Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

California Department of Education

California will provide a world-class education for all students, from early childhood to adulthood. The Department of Education serves our state by innovating and collaborating with educators, schools, parents, and community partners. Together, as a team, we prepare students to live, work, and thrive in a multicultural, multilingual, and highly connected world.

Start-Up Subgrant For the Planning, Implementation, Replication, and Expansion of Charter Schools

Purpose and Background

The PCSGP is a subgrant program funded by the federal Charter Schools Program (CSP). The PCSGP is a discretionary grant program. California was awarded approximately $93 million in grant funds for 2024–29. States that are awarded these federal funds distribute them in subgrants to charter school developers, known as PCSGP Start-Up Subgrants in the state of California, to assist in the development and initial operations of newly established or conversion charter schools as well as to assist in the expansion and replication of high-quality charter schools.

PCSGP Start-Up Subgrants identify funding levels and terms into four subgrant types: Planning, Implementation, Replication, and Expansion. For FY 2025, the CDE has an approved pipeline and budget to award approximately 14 subgrants. The actual number and type of subgrants awarded during each RFA competition may vary based on demand. If all authorized awards are not approved for funding, the CDE may open additional RFA competition events for new applicants until all of the allocated funds have been awarded.

The NEA Big Read Grant, managed by Arts Midwest, aims to foster community engagement through shared reading experiences. This initiative funds nonprofit organizations to host diverse reading programs, encouraging cross-cultural understanding and creativity. With grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000, organizations can conduct book discussions, workshops, and creative events to strengthen community ties and promote civic engagement. The program highlights local voices and invites participation from various audiences, creating a vibrant literary culture.

The Friend of Education Award honors individuals in elected or appointed positions who significantly contribute to public education in Maine. It is presented by the Maine Education Association, which advocates for educators' rights and aims to ensure equitable education for all students. Nominations are open to any Maine resident holding such a position, recognizing their advocacy at local, state, or national levels. This award highlights the importance of supporting educators and improving educational standards.

The New England States Touring (NEST) Grant supports nonprofit organizations in New England to present performances, readings, and screenings by regional and international artists. With three funding tiers—NEST 1, NEST 2, and NEST 3—this initiative aims to enhance community engagement, foster collaborations, and promote diversity in the arts. Eligible organizations can receive up to $10,000 to fund projects that occur between June 1, 2025, and August 31, 2026.

The Anne Sheehan Political Action Award, offered by the Maine Education Association, recognizes members who have shown exceptional commitment to advocating for public education. This award highlights the importance of political engagement in education, honoring those who actively participate in elections, lobbying, and community initiatives. Through this grant, the MEA aims to support educators dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities and ensuring equitable conditions for all students in Maine.

Maryland State Arts Council 

Founded in 1967, The Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) is an agency of the State of Maryland's Department of Commerce that plays an essential role, ensuring every person has access to the transformative power of the arts.

MSAC advances the arts in our state by providing leadership that champions creative expression, diverse programming, equitable access, lifelong learning, and the arts as a celebrated contributor to the quality of life for all the people of Maryland.

A&E District Operating Support Grant

Annual operating grants support activities, programs, and projects in Arts & Entertainment (A&E) Districts throughout Maryland. Appointed management entities for designated A&E Districts may apply for MSAC operating support funds to support district priorities. 

Use of Funds

Grant funds may be used for:

• Salaries and administrative expenses
• Events, programming, and projects in the A&E District
• Marketing of the A&E District and/or its businesses, artists, events, etc.
• Re-granting to local organizations, artists, and schools to support arts programming or projects
• Services for district artists, businesses, and arts organizations
• Other operating expenses

Tennessee Emergency Management Agency

TEMA supports local jurisdictions during emergencies in managing the flow of assets, services, and teams to address the emergency; activating the State Emergency Operations Center to coordinate and communicate with critical emergency functions; and reaching out for mutual aid from from other departments or agencies of the state, from local jurisdictions, from other states, and from the federal government.

After the emergency has passed, TEMA then works with local jurisdictions to conduct damage assessments, to ensure local needs are met, and to coordinate any federal assistance programs provided as a result of the disaster to help people recover after disasters and emergencies.

Governor's Response and Recovery Fund

The Governor’s Response and Recovery Fund (GRRF) was established to provide flexible, grant-based financial support to help communities, organizations, businesses, and landowners recover from disasters. The fund is designed to address unmet disaster recovery needs when traditional aid may not fully cover recovery costs. GRRF is intended to support a broad range of recovery efforts, from immediate needs to longer-term projects, helping ensure that affected areas across Tennessee have access to resources needed to recover as quickly and efficiently as possible.

The fund may be available following a Governor's State of Emergency declared executive order or proclamation.

What the Fund Can Support

Grant awards can be used for a range of recovery and rebuilding purposes, such as:

• Repair or replacement of damaged public infrastructure or facilities
• Restoration of nonprofit facilities and community service providers
• Repair or recovery of business property, equipment, or operations
• Support for agricultural or forest-land recovery for affected farmers or landowners
• Any other recovery-related project that addresses documented disaster losses or damages and aligns with Fund guidelines

If approved, funds are provided as grants, not loans — no repayment is required so long as funds are used for the approved project. Grants may be awarded in full or in part, depending on available funding and competing needs. The fund seeks to maximize its impact by supporting as many eligible projects as possible, while prioritizing critical needs.

Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP) 

Provides more than $1.1 billion for states and urban areas to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to and recover from acts of terrorism and other threats. 

State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) - Hawaii

Provides $415 million to support the implementation of risk-driven, capabilities-based State Homeland Security Strategies to address capability targets. States are required to dedicate 35 percent of SHSP funds to law enforcement terrorism prevention activities. In the State of Hawaii, Honolulu is the designated urban area.

The Bob Woodruff Foundation Grants aim to support veterans and their families facing challenges after military service. By raising awareness and providing funding, the foundation focuses on improving health and well-being through direct service programs. Key criteria include enhancing access to healthcare, promoting healthy lifestyles, and fostering sustainability in organizations serving this community. This initiative plays a crucial role in helping veterans thrive post-service.

Accessibility Microgrants

Purpose

To make the arts accessible to all Virginians by supporting improvements in an organization’s space, facilities, or programming.

Description

The Accessibility Microgrant provides funding up to $2,000, with a 10% (1:10) cash match requirement, for projects that meet a specific accessibility need in an organization’s arts offerings. In-kind or federal matches will not be accepted. Funds will be distributed on a rolling basis in two cycles throughout the fiscal year; once funds are depleted for a given cycle, no more projects will be approved.

This grant supports a wide variety of projects, including minor, non-transformational facilities improvements. While it does not fund construction or installation, it may fund supplies, like signage, that would later be installed

The William Male Foundation Grant supports individual artists in San Diego County, providing funding between $1,000 and $5,000 for artistic development, training, and project execution. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and demonstrate artistic potential through recommendations and work samples. The foundation prioritizes artistic merit, financial need, and community impact. Applications are open year-round, with decisions made biannually on April 1 and October 1.

The TLA Disaster Relief Fund Grant, established by the Texas Library Association, provides financial assistance ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 for libraries affected by natural disasters. Eligible libraries include academic, public, school, and special libraries. Funds can be utilized for technology, repairs, and other recovery needs. The grant application will be evaluated based on damage extent, service impact, fund usage, and funding availability, with a preference for TLA institutional members.

The Goldman Fund, established in 1992, focuses on reproductive health and rights, providing vital support for organizations that enhance access to abortion services. They invite proposals from public charities with a 501(c)(3) status and prioritize projects that improve training for abortion service delivery. The fund supports initiatives across multiple states, excluding projects limited to a single state, except California, and considers requests by invitation only.

The Berks County Association of School Retirees Scholarship and Mini-Grant Fund, managed by the Berks County Community Foundation, supports educational initiatives in Berks County, Pennsylvania. Established in 1994, it offers teacher mini-grants for innovative classroom projects and provides an annual scholarship to a public high school senior pursuing an education major. This fund exemplifies the foundation's mission to enhance community welfare through philanthropy and support for local students and educators.

The Fund for Unitarian Universalism Grant, managed by the Unitarian Universalist Association, supports innovative projects that enhance UU community life across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. This grant prioritizes programs with broad denominational impact and encourages diverse funding sources. It aims to nurture Unitarian Universalist principles while fostering a spirit of generosity among applicants. However, it excludes funding for projects limited to individual organizations or ongoing UU activities.

The Fund for International Unitarian Universalism Grant, offered by the Unitarian Universalist Association, aims to strengthen international Unitarian/Universalist projects. This grant prioritizes innovative programs that fulfill unmet needs and encourages diverse funding sources. With a maximum grant size of $20,000, it supports organizations fostering Unitarian values, social justice, and community life. Applications are accepted annually, with a deadline of March 15, unless it falls on a weekend.

The Association of American Educators Foundation offers the National Teacher Scholarship to promote professional excellence among educators. This scholarship provides funding for various professional development opportunities, including conferences and learning materials, with awards up to $500. Available to full-time educators who haven't received AAE funding in the last two years, the scholarship aims to enhance the quality of education across the nation while supporting educators' growth and collaboration.

The Association of American Educators Foundation offers classroom grants of up to $500 for full-time educators to support various educational projects and materials. These funds can be used for items such as books, software, and art supplies. Grants must be utilized within one year of approval, and competition is strong due to high application volumes. Note that applicants from specific states will not be eligible for national funding.

The El-Hibri Foundation Grant focuses on advancing the inclusion of American Muslim communities through nonprofit organizations. It supports initiatives that promote societal norms, enhance organizational capacity, and foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders. The Foundation encourages applications from 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. that align with its mission. While it does not accept unsolicited proposals, interested parties may pitch their projects for potential funding consideration.

The Aspirus Scholars Program, developed by Aspirus and community partners, addresses healthcare needs in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan. This initiative offers scholarships up to $175,000 to medical students at the MCW-CW Campus in exchange for a service commitment with Aspirus. The program aims to alleviate the debt burden of future medical providers while fostering a commitment to primary care and community connection, ensuring quality healthcare for generations to come.

The Shohet Scholars Grant Program, established by the International Catacomb Society, supports innovative research on the Ancient Mediterranean from the Hellenistic Era to the Early Middle Ages. This annual grant aims to assist promising scholars in various fields such as archaeology and history to produce significant, original work. Awards range from $2,000 to $30,000, enabling interdisciplinary projects that offer fresh perspectives on traditional topics. Eligibility includes ICS membership and a doctoral degree by the award date.

The Advanced Practice Clinician (NP or PA) Fellowship Program at Aspirus Health offers a unique 6-month rotation designed for new graduates to excel in hospital medicine. Aspirus Health, a nonprofit system located in Wisconsin and serving parts of Minnesota and Michigan, operates 18 hospitals and numerous outpatient locations. With a dedicated team of nearly 14,000, including 1,300 employed physicians and advanced practice clinicians, this fellowship is also open to experienced APCs transitioning between departments.

The Physician and Advanced Practice Clinician Fellowship Program at Aspirus Wausau Hospital offers a 12-month, full-time opportunity for recent family medicine graduates and practicing physicians. This program aims to enhance skills in hospital medicine, with flexible start dates and two fellowship spots available annually. Aspirus Health, a nonprofit health system in Wisconsin, operates multiple facilities and employs a large team of healthcare professionals, ensuring comprehensive training and support for fellows.

The Youth Making Change Grants program, offered by The Fund for Santa Barbara, empowers youth aged 12-24 to lead projects that address social issues in Santa Barbara County. With a maximum request of $3,000, these grants support youth-led initiatives that promote social justice and community engagement. The program fosters leadership and philanthropy skills among teens while ensuring their voices are central to the projects. Since 2008, over $350,000 has been awarded to support impactful youth-led projects.

The Clayton Jackson McGhie Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 2005, supports students from the Duluth-Superior area. Applicants are encouraged to submit essays or creative works that reflect their understanding of race relations and community service. The fund, initiated by local residents to honor the memory of three African American men lynched in 1920, awards $3,000 for one year, with school selections occurring in the spring.

The Allen Butler Minority Law Enforcement Scholarship Temporary Fund offers financial support to young people of color from Duluth pursuing law enforcement training at post-secondary institutions. Established in 1996 by Duluth's African American Men’s Group in honor of Officer Allen Butler, this fund aims to empower eligible candidates with a $1,000 award for one year, promoting diversity and inclusion in law enforcement careers.

The SCAC Emerging Artist Grants aim to support emerging artists in South Carolina through funding of up to $1,800, along with mentorship and professional development. This initiative is designed for artists active for one to five years across various disciplines, including visual arts, music, and theatre. Priority is given to projects in designated Opportunity Initiative Counties, ensuring a focus on local artistic growth and sustainability.