Best Grants for Environmental Conservation in Virginia

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

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 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.

The OSI Northeast Resilient Landscapes Initiative Fund supports conservation projects in New England, the mid-Atlantic, and Central Appalachians aimed at preserving biodiversity amidst climate change. This fund provides grants and loans to nonprofits for acquiring climate-resilient lands, enhancing ecological connectivity. Projects must meet specific criteria regarding landscape resilience and stewardship to be eligible. By focusing on high-priority areas, the initiative ensures effective use of resources to safeguard vital habitats and species.

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.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

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 Mary Morton Parsons Foundation supports Virginia-based nonprofits focusing on capital projects across various sectors, including arts, education, and conservation. Founded in 1988, it has awarded approximately $73 million to enhance community life and foster civic engagement. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and not have received funding in the past five years. Applications are accepted online with specific deadlines for the Spring and Fall cycles.

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 Amazon Rappahannock Region Community Fund, managed by The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region, will distribute $300,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations in Stafford, Spotsylvania, Caroline, and Louisa Counties. The fund focuses on areas such as STEM education, sustainability, community development, digital skills, cultural heritage preservation, and health and wellbeing. Eligible projects must serve local communities and adhere to specific requirements, promoting innovation and collaboration.

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 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.

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.

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 TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

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 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) is issuing this announcement for various research and development topic areas. The ERDC consists of the Coastal and Hydraulics Laboratory (CHL), the Geotechnical and Structures Laboratory (GSL), the Environmental Laboratory (EL) and the Information Technology Laboratory (ITL) in Vicksburg, Mississippi, the Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) in Hanover, New Hampshire, the Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL) in Champaign, Illinois, and the Geospatial Research Laboratory (GRL) in Alexandria, Virginia.

The ERDC is responsible for conducting research in the broad fields of hydraulics, dredging, coastal engineering, instrumentation, oceanography, remote sensing, geotechnical engineering, earthquake engineering, soil effects, vehicle mobility, self-contained munitions, military engineering, geophysics, pavements, protective structures, aquatic plants, water quality, dredged material, treatment of hazardous waste, wetlands, physical/mechanical/ chemical properties of snow and other frozen precipitation, infrastructure and environmental issues for installations, computer science, telecommunications management, energy, facilities maintenance, materials and structures, engineering processes, environmental processes, land and heritage conservation, and ecological processes.

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 Community Conservation Program, funded by the Virginia Environmental Endowment, supports conservation initiatives in specific Virginia counties and cities. Focused on water quality protection, land conservation, and environmental literacy, the program encourages proposals that demonstrate measurable results, with funding starting at $50,000. Organizations are advised to seek informal reviews of their proposals before submission. VEE favors projects that leverage matching funds, thereby enhancing community engagement and environmental sustainability.

The Environmental Stewardship - Seed & Program Funding initiative by the Hampton Roads Community Foundation aims to foster conservation practices among youth in South Hampton Roads. It emphasizes education about local waterways and the effects of sea level rise, encouraging hands-on experiences and action plans for watershed preservation. By equipping students with knowledge and skills, the program seeks to enhance environmental stewardship and ensure a healthier future for the region's natural resources.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program, offered by The Nature Conservancy, provides up to $100,000 for projects that acquire land and easements throughout the Appalachian region. This program emphasizes equitable conservation, aiming to support historically marginalized communities and enhance access to nature while addressing climate change impacts. Projects must demonstrate community engagement and align with the program's goals to protect vital habitats and foster resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

Virginia Department of Historic Resources

The Virginia Department of Historic Resources is the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) in Virginia. As the SHPO, DHR administers a number of federal programs. DHR is also a state agency in the Natural and Historic Resources Secretariat. DHR fosters, encourages, and supports the stewardship and use of Virginia’s significant architectural, archaeological, and historic resources as valuable assets for the economic, educational, social, and cultural benefit of citizens and communities. Our programs include both the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places, Survey, Grants, Archaeology, Cemetery Preservation, African American and Tribal Outreach, the Historical Highway Marker program, 106 Review and Compliance, Conservation, Collections, Easements, and the Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program.

Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grants Program- Appalachian Southwest Virginia

The Commonwealth of Virginia has been awarded an additional $750,000 for another round of funding through the National Park Service (NPS)-funded Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grants Program (PBHRGP) to support the rehabilitation of historic buildings and sites in the state’s southwestern region. In alignment with its overarching mission to ensure that Virginia’s historic places are valued and used as assets for education, tourism, environmental sustainability, and economic vitality, DHR will administer the award by establishing a subgrant program to fund approximately three preservation projects in Appalachian Virginia. Public entities and nonprofit organizations based in Southwest Virginia that steward historic places in this 25-county region for the public good will be eligible to apply for funds from the subgrant program.

The PBHRGP is funded though the National Park Service Historic Preservation Fund (HPF). all programs funded though the HPF must adhere to the HPF Grants Manual. All grant-funded projects must enter into a preservation agreement (short-term covenant that places restrictions on the property and runs with property deed) based on terms defined by the NPS. Please review the information linked here outlining preservation agreements before submitting an application.

The J.M.K. Innovation Prize, awarded by The J.M. Kaplan Fund, supports early-stage social innovators tackling critical issues in environment, heritage conservation, and social justice. With up to $175,000 in funding and tailored support over three years, it empowers organizations to pilot transformative solutions. The Prize fosters collaboration among awardees, providing resources and mentorship to enhance their impact. Open to both non-profit and mission-driven for-profit entities, it addresses the funding gap for innovative, high-potential projects.

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 James River Water Quality Improvement Grant Program, managed by the Virginia Environmental Endowment, aims to enhance water quality through targeted investments. The program focuses on riparian buffer installations, agricultural pollution reduction, living shoreline construction, and stream restoration. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and local governments, with funding prioritized for implementation costs. Proposals must align with established priorities to demonstrate effectiveness in improving the James River's water quality.