Best STEM Education Grants in Virginia

Virginia 501(c)(3) public charities, government entities, and qualifying colleges or universities within the AEP service territory can apply for American Electric Power Foundation support to advance STEM education and related programs. Funding may also assist basic needs, social justice, environmental, housing, hunger, and cultural initiatives that meet the foundation’s priorities.

Virginia 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on children, education, or health and human services can access funding through the Costco Foundation for monetary program support. Organizations offering STEM or broader education initiatives may be eligible if they demonstrate community need, evidence-based outcomes, collaboration, and diversified funding, with applications typically reviewed within 4–6 weeks.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with innovative human services or social problem-solving programs in Virginia may be eligible for support, especially smaller or evolving organizations. Creag Foundation supports creative approaches across areas like health, community development, literacy, and public safety; STEM education initiatives that address social issues in new ways may fit their 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.

Virginia STEM and STEAM education nonprofits and NGOs using technology-driven programs for underserved communities can access funding through Cisco Systems Foundation. Global Impact Cash Grants support innovative, early-stage solutions in education, crisis response, and economic empowerment worldwide, with awards up to US $100,000 and a year-round LOI-based application process.

Educational institutions, government programs, and eligible nonprofits in Virginia can seek funding for safety, community development, and education initiatives, including K–12 STEM and higher education programs. Grants from State Farm Companies Foundation help support STEM/STEAM education, academic performance, and pathways for college and career success, alongside related community-focused projects across the U.S.

Grants support U.S.-based 501(c)(3) cultural institutions with STEM/STEAM-focused arts and science education programs, including those serving Virginia, with awards of more than US $100,000 for program, capital, and limited general support. Grants from William Randolph Hearst Foundation help STEM education organizations that reach large populations and demonstrate measurable, lasting impact, especially in K–12 arts education and science skill development.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations offering STEM education, health, or community programs in Virginia can apply for funding to support their work. Labcorp Charitable Foundation provides support for initiatives like STEM programming, healthcare and patient services for underserved populations, food pantries, and healthy lifestyle research, with requests reviewed in March and September.

Education organizations and social enterprises in Virginia working on STEM or broader K–12 initiatives may be eligible for project or scale-up support of more than US $50,000 in the U.S. from the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation. The foundation backs programs improving education and economic stability for children and youth in low-income urban communities.

Virginia 501(c)(3) nonprofits offering early childhood or youth STEM/STEAM education, especially for low- and moderate-income families, can apply for PNC Foundation’s Foundation Grant to support classroom programs, educator development, and family engagement. The program also backs broader community economic development, including housing, small business support, arts, and neighborhood revitalization where PNC has a significant presence.

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.

Virginia STEM and other educational, scientific, medical, and charitable 501(c)(3) organizations can access funding through the Sidney Stern Memorial Trust for programs serving people in the U.S. Eligible tax-exempt nonprofits with broadly beneficial, well-managed services may be competitive, as long as all grant funds are used within the country.

Virginia STEM and higher-education-focused 501(c)(3) nonprofits can access funding through Steel Dynamics Foundation for STEM education, business and finance education, economic and community development, and human services projects. Organizations serving communities near Steel Dynamics facilities, with strong local support and impact, may be especially competitive for these grants.

Nonprofit organizations and schools offering STEM, leadership, entrepreneurship, or mentorship programs for girls and young women in Northern Virginia can use this grant to start, expand, or enhance eligible programs. Grants from The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia help Virginia STEM education initiatives serving K–12 and college-age girls in Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, and nearby cities.

Virginia 501(c)(3) organizations active for over three years can seek support for education and youth or family services projects that create tangible, meaningful impact. The Robinson Foundation provides single-year funding to public charities serving communities below the Mason-Dixon line, which may benefit STEM and broader education initiatives, but does not fund facilities or other capital projects.

Virginia STEM / STEAM education organizations, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and qualified local government entities can access funding for education, environment, entrepreneurship, and community enrichment projects that serve Georgia-Pacific communities. The Georgia-Pacific Foundation prioritizes programs within 30 miles of its manufacturing facilities that strengthen long-term community well-being and sustainability.

Nonprofit organizations in Virginia offering STEM or broader educational programs can apply for US $1,000 - US $20,000 to support schools, skills-training, youth education, and related initiatives. The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation supports IRS-qualified U.S. nonprofits, and Virginia programs with STEM components may be competitive within its wider education and community focus.

Virginia 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving children with physical, medical, or educational challenges can seek funding for K–12 programs, with an emphasis on STEM education, in the Virginia Natural Gas service area. With a mission to support STEM learning, Virginia Natural Gas provides charitable support to eligible organizations across listed Virginia counties and cities.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

Virginia 501(c)(3) nonprofits improving economic stability, workforce readiness, health, or disaster relief in communities where O’Reilly Auto Parts operates can access funding through O'Reilly Automotive Foundation. Eligible organizations may request project, general operating, or capital support for programs serving underserved and underrepresented individuals and families, rather than national networks or government entities.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

Non-sectarian human and social service nonprofits working with disadvantaged people can apply for Gupta Family Foundation grants of US $5,000 - US $250,000, including organizations based in Virginia. With a mission to help people become self-reliant, Gupta Family Foundation provides smaller organizations with support that may complement STEM and other educational programming.

Herndon Foundation provides Virginia 501(c)(3) organizations with funding for STEM education, early childhood learning, and related enrichment programs, offering up to US $25,000 for program, operating, or limited endowment support. Nonprofits, especially in the metro Richmond area, may also receive support for health and human services or cultural and environmental education initiatives.

Virginia 501(c)(3) nonprofits and fiscally sponsored projects offering STEM education, digital skills, or related community programs in Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Stafford, King George, Caroline, or Louisa can apply for grants up to US $300,000. The Community Foundation of Rappahannock River Region also funds sustainability, community development, cultural heritage, and health and wellbeing initiatives that promote opportunity for underserved residents.

Virginia nonprofits supporting underserved youth or adults with STEM and broader education programs can access funding through Carmax Foundation’s Home Office Giving Program. Eligible organizations must serve Chesterfield, Goochland, Henrico, or Richmond and focus on education and workforce success, health and wellness, or resilient communities, including STEM/STEAM initiatives in out-of-school or classroom settings.