Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

The Wild Animal Initiative offers Seed Grants to support innovative projects in wild animal welfare research. These grants aim to facilitate early-career researchers and established scientists in testing new techniques and approaches that incorporate welfare assessments into ecological studies. The program emphasizes cost-effective solutions, focusing on improving the welfare of wild animals. Successful proposals will explore diverse themes such as wild fish welfare and near-term welfare interventions to address urgent animal welfare challenges.

The Cardiovascular & Pulmonary Research Grants aim to support impactful research that enhances cardiovascular and pulmonary health through physical therapy interventions. This grant emphasizes studies that assess patient characteristics, improve health outcomes, and address disparities. Research proposals must align with the 2023 APTA Research Agenda and prioritize clinical relevance, employing various investigative designs. The goal is to foster innovative approaches that significantly reduce cardiovascular disease risks and improve patient care in the U.S.

The Gender-Specific Services Grant, offered by the New Jersey Department of Law & Public Safety, aims to support programs that address the unique challenges faced by girls and gender-expansive youth. This initiative fosters safe, inclusive environments where participants can heal from trauma and build confidence. By promoting trust, creativity, and leadership, the grant seeks to empower young people to connect with role models, express their identities, and envision a brighter future.

Ending Epidemics Education, Training and Technical Assistance Services

The intent of this Request for Applications is to support a comprehensive statewide training initiative to strengthen the capacity of local public health agencies, hospitals, community-based organizations, healthcare providers, peer workers, educators, and other partners to improve outcomes for the AIDS Institute’s strategic health priorities. The goal is to reduce health inequities by implementing training and education interventions, such as in-person or virtual trainings, conferences, seminars, digital learning tools, and capacity building initiatives that will prepare providers with the knowledge and skills to mount an effective response to the syndemics of HIV, viral hepatitis, sexually transmitted infections, and substance use disorders. Building upon a foundation of health equity, other priorities for training include the health concerns of the LGBTQAI+ population, the concerns of persons living with HIV across the lifespan (noting the diversity in needs depending on age-related concerns), as well as training around legal and policy initiatives for these syndemic health issues and populations at risk. 

Ending Epidemics in New York State

In June 2014, NYS announced a three-point plan to end the AIDS epidemic in NYS.12 This plan provided a roadmap to significantly reduce HIV infections to a historic low by the end of 2020, with the goal of achieving the first ever decrease in HIV prevalence. The plan also aimed to improve the  health of all HIV positive New Yorkers and was the first jurisdictional effort of its kind in the U.S.

The three points highlighted in the plan are:

• Identify persons with HIV who remain undiagnosed and get them linked to care;
• Link and retain persons diagnosed with HIV in health care to maximize viral suppression;
• Increase access to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for persons who are HIV negative.

New York State has been laying groundwork for ending the AIDS epidemic since the disease emerged in the early 1980s. New York State’s response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic has involved the development of comprehensive service delivery systems that evolved over time in sync with the evolution of AIDS from a terminal illness to a manageable chronic disease. This strategy enabled the state to implement new technologies as they were introduced, including new treatments, new diagnostic tests and, more recently, PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis). Due to the historic and robust State response over the last 36 years, New York State has bent the curve on the HIV epidemic, reversing the decades-long increase in the number of people in New York State that are diagnosed with HIV. 

Available Funding

Up to $3,094,000 annually in New York State and HRI funding is available to support programs funded through this RFA (total of $15,470,000 in New York State and HRI funding for five (5) years). 

The Farm and Ranch Solid Waste Clean Up and Abatement Grant Program, administered by CalRecycle, offers up to $1 million annually for cleaning illegal solid waste sites on agricultural properties. Eligible sites must be zoned for agriculture and demonstrate a need for cleanup to address public health or environmental threats. Applications must include an EPPP Policy by the specified deadlines to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

The Minnesota Job Skills Partnership Pathways Program aims to provide training and career opportunities for individuals with incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. Grants of up to $400,000 support projects that include partnerships between businesses and accredited Minnesota educational institutions. Funds can cover training-related costs but not wage subsidies or tuition reimbursement. This program is essential for fostering workforce development and enhancing the skills of low-income individuals, ultimately aiding their transition into sustainable employment.

Prevent Sleep-Related Infant Deaths in Minnesota’s American Indian and Black/African American Populations RFP

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) seeks proposals to fund one organization with the capacity and expertise to create, manage, and support Community Action Teams (CATs) to implement culturally appropriate, data driven solutions to reduce sudden unexpected infant deaths (SUIDs) in Minnesota’s American Indian and Black/African American populations. The organization selected for this grant must be uniquely positioned to support the CATs in implementing community prioritized solutions to improve infant sleep safety that align with the American Academy of Pediatrics safe sleep recommendations. The awarded applicant must also be immediately ready, upon being notified about the award, to begin forming the CATs and executing other duties as contractually agreed upon. This RFP aligns with both state and national goals to reduce infant mortality by addressing SUIDs in communities that are disproportionately affected by sleep-related tragedies during infancy.

The source of funding for this grant opportunity is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Department of Health and Human Services, through NU58DP007698. Funding is currently available for $134,000 from July 15, 2026, to Sept. 29, 2027. However, the grant may be extended for an additional year contingent on the availability of funds and the awarded applicant’s performance during the initial project period. Funding will be allocated through a competitive process.

Estimated Amount to Grant

• $134,000

Estimated Number of Awards

• 1

Texas Health and Human Services

Texas Health and Human Services, also known as the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), helps more than 7.5 million Texans every month. The agency supports the needs of mothers, children and families through programs such as Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, women’s health and behavioral health services.

HHSC provides long-term services and supports for seniors and people with disabilities, and operates state supported living centers for residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities and state psychiatric hospitals. HHSC also regulates health care providers, professions and facilities to protect the health and safety of Texans.

Fiscal Year 2026 Innovation Grant Program

Executive Summary

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), the System Agency, is accepting applications for the Fiscal Year 2026 Innovation Grant Program.

The purpose of this program is to support Rural Hospitals, Rural Hospital Authorities (RHA), and Rural Hospitals Districts (RHD) to provide access to health care, improve quality of care, strengthen financial stability, and ensure initiatives are sustainable.

The Community Planning and Capacity Building Grants, offered by the California Air Resources Board, provide up to $500,000 to assist communities in planning for equitable transportation solutions. These grants focus on early-stage planning, outreach, and workforce development, particularly benefiting Tribal governments, rural communities, schools, and first-time applicants. This funding aims to promote clean transportation initiatives and enhance local readiness.

Our Mission

Empower donors to fulfill their passions and dreams by establishing charitable vehicles designed to create a positive and enduring impact on Jewish Buffalo, Western New York and the World.

Geoff Richter Performing Arts Award

The Geoff Richter Performing Arts Award Committee announces the availability of an Award up to $2,000! The GRPAA was founded in memory of Geoff Richter, Western New York Musician and Educator of the Arts.

About Geoff Richter

A native of Eden, New York, Geoff received his Bachelor of Music degree with a Performer’s Certificate in trumpet and a Master’s with a Performers Fellowship, from the Eastman School of Music.

Geoff played trumpet professionally with the Rochester, San Antonio, and Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestras and Niagara Falls, Binghamton, Chautauqua, Orchard Park, Clarence, Cheektowaga, and Amherst Symphony Orchestras. He co-founded the Buffalo Brass Quintet, the Buffalo Niagara Concert Band, and The Frankfurters, an internationally known Bavarian show band. He also acted as the summer/pops conductor of the Erie County Wind Ensemble and the Amherst Symphony Orchestra.

After retiring from a long career at Williamsville North High School, Geoff started working part time as director of the orchestra for musicals at St. Joseph Collegiate Institute. He also worked with the Mount Saint Mary Academy band and recruited and directed the orchestra for the annual school musical.

Our Mission

The Horner Foundation is a family-based charity dedicated to partnering with community-based organizations that provide youth, aged 10-19, hands-on experiential learning opportunities through Out of School Time (OST) to foster positive youth development.

We work in 4 geographic regions, determined by where family members live, their specific interests and needs identified by the community.

Our Vision

• All youth will be empowered to realize their full potential and become active participants in their communities.
• All youth will have ample opportunities both inside and outside the classroom to experience a diversity of quality learning styles and frameworks.
• All youth will be healthy, strong, and well-prepared for the 21st Century.

Organizational Funding Statement

The Horner Foundation strives to be responsive and meet organizations where they are. This means that we may provide multi-year funding and ongoing support to nonprofits who may be launching a pilot project or going through a transition. However, we also believe in the value of diverse funding sources. The Horner Foundation typically funds organizations for 1-2 funding cycles (2-4 years). In rare cases, we may fund an organizations for 3 funding cycles (6 years).

Grants

The Foundation awards two-year grants dedicated to project funding. We fund in four geographic regions, each with its own funding priorities.

Alameda & Contra Costa Counties, Bay Area, California: Youth Food Justice, Youth Sports, & Girls Empowerment    

For the past several years, the Horner Foundation has worked at the intersection of youth development and food justice, with the goal of empowering youth to learn about and take action to localize their food system and increase food security for all. Our 2026–2027 funding will continue this mission, with an increased emphasis on youth-led and youth-organized projects. Youth outcomes are maximized when youth can envision, organize, and execute projects alongside supportive adult mentors and allies. The Foundation aims to provide more funding directly to youth in the Bay Area, so that they can make a measurable difference in their communities.

We are also continuing our newer funding focus to empower young women and girls to access experiential learning and leadership opportunities in the Bay Area.

In addition, the Foundation is expanding its funding priorities to include Youth Sports programs that promote leadership, teamwork, confidence, and access to high-quality athletic opportunities for under-resourced youth. We are particularly interested in organizations that use sports as a vehicle for positive youth development, academic support, and life skills building.

Funding Focuses

Youth Food Justice

• Organizations working at the intersection of youth development and food justice

• Grants that work to elevate youth voice will be prioritized. This may include mini-grant programs for youth, where one organization or collective of organizations build on existing infrastructure or create a new program for youth to apply for / receive mini-grants. It is understood that many youth development programs provide adult mentoring and structured opportunities for youth to participate meaningfully.

Youth Sports

• Organizations that provide equitable access to organized sports for under-resourced youth, using athletics as a platform for leadership development, mentorship, academic encouragement, and social-emotional growth.

• Priority may be given to programs that: Reduce financial barriers to participation; Provide structured mentorship and coaching; Integrate academic or life-skills components; Demonstrate measurable impact on youth outcomes

Girls Empowerment

• Organizations that expand access to experiential learning, leadership development, and confidence-building opportunities for girls and young women in the Bay Area.

Purpose

The California Air Resources Board is soliciting a Grantee for the implementation of the Clean Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project with any appropriated and allocated funds from Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 with an option to renew the Grant Agreement for the following two years (FY 2027-28 and FY 2028-29).

Description

The California Air Resources Board (CARB or the Board) is soliciting a Grantee for the implementation of the Clean Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP) with any appropriated and allocated funds from Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 with an option to renew the Grant Agreement for the following two years (FY 2027-28 and FY 2028-29).

HVIP accelerates market transformation by incentivizing the purchase of zero-emission heavy-duty trucks and buses for California fleets, providing vouchers for purchasers and lessees for eligible vehicles on a first-come first-serve basis. HVIP provides increased incentives for fleets purchasing zero-emission vehicles located in disadvantaged communities with a goal of at least 50 percent of HVIP funding supporting vehicles domiciled in disadvantaged communities. In addition, HVIP incorporates a set-aside for transit vehicles.HVIP stimulates the development, deployment, and commercialization of advanced vehicle technology. These technologies are critical to help California meet its near- and long-term air-quality and climate-change goals. Additionally, the project benefits the citizens of California by providing immediate air-pollution and greenhouse-gas emission reductions. Appropriated and allocated HVIP funds will be administered and implemented through a partnership between CARB and a Grantee selected via this competitive solicitation. 

The Sally Hughes Church Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in the Salinas Valley focused on youth development. Grants are awarded annually, typically in September, to organizations that demonstrate a commitment to improving youth well-being, cultural enrichment, and family support. While unsolicited applications are not accepted, interested organizations are encouraged to keep the Foundation informed about their initiatives through regular communications.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Mississippi

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Grant Opportunities

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we support programs that drive lasting change. Through grants, we partner with local organizations to meet the diverse needs of our community and fulfill our donors’ goals to improve life in Muskegon County, both now and in the future.

Muskegon County Housing Initiative

Strategic Leadership Grants: A Call for Housing Proposals

The Community Foundation’s vision to build a vibrant community with great opportunities for all serves as the basis for our values: hope and opportunity, particularly for youth; collaborative community goals and decision-making; and an inclusive community.

In the fall of 2023, the Community Foundation, collaborating with local municipalities and economic development agencies, commissioned a study on Muskegon County’s current needs and opportunities. The study revealed that Muskegon County needs 9,000 housing and rental units across the housing continuum over the next five years to meet demand and stabilize the local housing market. You can read the full results of the study HERE.

To help increase the availability, accessibility, and affordability of housing, the Community Foundation has committed at least $1M in grants and up to $5M in loans to support local housing efforts.

Housing Grants

Nonprofit organizations, including schools, governmental units, and faith-based organizations, must initiate grant requests. Strategies may include for-profit partners and collaborators.

Priority for grants will be given to suggested projects such as:

• First-time homeowners’ assistance, including home-ownership education
• Developer incentives with a focus on workforce housing (180% AMI)
• Explore options to preserve affordability, such as the creation of a Land Trust
• Work with current landlords to facilitate a transition to homeownership for tenants in good standing
• Work with municipalities to incentivize implementation of zoning best practices and tools to incentivize development
• Invest in supporting seniors in a transition to their next phase of housing 

In addition, the Community Foundation is working collaboratively with leadership from the City of Muskegon Heights as a geographic focus area for investment in publicly owned lands. Grants and loans will be made to projects that meet at least one of the following:

• Purchase and remediate public land and/or blighted properties to prep for development
• Create development packages around publicly owned land in Muskegon Heights to incentivize development
• Support home improvements for neighboring properties
• Support for community listening sessions to create a shared vision around public land development for housing

At least $1,000,000 will be granted over the next few years. We envision that multiple grants will be supported in the $20,000-$50,000 range. Multiyear requests, with phased-out funding over three years, will be considered.

The Mary Hillman Jennings Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in southwestern Pennsylvania, focusing on community development, health, education, and the arts. Established in 1968, the Foundation aims to improve the quality of life for underserved populations, including at-risk youth and homeless individuals. It prioritizes direct services that promote economic and social welfare, while accepting applications from tax-exempt organizations. The grant cycle may take two to three months, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to thorough review.

Rural Community Health Hubs

Overview

The State of Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Public Health, seeks professional services to address identified disparities by establishing a coordinated network of mobile health units (Component A) and brick and mortar health hubs (Component B), integrated with community-based healthcare systems, that deliver comprehensive, evidence-based healthcare services directly to underserved rural communities.

The Women's Fund of Central Ohio supports organizations that empower women and girls through various initiatives, including civic engagement, health education, leadership development, and economic security. By prioritizing trust-based and participatory grantmaking, the Fund aims to dismantle gender norms and promote equitable solutions. Grants are awarded annually to innovative programs focused on these areas, ensuring that the voices of those most affected by systemic inequity are elevated and heard.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Missouri

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

The Aquatic Invasive Species Grant Program, managed by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, provides funding to combat aquatic invasive species in Montana. With an annual budget of $278,580, the program supports projects aimed at prevention, control, and education. Eligible projects can receive up to $50,000 and may include monitoring, outreach, and applied research. Local proposals addressing state-wide priorities will receive preference during the evaluation process.

The New Car Dealers of WNY Charitable Foundation Grant aims to enhance the well-being of children and families in Western New York. By providing financial support to not-for-profit organizations, the foundation seeks to increase their visibility and impact. Registered not-for-profit organizations can apply for restricted grants, with the board of trustees meeting twice a year to review applications. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to community enrichment and support.

The Community Food Solutions Grant offered by United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania aims to combat food insecurity by providing funding to grassroots organizations that understand the unique needs of their communities. With nearly a century of experience, United Way connects various sectors to enhance community support and engagement. This initiative not only aids in addressing immediate food access issues but also fosters collaboration among local organizations to create sustainable change.

The Federal STOP Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program, administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, aims to enhance community responses to domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. By fostering collaboration among law enforcement, prosecution, and victim services, this program ensures a comprehensive approach to address these issues. With a focus on effective strategies and accountability for offenders, the grant encourages innovative solutions to protect and support victims, ultimately aiming to improve safety across communities in Pennsylvania.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - New Hampshire

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

The BJA FY 2026 Second Chance Act Community-based Reentry Program aims to support community organizations and tribal governments in providing essential mentoring and transitional services for individuals returning from correctional facilities. This initiative targets those assessed as moderate to high risk for recidivism, addressing their needs both pre-and post-release. By fostering successful reintegration into society, the program contributes to public safety and reduces recidivism rates, aligning with the mission of the U.S. Department of Justice.

The Store-Based Giving Program by Ross Stores Foundation supports socioeconomically disadvantaged youth by providing gift cards for school or professional clothing. Organizations must be federal tax-exempt and serve at least 60% low-income youth. Eligible programs include academic achievement and life skills initiatives. Award amounts typically range from $300 to $500, depending on budget and mission alignment. Applications are not accepted from organizations that have received donations within the past 12 months.

Nurses Educational Funds

Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. depends solely on donations to advance our only mission, to promote nursing leadership through annual scholarship support for professional nurses seeking masters and doctoral degrees in nursing education, practice, research, and administration.

NEF’s only purpose is to provide nursing scholarship assistance to make graduate level nursing education possible. NEF is one of the largest, national, private, professionally endorsed source of funds for advanced nursing study with over one hundred years of service to and for professional nursing. NEF is a non-profit organization with 501(c) status.

Rita Reis Wieczorek Scholarship for Maternal-Infant and Pediatric Nursing

Created in 2020, by Rita Reis Wieczorek, EdD, RN, PNP, FAAN, together with NEF. Dr. Wieczorek is an NEF Board Member Emeritus and longtime board member. This scholarship is the first NEF Scholarship to focus on maternal-infant and pediatric nursing. For over four decades Dr. Wieczorek has devoted her career to providing the best maternal-infant and pediatric care to her patients as well as teaching the highest standards of care to master's and doctoral nursing students, motivating them to excel in their care for the well-being of mothers, infants and children.