Best Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Virginia

The McGraw Foundation offers annual grants to not-for-profit organizations, primarily in the greater Chicago area, focusing on education, conservation, and human services. Grant amounts typically range from $2,000 to $10,000, with larger grants available for particularly impactful projects. While supporting diverse initiatives, the Foundation does not fund individuals or specific events. Organizations must be tax-exempt under IRS regulations to qualify for funding. The Foundation encourages innovative approaches and partnerships in grant applications.

The Cameron Foundation Grant Program aims to enhance the quality of life in the Tri-Cities area by funding initiatives that address health care access, human services, economic development, education, and cultural preservation. Grants support organizations serving low-income populations and emphasize collaboration, sustainability, and community-driven solutions. By focusing on innovative approaches and inclusivity, the Foundation seeks to create lasting impacts that empower residents and foster vibrant communities.

The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Dr. Philip C. Singer Scholarship, honors a graduate student dedicated to advancing research in drinking water quality, environmental science, and public health. Established in 2020 by the American Water Works Association, this $3,000 scholarship aims to support innovative research that addresses pressing challenges in the water industry. By investing in future leaders, AWWA reinforces its commitment to ensuring safe and sustainable water for all.

The Home Office Giving Program by the CarMax Foundation supports nonprofits in the Greater Richmond, Virginia area, focusing on education, health, and community resilience. With over $65 million invested in local causes, the program aims to uplift underserved youth and adults through initiatives in workforce readiness, health education, and neighborhood revitalization. This commitment reflects CarMax's dedication to fostering thriving communities and empowering individuals, ensuring a brighter future for families in the region.

The Virginia Program Grant by the Virginia Environmental Endowment focuses on enhancing water quality, restoring the Chesapeake Bay, and promoting land conservation. It encourages projects that improve local watersheds and foster environmental literacy. The program prioritizes innovative strategies, matching funds, and collaborative approaches to address climate adaptation and emerging environmental issues. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and governmental agencies, while ineligible costs include litigation and land purchases.

The Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation focuses on improving the lives of underserved individuals in the DC area through grants in five key areas: Arts and Humanities, Community Services, Education, Environment, and Health & Wellness. The Foundation supports organizations that demonstrate cultural competence and systemic change, aiming for self-sufficiency and holistic well-being for all community members. Grants emphasize access to resources and equitable opportunities to foster meaningful community engagement.

The VA Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) offers vital support to farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners, helping them integrate conservation practices into their operations. This program provides both technical and financial assistance to tackle natural resource concerns like water quality, soil health, and wildlife habitat improvement. Applications are accepted year-round, with funding available for various initiatives including cropland, livestock, and forestry practices, aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices across Virginia.

The Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund provides grants to support communities in the U.S. and Canada where the company operates. Focused on affordable housing, education, environmental stewardship, and more, the fund emphasizes projects that meet local needs and demonstrate community support. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and educational institutions. Applications are accepted year-round with a deadline for 2025 on September 30. National initiatives related to working forests are funded by invitation only.

The Virginia Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) provides support for landowners looking to enhance conservation practices on their agricultural operations. With no minimum acreage requirement, CSP offers tailored plans to improve grazing, crop resilience, and wildlife habitats. Participants can receive annual payments for implementing conservation practices, ensuring better soil health and resource management. This program empowers producers to achieve long-term sustainability and environmental benefits while maintaining operational efficiency.

The Father's Table Foundation Grant aims to glorify God by addressing the immediate and future needs of women and children globally. This selective grant process emphasizes building self-sufficiency and resilience among beneficiaries, focusing on proven partners capable of expanding their impact. The foundation supports a diverse range of projects, including employment assistance, education, humanitarian aid, and health care, ensuring that aid not only meets urgent needs but also fosters long-term sustainability.

The Semi-Annual Competitive Grant from the Robert G III and Maude Morgan Cabell Foundation supports capital projects for tax-exempt organizations in Virginia. Established in 1957, the foundation emphasizes strategic grants that inspire community engagement and leverage donor generosity. Eligible nonprofits, particularly in the Richmond area, can apply for matching funds to enhance cultural arts, education, and social services. The foundation's goal is to address philanthropic needs while fostering long-term community development.

The Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation supports tax-exempt organizations under IRS Section 501(c)(3) in four key areas: human needs, environmental stewardship, education, and community vitality. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $15,000, with two application cycles each year. Notably, funding is unavailable for organizations without 501(c)(3) status or those located outside Dominion's service areas. This foundation aims to enhance community welfare through targeted support for impactful programs.

The Venable Foundation, a corporate funder, provides grants averaging $10,000 to nonprofits focused on human services, legal support, education, workforce development, youth impact, health, environment, and arts. Funding is targeted at organizations in specific regions, including Washington, DC, Baltimore, New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Miami, and Denver, reinforcing equitable opportunities for economically disadvantaged individuals.

The Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) supports small-scale research grants for institutions with limited NIH funding, emphasizing biomedical research experiences for undergraduates. Eligible institutions must award baccalaureate science degrees and have received no more than $6 million in NIH support over the past seven years. This initiative aims to enhance the research environment at these institutions, fostering student involvement in research activities.

The Emerging Global Leader Award (K43) offers essential research support and protected time for early career scientists in low- and middle-income countries. This program, aligned with NIH's clinical trials policy, aims to cultivate independent research careers by providing mentorship and funding over three to five years. Eligible candidates must hold a junior faculty position at an accredited LMIC institution, fostering the growth of research capacity in their regions.

Perrigo Company Charitable Foundation Grant

The Perrigo Foundation is committed to empowering individuals and global communities by supporting programs and organizations that promote health, well-being, and education. We aim to prepare students and young adults for the workforce, providing accessible career pathways that inspire and empower individuals to reach their full potential. The Foundation is proudly funded by Perrigo Company plc.

Mission Statement

To provide financial support to non-profit organizations that promote our commitment to enhancing the health, well-being and education of individuals and families in the communities in which Perrigo operates. 

Vision Statement

To help improve and positively impact communities by improving access to quality health services, creating educational opportunities, and supporting the needs of the under-served.

Giving Back to Our Communities

Healthcare

We are providing program stability and capacity building for key community agencies, supporting local nonprofits to improve the quality and accessibility of services, and increasing the quality of mental health services, especially for children and families. 

Education

 Education, post-secondary scholarships, and support for first-generation and low-income students primarily focused on a STEM career, advancement for STEM curriculum, and resources in the K-12 classrooms. 

Supporting the Underserved

Community engagement and well-being, ensuring access to basic human necessities such as food, housing, end-of-life support, and necessary social services.

The Fogarty Emerging Global Leader Award supports early career research scientists from low- or middle-income countries (LMIC) by providing research funding and mentored career development for three to five years. This program encourages LMIC scientists in health-related fields to develop projects aligned with their country's health priorities, fostering independent research careers within their institutions. Applications are welcomed from junior faculty members, enhancing global health research and capacity in LMICs.

The John Ben Snow Memorial Trust Grant supports educational programs and initiatives that assist individuals demonstrating financial need. Founded in 1975, it prioritizes funding for organizations that enhance educational opportunities, arts, culture, and community initiatives, particularly for youth and disadvantaged populations. The Trust encourages proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations, with grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. It also considers limited proposals in disabilities, environmental protection, and historic preservation, focusing on educational impact.

Biogen Corporate Sponsorships provide funding to support congresses, events, and initiatives in exchange for tangible benefits such as marketing opportunities and recognition. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and requests must be submitted 50 days in advance. Biogen considers various disease areas for sponsorship, including Alzheimer’s and Multiple Sclerosis. Approval depends on funding availability, alignment with interests, and event details, ensuring transparency for all potential sponsors.

About Regions

Regions Financial Corporation is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas.

Regions Foundation

Regions Foundation supports community investments that positively impact the communities served by Regions Bank. The Foundation engages in a grantmaking program focused on priorities including economic and community development; education and workforce readiness; and financial wellness. The Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded primarily through contributions from Regions Bank.

Matching Gifts Program

Full-time associates and recent retirees (up to 5 years after retirement) of Regions and its affiliated companies can request a Regions Matching Gift to eligible organizations. The recipient organization must be a 501(c) or 170(c) organization located in the Regions footprint (except for accredited educational institutions, which may be located anywhere in the United States) and has a primary mission that clearly fits one of these categories:

• Economic and community development: Supporting economic prosperity through affordable housing, job creation, small-business development, homebuyer education and retention, neighborhood revitalization and stabilization, food security/hunger relief.
• Education and workforce readiness: Supporting career prosperity through student competency and skill building, college and career readiness, educational access and success, credential building and employment and educator training and resources.
• Financial wellness: Supporting financial prosperity through K-12 and college financial education, adult and workforce financial empowerment.
• Arts and culture: Organizations that promote visual or performing arts, historic or science museums, zoos, botanical gardens, libraries, parks or public radio and television.
• Service members and Veterans: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting U.S. military service members and veterans.
• Individuals with disabilities: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting individuals with disabilities.

Regions Matching Gifts for Recent Retirees

Retirees of Regions and its affiliated companies are eligible for the Matching Gift Program for up to 5 years after retirement (the gift date must be within the first 5 years of retirement). Regions will match donations of $25 or more, up to a total of $1,000 per year per retiree.

The Regions Community Affairs team will contact the organization on your behalf to verify the gift and review eligibility.

The Herndon Foundation, established in 1965, supports diverse local causes in the metro Richmond area, focusing on education, health, and cultural preservation. They prioritize programs that ensure educational advancement, meet basic human needs, and enhance access to arts and culture. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt under IRS Section 501(c)(3). The Foundation particularly favors programmatic support that demonstrates a significant impact. Grant requests submitted through their website are given priority.

About Regions

Regions Financial Corporation is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas.

Regions Foundation

Regions Foundation supports community investments that positively impact the communities served by Regions Bank. The Foundation engages in a grantmaking program focused on priorities including economic and community development; education and workforce readiness; and financial wellness. The Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded primarily through contributions from Regions Bank.

Matching Gifts Program

Full-time associates and recent retirees (up to 5 years after retirement) of Regions and its affiliated companies can request a Regions Matching Gift to eligible organizations. The recipient organization must be a 501(c) or 170(c) organization located in the Regions footprint (except for accredited educational institutions, which may be located anywhere in the United States) and has a primary mission that clearly fits one of these categories:

• Economic and community development: Supporting economic prosperity through affordable housing, job creation, small-business development, homebuyer education and retention, neighborhood revitalization and stabilization, food security/hunger relief.
• Education and workforce readiness: Supporting career prosperity through student competency and skill building, college and career readiness, educational access and success, credential building and employment and educator training and resources.
• Financial wellness: Supporting financial prosperity through K-12 and college financial education, adult and workforce financial empowerment.
• Arts and culture: Organizations that promote visual or performing arts, historic or science museums, zoos, botanical gardens, libraries, parks or public radio and television.
• Service members and Veterans: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting U.S. military service members and veterans.
• Individuals with disabilities: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting individuals with disabilities.

Regions Matching Gifts for Full-Time Associates

Regions supports organizations important to our associates through the Regions Matching Gifts Program. This program, which is open for use for all full-time Regions associates, affiliate associates and recent retirees, allows you to make an even greater difference to your favorite charities by doubling your tax-deductible contributions to these organizations. 

The Clif Family Foundation Open Call invites 501(c)(3) organizations to apply for grants supporting general operating costs or specific projects. With a focus on regenerative farming, food worker health, climate justice, and food access, the foundation aims to empower grassroots initiatives. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, with applications reviewed twice a year. Deadlines are March 1 and August 1, and announcements occur about four months post-deadline.

The VA AmeriCorps State Formula Planning Grant supports developing frameworks for AmeriCorps programs aimed at addressing community needs. With awards ranging from $75,000 to $240,000, these grants provide essential resources and technical assistance to organizations looking to enhance their service delivery. AmeriCorps programs focus on various areas, including disaster services, education, economic opportunity, health, environmental stewardship, and support for veterans. This initiative fosters collaboration among nonprofits and government bodies to strengthen community impact.

The VA AmeriCorps State Formula Grant supports programs that engage members in evidence-based interventions to strengthen communities. Managed by Serve Virginia, these grants can provide up to $27,000 per full-time AmeriCorps Member Service Year, with no cap on the number of members. AmeriCorps focuses on enhancing educational outcomes, promoting economic opportunity, and addressing community health needs, thereby fostering a culture of service and volunteerism across Virginia.

The Data Center Community Grants Program (US-CBF) supports nonprofit organizations that enhance their local communities surrounding Google data centers. Funding is available for projects focused on education, economic opportunity, bridging the digital divide, sustainability, health, and arts. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $50,000, prioritizing measurable community benefits and innovative approaches. Eligible projects must demonstrate long-term impact, while operational expenses are generally ineligible. This initiative aims to empower underserved groups and foster collaboration within local ecosystems.

The Philip L. Graham Fund Grant focuses on enhancing the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area through substantial annual grants to 501(c)(3) public charities. It supports diverse initiatives in health, education, arts, and community development, prioritizing innovative, one-time projects. Eligible organizations must serve local residents and align with the Fund's giving priorities. Notably, the Fund awarded $4.1 million in 2017 to 138 organizations, with a strong emphasis on health and education, reflecting its commitment to community enrichment.