative Grant (TIG) program by the Legal Services Corporation aims to enhance legal services for low-income populations through innovative technology. It encourages partnerships with justice organizations and supports projects that improve service delivery and efficiency. With a minimum funding request of $40,000, the program seeks to implement new strategies or enhance existing technologies to provide high-quality legal assistance. The initiative fosters replication of successful methodologies from previous projects and other sectors.

LSC’s Basic Field Grants aim to enhance access to civil legal services for low-income individuals across the U.S. and territories. These grants support eligible organizations for up to three years through a competitive application process. The funding is allocated to specific service areas, which change annually, and focuses on providing comprehensive legal assistance. The program includes three types of service areas, ensuring diverse populations, including agricultural and Native American communities, receive necessary legal support.

The Vilcek Foundation's 2026 Prizes for Creative Promise in Fashion & Design and Fashion & Culture will award six $50,000 prizes to young immigrant professionals. This initiative recognizes early- and mid-career creatives in fields such as fashion design, writing, and styling, highlighting the vital contributions of immigrants to the arts in the U.S. Eligible applicants must have at least five years of experience and intend to pursue their careers in the country.

The Green Acres Nonprofit Grant in New Jersey supports tax-exempt organizations aiming to enhance public access to open space for recreation and conservation. This grant fosters the development of outdoor recreational facilities and the stewardship of natural resources. Eligible nonprofits can receive matching funds to acquire land, develop parks, or manage conservation projects, thus ensuring a lasting impact on community well-being and environmental sustainability.

The Disaster Grants Program by LSC provides vital funding to organizations aiding survivors of government-declared emergencies. It empowers legal aid groups to deliver essential services to low-income disaster survivors, ensuring access to legal assistance during crises. The program also educates communities on disaster legal services and prepares them for future emergencies, enhancing resilience and response capabilities. By supporting various grant types, the initiative addresses immediate needs and fosters long-term recovery strategies.

The Samuel "Eric" Storm Memorial Scholarship Fund offers $2,500 to students pursuing advanced degrees in Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, or Speech Therapy. Established in honor of Eric Storm, a dedicated physical therapist, the fund aims to support students in accredited programs. Eric's legacy includes his commitment to mentorship and community service, reflecting his belief in health care as a calling. This scholarship honors his impact on many lives and encourages future health professionals to follow in his footsteps.

The Autism Basic Research Pilot Project RFA (NJ) aims to support innovative research into the mechanisms underlying Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through two funding opportunities: Clinical Research Pilot Projects (3 years) and Basic Science Research Pilot Projects (2 years). This initiative encourages both established and new researchers to explore diverse approaches, including genetic and environmental factors, to improve understanding and treatment of ASD in New Jersey.

The Booker T. Jones Scholarship Fund offers $5,000 to students graduating from MINACT-run Job Corps programs who plan to attend college. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens with a high school diploma or GED, accepted at a four-year historically Black college or university, and have completed technical training at a MINACT Job Corps Center. This scholarship honors the legacy of Booker T. Jones, who dedicated his life to empowering disadvantaged communities through education.

The Autism Clinical Research Pilot Project RFA aims to support innovative research addressing the etiology and service delivery of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in New Jersey. With funding of up to $300,000 over three years, projects focusing on health equity and community-driven questions are encouraged. The program seeks to foster collaborations that enhance the well-being of individuals with ASD and advance health equity, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The Bettye Smith Brown Memorial Scholarship Fund honors a dedicated advocate for education, offering two $10,000 scholarships annually to high school seniors in Warren County, MS. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens with strong academic records and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship celebrates the legacy of Ms. Brown, who inspired many to pursue their educational dreams, ensuring her commitment to academic excellence continues to impact future generations.

The Congressional Science Fellowship Program offers a unique opportunity for Ph.D. holders to work at the intersection of science and government in Washington D.C. This prestigious fellowship, sponsored by ASA, CSSA, and SSSA, allows participants to apply their expertise as special assistants to Congress members. The fellowship begins in September 2025 and concludes in August 2026, providing an annual stipend and relocation expenses. Ideal for early to mid-career scientists, it encourages the use of scientific knowledge in public policy.

The Pedestrian Safety, Enforcement and Education Fund Grant, administered by the New Jersey Department of Law & Public Safety, allocates $250,000 annually to enhance pedestrian safety. This initiative focuses on engineering traffic signs, law enforcement compensation, and educational campaigns aimed at reducing pedestrian accidents. Municipalities and counties facing pedestrian safety challenges are prioritized for funding to implement effective solutions at critical intersections.

The New Jersey Commission on Spinal Cord Research offers the Exploratory Research Grant to support independent investigators in spinal cord research. This grant aims to facilitate innovative ideas and accelerate the development of treatments for spinal cord injuries. It provides up to $100,000 per year for two years, focusing on high-risk, high-reward projects that may lead to breakthroughs in the field. Collaborative and interdisciplinary proposals are encouraged to enhance research outcomes.

The TMCity Foundation Grant supports innovative research in neurocognitive healthcare, with funding ranging from $25,000 to $250,000. This grant aims to address critical challenges in mental health by fostering cutting-edge research and transformative technologies. Applicants, preferably 501(c)(3) organizations, can submit letters of inquiry on a rolling basis, with a focus on projects based in Southern California and the Greater Boston area. The Foundation is committed to catalyzing advancements in understanding the brain and delivering effective treatments.

The Provident Bank Foundation's Empowerment Grant focuses on uplifting marginalized communities by providing flexible funding for initiatives that promote economic self-sufficiency. With grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 over two years, the program supports organizations in education, human services, and workforce development. Eligible applicants must demonstrate meaningful community impact and align with the Foundation's funding priorities, which include promoting quality education, social safety nets, and career development opportunities.

The CRDA Government Grants aim to stimulate economic growth and community development in Atlantic City. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) non-profits with a proven track record of community service. These grants support projects that will directly benefit local residents, enhancing tourism and revitalization efforts. Ineligible expenses include operational costs and prior agreements. The CRDA is committed to leveraging public and private investments to create sustainable initiatives that will attract visitors and improve the quality of life in Atlantic City.

The ACS-Hach High School Chemistry Classroom Grant aims to enhance chemistry education by providing funding for innovative teaching ideas. Since its inception in 2008, over 700 teachers have benefited from grants of up to $1,800. Eligible applicants are U.S. high school chemistry educators, and the funding can be used for laboratory supplies, instructional materials, professional development, and student-led field studies, fostering a deeper understanding of chemistry.

The ACS Award for Encouraging Women Into Careers in the Chemical Sciences recognizes individuals who promote women's interests in chemistry, fostering their professional development. The award includes a $5,000 cash prize, a certificate, and a $10,000 grant to an academic institution designated by the recipient. Additionally, up to $1,500 for travel expenses to the award presentation will be reimbursed. This initiative highlights the importance of diversity in the chemical sciences and supports women's career advancement.

The Solid Waste Recycling Enhancement Act (REA) Higher Education Research Grant Program, managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, provides funding for innovative recycling projects. This program aims to enhance recycling demonstration, research, and education initiatives. Eligible projects must align with the objectives of the REA, focusing on professional training and community outreach. The grants are funded through the State Recycling Fund, ensuring sustainable support for environmental initiatives.

The HOME Community Housing Development Organizations program in New Jersey aims to provide funding for creating affordable housing units for low-income households. This initiative is targeted at certified non-profit developers with proven experience in affordable housing development and management, ensuring they meet specific criteria set by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. The program supports various project-related costs while excluding ineligible activities like public housing modernization.