Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

Department of Health and Human Services

DHHS is the largest agency in New Hampshire state government, responsible for the health, safety and well-being of the citizens of New Hampshire. DHHS provides services for individuals, children, families and seniors, and administers programs and services such as mental health, developmental disability, substance misuse, and public health. This is accomplished through partnerships with families, community groups, private providers, other state and local government entities, and many citizens throughout the State who help make New Hampshire a special place in which to live.

RFP-2027-DPH-07-PROCD: Chronic Disease Prevention and Wellness Programs

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health (“Department”) is seeking responses to this Request for Proposals ("Solicitation" or "RFP") from qualified Vendors to provide comprehensive chronic disease and rural health program support, including coordination of projects and partner activities, development and delivery of educational trainings, implementation of evidence-based strategies, evaluation support, and communication activities that promote the prevention and management of chronic disease including asthma, cancer, diabetes, prediabetes, hypertension, and arthritis.

The Sustaining Environmental Systems Grant aims to ensure equitable access to healthy land and water for all Minnesotans. The Mortenson Family Foundation supports community-led environmental solutions and multi-year grants to partner organizations. It prioritizes partnerships that focus on sustainability, racial justice, and community engagement, fostering innovative approaches to restore relationships with nature and address climate change impacts. The foundation seeks organizations that can deliver tangible environmental outcomes while empowering historically marginalized communities.

The Innovative Technology for Harmful Algal Blooms Grant supports local governments and nonprofit organizations in Florida to implement innovative solutions for combating harmful algal blooms. Projects may focus on nutrient reduction, algae removal, or improving monitoring techniques. Key funding considerations include the scalability of technology and its environmental safety. Eligible areas are those with a history of algal blooms and a management action plan in place, ensuring the greatest impact on water quality.

Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants support projects focusing on water stewardship across the Great Lakes watershed. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, eligible organizations can apply for funding to improve ecosystem health, enhance public health through better water resource management, and promote resilience against climate-related water risks. This initiative highlights Bell's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support in all 50 states and DC.

Northern Trust

Guided by our founding principles of service, expertise and integrity, we are passionate experts from around the globe who turn ideas into action to help the world’s most successful individuals, families and institutions achieve their goals.

Since 1889, when our founder Byron Smith built Northern Trust on our enduring principles, we have shown time and again that we exist to serve not only clients, but also the community at large.

Corporate social responsibility and philanthropy are essential elements of our mission and culture. Driven by our strategic focus on diversity, equity and inclusion, community engagement and environmental sustainability, we strive to be socially accountable – to ourselves, our stakeholders and the public.

The Northern Trust Foundation Grants

Increasing access to essential human needs will broaden opportunities for Chicago's young people and support them in fulfilling their potential and achieving long-term financial success. The Northern Trust Foundation is focusing its funding on communities in Chicago's South and West Sides by providing general operating support and program grants that specifically target youth ages 16-24.

Funding Priorities & Objectives

Northern Trust prioritizes the following areas to help low-income youth ages 16-24 on Chicago’s South and West sides.

Food Security: Youth who experience food insecurity are more likely to struggle in school and face both mental and physical health challenges. We prioritize funding for programs that:

• Increase access to, awareness of, and participation in free food distribution programs and services
• Raise awareness of, and increase participation in, state and federal nutrition assistance programs (e.g., SNAP, WIC, Summer Food Service Program, etc.)
• Increase access to affordable, nutritious foods for purchase, particularly within food deserts, and leverage innovative solutions to address the issue of access to food

Affordable Housing: Stable housing can serve as the foundation for a secure future. We prioritize funding to organizations assisting people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness with access to safe and permanent housing through programs that:

• Support youth experiencing homelessness and help navigate and access services available in their local communities with a goal of getting them into permanent housing
• Assist low-income college students by providing supportive services and affordable housing
• Provide temporary or permanent free/affordable housing options for youth; highest priority will be given to programs that focus on moving youth efficiently into permanent housing solutions
• Provide housing-related case management, foster care or other services to youth who are living in unsafe or unstable home environments including LBGTQ+ and youth transitioning out of the foster care system

Educational Excellence: Low-income youth attend and complete college at a much lower rate than their peers. We prioritize funding for programs that support students “to and through” college (including trade schools) and specifically focus on removing barriers for low-income youth that:

• Focus on academic readiness, including college-level coursework during high school, and high school completion with an emphasis on post-secondary school enrollment
• Support post-secondary school persistence, including those that focus on alternatives to remedial coursework
• Assist students through the college search, application and enrollment process, ensuring students ultimately are admitted to, enroll in and attend schools which are a good match and fit for their individual needs
• Provide access to financial aid for low-income youth and/or provide ongoing financial planning and credit building for students and their families, to ensure students complete their post-secondary education

Accessible Healthcare: The transition from child to adult healthcare is a greater challenge for low-income individuals. We prioritize funding to hospitals, healthcare centers and community organizations providing physical or mental healthcare that:

• Provide access to physical or mental healthcare for free or at a sliding scale
• Provide primary and preventative care, including health screenings for young women
• Focus on providing solutions that remove common barriers to care among this population (e.g., telehealth visits, pop-up clinics, after-hours appointments, etc.)
• Raise awareness and provide education of healthcare services and/or Medicaid and assist this population to apply for and access Medicaid

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

Aquatic Invasive Species Control – Large or Small-Scale Population Management

(See page 31 of attatched PDF)

When an established population of aquatic invasive species is having adverse effects on a waterbody or wetland, funding is available for control activities. Managing aquatic invasive species can be challenging, but adaptive and integrated pest management can help. Participation in the large- or small-scale control program requires an approved recommendation in an aquatic plant or aquatic invasive species management plan. Eligible projects will implement one or more of the resulting recommendations. Public access required, unless controlling a prohibited species.

DNR cost share: Grants may cover up to 75% of total project costs.

The AIS Population Management Grant includes Small-Scale Population Management Projects and Large-Scale Population Management Projects.

Small-Scale Population Management Projects

Small-Scale Population Management projects will maintain a low abundance of one or more aquatic invasive species populations or further reduce their size. Projects should implement management activities with the goal of continued suppression of the target species where the actions are unlikely to affect the entire lake, stream reach or wetland. Projects should be designed to result in long-term, multi-season suppression of one or more established populations of the target species.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

Aquatic Invasive Species Control – Large or Small-Scale Population Management

(See page 31 of attatched PDF)

When an established population of aquatic invasive species is having adverse effects on a waterbody or wetland, funding is available for control activities. Managing aquatic invasive species can be challenging, but adaptive and integrated pest management can help. Participation in the large- or small-scale control program requires an approved recommendation in an aquatic plant or aquatic invasive species management plan. Eligible projects will implement one or more of the resulting recommendations. Public access required, unless controlling a prohibited species.

DNR cost share: Grants may cover up to 75% of total project costs.

The AIS Population Management Grant includes Small-Scale Population Management Projects and Large-Scale Population Management Projects.

Large-Scale Population Management Projects

Large-Scale Population Management projects will result in long-term, multi-season suppression of one or more established populations of aquatic invasive species. Projects are large in scale, affecting a substantial portion of a lake, stream reach, or wetland.

Projects that address multiple populations across a region should employ a strategic approach to managing multiple populations, prioritizing control actions in a way that ensures wise spending of grant funds. For example, a regional wetland control project might focus on populations that threaten high-functioning natural wetlands or focus on small, more easily controlled populations. For Phragmites-focused projects seeking AIS planning and control grant funds, please see the Phragmites Statewide Management Strategy for more specific guidance.

The William P. Wharton Trust Grant supports projects that align with the vision of its patron, focusing on tangible outcomes. It prioritizes land conservation efforts that protect natural resources over recreational use. The Trust aims to leverage funds for impactful environmental initiatives and encourages collaboration among organizations. Eligible applicants include public charities and governmental units, while grants are limited to direct project costs. Notably, the Trust avoids funding for overhead, construction, and educational programs for youth below college level.

The Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy Proposition 4 Grant Program aims to enhance climate resilience through nature-based solutions in conservation lands. It supports projects focused on habitat restoration, wildfire risk reduction, and improving public access to outdoor recreation. Priority is given to initiatives benefiting disadvantaged communities and those that align with California's 30x30 conservation goals. Funding is provided through the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024.

The Ordinance Development Projects grant, offered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, supports the creation of local regulations aimed at benefiting surface water. Eligible activities include ordinance text development, legal work, compliance training, and outreach efforts. Applicants must submit a pre-application by September 15 and a full proposal by November 15, along with a letter of support from the implementing government unit, promoting sustainable management of Wisconsin's natural resources.

The John K. and Luise V. Hanson Foundation, established in 1970, focuses on enhancing community quality of life in north central Iowa. With over $72 million in assets, the foundation has awarded $64 million to nearly 1,000 organizations, supporting arts, culture, family recreation, and youth education. Their mission emphasizes innovative projects that strengthen families, with a commitment to community engagement and philanthropic ties to the Mayo Clinic, ensuring a lasting positive impact.

The Provident Bank Foundation's Empowerment Grant focuses on uplifting marginalized communities by providing flexible funding for initiatives that promote economic self-sufficiency. With grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 over two years, the program supports organizations in education, human services, and workforce development. Eligible applicants must demonstrate meaningful community impact and align with the Foundation's funding priorities, which include promoting quality education, social safety nets, and career development opportunities.

The Youth Opportunities Program (YOP) aims to enhance community engagement and positive development for youth under 21 years old through public-private partnerships. Administered by the Missouri Department of Economic Development, YOP offers tax credits to eligible donors, facilitating funding for local projects that promote self-esteem and reduce youth violence, particularly in high-crime areas. With $6 million in credits available, YOP prioritizes initiatives that foster community-based solutions for youth.

The Mighty Money Mini Grant from the AWS Foundation aims to empower individuals with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities in Northeast Indiana. By providing quick funding to 501(c)(3) organizations, this initiative supports innovative ideas that enhance community inclusion, education, and accessibility. The grant focuses on initiatives such as social enrichment, education, transportation, early diagnosis, and housing, ensuring that these individuals can live independently and thrive within their communities.

The Medical Research Grants program offers funding of up to $25,000 for Resubmission Grants aimed at enhancing NIH proposals that were previously scored in the top 50% but not funded. These grants support various research areas, including infectious diseases and cancer, and are particularly focused on junior faculty within Rhode Island's academic and hospital institutions. The funding can cover costs such as data gathering and equipment, but not salary support.

The WDNR Surface Water Grants support organizations in managing surface water through various stages, from planning to implementation. Eligible applicants, including lake associations and conservation organizations, can access funding for education, planning, and management projects aimed at improving water quality and combating invasive species. Key deadlines include May 1 for eligibility inquiries, September 15 for pre-applications, and November 15 for full proposals. These grants reflect the DNR's commitment to sustainable resource management in Wisconsin.

The CFNGA Catholic Community Grants support nonprofits, parishes, and Catholic schools within the Archdiocese of Atlanta. These grants are funded through endowments specifically established for grant-giving, with amounts varying by cycle. Non-Catholic organizations can apply if their mission aligns with Catholic teachings. The grants aim to foster a thriving Catholic community by providing necessary resources to serve both current and future generations.

The Sustaining Impact Grant from the Fund for the Arts provides essential operating support to arts organizations that enhance community vitality and engagement. Eligible returning applicants, having met prior reporting requirements, can apply via the online portal. The grant focuses on community impact, engagement, and sustainable operations, with funding levels based on annual revenues, ensuring that organizations can continue to thrive and contribute to the arts ecosystem.

The TX AmeriCorps Planning Grant, managed by OneStar, aims to address Texas's social challenges through national service. Engaging over 3,200 AmeriCorps members across 33 organizations, it focuses on disaster services, economic opportunity, education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, and support for veterans. This initiative enhances community resilience, improves lives, and fosters civic engagement by directing resources effectively to those in need, contributing to a stronger, more interconnected Texas.

Bristol Myers Squibb is dedicated to enhancing healthcare and advancing scientific knowledge through its Corporate Giving program. By supporting various organizations, BMS aims to improve health equity and access to essential medicines for underserved populations. Their focus includes charitable donations, medical education, and community support initiatives. This commitment reflects BMS's goal to make a positive impact on patients' lives and foster strong communities where their employees work and live.

Transformative Care Model

Accelerator Partners (Now Open)

The Accelerator Partner Program is proposed as support for hospitals or other organizations in rural regions that demonstrate strong readiness and commitment to implement the CalRHT Transformative Care Model (TCM) through regional care collaboratives and hub-and-spoke relationships which will seek to strengthen primary and maternity care in rural parts of the state.  

Accelerator Partners will strengthen TCM performance metrics in their service areas while serving as testing sites for innovative care models and evidence-based approaches. Accelerator Partners will demonstrate how integrated service delivery can strengthen access, quality, and sustainability in rural communities.

Lessons learned from these Accelerator Partners will inform statewide scaling and continuous improvement of the regional care collaboratives and hub-and-spoke framework in future years.

CDBG Construction Grants

Overview

Funding for all Community Development Block Grant programs is provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and administered by the Office of Community and Rural Affairs. The State of Indiana distributes CDBG funds to rural communities to support a range of projects, including infrastructure enhancement, downtown revitalization, improvements to public facilities, and economic development initiatives.

The state CDBG program offers competitive grants to units of local government to support rural areas. Within the CDBG program, there are five types of Construction Grants designed to enhance community resilience and livability:

• Blight Clearance
• Main Street Revitalization
• Public Facilities
• Stormwater Improvements
• Wastewater/Drinking Water

Main Street Revitalization

The Main Street Revitalization Program (MSRP) is designed to empower rural communities in their efforts to build vibrant, sustainable environments and enhance overall quality of life.

Eligible projects include:

• Traffic Control or Pedestrian Safety
• Functional Art
• ADA Improvements
• Sidewalk Rehabilitation or Addition
• Signage or Utility Relocation for Accessibility
• Pavers
• Water Management
• Energy Efficiency (LED Traffic Lights or Signals)
• Alley Activation

To be eligible, applicants must have a designated Indiana Main Street organization that meets one of the following qualifications:

• National Accreditation through the National Main Street Center (NAMS), or
• Indiana Accredited Main Street (IAMS) status with at least three years of active designation
• Be in good standing with the Indiana Mainstreet Program requirements

Grant awards are based on the proposed project cost, as outlined below.

• Projects over $2 million in total project cost may received a grant up to $600,000
• Projects under $2 million in total project cost may received a grant up to $500,000
• A local match of 20% of the total project cost is required for funding consideration.

CDBG funds will be awarded at a rate of $5,000 per project beneficiary.

The Anna May Family Foundation, established in 1999, aims to support organizations in southern Oregon that assist economically disadvantaged individuals, particularly focusing on children, women, elders, and minorities. The foundation prioritizes grants addressing urgent needs, such as abuse victims, at-risk children, and those requiring emergency services. However, it does not fund individuals, completed projects, or operational costs, ensuring that its contributions are directed towards impactful initiatives in the community.

The Healthy Lives Grant Program by The New York Community Trust aims to enhance health services for older adults and individuals with disabilities in New York City. It focuses on creating an equitable healthcare system by supporting projects that improve access to care, reduce health disparities, and empower individuals through skill development. The program prioritizes innovative solutions that foster independence and community engagement, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive comprehensive support tailored to their needs.

The Pooled Monitoring Initiative’s Restoration Research Award Program, led by the Chesapeake Bay Trust and various partners, aims to address critical restoration questions hindering watershed restoration efforts. By funding targeted research, the initiative seeks to enhance confidence in project outcomes, optimize restoration techniques, and provide valuable insights for regulatory agencies. This collaborative effort pools resources to tackle pressing research queries and ensure effective monitoring and restoration practices in the Chesapeake Bay area.

The Joseph Kennard Skilling Trust Grant supports social welfare agencies in Philadelphia, enhancing community welfare through targeted programs. Established in 1963 by Joseph Kennard Skilling, the trust embodies his lifelong commitment to philanthropy. The foundation prioritizes effective programs, professional management, and community needs, while favoring organizations that assist vulnerable populations. Eligible nonprofit organizations under Section 501(c)(3) are encouraged to apply, particularly those addressing issues like elder care, youth at risk, and rehabilitation of the homeless.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is offering $1.6 million in planning grants for climate resilience projects across Minnesota. These funds aim to help communities assess vulnerabilities related to stormwater management, wastewater systems, and public services in the face of climate change. This initiative supports local efforts to enhance resilience, reduce flood risks, and adapt to changing environmental conditions, ensuring healthier communities and sustainable natural resources.