Virginia Grants

This fellowship program supports entrepreneurs in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area who are developing innovative solutions for climate change mitigation, adaptation, and resilience.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and government entities for projects that improve education, address essential human needs, promote social justice, and support environmental stewardship in communities served by American Electric Power.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to grassroots organizations in Appalachia to enhance their skills and capacity for social change through training and development.

This funding provides financial support to organizations in select states to expand early childhood education and care services for low-income infants and toddlers, ensuring they receive essential developmental, educational, and health services.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to organizations that deliver high-quality early childhood education and family services to low-income children and families across multiple states in the U.S.

This grant provides funding to partnerships and organizations working to improve water quality and habitats in the Chesapeake Bay watershed through innovative practices that reduce nutrient and sediment pollution.

The Business Women’s Giving Circle (BWGC) of the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia awards grants to support innovative STEM opportunities for girls and young women in the region. Since 2014, the BWGC has awarded over $520,000 in grants, aligning with the Foundation's mission to foster positive community impact by supporting initiatives in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), Leadership, and Entrepreneurship. This grant program is a key part of the Foundation's strategic approach to investing in the future workforce and leadership within Northern Virginia. The target beneficiaries are girls and young women, from preschool through college-age, residing in Northern Virginia. Specifically, organizations providing services in Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William counties, as well as the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, and Manassas Park, are eligible. The impact goal is to create measurable positive changes in the lives of these girls and young women by providing them with exciting and enriching experiences in STEM, leadership, and entrepreneurship, thereby contributing to their educational and career development. The BWGC grant cycle prioritizes nonprofit organizations and schools that offer STEM programs with an emphasis on innovative components such as entrepreneurship, leadership, or mentorship. Funding is considered for both existing and new programs that directly support these areas. Applications for general organizational support, capital improvements, endowments, or scholarship awards are not considered, highlighting the program's focus on direct program delivery and innovation. Expected outcomes include increased participation and engagement of girls and young women in STEM fields, enhanced leadership skills, and the development of entrepreneurial mindsets. Measurable results are demonstrated by the impact on over 3,500 girls and young women since 2014. The Foundation's theory of change posits that by investing in innovative STEM, leadership, and entrepreneurship programs for girls and young women, they will empower the next generation of leaders and innovators, contributing to the economic vitality and social well-being of Northern Virginia.

The Ursula Landsrath Animal Rescue Fund (ULARF) is offering grants for its 2024 cycle, continuing the legacy of Ursula Landsrath, a dedicated animal welfare advocate. Founded in 2019 as a tribute to Ursula, ULARF builds upon her previous work with the Animal Rescue Fund of Virginia, which distributed over $1 million in grants. The fund's mission is deeply aligned with its founder's lifelong commitment to animal welfare, supporting nonprofit organizations that serve or rescue animals within Virginia. This grant program is a direct reflection of Ursula Landsrath's strategic priority to protect and care for animals, ensuring her advocacy continues to have a tangible impact. ULARF targets nonprofit animal welfare organizations that are incorporated and operational in Virginia, serving or rescuing animals in the Commonwealth. These beneficiaries include organizations working with farm, domestic, and wild animals. The overall impact goal is to improve animal welfare in Virginia through various initiatives, ranging from direct care to preventative measures and public education. By supporting these organizations, ULARF aims to create a more humane environment for animals across the state, fostering better health, safety, and reduced suffering. The grant program has clear funding priorities and focuses. These include spay/neuter and Trap Neuter Return programs for feral cats, emergency medical funds for various animal types, costs for emergency repairs to organization facilities, and expenses for public outreach and education programs. Additionally, ULARF prioritizes Virginia-based regional animal assistance organizations that provide support to smaller, local rescue groups. These priorities align with a theory of change that by addressing critical needs like population control, emergency care, infrastructure, and public awareness, a significant positive impact on animal welfare can be achieved. Grants are expected to range from $1,000 to $3,000 per organization, with an overall size of the grant ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in terms of quantitative targets, the expected outcomes include increased spay/neuter rates, improved access to emergency medical care for animals, enhanced operational capacity of rescue facilities, and broader public understanding of animal welfare issues. The foundation's strategic priority is to fund direct services and support infrastructure that directly benefit animals, rather than administrative or fundraising costs, ensuring that the grants lead to direct and measurable improvements in animal well-being.

The Virginia Department of Energy invites proposals for energy innovation within the Commonwealth of Virginia, with grants awarded at its discretion through the Virginia Power Innovation Fund and Program. This initiative is designed to support research and development of innovative energy technologies, including nuclear, hydrogen, carbon capture and utilization, and energy storage. The program aligns with the department's mission to foster energy advancement and secure Virginia's energy future through competitive grants. The program aims to establish a Virginia nuclear innovation hub and award grants to support energy innovation across the Commonwealth. Target beneficiaries include higher education institutions conducting research on advanced nuclear and advanced reactor technologies, and programs focused on nuclear energy workforce development. The initiative also supports site selection for future small modular reactor projects in Virginia. The overarching impact goals are to enhance energy affordability, reliability, and clean energy objectives within the Commonwealth. Key priorities for grant awards include projects demonstrating a strong return on investment, significant impact on energy affordability and reliability, and alignment with clean energy goals. The department also prioritizes capital investment and the utilization of research-based technologies. The program's focus areas are critical for advancing a diverse energy portfolio and ensuring long-term energy security for Virginia. Expected outcomes include advancements in innovative energy technologies, a more robust nuclear energy sector in Virginia, and a skilled workforce capable of supporting these developments. Measurable results will be assessed based on the return on investment, the positive impact on energy metrics within the Commonwealth, and the successful implementation of research-based technologies. The Virginia Department of Energy, in collaboration with the Virginia Nuclear Energy Consortium and the Secretary of Commerce and Trade, will oversee the grants and ensure thorough reporting on each project. Funding for individual grants can range from $10,000 to $1,000,000, with an overall program funding cap of up to $3 million, pending available funds.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to local governments, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations in the Eastern District of Virginia to implement innovative strategies aimed at reducing violent crime, particularly gun violence and gang activity.

This funding opportunity provides up to $5,000 for nonprofit organizations and government entities to implement projects that enhance parks, recreation, and arts and culture in the greater Virginia area.

This funding opportunity is designed to support nonprofit organizations in Rockingham County, Virginia, focusing on crisis intervention, improving human services, cultural development, and promoting civic engagement within the community.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations focused on improving their services for low- to moderate-income and historically underserved communities through strategic investments in planning, staff development, and technology.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in specific eastern U.S. states for projects that focus on human needs, environmental stewardship, education, and community vitality.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and public entities in implementing programs that benefit low- to moderate-income individuals and historically underserved communities.

The Louise R. Lester Foundation aims to foster positive change within communities and improve the lives of individuals through its philanthropic endeavors. The Foundation's mission is directly aligned with supporting nonprofit religious, scientific, literary, humanitarian, or educational organizations, serving as a critical resource for areas of need that are not adequately addressed by existing local charitable communities. This strategic alignment ensures that the Foundation's grants directly contribute to its overarching goal of effecting meaningful societal improvement. The primary beneficiaries of the Foundation's grants are tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations that fall within its specified areas of support. The Foundation explicitly states that it does not provide financial assistance to individuals, sports teams/events, or political candidates/organizations. The impact goal is to provide resources to underserved areas, thereby strengthening the capacity of nonprofit organizations to deliver essential services and programs. The Foundation's priorities and focus areas are geographically centered, specifically targeting the Roanoke Valley area of Virginia, the greater Henry County area of Virginia, and the Smith Mountain Lake region of Virginia. Other areas may be considered at the discretion of the Board of Directors. Beyond geography, the Foundation is keen on supporting organizations that demonstrate sound financial planning and solid management practices. This indicates a strategic priority on organizational sustainability and responsible stewardship of funds, reflecting a theory of change that effective management leads to greater impact. Expected outcomes include the enhancement of services provided by nonprofit organizations in the specified regions and the addressing of critical community needs. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided text, the emphasis on sound financial planning and management implies an expectation of efficient and impactful use of funds. The Foundation's strategic priorities are rooted in addressing unmet needs and supporting well-managed organizations, with the understanding that such support will lead to positive and lasting community improvements. The Foundation operates with the understanding that its limited funds mean not all requests can be fulfilled, emphasizing the competitive nature and the high standards for selection based on merit and alignment with its mission and priorities.

The Women's Entrepreneur Grant Opportunity aims to support women-owned businesses in Fairfax City by providing consultation and capacity-building services to facilitate their growth, expansion, and development. Eligible businesses can receive services valued at up to $5,000, which cover areas such as marketing, operations, accounting, and finance. The grant funds will be awarded upfront, and recipients will be notified by September 20, 2024, with recognition at the Women’s Entrepreneur Empowerment Luncheon on September 25, 2024. To be eligible, businesses must be at least 51% owned and controlled by women, licensed within Fairfax City, and can be home-based or have one or more locations within the city. Start-ups and expanding businesses are also eligible, while non-profits are not. The application process involves verifying eligibility, completing and submitting the application form, identifying required services, obtaining quotes, and undergoing a review based on merit.

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Grant Program, offered through the United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia in partnership with the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), aims to provide federal funds for comprehensive, collaborative, and community-based approaches to reducing violent crime. The program's mission aligns with supporting organizations within the Western District of Virginia in their efforts to mitigate gun and gang violence. This initiative seeks to foster public safety by supporting a broad range of activities, including deterrence efforts, evidence-based programs, proven enforcement strategies, and the prosecution of significant firearm, controlled substance, and violent crime offenses. The grant targets local and state law enforcement agencies, local and state governmental entities, educational institutions, and 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations located in or serving the cities of Roanoke, Lynchburg, Danville, and Charlottesville (including Albemarle County). Multi-jurisdictional partnerships are also eligible. The primary impact goal is to reduce violent crime through a full range of appropriate strategies. Expected outcomes include a decrease in gun and gang violence, stronger community trust in law enforcement, and a more effective justice system in addressing violent offenses. The program prioritizes four key PSN design features. "Community Engagement" emphasizes meaningful communication and relationship-building between communities, law enforcement, prosecutors, and other stakeholders to build trust and shared public safety values. "Prevention and Intervention Effective" focuses on problem-solving approaches that address violent crime by leveraging resources like education, social services, job training, and reentry programs to provide individuals with skills and alternatives. "Focused and Strategic Enforcement" directs efforts towards identifying and addressing problem places and prolific offenders driving violent crime, often involving gangs and violent street groups. This includes utilizing technology and analytics, developing enforcement strategies, and deterring violence through public awareness. Finally, "Accountability" highlights the importance of analyzing and assessing the impact of PSN strategies on violent crime and community health, often in partnership with research entities, to ensure the program's success and credibility. The funding available is approximately $302,000, with grants awarded for a twelve-month period, potentially extending to 24 months based on need.

The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) is offering grant funds through its Combatting Hate Crimes Grant Program. This program aims to minimize bias-motivated incidents by providing competitive grants to local governments that have established partnerships with eligible non-profit, 501(c)3 institutions and organizations. These organizations are either current targets or at risk of being targets of hate crimes based on race, religious conviction, color, gender, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or national origin. The broader mission of this initiative aligns with public safety and social justice, seeking to protect vulnerable communities and promote an inclusive environment free from bias-motivated violence. The primary beneficiaries of this program are local governments and their partner non-profit, 501(c)3 institutions, and similarly situated organizations within their jurisdictions. These organizations are at risk for targeted, bias-motivated violence. The impact goal is to reduce the occurrence of hate crimes by strengthening the security and resilience of these at-risk entities. Expected outcomes include enhanced physical and cybersecurity, improved staff preparedness to respond to incidents, and a decrease in vulnerabilities identified through threat assessments. The program strategically prioritizes localities that demonstrate a proactive approach to risk mitigation, specifically those that have conducted threat assessments with local crime prevention officers. The program's focus is on funding projects that enhance security and preparedness against hate crimes. This includes support for target hardening activities, critical technology and infrastructure, and security and monitoring equipment. Additionally, funds can be used for contractual security services, such as on-site security, cybersecurity activities, and inspection and screening systems. Training is also a key priority, encompassing security-related training for employed and volunteer staff, response to serious incidents, and terrorism awareness. Personnel funding is available for part-time staff dedicated to performing security assessments for non-profit organizations. The grant duration is a twelve-month period, from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025. The total funding available for the Combatting Hate Crimes Grant Program for the FY2025 fiscal year is $3,500,000, with a maximum request of $150,000 per locality. Success will be measured by the implementation of approved security enhancements, documented training completion, and the capacity building of non-profit organizations to identify and address vulnerabilities. The program's theory of change posits that by providing resources for enhanced security, training, and threat assessment, at-risk organizations will become less susceptible to bias-motivated violence, thereby contributing to a safer community for all.

The City of Virginia Beach's Community Organization Grants (COG) program is designed to award monetary grants to qualified non-profit organizations. The primary mission of this program is to encourage these agencies to provide services that enhance the quality of life for residents of Virginia Beach. This directly aligns with the city's strategic priorities to support community well-being and leverage the efforts of independent non-profit entities in addressing local needs. The program's theory of change posits that by funding these non-profits, the city can foster a more robust and responsive network of services, ultimately leading to tangible improvements in residents' daily lives. The target beneficiaries of the COG program are the residents of Virginia Beach, who receive significant, measurable direct services from the funded non-profit organizations. The impact goals are centered on improving various aspects of the quality of life within the city. Organizations must demonstrate their ability to provide an unduplicated count of residents served, ensuring that the grants lead to widespread and distinct benefits across the community. The COG program has several key priorities and focuses, including ensuring that applicants are established 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations meeting legal requirements in Virginia, the IRS, and the City of Virginia Beach. A crucial focus is that the applicant's non-profit status must be independent of the City. Additionally, the program prioritizes organizations that are not controlled by a church or sectarian society and do not advocate or advance a particular political or religious viewpoint. Financial transparency is also a priority, with requirements for disclosing contractual services provided to the City. Expected outcomes include a diverse range of improved services for Virginia Beach residents, an increase in community engagement, and a strengthened non-profit sector within the city. Measurable results are derived from the requirement for organizations to provide an unduplicated count of residents served and to fulfill all service, reporting, auditing, and payment obligations. The program also expects compliance with all local, state, and national legal requirements related to nondiscrimination in all programs and activities funded. The grant funds are strictly to remain local, ensuring that the investments directly benefit the Virginia Beach community.