Grants for Nonprofits - Private

The Access to Recreation Program, an initiative of the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln, is designed to support accessible recreation projects for individuals with disabilities and special needs. This includes adaptive sports, games, and programs, as well as capital projects, addressing various needs such as sensory, physical, mobility, cognitive, developmental, emotional, and psychological disabilities. The foundation's mission, as evidenced by this program, aligns with fostering inclusive community participation and removing barriers to recreation. The program primarily targets nonprofit organizations, faith-based organizations, public or private schools, and units of government or municipalities that serve residents of Sangamon County, IL. The goal is to provide opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in indoor or outdoor recreation activities without barriers. The program seeks to fund initiatives that are specifically designed for and/or about people with disabilities but are also available to the general public, promoting broader community inclusion. The program prioritizes requests that support accessible recreation, focusing on activities that enable participation for individuals with disabilities. This includes projects that facilitate adaptive sports, games, and various recreational programs. The emphasis is on creating an environment where disabilities do not hinder access to recreational activities, thereby enhancing the quality of life for individuals with special needs within Sangamon County. Expected outcomes include increased participation of people with disabilities in recreational activities, the development of more inclusive recreational programs, and the establishment of accessible facilities. Measurable results could include the number of individuals served, the types of adaptive programs implemented, and the improvements made to existing facilities to enhance accessibility. The foundation's strategic priorities appear to revolve around community well-being and equitable access, with a theory of change that posits by funding accessible recreation, they can directly improve the health, social integration, and overall life satisfaction of people with disabilities in their service area.

This program honors and recognizes women leaders in the Denver metro area who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and community impact through their professional and volunteer efforts.

The Go Outside Fund, provided by the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin, aims to connect youth with outdoor, nature-based learning experiences. This grant program directly aligns with the foundation's mission by fostering an appreciation for natural resources and encouraging hands-on engagement with the environment among the younger generation in Wisconsin. The program's core objective is to facilitate access to outdoor activities for children, thereby promoting environmental literacy and a deeper connection to nature. The primary beneficiaries of this fund are pre-K through 12th-grade students in Wisconsin. Teachers and partner organizations can apply for funding to cover various costs that enable outdoor learning, such as field supplies, transportation, substitute teachers, or educator expenses. The impact goals are centered on increasing opportunities for children to learn in outdoor settings, fostering a sense of stewardship, and enriching their educational experiences through direct interaction with nature. The fund prioritizes grant applications that include a significant component of outdoor activity and directly engage children in outdoor, nature-based learning. While alignment with classroom learning and standards is encouraged, it is not a strict requirement, emphasizing the program's focus on experiential learning. Grants between $100 and $500 are available, supporting a wide range of smaller-scale, impactful projects that meet the eligibility criteria. Eligible applicants include public charities with approved 501(c)(3) status, governmental units, American Indian nations or tribal communities, and accredited schools, colleges, or universities. The program's theory of change posits that by removing financial barriers and supporting educators and organizations, more Wisconsin youth will have access to enriching outdoor experiences, leading to increased environmental awareness and appreciation. The expected outcome is a measurable increase in youth participation in nature-based learning, contributing to a more environmentally conscious and engaged generation. Projects must benefit Wisconsin students, and activities must take place six weeks or more after the application due date, ensuring planned and impactful engagement.

This funding opportunity provides up to $10,000 to nonprofit organizations and educational institutions in Oklahoma for projects that preserve and digitize important humanities collections to enhance public access and research.

This grant provides financial support to non-profit organizations focused on social betterment, including disaster relief, basic needs, education in STEM fields, health initiatives, and programs for individuals with disabilities.

This grant provides operational funding to arts organizations in Tennessee's urban counties to support their annual expenses and promote diverse artistic representation.

This grant provides funding to public and non-religious private schools, as well as nonprofit organizations partnering with public schools in Ohio, to support innovative educational projects that improve teaching and learning.

The Long Island Sound Futures Fund (LISFF), managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Long Island Sound Study (LISS), seeks to restore the health and living resources of Long Island Sound. This grant program, with approximately $12 million available in 2024, aligns with the foundation's mission by supporting efforts to test innovative conservation approaches, deliver transformative projects, and engage communities that value and protect the Sound. Major funding is provided by EPA through the LISS, with additional support from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Zoetis Foundation, demonstrating a collaborative strategic approach to environmental conservation. The LISFF targets a broad range of beneficiaries, including non-profit 501(c) organizations, state government agencies, local and municipal governments, Tribal Governments and Organizations, and educational institutions. The impact goals are centered on improving water quality, enhancing and restoring coastal habitats, and fostering sustainable and resilient communities around the Long Island Sound. The program’s strategic priorities are guided by the Long Island Sound Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan 2020-2024 Update (CCMP), which emphasizes three core themes: Clean Waters and Healthy Watersheds, Thriving Habitats and Abundant Wildlife, and Sustainable and Resilient Communities. Cross-cutting principles of resiliency to climate change, long-term sustainability, and environmental justice are also integral to the program's theory of change. Under the "Clean Waters and Healthy Watersheds" theme, the program prioritizes reducing nitrogen pollution, combined sewer overflows, impervious cover, stormwater runoff, and point and nonpoint source loading. This includes funding for "shovel-ready" projects that result in quantifiable pollutant prevention, particularly those addressing water quality at a larger scale. Planning activities, such as community engagement, feasibility studies, site assessments, conceptual design, and final design and permitting, are also supported. Projects in the Upper Basin states (MA, NH, VT) are specifically focused on quantifiable nitrogen/nutrient prevention with a documented benefit to Long Island Sound. The "Thriving Habitats and Abundant Wildlife" theme focuses on enhancing or restoring coastal habitats to maintain resilience and function, supporting fish, bird, and wildlife populations, and sustaining the Sound's ecological balance. This involves implementing "shovel-ready" habitat restoration and nature-based or green-gray hybrid resilience projects, as well as planning activities for such projects. The program also aims to foster diverse, balanced, and abundant populations of fish, birds, and wildlife, encouraging proposals that consider the LISS Habitat Restoration Guidelines. The "Sustainable and Resilient Communities" theme supports vibrant, informed, and engaged communities through projects that offer hands-on conservation experiences. Expected outcomes include quantifiable pollutant reductions, enhanced and restored coastal habitats, increased resilience to climate change, and more engaged communities actively participating in the Sound's protection and sustainability. For water quality projects, measurable results will include quantifiable pollutant prevention, particularly nitrogen/nutrient reductions. For habitat projects, long-term maintenance plans and ecological improvements are expected. The LISFF's strategic framework, rooted in the CCMP, aims to accelerate local and regional water quality improvements, natural resource restoration, coastal resilience, environmental justice, and community outreach, ultimately leading to a healthier, more productive, and resilient Long Island Sound for both people and wildlife.

The District of Columbia Department of Health (DC Health) is offering a grant program aimed at improving the recruitment and retention of the dental workforce within the District. This initiative directly aligns with the broader mission of enhancing public health by addressing critical shortages in dental care, particularly in designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). By strengthening the dental workforce, DC Health seeks to ensure greater access to oral health services for all residents, thereby contributing to the overall well-being of the community. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant are dental professionals practicing or intending to practice in dental HPSAs. The impact goals are to alleviate the shortage of dental workers, reduce burnout among existing staff, and create more stable and effective dental care environments. The grant prioritizes the implementation or development of targeted training programs, the creation of initiatives to address organizational gaps impacting oral health workforce retention, and other strategies designed to combat burnout within the dental field. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number of dental professionals working in HPSAs, a reduction in staff turnover rates, and the establishment of sustainable and scalable approaches to meet the needs of dental organizations. Measurable results will likely involve tracking recruitment numbers, retention rates, and the successful implementation of new programs aimed at improving workforce stability. The goal is to identify and address the drivers of administrative and clinical support staff retention, ensuring a robust and resilient oral health workforce. The funding available for this project is substantial, with an anticipated amount of $80,000, and individual awards ranging from $60,000 to $80,000. The project period is set to begin on August 1, 2024, and conclude on July 31, 2025. Eligibility is extended to Federally Qualified Health Centers and dental clinics currently providing care in dental Health Professional Shortage Areas. This strategic investment reflects DC Health's commitment to a theory of change that posits by directly supporting the dental workforce, the District can achieve significant improvements in oral health equity and access.

The Erie Community Foundation is offering the Shaping Tomorrow Grant Program to strengthen nonprofit organizations in Erie County that address key community needs. This program aligns with the foundation's mission to enhance the well-being of Erie County by supporting initiatives that foster a stronger, more vibrant community. The grant seeks to empower local nonprofits to make a significant impact on the county's most pressing challenges. The program's primary beneficiaries are marginalized communities within Erie County, with a strong focus on fueling inclusive growth strategies. The foundation aims to achieve this through a collective impact approach, ensuring that projects not only address immediate needs but also contribute to long-term systemic change. The expected outcomes include a more resilient and equitable community, with measurable results tied to the specific projects funded and their reach within the targeted populations. A key priority for the Shaping Tomorrow Grant Program is to support projects that demonstrate a clear commitment to inclusive growth. This means initiatives that actively work to reduce disparities and create opportunities for all residents, particularly those who have historically been underserved. The foundation's strategic priorities are centered on creating a lasting positive impact through collaborative efforts and sustainable solutions, reflecting a theory of change that emphasizes the power of collective action to drive community-wide improvement. The grant funding ranges from $50,000 to $250,000, with a stated size of $100,000 to $500,000. Eligible applicants are nonprofits defined as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue code that are located within Erie County or demonstrate a sizable population within Erie County. This ensures that the funding directly benefits the community it is intended to serve and supports organizations with a proven commitment to public service.

This grant provides funding to support the development of prefabricated, all-electric Accessory Dwelling Units in the Pioneer Valley region of Massachusetts, helping property owners address housing shortages while promoting clean energy practices.

The Entertainment Business Interruption Fund (BIF), funded by the American Rescue Plan (ARP) and managed by the LA Small Business Development Center Network, aims to support small businesses in the entertainment industry within Los Angeles County. This program directly addresses the economic hardship faced by these businesses due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2023 double Hollywood Strikes. The fund's mission aligns with supporting the economic vitality of a key industry in Los Angeles, ensuring the continuity and recovery of small businesses that form its backbone. The target beneficiaries are for-profit small businesses in Los Angeles County's entertainment industry with $3 million or less in annual gross revenue. These businesses must have experienced at least a 70% loss of revenue due to the COVID-19 Pandemic (March 1, 2020, to present) and the 2023 double Hollywood Strikes (May 1, 2023 – November 30, 2023). A significant impact goal is to mitigate financial losses and facilitate recovery for these businesses, enabling them to sustain operations and contribute to the local economy. The program prioritizes businesses that demonstrate substantial revenue loss directly attributable to the specified crises. It focuses on providing financial relief for critical operational expenses, including the purchase of new certified equipment, restocking liquidated inventory, lease/rent/mortgage payments, business debt accrued due to the crises, COVID-19 related costs, employee payroll, working capital, and outstanding business expenses. A key focus is ensuring that funds are used to directly address and alleviate the negative economic impacts suffered. Expected outcomes include the stabilization of small businesses in the entertainment sector, preventing further closures, and preserving jobs. Measurable results will include the number of businesses receiving grants, the total amount of funds disbursed, and the extent to which these businesses are able to maintain or increase their operations post-grant. The grant amounts, either $10,000 for businesses with revenue less than or equal to $999,999 or $25,000 for those with revenue between $1,000,000 and $3,000,000, are directly tied to revenue size, indicating a structured approach to proportional relief. The foundation's strategic priority, through the LA Small Business Development Center Network, is to foster economic resilience within the entertainment industry. The theory of change posits that by providing targeted financial assistance to small businesses severely impacted by external economic shocks, the program can prevent widespread business failures, preserve the industry's ecosystem, and contribute to the broader economic recovery of Los Angeles County. This direct intervention aims to bridge financial gaps and allow businesses to regain stability and growth.

In Tier 3, CHEJ's Small Grants Program targets large grassroots organizations with budgets between $250,000 and $1,000,000. Offering grants between $10,000 and $20,000, this tier supports substantial projects that tackle environmental health issues through strategic, impactful actions. Eligible projects are those that enable significant local, state, or regional impact, focusing on building capacity, leadership, and educational outreach within communities affected by environmental toxins. This funding tier is suited for larger organizations that play a pivotal role in their communities and are looking to expand or enhance their ongoing efforts.

This grant provides funding to local nonprofits, government entities, schools, and churches to address community needs and improve the quality of life in the Mountain Grove area.

This program provides hydration stations to community organizations and educational institutions in Illinois to promote access to safe drinking water and encourage sustainable hydration practices.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit arts organizations in Genesee County, Michigan, to enhance community engagement and cultural initiatives through various arts programs.

The Berkeley FILM Foundation (BFF) is offering a 2024 Student grant program designed to support emerging filmmakers in various stages of production, post-production, and distribution. This initiative aligns with BFF's mission to foster film talent and contribute to the vibrant film community within specific California counties. The foundation's strategic priority is to provide financial assistance to student filmmakers, ensuring the continuity and development of cinematic arts. The target beneficiaries of this program are student filmmakers over the age of 18, residing in Berkeley, Emeryville, Albany, El Cerrito, Richmond, or Oakland. Crucially, applicants must be currently enrolled full-time in a film studies program within Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, or Marin counties. The program specifically focuses on supporting individuals who are the primary creators of their submitted work. Former grant recipients are eligible to apply for a new film proposal only after their previously funded film has been completed, encouraging a commitment to seeing projects through to fruition. The grant program prioritizes short documentaries (40 minutes or less) and long documentaries (over 40 minutes). This focus on documentary filmmaking indicates an interest in projects that explore real-world subjects and narratives. The maximum request per project is $5,000, with overall grant sizes ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. This tiered funding aims to support a variety of project scales, from early development to final distribution. The expected outcomes of the BFF student grant program include the successful completion and distribution of student film projects, contributing to the cultural landscape of the Bay Area. Measurable results would involve the number of films funded, the completion rate of these projects, and any subsequent screenings or awards received by the grant recipients. By supporting student filmmakers, BFF aims to cultivate a new generation of cinematic voices, thereby contributing to the long-term health and innovation of the film industry.

The Michigan Arts and Culture Council (MACC) offers the Experience Support Grant Program to expand access to meaningful arts and cultural experiences across the state. This program is designed specifically for organizations whose primary mission is not arts- or culture-centered but that wish to incorporate creative projects into their work. By providing funding for one-year initiatives, MACC aims to foster collaboration between the arts and other community sectors, encouraging innovation, cultural engagement, and community enrichment through creative programming. Applicants may apply for funding in one or more of four categories: Project Support, Facility Enhancement & Equipment Purchase, Professional/Organizational Development, and Transportation. Project Support grants, offering up to $20,000, fund the creation, presentation, or production of arts and culture experiences that are open to the public. These projects may range from single events to ongoing programs throughout the grant period. Funding must be dedicated solely to arts-related activities rather than any of the applicant organization’s non-arts programs, ensuring that each supported initiative creates a direct cultural impact. Facility and Equipment grants provide up to $30,000 to help organizations improve venues, studios, or community spaces used for arts programming, or to purchase necessary equipment for cultural activities. To qualify for facility improvements, applicants must demonstrate either ownership of the property or a long-term lease. Professional/Organizational Development grants, capped at $1,500, support training opportunities for staff, contractors, board members, or volunteers to build capacity and deepen their knowledge in arts and cultural management or practice. Transportation grants, also up to $1,500, assist with the costs of moving participants to and from arts experiences, whether traveling to an organization’s own venue or visiting another site for cultural engagement. Eligible applicants include a broad range of Michigan-based entities such as PreK–12 schools (including home schools, districts, and Head Start programs), colleges and universities, municipalities, tribal entities, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits whose missions are not primarily arts-focused. This inclusive approach allows civic, educational, and community organizations to bring arts and culture directly into environments that may not otherwise have access to them. All funded projects must occur within the grant period of October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. Through the Experience Support program, MACC reinforces its commitment to embedding the arts in everyday community life. By empowering organizations from diverse sectors to integrate creative expression into their missions, the program helps broaden public access to the arts, inspire local participation, and enrich Michigan’s cultural identity. This initiative not only enhances the visibility of the arts but also demonstrates their essential role in education, community well-being, and civic vitality across the state.

The William Penn Foundation is offering Climate, Environmental Justice, and Infrastructure Grants to help the Philadelphia region (Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties) secure federal funding for initiatives in these areas. This grant program aligns with the Foundation's broader mission by focusing on critical environmental and social issues within its geographic scope, leveraging external funding opportunities to maximize impact. The Foundation has allocated up to $3.5 million for this Request for Proposals (RFP), with individual organizations eligible to receive a maximum of $1,000,000 over a two-year grant duration. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are the communities and residents of the Philadelphia region, particularly those who will benefit from advancements in climate resilience, environmental justice, and infrastructure development. The overarching impact goal is to strengthen the region's ability to access and utilize available federal funding, thereby leading to tangible improvements in these critical sectors. The Foundation aims to empower local organizations to pursue projects that might otherwise lack the necessary financial backing, fostering long-term positive change. The Foundation's strategic priorities for this grant are clearly focused on efforts to access federal funding for climate, environmental justice, and infrastructure. There are few limitations on project designs or the applicants' approach to securing such funding, encouraging innovative and diverse strategies. Proposals can focus on project development, technical or legal assistance, communications, or other methods to advance the objective, whether on a regionwide or more localized scale. This flexible approach allows for a broad range of initiatives to be supported, from initial planning to implementation support. Expected outcomes include an increase in successful applications for federal funding, a greater number of projects addressing climate change, environmental injustices, and infrastructure needs, and ultimately, an enhanced quality of life for residents in the designated counties. While the specific measurable results will depend on the individual projects funded, the Foundation's theory of change appears to be that by strategically investing in the capacity of organizations to secure federal funding, it can catalyze a larger volume of impactful work in its priority areas, amplifying its philanthropic reach and fostering sustainable progress.

This grant provides up to $25,000 to Louisiana-based nonprofits for innovative projects that improve health and community well-being.