Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

The West Virginia Nita M. Lowey 21st CCLC Grant supports community learning centers that provide essential academic enrichment opportunities for children during non-school hours. Aimed at those from high-poverty and low-performing schools, the program fosters improved academic performance in core subjects like reading and math. With grants ranging from $50,000 to $250,000, the initiative also includes support for families, enhancing educational services and community engagement over a potential five-year funding period.

PGE Foundation

The PGE Foundation, an independent philanthropic organization, aligns its grantmaking with Portland General Electric’s commitment to the communities it serves.

Founded in 1997, the Foundation was created through an endowment with the purpose of improving the quality of life for all Oregonians.

Since our inception, more than $33 million in investments has helped community-based organizations expand access to education, creative expression, and career pathways that strengthen long-term economic prosperity.

Climate Resilient Communities Fund

The PGE Foundation is pleased to announce the launch of its new Climate Resilient Communities Fund. Opening in March 2026, the Climate Resilient Communities Fund will help strengthen community preparedness, protect vulnerable populations, and support long-term environmental and economic vitality across Oregon. This new investment builds on extensive engagement with community partners and reflects the growing urgency of climate-related risks facing Oregon communities today, particularly those historically under-resourced.

Record-breaking wildfires, extreme heat, and other climate-related disasters are challenging our communities like never before—especially those in historically underinvested areas. We support locally driven, community-based programs that address some of the most pressing climate challenges facing Oregonians. We believe solutions rooted in local leadership are best informed by the needs and lived experiences of the communities most affected.

We prioritize organizations and programs that demonstrate elements of the following:

Core Mission

The mission of the organization prioritizes:

• Wildfire Hazard and Preparedness: Supporting community-driven strategies to reduce wildfire hazards, enable preparedness and response, and build long-term recovery capacity in fire-prone areas before fire comes.
• Nature-based Solutions: Investing in community stewardship through habitat restoration, tree canopy, and green infrastructure projects that cool communities, improve water and air quality, and protect ecosystems
• Parks and Public Spaces: Expanding, enhancing, and sustaining equitable access to safe, climate-resilient outdoor community gathering spaces where people connect and find refuge.

Outcomes

The proposed project will result in:

• Increased local community capacity and ongoing stewardship for resilience (especially for small and rural organizations)
• Measurable improvements in wildfire preparedness, canopy cover, restoration and green infrastructure
• Greater access to climate-resilient public spaces
• Stronger collaboration and learning networks across sectors

The Vermont Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21C) Grant offers up to $650,000 annually over five years to enhance afterschool and summer learning programs. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive support for students, fostering educational opportunities and community engagement. Eligible applicants are encouraged to apply for funding to implement high-quality educational activities that address local needs and improve student outcomes.

The Maine Cancer Foundation is seeking proposals for cancer screening initiatives aimed at early detection and prevention. This RFP focuses on screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, prostate, and skin cancers. Proposals should align with evidence-based practices endorsed by the CDC and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Interested applicants are encouraged to consult with MCF prior to submission to discuss project concepts and receive feedback on draft applications.

The Fund for Veterans' Assistance (FVA) offers General Assistance Grants to support veterans and their families in Texas. Eligible applicants include charitable organizations and local governments that provide essential services such as financial aid, housing support, and skill training. Grants are awarded to programs addressing veteran homelessness, business support, and legal assistance. Organizations must apply through the Grants Portal, and previous recipients are not eligible for renewal. This initiative aims to enhance the welfare of Texas veterans.

The WV Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) supports agricultural producers and forest landowners in enhancing conservation practices while maintaining production. Eligible participants can receive payments for activities like cover crops and rotational grazing under a 5-year contract. The program promotes sustainable practices, ensuring compliance with conservation requirements. With year-round applications, CSP offers incentives for improving existing practices and adopting new ones, ultimately benefiting both producers and natural resources.

The Fichtenbaum Charitable Trust, established in 2017, supports Texas charitable organizations in areas such as medical research for serious conditions, education for children with disabilities, and promoting fine arts. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $100,000, with an average of $35,000. The Trust prioritizes unique and necessary proposals that meet local community needs and do not duplicate existing services, particularly focusing on projects in Dallas County and surrounding areas.

The WCF Capacity Building Grants support small, emerging nonprofits in the Greater Williamsburg area, focusing on enhancing effectiveness and sustainability. Grants of up to $1,500 are available for organizations with an operating budget under $50,000 that serve specific community needs. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or have a fiscal agent. The Foundation prioritizes areas such as arts, health, and community wellness, aiming to strengthen organizations for future funding opportunities.

The California Inflation Reduction Act Grants support Urban and Community Forestry projects aimed at enhancing tree canopy access and community engagement, particularly in disadvantaged areas. With a state allocation of $30.8 million, these grants promote climate resilience, combat extreme heat, and improve forest health. Funded by the USDA Forest Service, the initiative aligns with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, ensuring equitable access to the benefits of urban trees and fostering community involvement in environmental stewardship.

The California Watershed Protection Fund Grant supports projects aimed at enhancing water quality and protecting watersheds throughout California. With grants ranging from $10,000 to $40,000, eligible applicants include 501(c)3 organizations and governmental entities. Priority is given to initiatives that engage impacted communities and uphold principles of equity and environmental justice. The fund emphasizes hands-on activities that yield tangible benefits for surface water quality, fostering community-based stewardship in response to fluctuating watershed needs.

The International Initiative Grant, funded by the Weyerhaeuser Family Foundation, aims to empower women and girls in developing countries by advancing their economic opportunities, education, and health. The program focuses on skill building, access to capital, and creating safe educational environments. Eligible organizations must be U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits, with a history of at least seven years. The foundation prioritizes community-informed, women-led initiatives that address systemic barriers and promote environmental sustainability.

The Michigan Sea Grant Research Program invites proposals for Core Research projects addressing critical research needs for the Great Lakes and its coastal ecosystems from 2026 to 2028. Projects should enhance decision-making and engage Michigan communities, with a budget of up to $220,000 over two years. Full proposals are due by August 15, 2025, and must include at least 50% non-federal matching funds. This initiative aims to foster collaboration among university researchers and relevant agencies.

The Heritage Partnership Program, managed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department, aims to foster collaboration on projects that deliver conservation and recreational benefits. Eligible entities include governmental agencies, Indian tribes, and 501c3 organizations. With specific funding categories for habitat management, public access enhancement, and urban wildlife conservation, projects must be completed within one year, following the state fiscal year. Note that no funding is available for FY26 as all funds are obligated.

The VCF: Hollows Fund Grant, established by the Vermont Community Foundation, supports educational opportunities and community sustainability in Poultney. Grants range from $250 to $1,500, aimed at schools and nonprofits addressing children's needs and fostering engagement. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and provide ADA-accessible programs. The fund prioritizes collaborative projects that enhance community connections and respond to local challenges, promoting a vibrant and inclusive environment for all residents.

The Collaborative Health Sciences Program RFP by the University of Wisconsin aims to fund innovative research addressing complex health issues in Wisconsin. With a maximum award of $600,000 over three years, this initiative encourages interdisciplinary teams to explore new directions in health research. Eligible proposals should demonstrate potential for additional funding and focus on improving health equity, addressing diseases, clinical knowledge, and innovative training for health professionals, while ensuring collaboration among diverse disciplines.

The La Jolla Kiwanis Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare by supporting initiatives that benefit children and families in La Jolla and San Diego. Funded through events like the La Jolla Half Marathon, grants prioritize areas such as maternal and child health, education, and community services. The foundation encourages direct allocation of funds to charitable causes and emphasizes responsible spending without unnecessary expenses like trophies. This support reflects a commitment to improving lives and fostering a child-friendly community.

The Judy Dudziak Endowment for Community Music Organizations aims to enhance the cultural landscape in Los Alamos by providing up to $750 in unrestricted operating support to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. These grants focus on promoting appreciation for various music genres, including classical, orchestral, and choral performances. The initiative reflects a commitment to fostering community engagement through the arts and ensuring that local organizations can thrive and sustain their programs.

The Forest Health Grant from CAL FIRE aims to enhance the resilience of California's forests against extreme disturbances such as wildfires and drought. This program supports landscape-scale projects focused on restoring forest health, protecting water resources, and promoting carbon storage. By funding activities that improve forest management and reforestation, CAL FIRE addresses climate change impacts while ensuring the sustainability of vital ecosystems. Eligible projects must demonstrate clear climate benefits through various management practices.

The Thomas H. White Foundation offers grants to tax-exempt, non-profit organizations in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, focusing on programs that enhance early childhood education, promote educational success for K-12 students, and support workforce readiness. Eligible organizations must primarily serve residents of Cleveland and comply with specific requirements. Notably, capital campaign requests are ineligible. For more details, applicants are encouraged to contact the foundation directly.

The PacificSource Foundation for Health Improvement, a private foundation, is dedicated to promoting health equity since 1992. With a focus on underserved populations in Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and parts of Washington, the foundation supports initiatives that enhance access to healthcare and address health disparities. They provide both one-year and multi-year funding, typically ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, to organizations committed to advancing health equity through diverse community-driven solutions.

The Coachella Valley - Proposition 68 Grant Program, administered by the California Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy, provides funding to public agencies, nonprofits, and tribes for projects that enhance watershed health, land conservation, and community resilience. This initiative aligns with the 2018 California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection, and Outdoor Access Act, promoting public access to parks and encouraging water conservation efforts while addressing climate change impacts.

The George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in Utah through philanthropic efforts. With a mission to support impactful projects in arts, education, community welfare, health, and preservation, the foundation seeks organizations that deliver measurable benefits without duplicating existing services. Applications for 2025 are encouraged to be submitted early, as the grant aims to foster significant community contributions and support a diverse range of initiatives.

The Cloudsplitter Foundation offers Program and Project Support Grants aimed at well-defined initiatives with specific needs and budgets. With a focus on the Adirondack region, these grants prioritize projects that foster community support and collaboration among stakeholders. Applicants are encouraged to submit their proposals early due to high demand, as funding is limited to a percentage of project costs. The Foundation seeks to empower organizations that show potential for significant community impact.

The Westinghouse Charitable Giving Program aims to strengthen community ties by providing financial support in key areas such as education focused on STEM, environmental sustainability, and community safety. This program welcomes applications from eligible organizations that meet specific grant criteria, including being tax-exempt and located within 50 miles of a Westinghouse site. The initiative underscores Westinghouse's commitment to advancing education, promoting environmental stewardship, and enhancing community well-being.

The T.L.L. Temple Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in East Texas by addressing poverty through targeted grants in education, health, economic development, and community revitalization. With a focus on marginalized communities, the foundation aims to break the cycle of poverty by improving access to essential resources and opportunities. By investing in health care, educational programs, and economic initiatives, they strive to foster thriving communities and promote sustainable growth in the region.

The Longwood Foundation, established in 1937, supports nonprofit organizations in Delaware and Kennett Square. It seeks to enhance community quality of life by funding proposals that align with local missions. Organizations requesting over $500,000 must have a pre-meeting prior to application submission. The Foundation encourages innovative, impactful proposals that drive growth and strengthen nonprofit efforts. Responsive philanthropy is key, allowing nonprofits to present their most significant needs for community betterment.

The WKKF Grant, offered by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, is dedicated to fostering a future where every child and family thrives. With a focus on nurturing early education, accessible healthcare, and equitable food systems, this grant supports initiatives that empower communities across the U.S. and parts of Mexico and Haiti. Organizations meeting IRS regulations and being legal entities, particularly 501(c)(3) nonprofits, are encouraged to apply for funding to create lasting impacts in their communities.