Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Wyoming

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

Wyoming Department of Workforce Services

At the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services (DWS), we are committed to building stronger communities and empowering Wyoming’s workforce. We uphold legal employment practices, enforce labor laws, and promote safe and healthy working conditions. But our impact goes beyond policies—we support businesses, connect people with opportunities, and serve a diverse range of individuals, including employers, employees, job seekers, individuals with disabilities, veterans, families, healthcare providers, and more.

Our mission: To collaborate to support a thriving workforce and economy.

Workforce Development Training Fund

Unlock the Potential of Your Workforce with the Wyoming Workforce Development Training Fund (WDTF)

The Wyoming Workforce Development Training Fund (WDTF) is here to empower businesses and employees across Wyoming by providing professional development opportunities to enhance skills and foster growth.

The Workforce Development Training Fund (WDTF) is a unique Wyoming-based program that connects employers with professional development opportunities to increase employee skill attainment.

Before You Apply

Please ensure your business meets the following requirements to avoid delays in the registration process. 

Good Standing: Your business must be registered and in good standing with:

• Wyoming Unemployment Insurance (UI)
• Workers’ Compensation (WC)
• Wyoming Secretary of State (SoS)
• Workforce Development Training Fund (WDTF)

HireWyo: Your business must also be registered and in good standing with HireWYO. This process may take an additional 1-2 weeks, especially if your WC or UI accounts need to be updated.

Grant Opportunities Designed for Your Needs: 1) Apprenticeship Training Grants; 2) Business Training Grants; 3) Internship Grants; 4) Pre-Hire Economic Development Grant; 5) Pre-Obligation Grant

Pre-Obligation Grant

Request obligation of funding to attract business and industry to Wyoming. This grant allows Wyoming Economic Development Entities to obligate training funds for businesses or industries interested in expanding in Wyoming.

• Pre-Obligation of Training Funds is available for Wyoming Economic Development Entities to request the obligation of training funds for businesses, serving as an incentive for companies relocating to Wyoming or for existing Wyoming businesses expanding their workforce.

• Funding Options: Approved funds can be used toward the Pre-Hire Economic Development Training Grant, Business Training Grant, or both.

• Funding Limits: The number of trainees eligible for funding is capped at 200, with the specific grant amount determined by the parameters of the applicable- Pre-Hire Grant or Business Training Grant

Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research

The Asia-Pacific region, home to over half the world's population, faces challenges due to its development goals, which strain natural resources, communities, and cultural heritage. These issues are exacerbated by adverse environmental changes. While research has shed light on these problems, it's clear that more challenges lie ahead. The Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN) is well-positioned to generate new knowledge and solutions for these evolving global change and sustainability issues by supporting collaborative research and scientific capacity development activities, particularly those aimed at training the next generation of early career professionals.

APN 2025 Call for Proposals: CRRP 

Through the competitive Collaborative Regional Research Programme (CRRP), we promote regional research that has potential to improve our understanding of global change and its implications while contributing to a sound scientific basis for policymaking in areas affected by global change. Under this pillar, APN supports collaborative research that contributes to the evolving science-policy arena, including the UNFCCC Paris Agreement, IPCC, IPBES, post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals, Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and the UN Decade of Ocean Science as well as ongoing and new global change and sustainability research programmes.

Activities of interest under the CRRP Programme

APN promotes regional collaborative research that improves understanding of the physical, biological and human dimensions of change in the Earth system and advances actionable science that informs decision-making. APN accepts proposals that engage at least 3 member/approved countries in the region, and prioritise collaboratively designed, actionable research with non-academic stakeholders. Proposals must address one or more of the following activities:

• Collaborative research on global change and sustainability that particularly addresses GAPS, ANALYSIS, SYNTHESIS and ASSESSMENT work.
• Collaborative research that develops PATHWAYS and MECHANISMS to achieve sustainable development, and develop adaptation strategies.
• Collaborative PLACE-BASED INTEGRATIVE RESEARCH, particularly from developing countries.
• Collaborative research that is CO-DESIGNED to contribute to the Paris Agreeemnt, Sustainable Development Goals, Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework, UN Decade of Ocean Science (2021-2030), and the accumulation of scientific knowledge at IPCC, IPBES, etc.

The Mazama Conservation Grant Program offers essential funding to safeguard the Pacific Northwest's mountain ecosystems and landscapes. Grants between $500 and $2,500 support initiatives like trail maintenance, wilderness protection, and environmental education. Focusing on the Mt. Hood area, the program collaborates with environmental organizations and community groups to promote conservation efforts. By funding research, trail upkeep, and educational activities, the program ensures the health of the region's ecosystems, fostering a lasting commitment to environmental stewardship.

This project aims to develop a robust method for correcting solution chemistry interferences in electrochemical sensor measurements of complex environmental water matrices. By employing a ratiometric comparison approach, it seeks to enhance the detection of harmful contaminants like PFAS in drinking water. This initiative aligns with the priority of safeguarding public health through early detection and informed decision-making, ultimately ensuring access to safe, clean drinking water for communities.

The XENO PRIZE for Performance Arts, awarded by Franklin Furnace, supports early-career LGBTQ+-identifying performance artists creating new work in 26 states with restrictive gender-affirming laws. This annual prize, established in 2023, offers $5000 to a selected recipient from proposals submitted for the Franklin Furnace FUND for Performance Art. The deadline for submissions is April 1, 2025, encouraging innovative voices in the contemporary performance art landscape.

The 2026 Carceral Systems Organizing Grant seeks to support organizations working to eradicate carceral systems, create alternative justice solutions, or pursue system reform by addressing systemic criminalization that disproportionately targets Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) and low-income/poor communities across our five-state region.

We define carceral systems organizing broadly to include all systems that criminalize people’s lives based on race, poverty, gender, immigration status and/or disability. Examples include but are not limited to: 

• Abolition, transformative justice, and alternatives to incarceration
• Ending racial profiling and police brutality
• 'Addressing racial inequities in drug laws
• Child welfare, foster care, child protective services
• Youth incarceration and the school-to-prison pipeline
• Detention and deportation of immigrant communities
• Homeless encampment sweeps and criminalization of survival needs
• Re-entry organizing by and for folks who were recently incarcerated

The Tribal Solar Accelerator Fund (TSAF) empowers tribal communities across the U.S. by promoting renewable energy projects and workforce development. Launched by GRID Alternatives, TSAF provides critical funding for solar initiatives, enhancing energy sovereignty and resilience. Since its inception, TSAF has integrated community participation into its projects, ensuring that tribes can access sustainable energy solutions. By prioritizing education and equity, TSAF supports a transition to a clean energy economy, aiming for a sustainable future for generations to come.

SC Johnson Grants aim to enhance community welfare through charitable contributions, focusing on health, sustainability, and opportunity. Since 1937, the company has committed five percent of its pretax profits to support registered charities and nonprofit organizations, especially in areas where it operates. The grant program prioritizes initiatives addressing healthcare access, environmental conservation, and educational equity, ensuring that efforts align with the values of community service and corporate responsibility.

The Conservation Connect Fellowship Program, offered by the National Forest Foundation, invites graduate students to engage in hands-on conservation projects. This fellowship provides practical experience, mentorship from conservation professionals, and training in collaborative leadership. Fellows will gain a deep understanding of forest management and expand their professional networks. With a focus on developing future conservation leaders, the program seeks students passionate about public lands and community engagement.

The Blue Foundation Inc

The Blue Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization founded to champion, fund and celebrate local nonprofit causes that keep our community and people strong, financially stable and healthy. The Blue Foundation also helps make tax-deductible charitable giving easy for you.

Additionally, Blue Federal Credit Union matches all new member donations up to 80%. Since its inception, The Blue Foundation has given over $350,000 back to our communities.

The Blue Foundation Sponsorship

Donations and sponsorships are available at any time through Blue Federal Credit Union, and will be discussed at a monthly meeting. Though we strive to help everyone, not all donation requests will be fulfilled. We work hard to provide follow-up to all requesting parties regardless of fulfillment decision.

Both our sponsorships and grants focus on supporting non-profits who impact financial health and wellness.

The Blue Foundation Inc

The Blue Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization founded to champion, fund and celebrate local nonprofit causes that keep our community and people strong, financially stable and healthy. The Blue Foundation also helps make tax-deductible charitable giving easy for you.

Additionally, Blue Federal Credit Union matches all new member donations up to 80%. Since its inception, The Blue Foundation has given over $350,000 back to our communities.

The Blue Foundation Grant

Blue Foundation Grants are awarded to 501c3 organizations whose programs directly impact financial wellness or financial education. The grant funds may not be used toward general operating expenses.

Grant commitments are generally for one year only and in the range of $3,000 – $25,000.

It is strongly encouraged that potential applicants read our guidelines prior to submitting an application to confirm their eligibility to apply. 

The Martin Family Foundation, established in 2001, focuses on supporting 501(c)(3) organizations that promote faith-based education, assist the poor and at-risk, and uphold the sanctity of human life. With a mission rooted in Christian values, the Foundation prioritizes programs in Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming that break the cycle of poverty and encourage community involvement. While it occasionally supports operating expenses, the Foundation prefers funding projects that align with its core values.

Bristol Myers Squibb is dedicated to enhancing healthcare and advancing scientific knowledge through its Corporate Giving program. By supporting various organizations, BMS aims to improve health equity and access to essential medicines for underserved populations. Their focus includes charitable donations, medical education, and community support initiatives. This commitment reflects BMS's goal to make a positive impact on patients' lives and foster strong communities where their employees work and live.

WYDOT

WYDOT works extensively with numerous partners in the private sector to improve and maintain the state's transportation infrastructure, sponsoring millions of dollars of work annually. WYDOT's website contains a range of useful information and links for contractors, consultants, vendors and others interested in doing business with WYDOT.

FTA Section 5311 - Rural Public Transit Program / State Transit Program

Providing quality public transit service to Wyoming's rural communities is the main purpose of the program. Currently, service is available to residents in all 23 counties. Most transit providers are senior centers that have been active in the transit business since the inception of this program in Wyoming in 1985. There are more than 40 rural public transit providers, plus the two in the urbanized areas of Casper and Cheyenne.

The Rural Public Transit Program provides state funding and federal formula grants to support development, maintenance and improvement of public transportation in rural and small urban areas. WYDOT administers Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Section 5311 program for rural transportation projects in areas with population under 50,000. State Transit funds, authorized by the Wyoming State Legislature, supplement the § 5311 program funds, and are also available to Cheyenne and Casper that receive FTA § 5307 funds directly.

The FTA Section 5310 program, managed by WYDOT, provides essential funding for acquiring vehicles and equipment aimed at enhancing transportation services for the elderly and individuals with disabilities. This capital-only initiative supports both private nonprofits and public bodies in securing accessible vehicles, ensuring they meet the unique transportation needs of these populations. With a mandatory local match and focus on collaboration with existing services, the program aims to improve mobility and accessibility across Wyoming.

The MDU Resources Foundation seeks to enhance community well-being through grants to qualified organizations. Established in 1983, the foundation primarily funds health, education, civic, cultural, and environmental projects. It prioritizes local initiatives and encourages applications for new programming that addresses unmet needs. Organizations must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) entities to be eligible. The foundation does not support requests from individuals or for endowment funds, focusing instead on charitable contributions that directly benefit the community.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Family Literacy Grants to nonprofit organizations that support family literacy initiatives. Eligible applicants must provide services such as adult education, children's education, and parent-child engagement activities. Organizations must be located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and have a valid IRS tax ID. This funding aims to enhance literacy skills for families, empowering individuals to achieve their educational goals.

Wyoming Community Foundation

Since 1989, the Wyoming Community Foundation (WYCF) has connected people who care with causes that matter to build a better Wyoming. With over 500 funds and $270 million in assets, we support local nonprofits and make grants in every county.

By working with donors, nonprofits, and communities, WYCF makes giving accessible and impactful, helping strengthen organizations and the communities they serve. 

Butler Nongame Species Fund

The Butler Nongame Species Fund supports projects that conserve Wyoming's often-overlooked wildlife and habitats, carrying forward Gary and Jo Butler's vision for a healthier, more resilient ecosystem.

After a lifetime dedicated to wildlife conservation, retired Wyoming Game & Fish habitat biologist Gary Butler recognized that nongame species deserved greater attention and support. In 2017, Gary and his wife, Jo, established the Butler Nongame Species Fund with a lead gift that inspired others to join their vision. Today, the fund—administered by the Wyoming Wildlife Foundation—provides grants for projects that conserve Wyoming's 554 nongame species through habitat restoration, conservation, and other impactful initiatives.

If you have previously received funding, a final report must be submitted prior to submitting a new grant request. 

The Maki Foundation Grant Program, established in 1981, focuses on environmental protection in the western United States. Grants range from $1,000 to $5,000, aimed at organizations where modest support can create significant impact. Priorities include wilderness protection, river conservation, biological diversity, and public lands management. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and operate within specific states. The foundation avoids funding large groups or projects involving community recreation facilities and wildlife rehabilitation.

The Western Big Game Seasonal Habitat and Migration Corridors Fund, managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), aims to enhance big game habitats and migration routes on federal, private, and Tribal lands. With an anticipated funding of $3 million, projects will focus on improving habitats for species like elk and mule deer, fostering biodiversity and climate resilience. This initiative supports sustainable wildlife populations and prioritizes collaborations with key partners such as the U.S. Department of Interior.

Wyoming Department of Transportation

From engineers who design and supervise road construction, to snowplow drivers who keep those roads safe, to troopers who serve and protect highway users, to planners who help communities obtain funding for airport improvements, WYDOT is committed to building a better transportation system for the traveling public.

FTA Section 5311 (c) - Public Transportation on Indian Reservations

Purpose

• To enhance the access of public transportation on and around Indian reservations in nonurbanized areas to health care, shopping, education, employment, public services, and recreation.
• It also can assist in the maintenance, development, improvement and use of public transportation systems in rural and small urban areas.
• This funding also is meant to encourage and facilitate the most efficient use of all Federal funds used to provide passenger transportation in non-urbanized areas through the coordination of programs and services.
• To provide for the participation of private transportation providers in nonurbanized transportation to the maximum extent feasible.

Program Features & Facts

• Federally-recognized Indian tribes are eligible direct recipients. 
• Recipients tribes may use these funds for any purpose that is eligible under the FTA Section 5311 program
• Eligible purposes include: planning, capital, administration and operating assistance for rural public transit services, and support of rural intercity bus service.
• No match is required for this program funding.

Refer to the Federal Transit Administration Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).

The Wyoming Community Foundation (WYCF) offers grants to nonprofit organizations in Wyoming that address community needs in areas such as arts, health, education, environment, and civic engagement. Eligible applicants must be recognized under Section 501(c)(3) and in good standing with the IRS. WYCF prioritizes partnerships and leveraging funds. However, lobbying efforts and individual grants are not supported. Organizations with outstanding reports from previous grants are also ineligible.

The NAACP X Society Awards Scholarship

The NAACP x Society Awards Scholarship is one of many funding opportunities available to students through NAACP's Inspire Initiatives. We offer scholarships to outstanding and qualified students pursuing undergraduate degrees. Through the generosity of our donors, we advance efforts to ensure equity in educational opportunity that prepares students for success in school, work, and life.

Scholarship amount: $1,000 to $5,000

This is a non-renewable scholarship opportunity.

The Hazel Patterson Memorial Grant, offered by the Wyoming Community Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations in Johnson County, Wyoming, that meet community needs. With a focus on arts, health, education, environment, and community building, this grant prioritizes collaborative efforts and sustainability. Applicants should be 501(c)(3) organizations and are encouraged to leverage WYCF funding for additional support. However, lobbying efforts and individual grants are not permitted.

Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants support projects focusing on water stewardship across the Great Lakes watershed. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, eligible organizations can apply for funding to improve ecosystem health, enhance public health through better water resource management, and promote resilience against climate-related water risks. This initiative highlights Bell's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support in all 50 states and DC.

Wyoming Department of Health

At the Wyoming Department of Health, our mission is to promote, protect and enhance the health of all Wyoming citizens. To help serve the healthcare needs of Wyoming residents, we have four divisions: Aging, Behavioral Health, Healthcare Financing and Public Health. We also operate five unique healthcare facilities located in the following Wyoming communities: Evanston, Lander, Thermopolis, Basin and Buffalo.

Women and Infant Health Title V Funding

The MCH Unit, Women and Infant Health Program (Program) seeks applications from community-based organizations for programs and services that align with the following Title V national performance measures: improving postpartum visits and improving infant safe sleep practices and environments. This has been an ongoing award opportunity that has awarded funding to multiple organizations since its inception.