Best Transportation Grants in Washington

Focused on public transportation infrastructure, this program invites Washington transit agencies to seek funding to replace, expand, or rehabilitate buses and related facilities. Grants from Washington State Department of Transportation also support facility construction, modifications, and technology upgrades, backed by anticipated Climate Commitment Act funding for the 2025–2027 biennium.

Local governments, tribes, chambers, destination organizations, and other tourism-focused nonprofits in Washington can apply for Washington Tourism Alliance’s Tourism Regeneration Grant, offering up to US $40,000 for tourism infrastructure, outdoor recreation, transportation access, and visitor experience projects. Funding can support bike and pedestrian improvements, parking and transportation strategies, wayfinding, and downtown beautification that enhance sustainable travel.

Federally recognized tribes in Washington can fund transit-related planning, vehicles and equipment, operations, mobility management, and small construction projects up to US $2,500,000. With a mission to support public transportation and tribal mobility, Washington State Department of Transportation provides state-funded support through the Tribal Transit Mobility Grant Program.

Public agencies and transit providers in Washington can apply for the Washington State Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Grant Program, which funds rural and tribal public transportation, intercity services, new buses and equipment, and transit for seniors and people with disabilities. Projects improving public transportation and mobility across the state may be supported.

Organizations planning zero-emission carshare pilot programs in underserved Washington communities can seek US $50,000 - US $200,000 per project to expand clean transportation access. Grants from Washington State Department of Transportation help Washington public transportation and mass transit efforts serve low- to moderate-income areas with limited transit options or high emissions, with a 10% match required.

The Whatcom Community Foundation is offering Health & Wellness Grants to local nonprofits in Whatcom County. These mini grants, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, aim to tackle staff fatigue and burnout. Eligible organizations can propose various initiatives including wellness programs, ergonomic improvements, and staff retreats. The funding is designed to enhance physical and mental health, foster a positive work environment, and ultimately improve job satisfaction among nonprofit teams.

State and local governments, counties, Tribal governments, transit agencies, and port authorities in Washington can seek funding for major surface transportation infrastructure projects with significant local or regional impact. The US Department of Transportation’s BUILD program offers up to US $25,000,000 for multi-modal, multi-jurisdictional public transportation and other public infrastructure projects across the U.S. and territories.

The Smart Growth America Community Connectors Grant Program supports small and mid-sized cities in addressing divisive infrastructure caused by dangerous roads. With funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this program aims to reconnect communities through temporary street safety projects while fostering skills and partnerships. Eligible teams must represent populations of 50,000 to 500,000 and include both government and community-based organizations. Priority will be given to projects benefiting low-income communities historically affected by disinvestment.

Washington emergency and medical workers needing help affording behavioral health prescriptions, counseling, psychotherapy, or related transportation can access funding through the HealthWell Foundation’s Emergency/Medical Workers Behavioral Health Fund. Eligible U.S. workers with qualifying insurance and incomes within HealthWell guidelines may receive up to US $2,000 toward covered copays and treatment-related travel, which can support transportation-focused programs.

Tyson Foods invites sponsorship proposals that reflect its core values and contribute to community welfare, particularly in Springdale, Arkansas, and Dakota Dunes, South Dakota. Proposals should demonstrate clear community benefits, visibility of the event, and outline how funds will be utilized effectively. Organizations are encouraged to apply if they align with Tyson's mission of integrity and stewardship, ensuring that funding can support primary objectives while considering tax-deductible options.

Individuals in the U.S. with cancer-related behavioral health needs can receive up to US $2,000 to offset prescription copays, counseling, psychotherapy, and transportation costs. Healthwell Foundation supports access to these services, and Washington residents who meet its medical, insurance, and income guidelines may be eligible for this transportation-related assistance.

Elderly professional blues musicians needing help with transportation, medical, or basic living expenses can receive emergency assistance, including support for trips to health services and grocery or pharmacy stores. Pinetop Perkins Foundation provides this U.S.-wide support, which may benefit Washington artists facing urgent transportation or health-related needs.

The Hypertherm Good Neighbor Grant, offered by the HOPE Foundation, provides financial support of up to $500 to non-profit organizations. Founded in 2010, the Foundation aims to foster collaboration and sustainable change within communities. Grant allocations are made quarterly by a team of volunteer Associates, ensuring alignment with the Foundation's mission of respect and inclusivity. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) or educational entities focused on health, education, and environmental initiatives in specific geographic areas.

The Hypertherm HOPE Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations with a mission to create sustainable, positive change in communities. Established in 2010, the foundation prioritizes projects in areas like disaster relief, education, and health. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and align with the foundation's values of respect and inclusivity. Grant decisions are made by HOPE teams composed of Hypertherm Associates across various regions, ensuring local needs are met effectively.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, academic institutions, and government entities preserving pre-1945 transportation history can seek funding to install historic markers at publicly accessible sites, including in Washington. With a mission to honor historic transportation, William G Pomeroy Foundation provides support for markers recognizing canals, bridges, tunnels, railroads, and aircraft used to move people and goods.

The Community Sustaining Fund Grant supports innovative projects that strengthen communities and the environment in Thurston County. With over 36 years of experience, the fund has awarded more than $125,000 to over 200 local organizations and individuals. CSF prioritizes grants for grassroots initiatives that promote social justice, community building, and environmental sustainability. This program embodies a commitment to diversity, equity, and community-driven solutions, fostering a vibrant and resilient local ecosystem.

Individual artists in Washington or Oregon working in illustrative storytelling, cartooning, comics, or related visual media can apply for 4Culture’s Moving Stories opportunity; awards US $54,000 per artist to create short-form graphic novels. Selected artists will develop transit-themed visual narratives for King County Metro’s RapidRide public transportation system.

Nonprofit organizations improving public transportation or mass transit systems in Washington can access funding through Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund, with awards of US $5,000 - US $10,000. Projects may also address mobility, environmental conservation, community safety, education access, or healthier communities, including efforts involving Bridgestone volunteer or community engagement activities.

Students in Washington majoring in transportation technology and continuing their studies the following semester can receive scholarship support for higher education costs. Grants from Austin Community Foundation help U.S. students with financial need, strong academics, and demonstrated leadership or community involvement, and may benefit those preparing for careers in public transportation and mass transit systems.

Focused on transportation research and policy, Arnold Ventures invites Washington public agencies, researchers, and policy organizations to propose projects improving U.S. transportation systems. Funding up to US $200,000 supports studies, data sets, and policy reforms on surface transportation, transit infrastructure costs, permitting, procurement, and related public transportation and infrastructure issues.

Transportation agencies and local governments seeking funding for road safety planning or implementation projects in Washington can apply to the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program, which offers US $100,000 - US $5,000,000. Oregon Department of Forestry highlights this U.S. Department of Transportation opportunity for initiatives that reduce deaths and serious injuries for all roadway users.

Oregon Department of Forestry

Vision: Complex and resilient forest ecosystems that endure and adapt.

Mission: To protect and promote resilient forests that benefit all Oregonians.

US Dept. of Transportation Grant - Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program

The purpose of this Notice of Funding Opportunity is to solicit applications for Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grants.

Funds for the fiscal year (FY) 2026 SS4A grant program are to be awarded on a competitive basis to support planning, infrastructural, behavioral, and operational initiatives to prevent death and serious injury on roads and streets involving all roadway users, including pedestrians; bicyclists; public transportation, personal conveyance, and micromobility users; motorists; and commercial vehicle operators.

The SS4A Grant Program includes: 1) Planning and Demonstration Grants; and 2) Implementation Grants.

Implementation Grants

Implementation Grants fund projects and strategies identified in an Action Plan that address roadway safety problems. Implementation Grants may also fund supplemental planning and demonstration activities, as well as project-level planning, design, and development activities for projects and strategies identified in an Action Plan (e.g., project-level 21 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance, associated environmental review activities, permits and approvals, construction design, etc.). 

• Expected number of awards: 40 to 70

The FY25-FY26 Advanced Transportation Technology and Innovation (ATTAIN) grant program aims to enhance transportation through the deployment of innovative technologies. It focuses on improving safety, mobility, and efficiency while fostering economic competitiveness. Projects funded will prioritize core infrastructure improvements and address roadway congestion, aligning with the Trump Administration's goals. The program emphasizes economic opportunities and community benefits, ensuring that selected projects contribute positively to families and communities, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.

The FY26 Bus Safety, Accessibility, and Innovation Notice of Funding Opportunity offers up to $10 million for innovative projects aimed at enhancing bus safety and accessibility. Administered by the Federal Transit Administration, this competitive grant invites applications for the development of concepts that improve safety for operators and vulnerable road users, ensuring that public transportation is safer and more accessible for all passengers.

The PROTECT Competitive Grant Program aims to enhance the resilience of surface transportation systems, including highways and public transit, through innovative projects. With up to $787 million available from FYs 2024-2026, the program focuses on protecting transportation assets and communities, ensuring they can withstand challenges and recover quickly. This initiative also emphasizes the importance of coastal and natural infrastructure in safeguarding transportation networks. More details can be found in the full NOFO on Grants.gov.

The FY23 Bellows Falls Intermodal Center Rehabilitation grant aims to restore the passenger station to a state of good repair, enhancing its appeal and functionality as an intermodal transportation hub. This initiative will not only improve transit services but also play a pivotal role in the economic revitalization of the surrounding community. The grant will be administered by the Vermont Agency of Transportation, ensuring effective utilization of funds for community development.

AARP Foundation

AARP Foundation strengthens financial resilience for and with older adults by empowering individuals and improving systems.

AARP empowers people to choose how they live as they age. There are 125 million Americans who are 50 or older, and people want their money, health and happiness to last as long as they do. We are a wise friend and fierce defender, focusing on the priorities of older Americans.

Purpose Prize® from AARP

Honoring extraordinary people 50-plus who put their purpose into action.

Purpose is a powerful force for good. The Purpose Prize from AARP honors extraordinary older Americans who put their purpose into action to support AARP’s mission of empowering people to choose how they live as they age. Winners receive $75,000 and a year of organizational support from AARP to grow the impact of their nonprofits. Examples of organizational support include data and evaluation, governance and succession planning, fundraising strategy, and prospectus development.