Massachusetts Community Development Grants

This funding opportunity supports grassroots community groups with limited resources to launch new environmental projects or significantly shift existing ones, focusing on those that amplify diverse voices and address environmental justice issues.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to fire departments in Massachusetts to educate school-aged children and senior citizens about fire safety and prevention.

NBForward! is a small business assistance program administered by the New Bedford Economic Development Council (NBEDC). It aims to help businesses navigate the challenges of the pandemic recovery phase while preparing for future growth. The program offers grants of up to $20,000, which must be matched with an NBEDC loan ranging from $10,000 to $200,000 with deferred payments for three months. In addition to financial assistance, technical support such as business planning and resource guidance is provided. Eligible applicants are for-profit businesses that have a physical location in New Bedford, Massachusetts, and have been in operation since at least January 1, 2020. Businesses must demonstrate continued adverse effects from the COVID-19 pandemic. Chains, franchises, liquor stores, tobacco shops, pawn shops, adult entertainment establishments, passive real estate investments, and businesses not complying with all local, state, and federal laws are ineligible.

This grant provides funding to Boston residents and community groups to host neighborhood block parties that foster community engagement and connection during the summer.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to organizations in Massachusetts to develop training programs and improve equipment for residents pursuing careers in essential climate-related jobs.

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.

This funding opportunity supports non-profit organizations and public agencies in developing and sustaining small, community-focused agricultural projects, such as farmer's markets and urban gardens.

This funding opportunity supports Harvard faculty in launching new research initiatives aimed at solving urgent social issues through collaboration with non-academic partners.

The Brookline Community Foundation (BCF) is offering a Community Grant Program, providing funding between $10,000 to $100,000 for one year to programs that promote equity and address community needs such as health, wellness, climate sustainability, arts, culture, and more, with a preference for BIPOC-led organizations and those focusing on vulnerable populations.

This program provides funding to support the development of ocean technology testing facilities and to enhance the ecosystem for ocean innovation in Massachusetts, targeting nonprofits, universities, and research institutions with at least three years of operational experience.

The Chelsea Neighborhood Market & Food Business Grant Program aims to bolster the local food economy in Chelsea, MA, in response to increased food insecurity and economic turbulence exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, the program provides $100,000 over three years to support Chelsea residents who are first-time entrepreneurs and food business owners interested in becoming vendors at Chelsea Neighborhood Market. The market, intended to create entrepreneurial opportunities and expand food retail options, will be located near residential areas and accessible by public transport. Eligibility is determined based on residency in Chelsea, operation or intention to operate a Chelsea-based food business, and a commitment to being a market vendor for at least three months. APPLY BY APRIL 9, 2024 FOR FIRST CONSIDERATION. APPLICATIONS ARE ACCEPTED ON A ROLLING BASIS UNTIL FUNDING IS EXPENDED.

This program provides funding to private and municipal landowners of conserved properties in Massachusetts to enhance wildlife habitats and improve public access for outdoor recreation.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations that provide career development programs for Black youth aged 14-24 in designated NBA markets.

This funding opportunity supports organizations that partner with startups to advance and scale innovative clean energy technologies in Massachusetts, helping them navigate challenges to achieve commercial success.

This funding opportunity provides $7,500 to individuals or organizations in Cambridge to create artistic projects that promote social justice and engage with underserved communities.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in the Greater Lawrence area of Massachusetts that focus on essential needs like food security, clothing, shelter, and adult education, particularly benefiting the city of Lawrence.

This funding opportunity provides unrestricted financial support to nonprofits and fiscally sponsored organizations in Western Massachusetts, focusing on enhancing social justice, community well-being, and local resilience.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Cambridge that are working to address community challenges and improve local opportunities across various focus areas, including education, health, and economic security.

This funding opportunity supports Cambridge-based organizations in implementing projects that promote healthy eating and physical activity for residents, students, and workers.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts that serve the Asian American and Pacific Islander community, focusing on initiatives that promote collaboration, advocacy, and sustainable impact.