Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

The ArtsFirst Grants, sponsored by the First Horizon Foundation and ARTSmemphis, support local 501c3 arts organizations in Shelby County that promote artistic excellence. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $30,000 and can be used for general operating support, project support, sponsorship, and capital campaigns. Organizations must have a minimum three-year history of quality arts programming and an active board. This funding aims to strengthen community arts initiatives and enrich cultural engagement.

The Braslau Family Travel Grant supports degree-seeking students and early career physicists in the US to attend APS March or April Meetings. Established in 2016, it honors the Braslau brothers, both distinguished scientists. Grants, ranging from $500 to $1,000, prioritize applicants lacking financial support, particularly underrepresented minorities and women. Funds are disbursed post-meeting, contingent on required documentation. This initiative fosters professional and academic interactions crucial for emerging physicists.

The SF WPS Community Garden Irrigation Meter Grant Program supports urban agriculture by providing up to $12,000 for irrigation water service installation. This initiative enables community gardens to track water usage efficiently, promoting sustainable practices. Additionally, a $1,300 rebate is available for backflow prevention devices. Grants are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, ensuring that eligible urban agriculture projects can thrive and contribute to local food systems.

Nature's Path's Gardens for Good program empowers communities by funding organic gardens that address food insecurity. Since 2010, it has donated $930,000 CAD to support 120 gardens. In 2023, grants of $6,500 each will be awarded to 20 gardens across the U.S. and Canada. Eligible applicants must be registered non-profits with urban organic agriculture projects that serve low-income communities, promoting sustainable practices and inclusivity.

The Anishinaabe Arts Initiative Grant, offered by the Region 2 Arts Council, supports artists who are enrolled tribal members and descendants residing in specific Minnesota counties. This grant funds exhibition, performance, and production costs, as well as materials and educational opportunities in the arts. It aims to enhance the careers of artists across all disciplines, thereby strengthening the cultural fabric of North Central Minnesota since 1980.

The Arts Build Communities (ABC) Grant, in collaboration with the Tennessee Arts Commission, supports projects that enhance access to arts experiences and improve community quality of life in West Tennessee counties. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and government entities. This grant offers a valuable opportunity for new applicants to engage with community-focused arts initiatives, fostering cultural sustainability and artistic outreach within the designated counties.

ArtsMemphis Operating Support Grant provides essential unrestricted funding to organizations that deliver year-round arts programs and experiences. This support aims to enhance Memphis' cultural vitality and strengthen local communities through the arts. To qualify, organizations must have a history of programming, a current 501(c)(3) status, and meet specific eligibility criteria. Applications are accepted from organizations that have engaged with ArtsMemphis since July 2019, ensuring a competitive application process.

The Arrowhead Regional Arts Council offers the Operating Support Grant, providing up to $15,000 annually to nonprofit arts organizations in Minnesota's Arrowhead region. This grant supports overall operations and programming expansion, benefiting various arts activities. Eligible applicants include arts organizations and groups with a fiscal sponsor that meet specific criteria. This initiative fosters a thriving arts community by ensuring organizations can sustain and grow their impactful programs.

Community Development Block Grant Planning 

Description/Guidelines

CDBG Planning Grants are available to eligible counties, cities and towns. Local governments may apply on behalf of special purpose districts, such as water or sewer districts; unincorporated areas; public school districts; or nonprofit or for profit organizations, such as a human resource development council, an economic development agency, an area agency on aging, a local domestic violence shelter, a Boys and Girls Club, local food bank, hospital, nursing home, etc. Counties may also apply for Planning grants on behalf of tribal utility authorities or in those cases where tribal members would be assisted like any other county residents.

Local governments may apply for one CDBG Planning Grant per funding cycle. Local governments with an open CDBG Planning Grant from a previous funding cycle are ineligible to apply for an additional Planning Grant until their current planning project is completed and closed out, except in special circumstances, with prior approval of Commerce. 

Consolidated local governments, such as Butte-Silver Bow and Anaconda-Deer Lodge, may apply for two Planning Grants per funding cycle and may have up to two Planning Grants open at any given time. 

The Global Innovation Grant, sponsored by the American Chemical Society, provides funding up to $5,000 for international collaborative projects and events. This grant aims to support ACS International Chapters, Technical Divisions, and Local Sections in addressing global challenges. Proposals should foster collaboration among these groups, with a focus on innovative solutions. All funded activities must be completed by December 31st of the award year, ensuring timely and impactful contributions to international cooperation.

The Community Seed Donations program by Seed Savers Exchange provides seeds to schools, community gardens, and nonprofits, ensuring that these resources are freely available to those in need. In addition, they offer disaster relief seed donations for organizations affected by recent natural disasters. To qualify, applicants must be nonprofits with U.S. shipping addresses. This initiative not only supports community growth but also promotes sustainability and resilience in the face of challenges.

The Brush Family Foundation Fund aims to empower communities in Downs, Kansas, through competitive grants that support charitable initiatives. By collaborating with donors and local organizations, the Fund promotes transparency, integrity, and excellence, ensuring that contributions directly impact the community. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) organizations, government, educational, and religious institutions. With quarterly deadlines for applications, the Fund seeks to inspire and connect gifts to meaningful causes, fostering a resilient and thriving community.

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Hanover Community Fund

The Hanover Community Fund is an unrestricted community grant fund that supports the Hanover, KS community. The Fund was created by the generosity of individuals who have contributed money for the charitable use to address the present and future needs of Hanover, KS.

From this endowed fund, the advisory committee annually determines and designates the amount of available funding in the form of community grants.

The Foundation’s Hanover Community Fund accepts applications once a year. Applications received outside of the grant cycle are not accepted.

All non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply as well as groups and individuals working on a charitable community project. For-profit organizations will not be considered unless the request is for a charitable project. Grants will be limited to projects within Hanover, KS.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Minneapolis Community Impact Fund

This is an unrestricted community grant fund for charitable projects that benefit the Minneapolis, KS community.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

The R2AC Community Arts Support Grant provides essential operational funding for arts organizations in the Region 2 area, enhancing their capacity to deliver accessible and innovative arts programming. This grant supports initiatives aimed at community engagement and arts education, with funding ranging from $2,000 to $7,000 annually, based on the organization's yearly expenses. Eligible applicants include arts organizations and affiliates that have demonstrated a commitment to serving their communities through the arts.

The Community Garden Grants aim to strengthen Central Ohio's neighborhoods by providing financial support for the creation and expansion of community gardens and greenspaces. With funding up to $3,000 and in-kind donations, the program focuses on enhancing local food access, education, and the environmental benefits of gardening. Eligible projects must benefit community groups and be completed within a year, helping connect residents to healthier lifestyles and community building opportunities.

The Digital Divide Grant Program aims to bridge the digital gap in low-income urban and rural areas by providing essential resources and access to technology. With an annual funding of $200,000, the program supports Community-Based Organizations with grants up to $50,000 for projects focused on digital literacy training, provision of take-home devices, and broadband access. This initiative is vital for fostering equitable opportunities in education and community engagement through technology.

The William E. and Thelma F. Housman Foundation for Medical Research Grant supports charitable organizations in Oregon focused on medical research. Grants are typically awarded for one year and can cover various types of support, including program and operating costs. The foundation aims to improve the lives of underserved communities through its funding efforts, promoting impactful medical research initiatives.

The Storefront, Security, and Lighting Improvement Grant assists Downtown Hillsboro commercial property owners in enhancing storefront designs and improving security through cameras and lighting. With a maximum grant of $40,000 and a required dollar-for-dollar match, the program aims to boost the aesthetic appeal of buildings, stimulate economic growth, attract investment, and foster community pride. This initiative focuses on visible improvements to increase overall attractiveness and safety in the downtown area.

OnPoint Community Credit Union, founded in 1932, is committed to supporting schools through funding for educational programs and direct contributions to public schools, PTAs, and alumni associations. With a focus on Economic Opportunity and Community Vitality, they prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion in their funding initiatives. Grants typically range from $250 to $2,500, supporting organizations that align with their core values within Oregon and SW Washington.

Creative Places Arts Facilities (CPAF) - Enhancement Grants

The Creative Places Arts Facilities (CPAF) program assists arts organizations in building, renovating, restoring, or enhancing facilities used for arts activities that benefit Alabamians.

Enhancement grants offer funding for equipment purchases and upgrades that will improve how cultural assets and works of art are presented, produced, exhibited, and/or preserved (lighting, sounds, seating, etc.). Applicants may request up to $50,000. No required match of applicant-funded expense

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

OCCF: Tescott Community Fund

This is an unrestricted community grant fund that supports the Tescott, KS community.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Republic County Community Action Fund

The Republic County Community Action Fund is an unrestricted community grant fund. The Fund was created by the generosity of individuals who have contributed money to the Foundation for charitable use to address the present and future needs of Republic County.

From this endowed fund, the Foundation Board annually determines and designates the amount of available funding in the form of community grants.

The applications are open to a variety of issues and target populations. However, successful applications are those that will help fulfill the Foundation’s mission to improve the quality of life for Republic County.

All non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply as well as groups and individuals working on a charitable community project. For-profit organizations will not be considered unless the request is for a charitable project. Grants will be limited to projects within Republic County.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Delphos Community Fund

This is an unrestricted community grant fund that supports the Delphos, KS community..

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

The Florida Medical Clinic Foundation of Caring Grant supports nonprofits in Hillsborough and Pasco counties, focusing on projects that benefit individuals and families in need. Grants are available for creative initiatives that align with the Foundation's mission and demonstrate measurable impact. Eligible applicants must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) charities and meet specific criteria. The Foundation aims to foster collaborations that drive positive change in the community, ensuring resources are used effectively and responsibly.

The Judson Daland Prize, awarded by the American Philosophical Society, honors outstanding achievements in patient-oriented research with a grant of $50,000. This prestigious award will be presented in November 2024, recognizing significant contributions in the field. Nominees must have conducted their work in a U.S. institution and should be no more than 15 years post-M.D. receipt, ensuring that emerging talents are acknowledged.

Central Indiana Community Foundation

Powered by generosity, passion, and innovative collaboration, Hamilton County Community Foundation brings together the strengths of our community to solve our most pressing challenges.

Hamilton County Community Foundation Strategic Grants

The Funding Opportunity

Strategic Grants provide larger, targeted investments in initiatives designed to create meaningful, long-term impact in Hamilton County. This funding pathway supports organizations pursuing significant opportunities—such as scaling proven programs, strengthening organizational capacity, or advancing transformational projects—in alignment with HCCF’s priority areas.

Strategic Grants may also support organizations navigating significant funding disruptions, where a targeted investment can help stabilize operations, preserve critical services, or position the organization for long-term sustainability.

What is Funded

Strategic Grants support high-impact opportunities that are significant in scope and positioned for long-term community benefit. Funding may include:

• Organizational capacity-building and expansion
• Transformational or large-scale community initiatives
• Capital campaigns (matching funds required)
• Time-sensitive opportunities to stabilize operations following the loss of significant funding

The Process

Strategic Grants are offered through an invitation-only process. HCCF proactively engages organizations whose work aligns with this funding pathway and demonstrates strong potential to create lasting community impact.

In prioritizing invitations, HCCF often considers organizations with a history of partnership or prior funding, while also remaining responsive to emerging opportunities and community needs.

Organizations that have not received an invitation but believe their work aligns with the goals of Strategic Grants may submit a brief request for special consideration. Due to the limited and highly targeted nature of this funding opportunity, submission of this form does not guarantee an invitation to apply.