Best Grants for Community Centers in Washington

Healthy Kids-Healthy Schools Grants

Funds for this grant are available in two categories: physical education/physical activity and nutrition. The nutrition category includes but is not limited to, renovations or repairs, new purchases and improvements to cafeteria and kitchen equipment, and spaces, water bottle filling stations, garden-related structures, and greenhouses. Garden related and greenhouse projects must provide students access to fresh produce. The physical education and physical activity category includes, but is not limited to, physical education renovation, indoor or outdoor physical education equipment, playground equipment, covered play areas, related structures and renovations. Prior to applying, districts must consider their ability to sustain improvements over time. Districts receiving funding must also demonstrate a consistent commitment to addressing school facilities’ needs. Grants will be awarded on a competitive basis. No single district may receive more than $200,000.

Grant Process Key Points

• There is no district leveraged or matching funds requirement.
• Grants are for procurement of equipment, repair, and renovation of existing equipment or facilities, or design and construction of new facility space and infrastructure related to the categories listed above.
• In-house labor costs will not be reimbursed.
• For more information including scoring criteria, see Form Package 505.

The Community Firearm Violence Intervention and Prevention Grants (CFVIP) by the Washington State Department of Commerce aim to enhance public safety through targeted initiatives in communities disproportionately affected by gun violence. The program prioritizes youth and young adults at high risk, encouraging evidence-based, culturally relevant strategies. With a funding cap of $8 million, grants range from $400,000 for single organizations to $800,000 for collaborative efforts, fostering community-led solutions to reduce firearm violence.

Department of Children, Youth, and Families

DCYF is a cabinet-level agency that works to support children, youth, and families. It oversees the state’s child welfare, juvenile rehabilitation, and early care and education programs. Our work is focused on prevention and better outcomes for children, youth, and families. 

Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention Capacity Building Funding Opportunity

The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) requests applications from Washington State organizations to provide new, innovative, or expanded primary or secondary Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention programs while enhancing their program evaluation capacity. Organizations aiming to bolster their knowledge, understanding, and application of program evaluation are encouraged to submit a Letter of Intent (LOI).

Priority will be given to organizations who can demonstrate that the activities proposed in their application are needed in their community and will be impactful on the focus population. This may include organizations who are able to address documented needs in a community that has a lack of services for their focus population.

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Fund for Community Good supports projects that promote equity and justice across various sectors, including education, health, and economic prosperity. This unrestricted fund invites partnerships with 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, primarily focusing on Kent County, Michigan. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusive opportunities, ensuring all community members can thrive. Eligible applicants can submit pre-applications year-round for potential funding.

Cambia Health Foundation is dedicated to enhancing healthcare experiences through its RFP, which aims to support older adult kinship and grand-family caregivers. By promoting strategies that strengthen social connections and improve access to mental health services, the foundation seeks to address the unique challenges faced by these caregivers. The initiative encourages tailored proposals that reflect the diverse needs of kinship families, ultimately fostering a more interconnected and supportive community for aging individuals.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

The General Operating Support for Large Organizations Grant provides two years of funding to arts organizations in Washington State, aiming to cover day-to-day operational costs. With a focus on equity, funding will be distributed based on priorities that emphasize cultural diversity and community engagement. Eligible organizations can request up to $6,000, distributed in two equal payments. This grant is designed to support the growing creative sector while maintaining accessibility for underserved communities.

The Asian Cultural Council's Graduate Fellowship provides financial support for travel and living expenses to graduate students from Asia studying in the U.S. It offers $15,000 for one academic year, potentially renewable for another year, covering essential costs while pursuing full-time coursework. This initiative fosters international cultural exchange and enhances academic training in the arts. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in accredited graduate programs and commit to at least two consecutive semesters of study.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers a variety of scholarships for students in the Dietetic Technician Program, with over 250 scholarships available. Ranging from $500 to $25,000, these scholarships help support aspiring dietetic professionals. Applicants need to complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships based on eligibility. Membership in the Academy is encouraged but not mandatory for applying.

The Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) Program is a federal initiative aimed at enhancing and upgrading boating facilities for recreational boats of 26 feet or larger. It provides funding for projects such as renovating guest docks, installing utilities, and constructing moorage docks and floats. Additionally, grants may support boater education initiatives, promoting safe and enjoyable boating experiences.

The Washington Recreational Trails Grant Program funds the rehabilitation and maintenance of trails, ensuring a backcountry experience free from human development. It supports diverse trail activities including hiking, biking, and motorized recreation. Typical projects involve clearing trails, repairing damage from natural events, and enhancing trail facilities. Grants are available up to $150,000, with a commitment to maintain facilities for 25 years. This initiative promotes environmental compliance and is open to various agencies and organizations.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for dietetic interns, allowing a single application to apply for multiple awards. Scholarships range from $500 to $25,000, with eligibility for interns enrolled through June 30, 2024, including those with off-cycle matches. Applicants should consider their career goals in areas like clinical dietetics, culinary arts, and nutrition education. Academy membership is encouraged but not required. Fundraising determines the number of scholarships available each year.

The Career & Technical Scholarship (CTS) is a vital initiative by the Washington State Opportunity Foundation, providing up to $1,500 per quarter to support Washington residents pursuing associate degrees, certificates, or apprenticeships in high-demand STEM and trade careers. This scholarship aims to promote equitable access to education for historically excluded students while addressing workforce needs. Beyond tuition, CTS funding can cover essential costs like housing and transportation, fostering a more inclusive talent pool for Washington's businesses.

The Northeast SARE Partnership Grant Program supports innovative projects that enhance sustainable agriculture practices through collaboration between agricultural service providers and farmers. With funding up to $30,000, the program encourages research and education initiatives that address sustainability challenges in Northeast farming systems. It aims to foster partnerships that lead to better agricultural practices and community well-being, focusing on involving farmers directly in project development.

The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program, in partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), aims to enhance the quality, safety, and accessibility of community football fields. With grants up to $250,000, this initiative addresses the critical lack of safe recreation spaces in low-income neighborhoods, ensuring children and adults have access to well-maintained facilities for gathering and exercise, ultimately fostering community health and well-being.

The External Collaborative Research Grants by Boehringer Ingelheim support academic and clinical scientists in proposing research studies. These grants facilitate collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, which may provide intellectual and financial support. Applicants must assume full responsibility for their research while complying with regulatory standards. The funding should cover research costs, excluding salary support for the collaborative partner. Interested investigators must apply online for consideration.

The WAEF Scholarships, supported by the Washington Apple Education Foundation, provide critical financial aid to over 300 students this year, disbursing more than $1 million in educational awards. Open to individuals with ties to Washington Fruit & Produce, the scholarships cater to high school seniors and college students pursuing various degrees at accredited institutions. This initiative highlights the foundation's commitment to fostering education within the tree fruit industry, making higher education accessible to deserving candidates.

The WAEF Scholarships by the Washington Apple Education Foundation support over 300 students annually, providing more than $1 million in educational awards. These scholarships are primarily available to high school seniors and college students connected to the tree fruit industry. Eligible applicants are those employed by or whose parents work for Olympic Fruit, pursuing degrees at accredited institutions. This program fosters educational growth in the agricultural sector, benefiting families linked to the Washington tree fruit industry.

The Chelan County Fire District #1 Volunteer Association Scholarship, established in 1993, supports members and their families in pursuing educational opportunities. Funded by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, this scholarship aims to recognize and reward students demonstrating academic and technical skills. Eligible candidates include active or retired members and their spouses, children, or grandchildren. The scholarship promotes lifelong learning and community service, ensuring a lasting impact on the lives of recipients.

The Social Impact Theatre Grant Program supports innovative theatrical productions that address pressing social issues, fostering dialogue and community engagement. With a focus on sustainability, the program offers production-specific and change capital grants to eligible nonprofit organizations in select states. Grantees are encouraged to explore new models, deepen community connections, and support emerging leaders in theatre. Applications for the next cycle will open in Spring 2025, following the completion of the current funding round.

The Western SARE Professional Development Program Grant supports education and outreach for agricultural professionals. Aimed at enhancing knowledge in sustainable agriculture, it provides funding for projects that train educators and farmers through workshops, conferences, and digital media. With a focus on the environmental, economic, and social aspects of agriculture, projects can last up to three years and receive up to $100,000 in funding. This initiative fosters a 'train the trainer' approach to improve agricultural practices.

Financial Education Grants provides grants to deliver financial education programs to all people who live in Washington State. DFI is committed to providing financial education to Washington residents. It is our belief that by providing financial education information we can help consumers be better-informed and less likely to become victims of fraud, predatory lending, or other financial scams.

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) provides regulatory oversight for our state’s financial service providers. DFI is self-supporting. Its operating revenues are paid by the organizations and individuals it regulates.

The Department of Financial Institutions protects consumers and advances the financial health of Washington State by providing fair regulation of financial services and educating consumers to make informed financial decisions.

Leading the way in consumer protection and financial services regulation.

The agency has adopted the following core values:

• People First

• Trust

• Innovation

• Accountability

• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

The Legal Foundation of Washington offers Partnership Grants to support civil legal aid organizations serving low-income individuals across the state. These grants provide essential operating funds, promoting stability and encouraging long-term planning within the civil justice sector. By partnering with organizations focused on direct legal aid and systemic advocacy, LFW aims to enhance equity in access to justice. The application process includes a Letter of Intent, with funding decisions influenced by previous awards and the overall impact on legal aid coverage.

The Sabbatical Research and Education Grant, offered by Western SARE, enables faculty worldwide to collaborate with farmers and researchers in the Western U.S. This program focuses on conducting innovative research and educational outreach in underserved regions, with an emphasis on unexplored topics. Grants up to $75,000 are available for projects spanning one year, promoting agricultural sustainability and community involvement.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Washington support eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that compromise safe drinking water availability. These grants assist in addressing issues caused by drought, floods, earthquakes, and other disasters. The program funds water transmission line repairs and construction of new water sources, helping restore access to clean water in rural areas, benefiting households and local businesses.

The Heritage Capital Projects (HCP) grant is for facilities projects that provide public access to history and  support the capital needs of facilities and organizations that preserve and interpret Washington’s history and heritage. Since 1995, HCP has distributed more than $106 million in capital grants to support more than 421 community history facilities and historic landscapes.  HCP follows the legislative two-year (biennium) cycle with applications opening in Jan/Feb of each even-numbered year. Applicants must first pass an Eligibility review (Stage 1) to be able to submit a full proposal (Stage 2). 

This funding opportunity invites innovative pilot studies focused on biological, behavioral, and social mechanisms related to HIV pathogenesis, aligning with NIDDK's mission and NIH HIV/AIDS research priorities. Topics may include exploring pathophysiological mechanisms of HIV comorbidities and coinfections, understanding HIV reservoirs in relevant tissues, and examining social determinants affecting health outcomes. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.