Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

The AWS Wildlife Ecology Research Scholarship, offered by the Australian Wildlife Society, supports Higher Degree by Research students focused on conserving Australia's native wildlife. Each year, one recipient receives a total of $5,000, distributed over two semesters. The scholarship covers operational costs for research projects, including travel, fieldwork, software, and equipment. Eligible candidates must hold a relevant Bachelor’s degree and be enrolled full-time at designated Australian universities. This initiative underscores the commitment to wildlife preservation.

The Kleinhans Fellowship for Community Forestry Research, funded by the Rainforest Alliance, supports innovative research aimed at enhancing the sustainability and profitability of Community Forest Enterprises (CFEs) in Latin America. With a grant of $20,000 per year for two years, the fellowship prioritizes research on market access for lesser-known species, biodiversity management, social organization, and multi-community enterprises, ensuring collaborative and practical solutions to real-world challenges faced by local communities.

The Georgia Civil Money Penalty Reinvestment Funds Grant aims to enhance the quality of care and life for nursing home residents through reinvestment of civil money penalties. Funded projects may include tele-health innovations, training for staff, and support for resident councils. The grant encourages organizations such as advocacy groups and academic institutions to apply, fostering community involvement in improving care standards while ensuring compliance with CMS regulations.

The PM Company's Spirit of Giving is a charitable initiative founded in 2007 by Pat Minnite Sr., aimed at supporting local nonprofits in the Mid-Ohio Valley, particularly in Wood County, WV, and Washington County, OH. Through grants, this program addresses the needs of vulnerable populations, fostering community well-being. Originating from a holiday gift tradition, it now channels resources into meaningful contributions, aligning with the mission of enhancing local philanthropic efforts and positively impacting the community.

The State Shelter Subsidy Grant (SSSG) program assists individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness by providing grants to local agencies in Wisconsin that provide emergency shelter and supportive services. Emergency shelter programs applying for this grant must have a need for additional funding due to the renovation/expansion of an existing shelter facility, the development of an existing building into a shelter facility, the expansion (or development) of shelter services, or the inability of a shelter program to obtain adequate funding to continue providing their existing level of service.

The SSSG program provides operation funds to emergency shelter and motel voucher programs that have additional funding needs due to:

• Renovation/expansion of an existing emergency shelter facility
• Development of an existing building into an emergency shelter facility
• Expansion (or development) of emergency shelter services
• Inability of an emergency shelter program to obtain adequate funding to continue to provide an existing level of service 

The Occupational Therapy Neurological Fellowship at the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab offers a 12-month program designed to develop leaders in occupational therapy. Participants will engage in evidence-based practice and community-focused rehabilitation, supported by structured mentorship and opportunities for individualized learning. Graduates will be equipped to advocate for clients and pursue board certification in Physical Rehabilitation, contributing to advancements in neurorehabilitation through collaborative, research-informed practices.

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 - California

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 Bob Zylstra STEM Scholarship, offered by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports undergraduate students who identify as female or as students of color from West Michigan. This scholarship aims to empower students pursuing STEM majors by removing barriers to education and fostering diversity in these fields. Each year, the foundation awards scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 to help students achieve their academic and career aspirations.

The Les Mehrhoff Botanical Research Award, established by the New England Botanical Society, supports innovative botanical research that enhances our understanding of New England's flora. Open to applicants without membership, it prioritizes projects lacking traditional funding sources. Eligible expenses include fieldwork, lab supplies, and moderate stipends. This award encourages researchers to explore unconventional inquiries and fosters a deeper appreciation for the diverse plant life in northeastern North America.

The Youth Unplanned Pregnancy Prevention Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland, aims to address the significant issue of teen pregnancy in the area, which ranks fifth highest in Maryland. With a focus on empowering parents and providing educational resources, this fund supports programs that target youth and unplanned pregnancies. Grants of $600 are suggested, but flexibility exists to accommodate varying needs, ensuring impactful community engagement in preventing teen pregnancy.

Tennessee Department of Transportation

The Department of Transportation provides citizens of Tennessee and travelers with one of the best transportation systems in the country. TDOT consistently wins awards for its projects, highway design and innovative approach to transportation.

TDOT is a multimodal agency with responsibilities in aviation, public transit, waterways, railroads and cycling and walking. Our involvement ranges from airport improvements to funding transit buses to planning for river ports.

Transportation Planning Grants

The Transportation Planning Grant (TPG) is intended to assist jurisdictions (both municipalities and counties) with transportation planning efforts that determine strategies to support improvements in traffic flow, safety, mobility, and overall efficiency of the transportation system. Since 2015, TDOT has awarded 145 planning grants across the state, many of which have resulted in implementation funding.

The TPG funds transportation plans only.

Goals of the Transportation Planning Grant

• Assist Tennessee communities with multimodal transportation planning
• Bridge the gap between land use planning and transportation planning
• Aid with the creation of planning documents that support improvements in traffic flow, safety, and overall efficiency of the transportation system
• Provide planning resources to achieve community visions that promote future economic growth

Matching

• The TPG is 80% federal, 10% state, and 10% local match
• Distressed and At-Risk Counties as determined by TNECD (and municipalities within) as of FY26 qualify for 0% local match

Planning Opportunities

Planning opportunities include, but are not limited to: Complete Streets Plans; Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plans; Transportation System Management and Operations (TSMO) Plans; Corridor Studies; Resurfacing Plans; Community Mobility Plans

We also welcome any creative and innovative transportation planning ideas.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plans

A Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan can assist communities in prioritizing non-motorized transportation investments. As demand for alternative transportation options continue to grow, communities are increasingly recognizing the need for these facilities to help achieve their desirable quality of life. See more here.

Administrative Process

Through the Transportation Planning Grant program, your community will be paired with a consultant currently under contract with TDOT that will guide you through the planning process and bring your plan to life. The community is responsible for actively participating in the plan by establishing a Steering Committee, providing the match, and ensuring local support for the proposed study recommendations.

The Joyce W. Vickery Research Fund Grant, offered by the Linnean Society of New South Wales, supports research in the Biological Sciences, particularly in natural history within Australia. Eligible applicants include postgraduate students and amateur or professional biologists demonstrating research achievement. Grants typically do not exceed $2,500 for members and $1,500 for non-members, and are intended for research-related expenses such as travel and equipment, rather than thesis preparation or conference attendance.

The NEBC Graduate Student Research Award offers up to $3,000 to support graduate students conducting botanical research on New England's flora, including plants, algae, and fungi. This award encourages projects involving field, lab, and herbarium work, as well as travel within the region. Open to all graduate students, it aims to foster significant contributions to systematic botany, plant ecology, genetics, and conservation biology.

Green Mountain Power (GMP) is committed to community support through its GMP Community Giving initiative, focusing on basic needs, safety, resilience, equity, and environmental stewardship. With a strong presence in Vermont and a dedication to sustainability, GMP prioritizes organizations that contribute to community well-being and education. Their innovative approaches, like the Zero Outages Initiative, demonstrate a commitment to creating a sustainable and equitable future for all residents.

The Lilly Endowment Community Development Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Indianapolis and across Indiana, supporting initiatives that foster strong neighborhoods, arts, and human services. With a focus on charitable entities, the Endowment prioritizes projects that address societal challenges, especially for communities of color. Organizations interested in funding must submit a preliminary letter detailing their project and funding needs, adhering to guidelines that emphasize local community impact.

New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH)

The New Jersey Department of Health leads the state’s response to public health challenges and works to improve health outcomes for all New Jersey residents. Through its three primary branches—Public Health Services, Health Systems, and Integrated Health—the Department collaborates across programs and partners to strengthen New Jersey’s health system. Guided by its mission to protect public health, promote healthy communities, and improve the quality of health care, the Department supports initiatives that advance prevention, system integration, and equitable access to health services statewide.

NJ Statewide Family Centered Care Network (Ryan White Part D)

To provide comprehensive, culturally competent, coordinated medical care for infants, children, youth, women, and families who are infected or affected with HIV/AIDS. Referrals to appropriate ancillary medical & social services. 

Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services

Our mission is to be a diverse and inclusive organization providing programs, services and supports that protect and promote the health and well-being of all Kentuckians and their communities.

Rural Health Transformation Program Funding Opportunity for Rapid Response to Recovery – CMHC Support

About the Program

This project is 100% funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for a total of $212.9 million in budget year 1 with 100% by CMS/HHS. The RHTF grant spans five budget periods aligned with federal fiscal years (FY2026– FY2030). Funding is disbursed annually by CMS based on achievement of performance metrics.

Rapid Response to Recovery - CMHC Support

Kentucky RHT is investing in strengthening the behavioral health crisis system and safety net across the Commonwealth. Community Mental Health Centers are invited to apply for funding to support follow-up care after EmPATH visits and provide behavioral health training and coordination support for EMS agencies. 

Program Focus Areas: i) Program Focus Area 1: EmPATH ii) Program Focus Area 2: Crisis Response EMS Training and Care Coordination

Program Focus Area 2: Crisis Response EMS Training and Care Coordination

Purpose

Funds may be used to support CMHC-led training, coordination, and integration activities for community-based crisis response in partnership with EMS agencies.

New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH)

The New Jersey Department of Health leads the state’s response to public health challenges and works to improve health outcomes for all New Jersey residents. Through its three primary branches—Public Health Services, Health Systems, and Integrated Health—the Department collaborates across programs and partners to strengthen New Jersey’s health system. Guided by its mission to protect public health, promote healthy communities, and improve the quality of health care, the Department supports initiatives that advance prevention, system integration, and equitable access to health services statewide.

Special Child Health Services, Family Centered Care Services, Case Management

Provide partial support to current Special Child Health Services Case Management Units. Assure Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN) in New Jersey access to care coordination, medical home and parent support.

The Fund for Williamstown Grant, offered by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, provides vital support for nonprofits aiding residents in Williamstown, Massachusetts. Aiming to enhance community life through innovative programs, the grant targets social, emotional, and physical development. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and fiscally sponsored groups that demonstrate financial resiliency and commitment to future planning. This initiative focuses on fostering inclusivity and sustainable community growth, ensuring access to essential services and opportunities for all.

The Jean Longwith Scholarship for Radio-Television-Film, offered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in broadcasting, radio, television, and film. This scholarship is available to full-time students in Texas, including high school seniors and current college students. It is renewable for up to three years, provided recipients maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. Funding covers tuition, fees, books, and supplies, making it a valuable opportunity for aspiring media professionals.

The Aaron Roitman Chamber Music Fund Grants, established in 1994, support nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island that deliver high-quality professional chamber music performances. Grants of up to $8,000 are awarded biennially, with a preference for organizations that collaborate with established artists for special concerts. Notably, funds are not available for school music education programs, ensuring the focus remains on professional performances.

The State Food Purchase Program - Gleaning Support grant aims to assist nonprofit organizations in New Jersey that engage in gleaning activities. Funded by the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, the program encourages the collection of surplus produce from farms for distribution to food-insecure residents. Eligible applicants must have at least two years of operational experience in gleaning and must provide a detailed implementation plan. This initiative supports local efforts to combat hunger and promote food security.

The Royal Forestry Society's Viking Bursary, established through a bequest from Mrs. Sheila Jorgensen, supports students in higher education studying forestry. With awards up to £2,000, the bursary promotes research that enhances woodland management and resilience. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in relevant courses, focusing on original, independent study. Priority is given to projects within the UK, particularly in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, facilitating travel, accommodation, and equipment costs.

The Agricultural Leadership Grant, administered by Maine Agriculture in the Classroom (MAITC), supports leadership development for students enrolled in agricultural courses at Middle and High School levels. With grants of up to $1,000, the program emphasizes organized leadership activities over individual funding. Established in 2007, MAITC aims to enhance students' understanding of agriculture's role in society, benefiting over 77,000 students last year through various educational initiatives.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Irene & Marie Oberweis Nursing Scholarship Endowment Fund

This scholarship was created by Marie Oberweis as a loving tribute to her sister Irene.

Marie Oberweis (1921-2007) graduated from Madonna High School in 1939.

That year, she started her career with Oberweis Dairy where she later became a partner with her father Peter Oberweis and her brother Joseph Oberweis.

Irene Oberweis (1924-1996) attended Annunciation School in Aurora. She spent many years of her life in hospitals due to fragile health.

In gratitude for the exemplary care her sister received throughout her lifetime from those in the nursing profession, Marie Oberweis created a permanent scholarship fund to support area students entering the nursing field.

The Skutch Research Grants provide funding for researchers based in Latin America, replacing the previous Bergstrom Grant. This initiative, supported by Dr. Alexander Skutch's bequest, aims to promote research on Neotropical ornithology. Annually, up to five grants of $1500 USD each are awarded for projects that enhance knowledge of birds' natural history, ecology, and conservation across Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.