Best Public Policy Grants in Utah

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

Utah State Board of Education

The Utah State Board of Education (USBE) is a constitutionally established, elected, partisan body that exercises general control and supervision over the public education system in Utah, including establishing the state educational core standards, state educator licensing policies, and state high school graduation requirements.

Education Innovation Program

Under House Bill (H.B) 386: Education Innovation Program (Utah State Legislature), individual classrooms can apply to their Local Education Agency (LEA) to approve an alternative classroom schedule or alternative curriculum and award up to $5,000 per class for the school year. All approvals are done at the local level, however; ULEAD can assist in developing a monitoring plan and collects evidence concerning the innovation after the class is complete. ULEAD can assist those applying to their LEA to formulate their plan, can advise on monitoring components, and serves as a pass through for approved plans from the LEA to access the financial awards. 

Types of Innovation Programs

Under H.B. 386, LEAs may approve alternative classroom schedules or alternative curriculum.

Alternative Classroom Schedule means a classroom schedule that is different than the schedule followed by other classrooms in the applicable school or LEA. Proposals may include options for different requirements of provisions for length of attendance for in-person, virtual, or hybrid instruction.

Alternative Curriculum means curriculum in one or more subject areas that is based on standards that are different than the standards adopted by the state board and applicable to the regular curriculum offered in the subject area(s) in the applicable school or LEA. In elementary school this includes English, mathematics, science, or history and social science. An innovation program application that proposes an alternative curriculum may include a proposal for a different curriculum or an innovative delivery of curriculum.

Innovative program proposals may include an alternative schedule or alternative curriculum, or proposals may include both.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The JFLA Mini Grant for Japanese Arts & Culture Program supports projects aimed at enhancing the understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for qualifying nonprofit organizations. Eligible projects must occur in the 13 states west of the Rocky Mountains and focus on fostering U.S.-Japan collaborations through various artistic mediums. Notably, applicants must be designated 501(c)(3) organizations and adhere to specific funding guidelines.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

The Hansen Family Foundation Grant seeks to empower organizations that uphold the American values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Focused on diverse causes like children, education, animals, environmental conservation, humanitarian efforts, and arts, the foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that create positive change. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while political campaigns and organizations with high budgets or overheads are ineligible. This grant fosters impactful contributions to society.

The Byrne Family Foundation Trust (BFFT) launched the Fast Track Grants Program to address urgent community needs in Dallas, Texas, and Park City, Utah. Initiated in 2022, this program enables organizations to apply for quick funding without reporting requirements, ensuring funds are distributed within the same month. BFFT focuses on educational and animal welfare projects, prioritizing initiatives that enhance educational opportunities and support domestic animals, thereby promoting equity and community wellbeing.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

Insperity's Corporate Contributions program emphasizes community involvement and corporate citizenship, providing philanthropic grants and event sponsorships to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Eligible organizations must engage Insperity employees or contribute to the communities where they operate. The program aims to support nonprofits in achieving their service goals and enhancing community welfare. Applications must be submitted 90 days prior to events, and funding requests can be made once a year.

Utah State Board of Education

The Utah State Board of Education (USBE) is a constitutionally established, elected, partisan body that exercises general control and supervision over the public education system in Utah, including establishing the state educational core standards, state educator licensing policies, and state high school graduation requirements.

Prevention Block Grant

During the 2023 General Legislative Session, House Bill (H.B.) 16 Block Grant Funding for Prevention Programs in Public Education was passed allowing local education agencies (LEAs) to braid grant funding attached to the following sections of Code:

• Title 53G-9-702 - Suicide Prevention
• Title 53G-10-407 - Positive Behaviors Plan – Positive Behavior Specialist Stipend
• Title 53E-3-522 - Substance Abuse Prevention

It is the intent of the block grant to ensure that the requirements of each of the individual programs are honored, while allowing for LEAs to have the flexibility they need to have greater impact on students. As prevention funds are braided, LEAs will have the ability to intentionally target shared risk and protective factors while providing higher leverage, evidence-based practices that will have a greater reach and impact.

H.B. 16 (2023) also allows USBE to distribute excess funds in the Underage Drinking and Substance Abuse Prevention Program Restricted Account to LEAs through the prevention block grant. These funds are only available through the Block Grant.

LEAs who choose not to opt into the Prevention Block Grant Application may still apply for Substance Use Prevention funds within this same application.

Awarded funds are intended for tier 1 and tier 2 prevention activities and may be used for the following:

• Implementation of the comprehensive prevention plan.

Utah Code Section Title 53F-2-525: Block grant funding for prevention programs in public education

• Prevention-focused parent seminars.

Utah Code Section Title 53G-9-703: Parent education -- Mental health -- Bullying -- Safety

• To supplement specific prevention needs identified by the LEA and that can be justified through data.
• Other evidence-based prevention practices authorized by USBE.
• Prevention Science professional learning.
• Supplies and materials related to implementing prevention programs.

Please be aware that Prevention Block Grant funding is primarily meant for Tier 1 and Tier 2 prevention activities. Block Grant Funding is not intended to be used for mental health treatment services for students, or school safety needs (including school guardians and fire detection software). Funding is not intended to be used for mental health treatment services for students, or school safety needs (including school guardians and fire detection software). All funding requests must support the goals and strategies outlined in the LEA's comprehensive prevention plan. Please remember that the comprehension prevention plan needs to be designed with input from parents, students, educators and support staff.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Region 4 Professional Development Awards for 2025-2026 foster the growth of health information access and data science skills among network members. This funding supports diverse projects such as workshops, conferences, and educational activities aimed at enhancing the professional capacity of individuals affiliated with NNLM Region 4. By encouraging proposals that address the needs of underrepresented communities, the awards aim to improve health information services and access across the region.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The Community Ties Giving Program by Union Pacific Foundation offers local grants aimed at enhancing community well-being through diverse funding priorities. These include safety initiatives, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes supporting organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create impactful projects that resonate with Union Pacific's heritage and mission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Union Pacific communities and demonstrate a clear need and capacity to deliver effective programming.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

Utah State Board of Education

The Utah State Board of Education (USBE) is a constitutionally established, elected, partisan body that exercises general control and supervision over the public education system in Utah, including establishing the state educational core standards, state educator licensing policies, and state high school graduation requirements.

APEX Grant Program

The APEX Grant Program, created by Utah's H.B. 447, establishes a grant program to help local education agencies (LEAs) create or expand catalyst centers. The purpose of the program is to support LEAs in creating and expanding these centers to align with labor market needs and state career and technical education goals and drive student engagement.

What is an APEX Center?

An APEX Center is a profession-based learning hub that bridges classroom education with real-world experience. These centers give students the opportunity to explore careers, gain hands-on skills, and work on projects shaped by industry partners. By blending academics with practical learning, APEX Centers spark curiosity, ignite opportunities, and prepare students for success in college, career, and life.

The APEX Grant Program includes: APEX Center Planning Grant and APEX Center Implementation Grant

APEX Center Implementation Grant

Purpose of the Funding

The Applied Professional Education Experience (APEX) Center Grant Program provides funding to local education agencies (LEAs) to create new or expand existing APEX Centers to provide profession-based learning experiences through partnerships with local industry, businesses, and community organizations. Funding may support planning activities, capital expenditures, and program implementation (see Utah Code Annotated § 53F-5-224).

Utah State Board of Education

The Utah State Board of Education (USBE) is a constitutionally established, elected, partisan body that exercises general control and supervision over the public education system in Utah, including establishing the state educational core standards, state educator licensing policies, and state high school graduation requirements.

APEX Grant Program

The APEX Grant Program, created by Utah's H.B. 447, establishes a grant program to help local education agencies (LEAs) create or expand catalyst centers. The purpose of the program is to support LEAs in creating and expanding these centers to align with labor market needs and state career and technical education goals and drive student engagement.

What is an APEX Center?

An APEX Center is a profession-based learning hub that bridges classroom education with real-world experience. These centers give students the opportunity to explore careers, gain hands-on skills, and work on projects shaped by industry partners. By blending academics with practical learning, APEX Centers spark curiosity, ignite opportunities, and prepare students for success in college, career, and life.

The APEX Grant Program includes: APEX Center Planning Grant and APEX Center Implementation Grant

APEX Center Planning Grant

Purpose of the Funding

The Applied Professional Education Experience (APEX) Center Grant Program provides funding to local education agencies (LEAs) to create new or expand existing APEX Centers to provide profession-based learning experiences through partnerships with local industry, businesses, and community organizations. Allowable planning activities include:

• Feasibility studies
• Stakeholder engagement
• Labor market analysis
• Creating the initial program design and rollout
• Teacher and staff training specific to the delivery of profession-based learning

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.