Best Quality of Life Grants in Utah

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

 What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.

• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

Cambia Health Foundation seeks to improve health care through focused investments in the health care workforce. They aim to expand, diversify, and train professionals to address behavioral health provider shortages. By enhancing both paid and unpaid workforce sectors, Cambia fosters wellness, reduces stigma, and promotes collaborative care models. Their commitment to health equity reflects in their strategic areas of investment, ensuring everyone has the opportunity for better health outcomes.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

The Hospital Response Team Grant Program (HRT) provides essential funding from the Utah Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice to support coordinated, victim-centered responses for sexual assault survivors. This program enhances collaboration among hospitals, law enforcement, and mental health providers, ensuring comprehensive care and advocacy for victims during medical examinations and beyond. By fostering partnerships, the HRT Grant aims to improve victim safety, access to services, and the overall effectiveness of multidisciplinary response systems in Utah.

Utah 501(c)(3) nonprofits addressing substance abuse treatment/support or anti-human trafficking services can access funding through the Slave 2 Nothing Foundation, with awards ranging from US $5,000 - US $50,000. Eligible programs include detox and treatment, sober living, drop-in centers, emergency safe homes, long-term residential care, survivor support services, and prevention efforts.

The General Operating Support (GOS) Grant is a two-year funding opportunity for nonprofit organizations and municipal governments in Utah focused on the arts or public museums. This grant helps supplement general operating revenue, with varying funding limits based on organizational revenue. Eligible organizations can apply through a full or simplified application process, depending on their budget. A minimum 1:1 cash match is required for all grants.

Columbia Basin Trust

The Trust was created in 1995 to support efforts by the people of the Basin to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being in the Canadian portion of the Columbia River Basin—the region most affected by the Columbia River Treaty.

Mission: The Trust supports efforts by the people of the Basin to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being and to achieve greater self-sufficiency for present and future generations.

Non-profit SMART Grants

Non-Profit SMART Grants support Basin non-profits and First Nations to increase their energy efficiency, generate renewable energy, adapt to the impacts of climate change, and/or reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

There are two streams for this grant: Stream One – Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations; and Stream Two – Renewable Energy and Improvements to Buildings

Stream One – Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations

This stream supports the purchase of one new electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle for use in Basin communities, and/or up to two charging stations.

Columbia Basin Trust

The Trust was created in 1995 to support efforts by the people of the Basin to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being in the Canadian portion of the Columbia River Basin—the region most affected by the Columbia River Treaty.

Mission: The Trust supports efforts by the people of the Basin to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being and to achieve greater self-sufficiency for present and future generations.

Non-profit SMART Grants

Non-Profit SMART Grants support Basin non-profits and First Nations to increase their energy efficiency, generate renewable energy, adapt to the impacts of climate change, and/or reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

There are two streams for this grant: Stream One – Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations; and Stream Two – Renewable Energy and Improvements to Buildings

Stream Two – Renewable Energy and Improvements to Buildings

This stream supports solar photovoltaic arrays, energy efficiency retrofits or other building improvements to structures or property.

The Tribal Solar Accelerator Fund (TSAF) empowers tribal communities across the U.S. by promoting renewable energy projects and workforce development. Launched by GRID Alternatives, TSAF provides critical funding for solar initiatives, enhancing energy sovereignty and resilience. Since its inception, TSAF has integrated community participation into its projects, ensuring that tribes can access sustainable energy solutions. By prioritizing education and equity, TSAF supports a transition to a clean energy economy, aiming for a sustainable future for generations to come.

Utah 501(c)(3) nonprofits expanding healthcare or behavioral health access can apply for US $5,000 - US $50,000 Healthcare Access Grants supporting evidence-based or innovative programs. Intermountain Community Care Foundation funds organizations in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, and Utah that improve integrated medical, dental, mental health, suicide prevention, and addiction services for their communities.

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Land Conservation and Access

RMEF conserves critical big game habitat and migration corridors, while expanding and improving public access, including through land acquisitions and voluntary conservation agreements. RMEF's

2026 priorities include:

• Conserving migratory corridors and connecting landscapes through land conservation efforts
• Creating new or improved public access through access easements and agreements and state-run access programs

The LHGM Community Support Grant, provided by the Larry H. & Gail Miller Family Foundation, focuses on enriching communities through support for 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Grants typically range from $15,000 to $25,000, with requests capped at $50,000. Key areas of focus include health, education, and economic self-reliance. Organizations must be registered as 501(c)(3) and applications are reviewed monthly, emphasizing the need for impact reporting.

Purpose

Utah’s Cooperative Marketing Grant is a collaborative initiative designed to leverage both state and partner funding to enhance the visitor economy and increase tax revenue. The grant supports destinations and non-profits in maintaining or expanding their market position through strategic marketing efforts.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Utah support eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies affecting safe drinking water availability. The program funds water transmission line grants of up to $150,000 for repairs and maintenance, and water source grants of up to $1,000,000 for constructing water facilities. This initiative aids rural areas and towns, fostering access to clean water following disasters and enhancing environmental quality.

Cambia Health Foundation is dedicated to enhancing healthcare experiences through its RFP, which aims to support older adult kinship and grand-family caregivers. By promoting strategies that strengthen social connections and improve access to mental health services, the foundation seeks to address the unique challenges faced by these caregivers. The initiative encourages tailored proposals that reflect the diverse needs of kinship families, ultimately fostering a more interconnected and supportive community for aging individuals.

The LHGM Strategic Initiative Grant, offered by the Larry H. & Gail Miller Family Foundation, supports 501(c)(3) nonprofits with requests over $50,000. Established in 2007, the Foundation aims to enhance communities through initiatives in health, education, and economic self-reliance. Nonprofits must submit a one-page concept outline for consideration. Grants are not available for individuals, political organizations, or entities outside the U.S., ensuring focus on impactful local community services.

The Wetlands Protection and/or Restoration Grant, managed by the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire, and State Lands (FFSL) and the Great Salt Lake Watershed Enhancement Trust (GSLWET), offers up to $3 million to support projects aimed at protecting and restoring wetlands and habitats surrounding the Great Salt Lake. This funding is essential for enhancing the hydrology of the lake and ensuring the health of its ecosystem, benefiting both local wildlife and communities.

Grants from Daniels Fund help Utah nonprofit organizations and government equivalents fund specific programs, general operations, or capital campaigns in areas like youth development, K–12 reform, homelessness, disabilities, addiction, and aging, with awards around Approximately US $75,000. Eligible 501(c)(3)s must provide services in Utah and align with one of the fund’s eight designated funding areas.

Arbor Rising Grant, established in 2010, is a NYC-based nonprofit providing unrestricted multi-year funding and capacity-building support to nonprofits focused on alleviating poverty. The grant process occurs every three years, with the next round in 2025 being invitation-only. Eligible organizations must demonstrate high potential and effective leadership, typically operating on a modest budget. Arbor Rising prioritizes applicants from the NYC metro area while expanding to cover the lower 48 US states.

Utah 501(c)(3) nonprofits improving nutrition security or providing supportive housing services can apply for Social Drivers of Health Grants, with awards from US $5,000 - US $100,000. With a mission to help people live the healthiest lives possible, Intermountain Community Care Foundation supports evidence-based programs addressing key social determinants of health.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Utah serving families with children can apply for US $5,000 - US $100,000 to support child and family mental well-being programs. Grants from Intermountain Community Care Foundation fund prevention, early intervention, family-centered services, trauma-informed systems, and community behavioral health collaborations; applicants must provide a recent audit and required organizational documentation.

The NIOSH Miner Safety and Health Training Program aims to enhance health and safety training for miners in the Western United States. With mining fatalities significantly higher than the national average, this initiative seeks to address critical training needs by developing effective programs, increasing qualified instructors, and ensuring compliance with existing safety guidelines. By focusing on culturally appropriate training methods and collaborative efforts with other agencies, the program aims to reduce injuries and fatalities in the mining sector.

The George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in Utah through philanthropic efforts. With a mission to support impactful projects in arts, education, community welfare, health, and preservation, the foundation seeks organizations that deliver measurable benefits without duplicating existing services. Applications for 2025 are encouraged to be submitted early, as the grant aims to foster significant community contributions and support a diverse range of initiatives.

The Conservation Partners Grant Program, funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, supports private landowners in implementing regenerative agriculture and conservation practices. By awarding competitive grants, the program facilitates technical assistance for developing management plans and best practices, enabling landowners to maximize the ecological benefits of their lands. This initiative is crucial for enhancing fish and wildlife habitats, addressing pressing conservation issues, and promoting sustainable land stewardship across the United States.

The Sabbatical Research and Education Grant, offered by Western SARE, enables faculty worldwide to collaborate with farmers and researchers in the Western U.S. This program focuses on conducting innovative research and educational outreach in underserved regions, with an emphasis on unexplored topics. Grants up to $75,000 are available for projects spanning one year, promoting agricultural sustainability and community involvement.

The WaterSMART Applied Science Grants aim to enhance water management and supply reliability through innovative research and data utilization. By inviting qualified entities to apply for funding, the program focuses on improving hydrologic data access, forecasting capabilities, and modeling tools. This initiative aligns with federal priorities to optimize resources, ensuring water managers can effectively address future demands and adapt to climate challenges, thus fostering resilience in water operations across the nation.