Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Wyoming

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.

The ASP Conservation Small Grants program is dedicated to supporting primate conservation efforts. It invites proposals for conservation research or related projects, including education, with awards up to $3500. This initiative encourages ASP members, especially those in habitat countries, to submit impactful projects that contribute to broader conservation goals. The program emphasizes funding for local salaries, research supplies, and educational materials, ensuring the sustainability of primate conservation efforts.

The Wyoming Department of Health accepts applications for Civil Money Penalty (CMP) funds aimed at enhancing the quality of life and care for nursing facility residents. Eligible organizations, including advocacy groups and nursing homes, can apply for grants to support innovative quality improvement initiatives. Funds cannot be used for regular operational costs or to restore compliance with CMS requirements. This program encourages evidence-based projects to benefit nursing facility residents across Wyoming.

Entergy’s Open Grants Program aims to enhance community well-being through funding initiatives in arts, education, social services, and community improvement. The program prioritizes support for organizations that serve diverse populations, including children and low-income communities. Eligible entities must have 501(c)(3) status or equivalent nonprofit recognition. Applications should be submitted three months in advance, allowing ample time for review. Entergy focuses on projects that foster self-sufficiency and enrich local neighborhoods.

The Western Society of Malacologists offers Student Research Grants in Malacology to support research in the study of mollusks. Grants of up to $1000 are available for full-time students engaged in relevant projects. Applicants from all countries are welcome, with no citizenship restrictions. This initiative encourages students to present their findings at WSM meetings, promoting academic growth and collaboration within the malacological community.

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 CHS Foundation's Ag Leadership Grant aims to enhance agricultural leadership and cooperative education. This program supports projects that cultivate a diverse pipeline for future agricultural leaders, focusing on education and career training for high school students to young professionals. Priority is given to initiatives that impact multiple states within the CHS trade area, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the cooperative business model in agriculture.

The Donor Alliance Foundation Grant aims to enhance access to organ and tissue donation resources in Colorado and Wyoming. With an annual allocation of $225,000, this initiative focuses on providing educational support, family assistance, and research funding. The Foundation seeks projects that are inclusive and innovative, ensuring equitable access for vulnerable populations, including living donors and their families. Applications are encouraged from nonprofit organizations that align with these goals and have a proven impact on the community.

The NRP Research Grant Program offers up to $50,000 for healthcare professionals to explore optimal neonatal resuscitation methods. It encourages innovative research addressing gaps in transitional physiology and effective teaching of resuscitation skills. Applications must focus on evidence-based practices and demonstrate potential for meaningful impact in delivery room care. Researchers from Canadian and US institutions are eligible, though applications primarily focused on quality improvement without a research emphasis will not be considered.

The Catholic School Leadership Development Grant Program aims to cultivate and retain promising leaders within the Catholic school system. In partnership with Loyola Marymount University, this initiative offers a graduate-level online Certificate in Catholic School Administration, covering 80% of tuition costs and providing funding for essential travel. The one-year program focuses on mission effectiveness, operational management, and instructional leadership, requiring participants to serve two years in their diocese post-completion, thereby enhancing local educational leadership.

The Waste Management Charitable Contributions Program supports initiatives that enhance environmental stewardship, sustainability education, and community vitality. With a commitment to civic pride and economic development, the program prioritizes organizations that address local needs and promote sustainable practices. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on public purposes, while ineligible requests include funding for operating costs and individual fundraising events. This initiative fosters a collaborative approach to community betterment.

The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, assists private landowners in restoring and protecting vital habitats for fish and wildlife. Since its inception in 1987, the program has provided technical assistance and financial support to enhance conservation efforts across the United States. By collaborating with local stakeholders, the program establishes habitat goals and directs resources effectively to conserve important ecosystems, benefiting both wildlife and the American people.

The Dunkin’ Prom Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to bring joy to teenage patients unable to attend their own prom due to illness. By funding hospitals to host prom-like events, the program ensures these patients experience this significant milestone. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, supporting the creation of memorable events with themes, food, entertainment, and formal wear for the teens, making a positive impact in their lives.

The JFLA Mini Grant for Japanese Arts & Culture Program supports projects aimed at enhancing the understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for qualifying nonprofit organizations. Eligible projects must occur in the 13 states west of the Rocky Mountains and focus on fostering U.S.-Japan collaborations through various artistic mediums. Notably, applicants must be designated 501(c)(3) organizations and adhere to specific funding guidelines.

The Growing Tribal Economies Through Forest Market Innovations grant program, initiated by First Nations Development Institute, aims to empower Tribes and Alaska Native Villages to engage in emerging markets that enhance forest health and resilience. With funding of $200,000 to $500,000 per grant, this initiative supports projects focusing on sustainability, innovation, and traditional knowledge. Eligible applicants are encouraged to develop forest products, certifications, and practices that contribute positively to biodiversity and ecosystem management.

About

The Costume Society of America (CSA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded on March 23, 1973, and incorporated in the state of New York on September 12, 1973. CSA serves it members, and promotes its goals with national symposia and publications including the journal Dress and its monthly electronic newsletter CSA e-News.

The organization began forming regional groups in 1978. There are six regional groups in the United States and Canada, and one international group. Individual regions hold annual meetings, sponsor programs and publish newsletters.

Our Mission

The Costume Society of America fosters an understanding of appearance and dress practices of people across the globe through research, education, preservation, and design. Our network of members studies the past, examines the present, and anticipates the future of clothing and fashion.

Jack Handford Summer Internship

The Western Region actively supports student members who show promise as new professionals and encourages institutions and students to apply for the Jack Handford Summer Internship offered every other year, i.e. 2026 and 2028. The internship is appropriate for students with majors such as costume studies, material culture, museum studies, fashion history, or similar. The internship is intended to average duration of six weeks or a total of 120 hours. The grant may change depending on the budget; the 2024 winner received $3,000.

Student applicants must be current CSA Western Region members to apply. Check the forms: Institution Application and Student Application. All forms and other materials stated in the form should be submitted to Naomi Arnst, CSA-Western Region, Student Awards and Summer Internship Chair.

The Grand Haven Offshore Challenge Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students pursuing studies in natural resources, including fisheries and wildlife. This scholarship is available for applicants attending any public or private college or university. The fund was established to honor community contributions towards environmental preservation and is awarded based on academic merit and financial need. Apply once for all scholarships you may qualify for to streamline your application process.

About Us

The Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation champions responsible outdoor recreation to improve communities and diversify Wyoming’s economy.

Wyoming Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Trust Fund (ORTTF)

The Wyoming Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Trust Fund (ORTTF) is a long-term investment established by the State of Wyoming to support the planning, development, improvement, and maintenance of outdoor recreation infrastructure across the state. The fund is designed to help communities enhance public access to outdoor recreation opportunities while strengthening Wyoming’s outdoor recreation and tourism economy.

ORTTF was created through legislative action to provide a sustainable, dedicated funding source for outdoor recreation infrastructure. The trust fund structure was established by the Wyoming Legislature in 2023 through House Bill 74, which created the permanent trust and associated income account in statute. In 2024, the Legislature passed House Bill 67 to establish the program’s administrative framework, governance structure, and grant authority. Both measures were signed into law by Mark Gordon, reflecting strong executive and legislative support for long-term investment in outdoor recreation and tourism.

Funding Sources and Stewardship

The trust fund is supported by biennial legislative appropriations from the Wyoming tourism reserve and projects account, which is funded through the statewide lodging tax. The fund may also receive direct legislative appropriations and may accept federal grants and other contributions, including grants, gifts, transfers, bequests, donations of money or personal property, and certain real property interests, as authorized by law.

This structure reflects Wyoming’s recognition that outdoor recreation and tourism are closely linked and that investments in recreation infrastructure directly support residents' quality of life, visitor readiness, local economies, and community vitality.

ORTTF represents a collaborative effort among the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation and the Wyoming Office of Tourism, aligning outdoor recreation planning with the statewide tourism strategy and economic development goals.

About

As the state economic development agency, the Wyoming Business Council leads economic growth in order to build resilient communities and create opportunities for people to thrive.

Leadership Grants

These grants sponsor programs that grow business and economic development leadership skills for formal and informal community leaders. The Wyoming Business Council supports training, activities, or other programs that foster the development of leadership skills by providing funding for both youth and adult organizations. Individual scholarships are not included.

Purpose

These grants sponsor programs that grow business and economic development leadership skills for formal and informal community leaders. The Wyoming Business Council supports training, activities, or other programs that foster the development of leadership skills.

Purpose: equip community leaders with practical economic development tools, enhance their knowledge and build local capacity to drive strategic, community-centered economic development approaches.

* The Adult Leadership Training Grant: ensure community leaders have a foundational understanding of how economic growth both works and impacts their quality of life today and in the future. We are building an educated, active pipeline for smart, innovative economic growth decision-making on the local level.

Training should address the following:

Economic growth is about community resilience, not just jobs.

Understanding the Root Problem and Barriers to Growth

Start with honest assessment of what you actually have

Focus on "Tradeable Income" - money from outside the community

Growth requires intentional, collaborative action

Build the foundation before chasing opportunities

In addition to its single family programs, WCDA currently administers several major affordable rental housing development programs; the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Program, the National Housing Trust Fund (NHTF) Program and the HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program. These federal programs have funded more than 5,000 units of affordable rental housing across the state.

Affordable Housing Programs 

The Wyoming Community Development Authority (WCDA, or “the Authority”) is committed to furthering the success of safe, sanitary and affordable housing throughout the state of Wyoming under the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) guidelines established by Section 42(m)(1)(B) of the Internal Revenue Code, under the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) at 24 CFR Part 92, and under the HUD National Housing Trust Fund (NHTF) program at 24 CFR Part 93.

WCDA addresses housing issues and needs for the citizens of Wyoming by administering the above-named essential programs that allow communities and service organizations to assist the citizens and municipalities throughout the state of Wyoming. WCDA utilizes the Consolidated Plans for Housing and Community Development for the City of Casper, the City of Cheyenne, and the State of Wyoming to identify several priorities for housing and community needs. 

HOME Program

HOME funds are available for the new construction or rehabilitation of rental housing as defined in the Wyoming Affordable Housing Allocation Plan.

Rental Housing Activities & Provisions

HOME funds must be spent quickly. The time frames for committing and expending funds are very short. From the time WCDA signs a HOME Grant Agreement with the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the following time frames apply:

• Twelve (12) months to enter into written agreements with an Owner/Developer to commit the HOME funds to a specific project; and,
• Four (4) years for Owner/Developer to fully expend funds. 

Rental Housing Production can be accomplished in the following ways: 1) Rehabilitation (Rehabilitation, Conversion, Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Refinance); 2) Acquisition and Rehabilitation 3) New Construction 

In addition to its single family programs, WCDA currently administers several major affordable rental housing development programs; the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Program, the National Housing Trust Fund (NHTF) Program and the HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program. These federal programs have funded more than 5,000 units of affordable rental housing across the state.

Affordable Housing Programs 

The Wyoming Community Development Authority (WCDA, or “the Authority”) is committed to furthering the success of safe, sanitary and affordable housing throughout the state of Wyoming under the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) guidelines established by Section 42(m)(1)(B) of the Internal Revenue Code, under the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) at 24 CFR Part 92, and under the HUD National Housing Trust Fund (NHTF) program at 24 CFR Part 93.

WCDA addresses housing issues and needs for the citizens of Wyoming by administering the above-named essential programs that allow communities and service organizations to assist the citizens and municipalities throughout the state of Wyoming. WCDA utilizes the Consolidated Plans for Housing and Community Development for the City of Casper, the City of Cheyenne, and the State of Wyoming to identify several priorities for housing and community needs. 

NHTF Program

Funds are available under the National Housing Trust Fund (NHTF) for the new construction or rehabilitation of rental housing. Acquisition/Rehabilitation projects as defined in the Wyoming Affordable Housing Allocation Plan.

Rental Housing Activities & Provisions

NHTF funds must be spent quickly. The time frames for committing and expending funds are very short. From the time WCDA signs an NHTF Grant Agreement for NHTF funds with the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the following time frames apply:

• Twelve (12) months to enter into written agreements with an Owner/Developer to reserve NHTF funds.
• Four (4) years for Owner/Developer to fully expend funds. 

Rental Housing Production can be accomplished in the following ways: 1) Rehabilitation (Rehabilitation, Conversion, Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Refinance); 2) Acquisition and Rehabilitation 3) New Construction 

The Mazamas is committed to exploring and preserving mountain environments in the Pacific Northwest through research grants. These grants support nonprofit research that aligns with the Mazamas’ mission, encouraging proposals from graduate and undergraduate students. Successful applicants often conduct field studies that enhance understanding of the region's natural features. Notably, the Mazamas also welcome innovative research ideas that may fall outside traditional grant guidelines, promoting a diverse range of scientific inquiry.

VAWA STOP funds have been appropriated annually by Congress to support communities in their efforts to hire and retain criminal justice and victim service personnel that respond to crimes of domestic violence, dating violence sexual assault, and stalking as a way to develop and strengthen effective law enforcement, prosecution strategies, and victim services.

In 1984, the Wyoming Legislature appropriated state general funds for the purpose of providing shelter, crisis intervention, and prevention education relating to family violence and sexual assault.The Wyoming Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (DV/SA) funds are primarily administered by the Wyoming Division of Victim Services (DVS), housed within the Office of the Attorney General. DVS oversees and distributes a combination of state general funds and federal grants (VOCAs, VAWAs, FVPAs) to local shelters, victim-witness programs, and advocacy organizations. 

The Asian Cultural Council's Individual Fellowship provides artists, scholars, and arts professionals from Asia and the United States with opportunities for self-directed cultural exchange and research in unfamiliar regions. This program supports activities such as interviews, workshops, and archival research, fostering cultural immersion and collaboration. With a funding limit of $35,000, the fellowship encourages innovative proposals that enhance creative perspectives and relationships among peers, while also ensuring strong eligibility criteria for applicants.

The Kroger Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities through significant charitable contributions, having donated over $1.9 billion in the past six years. Their focus on combating hunger through the Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative exemplifies their commitment to social impact. Annually, they provide over $300 million to nonprofit organizations aligned with their mission, promoting health, education, and disaster relief while fostering diversity and inclusion. This initiative reflects Kroger's belief that strong communities are a shared responsibility.

The Pacific Branch John Henry Comstock Award honors an exemplary graduate student in entomology within the Pacific Branch. This award aims to foster enthusiasm for entomology at the graduate level and encourage participation in the Pacific Branch and ESA Annual Meetings. The winner will present at the Pacific Branch Meeting and receive an all-expenses-paid trip to the ESA Annual Meeting, a $100 cash prize, and a certificate, covering airfare, hotel, registration, and per diem.