Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

MN Public Works - Broadband Infrastructure Grant

Broadband Infrastructure grants assist projects that help households and businesses reach the State of Minnesota broadband speed goal. 

Funding Availability

• Funded at $1,000,000 for Fiscal Year 2026 from the Taconite Environmental Protection Fund.
• The number of grants awarded is variable and dependent upon the amounts awarded to successful
• applicants.
• 1:1 match per project required.
• In-kind materials and/or labor are not eligible towards the project match.
• Consideration will be given to projects that leverage greater amounts of funding for a project from other sources.
• Architectural and engineering fees in excess of 10% of the total project costs are ineligible for reimbursement.
• Applications should be submitted within nine months of the project construction start date.

The MSAC Creativity Grants for General Operating Support are available on a rolling basis from July 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025. These grants aim to enhance the sustainability of artists and organizations in Maryland, supporting their operational needs and arts programming for an entire fiscal year. This initiative promotes equitable access to artistic resources and fosters community engagement while transitioning to a new General Operating Support option starting FY 2027.

The Fall Grant Opportunities from the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation focus on enhancing accessibility through the Access to Recreation Endowment. Established in 2007, this initiative supports recreational projects that exceed basic ADA requirements, ensuring universal design for all. Eligible organizations include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities serving Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau counties. This funding aims to foster community well-being by promoting inclusive recreational access.

The Abilene Regional Medical Center Auxiliary Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, aims to support healthcare professionals in enhancing their skills and obtaining relevant degrees. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to addressing educational needs within the community. Preference is given to Abilene Regional Employees who possess a certification in the healthcare field. The fund exemplifies a collaborative effort to foster a well-trained healthcare workforce in Abilene.

The Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey offers special one-time grants aimed at improving healthcare for underserved populations in Greater Newark and the Jewish Community of MetroWest NJ. The foundation prioritizes innovative projects that demonstrate measurable impacts, partnerships, and sustainability. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations focused on health disparities. Proposals are evaluated based on mission alignment, systems impact, and the potential for lasting change in community health outcomes.

The Engagement Award: Capacity Building aims to enhance the skills of patients and stakeholders in patient-centered outcomes research (PCOR) and comparative effectiveness research (CER). With funding of up to $300,000 for projects lasting up to two years, this initiative seeks to foster meaningful participation from patients, families, and caregivers. The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) anticipates distributing up to $25 million for these efforts in fiscal year 2026, emphasizing community engagement in research.

The Local Accountability Systems is a district-wide initiative through which districts and open-enrollment charter schools develop a plan to evaluate the performance of their campuses locally. Local Accountability Systems seek to engage the community and district in establishing locally relevant accountability measures, provide parents, families, and communities with detail information about local school performance and progress over time, and continuously improve student performance and preparedness for post-secondary success. 

Dwight Nicholson Medal for Outreach

This award recognizes the humanitarian aspect of physics and physicists created through public lectures and public media, teaching, research, or science related activities. Recognition consists of a stipend of $3,000, Nicholson medal, and a certificate which includes the citation for which the recipient has been recognized. Up to $1,500 will be available for the recipient's travel expenses to the meeting at which the Medal is presented. It will be presented annually.

Haymarket People's Fund offers Sustaining Grants to grassroots organizations focused on community organizing and social change. Grants up to $20,000 are available for both emerging and established groups that align with Haymarket's anti-racist mission. The fund prioritizes work that addresses root causes of injustice, fosters leadership, and builds accountability within the community. Organizations not primarily providing direct services or advocacy are encouraged to apply, ensuring a focus on transformative social change.

The State Energy Program Grant in North Dakota supports energy efficiency and conservation initiatives through funding and technical assistance from the U.S. Department of Energy. Applications are accepted year-round, with a priority for schools and non-profits. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, aimed at projects with a payback period of 10 years or less. Eligible applicants must be registered at SAM.gov and submit detailed proposals, including energy savings analyses for specific installations.

The Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust Grant supports education and research in ornamental horticulture, funding projects that enhance public gardens, promote ornamental plants, and support related educational initiatives. Grants typically range up to $20,000, with a maximum of $25,000, focusing on project support rather than general operating expenses. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) public charities and similar entities worldwide, while the Trust does not fund individuals or capital campaigns.

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) offers objective information and analysis, innovative programs, technical expertise, and support to help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, save money, use renewable energy, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. A public benefit corporation, NYSERDA has been advancing energy solutions and working to protect the environment since 1975.

Green Jobs - Green New York Energy Studies

Through Green Jobs - Green New York (GJGNY), energy studies are available for small commercial and not-for-profits to identify and analyze opportunities to make buildings more efficient, which lowers associated energy costs. Small commercial with 100 or fewer full-time equivalent employees or not-for-profit organizations of any size are eligible for this offering, in facilities 50,000 sq ft or less.

Studies include:

• A comprehensive walk through of the facility
• Site staff interviews
• Utility bill analysis
• Fuel-neutral, unbiased evaluation of potential low-cost/no-cost and capital improvement energy efficiency upgrades
• Energy study report that outlines potential energy and cost savings opportunities for your facility.

The Adirondack Foreign Language Enhancement Fund Grant aims to inspire and elevate the status of French and Spanish teachers in K-12 schools within the Adirondack Park, New York. It provides competitive grants to enhance foreign language instruction through innovative projects, cultural immersion trips, and collaboration among educators. Priority is given to initiatives that exceed school budgets and focus on advancing teaching technologies and career development for language teachers.

The Energy Conservation Grant in North Dakota supports energy efficiency improvements in public buildings owned by political subdivisions. Eligible projects include insulation installation, efficient lighting, HVAC upgrades, and weather sealing, with awards up to $100,000 requiring a 50% cash match. Projects must achieve a payback period of 10 years or less, and all energy savings calculations will be reviewed by Community Services. Funding is provided on a reimbursement basis.

The NIH Director's Early Independence Award encourages exceptional early-career researchers to embark on independent research immediately after completing their doctoral degree or clinical training. This initiative accelerates the transition to independent research careers while supporting innovative projects across all areas of biomedical sciences. It is part of the NIH Common Fund's High-Risk, High-Reward Research program, aiming to foster groundbreaking discoveries.

The NIH Director's Pioneer Award Program aims to support exceptionally creative scientists who propose innovative research projects with the potential to significantly impact biomedical sciences. The program encourages bold ideas that diverge from existing research trajectories and welcomes applications across all areas of the biomedical field. As part of the High-Risk, High-Reward Research Program, this award fosters pioneering efforts that may lead to transformative advancements in health and medicine.

The OTS Research Fellowship Program offers graduate research fellowships for studies primarily conducted at its Costa Rica field stations. Open to graduate students from OTS member institutions, the program facilitates thesis-related research in tropical biology. This initiative honors the contributions of notable figures in the field and aims to support the next generation of researchers. Applications are accepted year-round, with a two-month advance submission requirement before project commencement.

The Lowcountry Artistic Vitality Grant, offered by the Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, aims to support a diverse range of arts organizations within the Lowcountry. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) public charities that demonstrate artistic vitality and have completed at least one full fiscal year of operations. Grants range from $5,000 to $25,000, emphasizing unrestricted general operations funding that allows organizations to address their most pressing needs.

The Chicago Artistic Vitality Grant supports over 175 small, professional arts organizations across various disciplines. It provides essential unrestricted operational funding that allows these organizations to thrive while encouraging artistic innovation. Grantees must be 501(c)(3) public charities or have fiscal sponsors, with expenses under $1 million per year. The grant aims to foster a vibrant arts ecosystem in Chicago, ensuring diverse artistic expressions in every neighborhood, and promotes the sustainability of emerging talent.

The Creative Sector Flex Fund provides essential support for dynamic arts organizations in Pennsylvania, specifically those with annual revenues between $10,000 and $200,000. With grants of up to $5,000, this program allows flexibility in funding usage, addressing diverse needs including administrative and programmatic expenses. Administered by the Centre Foundation, it serves Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, and Huntingdon Counties, requiring annual applications to ensure continued support for the arts community.

The CFF School Garden Grants, funded by the California Fertilizer Foundation, aim to enhance agricultural education for California's youth through hands-on gardening experiences. This initiative supports public and private schools in implementing or continuing garden programs, fostering sustainability and environmental awareness. Applicants are encouraged to describe their projects, including classroom implementation strategies and educational goals related to plant nutrition. This program not only beautifies school campuses but also enriches students' understanding of agriculture.

Village of the Living Dead Kenneth Fulton Memorial Scholarship

Kenneth Fulton was a member of the St. Charles Haunted House since its very beginning in 1985 until his passing at the haunted house in 1998. He volunteered and also brought along with him his kids and brothers to volunteer as well. Ken was a quiet gentle man that loved what the haunted house stood for and who it was all about – the kids. His favorite character to play was Michael Myers. He was tall and quiet and was able to scare the patrons with his eerie silence. He loved the members of the haunted house as his own family. He is greatly missed and would be so proud to be a part of this scholarship.  

Evaluation Criteria

• Community service (50)
• Financial need (25)
• Letters of recommendation from two volunteer organizations (13)
• Extracurricular/school activities (12)

The Emerging Justice Fund Grant, offered by Social Justice Fund Northwest, aims to support grassroots organizing in communities affected by systemic injustices. With a funding cycle starting in February, the grant prioritizes organizations led by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. Eligible groups can apply for a one-year grant of $10,000, with a final deadline of September 12th. This initiative emphasizes unrestricted funding to empower marginalized communities and foster long-term social justice solutions.

The COAD Appalachian Development Fund Grants, offered by the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, aim to enhance the quality of life in Appalachian Ohio through innovative programs. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to nonprofit and public organizations serving the region. Priority is given to projects led by local organizations, promoting community development and addressing specific needs. Past awards include housing coordinators and infrastructure improvements, reflecting a commitment to sustainable growth and support for COAD member agencies.

The Davis Family Foundation Implementation Grants support innovative projects that enhance teaching and learning at accredited colleges in New England. Established in 1985, the foundation has awarded over $140 million to improve educational outcomes and reduce costs. Applicants are encouraged to consult with program staff prior to submission. Funded projects typically focus on curriculum improvement, faculty development, and collaborative cost-reduction efforts, all aimed at enriching the undergraduate experience.

The Solar Canopy and Dual Use Technology Grant Program offers funding for solar system installations that maximize land and water use efficiency. Eligible projects include solar canopies over parking areas and floating solar systems on water bodies, with specific criteria for evaluation. The Maryland Energy Administration supports projects up to $500 per kW-dc, encouraging innovative designs and accessibility for public use, particularly benefiting low-to-moderate income communities.

Energy Transition Act (ETA) 

Developed over the course of a year with collaboration by community organizations, unions, energy groups and advocates, the Energy Transition Act (ETA) establishes New Mexico as a national leader in clean energy. The ETA sets a statewide renewable energy standard of 50 percent by 2030 for New Mexico investor-owned utilities and rural electric cooperatives and a goal of 80 percent by 2040, in addition to setting zero-carbon resources standards for investor-owned utilities by 2045 and rural electric cooperatives by 2050. The law transitions New Mexico away from coal and toward clean energy, ensuring greater renewable energy production and reducing costs for consumers, and provides tens of millions of dollars of economic and workforce support for communities impacted by coal plant closures, as well as the development of renewable replacement power in San Juan County.

The purpose of this Request for Proposals (RFP) is to solicit sealed proposals to establish a contract, through a competitive bid process, for the procurement of professional services and/or facilities in communities affected by the abandonment or closure of a generating facility and which promotes the welfare of Indian people within those communities by:

• Utilizing a transformative approach to address systemic inequities;
• Providing education and training to community members on new technology and methods that create a modern experience and maintain the value and traditions of Indian people;
• Building capacity to revitalize a diverse economy; and
• Train and employ a localized workforce through educational enrichment that revitalizes cultural and traditional values.