Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

The National Trappers Foundation (NTF) offers grants to individuals and organizations for projects related to furbearers. Founded in 1988, NTF supports educational and conservation initiatives that promote the management and restoration of furbearers and natural resources. Grants are available for research, habitat development, and educational programs. Contributions to NTF are tax-deductible, reflecting its commitment to conservation and community engagement.

Tenant and Housing Justice Grant

Social Justice Fund Northwest (SJF) is pleased to announce the 2026 Tenant & Housing Justice Grant, open to grassroots organizations in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and/or Wyoming.

Grant Awards:

• Maximum one-year grant award of $25,000

Focus:

• Tenant and housing justice organizing in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming

Description

This grant seeks to support organizations working to undo and/or create alternative solutions to exploitative housing systems which were built and are sustained by capitalism, colonialism, classism, racism, xenophobia, and ableism. This grant will fund organizations that meet SJF’s community organizing framework and prioritize communities underrepresented in traditional grantmaking.

Tenant and Housing Justice community organizing work can include, but is not limited to:

• Collective power building among tenants to dismantle and push against the current oppressive housing systems and structures 
  • Examples: rental and utilities assistance, tenants’ rights training, eviction prevention and intervention, etc.
• Local and statewide tenant and housing systems/policy change 
• Tenant leadership development
• Creating collective, cooperative housing structures
• Re-entry organizing by and for folks who were recently incarcerated to provide housing and resources, influence and set policy, etc.
• Disability justice organizing focused on affordable, accessible, and supportive housing for disabled folks and elders
• Survivor-led organizing for people transitioning out of abusive situations

The Cyanotoxin Monitoring Equipment and Training Grants, offered by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, support public water systems in monitoring cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins in surface water sources. Since 2017, these grants have funded essential equipment like fluorometers and microscope cameras, and assist in developing Quality Assurance Project Plans. Eligible applicants include municipalities, non-profit organizations, and various associations. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, ensuring continuous support for water quality initiatives.

The Kronkosky Charitable Foundation Grant focuses on supporting children and youth by preventing child abuse, aiding victims of trafficking, and enhancing foster care programs. The foundation also emphasizes character development and enrichment opportunities for young individuals. With a commitment to fostering vibrant communities, it funds organizations that provide essential resources to vulnerable populations while promoting artistic and cultural initiatives.

The Alan H. Kamb Grant for Research on Kansas Snakes offers $300 annually to KHS members for research on native Kansas snake species. Proposals must include a detailed plan and be submitted by September 25. The winner is announced at the KHS annual meeting in November. If no qualified proposals are received, the grant will not be awarded that year. This grant supports vital research efforts to enhance knowledge of Kansas' diverse snake populations.

CSFS - Statewide Organics Management Programs Grant

Minnesota climate smart food systems (CSFS)

The MPCA has approximately $6 million available to support organics management programs across the state that will expand participation in Minnesota’s organics recycling system and reduce the amount of wasted food and food scraps disposed of through landfilling or incineration. Grant funding will support projects focused on organics collection programs, outreach and education that improve or increase organics recycling, and/or market development for finished compost and anaerobic digestion outputs. Projects focusing primarily on organics processing facilities such as compost sites and anaerobic digesters are not eligible. 

Available funds

Total available funds: $6 million. Applicants must match at least 20% of the grant request with cash or in-kind contributions. 

Large projects ($5 million):

• maximum award: $1.5 million
• minimum award: $300,000

Smaller projects ($1 million):

• maximum award: $299,999
• minimum award: $100,000 (applicants requesting less than the minimum amount will be deemed ineligible)

Our Story

Established over 50 years ago, our founders redefined local philanthropy, fostering connections around a shared sense of place and purpose. As Virginia's largest community foundation, we bring people together to pool resources, co-create solutions and align actions for impactful change in the Richmond region.

Scholarships are offered to students living in the Richmond region and other Virginia locations. Each scholarship was established by a generous individual, family, or organization with a desire to assist high school students, recent high school graduates, and adult learners to continue their education. 

John E. Thomasson Scholarship

The John E. Thomasson Scholarship Fund was established in 2001 to support postsecondary educational opportunities for youth of African American or other minority heritage in the Louisa County (Virginia) Public Schools or Fluvanna County (Virginia) Public Schools. Scholarships will be awarded on a competitive basis to students who have been admitted to an accredited two-year technical school, four-year Historically Black College or University or the school of their choice. Preference will be given to applicants planning to attend Virginia State University, Hampton University, Virginia Union University, or Norfolk State University.

Estimated Award Amount

• (2) $1,000 

Conserve Nevada Program

How Much is Available:

Approximately $10,000,000 in Nevada Conservation and Recreation Program grant funds issued through general obligation bonds are available to Nevada’s cities, counties, towns, general improvement districts (GIDs), conservation districts, water conservancy districts, nonprofit organizations, and state agencies. 

Under Assembly Bill 84 passed by the Nevada Legislature in 2019, Conserve Nevada (Nevada Conservation and Recreation Program) is a continuation and renewal of the State’s original conservation bond program, formerly known as the Conservation Bond Program (or Q1) enacted in 2002. Conserve Nevada supports the conservation and enhancement of Nevada’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources with funding awards to public and private projects that benefit all Nevadans and visitors. From creating fire-resilient landscapes and ecosystems, to protecting rivers and wetlands, to advancing sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities for families and visitors, to preserving historic and cultural treasures, the Conserve Nevada program will continue to cultivate a healthy, vibrant Nevada for generations to come.

Meet The Trustees

The Schrafft Candy Company was founded in Boston as a candy company by William F. Schrafft in 1861 before expanding into the restaurant business with stores in Boston and New York. The famous Schrafft neon sign, constructed in 1928, still sits atop the former candy factory in Charlestown, MA, where it can be seen from Route 93. In 1946, William and his wife Bertha Schrafft established a private charitable foundation which today continues their legacy of giving to improve the lives of the citizens of Boston and Massachusetts, especially its young people.

Schrafft Charitable Trust

Mission

The William and Bertha Schrafft Charitable Trust invests in community-based organizations to expand access to educational and artistic opportunities for young people in Boston and New Bedford.

Vision

We envision a future where every young person in Boston and New Bedford has the opportunity and resources to thrive and achieve their full potential.

How We Invest

Schrafft Charitable Trust is committed to investing in communities that have faced long-standing systemic disinvestment, aiming to increase access to life affirming services and opportunities.

Focus Areas

We are committed to helping young people develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in school to lay the foundation for satisfying and productive lives. Our education partners deliver high quality academic and college preparatory programming with a demonstrated ability to graduate students who then succeed in higher education and careers.

The Kentucky Pride Fund Recycling Grant aims to enhance Kentucky's recycling infrastructure through efficient projects leveraging limited funds. Established in 2006, this grant program requires a 25% match and prioritizes regional recycling and household hazardous waste management initiatives. By fostering public education and collaboration among local governments, it seeks to develop sustainable practices that address waste management challenges, ensuring a cleaner environment for future generations. This effort underscores the state's commitment to environmental stewardship.

The Lotte Lenya Competition, established in 1998 by the Kurt Weill Foundation for Music, honors the legacy of renowned actress Lotte Lenya. This unique contest blends acting and vocal skills, targeting performers aged 19-32 from diverse backgrounds. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2023, the competition has increased its prize offerings, with over $1.6 million awarded to more than 800 singers. It's a prestigious platform that has propelled many winners to successful careers in musical theater and opera.

About Colin Farrell FoundationThe Colin Farrell Foundation is committed to transforming the lives of individuals and families living with intellectual disability through education, awareness, advocacy, and innovative programs. Inspired by his two sons, he is excited and deeply humbled by the hope that the Colin Farrell Foundation can help those who the larger systems of governance have neglected.

CFF Innovation GrantsWe’re looking for bold, scalable solutions focused on one or more of these priority areas:

• Affordable co-housing models for individuals and families
• Employer-partnered day programs and inclusive job opportunities
• Tools and technologies that enhance accessibility at home and in community spaces
• Cross-sector collaborations between public, private, and nonprofit organizations

The John Franzén Grant for the Arts, established by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation, offers a $25,000 annual award to support visual, performing, and architectural arts programs that foster community engagement on Capitol Hill. This grant honors John Franzén, a dedicated community leader, and aims to enhance the cultural landscape by helping artists and organizations increase their outreach and impact. Since its inception in 1989, the Foundation has invested over $6.6 million in community projects.

The Jerry and Martha Taylor Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, supports students from Rock Island County pursuing post-secondary education. With awards of up to $1,000, this scholarship is not renewable and is open to applicants with a minimum GPA of 2.75. Preference is given to students majoring in journalism, theater arts, or special education, or those attending accredited trade schools.

The National Sea Grant Law Center is inviting proposals for the Coastal Resilience Program to research laws and policies addressing coastal resilience challenges such as sea level rise and flooding. With a funding cap of $150,000 over two years, this initiative aims to assess the effectiveness of existing policies and promote informed decision-making in coastal management. Up to two projects will be selected for funding, supporting innovative solutions to enhance community resilience against environmental threats.

Raptor Research Foundation

The Raptor Research Foundation advances the science, conservation, and understanding of birds of prey -RRF Mission Statement

The Raptor Research Foundation (RRF) is the world’s largest professional society for raptor researchers and conservationists. Founded in 1966 as a non-profit organization, our primary goal is the accumulation and dissemination of scientific information about raptors. The Foundation organizes annual scientific conferences and provides competitive grants and awards for researchers and conservationists. The Foundation also provides support and networking opportunities for students and early career raptor researchers.

“Wings to Fly” Travel Grant

The Award: The “Wings to Fly” grant supports travel from outside the U.S. and Canada for four to five raptor researchers or conservationists to present a paper or poster at our annual meeting.

Each grant will include support for airfare, visa fees, and food and lodging, as well as waived conference registration fees and a one-year membership to RRF. 

The Lowell Hill, Virginia Wilson Hill and Pegine Hill Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 2022 by Virginia Tameron Hedge, honors her grandparents and mother, emphasizing the importance of education and community service. Administered by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, this renewable scholarship targets students pursuing degrees in education, the arts, and historic preservation, particularly within the 40 counties served by CFMT, with a preference for applicants from Bedford and Williamson counties.

Urban Tree Canopy Analysis Grant

The Urban Forestry Division (UFD) within the District of Columbia Department of Transportation (DDOT) is soliciting detailed proposals from organizations to conduct an Urban Tree Canopy (UTC) analysis. The project is funded by the United States Forest Service through its Cooperative Forestry Assistance program.

The applicant will compile and provide a comprehensive UTC assessment report for DDOT-UFD. The report will estimate the current extent of the District of Columbia’s UTC and will incorporate data from this and previous studies. Previous UTC analyses were conducted in 2006, 2011, 2016, and 2020. The report will highlight programs, initiatives, trends, opportunities, and ongoing challenges to achieving and sustaining the District’s 40% canopy goal. The report will include a discussion on the results as well as broad recommendations. Interested local government, non-governmental, and community-based organizations may apply for Fiscal Year 2026 UTC analysis funds. Individual proposals should not exceed $100,000.

The NPN’s Southern Artists for Social Change Grant offers $75,000 project grants to BIPOC artists and culture bearers in Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi, fostering social change through civic practice. This initiative aims to empower communities by supporting collaborations that address local challenges, envision futures centered on racial justice, and enhance artistic practices. Launched in 2020, it has funded 28 transformative projects, promoting equity and justice in the arts across the region.

Daviess County Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Daviess County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

The Community Foundation can help you...

• Make a difference where it matters
• Invest in the future of the community you love
• Create greater good together

John R. Chapman Scholarship

Annual, renewable scholarship established by the John R. Chapman Trust Fund to provide a renewable scholarship to graduating seniors of Washington Community or North Daviess high schools.

Award Amount

• $4,170

Ohio Department of Health

The Ohio Department of Health’s mission is advancing the health and well-being of all Ohioans by transforming the state’s public health system through unique partnerships and funding streams; addressing the community conditions and inequities that lead to disparities in health outcomes; and implementing data-driven, evidence-based solutions.

Ohio Housing Trust Fund Special Projects Grant Program

The Ohio Housing Trust Fund (OHTF) consists of fees collected by county recorders that may be used to make grants, loans, loan guarantees, and loan subsidies to counties, municipal corporations, townships, local housing authorities, and nonprofit organizations to assist in activities that provide housing and housing assistance for specifically targeted low- and moderate-income families and individuals.

Annually, a portion of the OHTF is set aside for the Special Projects Grant Program. This program, administered by the Community Services Division’s Office of Housing Support (OHS), provides funding for special projects and innovative proposals that will principally benefit persons or households with income at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) and meet the OHTF’s rules and regulations, as outlined in Ohio Revised Code 174.

1-1 match required for funds when applying.

The Chapman Collection Study Grants, administered by the American Museum of Natural History, provide financial support for predoctoral and recent postdoctoral researchers to conduct specimen-based ornithological research. Grants prioritize graduate students lacking other funding and cover travel and subsistence costs, encouraging projects longer than four days. Each grant is capped at $2,000 and aims to enhance research opportunities within the Museum's extensive collections, ensuring vital studies in avian systematics are conducted.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Robert Rainsberger Scholarship - Purdue Northwest

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Robert Rainsberger Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

The Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) Supplemental School Grant FY26 aims to support Maryland local education agencies (LEAs) in providing wrap-around services to economically disadvantaged students. This initiative facilitates students in earning a high school diploma and a two-year associate degree while prioritizing their employment with partner companies. Eligible LEAs can receive $750 per student, requiring a 100% matching of the grant funds to maximize resources for student success.

The KWEF Overseas Research Grant Program supports Asian scientists conducting water-related Environmental Science and Technology research in their home countries. This grant is available for applicants from countries excluding Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. Eligible candidates must be under 40 years old, conduct research at a recognized institution, and submit a recommendation letter from a Japanese professor. The funding period is from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.

The Milton & Phyllis Berg Family Respite Care Grants, offered by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, support member organizations in providing respite care scholarships to families affected by Alzheimer's. This initiative enhances the quality of life for both individuals and caregivers by promoting social engagement and offering essential breaks for caregivers. Grants are awarded biannually in memory of Barry E. Berg's parents, who faced Alzheimer's and caregiving challenges.