Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Washington

The Somatic Mosaicism across Human Tissues (SMaHT) Program aims to enhance our understanding of somatic mutations and their impact on human biology and disease. This initiative will establish a Tissue Procurement Center (TPC) to collect and provide clinically relevant tissue samples from a diverse set of healthy donors. The TPC will support ongoing research by ensuring high-quality, well-characterized specimens are available for functional analyses, advancing the field of somatic mosaicism.

The Somatic Mosaicism across Human Tissues (SMaHT) Program aims to uncover biological processes and disease mechanisms influenced by somatic mutations. Since its inception in 2023, it has produced valuable multi-omic datasets from diverse human tissues. The upcoming Stage 2 Genome Characterization Centers will focus on understanding the impact of these mutations in both healthy and clinically significant samples, enhancing our knowledge of somatic mosaicism's role in human health and disease.

In collaboration with Cummins Inc., the American Library Association (ALA) invites applications from U.S. public libraries to participate in A Year of STEM, 12 months of curated STEM programming to foster curiosity and STEM-mindedness in early childhood learners across the country. 

Twenty-five libraries will be chosen to participate in A Year of STEM, receiving professional development to prepare them for the project, copies of a newly created A Year of STEM programming guide developed by librarian advisors, a $5,000 programming stipend, four STEM kits (to be delivered quarterly), and support from ALA’s Public Programs Office staff throughout the project implementation period.

Women Create Foundation Grants

Empowering women creators.

About

Women Create, LLC is the publisher of two industry leading magazines, Where Women Create and What women Create. Every issue of WHAT & WHERE includes in-depth features about women from diverse geographies and backgrounds, the mediums they use and the projects and studios that support their passion.

Through our search for women artist/creators, we’ve seen the significant barriers and disparities in accessing funding they face to nurture their visions. The Women Create Foundation was created with the mission to empower women creators through grants that help bring projects to life and foster innovation.

The grant amounts vary depending on the artist’s needs. Financial awards typically range from $500-$2,000.

The Fund for a Just Society Grant, offered by the Unitarian Universalist Association, supports nonprofit organizations that focus on social and economic justice through community organizing. This grant prioritizes innovative projects that seek systemic change and empower disenfranchised communities. Eligible organizations must operate with an annual budget under $500,000 and demonstrate a clear campaign for change. This funding aims to foster a more just society by addressing root causes and enhancing visibility for Unitarian Universalist principles.

The Fund for UU Social Responsibility Grant supports Unitarian Universalist organizations in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, focusing on social justice, community engagement, and fostering generosity. With backing from the Unitarian Universalist Association, the program encourages innovative projects that promote the values of Unitarian Universalism while enhancing community involvement. Grants are typically for one year, with potential for renewal based on project success and community impact.

Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center Inc.

The Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center litigates, educates, advocates, and provides grants to nonprofits to eradicate social injustices. 

We pursue litigation through our own efforts as well as funding others in the following fifteen issue areas: Access to Benefits, Children’s Rights, Disability Rights, Discrimination, Domestic Violence, Due Process, Environmental Justice, Healthcare, Homelessness, Housing, Native American Rights, Prisoners’ Rights, Refugee and Immigration Rights, Voting Rights, and Veterans’ Rights.

Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center Grant

We make grants to organizations that undertake systemic social justice litigation across fifteen issue areas. The Center funds litigation matters that are consistent with our namesake Barbara McDowell’s past legal efforts and her beliefs regarding social justice.

Applications must be for a specific social justice legal case, including the filing of an appeal. Grant funds are to be used only for attorney time charges and litigation expenses related to the specific case for which an organization is applying to be funded. 

The Catholic Campaign for Human Development's Community Development Grant Program provides funding between $25,000 and $75,000 to support community-led initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty. Established by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, the program emphasizes the dignity of human life and encourages low-income individuals to take an active role in addressing systemic issues. Grants are awarded to organizations that align with Catholic values and demonstrate effective participation of impoverished communities in decision-making processes.

The Hardin County Principal Organization Scholarship, offered by the Central Kentucky Community Foundation, aims to support graduating seniors from Hardin County Schools who plan to pursue a career in education. Applicants must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. This scholarship serves as a stepping stone for future educators, ensuring they have the financial resources to achieve their academic goals and contribute positively to their communities.

The Laura Bush Foundation for America’s Libraries offers financial support to underfunded schools to enhance their library collections, promoting literacy and a passion for reading. Eligible applicants include Title 1 public schools and private institutions with at least 50% of students qualifying for financial aid. The grant funds can be utilized exclusively for books, periodicals, and subscriptions, ensuring that all students have access to diverse reading materials. Applications require a designated librarian and completion of necessary documentation.

The Byron and Alice Lockwood Foundation, established in 1968, is dedicated to supporting charitable organizations in the Greater Seattle Area. Founded by Paul Cressman Sr., it honors the legacy of Byron and Alice Lockwood, who were passionate about community service. The foundation focuses on grants that enhance education, health, and human services, ensuring that contributions yield significant community impact. With a history of supporting emerging talent, it aims to make a difference through strategic funding.

The Leadership Education in Adolescent Health (LEAH) Program, funded by the US HHS: Health Resources & Services Administration, aims to enhance the quality of care for adolescents and young adults. By establishing graduate training programs, LEAH prepares healthcare professionals to effectively address chronic disease prevention and improve access to team-based healthcare services for this population, ultimately fostering better health outcomes and empowering future leaders in adolescent health.

The FY 2027 Service Area Competition (SAC) funding aims to enhance healthcare access in underserved communities across the U.S. by providing grants for comprehensive primary and preventive health services. This initiative addresses essential health needs through competitive funding opportunities, ensuring that health centers can effectively serve their designated areas. Additional service areas may be announced as needed if current centers are unable to continue their operations, thus maintaining service continuity.

The FY 2027 Service Area Competition (SAC) aims to enhance health services in underserved communities across the U.S. and its territories. This funding opportunity supports comprehensive preventive and primary health care delivery. Each SAC announcement details service areas available for competition, with potential additional areas announced throughout the year. This initiative is crucial for ensuring continuous access to quality health care for vulnerable populations.

The FY 2027 Service Area Competition (SAC) funding aims to enhance health services in underserved communities across the U.S. by providing grants for comprehensive preventive and primary health care. The initiative supports health centers in delivering essential services, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the care they need. Service areas for competition are announced periodically, and additional areas may be added if existing centers are unable to continue their services.

The BJA FY26 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement - Formula Grants Program supports state agencies in enhancing forensic science capabilities. The program aims to improve public safety by funding initiatives that strengthen forensic science and support law enforcement efforts. Eligible applicants can submit their full applications through JustGrants by November 6, 2026. This funding is crucial for addressing ongoing challenges in the justice system, including violent crime and public safety concerns.

About Us

The Wenner-Gren Foundation is a private operating foundation dedicated to providing leadership in support of anthropology and anthropologists worldwide.

Our Mission

The Wenner-Gren Foundation is committed to playing a leadership role in anthropology. We help anthropologists advance anthropological knowledge, build sustainable careers, and amplify the impact of anthropology within the wider world. We dedicate ourselves to broadening the conversation in anthropology to reflect the full diversity of the field.

Hunt Fellowship in Public Writing

General

Anthropologists have important stories to tell about human lives, histories, societies, and futures. Yet many scholars lack the time and resources needed to translate their research into books that reach readers beyond the academy. The Hunt Fellowship in Public Writing supports anthropologists who are writing serious nonfiction books for general audiences.

This program is designed to encourage public writing that brings anthropological knowledge into wider conversations. The Foundation welcomes book projects that are intellectually ambitious, grounded in substantial research, and written in ways that invite nonacademic readers to explore anthropological questions, evidence, and insight. We are interested in projects that demonstrate how anthropological writing can shape public understanding, contribute to urgent debates, and expand the audiences for anthropological work.

The fellowship supports scholars pursuing a book-length project for broad audiences. Through this award, the Foundation seeks to raise the status of public writing within anthropology, especially for earlier career scholars, and promote its recognition in hiring, tenure, promotion, and other forms of professional evaluation.

There is no preference for any methodology, research location, or subfield.

The NIH Common Fund Data Ecosystem aims to enhance the reusability of biomedical data through collaboration between Common Fund programs and external data resources. This funding opportunity encourages projects that connect various biomedical data ecosystems, including the HEAL Data Ecosystem and the BRAIN Initiative. By fostering partnerships, the initiative seeks to improve the accessibility and interoperability of valuable datasets, ultimately advancing research efforts. Note that clinical trials are excluded from this funding opportunity.

About PLTW Computer SciencePLTW Computer Science students are technology trailblazers who are empowered through transportable skills and prepared to start their career, whether that is in computer science or not.

Lockheed Martin has committed funds to support PLTW grants to schools interested in adding PLTW.

Since 2007, Lockheed Martin has partnered with PLTW to address the nation's critical need for future engineers, computer scientists, and math- and science-trained professionals, and to equip all students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive. Lockheed Martin supports PLTW programs in school districts across the nation and has contributed to the development of PLTW's middle school and high school courses focused on aerospace engineering and flight. Since the first school district partnership in 2014, over 855 PLTW programs have been implemented and more than 145,328 students have gained access to PLTW.Program Requirements:

• Grantee must use their grant funds to expand their existing PLTW Computer Science program.
  • Example expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Computer Science course not previously offered,
  • and/or adding additional class periods of an existing PLTW Computer Science courses previously offered,
  • and/or training additional teachers in PLTW Computer Science courses for the 2027-2028 academic year. 

Grant Award and Distribution Schedule:

• Total Award: $10,000
  • 2027-2028: $10,000

About PLTW Computer SciencePLTW Computer Science students are technology trailblazers who are empowered through transportable skills and prepared to start their career, whether that is in computer science or not.

Lockheed Martin has committed funds to support PLTW grants to schools interested in adding PLTW.Since 2007, Lockheed Martin has partnered with PLTW to address the nation's critical need for future engineers, computer scientists, and math- and science-trained professionals, and to equip all students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive. Lockheed Martin supports PLTW programs in school districts across the nation and has contributed to the development of PLTW's middle school and high school courses focused on aerospace engineering and flight. Since the first school district partnership in 2014, over 855 PLTW programs have been implemented and more than 145,328 students have gained access to PLTW.Program Requirements:

• Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Computer Science course in the 2027-2028 academic year.
• Grantee may implement any PLTW Computer Science course of their choosing

Grant Award and Distribution Schedule:

• Total Award: $10,000
  • 2027-2028: $10,000

The Planetary Science Enabling Facilities (PSEF) program by NASA invites proposals for research facilities that support the Planetary Science Division. It aims to enhance scientific collaboration and innovation by providing resources to a diverse range of institutions, including emerging and undergraduate colleges. Proposals should highlight the scientific merit and community need for these facilities, ensuring that they serve a broad user base committed to advancing planetary science.

The Brave Heart Foundation Grant aims to uplift underserved populations, focusing on children and families through education, health, and community action. With a commitment to funding impactful programs in Indiana, the Foundation prioritizes organizations that demonstrate clear community benefits. Larger funding requests are accepted from previously funded agencies, ensuring continuity and accountability. This grant serves as a vital resource for initiatives that enhance the well-being of those in need, fostering positive change within local communities.

The scholarships and fellowships provide recipients with the opportunity to attend and explore the operation of the field at the NRPA Annual Conference. A primary focus is to inspire future participation and leadership in NRPA and to develop professional contacts with leadership and members from around the nation. Recipients receive complimentary NRPA Annual Conference registration and a travel stipend.

Young Professional Fellowships

The fellowship provides selected young professionals (up to 4) with the opportunity to explore the operation of NRPA and its governing bodies at the NRPA Annual Conference through the support of Sourcewell. Participants will meet with mentors, be recognized at the awards ceremony and attend various conference sessions and meetings. A primary focus of the program is to inspire future participation and leadership in NRPA and to develop professional contacts.

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation and KidsGardening offer the GroMoreGood Grassroots Grant to enhance community gardens across the U.S. This initiative supports programs that engage under-resourced communities, focusing on youth participation. In 2026, 120 grants of $750 will be awarded, with additional funding opportunities available through specialty awards for programs addressing specific needs, including those serving LGBTQ+ youth and communities of color.

About SCAF

The Stanwood-Camano Area Foundation strengthens our community by empowering nonprofits, fostering community involvement, and providing educational opportunities through collaboration and giving.

We live, work, and give within the Stanwood-Camano community. We intimately understand its evolving needs, from supporting local school programs to helping the newest grassroots nonprofits get established.

The Floyd & Delores Jones Endowed Fund Grant

The Floyd & Delores Jones Endowed Fund Grant Program provides funding to nonprofit organizations and public agencies with projects that directly benefit the Stanwood-Camano community. Grants are available for new initiatives, operating funds for start-ups, or community-focused projects that align with SCAF’s mission.

Available Funds

Grant requests up to $10,000 will be considered

About SCAF

The Stanwood-Camano Area Foundation strengthens our community by empowering nonprofits, fostering community involvement, and providing educational opportunities through collaboration and giving.

We live, work, and give within the Stanwood-Camano community. We intimately understand its evolving needs, from supporting local school programs to helping the newest grassroots nonprofits get established.

Stanwood-Camano Area Foundation: Capital Grants

SCAF believes that strategic investments in capital projects are a benefit to the community as a whole, and align with our mission in multiple ways.

Available Funds

Capital grant funding requests of $5,000 - $100,000 will be considered.

The Capacity Building Grants for Non-Land-Grant Colleges of Agriculture Program, administered by the USDA's NIFA, aims to enhance the capabilities of eligible institutions in agriculture and related fields. By providing financial support, the program encourages institutions to compete for federal funding, disseminate vital information, and foster community engagement in educational and research initiatives. This initiative is crucial for developing infrastructure, promoting faculty development, and establishing graduate assistantships to address national and regional agricultural priorities.