Best Health Care Grants in West Virginia

With support from Toyota Motor North America, the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) is pleased to announce $250,000 in grant funding to make public lands more accessible and enjoyable for people of all abilities. The 2026 grant program will focus on communities near Toyota Motor North America facilities and is restricted to 16 communities, as detailed below. 

Overview

Through the 2026 Driving Mobility and Accessibility on Public Lands grant, NEEF aims to:

• Increase the capacity of local organizations and government agencies to address mobility and accessibility considerations on public lands; and
• Improve the level of access, comfort, and enjoyment experienced by public lands visitors of all abilities, together with their families and friends.

The grant will provide up to $20,000 per grantee to increase physical or digital access, provide adaptive recreation equipment or programming, or perform accessibility assessments on public lands in communities near 16 Toyota Motor North America facilities.

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP) invites proposals for regional fire science exchanges across nine designated regions in the U.S. This initiative aims to promote the sharing of fire science knowledge and practices over a two-year period. Eligible applicants can focus on regions including Alaska, Appalachians, Great Basin, North Atlantic, Northern Rockies, Northwest, Oak Woodlands, Pacific Islands, and Southwest. Proposals must be specific to one region.

Volunteer West Virginia is offering AmeriCorps State Formula grants to support eligible programs starting in Fall 2023 or Spring 2024. This initiative requires at least five AmeriCorps members and aims to enhance volunteerism across the state. With $3 million in yearly funding, Volunteer West Virginia, established in 1994, administers national service programs and provides vital support to local nonprofits, ensuring the growth and sustainability of community engagement efforts.

The Department of the Interior's Wildland Fire Service Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP) invites proposals for the FLAMES award, aimed at master and doctoral students in wildland fire studies. This initiative enhances research relevance by connecting students with fire management practices, providing experiential learning opportunities, and fostering mentorship. Students will gain valuable insights into management and policy, preparing them for impactful careers in fire science. The program emphasizes peer-learning and professional development in the context of wildland fire management.

The Water and Environment Grant Program by the American Water Charitable Foundation supports innovative community projects aimed at improving watersheds, conserving water, and enhancing access to recreation in underserved areas. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and educational institutions located within American Water's service areas. Projects must be completed within 12 months, and applicants should consider budget feasibility when requesting funds. Certain organizations and projects, such as those not classified as 501(c)(3), are ineligible.

The EPSCoR Research Seed program supports faculty from West Virginia colleges to initiate research activities or pilot projects, providing up to $15,000 in funding with a 20% cost share. Applicants must align their proposals with NASA's Mission Directorates and complete their projects within one year, requiring a midterm and final report. Collaboration with NASA researchers is encouraged, and priority is given to new faculty members without prior funding.

About Us

Funding through the many programs offered by the West Virginia Community Advancement and Development office have improved the quality of life in our state in a variety of ways. Learn more about the impact we have had in the communities where you live and work.

Neighborhood Investment Program

The Neighborhood Investment Program (NIP) is a tax credit program of $3 million each year, which allows 501(c)3 designated charitable organizations to apply for tax credit vouchers, which began in 1996 with $2 million. When awarded, the organization can distribute the vouchers to business and individuals who contribute a minimum of $500 to organizations, receiving up to 50% in tax credit, allowing the donor or corporation to reduce their West Virginia tax liability no more than 50%. The organizations pay a 3% fee on the donation, which offsets the administrative costs of NIP. During this time, approximately 68,190 donations from individuals and businesses have been received.

Benefits of NIP

There are 15,883 non-profits in West Virginia and we assist 200 of them each year with NIP credits, which has leveraged over $143 million in donations since inception.

Funding for NIP

Amount: $3 million annually

Source of Funds: State of West Virginia

The West Virginia Nita M. Lowey 21st CCLC Grant supports community learning centers that provide essential academic enrichment opportunities for children during non-school hours. Aimed at those from high-poverty and low-performing schools, the program fosters improved academic performance in core subjects like reading and math. With grants ranging from $50,000 to $250,000, the initiative also includes support for families, enhancing educational services and community engagement over a potential five-year funding period.

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

The Express Health Information Outreach Awards aim to enhance public health by increasing access to biomedical information for U.S. health professionals and the general public. These awards support projects that improve health information literacy among consumers and caregivers, ensuring they can effectively find and utilize health information. Focused on partnerships and outreach to underrepresented communities, the initiative seeks to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve health outcomes through informed decision-making.

The WV Culture: Survey & Planning Grant Program supports various projects including architectural and archaeological surveys, National Register nominations, and heritage education initiatives. Funded by the Historic Preservation Fund of the National Park Service, this program aims to enhance cultural preservation efforts in West Virginia, enabling communities to document and promote their historical significance through structured planning and development.

The WV Culture: State Development Grant Program provides financial support for the rehabilitation of properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This initiative, backed by the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture, and History, aims to assist various organizations and individuals in preserving historic resources. Eligible applicants include government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private citizens. The program emphasizes compliance with federal and state standards, ensuring effective use of funds for approved projects.

The IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity in underfunded states by fostering collaborations among research institutions. By supporting faculty research, mentoring, and student involvement, INBREs create pathways for undergraduate students to enter biomedical careers. This initiative not only promotes institutional partnerships but also strengthens research infrastructure, ultimately contributing to a more robust scientific community in IDeA states.

The Mid Atlantic Tours Grants program supports presenters in the mid-Atlantic region who engage Roster Artists during their project periods. Eligible presenters can receive up to a 50% subsidy for artist compensation, which includes fees, housing, and travel. The application process is straightforward and non-competitive, but early engagement with the artist's tour manager is advised due to limited funding. This initiative fosters a diverse range of performances and community engagement.

The Folk and Traditional Arts Community Projects Grant, offered by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, supports projects that enhance traditional arts and cultures in the mid-Atlantic region. Non-profit organizations can apply for grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, with a required 1:1 match. Eligible activities include performances, workshops, and public art collaborations, particularly those engaging underrepresented communities. This initiative fosters artistic expression and cultural connection across diverse communities.

The Research Initiation Grant, offered by the West Virginia Space Grant Consortium, supports new and established faculty pursuing NASA-related research. This initiative aims to foster collaborations between faculty and NASA researchers, enhancing research infrastructure at West Virginia institutions. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens and align their proposals with NASA mission directorates. This funding opportunity particularly encourages those in STEM fields to apply, promoting innovation and educational outreach in science and technology.

The Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, awarded by Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, supports first and second-year medical students conducting research over 2 to 12 months. With a total funding of $7,000, students can receive reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,000 for presenting their findings at national conferences. Eligibility requires enrollment in schools with active AΩA chapters, while those taking a year off for research or holding a PhD are ineligible.

The Hubert E. Sapp Regular Grant Cycle, by Southern Partners Fund, aims to empower rural communities in the Southeastern U.S. through grassroots leadership and organizing. The fund provides support to nonprofit organizations focused on social, economic, and environmental justice. Eligible applicants are community-based organizations with budgets under $350,000. The initiative honors Hubert E. Sapp's legacy, promoting equitable relationships that drive real transformation and community decision-making.

The Southern Partners Fund's Discretionary Fund Grant aims to support grassroots community organizing for social, economic, and environmental justice in the Southeastern United States. It provides financial resources and technical assistance to rural organizations and leaders focused on transformative change. Eligible applicants include self-governed rural groups engaging in advocacy and community development. The fund prioritizes education reform, immigration rights, and voter engagement, allowing up to two requests per year, with a maximum award of $3,500.

Beckley Area Foundation

Beckley Area Foundation was established in January 1985 by ten community-minded citizens. It began with a gift of $1.1 million from the Dr. Thomas Walker Memorial Health Foundation as “seed” money for this Raleigh County project. BAF assets have grown to over $70 million with over 500 different funds managed by our three trustee banks. Today, Beckley Area Foundation is one of West Virginia’s largest community foundations.

Since its inception, BAF has distributed over $23 million to charities and other worthy projects in the fields of education, public recreation, health & human services, the arts, animal services and beautification.

Scholarships

The Beckley Area Foundation proudly manages scholarship funds established by individuals, businesses, and organizations dedicated to helping students pursue higher education. Many of these scholarships are tailored for specific schools, fields of study, or graduates from local high schools, while others offer broader opportunities. No matter the path, our scholarships aim to support students from our region as they work toward achieving their educational goals.

Most of these scholarships must be awarded to students from our geographic area or at least preference given to such students. While the majority of scholarships benefit Raleigh County applicants there are others designated for Fayette, Summers, Webster, and Wyoming students. 

Wyoming County Medical Field Scholarship Fund

Need and merit based; Graduates from Wyoming County East, Westside, or Wyoming County Career & Technical Center located in Wyoming County, West Virginia; Must be pursuing a program of study in medical field at University of Charleston-Beckley. Should UC-Beckley cease to offer majors in medical fields or have a physical presence in southern WV, the scholarship can be award to student pursuing medical field major at any accredited school in WV. 

This scholarship is renewable.

The William and Helen Thomas Charitable Trust provides funding to nonprofit organizations focused on education, environmental protection, medical research, and support for the underprivileged. This trust, based in Florida, primarily serves communities in Palm Beach, Martin, and St. Lucie Counties, along with select areas in Appalachia. It seeks to assist public charities classified under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, ensuring support for impactful charitable initiatives.

The Dennis Aaron Plumley Scholarship, offered by the Beckley Area Foundation, awards engineering students from Raleigh County, West Virginia, attending WVU or WVU Tech. Founded in 1985, the Foundation promotes charitable giving to strengthen local communities. This renewable scholarship prioritizes academic achievement and financial need, with a preference for Shady Spring High School graduates. The Beckley Area Foundation's mission encompasses various funding priorities, including education, health, and community improvement initiatives.

Welcome!

The Culture Center celebrates and preserves the Mountain State’s rich creative spirit, unique cultural traditions, and storied past. From showcasing local artists and musicians to stewarding historic sites and archives, this branch of the Department of Tourism oversees vital programs and facilities. Whether you’re interested in discovering folk art, attending live performances, researching genealogy, or exploring state history, you’ll find it here.

State Development Grant

State Development Grant Program is for brick-and-mortar preservation projects. Properties must be individually listed on or a contributing property in a historic district or/and archaeological development of a site listed on the National Register of Historic Places to be eligible for this funding. The funding source for this grant program is appropriated by the WV Legislature, through Lottery Funds.

Funding is given to projects related to at least one of the following work categories:

• Work to sustain the existing form, integrity, and materials of a historic property.
• Measures to defend or guard the physical condition of a property from deterioration, loss or attack, or to cover or shield the site from further danger or injury.
• Repair and alteration of a property that make it compatible for modern use, while also preserving the features that convey its historical, cultural, and architectural value. This also includes work necessary to facilitate putting the building to an appropriate use, including meeting all codes and accessibility standards.
• Work that accurately depicts the form, features, and character of a property as it appeared at a particular period of time.
• Measures to reestablish the physical stability of a deteriorated historic property

Matching Requirement

Development Grants require a match budgeted on one-to-one (50/50) basis. Matching funds may include in-kind contributions but at least half of the sponsor’s matching funds must be cash. Only non-federal monies may be used as sources of cash. Grants are paid as reimbursement, so all grant expenditures and match resources must be expended for services completed (and approved) during the project period. 

Beckley Area Foundation

Beckley Area Foundation was established in January 1985 by ten community-minded citizens. It began with a gift of $1.1 million from the Dr. Thomas Walker Memorial Health Foundation as “seed” money for this Raleigh County project. BAF assets have grown to over $70 million with over 500 different funds managed by our three trustee banks. Today, Beckley Area Foundation is one of West Virginia’s largest community foundations.

Since its inception, BAF has distributed over $23 million to charities and other worthy projects in the fields of education, public recreation, health & human services, the arts, animal services and beautification.

Scholarships

The Beckley Area Foundation proudly manages scholarship funds established by individuals, businesses, and organizations dedicated to helping students pursue higher education. Many of these scholarships are tailored for specific schools, fields of study, or graduates from local high schools, while others offer broader opportunities. No matter the path, our scholarships aim to support students from our region as they work toward achieving their educational goals.

Most of these scholarships must be awarded to students from our geographic area or at least preference given to such students. While the majority of scholarships benefit Raleigh County applicants there are others designated for Fayette, Summers, Webster, and Wyoming students. 

W.L., Catherine, Richard and Jon McBride Memorial Scholarship

Attending the WVU School of Engineering; Awarded on the basis of need and academic ability; West Virginia residents with preference being given to residents of Raleigh County.

This scholarship is not renewable.

The Mid-Atlantic Panel on Aquatic Invasive Species Grant Program invites proposals for funding to tackle aquatic invasive species (AIS) challenges. Key priorities include research on AIS management, innovative control methods, and educational outreach. Eligible applicants range from individuals in government agencies to non-profit organizations. The program seeks to support initiatives that align with the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force standards and aims to enhance regional AIS management strategies.

The Eastern Branch John Henry Comstock Award recognizes outstanding graduate students in entomology. Sponsored by the Entomological Society of America, it offers a fully funded trip to the ESA Annual Meeting, a $100 cash prize, and a certificate. Eligible nominees must be student members of ESA, pursuing or recently completing a graduate degree in entomology. Nominations are limited to two per university, ensuring the selection of the most deserving candidates.

The Truist Foundation Grants aim to empower communities by providing resources for economic mobility and supporting small businesses, particularly those owned by racially and ethnically diverse individuals. The foundation focuses on enhancing job navigation for disadvantaged workers and building sustainable business ecosystems through collaboration and innovation. By addressing barriers to growth and promoting access to capital and education, the Truist Foundation strives to create equitable opportunities for all.