Private Infrastructure Grants

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and agencies that address community needs in the Methow Valley, with options for both unrestricted operating support and program-specific funding.

The African American Legacy (AAL) is an initiative of The Chicago Community Trust, dedicated to improving the quality of life for Black people throughout metropolitan Chicago. Led by Black civic and community leaders, AAL functions as a philanthropic and educational initiative, aligning with the Trust's broader mission of fostering community well-being. Its strategic approach is grounded in the philosophies of collective giving, community engagement, and grant-making, serving as a convener and catalyst to drive significant impact in Black communities. AAL's primary beneficiaries are Black-led and Black-serving community organizations that are responsive and rooted in their communities. The overarching impact goal is to empower and strengthen Black communities by addressing systemic challenges and promoting equitable opportunities. This is achieved by supporting organizations that educate and engage communities, and provide neighborhood-based services and solutions to community problems, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and thriving metropolitan Chicago. The program focuses on five key areas: Community and Civic Engagement, Mental Health, Wealth Creation, Arts and Sciences Education, and Environmental Justice. In Community and Civic Engagement, AAL supports work in leadership development, voting rights/access activism, and community organizing to dismantle anti-Black racism. For Mental Health, it backs organizations preparing providers or community members to deliver or advocate for mental health services, especially trauma-informed care, in response to the disproportionate stress burden on Black communities. Wealth Creation initiatives aim to build economic empowerment through financial literacy, entrepreneurship, workforce re-entry, and trade skills. Arts and Sciences Education supports academic enrichment in STEAM for Black children and young adults, fostering creativity. Finally, Environmental Justice focuses on protecting and advocating for the built/natural environment and ensuring communities of color are not disproportionately impacted by environmental hazards. AAL's theory of change posits that by supporting Black-led and Black-serving organizations working in these critical focus areas, it can drive measurable improvements in community well-being and dismantle anti-Black racism. Expected outcomes include increased civic participation, improved access to mental health services, enhanced economic stability, greater educational attainment in STEAM fields, and more equitable environmental conditions. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $20,000 for one year, with eligible organizations having annual operating budgets between $50,000 and $2,000,000. Eligibility also requires 501(c)(3) status, fiscal sponsorship, or governmental unit status.

This grant provides funding to nonprofits and government agencies in Western New York to support initiatives that assist caregivers, preserve community assets, enhance access to recreational spaces, and expand youth sports opportunities.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and educational institutions in specific Pennsylvania counties to develop workforce skills and enhance economic development initiatives.

The document is a Request for Information (RFI Number: 7200AA24RFI00017) published by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Bureau for Global Health (GH). This RFI is explicitly for information-gathering and planning purposes and does not constitute a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) or a Request for Proposals (RFP). The RFI’s issuance aligns with USAID's overarching mission to address critical global health challenges by seeking expert input that will inform the design of future activities related to its development goals. The central subject and focus of the RFI is "Accelerating HIV Vaccine Research and Development in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMIC)." While this specific RFI targets expert respondents who can provide strategic and technical inputs, the ultimate target beneficiaries are the populations within Low- and Middle-Income Countries affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The primary impact goal for the eventual program is to expedite the research, development, and eventual availability of an effective HIV vaccine for use in these regions. The key priorities or focuses are implicitly tied to identifying the most effective pathways to accelerate HIV vaccine R&D within LMICs. USAID is requesting short submissions outlining recommendations or other information pertinent to questions not listed in this excerpt. Respondents must provide sufficient detail and justification for their offered recommendations, indicating a priority on collecting actionable and evidence-based strategies that address specific challenges and opportunities within the field. As an RFI, this document itself does not outline expected outcomes or measurable results; its function is to gather the inputs necessary to formulate those later. It represents the initial stage in USAID's strategic planning and theory of change—that informed program design, based on expert consultation, is required to achieve successful acceleration of R&D efforts. It is a non-binding notice, and USAID reserves the right to incorporate any or none of the comments into subsequent solicitations, reinforcing its role as a purely informational and preparatory step.

This funding opportunity provides up to $5,000 to South Carolina law enforcement and code enforcement agencies to improve litter prevention and enforcement efforts.

The Hudson-Ellis Fund, administered by the Blue Grass Community Foundation, is a competitive grantmaking program designed to support tax-exempt, nonprofit organizations benefiting residents of Boyle County, Kentucky. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to enhance community well-being through strategic philanthropy, as evidenced by the establishment of the fund through bequests for the good of Boyle County by donors like Lottie B. Ellis. The program prioritizes projects that address critical community needs and demonstrate meaningful impact and sustainability, reflecting the foundation's commitment to long-term positive change. The program specifically targets youth and/or adults who are economically disadvantaged, youth and/or adults with disabilities, and initiatives focused on public education. The overarching impact goal is to improve the quality of life for these specific populations within Boyle County. Successful proposals are expected to demonstrate how their projects and programs will address these community needs effectively. The Hudson-Ellis Fund has clear funding priorities: public education, and programming that improves the quality of life for youth and adults with disabilities or those who are economically disadvantaged. Grant requests should not exceed $7,500, and the grant period for funded projects will run from September 2024 to June 2025. This focus indicates the foundation's strategic priority to invest in areas that foster equitable access to resources and opportunities for vulnerable populations. Expected outcomes include tangible improvements in the lives of Boyle County residents, particularly within the identified beneficiary groups. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond "meaningful impact and sustainability," the emphasis on addressing community needs implies a focus on quantifiable improvements in educational attainment, economic stability, or quality of life for individuals with disabilities. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by strategically funding projects in these key areas, they can empower local nonprofits to create lasting positive change and foster a more inclusive and prosperous community in Boyle County.

The Washington Department of Commerce (COMMERCE) is seeking proposals for the Innovation Cluster Accelerator Program (ICAP), specifically focusing on Fusion Cluster development. This grant is designed to strengthen industry ecosystems and accelerate economic growth within Washington State by establishing it as a global leader in key industry sectors, supporting tech transfer and commercialization, accelerating new start-ups and scale-ups, growing businesses, and creating high-value jobs. The program also aims to increase export opportunities and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in business ownership and the workforce. COMMERCE has budgeted up to $242,500 for this project, with a preference for awarding contracts under $150,000 to Small or Veteran-Owned Businesses. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are fusion-related industry-led clusters or consortia interested in participating in Fusion Cluster development. The overarching impact goal is to develop a robust Fusion Cluster and produce a legislative report with recommendations for promoting and developing fusion energy in Washington State. This initiative leverages Washington State's existing high concentration of fusion energy companies, fostering "co-opetition" to solve shared industry problems through a dedicated fusion working group. The program's priorities and focuses include establishing Washington as a global leader in fusion energy, supporting technological innovation and commercialization, and fostering business growth and job creation across the state. A significant focus is also placed on developing a legislative report, indicating a strategic approach to influence policy and create a supportive regulatory environment for the fusion energy sector. The grant emphasizes long-term economic development and aims to expand the program over the coming decade to achieve its ambitious goals. Expected outcomes include a stronger fusion industry ecosystem, an increase in tech transfer and commercialization activities, a rise in new start-ups and scale-ups, and the creation of high-value jobs throughout Washington. Measurable results will likely include the number of businesses grown, increased export opportunities, and progress in diversity, equity, and inclusion metrics within the business ownership and workforce. The overall theory of change is that by strategically investing in and fostering collaboration within the fusion energy sector, Washington State can solidify its position as a global leader, drive economic growth, and create sustainable, high-value employment opportunities.

The Deschutes Trails Coalition (DTC) is offering grants for small projects that improve or affect publicly accessible trails within the Deschutes National Forest and other trail networks in Deschutes County, Oregon. This initiative aligns with the DTC's mission to enhance and maintain local trail systems, promoting outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship. The program targets projects that contribute to the accessibility, safety, and overall quality of trails for the benefit of all users. The grant program prioritizes various project types. "On-The-Ground Projects" focus on physical trail improvements such as new trail construction, infrastructure (e.g., bridges, culverts, signage), and essential maintenance (trail and road maintenance, trailhead improvements). "Capacity Enhancement Projects" aim to strengthen local organizations through tool purchases, training and education, and internships. Lastly, "Public Education and Outreach Projects" seek to inform the public about trail use and conservation, including public service announcements, video creation, brochures, programs, workshops, and other educational events. The target beneficiaries of this grant program include outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, bikers, and all community members who utilize publicly accessible trails in Deschutes County. The impact goals are to create safer, more accessible, and well-maintained trail networks, foster a more informed and engaged trail-user community, and build the capacity of organizations dedicated to trail work. The program also aims to support the overall health and enjoyment of natural spaces within the region. The expected outcomes include a tangible increase in the number of improved trail miles, enhanced trail infrastructure, and a more knowledgeable public regarding trail etiquette and environmental responsibility. Measurable results could involve tracking the number of new trails constructed, maintenance projects completed, educational events held, and the number of people reached through outreach efforts. Projects are expected to be completed within 24 months of the grant award, with extensions available if necessary. The DTC's strategic priority is to ensure the long-term sustainability and quality of the Deschutes County trail system. Their theory of change suggests that by investing in tangible trail projects, organizational capacity building, and public education, they can foster a community that values, utilizes, and actively participates in the maintenance and preservation of its natural recreational assets. This program is a direct reflection of that strategy, empowering local efforts to achieve broader community and environmental benefits. Eligibility for this grant is open to 501(c)3 non-profit organizations with a trails-related mission, Federal Land Management Agencies, and private companies that are formal partners of one or more 501(c)3 non-profit organizations. The program will award up to $35,000 for multiple small projects, with individual grant sizes ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, underscoring a commitment to supporting diverse and impactful initiatives across the county.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to municipalities and non-profit organizations in Connecticut for environmental assessment and cleanup of brownfield sites, particularly in underserved communities, to promote the creation of parks and recreational spaces.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofits and local governments in restoring and enhancing the natural environment of the Connecticut River watershed, focusing on projects that provide unique environmental benefits.

This program provides financial assistance to employers in Austin, Texas, to implement innovative strategies that encourage employees to use alternative commuting methods and reduce traffic congestion.

Intermountain Health is offering Social Determinants of Health Grants to programs and services that align with their priorities of improving nutrition security and stable, quality housing through wraparound and support services. This grant program is aligned with Intermountain's mission to address critical social determinants of health, recognizing that these factors profoundly impact community well-being. The grants aim to support initiatives that create healthier communities by tackling the root causes of health disparities. The target beneficiaries for these grants are low-income, vulnerable populations, served by social service agencies and healthcare agencies. The impact goals are to improve nutrition security and secure stable and quality housing. Projects are expected to demonstrate a collaborative approach between health and social service agencies, or provide strong health outcomes if an agency applies independently. The grants aim to foster partnerships that lead to comprehensive and sustainable improvements in the lives of these populations. The program's priorities and focuses are explicitly on improving nutrition security and enhancing stable and quality housing through integrated support services. Grant applicants must demonstrate how their program or service directly addresses at least one of these two Intermountain social determinants of health priorities. The theory of change suggests that by directly investing in programs addressing these fundamental needs, Intermountain Health can create a measurable positive impact on community health outcomes. Expected outcomes include improved access to nutritious food and increased access to and retention of stable and quality housing for vulnerable populations. Measurable results will be based on the impact these programs have on the identified social determinants of health, with an emphasis on clearly defined goals and outcomes. For example, successful programs might demonstrate a reduction in food insecurity rates or an increase in the number of individuals securing and maintaining stable housing within the target communities.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to small nonprofit organizations in Northeast Florida with limited budgets, helping them strengthen their operations or develop community-focused programs.

The BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Foundation is offering Heal Mini-Grants, a funding opportunity designed to support healthy eating or active living projects. These grants specifically target policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) change in community health. The foundation's mission, as evidenced by its past award to Wholespire, is to promote the health of South Carolina’s economically challenged population. The Heal Mini-Grants align with this mission by creating opportunities for equitable access to healthy food and safe places for physical activity, recognizing that individual choices are influenced by available options. The target beneficiaries include community members, students, employees, and devout individuals who will benefit from increased opportunities to make healthy choices and engage in physical activity. The impact goals are to foster healthier communities by addressing systemic barriers to well-being. This is achieved by supporting projects that either serve as seed money for new initiatives, help progress existing ones, or provide the final push to complete ongoing projects, all within a 9-month grant period. The program's priorities and focus areas are exclusively related to healthy eating and/or active living, with a strong emphasis on implementing or supporting PSE change projects. Examples of funded projects include establishing or promoting SNAP/Healthy Bucks at farmers' markets, creating sustainable food-gleaning stations, installing water bottle refill stations, improving playgrounds, supporting active communities with bike racks and crosswalks, and enhancing community trails with signage and amenities. These examples highlight the commitment to creating environments that naturally encourage healthier lifestyles. Expected outcomes include increased access to healthy food options and greater opportunities for physical activity within communities. Measurable results would stem from the implementation of tangible PSE changes, such as the establishment of new programs, improvements to existing infrastructure, or the adoption of supportive policies. The foundation's strategic priorities are clearly centered on community health improvement through practical, environmental interventions. Their theory of change appears to be that by altering the policy, systems, and environmental landscape, individuals will naturally be empowered to make healthier choices, leading to a more active and well-nourished population.

The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County's "Growing Together: An LGBTQ Fund" is an initiative established in 2001 to address the needs of the LGBTQI community within San Luis Obispo County. This fund aligns with the foundation's broader mission to support charitable organizations and promote philanthropy by specifically focusing on providing grants and raising community awareness for this often underserved population. The foundation aims to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment through targeted funding and community engagement efforts, reflecting its strategic priority of addressing critical community needs. The grant program primarily targets 501c3 organizations within San Luis Obispo County that are implementing programs benefiting the LGBTQ+ community. The core beneficiaries include queer and trans people of color (QTPOC), transgender and nonbinary individuals, and LGBTQ+ people in areas lacking affirming community spaces. The overarching impact goals are to reduce discrimination, advance healthcare equity, improve physical and mental health outcomes, and enhance community connectedness and safety for LGBTQ+ individuals throughout the county. The fund prioritizes one-year grants for programs that focus on three key areas. First, it seeks to demonstrate strategies to reach out to, involve, and center QTPOC, recognizing the amplified discrimination they face due to intersecting systems of oppression like racism, sexism, and heterosexism. Second, it focuses on advancing medical and mental health care for transgender and nonbinary people, addressing the significant health disparities, stigma, and lack of culturally competent care they encounter. Third, the fund aims to create queer spaces in currently unserved areas of the county, acknowledging the importance of safe community spaces for promoting safety, connectedness, and mental well-being among LGBTQ+ individuals. Expected outcomes and measurable results include a reduction in health disparities for QTPOC and transgender/nonbinary people, evidenced by changes in organizational policies and practices, and improved physical and mental health statistics. For queer spaces, outcomes would involve the expansion of resources for local organizations to create physical spaces and the development of new, sustainable support or wellness groups. The foundation's theory of change posits that by supporting initiatives that directly address discrimination, improve access to care, and create affirming community environments, it can contribute to a more equitable, healthy, and connected San Luis Obispo County for its LGBTQ+ residents. The fund's commitment to supporting creative initiatives and strategies that move QTPOC from the margins to the center is a testament to this strategic priority.

The Washington State Department of Commerce is offering a grant program for affordable housing projects in its 2024 funding cycle, specifically targeting Homeownership projects. This Notice of Funding Availability and Solicitation (NOFA) aims to increase the affordable housing stock in Washington State by supporting applicants who create affordable housing units or undertake related activities. While the prompt asks for "foundation mission alignment" and "foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change," the provided information is from a government department, not a foundation. Therefore, I will align with the department's implicit mission of increasing affordable housing and its strategic approach to achieve this. The target beneficiaries of this grant are individuals and families seeking affordable homeownership in Washington State. The impact goals are to increase the availability of affordable housing stock and support various pathways to homeownership. The program prioritizes new construction projects, down payment assistance (DPA), and affordability subsidies. The Department of Commerce aims to facilitate the distribution of funds across the state by grouping projects into three geographic categories: Rural, King County, and Urban (not King County), with 30% of funds allocated to rural areas, demonstrating a strategic focus on equitable access across different regions. The grant program focuses on several key areas for applications, including down payment assistance, revolving loan funds (RLF), self-help projects, short-term production loans, and affordability subsidies for long-term or permanent affordable resale restricted programs like Community Land Trusts. This broad approach allows for diverse project types that contribute to affordable homeownership. The expected outcomes include a measurable increase in affordable housing units and greater access to homeownership opportunities for residents of Washington State. The measurable results will be tracked by the number of new affordable housing units created and the number of individuals or families assisted through various program types. The maximum award per homeownership project is $4 million for new construction and $2 million for DPA and affordability subsidies, indicating a significant investment in achieving these outcomes. The department's theory of change appears to be that by providing financial assistance and supporting various models of affordable homeownership, they can directly address the housing affordability crisis and increase the overall supply of affordable homes, thereby improving economic stability and community well-being across the state.

The Laurance & Mary Rockefeller Fund, managed by the Vermont Community Foundation, is offering grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 to organizations in selected Vermont cities, aiming to enhance the community's physical, cultural, spiritual, and wellness environment, with applications open until October 8, 2024.

The Glass Recycling Foundation (GRF) operates a grant program aimed at enhancing glass recovery, diverting it from landfills, and connecting glass generators with viable end markets. This initiative aligns directly with the GRF's overarching mission as a non-profit foundation dedicated to funding and distributing resources to intervention, demonstration, and pilot projects that address existing gaps within the glass recycling supply chain across the United States. The program serves as a strategic priority for the GRF, embodying its theory of change by focusing on tangible projects that can strengthen the circular economy for glass. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are nonprofit entities, municipal, county, city, and state governments, public waste management districts, and publicly owned/operated Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) or service providers. The impact goals are to increase the quantity of glass recycled, improve the quality of diverted materials, and establish stronger end markets for recycled glass. By funding projects that show glass returning to the supply chain for manufacturing, the GRF aims to achieve a higher and better use of recycled glass, thereby promoting circularity. The grant program prioritizes projects under two main categories: demonstration projects and education projects. Demonstration projects are designed to address specific gaps in the glass recycling supply chain and offer alternative strategies for reinforcing glass end markets. Examples include funding for equipment to clean recycled glass, collection containers for glass drop-offs, the development of regional strategies for collection and storage infrastructure, and hauling systems to boost collection rates. These projects are expected to result in more efficient and effective glass collection and processing, leading to increased recovery rates and a more robust supply chain. Education projects, on the other hand, focus on public awareness and engagement. These projects must present a clear message and strategy for educating the public about the environmental and community benefits of glass recycling, as well as methods for improving the quality of materials diverted by residents. Potential initiatives include developing and presenting training programs on effective glass collection and recycling practices, writing and disseminating case studies and guidance documents, creating signage for residential glass recycling drop-offs, and launching public education campaigns about community glass recycling. The expected outcomes for these projects include a more informed public, increased participation in glass recycling, and a reduction in contamination rates of recycled glass.

This funding program provides financial support to organizations working to improve digital access and skills in underserved communities through the acquisition of devices, client-facing IT support, and the development of digital literacy courses.