Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

The State Library of Ohio offers competitive grants under the Library Services and Technology Act to support innovative projects that enhance library services. Eligible applicants include public, school, academic, and special libraries, which must provide a 25% local cash match. Projects should focus on community engagement, literacy enhancement, or innovative outreach strategies. Funding up to $50,000 is available to foster creative solutions addressing community needs as outlined in the LSTA Five Year Plan 2023-2027.

The Vanguard

Remuseum announces The Vanguard, an award and accelerator for innovative leaders in the visual and performing arts, in partnership with the Doris Duke Foundation. The Vanguard’s $100,000 annual award will recognize up to ten leaders who are exploring new ways to strengthen arts institutions, and a year-long accelerator will help them refine, implement, and evaluate their ideas. The first award and accelerator of its kind, The Vanguard celebrates leaders who are ready to center the public in their work in new ways, building models for increased relevance and sustainability in the arts.

The Program

The $100,000 grant that accompanies each award will go to that leader’s institution, to support ideas developed in The Vanguard’s 12-month accelerator program. That program begins with a week-long retreat at Shangri La, the Doris Duke Foundation’s global center for culture and ideas in Honolulu, Hawaii, followed by a year of monthly coaching sessions, regional peer gatherings, and collaborative workshops, culminating in a public presentation of their work and findings to the broader arts community. The accelerator and its curriculum, tailored specifically for cultural leaders, has been designed by Jenny Larios Berlin, entrepreneur in the creative and tech sectors and Lecturer at MIT Sloan School of Management, and will be co-taught with Gregory Bunch, entrepreneur and Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and will be advised by Ethernet Inventors Professor of Entrepreneurship Bill Aulet, Managing Director of the Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship.

By year’s end, members of The Vanguard will have built an intellectual kinship with each other while modeling a spirit of innovative leadership for the field. Remuseum will continue evaluating and sharing their work as case studies for cultural organizations broadly, and future classes will continue expanding a Vanguard of leaders (10, then 20, and on) who build models of success for cultural organizations in the 21st Century, allowing arts & cultural institutions not just to survive but to support a stronger and more pluralistic civil society.

The Metropolitan Atlanta Arts Fund, managed by the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, aims to bolster independent arts organizations with annual budgets under $2 million. The fund supports initiatives that enhance public access to diverse cultural programming, fostering community engagement in the arts. Eligible organizations must be arts-focused, financially stable, and based in specific Georgia counties, while prioritizing equitable access for marginalized groups, particularly BIPOC-led organizations.

The Brockport Arts Fund, supported by the Rochester Area Community Foundation, aims to enhance the cultural landscape of Brockport in 2025. This initiative focuses on funding performing arts events and public art installations that benefit both residents and visitors, promoting community engagement and artistic expression. By aligning with the Foundation's mission of supporting equity and vibrant neighborhoods, the fund seeks to create a lasting impact through accessible and inclusive arts programming.

The Local Share Account (LSA) program in Northampton and Lehigh Counties provides funding for economic and community development projects as mandated by Act 71. These funds support initiatives that enhance public interest and stimulate growth in the region. Eligible projects include those that foster business development and improve community infrastructure, ensuring that the local population benefits from the investments made. The program aims to utilize gaming revenue to support valuable public services.

The Community Development Block Grant Disaster Response Program in Illinois provides vital funding to assist communities facing urgent threats to public health and safety due to disasters. Grants, capped at $250,000, support initiatives that benefit low-to-moderate income individuals or address significant community needs. Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the program emphasizes enhancing economic development, improving infrastructure, and ensuring safe living conditions for all residents.

The Elk Rapids Area Community Endowment offers Fall Grant Opportunities to support various community programs in Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau counties. Established in 1996, this fund aims to enhance the local quality of life through projects focusing on education, environment, health, and public services. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and governmental entities. Grants can fund landscaping, transportation to healthcare, and other beneficial projects.

RFP: Improve Access to Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)

The Minnesota Department of Human Services, through its Behavioral Health Administration (STATE), is seeking Proposals from qualified Responders to improve access to medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) services throughout Minnesota. 

STATE received a State Opioid Response (SOR) grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA). The purpose of the SOR grant is to address the public health crisis caused by escalating opioid and stimulant use, Opioid Use Disorder (OUD), Stimulant Use Disorder, and opioid and stimulant-related morbidity and mortality across the nation. Minnesota has been awarded SOR funds since the grant program’s inception by SAMHSA in 2018. Multiple organizations and projects have been funded to support a continuum of care including prevention programming, treatment, MOUD, naloxone distribution, and recovery support services

Massachusetts Nonprofit Security Grant Program (MA)

This program provides funding for nonprofit 501(c) (3) organizations (such as faith-based institutions, medical and health care facilities, and other human service entities) to competitively solicit one-time grant funding to enhance building safety and security for its members/visitors and staff. 

Priority will be given to applicants demonstrating the greatest need (experienced threats and/or incidents of terrorism or hate crimes known or believed to be related to their nonprofit organization’s purpose, mission, or services), and propose cost-effective solutions to address high-priority security gaps or weaknesses.

Organizations who have received funding through similar programs offered through the Office of Grants and Research are eligible and encouraged to apply. Funding for this opportunity is supported by the Federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

Funding

Applicants may solicit up to $75,000 in funding under this competitive grant. 

The Portland Arts & Culture General Operating Support program provides essential funding for local arts organizations that enhance the cultural ecosystem of the city. With a focus on accessibility, these grants support a wide range of activities including community events and arts education. Eligible organizations must be based in Portland, hold IRS 501(c)(3) status, and demonstrate a commitment to serving diverse communities. Over 1.5 million attendees benefit from these programs annually, bolstering the local economy.

The Arthur F. and Alice E. Adams Charitable Foundation, established in 1985, supports various charitable initiatives focusing on arts, culture, humanities, and education. It primarily benefits organizations in Memphis, Miami, and New York City. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) exempt organizations and seek project sponsorships. The foundation does not fund general operating costs or capital campaigns, and requests over $50,000 are generally discouraged. Proposals must be for projects commencing at least a year after submission.

Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) 

Founded in 1967, the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) is a national community of academic leaders committed to developing an accomplished family medicine workforce, prepared to serve as the foundation of America’s health care system. Our members include physicians, PAs, nurse practitioners, behavioral health specialists, researchers, pharmacists, nurses and other health care professionals, health system executives, administrators, coordinators, fellows, residents, students, and others involved in the education of family physicians. 

Curtis G. Hames Research Award

The Curtis G. Hames Research Award honors those individuals whose careers over the years exemplify dedication to research in family medicine. The award recipient is selected by a committee representing STFM, the Association of Departments of Family Medicine, and the North American Primary Care Research Group. This award is supported by the Department of Family Medicine through the MCG Foundation's Hames Endowment of the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University.  

The Dual Enrolled Students Academic Pathways program, initiated by the Illinois Community College Board, aims to enhance educational outcomes for Illinois students, particularly first-generation and low-income students. By implementing a comprehensive support program across community colleges and K-12 districts, the initiative seeks to align educational programming with labor market demands, ensuring students receive vital support during their transition from high school to college. This collaborative effort is designed to boost dual credit and enrollment outcomes statewide.

The FY 2027 Continuation of Solicitation invites applications to support various program areas, including Advanced Scientific Computing, Basic Energy Sciences, Fusion Energy Sciences, and more. This annual open solicitation from the Department of Energy (DOE) allows research proposals throughout the fiscal year. Applications must align with SC's mission and can be submitted until September 30, 2027, or until a new solicitation is issued. Detailed submission processes are outlined in 10 C.F.R. part 605.

The LRAC Career Development Grants offer $2,000 to individual artists in various disciplines within a nine-county region. These grants support projects that enhance artistic growth and career development. Eligible applicants include practicing artists aged 18 and older, who have resided in the region for at least six months. Projects must be focused on fine arts and cannot commence before the grant contract is signed. For more details, refer to the LRAC guidelines.

Background

As authorized under Title I, Part C of the Every Student Succeeds Act, the Office of Continuous Improvement and Support, Division of School and Program Improvement, is issuing a Request for Application (RFA) from local educational agencies,  educational cooperatives  or public universities/colleges to develop and implement technical assistance and professional learning programs that facilitate the educational and support services needed for identified migrant children and their families. 

Purpose

As stated in Section 1301 of the Every Student Succeeds Act, the purpose of the Migrant Education Program  (MEP) is to:

• Assist States in supporting high-quality and comprehensive educational programs and services during the school year and, as applicable, during summer or intersession periods, that address the unique educational needs of migratory children;
• To ensure that migratory children who move among the States are not penalized in any manner by disparities among the States in curriculum, graduation requirements, and challenging State academic standards;
• To ensure that migratory children receive full and appropriate opportunities to meet the same challenging State academic standards that all children are expected to meet;
• To help migratory children overcome educational disruption, cultural and language barriers, social isolation, various health-related problems, and other factors that inhibit the ability of such children to succeed in school; and
• To help migratory children benefit from State and local systemic reforms.

Funding

The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) anticipates funding up to four migrant regional center programs at up to $325,000 per year per regional center. KDE reserves the right to negotiate annually the amount based on the regional center's sub-contracts with LEAs and any identified unanticipated needs within the region.  The funds generated by the LEA will be included in the negotiation for the regional center.

Upon expiration of the initial term, at KDE's discretion, the contract may be renewed for up to 2 additional 1-year periods if it is in the best interest of the Kentucky Migrant Education Program and its eligible students to do so.

The Maryland Grow Your Own Educators Grant Program aims to create a sustainable teacher pipeline by recruiting local school employees to become licensed teachers. This initiative supports collaboration between school systems, employee organizations, and higher education institutions. Grant funds cover essential costs such as tuition and mentoring. Participants commit to teaching in high-needs areas for three years, helping to address educational inequities and strengthen community ties within Maryland's diverse educational landscape.

About the Montana Arts Council

The Montana Arts Council is the agency of state government established to develop the creative potential of all Montanans, advance education, spur economic vibrancy, and revitalize communities through involvement in the arts. The Montana Arts Council is governed by 15 individuals appointed by the Governor. It is funded by the state and federal government.

Strategic Investment Grants

Strategic Investment Grants (SIG) provide up to $1000 for expenses related to opportunities for professional development, market expansion, and art events. SIG enables artists and teachers to advance their professional careers and supports nonprofit organizations in the advancement of arts-related programs.

SIG supports a wide variety of arts-related activities and opportunities:

• Attendance at workshops, trainings, residencies, or conferences
• Exhibiting at trade shows, gallery showings conferences, festivals, or other art events
• Public outreach and marketing for events or publications
• Expansion of online presence or entry into new online marketplaces
• Performances, public art installations, demonstrations, or exhibitions
• Investments in technology or tools that represent a clear step forward professionally

Application Type: Artist or Organization

Both individual artists--or groups of artists--and Montana 501(c)(3) organizations are eligible to apply for Strategic Investment Grants. Artists and organizations will be directed to separate applications and will be evaluated according to different criteria.

Organizations

The SIG program supports organizations (arts organizations or organizations with demonstrated arts programming) by enabling them to take advantage of opportunities to enhance their mission or better serve their communities. Example expenses the grant will reimburse include:

• Travel or entry fees associated with professional development for staff including workshops, conferences, or trainings
• Preparation, freight and shipping costs for materials
• Materials to complete work scheduled for public art, gallery exhibition, performance or publication
• Professional fees and services for marketing, outreach, event production, or documenting an event
• Fees for equipment, instruments or facility that are integral to the opportunity

State Homeland Security Program – Competitive National Priority Area Projects

The purpose of this announcement is to solicit applications for projects that support state and local efforts to prevent terrorism and targeted violence and prepare for the threats and hazards that pose the greatest risk to the security of Texas citizens. The Office of the Governor (OOG), Public Safety Office (PSO) provides funding to implement investments that build, sustain, and deliver the 32 core capabilities essential to achieving a secure and resilient state. Funding under this announcement will be awarded on a competitive basis for projects supporting FEMA designated SHSP National Priority Areas.

This funding supports state, tribal and local preparedness activities that address national and state-priority preparedness gaps across selected core capabilities where a nexus to terrorism exists. All investments must be consistent with capability targets set during the Threat and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (THIRA) process, and gaps identified in the Stakeholder Preparedness Review (SPR).

The State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) is intended to support investments that improve the ability of jurisdictions to:

• Prevent a threatened or actual act of terrorism;
• Protect its citizens, residents, visitors, and assets against the greatest threats and hazards;
• Mitigate the loss of life and property by lessening the impact of future catastrophic events;
• Respond quickly to save lives, protect property and the environment, and meet basic human needs in the aftermath of a catastrophic incident; and/or
• Recover through a focus on the timely restoration, strengthening, accessibility and revitalization of infrastructure, housing, and a sustainable economy, as well as the health, social, cultural, historic, and environmental fabric of communities affected by a catastrophic incident.

Many activities which support the achievement of target capabilities related to terrorism preparedness may simultaneously support enhanced preparedness for other hazards unrelated to acts of terrorism. However, all SHSP projects must assist grantees in achieving target capabilities related to preventing, preparing for, protecting against, or responding to acts of terrorism.

Funding Levels

Minimum: $10,000

Maximum: None.

PSO expects to set-aside at least 3% of available SHSP funding for projects under this funding announcement.

Match Requirement: None

The Heather Hinkle Memorial Endowed Scholarship Fund, established by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports college students from the Texas Panhandle who have faced significant health challenges. Eligible applicants must have completed a quarter of their degree, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and have received a cancer diagnosis before turning 18. This scholarship aims to empower students pursuing further education in the medical field, fostering resilience and academic success in the community.

The Medical Funds Grant, administered by the Seattle Foundation, aims to support medical research and address healthcare needs for low-income children. It prioritizes funding for specific equipment requests related to cancer, cardio-pulmonary diseases, and other significant health conditions. Additionally, it supports capital campaigns and facility renovations that enhance healthcare accessibility for underprivileged youth. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt charities based in King County, with updated organizational profiles.

The Community Catalyst Building Remediation Program, administered by the Iowa Economic Development Authority, aims to revitalize communities by funding the rehabilitation and redevelopment of buildings. Grants of up to $100,000 are available to enhance economic growth, improve safety, and utilize underused properties. Eligible applicants include cities, which must demonstrate potential for job creation and increased property values. This competitive program prioritizes projects that exhibit strong community impact and design standards.

The Association of Information Technology Professionals Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports residents of the Texas Panhandle who intend to pursue studies in Computer Information Systems or Computer Science at West Texas A&M University or Amarillo College. Applicants must complete a general scholarship application and meet specific eligibility criteria, ensuring they are enrolled full-time and maintain a minimum GPA. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities and improve community outcomes.

The L. Ray Vahue Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports City of Amarillo employees and their families. This scholarship allows recipients to apply annually, ensuring continued educational support. The foundation aims to enhance the quality of life for residents of the Texas Panhandle by addressing educational needs. Eligible applicants must complete the foundation's General Scholarship Application and maintain enrollment requirements, fostering academic success within the community.

OnPoint Community Credit Union offers community grants aimed at supporting organizations aligned with their focus areas of Economic Opportunity and Community Vitality. Established in 1932, OnPoint is Oregon's largest credit union and is committed to community engagement through grants for programmatic and general operating support. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities located within the OnPoint region of Oregon and SW Washington. One grant request per organization is allowed annually.

About Grow Boston

GrowBoston is the City of Boston's Office of Urban Agriculture, and part of the Mayor's Office of Housing (MOH). MOH has been supporting the development of community gardens, urban farms, food forests, and other open spaces for more than 25 years through the Grassroots Program, which is now part of GrowBoston. GrowBoston works to increase community gardens, urban farms, and other food-growing spaces throughout Boston; support innovative food production strategies; provide technical assistance to prospective and existing gardens and farms; develop resources for gardeners, farmers, and other residents; and coordinate with other City departments associated with food production in Boston.

GrowBoston Garden Supplies Grant

GrowBoston is offering a total of $50,000.00 for community gardens, nonprofit gardens that are communally operated, and food forests to purchase tools, equipment, seeds, seedlings, compost, equipment, and other garden supplies for communal use. These supplies must be stored and maintained by the garden organization and made available to all gardeners. The public purpose of this grant program is to invest in Boston’s community gardens and food forests and assist residents to grow their own food. 

Total Amount Available for Grant Program:

• $50,000.00

Award Amount per Grant per Organization:

• Organizations may apply for a maximum of $2,000 per garden site or food forest. If an organization wishes to purchase supplies for multiple sites, they may. 

The City of Covington's Neighborhood Grant Program offers up to $5,000 to neighborhood groups for projects aimed at enhancing community appearance and social cohesion. This competitively awarded program emphasizes a simple application process for funding beautification initiatives, blight removal, and special events. By fostering local engagement, it aims to create vibrant, connected neighborhoods that reflect the community's identity and pride.