Best Marketing Grants for Nonprofits in Virginia

Virginia Board for People with Disabilities

The Virginia Board for People with Disabilities (the Board) is the Commonwealth’s Developmental Disabilities (DD) Council. The Board’s mission is to advance opportunities for independence, personal decision-making and full participation in community life for individuals with developmental and other disabilities. The Board’s grant and contractual investments are designed to advance its mission and support the tenets of full inclusion by working with organizations at the local, state, and national levels to achieve our goals. 

Creating Inclusive Communities: Pre-ETS

Through this RFP, the Board seeks to support local, regional, or statewide efforts that further the recommendations in the Board’s FFY 2025 assessment of access to pre-employment transition services through the special education transition process. Projects should be designed to achieve capacity building and/or systems change. Projects should also be culturally and linguistically competent. The Board encourages innovative proposals, based on promising or best practices.

Projects That Will be Considered for Funding

Applications must address the below target area. View the Board’s State Plan for more information about target areas. The Board is asking applicants to develop a grant project that meets the specified State Plan activity, using your expertise and creativity that will achieve the Board’s desired outcomes.

Target Area: Employment – Barrier Reduction

• State Plan Activity: To support the implementation of community-based initiatives that further the recommendations in the Board’s FFY 2025 assessment of access to pre-employment transition services through the special education transition process.

• State Plan Objective: By October 2026, the Board will support culturally and linguistically competent initiatives that reduce barriers to Virginians with developmental disabilities obtaining competitive, integrated employment.

• State Plan Goal: By October 2026, more Virginians with developmental disabilities, reflecting the state’s geographic and cultural diversity, will have (1) increased ability to participate and learn in an inclusive school environment; and (2) increased ability to prepare for, and obtain, competitive, integrated employment and other career goals and opportunities.

The selected grantee is required to contribute a minimum match (cash or in-kind) of 25 percent of total project costs (grant funds + match). Federal funds cannot be used as match. Please see the Grants Manual for information on match requirements. In light of the Board’s limited funds availability, applicants are strongly encouraged to use indirect costs towards the minimum match requirement. 

The Therapeutic Giving program by Johnson & Johnson focuses on funding initiatives that enhance patient access to treatment and advance health equity, particularly in immunology. Eligible nonprofit organizations can apply for support aimed at improving health outcomes through innovative programs. The initiative prioritizes measurable impacts over fundraising activities, emphasizing the importance of addressing healthcare disparities and promoting disease awareness efforts for diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis.

The Vulcan Materials Company Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community quality of life through education, environmental stewardship, and employee involvement. Established in 1988, the Foundation supports public charities and government units, prioritizing proposals that improve public education and promote sustainable practices. Special consideration is given to initiatives that engage Vulcan employees and integrate multiple focus areas, ensuring a positive impact in the local communities where Vulcan operates.

The Big Bets Fellowship: Economic Opportunity in the United States is a transformative 4-month program designed to empower emerging leaders to tackle economic challenges head-on. With a focus on innovative solutions for job creation, affordable housing, and equitable access to resources, the fellowship equips participants with essential skills and a supportive network. The initiative aims to drive systemic change and promote sustainable economic prosperity, addressing inequalities while fostering resilient communities across the nation.

The Jazz Touring Network (JTN) fosters the presentation of jazz across the mid-Atlantic region, supporting both novice and experienced presenters. Through an open and competitive application process, JTN members engage in professional development and collaborate on annual jazz tours. Eligible organizations must be located in specific states and maintain a strong history of presenting touring artists. The JTN prioritizes diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that programming reflects the vibrant landscape of contemporary jazz.

The Pinetop Assistance League (PAL) Grant provides crucial financial support to elderly blues musicians, ensuring their well-being during emergencies. This grant, part of the Pinetop Perkins Foundation's mission, offers assistance for medical expenses, home care, and essential living costs. Eligible applicants must be professional artists aged 50 or older with a household income below $35,000. By addressing these needs, PAL plays a vital role in preserving the legacy and care of blues musicians.

Virginia Department of Education

The Virginia Department of Education is the administrative agency for the commonwealth’s public schools. VDOE works in partnership with Virginia’s 132 school divisions to support and improve teaching and learning, set high expectations for all students, and promote student safety, wellbeing, and health.

Virginia Adult Education Competitive Grant Program

Purpose of WIOA Title II

In accordance with the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (AEFLA), Title II of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014, the purpose of this funding opportunity is to assist eligible providers in developing, implementing, and improving adult education and literacy programs to provide concurrent services that focus on the following:

• Assist adults to become literate and obtain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment and economic self-sufficiency;
• Assist adults who are parents or family members to obtain the education and skills that are necessary to become full partners in the educational development of their children, and lead to sustainable improvements in the economic opportunities for their family;
• Assist adults in attaining a secondary school diploma and in the transition to postsecondary education and training, including through career pathways; and
• Assist immigrants and other individuals who are English language learners in improving their reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension skills in English; mathematics skills; and acquiring an understanding of the American system of government, individual freedom, and the responsibilities of citizenship.

This grant funding includes opportunities 1.0 – Adult Education Regional Programs, 2.0 – Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education (IELCE), and 3.0 – Corrections Education and Other Institutionalized Individuals (C&I).

Adult Education Activities (Adult Education Regional Programs)

Eligible providers will be required to provide adult education services based on identified needs in the region. Programs must also prepare adult learners for and support them in achieving successful transitions to postsecondary education, training, or employment.

Eligible providers are required to offer all the activities below, per the WIOA Combined State Plan and the State Priorities:

• Adult education
• Literacy
• English language acquisition activities
• Workforce preparation activities
• Integrated education and training (IET)

Eligible providers may also offer the following activities, with justification of need:

• Integrated English literacy and civics education
• Workplace adult education and literacy activities
• Family literacy activities

The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services is inviting applications for the 2026 Virginia Services, Training, Officers, Prosecution (VSTOP) Grant Program, a continuation of the prior year's initiative. This program aims to enhance the effectiveness of the criminal justice system through funding for localities and organizations involved in law enforcement, crime prevention, and victim services. The grant period will last 12 months, from January 1 to December 31, 2026, without extensions.

The Eastern Shore of Virginia Community Foundation's Field of Interest Grant Program aims to support organizations addressing child labor exploitation. Grants will prioritize initiatives that assist affected individuals and combat labor trafficking. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3), with a focus on projects serving Accomack County. Funding will cover basic needs, legal services, youth programs, education, and nonprofit capacity-building efforts. Application deadlines are March 1 for Spring and September 1 for Fall.

The Tribal Wildlife Grants (TWG) program, offered by the US Department of the Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service, provides vital technical and financial assistance to federally recognized Tribes. This funding supports various conservation activities, including habitat protection, species monitoring, and wildlife management, helping to preserve both culturally significant species and ecosystems. TWG grants empower Tribes to implement their conservation priorities effectively and sustainably.

The Virginia Services, Training, Officers, Prosecution (VSTOP) Limited Competition Grant Program aims to enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement in Virginia. Managed by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, this program is open for applications for the 2026-2027 grant cycle, focusing on initiatives that improve access to justice for survivors of violence. Eligible projects must create new officer positions within law enforcement to support these objectives.

The Shelton Hardaway Short, Jr. Trust Grant, established in 1974, supports charitable organizations primarily in Central and Southern Virginia. Grants, typically between $10,000 and $50,000, are given as memorials to Mr. Short's family members. The foundation prioritizes various program areas including arts, education, health, and human services, and aims to enhance the community's welfare. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) entities, with no geographic limitations, although local organizations are favored.

The Greater Lynchburg Community Foundation offers competitive grants to enhance the quality of life in Lynchburg and surrounding counties. With a focus on various sectors such as the arts, education, and health, these grants support innovative projects that address community needs. Tax-exempt organizations with a 501(c)(3) classification are eligible to apply, with a preference for proposals that promise significant impact with moderate funding. This initiative aims to foster self-reliance and community engagement.

The Virginia Special Events and Festivals Grant Program, offered by the Virginia Tourism Corporation, supports marketing and production for established events with significant local economic impact. Eligible events must have a minimum attendance of 500 and two years of prior attendance since 2022. Awards range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on attendance tiers. Preference is given to events with substantial local cash or in-kind match, fostering community engagement and tourism growth.

The USDA's Tribal Colleges Extension Program - Capacity Applications (TCEP-CA) aims to support community-based projects that enhance agriculture, youth development, economic growth, and healthy lifestyles among Tribal communities. This new funding cycle, managed by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), emphasizes merit and efficiency, encouraging applicants to engage actively with local farmers and ranchers to ensure relevant and impactful initiatives.

The James M. Cox Foundation Grant offers support to nonprofit organizations focused on conservation, early childhood education, family empowerment, and health. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and located in areas where Cox Enterprises operates. Grant applications are accepted year-round, with deadlines before Trustee meetings. Preference is given to organizations with a history of local engagement. This foundation embodies the philanthropic spirit of its founder, James M. Cox, by giving back to the community.

The Harlene and Marvin Wool Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in the St. Louis area that enhance lives through health, education, social services, and the arts. With a focus on empowering the economically disadvantaged, the foundation welcomes applications from 501(c)(3) organizations. Key priority areas include education, health and wellness, family and child empowerment, and cultural engagement, aiming to foster community growth and development.

The Appalachian Landscapes Project - Capital Grants Application Fall 2025 by the Open Space Institute aims to enhance conservation across the Appalachian Mountain region. With a focus on biodiversity, climate resilience, and community benefits, this initiative supports the acquisition of land and conservation easements. As a vital climate refuge, the Appalachians play a crucial role in safeguarding habitats and providing public recreation opportunities for the 26 million residents living in this area.

SC Johnson Grants aim to enhance community welfare through charitable contributions, focusing on health, sustainability, and opportunity. Since 1937, the company has committed five percent of its pretax profits to support registered charities and nonprofit organizations, especially in areas where it operates. The grant program prioritizes initiatives addressing healthcare access, environmental conservation, and educational equity, ensuring that efforts align with the values of community service and corporate responsibility.

The Conservation Connect Fellowship Program, offered by the National Forest Foundation, invites graduate students to engage in hands-on conservation projects. This fellowship provides practical experience, mentorship from conservation professionals, and training in collaborative leadership. Fellows will gain a deep understanding of forest management and expand their professional networks. With a focus on developing future conservation leaders, the program seeks students passionate about public lands and community engagement.

The Synod of the Mid-Atlantic's Thanksgiving Offering Fund supports child and youth care agencies through grants funded by the generous contributions of Presbyterians. Established in 2001, this initiative allows individuals, groups, and congregations to donate, ensuring continued support for vital services. Contributions can be made through direct donations, bequests, or gifts of various assets. Funds are allocated based on designations and a formula for undesignated contributions, promoting community welfare.

The Virginia Homeless Solutions Program (VHSP) provides funding for localized emergency crisis response systems aimed at reducing homelessness. It supports various activities, including outreach, emergency shelter operations, and rapid re-housing, fostering community-based solutions. Eligible providers include local governments and nonprofits involved in the Continuum of Care. By implementing these strategies, VHSP strives to minimize the duration of homelessness and prevent families from becoming homeless, thereby improving overall community stability.

Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants support projects focusing on water stewardship across the Great Lakes watershed. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, eligible organizations can apply for funding to improve ecosystem health, enhance public health through better water resource management, and promote resilience against climate-related water risks. This initiative highlights Bell's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support in all 50 states and DC.

The GLCF Century Fund offers $100,000 annually to tax-exempt charitable organizations in Lynchburg and surrounding counties. This grant supports transformational projects that significantly improve nonprofit operations and community services. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate a commitment to innovative change. The fund aims to enhance various project categories, including arts, education, and environmental initiatives. Organizations can apply every five years, ensuring a continuous opportunity for impactful funding.

The Rosendin Foundation Emergency Grant provides financial support for unplanned expenses due to unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters. Grants up to $5,000 are available for community-focused non-profit organizations in states where Rosendin and MPS operate. The foundation prioritizes emotional, occupational, and nutritional health initiatives, aiming to positively impact communities and empower individuals through financial support and volunteer efforts.

The ELFSI SS Graduate Student Award promotes research in ethical, legal, forensics, and societal issues in toxicology. Open to SOT members or applicants, it highlights significant contributions to the field. Recipients will be recognized at the SOT Annual Meeting and receive a certificate, emphasizing the importance of their work within the ELFSI Specialty Section.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Thriving Communities Grant Program supports initiatives that promote sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience across a 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, the program aims to foster economic development and ensure equal access to basic necessities. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt nonprofits, government entities, and public schools, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in their community-focused efforts.