Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

The Capital Design Grants for Arts and Culture, offered by the New York State Council on the Arts, aim to support arts and culture nonprofits with budgets under $10 million. These grants, ranging from $50,000 to $500,000, are designed for organizations in the early stages of design for eligible capital improvements. No-match options are available for smaller organizations, ensuring broad access to funding for essential design documents.

The GMED Student Travel Award, sponsored by the American Physical Society (APS), aims to enhance student participation in the APS Global Physics Summit. Up to three awards, each providing $450 for travel reimbursement, will support students presenting their research. Awardees will be recognized during the GMED business meeting at the summit, with opportunities to engage with the Executive Committee and promote scientific outreach. This initiative fosters a community dedicated to advancing physics and supporting student involvement.

Summary of County Services

Services county MUST provide:

• Establish and maintain local health departments, jails and courthouses.
• Provide emergency medical services through an advisory council.
• Authorize the issuance of bonds to fund road and bridge projects.

Non-profit Grant

Program Description

Hamilton County provides discretionary grants for nonprofit organizations that meet certain criteria. Awards are provided based on application score and funding available. The Grant Program is intended to provide funding for services provided by organizations that without providing those services the County Hospital and/or other governmental entity may need to consider the development of such programming.

Any funds awarded must be supported by other funding sources or documented in-kind services and may only be distributed to organizations headquartered in Hamilton County. Preference for funding will go to those organizations that provide services in furtherance of County goals and without the providing of these services the County Hospital and/or other governmental entity may need to consider the development of such programming.

The APA: Essay Prize in Latin American Thought rewards the best unpublished, English-language philosophical essay in Latin American thought, aiming to foster original arguments related to Hispanic American and Latinx experiences. Sponsored by the American Philosophical Association, this annual prize includes a $500 award and publication in the APA Newsletter on Hispanic/Latino Issues in Philosophy. Eligible authors must be APA members and accept the publication terms.

The Maine Education Association's Partnership for Caring program provides crucial support for local affiliates facing unexpected expenses. By matching contributions dollar-for-dollar, up to $1,500, MEA empowers educators and their families during challenging times. This initiative underscores MEA's commitment to enhancing the welfare of its members and ensuring equitable education for all students in Maine. The program aims to alleviate financial burdens, promoting a supportive environment for educators and their communities.

The Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program supports early-career faculty in research and education, fostering academic leadership. It encourages proposals from diverse candidates, enhancing STEM equity. Awardees may be nominated for the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), recognizing innovative research and community service. These awards underscore the importance of science and technology for the nation's future, aiming to connect fundamental research with national goals.

The Digital Divide Grant Program, established under California's Public Utilities Code, aims to bridge the technology gap for low-income rural and urban schools. With an annual funding of $200,000, it supports projects that enhance digital literacy, provide take-home devices, and ensure broadband access. This initiative, transitioning from a pilot to a permanent program, focuses on delivering essential resources to underserved communities, fostering equitable access to technology and educational opportunities.

The Eagle Fund Grant, established in 1998 by the Berkshire community, aims to enhance educational experiences in the Southern Berkshire Regional School District through grants to students and educators. Grants typically range from $250 to $5,000 and are intended to support innovative projects beyond the core curriculum. The fund encourages collaboration and seeks projects that demonstrate exceptional educational value, fostering pride and enthusiasm within the district.

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is offering up to $3.9 million in funding under Program Opportunity Notice (PON) 6021. This program supports the development of innovative maritime vessels for efficient bulk hydrogen transport over short- to medium-distance routes. The initiative aims to overcome logistical barriers and enhance hydrogen infrastructure deployment within New York State, inviting proposals from experienced teams in the maritime and hydrogen sectors.

The Law & Science Program, funded by the National Science Foundation, invites interdisciplinary proposals that explore the intersection of law and scientific principles. It focuses on research examining human behavior, legal processes, and the application of technology in legal contexts. Topics include crime, environmental science, and forensic studies. Applications are due on January 15 and August 1 for the years 2021 through 2025, promoting innovative research that enhances understanding of legal systems.

The Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey offers Standard Grants aimed at reducing health disparities and enhancing the well-being of underserved populations in Newark and Greater MetroWest NJ. The Foundation supports innovative healthcare initiatives, capital improvements, and capacity-building projects. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations serving vulnerable communities. The Foundation prioritizes programs that infuse compassion into healthcare delivery and address emergent needs, while ineligible projects include individual support and general operating expenses.

The Take Part Grants, offered by the City of San José Office of Cultural Affairs, support community-based arts projects that engage residents in cultural activities. Aimed at non-professional and small professional organizations, these grants foster creativity, cultural participation, and public value in the arts. Eligible projects should enhance community engagement and reflect the diverse cultural heritage of San José. Funding ranges from $2,500 to $25,000, promoting accessible arts experiences for all.

The Cultural Affairs Operating Grants offered by the City of San José support professionally-managed arts organizations with year-round programs. Eligible applicants must have annual operating expenditures below $750,000 and a history of receiving grants. The two-year application covers FY 2026-2027 and FY 2027-2028. Organizations must demonstrate financial stability by avoiding significant deficits. This initiative aims to enrich cultural opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

The Rise for Education Grant Program offers funding for hydroponic classroom gardens that enhance STEM education and nutrition. This initiative encourages hands-on learning, integrating STEM and arts through practical gardening projects. Eligible applicants include schools, homeschooling families, and educational organizations. The program fosters community building and entrepreneurship via activities like Farmer's Markets, while boosting student engagement and developing essential skills. By implementing this program, educators can create an engaging and interactive learning environment year-round.

The WACF – New London Spicer Area Fund Grant supports community advancements through funding for capital projects and program expansion in the New London-Spicer area. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and government entities located in 12 northern townships of Kandiyohi County. Grants range from $1,000 to $5,000, with a focus on projects promoting diversity, inclusion, and equity. This initiative aims to foster local development and enhance community resources.

The Investing in Artists: Tools & Equipment Grant, offered by the Center for Cultural Innovation, provides funding between $1,000 and $5,000 for individual craft artists in the U.S. to purchase essential tools and equipment. This program aims to enhance the creative support system, enabling artists to produce object-based work and meet safety standards. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to their craft and have presented public artistic work within the last three years.

The KEYS Grants program, a youth philanthropy initiative by the Kosciusko County Community Foundation, empowers local high school students to enhance education in Kosciusko County. By providing funding for innovative educational projects, the program fosters creativity and collaboration among students. Eligible projects must serve the community's youth and promote hands-on learning experiences. This initiative not only enriches students' educational journeys but also aims to create lasting impacts for future generations.

The McCune Foundation provides funding to grassroots organizations in Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties that empower economically and politically marginalized groups. Their grants support community-led initiatives focused on creating systemic change and enhancing social capital. Eligible applicants must demonstrate inclusive leadership and engage affected populations in project planning. The Foundation prioritizes projects that mobilize communities to address root causes of social issues, fostering collaboration and action for social justice.

The Luling Foundation's Healthcare Scholarship Grant offers $2,000 to students pursuing healthcare-related degrees at Texas colleges. This award is intended for residents of Caldwell, Gonzales, or Guadalupe Counties who demonstrate a solid academic and conduct record. The scholarship is non-renewable and will support students during their freshman year, requiring enrollment in at least twelve semester hours. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, ensuring access to quality education in healthcare.

AGS Young Person's Activity Weekend Award

Five awards of up to £200 are being offered by the Merlin Trust to support attendance at the AGS Activity Weekend 2026. 

Successful Applicants

• Five awards of up to £200 each are available: you can apply for smaller amounts to cover travel only if you have secured funding from other sources.
• Award covers the cost of the Activity Weekend and/or as a contribution to travel to the Activity Weekend. 
• You must ensure you have travel insurance and it is advised that this is taken out on receipt of the grant awarded. 

The Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) in Texas aims to revitalize downtown areas by funding infrastructure improvements that promote economic activity. This program prioritizes projects that benefit low-to-moderate income individuals while addressing issues of slum and blight. With a funding limit of $1,000,000 and a minimum matching requirement of $20,000, it seeks to enhance public facilities and housing conditions, ultimately fostering viable communities and supporting workforce development.

The EGLS Howard Maxwell Award recognizes outstanding service to the Eastern Great Lakes Section of the American Physical Society (APS). Established in 1938, the section fosters collaboration among physicists and scientists from various fields through biannual symposia. Named after Howard Maxwell, this award honors dedicated contributions to the APS community, encouraging participation from students and educators in the greater Ohio region.

The Neighbor-to-Neighbor Grant provides crucial emergency funding to individuals and families facing economic hardships in the Berkshire Taconic region. This program offers small, strategic grants for overdue utilities, medical bills, short-term housing costs, and transportation issues. Funds are disbursed directly to vendors on behalf of those in need, ensuring immediate assistance without long-term obligations. Supported by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, the initiative exemplifies community solidarity, with local social service agencies facilitating the distribution of aid.

The EGLS Doc Brown Young Investigator Award, presented by the American Physical Society, recognizes exceptional young faculty in physics. Awardees receive a cash prize and commendation at the annual spring meeting. Eligible nominees include PhD lecturers and tenure-track faculty who are APS members in the EGLS region and within six years of their appointment. Nomination requires endorsement from a tenured faculty member and attendance at the meeting where the award is presented.

The National Science Foundation is piloting a no-deadline submission process for the Division of Chemistry's CLP, CSDM-A, and CTMC Programs. This initiative aims to enhance flexibility for principal investigators and promote interdisciplinary research. However, it may also present challenges and unintended consequences for PIs, reviewers, and institutions. Proposals can be submitted at any time, although certain exceptions apply, including specific deadlines for CAREER proposals and RUI/ROA solicitations.

About Virginia Energy

Virginia Energy is the state agency charged with advancing Virginia's energy, mining, and mineral policies and initiatives. Our mission is to lead the Commonwealth to a safe, reliable and responsible energy future by:

• Providing for safe and environmentally sound stewardship of Virginia's mineral and energy resources;
• Encouraging economic development through the sound stewardship of Virginia's energy, mineral, land and water resources; and
• Successfully pursuing federal funding and implement the Virginia Energy Plan to ensure the Commonwealth has abundant, reliable, affordable and increasingly clean energy.

Southwest Virginia Hydrogen Hub

The Virginia Department of Energy is launching a program to encourage hydrogen production in the Southwest Virginia (SWVA) region and its use across the Commonwealth. The primary objective of this initiative is to tackle energy issues critical to hydrogen energy while promoting economic development in SWVA.

The program invites proposals from entities operating in the Southwest region of the Commonwealth.

Program Overview

Virginia Energy invites proposals for establishing planning grants of $250,000 each to support the potential for the development of the hydrogen production industry in the Southwestern Virginia region. The effects of the downturn of the coal industry have severely impacted the low-income and disadvantaged communities of the coalfields. Southwest Virginia is uniquely positioned to take advantage of this opportunity. The repurposing of previously mined land and development of energy-ready industrial sites with access to abundant water, natural gas, and on-site rail are ideal for creating a hydrogen production hub in the region.

This program represents a significant step toward a cleaner and more sustainable future for the citizens of the commonwealth, particularly those that have been historically underserved. 

The SC Arts Commission offers Accessibility Grants to assist organizations in making arts programs and facilities accessible to individuals with disabilities. Funded projects may include adaptations such as Braille materials, sign language interpretation, and facility modifications. Eligible applicants include government units and charitable organizations registered in South Carolina. The program emphasizes cash matching and limits awards to one per fiscal year, prioritizing projects in designated Opportunity Initiative Counties.