New York Local Grants

The Northeast Dutchess Fund's NEDCorps initiative offers grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 to nonprofits, municipalities, and community organizations in northeast Dutchess County, New York, to develop or expand services for the immigrant community, with a total of $35,000 available for distribution.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to public and private primary and secondary schools in New York City to promote hands-on gardening and farming education for students.

The Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services (DMHSS) is offering a grant program to support Youth Team Sports (YTS) programs for underserved youth under the age of 18. This initiative aims to foster the development and operation of organized physical activities that encourage competition among groups of two or more individuals. The program's mission aligns with the DMHSS's broader goal of promoting the well-being of the community's youth, recognizing the significant role that sports can play in their holistic development. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are underserved youth under 18 in Chautauqua County. The program's impact goals are multifaceted, extending beyond mere physical activity. It seeks to achieve educational connection and achievement, physical health and well-being, mental health and well-being, employment, and community cohesion. These goals highlight a comprehensive approach to youth development, acknowledging the interconnectedness of various aspects of a young person's life. The funding awards are guided by a set of core principles that serve as the program's priorities and focuses. These include educational connection and achievement, emphasizing the link between sports participation and academic success; physical health and well-being, promoting active lifestyles; mental health and well-being, recognizing the positive impact of sports on emotional and psychological health; employment, potentially through skill development and teamwork; and community cohesion, fostering a sense of belonging and collective effort. The expected outcomes and measurable results are tied to these guiding principles. By supporting YTS programs, the DMHSS anticipates improvements in the educational engagement and academic performance of participating youth, enhanced physical fitness and reduced health risks, improved mental resilience and emotional regulation, development of transferable skills that can aid in future employment, and a stronger sense of community and social responsibility among the youth. Each applicant can request up to $15,000 in funding to support programming for the program year of October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025. The program, created under the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), reflects a strategic priority to invest in community-based initiatives that directly address the needs of vulnerable youth. The underlying theory of change posits that by providing access to organized team sports, underserved youth will gain valuable life skills, improve their overall well-being, and become more engaged and productive members of their communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits or other community-based organizations operating in Chautauqua County that meet specific requirements, further underscoring the commitment to local, impactful interventions.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts and New York that enhance their capacity to serve young individuals affected by disabilities and mental health challenges, particularly in historically marginalized communities.

The Onondaga County Agritourism Grant Program, announced by the Onondaga County Department of Planning for 2024, aims to bolster the local agricultural community by enhancing the viability of farmland and protecting farms and operators for future generations. This initiative directly aligns with the broader mission of supporting agricultural sustainability and economic growth within Onondaga County. The program recognizes the critical role agritourism plays in farm viability, tourism, and overall quality of life, positioning itself as a strategic effort to integrate these elements for community benefit. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are local agricultural ventures in Onondaga County, including existing farms and new agritourism startups. The impact goals are centered on improving and expanding agritourism operations, which in turn supports farm viability and contributes to local tourism. By investing in these ventures, the program seeks to create a more robust agricultural economy and enhance the recreational and educational opportunities available to residents and visitors. The program prioritizes projects that fall into four general categories: Improve, Expand, Initiate, and Market. This broad focus allows for a diverse range of projects, from enhancing existing operations to launching entirely new ventures. Specific areas of focus include expanding or diversifying operations, improving safety and ease of access for visitors, and adding new educational programming. New agritourism ventures can also utilize funding to offset initial startup costs, demonstrating a commitment to fostering innovation and growth in the sector. Expected outcomes of the program include a more resilient and economically viable agricultural sector in Onondaga County, increased agritourism offerings, and improved quality of life for residents. Measurable results could include the number of agritourism ventures that receive funding, the types of projects implemented, the growth in revenue for participating farms, and an increase in tourist engagement with local agricultural sites. The strategic priority is to partner with the agricultural community to achieve these outcomes, with the underlying theory of change being that targeted investment in agritourism will lead to enhanced farm viability and broader community benefits.

Grant Opportunity: Cattaraugus County Microenterprise Assistance Program Grant (New York) This program provides funding for microenterprises with five or fewer employees, owned by individuals meeting low- or moderate-income criteria as defined by HUD. Not-for-profit corporations are not eligible. Both existing and startup micro-businesses can apply, with startups defined as businesses that have filed structure documentation within the last 6 months. Applicants must submit a completed application, business plan, and proof of income and family size. The assisted business activity must result in the creation of employment positions consistent with low- and moderate-income benefit provisions. Proof of job creation and employee income will be required before grant funds are disbursed.

This grant provides financial support to primary and secondary schools in New York City to create gardening projects that promote hands-on learning and environmental awareness among students.

The Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation is offering a Mental Wellness Fund to support programs and services provided by nonprofits that focus on the mental well-being and mental health of residents in Cattaraugus County, New York. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to address critical community needs, specifically in the area of mental health, by providing financial support to organizations working directly with the community. The target beneficiaries of this grant are residents of Cattaraugus County, with a particular emphasis on vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals. The overarching impact goal is to improve the mental well-being and mental health outcomes for these residents through accessible and effective programs. The foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate a direct positive impact on these individuals. Grants typically range from $500 to $1,500, with up to $4,000 available for special projects that significantly impact vulnerable or disadvantaged populations. The program explicitly states that grants are limited to 501(c)(3) organizations and generally cannot be used for overhead or start-up costs, indicating a focus on direct program delivery and measurable outcomes. This reflects the foundation's strategic priority to maximize the impact of its funding by supporting established programs. While the grant duration is not explicitly mentioned, the focus on supporting existing programs and services suggests an expectation of sustained positive change. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by funding direct service providers, they can effectively reach and support individuals needing mental health assistance, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more resilient community in Cattaraugus County. Expected outcomes include improved access to mental health services and enhanced mental well-being for county residents, especially those in vulnerable groups.

The Western New York Foundation’s Impact Capacity Assessment Program Core (iCAP Core) is a tailored program specifically designed for emerging and smaller nonprofits in the region. Its primary objective is to provide a comprehensive understanding of capacity building and its influence on both internal and external facets of these organizations. This aligns directly with the foundation's mission to foster effective organizations, which are defined as those that fulfill their mission through sound management, strong governance, and a persistent rededication to assessing and achieving results. The iCAP Core program is a 6-month initiative aimed at addressing the complexities of capacity-related opportunities and challenges, reflecting the foundation's strategic priority to invest in organizational development. The target beneficiaries of the iCAP Core program are non-profit organizations that have obtained tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) or are fiscally sponsored, have been in operation for at least two years with at least $50,000 in annual revenue, and are specifically food system, arts and culture, or rural organizations. These organizations must be headquartered within the seven counties of Western New York: Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, and Wyoming. The impact goals are to strengthen leadership, enhance board effectiveness, improve overall organizational development, and create a sustainable capacity-building plan. The program prioritizes several key elements. A significant focus is placed on leadership, specifically the relationship between the Executive Director and Board Chair, providing one-on-one consultation and coaching to strengthen their skills and vision. Board training is another core priority, equipping members with knowledge for effective governance, strategic decision-making, and resource mobilization. Comprehensive organizational development covers a wide array of areas including leadership structure, financial management, fundraising, communications, marketing, and IT systems. Expected outcomes include enhanced leadership skills, a more informed and skilled board, improved organizational infrastructure across various functions, and the creation of a detailed 1 to 2-year organizational capacity-building plan with actionable goals and progress measurements. Measurable results will be derived from the implementation and assessment of this capacity-building plan, which will also inform future foundation investment in the organizations' capacity development. A $10,000 stipend is provided to offset administrative expenses during iCAP, further supporting the participating nonprofits in achieving these outcomes.

This grant provides funding for nonprofit organizations in the greater Theresa area to support projects that enhance community well-being, education, and cultural initiatives.

Herkimer County CARES Grant Program in New York is open to registered NYS for-profit legal business entities located within Herkimer County. Eligible activities include supporting businesses in manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, agriculture, high technology, research and development, and traditional and innovative small business endeavors. Technical assistance will be provided through the Mohawk Valley Small Business Development Center at no cost to the applicant. The grant aims to create or retain at least one new full-time equivalent job for low-to-moderate income individuals and allows reimbursement of eligible costs dating back to March 2020. Grant funds can be used for marketing adaption, community safety improvements, workforce development, safety enhancements to facilities, efficiency improvements, and air quality improvements. Previous funding received through COVID-19 reimbursement programs is allowed but cannot be duplicated through this program.

The Rhode Island Foundation's Program for Animal Welfare is a grant initiative designed to promote and provide humane treatment for animals across Rhode Island. This program aligns directly with the Foundation's broader mission to take a leading role on animal welfare issues, leveraging thirteen special funds dedicated to the humane treatment and protection of animals. These collective funds underscore the Foundation's strategic priority to address animal welfare comprehensively, reflecting a theory of change that posits that targeted financial support can significantly improve animal well-being at both statewide and community levels. The primary beneficiaries of this program are organizations in Rhode Island that actively work to promote and/or provide humane treatment of animals. This includes organizations focused generally on animal welfare, as well as those with specific projects or programs. The overarching impact goal is to create a positive impact statewide or in individual communities regarding the care, shelter, and maintenance of animals, education about their humane treatment, and general animal welfare. The program specifically excludes individuals from grant eligibility, focusing its resources on established organizations. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly defined. It supports initiatives that improve animal care, shelter, and maintenance, as well as educational efforts that promote humane treatment. Previously funded programs, such as statewide humane education efforts and low-cost spay and neuter initiatives, serve as examples of the types of projects the Foundation prioritizes. The Foundation is also open to considering capital projects, demonstrating a flexible approach to supporting the infrastructure necessary for effective animal welfare work. Expected outcomes include a measurable improvement in animal welfare conditions across Rhode Island, an increase in community awareness regarding humane treatment of animals, and a reduction in issues related to animal neglect or mistreatment. By funding programs like spay and neuter initiatives, the Foundation anticipates a direct impact on controlling animal populations and improving overall animal health. Through humane education, the program aims to foster a more compassionate and responsible community towards animals, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the quality of life for animals throughout the state.

The Aaron Judge ALL RISE Foundation is accepting applications for its Mini-Grant Program, offering $2,500 grants to organizations in Bronx County, NY, Fresno County, CA, and San Joaquin County, CA, that support youth leadership, citizenship, health, school activities, and community involvement.

The Chautauqua County Tourism Product Development Grant Program, with a deadline of 10/01/2024, offers $10,000 to $100,000 for projects that enhance tourism and recreation opportunities, increase visibility, and promote overnight stays in the county, with a focus on event development, marketing, and attraction enhancement.

The Jeannette F. Schlobach grant program, funded by the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley, offers $10,000 to $100,000 to nonprofit organizations in Dutchess, Putnam, or Ulster Counties, New York, that provide services such as case management, housing, education, job training, and health services to residents impacted by poverty, with a focus on historically marginalized and under-funded communities.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in the Berkshire Taconic region for innovative projects that improve environmental quality and promote community health, with a focus on engaging at-risk and low-income youth.

This funding opportunity supports grassroots initiatives, nonprofits, and small businesses in Tompkins County that focus on promoting racial and social equity within historically underserved communities.

This funding opportunity supports businesses and non-profit organizations in Lewis County, NY, by providing financial assistance for creative projects that enhance their visibility in the community.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and event organizers in Cattaraugus County to create tourism-driven events and attractions that encourage visitors to explore the area.

This initiative provides crucial support to small businesses recovering from the pandemic enabling them to thrive and serve our community. Additionally, it acts as financial assistance to attract new businesses into the Downtown Business District. PROGRAM ELEGIBILITY Grant funding is available to small business owners and owners of mixed-use and commercial properties in the Downtown Business District: In good standing with the City of Mount Vernon – i.e. not delinquent on real property, personal or school district taxes) Own a small business or property with ground floor commercial space in Downtown Business District. Business owner must have at least three (3) years remaining on their commercial lease. An active City of Mount Vernon Business Registration number. Demonstrate commitment to program requirements. Own a home-based business and plan to occupy a ground floor commercial space in the Downtown Business District.