Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

The J. Warren & Lois McClure Foundation provides invitation-only grants aimed at enhancing postsecondary education opportunities for young Vermonters. By prioritizing equity and systemic change, the foundation supports initiatives that make education more accessible and affordable. Grants range from $10,000 to over $100,000, focusing on scaling Vermont's Free Degree Promise and diversifying the public educator workforce. Organizations serving Vermont's communities are encouraged to apply for funding aligned with these goals.

Title: State Training School – Supplementary Support Services for Individuals in State Correctional Institutions

Funding Period:

July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026

General Information

The purpose of the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V) is to develop more fully the academic and career, and technical skills of secondary and post-secondary students who elect to enroll in career and technical education programs. Funds made available under this Act for career and technical education activities are provided to supplement and supplant non-federal funds expended to carry out career and technical education activities.

Purpose

The funds are to provide supplementary support services for individuals participating in career and technical education programs offered in State correctional institutions. The services assist these individuals in completing career and technical education programs that prepare them for high-skill, high-wage, or high-demand occupations that will lead to self-sufficiency.

Targeted Population

Individuals in State correctional institutions participating in career and technical education programs.

The FSBI Research Grants support innovative research in fish biology and fisheries science, open to all Society members worldwide. Eligible applicants must be paid FSBI members at the time of application. This initiative encourages novel projects that align with the Society's objectives, fostering advancements in the field while providing a platform for researchers to contribute significantly to fish biology and fisheries science.

The Curriculum and Instruction Honor Award, presented by SHAPE America, recognizes outstanding contributions to health and physical education curriculum research. This prestigious award highlights the importance of effective instructional practices that prepare students for active and healthy lives. Award recipients are selected based on their scholarship in health education and physical education, demonstrating commitment to excellence since the organization's founding in 1885. SHAPE America advocates for quality education and promotes the well-being of preK-12 students across the United States.

The Community Development Block Grant Program for Indian Tribes and Alaska Native Villages aims to foster the development of viable communities by providing funding for housing, living environments, and economic opportunities, primarily benefiting low- and moderate-income individuals. The program is competitive, offering both single-purpose and imminent threat grants to address urgent public health and safety issues, ensuring that tribes can improve their community welfare effectively.

About

Founded in 1980, the Alaska Conservation Foundation is the only public foundation solely dedicated to conservation in Alaska, connecting thousands of committed donors and businesses worldwide with more than a hundred grassroots conservation organizations in Alaska.

Alpenglow Grant Program

The Alpenglow Grant Program provides grant awards to Alaska-based grassroots organizations in order to foster a more effective Alaska conservation movement through funding opportunities that strengthen the movement’s leadership base, encourage collaboration, and help leaders, organizations, and Tribes navigate changing political and economic climates.

Alaska Conservation Foundation supports direct conservation work that protects Alaska’s unique landscapes and ways of life by supporting conservation leaders, organizations, and initiatives.

Grant awards range from $500 to $2,000

Grant Awards will support:

Strategic opportunities that strengthen the movement’s leadership base, encourage collaboration, and help leaders and organizations navigate changing political and economic climates. Supported activities may include:

• Training for staff and board
• Meeting facilitation
• Legal assistance
• Travel
• Conference fees
• Outreach and Advocacy
• Strategic program expansion
• Up to 15% Administrative Fee

The Colorado Wetlands for Wildlife Program invites applications for projects aimed at restoring, enhancing, and creating wetlands and riparian areas. This initiative focuses on improving habitats for ducks and other at-risk species, supporting public waterfowl hunting, and addressing conservation needs. Local governments, tribes, and non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply. The program emphasizes collaborative efforts to achieve habitat improvements, aligning with the Colorado State Wildlife Action Plan.

The Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program (MISGP) aims to combat both terrestrial and aquatic invasive species through prevention, detection, eradication, and control strategies. Jointly managed by the Departments of Natural Resources, Environmental Quality, and Agriculture, this program focuses on strengthening the early detection network, preventing new invasions, and controlling established species. Funding is prioritized based on specific criteria, project metrics, and geographic location, ensuring effective resource allocation.

The Holloway Family Foundation, established in North Central Texas, aims to enhance community quality of life regardless of race, gender, or religion. Their mission focuses on financial security, creative expression for under-resourced youth, and mentorship for personal development. The foundation supports organizations that provide workforce training, artistic opportunities for children, and guidance for youth in need. By fostering individual growth and economic stability, they empower families and strengthen communities, staying true to the founders' core values and personal experiences.

Single Ventricle Research Fund (SVRF)

Our flagship funding program — the Single Ventricle Research Fund (SVRF) — is an annual research award program that supports foundational studies aimed at improving outcomes for individuals with single ventricle heart disease. By addressing the organ- and multi-organ-level complications and clinical sequelae that drive long-term morbidity and mortality, the SVRF seeks to close critical gaps in understanding and treatment, and accelerate progress toward better, more predictive, and preventative care.

In its sixth cycle, the SVRF welcomes foundational research that is directly relevant to improving outcomes for individuals with single ventricle heart disease.

What Fits

Through the SVRF, Additional Ventures aims to accelerate foundational research that will lead to improved care and new therapeutic opportunities grounded in a mechanistic understanding of single ventricle heart disease.

The 2027 SVRF welcomes research aligned with the focus areas and strategic topics described in the Additional Ventures’ 2026 Research Roadmap. We are particularly interested in proposals that seek to elucidate the mechanisms underlying, prevent, or reverse the interrelated organ- and multi-organ-level sequelae that contribute to long-term morbidity and mortality.

Eligible investigators include postdoctoral fellows or equivalents holding a mentored position. Collaborative proposals will not be accepted through this track.

Arkansas Department of Agriculture

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture, forestry, and natural resources to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while conserving natural resources and ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation.

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture works closely with Arkansas’s 75 conservation districts to protect and manage the state’s natural resources. We provide ongoing support through technical assistance, program coordination, training, and funding opportunities. Our goal is to strengthen each district’s capacity to deliver effective, locally led conservation efforts across the state.

Conservation District Grant Program

The Conservation District Grant Program provides funding to enhance the ability of conservation districts to carry out local conservation efforts. Through this program, the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission offers grant assistance for projects that promote resource protection, enhancement, or restoration.

Applications are reviewed for feasibility, practicability, and potential benefit to the applying district. After review, Department staff will rank each application and make funding recommendations to the Natural Resources Division Director. The director will then present recommended projects to the commission for final approval. Grant awards are made based on the anticipated conservation impact at the district, regional, or statewide level.

Ohio Water Development Authority

The Ohio Water Development Authority (OWDA) provides financial assistance for environmental infrastructure from the sale of municipal revenue bonds through loans to local governments in Ohio and from the issuance of industrial revenue bonds for qualified conduit projects in Ohio.

Emergency Relief Program

For What: Relief from Construction Repayments of Drinking Water, Wastewater, and Solid Waste Infrastructure

Purpose

For short-term relief from OWDA loan repayments so communities can use their repayment funds to recover from damages to their water, wastewater and solid waste infrastructure resulting from a federal or state declared emergency; OR

For construction of infrastructure to provide water and wastewater services to individual homes relocated due to mine subsidence. 

Grant Amount

• Maximum of 2 semi-annual OWDA loan repayments can be made on behalf of qualifying communities for damages due to a declared federal or state disaster.
• $25,000 per household to re-establish water and sewer services after being relocated from an area of mine subsidence. 

Disbursement

• Applied directly at the time of semi-annual billing for damages due to a declared federal or state disaster OR
• After submission of detailed expenses to re-establish water and sewer services. 
• Disbursement Request: OWDA Chief Engineer 

See the program guidlines for further information.

The Music Industry Mental Health Fund’s FireAid Grants aim to support music industry professionals and their families affected by the LA wildfires. By providing up to $2,000 for outpatient mental health services, along with recommendations for qualified providers and follow-up care, this initiative addresses the urgent need for mental health resources in the wake of personal loss and financial hardship. The fund emphasizes continuity of care to ensure that recipients receive comprehensive support as they navigate their recovery.

The Fayette County Community Foundation, part of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is dedicated to enhancing the welfare of Fayette County residents. It supports diverse initiatives including arts, education, health, and community betterment. Grants prioritize projects that address critical needs, foster collaboration, and promise sustainable benefits. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or government entities, with a focus on charitable projects that uplift the community. Funding is not available for operational costs or religious activities.

The Mortenson Family Foundation is dedicated to expanding opportunities for children and families living in poverty by promoting equitable access to education, social development, and mental health resources. By partnering with nonprofit organizations and public schools, the foundation aims to empower communities through culturally relevant learning practices and strong engagement with families. Their focus on racial equity and sustained support for children from prenatal to 18 years ensures a holistic approach to overcoming the barriers faced by underserved populations.

About The John A. Hartford Foundation

The John A. Hartford Foundation, based in New York City, is a private, nonpartisan, national philanthropy dedicated to improving the care of older adults. The leader in the field of aging and health, the foundation has three priority areas: creating age-friendly health systems, supporting family caregivers, and improving serious illness and end-of-life care.

Since 1982, The John A. Hartford Foundation has awarded more than $758 million in grants to enhance the health and well-being of older people.

JAHF New Partners Program Call for Proposals:

National Initiatives Advancing Improvements in Care for Older Adults

The John A. Hartford Foundation (JAHF) is entering a new chapter that builds on its work to improve care for older adults and support family caregivers while bringing new organizations, leaders and ideas into its community of grantees and partners.

Through this funding opportunity, JAHF is seeking proposals from organizations that have not previously received a major grant from the foundation.

Proposed initiatives must have a national or multi-site scope and align with at least one of the foundation's three priority areas:

• Age-Friendly Health Systems
• Family Caregiving
• Serious Illness and End-of-Life Care

South Carolina Department of Environmental Services

The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) is a team of environmental subject matter experts whose work impacts every South Carolinian, every day. We use science and data to drive our decisions and actions. Our work supports a resilient and sustainable South Carolina, and our efforts safeguard our air, land, water and coasts for generations to come.

Dam Repair Assistance Grant Program

Program Description

SCDES is soliciting applications from eligible applicants for pre-construction and construction efforts associated with dam repair and removal for eligible High and Significant Hazard dams regulated by the South Carolina Dams and Reservoirs Safety Act. This grant program aims to reduce or eliminate risk to the public by providing financial assistance for the repair or removal of High and Significant Hazard dams that fail to meet minimum dam safety standards and pose an unacceptable risk to downstream life and property.

The Dam Repair Assistance Grant Program aims to:

• Reduce or eliminate risk to the public associated with dams (see “Risk” in Definitions);
• Improve accessibility of financial assistance to dam owners who may not be eligible to apply for other dam safety grants; and,
• Provide financial assistance for the repair or removal of High and Significant Hazard dams that fail to meet minimum dam safety standards and pose an unacceptable risk to downstream life and property.

Competitive Community Grant- Civic & Economic Opportunities- Spring Cycle

Community members are aware of, engaged, and involved in issues that affect them.

We will support organizations that work to improve the following:

• Workforce development/job creation
• Support of hourly workers
• Open government
• Civic engagement
• Social and economic justice

Through direct service, policy advocacy and/or collaboration efforts, priority strategies will address:

• Improving access to employment opportunities and economic advancement by low-income and other disadvantaged community members
• Providing career counseling, job training, and other programs to low wage earners to advance their skills
• Encouraging residents to participate in leadership, policy, and funding decisions through workshops, public forums, and leadership training
• Support public policy, civic engagement, community organizing or public information to improve and strengthen local economy

Grant Sizes

We offer $5,000, $10,000, $15,000, or $20,000 general operating support depending on your annual budget:

• Organizations with an annual budget up to $50,000 may apply for a $5,000 grant;
• Organizations with an annual budget between $50,001 - $150,000 may apply for a $10,000 grant;
• Organizations with an annual budget between $150,001 - $500,000 may apply for a $15,000 grant; and
• Organizations with an annual budget of $500,001 or more may apply for a $20,000 grant.

The Foundation

In 1946, The Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation was established by Francis Cardinal Spellman to honor the legacy of Alfred Emanuel Smith, New York’s most renowned Catholic governor and the first Roman Catholic to run for President of the United States on a major party ticket.

Our Grants

The Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation grants support family services, education, and healthcare.

We understand that although life can be unfair, an investment in those who are less fortunate can help to level the playing field.

Grant Procedure

Founded in 1946 to honor the memory of renowned New York Governor and champion of the “little people,” Alfred Emanuel Smith, The Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation awards annual grants to organizations that bring hope and support to the poor, sick, and underprivileged within the Archdiocese of New York, regardless of race, creed, or color. Selected organizations are well-managed, financially stable, and propose projects that are worthy, purposeful, and clearly targeted. Charitable efforts are directed primarily toward organizations that serve:

Individuals facing physical, developmental, or emotional challenges who can achieve improved health and well-being through specialized medical and therapeutic services. 

Children and youth affected by poverty or other barriers who can reach their full potential through innovative educational programs and learning opportunities. 

Families and children in need of social support or foster care, whose stability, safety, and long-term prospects can be strengthened through targeted, outcome-driven services. 

Beginning Farmer Equipment and Infrastructure Grant

The intent of the Beginning Farmer Equipment and Infrastructure Grant program is to support new farmers in Minnesota to access equipment and develop infrastructure that will be crucial to the future of their farm business.

Through this grant, beginning farmers are able to pay for:

• Agriculture-specific equipment needed to grow crops, raise livestock or store the related farm products
• Farm infrastructure investments related to water access; irrigation; fencing; electricity; walk-in coolers; livestock handling; grain storage; production-related structures such as barns, livestock buildings, and greenhouses; and other farm infrastructure.

Funds available

This program is funded by the Minnesota Legislature.

For the Fiscal Year 2026/2027 program, the MDA expects to award approximately $700,000 through a competitive review process. The maximum award is $10,000 and the minimum award is $1,000. 

For proposals requesting up to $2,000, no match is required, 100% of the costs can be reimbursed. For proposals requesting more than $2,000, grantees may be reimbursed up to 75% of their costs up to $10,000. See Request for Proposals for details.

We expect to award between 70 and 95 of grants; however, the final number depends on the size of the awards and will be determined through the proposal review process.

The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation's Access to Healthcare Grant Program aims to enhance equitable access to healthcare across New York State. By addressing barriers faced by underserved populations, the foundation supports initiatives that ensure all individuals receive necessary health services. Grants typically begin at $75,000, focusing on direct service programs that align with the Catholic Church's ethical principles. This funding is crucial for organizations dedicated to improving healthcare outcomes for disadvantaged communities.

The Anne S. Richardson Fund Grants offer support for charitable purposes, focusing on organizations in Ridgefield, Connecticut. Funding priorities include initiatives that assist lower-income individuals, promote women's independence, support the LGBTQ+ community, foster youth development, and encourage environmental conservation. This fund, established in the mid-1960s, aims to enhance community wellbeing and is available to public charities classified under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS.

The ASSP Foundation Academic Scholarships provide vital financial support to students in environmental health and safety programs. With over $6 million awarded since 1990, the foundation aims to enhance career prospects through education and leadership development. In the 2024-2025 academic year, $215,000 was allocated to 117 recipients, fostering a sustainable talent pipeline in EHS. This initiative not only promotes the profession but also ensures a safer future for workers by encouraging new talent to enter the field.

The Members 1st Charitable Foundation Grant supports local grassroots organizations in South Central and Northeastern Pennsylvania, aiming to enhance their strength, health, and financial stability. Grants up to $10,000 are available each cycle, with a focus on initiatives in art, culture, education, financial literacy, health, wellness, and veterans' services. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and demonstrate good financial standing to qualify for funding.

The Rose Family Foundation Grant focuses on supporting initiatives in housing, workforce training, education, community development, and social services. Primarily serving the Dallas/Fort Worth area, this grant aims to empower local communities by funding projects that enhance quality of life and promote sustainable growth. Applicants are encouraged to explore the foundation's online resources to learn more about eligibility and application processes.

The Impact100 Newport County Grant supports local nonprofits addressing key focus areas such as Arts, Culture, and Historic Preservation, Environment, Recreation, and Animal Welfare, Health and Wellness, Education, and Family support. Eligible organizations must be a 501(c)(3) public charity, serve the Newport County area, and have at least three years of audited financial statements. This grant aims to enhance community well-being and promote sustainable development.

The Van Beuren Foundation provides program and project grants aimed at improving health, education, and community well-being, primarily in Newport County. Their funding priorities include supporting children and youth, enhancing community health, fostering economic growth, and promoting quality public spaces. They encourage innovative approaches and collaboration while welcoming proposals that benefit both local and broader communities. Organizations must demonstrate a clear impact on these priority areas to secure funding.