Local Environment Grants

The Manhattan Community Awards Program (MCAP) invites applications from Manhattan-based organizations to address key community needs. This grant program, contracted through the Department for the Aging (DFTA), the Department of Corrections (DOC), and the Department of Education (DOE), offers one-time contracts ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 as reimbursement grants. The program's mission aligns with supporting local communities by funding initiatives that directly address identified priorities within Manhattan, aiming to foster positive social change and improve the well-being of its residents. The target beneficiaries of the MCAP are diverse, including seniors, youth, and intergenerational populations, as well as participants in arts, composting, and various educational and recreational programs. The program aims to create a tangible impact by supporting services and initiatives that enhance the quality of life for these groups. Impact goals include improving health, fitness, education, nutrition for seniors, increasing access to arts and cultural programming, promoting climate mitigation and resiliency through public engagement and green projects, and fostering youth development through sports, arts, and health and wellness programs. The MCAP prioritizes several core focus areas for FY25. These include Senior Programs, encompassing health, fitness, education, nutrition, arts, cultural programming, and food access for seniors. Climate Mitigation and Resiliency is another key area, focusing on public engagement for Manhattan-based resiliency projects, green roof initiatives, hydroponics, and community gardens. Education is also a significant priority, with an emphasis on after-school sports and physical education, youth arts, and youth health and wellness programs. Finally, Anti-Gun Violence Initiatives are critical, supporting intervention programs, social justice-focused arts partnerships, and school-arts organization collaborations pertaining to anti-gun efforts. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed, the expected outcomes are implicitly linked to the success of programs within the focus areas. For senior programs, outcomes would include improved health metrics, increased social engagement, and enhanced food security. Climate initiatives would aim for increased community participation in environmental projects and the implementation of green infrastructure. Educational and youth programs would strive for improved academic engagement, physical well-being, and artistic development. Anti-gun violence initiatives would seek reductions in violence and increased community safety through intervention and awareness. The program’s strategic priorities are deeply rooted in addressing immediate community needs and fostering a more resilient, educated, and safe Manhattan. Its theory of change posits that by directly funding local organizations that are embedded in these communities, the program can effectively implement solutions tailored to specific challenges, leading to widespread and sustainable community benefits.

The Anderson Water Council is currently accepting applications for grants focused on the protection and remediation of water resources within Anderson County, specifically within Georgia and South Carolina. This grant program is designed to align with the Anderson Water Council's mission to assist Savannah Riverkeeper and Upstate Forever in identifying, prioritizing, and funding projects that empower citizens to address existing and emerging threats to water resources. The core objective is to restore water quality in the impacted areas of the Savannah River watershed. The target beneficiaries for this grant funding include not-for-profit charitable corporations or trusts authorized to operate in South Carolina or Georgia with a mission aligned with the Water Council's goals. Additionally, the Georgia and South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Forestry Commissions, and Departments of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism are eligible. Educators, municipalities, school systems, and any agency, commission, or instrumentality of such a municipality in the impacted areas are also encouraged to apply. The impact goals are centered on empowering local communities to take action and collect and publicly share water quality data, ultimately leading to improved water quality. The program prioritizes projects that empower local communities to actively participate in water resource management, particularly those focused on data collection and public sharing of water quality information. Funding is also available for water restoration projects. The Water Council is particularly interested in initiatives that foster citizen engagement and education around water resource issues. The expected outcomes include a more engaged citizenry, increased awareness of water quality threats, and the implementation of effective water restoration efforts. Measurable results for citizen empowerment and education projects typically see average individual grant awards ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, while water restoration projects can receive up to $100,000. Grants may also include multi-year awards, not exceeding three years. The Anderson Water Council's strategic priority is to support initiatives that contribute directly to the restoration and protection of the Savannah River watershed, with a strong emphasis on community-led solutions and data-driven approaches. Their theory of change suggests that by empowering local communities with funding and support for data collection and restoration, significant improvements in water quality and resource protection can be achieved.

The Town of Carrboro administers the Green Neighborhood Grant Program to support resident led projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance ecosystem resilience, and benefit the community. The program seeks to educate and empower neighborhoods, build capacity for climate action, strengthen partnerships, leverage town and neighborhood resources, and direct resources to low income communities and communities of color disproportionately affected by climate change. Projects must demonstrate shared benefits and aim to reduce emissions, improve ecosystem resilience, or increase climate action awareness and engagement. Projects must be initiated, planned, and implemented by community members, completed within six months of award, and comply with permitting and insurance requirements as applicable. The maximum grant amount is 2,500 dollars. Eligible applicants are neighborhoods located within Carrboro’s town limits. Applicants may apply for funding in two consecutive cycles, and those not previously funded may receive feedback to strengthen future applications. Contractors must carry required insurance and groups may be asked to obtain liability insurance when necessary. Applications are due May 1, 2024 through the town’s process. Funding duration beyond the six month completion requirement is not stated. Official information is available from the Town of Carrboro.

This grant provides financial support to local nonprofit organizations in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, for projects that enhance the quality of life, promote social welfare, and address community needs.

The Larimer County Department of Natural Resources (LCDNR) is offering grants ranging from $1000 to $10,000 for a period of 3 years to non-profit organizations, HOAs, K-12 schools, and community-based organizations in Larimer County, Colorado, to fund projects that enhance natural landscapes, provide environmental education, improve access to nature, support local agricultural food production, or conduct research on county open spaces, with the application deadline set for October 11, 2024.

City of Phoenix Community Canopy Grant is offering up to $2,000 in funding to improve tree canopy coverage in neighborhoods within Qualified Census Tracts throughout Phoenix. The grant aims to assist communities in increasing their tree canopies and creating a more resilient, sustainable, equitable, healthy, and thriving environment. Eligible applicants include neighborhood associations, community nonprofits, multi-family residential sites, non-residential sites, and community members. The grant covers trees, supplies, and support for tree planting projects. The maximum number of trees that can be requested is 200 for neighborhoods and two for individuals. Additionally, the grant supports event expenses such as food and beverages for planting events. All project locations must be within the City of Phoenix and a Qualified Census Tract. For more information and to apply, visit the City of Phoenix website.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to organizations delivering essential services that promote educational readiness, career preparedness, youth empowerment, and family support for children, youth, and families in San Francisco.

United Way of Dane County is offering 2025-2026 Impact Grants, an open and competitive funding opportunity for organizations working in Youth Opportunity, Financial Security, and Healthy Communities. This grant program is deeply aligned with United Way of Dane County’s Plan for Community Well-Being, which seeks to measurably increase individual and family well-being in Dane County, ensuring every person leads a healthy, thriving, and secure life unimpacted by systemic racism, discrimination, and poverty. The total investment available is approximately $2-$3 million, with minimum awards of $15,000 per year for a two-year funding cycle (January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2026), contingent on Campaign results. The target beneficiaries of these grants are individuals and families in Dane County, particularly those impacted by systemic racism, discrimination, and poverty. The impact goals are centered on fostering healthy, thriving, and secure lives for all residents. United Way of Dane County is looking to support organizations whose work aligns with their collective vision and demonstrates the greatest potential for impact in helping to achieve these community goals. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly defined through a multi-generational approach. This includes engaging in sustainable, long-term work on systems change with a clear focus on youth opportunity, financial security, and healthy communities. Furthermore, the grants emphasize modeling equitable, anti-racist practices across all aspects of work, including investments, partnerships, innovation, public policy advocacy, data and research, and connection to resources. Another key priority is cultivating a stronger nonprofit ecosystem through trust-based collaborations to drive positive community change. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in individual and family well-being throughout Dane County. This involves supporting organizations that directly contribute to the defined goals of the Plan for Community Well-Being, ultimately aiming for a community where experiences of systemic racism, discrimination, and poverty no longer impact a person's ability to lead a healthy, thriving, and secure life. The foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change are rooted in a holistic approach to community well-being, focusing on systemic change and equitable practices to achieve lasting positive impact.

The Delaware County Foundation's Community Grant Program aims to bolster numerous non-profit organizations dedicated to community improvement within Delaware County, Ohio. This program aligns with the foundation's mission to support initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and government entities with projects that directly benefit Delaware County residents. The foundation strategically partners with organizations that demonstrate a commitment to addressing critical community needs, operating under a theory of change that by investing in key focus areas, they can foster a healthier, more vibrant, and prosperous community. The grant program targets a broad spectrum of beneficiaries, including animals through welfare initiatives; individuals enriched by arts and cultural activities; low-income residents combating food insecurity, seeking affordable housing, or facing barriers to transportation, childcare, and education; students of all ages through innovative educational programs; and the broader workforce through economic opportunity initiatives. The impact goals are comprehensive, aiming to promote proper animal care, enrich lives through arts, combat basic needs deficiencies, provide quality education, build prosperity, create jobs, and foster a healthier and more sustainable environment. The foundation's priorities and focuses are clearly delineated across six key areas: Animal Welfare, Arts & Culture, Basic Needs, Education, Economic Opportunity, and Environment. Within these broader categories, preference is given to programs specifically addressing recovery, housing, mental health, basic needs (such as food insecurity and utilities), ESL, and workforce development. This targeted approach ensures that funding is directed towards areas identified as having the most pressing needs and potential for significant positive change within the community. Expected outcomes include improved animal well-being, increased participation in cultural activities, reduced food insecurity, enhanced access to affordable housing, removal of transportation and childcare barriers, improved educational outcomes, greater economic prosperity, and tangible improvements in environmental health. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the qualitative descriptions of impact, the grant duration of one year suggests that projects are expected to achieve their objectives within this timeframe, allowing for regular assessment of progress and impact by the foundation. Grants are expected to range from $2,500 to $20,000, providing crucial support to qualifying organizations.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and government entities that aim to improve the quality of life for residents in Floyd County, Iowa, through projects in areas such as arts, education, health, and community betterment.

This funding opportunity is designed to support projects that improve forest management and reduce wildfire risks in the Truckee and Donner Summit areas, benefiting local communities and enhancing their preparedness for wildfires.

This funding opportunity provides up to $5,000 for neighborhood groups in Montgomery County to implement projects that enhance community pride and improve quality of life through collaboration with local government.

This funding is available to the City of Diamond Bar for community development projects that benefit low to moderate-income residents through housing, public improvements, and economic opportunities.

This funding opportunity supports educational institutions, nonprofits, and government agencies in Hawaiʻi to develop projects that boost local business growth, job creation, and sustainability on the island.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and government entities to support projects that enhance community life in Worth County, Iowa, across various sectors such as arts, education, health, and environment.

The Women's Fund, administered by the Spencer County Community Foundation, offers grants to support charitable projects and activities within Spencer County, Indiana. This initiative aligns directly with the Foundation's broader mission to foster community well-being and development across various sectors. The grant program is designed to empower local charitable organizations by providing financial resources for projects that address identified community needs and contribute positively to the lives of Spencer County residents. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are the residents of Spencer County, served by nonprofit organizations and governmental agencies. The program aims to achieve significant impact by funding initiatives in diverse areas such as Arts and Culture, Community Development, Education, Health, Human Services, and Other Civic Endeavors, which include Environment, Recreation, and Youth Development. The goal is to improve the quality of life, promote community engagement, and enhance essential services available to the county's population. The Women's Fund prioritizes funding requests from organizations that are tax-exempt under sections 501(c)(3) and 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Code, as well as governmental agencies. Projects from nonprofit organizations not classified as 501(c)(3) may also be considered if they are charitable and address a community need, sometimes requiring a fiscal sponsor. The program specifically excludes funding for religious purposes, political campaigns, endowment creation, debt reduction, general operating costs not directly tied to a program, capital campaigns, annual appeals, membership contributions, and travel requests for groups or individuals. Expected outcomes include enhanced cultural experiences, improved community infrastructure, advancements in educational opportunities, better health outcomes, strengthened human services, and enriched civic life. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided text beyond "Awards up to $5,000," the emphasis on various program areas suggests that successful projects will demonstrate tangible improvements in the designated fields. The Foundation's strategic priority is to invest in community-led solutions that create lasting positive change, operating on a theory of change that by supporting a broad range of charitable activities, it can collectively elevate the overall well-being and vitality of Spencer County.

The San Diego County Bar Foundation (SDCBF) provides grants with the mission of improving public awareness of the legal system, enhancing the administration of justice, and facilitating the delivery of legal services. This is achieved through the strategic distribution of its funds to legal aid and public interest non-profits operating within San Diego County. The Foundation's core belief is that justice serves as a critical equalizer in society, and it acts as an effective conduit for the legal community to engage in law-related philanthropy, thereby strengthening the profession and benefiting San Diego County. The SDCBF's primary beneficiaries are underserved and vulnerable individuals and communities within San Diego County who require access to legal aid and public interest services. The Foundation aims to achieve equal access to justice, increase public awareness of legal needs, and advocate for those who are marginalized. By investing in these organizations, the SDCBF seeks to create a healthier and stronger community environment by ensuring that legal services are available to those who might otherwise be unable to access them. The Foundation's priorities and focus areas revolve around its core values: Access to Justice, Service, Accountability, Integrity, and Permanence. It diligently supports legal and non-legal communities through its grant-making process and ongoing fundraising efforts. The SDCBF emphasizes service by focusing on equal access to justice, public awareness, and advocacy for the underserved, coupled with ongoing education. Accountability is demonstrated through conscientious stewardship of funds, ensuring that donor contributions benefit designated community partners, with sustainability guaranteed through a growing endowment. Integrity is upheld through honesty, civility, and fairness, maintaining a strict no-conflict-of-interest policy. Permanence is secured by preserving the Foundation's longevity and ensuring its legacy through continuous endowment growth. Expected outcomes include a more equitable justice system, increased public understanding of legal rights and resources, and a strengthened network of legal aid and public interest organizations within San Diego County. Measurable results would involve tracking the number of individuals served by grant recipients, the types of legal services provided, and the impact of these services on the community. The SDCBF's strategic priorities are deeply rooted in its theory of change, which posits that by investing in legal aid and public interest organizations, and by fostering law-related philanthropy, it can ensure access to justice, enhance the legal profession, and contribute to the overall well-being of San Diego County, ultimately serving as a model bar foundation nationwide.

This grant provides funding to qualified organizations in Chaffee County, Colorado, for projects that improve forest health, support agricultural viability, and manage the impacts of outdoor recreation on local landscapes and watersheds.

The Travel Oregon City grant program invites applications from non-profit and for-profit organizations to fund public events that attract tourists, support local businesses, and enhance the community's tourism brand, with a focus on transparency, financial stability, visitor attendance estimation, vendor involvement, and annual application for funding.

The Council on Culture & Arts (COCA) offers three grant programs for the period of October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025: the Cultural Grant, Cultural Tourism Marketing Grant, and Local Community Grant. These programs collectively aim to fund programming expenses for arts, culture, history, or heritage organizations. COCA's mission, as evidenced by these grants, is to foster and support cultural and artistic endeavors within Florida, with a particular emphasis on Leon County's tourist attractions and broader community engagement. The Cultural Grant specifically aligns with the mission of attracting tourists by requiring applicants to promote their activities to visitors outside of Leon County, thereby leveraging arts and culture for economic development through tourism. The target beneficiaries for all three grants are arts, culture, history, or heritage organizations. The impact goals are multifaceted, seeking to enhance cultural programming, provide educational opportunities for both young people and adults in arts, culture, and history, and serve diverse populations or unique community needs. For the Cultural Grant and Cultural Tourism Marketing Grant, a key impact goal is to increase tourism to Leon County by showcasing its cultural assets. The Local Community Grant, while sharing similar programming goals, focuses on broader community engagement within Leon County, without the explicit tourism attraction requirement. Priorities and focuses for the Cultural Grant include offering exemplary arts and cultural programs, providing educational opportunities, and serving special or diverse populations. A significant focus is also placed on attracting tourists, requiring specific marketing plans and reporting on out-of-county visitors. The Cultural Tourism Marketing Grant directly supports this by offering additional funds for out-of-county marketing. The Local Community Grant shares the programming and educational priorities but emphasizes community impact and engagement within the local area. Expected outcomes include a robust offering of high-quality cultural programs, increased educational opportunities in the arts, and greater accessibility for people with disabilities. Measurable results for the Cultural Grant and Cultural Tourism Marketing Grant involve tracking the number of out-of-county visitors served by grant-funded programs and demonstrating effective out-of-market advertising. For all grants, applicants are expected to have documented statistics on attendance and participation, representing a broad community impact. COCA's strategic priorities are thus aligned with supporting both cultural enrichment and economic development through tourism, underpinned by a theory of change that posits that funding well-planned and promoted cultural programs will lead to increased community engagement, educational attainment, and tourist visitation.