Best Washington Grants for Nonprofits in District of Columbia

The Coaching Enhancement Grant - Division II aims to enhance diversity in NCAA coaching by providing financial support for new assistant coaching positions. This grant specifically targets increased representation of ethnic minorities and women in athletics. Selected schools receive funding for three years to cover salaries and benefits, totaling $370,000 annually for up to 21 institutions. Eligible schools must be active NCAA Division II members committed to these diversity efforts.

The Wherewithal Project & Presentation Grant, funded by The Andy Warhol Foundation, supports artists in the DC area with $7,500 grants for innovative projects that will be publicly presented between January and December 2025. This initiative aims to foster unconventional and collaborative practices, enhancing the local arts community. Since its inception in 2019, it has awarded $400,000 to 156 artists and collectives, emphasizing the importance of diverse and experimental art forms.

The NCAA Division II Degree Completion Award provides financial assistance to student-athletes who have exhausted their athletics eligibility, enabling them to complete their first undergraduate degree. Since its inception in 2001, nearly $9 million has supported approximately 1,875 athletes, with a remarkable 90 percent graduation rate among recipients. The award covers tuition costs up to $15,000 for remaining credits and may be used in the summer term or short terms surrounding the final undergraduate year.

The Syringe Service Program Grant, offered by The Comer Family Foundation, aims to enhance harm reduction initiatives by funding syringe access programs across the U.S. These programs provide sterile syringes, education, and support services to mitigate the risks associated with drug use, including HIV and hepatitis transmission. Priority is given to organizations in underserved areas and those led by marginalized communities. Grants are available for operational costs, program development, and staff training, with a focus on sustainability and local partnerships.

The Strategic Alliance Matching Grant by the NCAA Division III aims to bolster ethnic minority and gender representation in senior athletics administration roles. With an annual budget of $1.6 million, it supports up to 46 schools and conferences over five years. Eligible institutions must be active NCAA Division III members and meet various requirements. This grant encourages diversity in leadership, fostering an inclusive environment for student-athletes.

The Coaching Enhancement Grant by the NCAA Division III aims to increase diversity in assistant coaching roles by providing financial support to member institutions. Over two years, selected schools receive $15,000 to cover salaries, requiring a matching contribution. This initiative encourages ethnic minority and gender representation, allowing up to 11 institutions to benefit annually, thus enhancing inclusivity in collegiate sports.

The Consolidated Victim Services RFA provides funding to enhance a comprehensive network of trauma-informed services for crime victims in the District of Columbia. It addresses domestic violence, stalking, and sexual assault while promoting victim safety and offender accountability. Eligible applicants include community-based non-profits and for-profits without profit in their application. Funding sources include VOCA, VAWA, and SASP grants, supporting recovery and navigation through justice processes.

The Consolidated Justice Grants RFA, administered by the District of Columbia Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants (OVSJG), aims to enhance public safety and improve the justice system for crime victims and their families. This initiative provides vital funding to local programs addressing violent crime and criminal justice issues, ensuring compliance with federal and local regulations. By fostering a comprehensive network of support, OVSJG strives to create effective systems of care for the community.

The Field Trip Experiences (FTE) Grant Program, managed by the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities, provides funding for field trip tickets, educator professional development, and workshops. This initiative aims to enhance student achievement in the arts and humanities, fostering collaboration between schools and organizations. By supporting strategic planning and delivery, the program ensures authentic connections to the curriculum while demonstrating measurable impacts on participants. Funding also covers personnel support for effective program implementation.

The General Operating Support Grant, offered by HumanitiesDC, provides crucial unrestricted funds to bolster the humanities sector in Washington, D.C. This grant is targeted at non-profit organizations with a humanities-focused mission and an annual budget of less than $2 million. With an award amount of up to $25,000, it aims to support the sustainability and growth of these organizations, enhancing the vibrant cultural landscape of the city.

The TYLENOL Future Care Scholarship supports students pursuing healthcare careers, continuing a 30-year tradition of helping those dedicated to caring for others. Eligible applicants must be U.S. residents, graduate students or seniors enrolling in graduate school for the 2024-25 academic year, and provide proof of enrollment in an accredited healthcare program. Scholarships cover tuition, fees, and necessary supplies, ensuring that future healthcare professionals receive the support they need.

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.

Direct Investment in Students Grant

Purpose of Funds

Through this RFA, OSSE is soliciting proposals for the Direct Investment in Students grant program from LEAs to launch eligible direct student services. For conciseness, these services will henceforth be referenced and referred to using the following description:

In addition, a local education agency receiving an award may:

• use not more than 1 percent of its award for outreach and communication to parents about available direct student services in the local educational agency and State; and
• use not more than 2 percent of its award for administrative costs related to such direct student services.

The Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation offers Local Impact Grants to nonprofit organizations in 11 markets, providing $225,000 to support local programs addressing community issues. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits with a revenue exceeding $100,000 and must operate in one of the specified television markets. The grants aim to empower youth through education, promote diverse storytelling, and enhance community engagement. This initiative underscores Comcast's commitment to fostering inclusion and equitable opportunities for underserved communities.

The TD Charitable Foundation has been dedicated to improving community quality of life since 2002, contributing over $254 million to non-profit organizations. They fund initiatives aligned with their corporate citizenship goals, focusing on Better Health, Connected Communities, Financial Security, and Vibrant Planet. Special consideration is given to programs that support inclusivity for diverse and historically underserved communities. Their commitment to enhancing lives through targeted grants reflects their core values and social responsibility.

The Delaplaine Foundation Grant is a private family foundation based in Frederick, Maryland, dedicated to enriching communities through support for non-profit organizations focused on cultural arts, education, health, historical preservation, and spiritual enlightenment. With a commitment to local impact, it primarily awards funding in Frederick County, while also considering applications from nearby states and beyond. Eligible organizations must be recognized as tax-exempt public charities under IRS regulations.

The California Casualty Music & Arts Grant supports K-12 public schools facing budget cuts that threaten their music and arts programs. Eligible applicants, who must be active employees of public K-12 schools and members of specified educator associations, can request grants of $250 for music or arts needs. This initiative aims to enhance creative education across the states, excluding AK, HI, MA, MI, NY, and WI. Applications received by July 15 will be notified by November 30.

The Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation offers general grants aimed at promoting arts, education, and environmental initiatives. Currently, they are not accepting applications for 2025 but will reopen in January 2026. Eligible organizations must be IRS-registered 501(c)(3) entities serving specific regions, with a focus on environmental, medical, and veterans initiatives. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with its mission and provides opportunities for quality arts programming.

Pharmacy Wellness Hub: Diabetes Prevention, Management and Self Measured Blood Pressure (SMBP) Programs

This funding opportunity supports pharmacies who are implementing and evaluating evidence-based and evidence-informed strategies to prevent and manage diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the District of Columbia. Specific emphasis is placed on the prevention and control of hypertension and diabetes.

General Operating Support (GOS)

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (CAH) is soliciting applications from qualified arts, humanities, or arts education organizations for its Fiscal Year 2027 General Operating Support Grant Program (GOS). Award amounts vary. An award to an individual organization with an annual operating budget exceeding $115,000 may not exceed 50% of the organization's annual operating budget exclusive of funds granted by the Commission on the Arts and Humanities.

Applicants may submit one (1) grant application to this program per fiscal year cycle.

• Single Year Applicants
• Multi-year Applicants
• Capacity Building Applicants

Capacity Building Applicants

Applicant organizations must not have previously received a competitive grant award from CAH.

This category consists of arts and humanities organizations whose primary purpose is to present and/or produce arts and humanities experiences for the residents of, and visitors to, the District of Columbia. This cohort will support arts and humanities organizations that have not previously been awarded a competitive grant by CAH. Organizations must have been in operation for at least one year by the start of the fiscal year to which they are applying. Capacity Building needs can include but are not limited to staff training, longer organizational initiatives, and sector-strengthening that increases access and awareness of programs for the DC community. 

General Operating Support (GOS)

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (CAH) is soliciting applications from qualified arts, humanities, or arts education organizations for its Fiscal Year 2027 General Operating Support Grant Program (GOS). Award amounts vary. An award to an individual organization with an annual operating budget exceeding $115,000 may not exceed 50% of the organization's annual operating budget exclusive of funds granted by the Commission on the Arts and Humanities.

Applicants may submit one (1) grant application to this program per fiscal year cycle.

• Single Year Applicants
• Multi-year Applicants
• Capacity Building Applicants

Multi-year Applicants

Applicant organization must have received funding through CAH’s GOS Single Year grant program in FY26. Additionally, applicant organization must have received funding for two additional years in one of CAH’s GOS grant programs between FY22 and FY25.

Organizations in receipt of funding through GOS in the FY26 cycle along with funding for two yearsof GOS grant cycles between FY22 and FY25 are eligible to apply to the multi-year cycle. All applicants to this cohort will undergo internal compliance review but will not be paneled by a peer review committee. Should applicant organizations be deemed eligible, CAH will endeavor to fund them as close to the funding level received in their FY26 award. Organizations must reapply to the GOS program as Single Year applicants following the second year of multi-year funding. There is no third year of multi-year funding.

Our Mission

We are dedicated to empowering organizations that promote the arts and develop programs designed to inspire, educate, and engage. Our vision is a world where the arts are not viewed as a luxury or elective, but as a vital part of every individual’s development and well-being.

Through strong community partnerships, we harness the transformative power of the arts to elevate educational outcomes, foster creativity, and enhance quality of life.

We believe in the synergy that arises when artists, educators, advocates, and creatives from all disciplines—musicians, museum professionals, actors, writers, and teachers—come together and collaborate. It is scientifically proven that the arts play a fundamental role in youth development, nurturing healthy brain function, social growth, and emotional resilience.

Aligned with our mission, we also support initiatives that protect and utilize nature as a source of enrichment and healing. Conservation and beautification efforts are not only essential to environmental health but also to individual and community well-being. Research consistently shows that time spent in nature supports both physical and mental health, especially for children. We are committed to partnering with organizations that recognize the vital connection between a thriving natural environment and a thriving population.

Equally important is our dedication to supporting veterans. We recognize the sacrifices made by servicemen and women and believe they deserve meaningful pathways to recovery, healing, and renewed purpose. That’s why we invest in programs that provide therapeutic support, service animals, respite opportunities, and community-centered initiatives that help veterans and their families thrive. Veterans’ well-being is not only a moral imperative but also a cornerstone of a strong, resilient community.

As a charitable foundation, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that drive progress, improve lives, and create lasting, positive impact across the arts, the environment, education, and veteran support.

The P/Arts Program

The P/Arts Program was created to strengthen connections between the philanthropic, arts, and education communities, fostering meaningful collaborations that enrich learning and inspire growth.

Eligible applicants must be accredited 501(c)(3) organizations that integrate visual and/or performing arts education into their work. Through P/Arts, we seek to support programs that:

• Revitalize learning by enhancing and transforming outdated public school curricula.
• Motivate and inspire students of all ages, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning.
• Empower educators by deepening professional development opportunities for teachers, professors, and childcare providers.
• Bridge the gap between school and home, creating continuity in learning and support for children and families.
• Apply evidence-based, arts-based instruction proven to strengthen both academic and personal outcomes.
• Address inequities in education by helping to close the achievement gap and expand access to high-quality learning opportunities.

At its heart, the P/Arts Program reflects our belief that the arts are a powerful driver of educational transformation, unlocking potential not just in the classroom but in entire communities.

The Competitive Graduate Research Fellowship, offered by Maryland Sea Grant, supports graduate students conducting research on critical issues affecting the Chesapeake Bay and coastal waters. This fellowship emphasizes social relevance and community engagement, particularly focusing on underserved populations. Awarded fellows receive a stipend of $34,000, tuition remission, and travel allowance. A professional mentor is required to ensure research aligns with the needs of resource managers and policy makers. Applications are encouraged from a diverse pool of candidates.

The Garden Club of America Award in Coastal Wetlands Studies supports graduate students engaged in coastal wetlands research. Established through the Rockefeller Environmental Education Fund, this scholarship promotes conservation by funding field work in tidal and nontidal wetlands across coastal states, including the Great Lakes. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. graduate program and can propose their own wetlands study. The award aims to foster environmental education and scientific inquiry in this vital ecosystem.

Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development 

The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) assists the Mayor in the coordination, planning, supervision, and execution of economic development efforts in the District of Columbia with the goal of creating and preserving affordable housing, creating jobs, and increasing tax revenue. DMPED pursues policies and programs that create strong neighborhoods, expand and diversify the local economy, and provide residents with pathways to the middle class.

 Washington, DC Global Soft Landing Grant 

The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (“DMPED”) invites the submission of applications from qualified organizations for a grant under the Washington, DC Global Soft Landing (“GSL”) initiative (the “Program”). The purpose of the GSL Initiative is to support international entrepreneurs, startups, and companies seeking to establish operations in the District of Columbia (“District”).

The GSL initiative connects international entrepreneurs and startups to a network of economic developers, local government, universities, chambers of commerce, and business service providers to support a successful market entry into Washington, DC. Through the Program, DMPED intends to award funds to a Program Operator to manage and coordinate a comprehensive suite of services for international companies navigating the U.S. market entry process (“Project”). Grant funds are intended to support the day-to-day operations of the GSL initiative, as further outlined in the RFA.

The District of Columbia Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is inviting applications for projects aimed at restoring publicly-owned parks and natural areas. With a funding pool of $184,000, the initiative seeks to engage eligible entities in removing trash and invasive species while enhancing community involvement in preserving these green spaces. Awards will range from $50,000 to a maximum of three grants, promoting sustainable practices within local urban environments.

The Ward 7 Public Space Activation Grant, offered by the District of Columbia Office of Planning, aims to enhance public spaces and boost local commerce in Ward 7. Eligible organizations can apply to create vibrant environments through art installations, community events, and necessary infrastructure. This initiative fosters inclusivity and engagement, ensuring that all residents can benefit from improved public spaces, which are essential for community well-being and economic growth. Applications are welcomed from qualified entities with relevant experience.