Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Virginia provides essential funding for the development of clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water drainage in eligible rural areas. This initiative supports local governments, nonprofits, and tribes to enhance public health and environmental sustainability by ensuring access to reliable water infrastructure. Funds can cover construction, legal fees, and other necessary costs, helping communities thrive.

The W. D. Hagenstein Communicator Award honors an SAF member for their outstanding communication efforts in forestry. Recognizing innovative initiatives that enhance public understanding of forestry and natural resources, this award is presented at the SAF National Convention. It includes a $500 honorarium and up to $500 for travel expenses. Nominees must be SAF members and should not have received the Technology Transfer Award in the past five years. This award emphasizes the importance of effective communication in advancing forestry.

Department for Local Government

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Department for Local Government (DLG), under the Office of the Governor, provides financial help in the way of grant and loan assistance, as well as advising local governments in matters of budget, personnel and other issues relevant to those entities.​

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program

The Department for Local Government (DLG) administers approximately $26 million annually from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.

The CDBG program provides assistance to communities for use in revitalizing neighborhoods, expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities, providing infrastructure and/or improving community facilities and services. With the participation of their citizens, communities can devote these funds to a wide range of activities that best serve their own particular development priorities.

All project activities must meet at least one of three national objectives:

• Benefit to low and moderate income persons
• Prevention or elimination of slums or blight
• Meeting particularly urgent community development needs​

Funds are designated for various program areas including Community Projects, Community Emergency Relief Fund, Economic Development, Housing, Public Facilities, and Public Services (Recovery Kentucky).​

Public Facilities

​​​​​The Public Facilities Branch provides funding to primarily develop Kentucky's water and wastewater systems. As part of the Commonwealth's allocations from the CDBG program, these projects have been allocated an estimate of $8,834,662 with designated maximum amounts for treatment plants and lines/pumps and tanks of CDBG funding per community. Self-help grants (maximum amount of $300,000 per project) are funded under this branch.

The Inclement Weather Surge Capacity Grant is designed to support Homeless Service Providers in offering temporary emergency shelter beds during severe weather conditions. With an annual budget of $250,000, the City of Spokane seeks effective strategies to ensure safety by activating at least 10 beds in response to extreme temperatures or poor air quality. This funding aims to enhance existing programs and infrastructure rather than establish new shelters, promoting community collaboration to meet urgent sheltering needs.

The Transition Readiness Grants program, established under 2017 Act 59 with $1.5 million in funding, aims to help Wisconsin students with disabilities transition to competitive work and post-secondary education. Since its inception in FY 2019, it has received over 130 applications totaling more than $9 million. Eligible school districts can apply for FY 24 funding to support evidence-based transition practices, including transportation options, competitive employment training programs, and post-secondary supports.

The BJA FY 2026 Smart Reentry Demonstration Program aims to support state, local, and tribal governments in implementing effective reentry strategies for individuals transitioning from correctional facilities back to their communities. This program encourages comprehensive interventions designed to reduce recidivism by addressing various reentry needs, as outlined in the Second Chance Act. Applications are due by October 1, 2026, at 8:59 PM ET, and are submitted through JustGrants.

The Charles W. Painter Grant in Herpetology supports research and education focused on New Mexico's herpetofauna. Established by the Chiricahua Desert Museum in memory of Charles W. Painter, this grant encourages proposals in natural history, conservation biology, and education. Open to all applicants, it particularly welcomes students and those affiliated with recognized organizations. Grants up to $1,000 are available, with no limit on the number of consecutive renewals, promoting ongoing scientific inquiry and conservation efforts.

The Kalamazoo Valley Chapter's George L. Disborough TU Research Grant Fund, established in 1990, aims to support graduate-level research on trout habitat and conservation projects aligned with Trout Unlimited's mission. This fund seeks innovative studies on coldwater salmonids and their environments, with a preference for projects conducted in Michigan. It is open to U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled in accredited institutions, promoting efforts that enhance the quality of aquatic resources.

The Mibor Realtor Foundation Grant, offered by the Mibor Foundation Inc, aims to combat homelessness in central Indiana by funding 501(c)(3) non-profits. Since its inception, the Foundation has allocated over $3 million to support organizations that provide permanent housing solutions. Eligible entities can request funding up to $20,000, with typical awards ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. The Foundation prioritizes proven housing-based solutions linked with comprehensive support services.

The SAF National Awards Program includes the Sir William Schlich Memorial Award, which honors exceptional contributions to forestry, particularly in policy and international activities. Presented biennially at the SAF National Convention, it features a $500 honorarium, complimentary registration, and up to $500 for travel expenses. This award commemorates Sir William Schlich's significant role in advancing forestry education and practices in the 19th century, promoting sustainable management of forest resources.

The Movement Focus Area Grant by the Quimby Family Foundation supports Maine-based nonprofits dedicated to advancing Human Wholeness through movement and nourishment. Grants range from $2,500 to $25,000, with a focus on fostering connections between people and nature. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate community involvement. This grant aims to create equitable access to outdoor experiences and promote health and well-being through active engagement with nature.

The Indianapolis Emergency Solutions Grant provides vital assistance to the community by funding emergency shelter, rapid re-housing, street outreach, and homelessness prevention services. Managed by the City of Indianapolis' Department of Metropolitan Development, this grant is available annually to non-profit organizations, with applications released in the fall and awards announced in the winter. The program is designed to address homelessness through targeted support based on population demographics, ensuring that essential services reach those in need.

The See, Test & Treat Grant offers funding for a pathologist-led cancer screening program aimed at underserved communities. With a focus on health education, the program provides vital cervical and breast cancer screenings, ensuring same-day results and follow-up care. Eligible institutions can apply for funding up to $20,000 for single-year projects or up to $50,000 over three years. This initiative addresses health disparities, empowers communities, and enhances the visibility of pathology in healthcare.

The Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Grant, established under the Clean Water Act, aims to reduce nonpoint source pollution through funding innovative best management practices (BMPs), educational programs, and the development and implementation of Watershed Based Plans. The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet administers this grant, providing up to 60% of project costs, with a required 40% nonfederal match, fostering sustainable environmental practices across the state.

The Watchable Wildlife Grants (NE) program, funded by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, aims to enhance wildlife-viewing experiences throughout Nebraska. Offering up to $6,000 per project, this initiative requires a 25% match and supports various wildlife observation projects, including infrastructure, events, and interpretive signage. Ideal for nonprofits and governmental entities, these grants foster public appreciation and stewardship for local natural resources while ensuring positive impacts on wildlife and their habitats.

The Memorial Bear Fund Grant honors the legacy of biologists and a pilot who lost their lives during wildlife research in Wyoming. Administered by the Wyoming Community Foundation, it supports bear research, habitat protection, and education for all bear species. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving Wyoming, while ineligible applications include those with outstanding reports or requests for lobbying. The grant prioritizes impactful, well-prepared projects that ensure lasting benefits.

The Bono Brothers Memorial Trust Grant supports needy children in Marin County, California, through Catholic charitable organizations. Established in 1962 by Joseph Bono, the Trust awards an average of four grants annually to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations. The funds are intended for the care, support, maintenance, and education of these children, ensuring they receive necessary assistance and resources for a better future.

Biogen General Grants

Funding to support a project or program that does not fit any of the other defined grant categories.

The Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative supports outdoor enthusiasts and promotes responsible use of off-highway vehicles (OHVs). Its mission includes educating the public on land use and wildlife conservation while protecting access to public lands. Applications are accepted quarterly from nonprofit organizations and community groups focused on land stewardship and access improvements, ensuring a safe and sustainable outdoor experience for all.

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) offers Equity Workforce Training Implementation Grants to enhance access to training for individuals from underrepresented communities. Grants of up to $1,200,000 are available over two to three years for projects that create career pathways in climate-critical occupations. Applicants can propose initiatives focused on employment training, pipeline preparedness for adult learners, or capacity planning for effective training programs, aiming to address existing barriers and foster employer engagement.

Who We Are

Advancing Wisconsin to be the healthiest state in the nation

AHW provides funding and resources to researchers, organizations, and communities devoted to improving the health of the people of Wisconsin.

Call for Applications:

Community-Led Seed Grants

AHW’s Call for Applications: Community-Led Seed Grants supports community-driven efforts to design new strategies, test innovative ideas, and foster greater collaboration to build a foundation for future endeavors to address Wisconsin’s leading health challenges and produce deeper impact on health and health equity in Wisconsin’s communities. Eligible community-based organizations may request up to $50,000 for projects completed within a 12-month period, beginning Jan. 1, 2027.

To foster a collaborative approach to award selection, applicants will participate in a peer review process to assess proposals submitted to this funding opportunity by their fellow applicants. For the submitted application to be considered for funding, completion of all assigned reviews is required.

Following funding determinations, successful community-led applicant teams will be matched with an eligible MCW faculty member from a pre-formed pool developed through the Call for MCW Academic Partner for Community-Led Grants to serve as an additional resource to the funded community-led projects. 

The Aquatic Invasive Plants Management Grants Program aims to mitigate the threats posed by non-native aquatic plants to Washington's waterways. Established in 1991, it provides financial and technical assistance to control invasive species, with approximately $350,000 available annually. Grant recipients can receive up to $50,000 for early infestation projects. Notably, matching funds are no longer required, making it more accessible for communities to manage aquatic ecosystems effectively.

The Kaiser Permanente Center for Gun Violence Research and Education Grant Program aims to transform the landscape of gun violence research and education by funding initiatives that address community firearm violence and suicide. This program focuses on partnering with affected communities, integrating healthcare approaches, and providing substantial funding to enhance research capacity and intervention effectiveness. With funding available in two categories, the initiative seeks to promote evidence-based solutions that foster community healing and well-being.

Project Bread's School Breakfast Grant Program aims to ensure that all students in Massachusetts have access to nutritious meals through innovative breakfast solutions. By starting or expanding programs like Breakfast After the Bell, schools can significantly increase breakfast participation. The program provides essential support and resources to help schools assess their needs and implement effective strategies for enhancing breakfast accessibility, ultimately fostering a healthier school community.

The Craig S. Harrison Conservation Fund Grants support seabird conservation efforts in developing countries bordering the Pacific Ocean. Established by the Pacific Seabird Group, this fund addresses funding gaps for essential conservation projects. Eligible applicants include citizens from these nations, focusing on activities that enhance seabird restoration and expertise. Preference is given to local initiatives, ensuring sustainable conservation practices and community involvement. The fund aims to empower local conservationists and address critical seabird conservation needs.

The Edna E. Harrell Community Children’s Fund Grant, managed by The Oregon Community Foundation, supports programs enhancing the lives of underserved youth in Baker County and North Powder. Established in 2014, it provides funding for various enrichment activities, including summer camps, after-school programs, and arts initiatives. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, churches, and schools, ensuring that children from financially constrained families have access to vital development opportunities.