Pennsylvania Grants

The Historical & Archival Records Care (HARC) Grant Program, administered by the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) and the State Historical Records Advisory Board (SHRAB), provides competitive grants to non-profits and local governments for the preservation of historically valuable original documents. The grants support projects such as surveying, inventorying, preserving, arranging, describing historical records, and reformatting or purchasing supplies and equipment. The program aims to enhance public access to Pennsylvania's historical records. Projects must adhere to professional archival standards.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is inviting applications for agricultural research grants for projects to be conducted from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2026. The projects should address various critical areas such as pest infestation impacts, Chesapeake Bay farm management practices, pollinator protection, food action plans, urban agriculture, energy in agriculture, animal health, and robotic technology in farming. Funding is contingent upon the 2024-2025 budget appropriations, and the deadline for application submission is June 7, 2024. The department will evaluate the proposals based on a 100-point scale considering project needs, research outcomes, methodology, evaluation and replicability, industry support, and research team diversity.

This program provides funding to non-profit organizations in Pennsylvania to develop and promote tourism initiatives that encourage overnight stays through events, facility improvements, and marketing efforts.

This program provides funding to certified community development financial institutions to strengthen their operations and expand services for small businesses and underserved communities in Pennsylvania.

This funding is available to accredited zoos in Pennsylvania to support their efforts in maintaining high standards of animal care, conservation, and public education.

This program provides funding to support projects that promote business retention, expansion, and attraction by marketing the state as an investment destination and highlighting regional assets.

This program provides funding for community organizations and local governments to acquire technology devices to help bridge the digital divide for those facing affordability challenges.

The FY 2024 Multicultural Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) is a grant initiative by the Executive Office of Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs (MOLA). This program seeks applications from qualified Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) serving the District of Columbia’s Latino Youth community. The core mission of this grant is to provide meaningful and structured summer experiences and career readiness opportunities for District of Columbia youth aged 14-24, aligning with MOLA’s commitment to empowering the Latino community through impactful programs. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are Latino youth residents in the District of Columbia, specifically those between the ages of 14 and 24. The impact goal is to foster career readiness and provide valuable summer experiences that contribute to their overall development and future success. The program aims to achieve significant, lasting change by engaging youth in activities that enhance their well-being and prepare them for future opportunities. The grant prioritizes six key areas: Downtown Comeback, Public Safety, Recreation & All Students on Pathways to Success, Workforce Development, Highlight East of the River, and More Democracy. These priorities reflect the broader strategic goals of the District of Columbia, focusing on urban revitalization, violence reduction, comprehensive youth development, economic empowerment, equitable investment in underserved communities, and civic engagement. Organizations applying for the grant must demonstrate how their proposed services align with at least one of these critical areas. Expected outcomes include increased participation of Latino youth in structured summer programs, enhanced career readiness skills, and improved engagement in community-based initiatives aligned with the funding priorities. The grant's duration is less than one year, with a project period from June 17, 2024, to August 23, 2024. Eligible organizations can receive up to $15,000, which is intended to facilitate the provision of direct services and programming within the District of Columbia. MOLA's theory of change is rooted in the belief that investing in youth, particularly through structured employment and development programs, leads to stronger individuals and more vibrant communities. To be eligible, CBOs must have a Federal 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, be licensed in the District of Columbia, have their principal place of business in the District, and provide direct services to District residents. Additionally, applicants must be in good standing with the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) and the Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR), and current grantees must be current on MOAA reporting obligations and reflect substantial progress towards their grant agreement goals. This rigorous eligibility ensures that funds are directed to reputable organizations capable of delivering impactful programs.

The Public School Environmental Repairs Program was established by Act 33 of 2023 to support public schools with remediating and/or abating environmental hazards in a school building or school buildings. This includes, but is not limited to, addressing lead in water sources and paint, asbestos, and mold. Eliminating lead and asbestos along with other environmental contaminants in schools lowers cumulative exposure throughout childhood, leads to better cognitive and overall health outcomes for children, and increases the likelihood of academic and career success. The program was established under Article XXVI-L of the Public School Code and is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). Program grant funding received by a school district may not be included when calculating the amount to be paid to a charter school under section 1725-A of the School Code (24 P.S. § 17-1725-A).

The Bethlehem Fine Arts Commission (BFAC) offers annual arts grants to area non-profit organizations and K-12 schools to foster artistic and cultural development within the city of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. These grants, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, are designed to support projects and arts-related activities taking place between June 1, 2024, and May 31, 2025. The BFAC's mission is to encourage new works of art, educational programs, exhibits, presentations, performances, and other arts-related endeavors that enrich the community. The primary beneficiaries of these grants are registered 501(c)(3) or non-profit organizations and K-12 schools that are either arts-related in their mission or propose an arts-related project. The impact goal is to stimulate artistic activity and engagement primarily within Bethlehem. Projects must take place in Bethlehem, and organizations are limited to one proposal per funding cycle, ensuring a broad distribution of support across various artistic initiatives. The BFAC prioritizes proposals that focus on creating new works of art, developing educational programs, organizing exhibits, presentations, and performances, and other activities that align with their mission of promoting the arts. Excluded from funding are capital campaigns, annual operating expenses, building purchases, or debt reduction. This strategic focus ensures that the grants directly fund artistic projects and programs rather than organizational infrastructure. Previous grant recipients are eligible to reapply, provided they have submitted their required final reports, which underscores the commission's commitment to accountability and impact measurement. The expected outcomes of the grant program include an increase in diverse arts projects, enhanced arts education opportunities for K-12 students, and a more vibrant cultural scene in Bethlehem. Measurable results will be assessed through project timelines, budgets, and the acknowledgment of BFAC's support in publicity materials, as outlined in the required proposal contents. By fostering these activities, the BFAC aims to strengthen the local arts ecosystem and make art more accessible to the community, reflecting a theory of change where targeted financial support leads to increased artistic output and community engagement.

The Façade Improvement Grant, offered by the Town of Chesapeake City, is designed to support exterior façade projects that restore and promote the integrity of buildings while enhancing the visual characteristics of the community. This program aligns with the broader mission of community development by fostering aesthetic improvements and preserving the architectural heritage of Chesapeake City. It is funded by the State of Maryland’s Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) Community Legacy Program, indicating a strategic focus on local community revitalization through targeted property enhancements. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are property owners within Chesapeake City who are looking to improve the exteriors of their properties. The program aims to achieve several impact goals, including improving the overall visual appeal of the community, preserving historical or architectural integrity of buildings, and stimulating local economic activity through renovation projects. By encouraging property owners to invest in their façades, the program seeks to create a more attractive and vibrant environment for residents and visitors alike. The grant prioritizes and focuses on a variety of exterior façade improvements. Eligible projects encompass fascia and soffit replacement/repair, door and window replacement/repair, porch and step replacement/repair, painting, masonry repair, and repointing of masonry façades. Additionally, the program supports the removal of historically inappropriate features and the installation of historically appropriate or compatible ones, emphasizing a commitment to maintaining the town's character. Expected outcomes include a visible improvement in the condition and appearance of participating properties, leading to an enhanced community aesthetic. Measurable results could include the number of façades improved, the total investment in property renovations, and anecdotal evidence of increased community pride or tourism. The foundation's strategic priorities, as indicated by the funding through DHCD's Community Legacy Program, are centered on supporting initiatives that build stronger communities through physical improvements and cultural preservation, reflecting a theory of change where targeted investments in infrastructure and aesthetics lead to broader community benefits and increased civic engagement.

The West Haven ARPA Grant, administered by The Arts Council of Greater New Haven (ACGNH) in partnership with ArtsWest CT, aims to rapidly stimulate arts and culture activity in West Haven, CT. With $116,250 of ARPA funds from the City of West Haven, the program seeks to distribute microgrants of $2,500-$10,000 to artists, arts organizations, and creative businesses within the city. This initiative aligns with the ACGNH's mission to support and foster arts and culture within the greater New Haven area, extending its reach to West Haven to ensure a vibrant creative economy and community engagement. The target beneficiaries for these microgrants are individuals over 18 years of age, or organizations/collectives with a representative over 18, who are either based in West Haven or proposing a project that directly serves the West Haven community. The primary impact goal is to stimulate artistic, historical, and/or culturally-specific activities within West Haven during the project period of July-August 2024. The program prioritizes proposals that demonstrate feasibility and can be easily executed within the short timeframe, with a strong emphasis on projects that foster equity and inclusion, and strengthen community ties within West Haven. The grant focuses on two main categories for the use of funds: General Operating Support (GOS) and Project Support. GOS includes expenses like rent, equipment purchases/rentals, subscriptions, printing/mailing, and contract labor (e.g., graphic designers, consultants). Project Support covers physical materials, ground transportation, commissions, contract labor (e.g., performers, consultants, designers), advertising, and venue rental. Notably, expenses for salaried employees paid via payroll (W-2 employees) are not eligible, and recipients will receive a 1099, responsible for their own income taxes. Expected outcomes include a rapid increase in arts and culture activities within West Haven during the summer of 2024, with measurable results tied to the feasibility, equity, and community impact of the funded projects. The evaluation criteria, Feasibility, Equity + Inclusion, and Community, are designed to guide applicants towards projects that are not only achievable within the project period but also actively incorporate, serve, and support historically marginalized residents and activate and elevate the broader West Haven community through partnerships. This strategic approach reflects a theory of change where targeted financial support, with an emphasis on local engagement and accessible execution, leads to a flourishing local arts scene and enhanced community well-being.

The Pittsburgh Foundation's Raymond C. and Martha S. Suckling Fund aims to enhance the lives of low-income residents in Sewickley and surrounding communities, aligning with the Foundation's broader mission to support local needs. This grant initiative offers two types of support: Project/Program Support for specific, time-bound programmatic activities, and General Operating Support, which provides flexible funding for an organization's mission-critical costs, including administrative salaries, rent, office supplies, and program expenses. This flexibility recognizes the adaptive needs of nonprofits in addressing evolving community challenges. The target beneficiaries are low-income residents in specific Allegheny and Beaver County communities, including Sewickley, Aliquippa, Ambridge, Haysville, Leetsdale, McKees Rocks, and Coraopolis. The primary impact goal is to improve the lives of these residents, with a strong focus on advancing racial justice. The Foundation prioritizes organizations that are representative of the communities they serve, intentionally serve Black, Indigenous, Latino, and people of color communities, and address the intersection of race with other marginalized groups such as LGBTQIA individuals, people with disabilities, women, and immigrants. Key priorities for funding include organizations with an established history in their communities and those that primarily serve communities disproportionately impacted by poverty. The grant amounts generally range from $10,000 to $75,000 for one-year grants and up to $150,000 for two-year grants. Larger grants may be considered in limited situations for proposals demonstrating clear need and potential impact, especially those aligning with racial justice and the Foundation's focus areas, though a conversation with a program officer is required for requests exceeding $150,000. Expected outcomes include improved living conditions and opportunities for low-income residents, as well as the advancement of racial justice within these communities. While specific measurable results are not detailed, the emphasis on achieving specific goals and milestones for Project/Program Support, and the focus on organizations with a mission to advance racial justice, suggest an expectation of tangible positive change. The Foundation's strategic priority is to support organizations that are deeply rooted in and reflective of the communities they serve, fostering a theory of change that empowers local efforts to address systemic inequalities and improve social determinants of health and well-being.

The Pittsburgh Foundation is offering its Direct Care and Medical Assistance for Specific Disease Areas grant, stemming from the Robert N. Kohman Trust established in 2003. This fund is specifically designed to support social service organizations that provide direct care and assistance to individuals suffering from a range of serious afflictions, including Alzheimer’s disease, AIDS, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. The grant program aligns directly with the foundation's mission to address critical community needs, particularly those related to health and well-being, by supporting organizations that offer tangible assistance to vulnerable populations. The target beneficiaries of this grant are individuals experiencing severe and chronic health conditions within Allegheny County. The foundation seeks to empower organizations that provide direct care and support, aiming for a significant impact on the lives of those affected by these diseases. By focusing on direct care, the grant intends to improve the quality of life, access to necessary services, and overall well-being of the beneficiaries, contributing to a more resilient and supported community. The foundation prioritizes funding for organizations that demonstrate a deep connection to and representation of the communities they serve. A strong emphasis is placed on intentionally serving Black, Indigenous, Latino, and people of color communities, as well as addressing the intersection of race with other marginalized groups such such as LGBTQIA individuals, those with disabilities, women, the elderly, and immigrants. Additionally, organizations with a mission or programs that actively advance racial justice and those with an established history in their communities are highly favored. The grant also prioritizes organizations that primarily serve communities disproportionately impacted by poverty, reflecting the foundation's strategic commitment to equity and social justice. Organizations can apply for two types of support: Project/Program Support, which funds specific, time-bound programmatic activities with clear goals, and General Operating Support, which provides flexible funding for an organization's overall mission-related expenses, including administrative costs, rent, and program delivery. Grant durations are generally up to two years, with one-year grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $75,000 and two-year grants not exceeding $150,000. For larger requests, organizations are encouraged to consult with a program officer. The foundation's strategic approach underscores the belief that by supporting organizations deeply rooted in affected communities and focused on racial justice, measurable improvements in health outcomes and a reduction in health disparities can be achieved.

The City of St. Petersburg's Arts and Culture Grant provides operating funds to eligible non-profit organizations whose primary mission is arts or culture programming. This initiative aligns with the Mayor’s Pillars for Progress, which emphasize arts and culture, education, and youth opportunities. The grant seeks to support organizations that enrich the vibrant cultural landscape and serve the diverse citizens of St. Petersburg, fostering both established artistic expressions and new or emerging talent. The overarching mission is to enhance community well-being through accessible and inclusive cultural experiences. The target beneficiaries are non-profit arts and culture organizations that provide programming and services to the residents of St. Petersburg. The grant aims to support these organizations in their efforts to contribute to the city's cultural vitality. The impact goals include sustaining existing cultural institutions, encouraging innovation in artistic expression, and promoting intentional inclusivity throughout the city's arts and culture scene. This contributes to the city's strategic priority of cultural enrichment and community development. The grant prioritizes organizations that demonstrate a commitment to serving St. Pete residents, providing more than 50% of their programming and attendance within the city. It also focuses on organizations with a proven track record, having been in existence and providing services for at least one year. Furthermore, the grant encourages organizations to foster new artistic expressions and ensure inclusivity in their programming, aligning with the city's broader vision of a dynamic and diverse cultural environment. Expected outcomes include a stronger, more diverse, and more accessible arts and culture sector in St. Petersburg. Measurable results will be tied to the continued operation and growth of grant-funded organizations, the expansion of cultural programming, increased attendance, and the engagement of diverse communities. The grant's theory of change posits that by providing operational funding to qualifying arts and culture organizations, the city can directly contribute to a thriving cultural ecosystem that benefits all residents and visitors, reinforcing the Mayor's Pillars for Progress.

The Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers is offering a grant of $4300 in 2024 to non-profit organizations, including 501(c)(3) agencies, that serve the Borough of Knoxville, Tioga County, Pennsylvania for charitable, scientific, or educational purposes.

The Adams County Community Foundation's Adams County Grants program is designed to foster innovative solutions for strengthening vulnerable populations by addressing systemic issues. The foundation's mission is aligned with this program through its commitment to creating a meaningful and sustained difference in people’s lives, particularly low-income residents, by helping them move toward self-sufficiency. This overarching goal guides the program's focus on supporting initiatives that build capacity, implement effective programs, and foster collaboration within the community. The program primarily targets vulnerable residents of Adams County, Pennsylvania. The impact goals are to help nonprofits become more effective in addressing resident needs, enable low-income residents to achieve self-sufficiency, and advance critical areas such as affordable housing, transportation, and economic development through collaborative efforts. By focusing on these areas, the foundation aims to create a ripple effect that improves the overall well-being and stability of the community. The Adams County Grants program has three primary focus areas: Capacity Building Grants, Program Grants, and Collaboration Grants. Capacity Building Grants, up to $25,000, are intended to strengthen nonprofits' ability to effectively serve vulnerable residents. Program Grants, also up to $25,000, support initiatives that help low-income residents move towards self-sufficiency. Collaboration Grants, up to $30,000, are specifically for significant collaborative projects that advance affordable housing, transportation, and economic development. These defined priorities ensure that funding is directed towards projects with the greatest potential for systemic impact. Expected outcomes include increased effectiveness of nonprofits, a measurable increase in self-sufficiency among low-income residents, and tangible progress in affordable housing, transportation, and economic development initiatives. The foundation's strategic priorities are evident in the emphasis on systemic change and collaboration, with a clear theory of change that by investing in capacity building, impactful programs, and collaborative projects, they can achieve lasting positive change for vulnerable individuals and the wider community.

The Edna W. Andrade Fund, a Donor Advised Fund of the Philadelphia Foundation, is dedicated to supporting visual fine artists from the Greater Philadelphia area. This grant program aligns directly with the Philadelphia Foundation's mission by channeling resources to enhance the local and national art landscape, specifically benefiting artists working in painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, or sculpture. The foundation acts as a facilitator, allowing donors like the Edna W. Andrade Fund to address specific community needs and artistic development within its broader philanthropic framework. The primary beneficiaries of this fund are visual fine artists residing in the Greater Philadelphia area, which encompasses Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties in Pennsylvania, and Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, and Mercer counties in New Jersey. The impact goals are to foster artistic careers, increase visibility for regional artists, and enrich the cultural fabric of the Greater Philadelphia area. This is achieved by providing financial support that enables the purchase or commission of artworks, funds one-person exhibitions, and supports artists engaged in educational, cultural, humanitarian, or environmental projects through nonprofit fiscal agents. The fund prioritizes organizations with 501(c)(3) status that have a proven track record of creating, curating, producing, or presenting at least three professional public exhibits or projects within the last five years. There is also a strong focus on non-discrimination, requiring organizations to have adopted a policy inclusive of various protected characteristics. This ensures that the support reaches a diverse range of artists and promotes equitable access to funding opportunities. The strategic priority is to strengthen the visual arts community by empowering both artists and the institutions that support them. The expected outcomes include an increase in the number of commissioned and purchased artworks by Greater Philadelphia artists, a greater prevalence of one-person exhibitions showcasing local talent, and the successful execution of various community-focused artistic projects. Measurable results could include tracking the number of grants awarded, the number of artists directly supported, the number and attendance of exhibitions funded, and the scope and reach of projects undertaken. The foundation's theory of change, in this context, is that by investing in artists and supportive organizations, it can cultivate a more vibrant and sustainable artistic ecosystem that benefits both creators and the wider community.

The Adams County Community Foundation is offering a competitive grant program up to $1,000 for nonprofit leadership development. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to strengthen the capacity and effectiveness of nonprofit organizations within Adams County. By investing in leadership development, the foundation aims to empower local nonprofits to more effectively carry out their missions and serve the community. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are Adams County nonprofit executive directors and board members. The impact goal is to increase their knowledge and effectiveness in leadership roles. This includes participation in training opportunities focusing on strategic planning, reorganization, and leadership development for staff and board members. The foundation prioritizes activities that directly enhance a nonprofit's ability to achieve its objectives. Eligibility criteria stipulate that applicants must be in a paid or volunteer leadership position (Executive Director or a position leading to Executive Director or Board Chair) for a qualified 501(c)(3) charity. The program considers the financial need of both the organization and the individual. Eligible activities include college courses, certification programs, or professional conferences in finance, fundraising, human resources, or other relevant skills. Travel and lodging costs may also be covered. The expected outcomes of this grant program are sound and measurable, emphasizing tangible improvements in leadership capabilities and organizational effectiveness. While the specific measurable results are not detailed, the objective to "increase their knowledge and effectiveness" suggests that participants will gain practical skills and implement new strategies. The grant funds will be paid directly to the nonprofit organization, not to individuals, ensuring that the investment supports the institutional growth and sustainability of Adams County's vital nonprofit sector.

The City of Scranton is offering $75,000 in grants for pre-apprenticeship programs in building trades and carpentry. These grants are designed to create employment opportunities for residents of Scranton, aligning with the city's mission to foster local economic development and workforce growth. The program aims to support organizations that can effectively prepare individuals for skilled trades, thereby addressing local employment needs and promoting career readiness within the community. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are pre-apprenticeship programs and the residents of Scranton seeking employment in the building trades and carpentry sectors. The impact goals include increasing the number of skilled workers in the city and reducing unemployment among Scranton residents. The grants prioritize programs that offer structured apprenticeship opportunities and can demonstrate a clear pathway to employment for participants. To be eligible, applicants must be registered pre-apprenticeship programs. They are required to submit a comprehensive budget, outline the expected outcomes of their program, and detail how successes will be measured. This focus on clear objectives and measurable results ensures that funding is directed towards programs with a high potential for positive community impact and accountability. The maximum grant award per application is $25,000, and the overall grant size ranges from $10,000 to $100,000. While a specific grant duration is not mentioned, the emphasis on expected outcomes and evaluation suggests a commitment to long-term impact. The City of Scranton's strategic priority is to strengthen its local workforce and economy through targeted investments in education and vocational training. The theory of change is that by supporting pre-apprenticeship programs, the city can directly contribute to skill development, job creation, and sustained economic growth for its residents.