Best Earth Science Grants in Washington

Washington 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on economic and workforce advancement, affordable housing, or community arts and culture can access funding through US Bancorp Foundation. Organizations based in and serving U.S. Bank communities, especially those led by people of color and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, may be competitive applicants for programs that intersect with local environmental or earth science priorities.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

Washington nonprofits and NGOs using technology for crisis response, education, economic empowerment, or climate resilience can access funding through Cisco Systems Foundation; awards up to US $100,000 for innovative, early-stage social impact programs. Eligible organizations must primarily serve economically underserved communities and keep overhead at or below 25 percent, with applications accepted year-round via an LOI process.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Washington working in health and welfare, education, or community services can apply for support from Labcorp Charitable Foundation. Funding may assist food pantries, healthcare access for underserved populations, STEM education, or healthy lifestyle initiatives, and could benefit earth science-related programs that connect to community health or education.

Nonprofit and social enterprise programs improving education, health, or family economic stability for children and youth in urban low-income communities in Washington and other eligible areas can seek more than US $50,000 for project support or scaling. Michael & Susan Dell Foundation funds organizations working in the U.S., India, and South Africa that meet its mission and values criteria.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

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.

Nonprofits providing health, education, or humanitarian services in Washington and other countries can seek support for programs serving marginalized communities. With a mission to promote health, education, and disaster relief, Semnani Family Foundation provides funding to organizations addressing medical care, child and women’s health, literacy, and social services for vulnerable populations.

Washington 501(c)(3) nonprofits working in education, science, or health can access funding through the Sidney Stern Memorial Trust to support charitable programs serving U.S. communities. Grants support well-managed organizations with broad impact and strong service to their target populations; funds must be used within the U.S. and cannot go to individuals or political activities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on nature and wildlife conservation or environmental projects in the Southern region can apply for Robinson Foundation support; Washington-based groups may be eligible if serving that area. Robinson Foundation provides Washington earth science and conservation organizations with single-year funding that creates tangible, meaningful impact rather than capital projects.

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.

Washington 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities near Georgia-Pacific manufacturing communities can seek funding for education, environment, entrepreneurship, and community enrichment projects. Washington organizations working on earth science or environmental initiatives may be eligible if they are located within 30 miles of a Georgia-Pacific facility and serve its surrounding community.

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.

Environmental and wildlife organizations in Washington can seek US $1,000 - US $20,000 to support conservation, protection activities, and related community programs. The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation supports IRS-qualified U.S. nonprofits, including those working on environmental, wildlife, and community-based initiatives that can make strong use of relatively small awards.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits addressing basic needs, community vitality, or volunteer-driven causes can apply for Ameriprise Financial’s community grants to support programs in areas like hunger relief, shelter, and adult self-sufficiency. Washington organizations working on economic development, financial literacy, housing, arts access, or workforce readiness may be eligible if they meet the focus and documentation requirements.

Undergraduate students in earth science and related natural history fields across the U.S. can apply for Smithsonian Institution’s Natural History Research Experiences, which provides US $6,000 for a 10-week research internship in Washington, DC. With a mission to train future natural history leaders, this program offers mentored research, housing, travel support, and professional development.

Washington 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking support for education, social services, health care, civic or cultural, or environmental projects can access funding through Dr Scholl Foundation, with typical awards of US $5,000 - US $25,000. U.S. organizations with at least three years of financial activity, including those with earth science-related initiatives, may be eligible for one-year project grants.

Washington earth and space science senior scientists advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion can access recognition and a US $10,000 prize through the Warren Washington Lifetime Achievement Award. Eligible nominees are established leaders whose career-long DEI efforts in geosciences demonstrate innovation, mentorship, and international impact; nominators must be active AGU members.

Graduate student members of AGU studying atmospheric sciences or space physics can receive US $1,000 to support their research through the Edmond M. Dewan Young Scientist Scholarship. Focused on Earth and space science, AGU invites Washington earth science students and others meeting the criteria to apply for this competitive award.

Washington environmental and earth science nonprofits can access funding through Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation to tell impactful stories about their conservation, preservation, education, or wellness work. Registered 501(c)(3) organizations, and aligned for-profits, may receive more than US $50,000 to develop storytelling projects that highlight their real-world community impact.

Washington nonprofits improving economic stability, workforce readiness, health, or disaster relief can access funding through O'Reilly Automotive Foundation for project, general operating, or capital support. Eligible applicants are U.S.-based 501(c)(3) or equivalent community-benefit organizations located where O’Reilly Auto Parts operates and serving underserved or underrepresented individuals and families.

Journalists producing deadline-driven Earth and space science news stories, including those based in Washington, can apply for AGU’s David Perlman Award, which provides more than US $5,000 plus travel support and recognition. Eligible applicants work in any non-book medium, may be freelance or employed, and can submit one entry per year, including self-nominations.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with programs in environmental stewardship, youth development, food security, or community services can receive US $30,000 - US $350,000 in support, including those serving Washington. Chick Fil A Foundation’s True Inspiration Awards back initiatives like community gardens, outdoor classrooms, housing support, and educational enrichment for underserved youth and families.

Graduate students in Earth system and atmospheric sciences can receive US $40,000 plus research visits and professional development to advance research and policy work with societal impact. Focused on Earth science and related fields, the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research invites students at North American universities, including those in Washington, to apply.

Washington earth science departments at private, predominantly undergraduate colleges can access funding through the M J Murdock Charitable Trust to support original natural sciences research involving undergraduates. Eligible institutions in the Pacific Northwest region may request up to US $70,000 for direct research costs, including minor equipment, supplies, student and faculty summer stipends, required research travel, and publication expenses.