Alabama Private Grants

The Donaldson Foundation dedicates its efforts to making a positive impact in communities where Donaldson Company employees reside, focusing on supporting educational initiatives. It extends grant invitations exclusively to applications with an educational aim, scrutinizing each based on criteria such as educational focus, the need of beneficiaries, impact, sustainability, and connection to communities near company locations. Eligible recipients are required to be IRS-recognized tax-exempt entities. Funding is available in the Twin Cities and several U.S. locations where Donaldson has significant operations, with grants reaching up to $20,000. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual Cycle 2 deadline: January 15th

The 2025 gBETA Huntsville Accelerator Program, run by gener8tor, is a free, seven-week accelerator designed for early-stage companies with local roots in Alabama. This program aims to support the growth of new businesses by providing individualized coaching, mentorship, and opportunities for investor engagement. The program aligns with a mission to foster economic development and innovation within local communities by nurturing nascent companies and preparing them for further investment or seed rounds. It operates multiple times a year across various U.S. cities, selecting up to five companies per cohort from a competitive applicant pool. The target beneficiaries of the gBETA Huntsville program are early-stage companies based in Alabama. These companies can range from those with a nascent idea to those with significant revenue, though most are typically post-product and pre-scale. The program prioritizes companies that are committed to growth, evidenced by a five-hour weekly programming commitment and additional time spent developing their business. The impact goal is to propel these companies toward participating in investment accelerators or successfully raising a seed round, thereby contributing to the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. The program's core focuses include individualized coaching and mentorship from gener8tor on company growth and investor readiness. Participants also benefit from weekly "Lunch & Learns" and "Mentor Swarms," as well as investor and accelerator pitches. Another key priority is providing access to over $1M in deals and perks from a network of vendors like IBM Cloud, Rackspace, Amazon, Paypal, Zendesk, Hubspot, and Microsoft. These resources are strategically provided to enhance the companies' operational capabilities and market reach. Expected outcomes include significant advancements in company growth and investor readiness for participating businesses. Measurable results would be the number of graduates that go on to secure investment accelerator placements or successfully raise seed funding. The program's strategic priorities are centered on creating a robust support system for local startups, offering ongoing post-program support, and fostering community involvement. This approach reflects a theory of change where intensive, short-term acceleration, coupled with ongoing community and resource access, leads to sustainable growth and investment for early-stage companies, ultimately bolstering regional economic vitality.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations, schools, and government agencies in Limestone, Madison, and Morgan Counties, Alabama, for programs that enhance education, workforce development, and quality of life in the community.

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s Gulf Research Program (GRP) is inviting proposals for its "Building the Next Generation of STEMM Leaders in the Field of Environmental Justice" initiative. This grant opportunity is designed to support projects that develop and implement programs cultivating future STEMM leaders in Environmental Justice (EJ). The GRP's mission, as evident in this program, aligns with fostering scientific literacy and addressing critical environmental challenges through education and mentorship. The grant aims to raise awareness, expand understanding, and empower young people to apply STEMM disciplines to explore the relationship between environmental hazards and their effects on community health and resilience. The primary beneficiaries of this program are young people in grades 9-12, particularly those from communities affected by environmental inequalities in the United States Gulf of Mexico region. The impact goal is to increase the number of young people in this region who pursue studies and careers in STEMM disciplines within the field of Environmental Justice. The program specifically encourages collaborations with nonprofit or community-based organizations that have a history of working with children and youth, especially underrepresented or underserved populations such as racial/ethnic minorities, tribal youth, LGBTQ+ youth, students with low socio-economic status, children with disabilities, first-generation immigrants, and students from rural or remote areas. The core focus of this funding opportunity is on education and mentorship. Projects should provide youth with opportunities to learn about and apply STEMM principles in examining environmental hazards and their impact on communities. Activities can take place in both formal and informal educational settings, but must target 9th-12th graders and complement formal education standards. The GRP prioritizes proposals that foster the development of scientific and environmental literacy, skills, and competencies crucial for cultivating the next generation of EJ leaders. Expected outcomes include increased awareness and understanding among youth regarding environmental hazards and their effects on communities, as well as enhanced capacity for youth to pursue STEMM studies and/or careers in Environmental Justice. The GRP anticipates a measurable increase in the number of young people in the Gulf of Mexico region engaging with STEMM disciplines related to EJ. This grant operates with a strategic priority of building human capacity and fostering a more equitable and resilient future by empowering youth to address environmental challenges. The theory of change behind this initiative is that by investing in early education and mentorship in STEMM and EJ, the GRP can create a pipeline of informed and capable leaders who will contribute to solving complex environmental issues in vulnerable communities.

The Central Alabama Community Foundation (CACF) offers Technical Assistance Grants designed to bolster the internal operations and overall effectiveness of nonprofit organizations situated in Lowndes, Macon, and/or Montgomery counties, Alabama. These grants align with the foundation's mission to support and strengthen the community by investing in the capacity of its nonprofit sector. By providing essential operational support, CACF aims to foster more robust and impactful organizations that can better serve their constituents and address critical community needs. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are nonprofit organizations operating within the specified Alabama counties that are seeking to enhance their foundational infrastructure and strategic capabilities. The impact goals are centered on improving organizational efficiency, strengthening governance, and ultimately leading to more effective program delivery and sustainable community impact. The grant directly addresses these goals by offering funding for key areas of organizational development. The program prioritizes several critical areas for organizational improvement. Funding is available for strategic planning, which helps organizations define their long-term vision and roadmap for success. It also supports organizational and board infrastructure development, ensuring strong governance and operational frameworks. Furthermore, the grants focus on fund development and marketing/public relations, enabling nonprofits to secure necessary resources and effectively communicate their mission and impact to a wider audience. The maximum award for a single grant application is $3,000, with the overall grant size ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. The expected outcomes of these grants include more strategically aligned organizations, improved operational efficiency, enhanced fundraising capabilities, and increased public awareness and support for the beneficiary nonprofits. Measurable results could include the development of a comprehensive strategic plan, the establishment of a more effective board, an increase in secured funding, or an expanded reach through improved marketing efforts. While the grant duration is not explicitly mentioned, the focus is on providing targeted support for specific capacity-building initiatives. CACF's strategic priorities and theory of change appear to be rooted in the belief that by strengthening the organizational health of nonprofits, they can amplify their collective impact on the community. By investing in technical assistance, the foundation enables these organizations to move beyond immediate programmatic needs and build long-term sustainability and resilience. This approach ensures that funding translates into enduring improvements in how nonprofits operate and serve their communities, fostering a more vibrant and effective social sector in Central Alabama.

The LGBTQ Fund at the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham has released its Request for Proposals (RFP) for the 2024 Grant Cycle, aiming to support organizations that strengthen the infrastructure of LGBTQ-led or serving groups, provide services to LGBTQ youth, individuals, and families, and offer educational opportunities highlighting the needs of the LGBTQ community. The fund also seeks to advance collaboration between LGBTQ organizations and other community groups, and support nonprofit partners working on public policy and social justice issues that intersect with LGBTQ concerns. The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham's mission to enhance the quality of life in the region aligns with the LGBTQ Fund's goals by fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all community members, particularly those from historically marginalized groups. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are LGBTQ persons, with a particular focus on underserved communities including people of color, youth, seniors, transgender individuals, gender non-binary persons, and those in rural areas. The impact goals are to improve the well-being and equity of these communities through various support systems. Expected outcomes include stronger LGBTQ organizations, increased access to vital services for LGBTQ individuals and families, greater public understanding and acceptance through education, and more effective advocacy for LGBTQ rights and social justice. Measurable results could include the number of organizations supported, the number of individuals served, the reach of educational programs, and the impact of policy initiatives. Priority will be given to proposals that specifically address the needs of demonstrably underserved LGBTQ communities, emphasizing an intersectional approach. This includes programs focusing on inclusive healthcare and mental health services, immigrant advocacy, racial and economic justice, and initiatives promoting faith and acceptance. The typical grant amounts range from $3,000 to $7,000, with the fund also considering general operating expenses if justified in the application. This strategic focus ensures that resources are directed towards areas with the most significant need and potential for transformative impact within the LGBTQ community in Central Alabama. Grants are awarded to non-profit organizations in Central Alabama, specifically in Blount, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, and Walker counties, that either directly serve the LGBTQ community or are expanding existing programs to be inclusive and affirming of LGBTQ persons. Organizations not currently designated as a 501(c)(3) non-profit are encouraged to apply using a fiscal sponsor. This demonstrates the Foundation's strategic priority of building capacity within the non-profit sector and its theory of change, which posits that by empowering and funding organizations dedicated to LGBTQ issues, they can create a more equitable, supportive, and inclusive Central Alabama for all LGBTQ individuals.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in Baldwin County, Alabama, and surrounding areas to support programs that assist people and animals facing hardship, neglect, or abuse.

The Nahikian Family Foundation provides grant funding to support initiatives that promote mental health, healing, and independent living. Its mission centers on enhancing quality of life through programs that foster emotional well-being, physical recovery, and humane connections between people and animals. The foundation supports work in the areas of **environment and animals**, **health**, and **human services**, with a particular interest in projects that tangibly improve the lives of vulnerable or underserved populations. While the foundation accepts proposals from across the United States, it places strong geographic emphasis on **Alabama, Florida, Michigan, and South Carolina**—the home states of Nahikian family members. Within these regions, preference is often given to **capital projects**, such as facility improvements or expansions that enhance an organization’s capacity to deliver direct services. Funding decisions prioritize projects that embody compassion, sustainability, and practical impact, aligning with the foundation’s focus on long-term community well-being. The foundation supports a range of beneficiaries, including **children, service and assistance dogs, and companion animals**. This reflects its holistic approach to healing and independence—recognizing the vital role animals can play in emotional recovery and in improving the quality of life for individuals facing physical or mental health challenges. Programs that link therapeutic interventions with animal care or environmental stewardship are especially well-aligned with the foundation’s interests. To be eligible, applicants must be **IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations**. All applications must be submitted through the foundation’s **online grant application portal**, though an alternative accessible version is available for users requiring assistive technology. The foundation’s process emphasizes accessibility and inclusion, ensuring all qualified applicants have the opportunity to apply. Though specific grant sizes and durations are not published, the Nahikian Family Foundation typically prioritizes projects with clear, measurable outcomes and a strong potential for lasting benefit. Through its giving, the foundation continues to advance its vision of communities where individuals—human and animal alike—can heal, grow, and thrive with dignity and independence.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in West Alabama to address critical community needs in areas such as arts, education, health, and social welfare through innovative and collaborative projects.

The Women's Philanthropy Society is offering grants to support a legacy of love and an enduring gift for future generations, addressing a broad spectrum of issues that impact community quality of life. For 2024, the Society has chosen Health & Wellness as its focus issue. This grant program aims to strategically address this focus area, align with the Society's philanthropic mission, and contribute to systemic change in the community. The target beneficiaries are organizations described in Code Section 170(c)(2), 501(c)(3), 2055(a)(2) or 2522(a)(2), excluding private foundations. This also includes schools, religious institutions, or government agencies located in the Greater Huntsville area. The grants are intended to create a positive impact on the health and wellness of the community, with a specific focus on the Greater Huntsville, Alabama geographic area, including Jackson, Limestone, Madison, Marshall, and/or Morgan counties. Priority will be given to projects that strategically address the Health & Wellness focus area, involve more than one agency or organization and are collaborative in nature, address a desired systemic change, and provide clear and measurable outcomes. The funding information indicates that up to two high-impact $50,000 grants may be awarded, with the overall grant size ranging from $10,000 to $100,000. Expected outcomes include measurable improvements in health and wellness within the Greater Huntsville area, facilitated by collaborative efforts and systemic changes. The Society's strategic priorities are evident in its emphasis on projects with clear and measurable outcomes and a collaborative approach. The theory of change appears to be that by strategically funding projects that address systemic issues in health and wellness through collaborative efforts, the Women's Philanthropy Society can create a lasting positive impact on the quality of life in the community.

The Innovate Alabama Supplemental Grant Program is designed to award funds to for-profit, Alabama-based companies that have received Federal Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) or Federal Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR) Phase I or Phase II awards. The program's mission aligns with fostering technological innovation, commercialization, and overall economic development within Alabama by supporting small businesses engaged in research and technology development. This initiative aims to bridge critical funding gaps, encourage the growth of high-quality companies, and create high-wage jobs across the state. The target beneficiaries are Alabama-based for-profit companies that have secured federal SBIR/STTR Phase I or Phase II awards. The primary impact goals include increasing the number and types of federal SBIR/STTR applications from Alabama, helping companies bridge the funding gap between Phase I and Phase II payments, and promoting the establishment and growth of businesses committed to Alabama's economic development, entrepreneurship, and innovation. The program prioritizes several key areas. It focuses on increasing commercial success for Alabama SBIR/STTR projects and establishing high-wage jobs in both moderately and highly skilled occupations. Funding is structured with caps: for Phase I awards, Innovate Alabama may grant up to 50% of the federal award or $100,000, whichever is less. For Phase II awards, the supplemental grant can be up to 50% of the federal award or $250,000, whichever is less. Expected outcomes and measurable results include a higher volume of SBIR/STTR applications from Alabama, a stronger pipeline of innovative companies transitioning from Phase I to Phase II, and a measurable increase in commercialized technologies and job creation within the state. The grant funds can be used for highly skilled new hires, business plan development, product testing, market research, intellectual property protection, and technical work, all contributing to the growth and sustainability of these businesses. Eligibility requirements dictate that applicants must meet all federal SBIR/STTR program requirements at the time of application. Additionally, within 12 months of receiving the grant, the applicant must have its primary place of business in Alabama, the majority of its top executives must reside in Alabama, and at least a majority of its employees must live in Alabama. Participation in the E-Verify program is also mandatory. The program is open to applicants whose federal Phase I or Phase II funding was active on or after July 1, 2023. This framework reflects Innovate Alabama's strategic priority of nurturing a robust innovation ecosystem and supporting a theory of change where targeted supplemental funding accelerates the growth and commercialization potential of promising Alabama-based businesses, leading to broader economic benefits.

The Rural Advancement Foundation International (RAFI) is offering its 2024 Infrastructure Grant Program, which aligns with its mission to support the viability and sustainability of historically underserved farmers and ranchers. This program aims to foster projects that enhance farm viability, create new markets for local agricultural products and services, develop innovative uses for existing farm infrastructure, add value to farm products through processing, packaging, or marketing, and optimize the use of on-farm and natural resources. Additionally, the grant supports cultural and heritage projects dedicated to preserving and continuing specific agrarian traditions, reflecting RAFI's broader commitment to a resilient and equitable food system. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are historically underserved farmers and ranchers, as defined by NRCS, who are in at least their fourth full growing season and have operated their current farm for at least two years. The program specifically targets "livelihood" farmers and ranchers who depend on agriculture for their financial support or are pursuing a long-term career in farming. Eligibility extends to individual farmer owners/co-owners or farm cooperatives, provided at least 50% of the cooperative members meet the individual eligibility criteria. The grants range from $1,000 to $10,000 and are available to farms located in specific states: AL, AR, DC, FL, GA, KY, LA, MD, MS, NC, SC, TN, or VA. Funding priorities are given to proposals demonstrating a high expected impact on farm viability and sustainability, strong project feasibility, and comprehensive planning, including a clear plan, detailed budget, timeline, and all necessary supporting documentation. RAFI also prioritizes farmers who derive a significant portion of their household income from farm operations, individuals with financial need, or those located in economically disadvantaged areas. Projects that tangibly benefit the surrounding community and farms utilizing agroecological and/or ancestral farming practices are also highly favored, reflecting RAFI's strategic priorities for holistic agricultural development and community engagement. The expected outcomes of the Infrastructure Grant Program include increased farm viability and sustainability for historically underserved farmers, the establishment of new and diversified markets for local products, and the preservation of valuable agricultural traditions. Through these grants, RAFI aims to support projects that lead to concrete improvements in farm infrastructure, expanded income streams for farmers, and a stronger connection between agricultural practices and community well-being. By focusing on these outcomes, RAFI reinforces its theory of change, which posits that targeted financial support and capacity building for underserved farmers will lead to a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable agricultural landscape.

The Share Your Story Video Challenge is an award program established by the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville. This program aims to support arts and culture initiatives within the community by providing unrestricted grants to qualified organizations. The foundation's mission, though not explicitly detailed, aligns with supporting charitable, scientific, literary, or educational purposes as described in IRS code 501(c)(3) public charities, schools, religious institutions, or government agencies within the Greater Huntsville area. This grant directly contributes to the foundation's strategic priorities by fostering community engagement and providing financial assistance to organizations that may have limited access to funding for their arts and culture programs. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are organizations supporting arts and culture programs, specifically those serving low-income members of the Greater Huntsville area. The program focuses on organizations located in Jackson, Limestone, Madison, Marshall, and Morgan Counties in Alabama. The impact goal is to empower these organizations to share their stories and highlight the work they are doing, particularly in serving low-income communities. The grant encourages a direct spotlight on community impact and the positive change these programs bring, aligning with a theory of change that believes in the power of storytelling to raise awareness, garner support, and ultimately, strengthen community programs. The grant prioritizes organizations that can effectively demonstrate their service to low-income community members through a compelling 60-second video. Key focuses include adherence to video guidelines such as avoiding copyrighted materials, making specific references to low-income service, and including an impact story. The program also offers recommendations for creating an effective video, such as shooting on location, using a microphone, and being enthusiastic, all designed to ensure a high-quality submission that clearly communicates the organization's purpose and impact. Expected outcomes for the Share Your Story Video Challenge include increased visibility for arts and culture programs serving low-income communities, enhanced storytelling capabilities of participating organizations, and the distribution of $1,000 unrestricted grants to support their efforts. Measurable results would include the number of organizations participating, the quality and reach of the submitted videos, and the direct impact reported by the grant recipients. While specific long-term impact metrics are not detailed, the program's emphasis on demonstrating service and impact stories suggests an underlying goal of fostering sustainable community development and cultural enrichment.

The MartinConnects Grant Program is an initiative by MartinFed that aims to make a positive difference in the communities where the company operates. This program supports organizations dedicated to charitable, scientific, literary, or educational purposes, aligning with MartinFed's broader mission of community engagement. The grants are specifically directed towards 501(c)3 public charities, including schools, religious institutions, and government agencies, ensuring that funds reach legitimate and impactful organizations. The program's commitment to community betterment reflects a strategic priority of MartinFed to foster positive social impact. The program targets specific beneficiaries through its focus areas, which include homelessness, STEM education, veterans' support, and initiatives for women and children. By concentrating on these critical areas, MartinConnects seeks to address pressing societal needs and improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations. The impact goals are implicitly tied to the success of programs within these focus areas, aiming to provide support, resources, and opportunities to those who need them most. For example, supporting STEM initiatives can lead to improved educational outcomes and future career opportunities, while aiding veterans and homeless individuals contributes to their well-being and reintegration into society. Key priorities for grant recipients include complementing the MartinFed mission and demonstrating a recognized reputation for integrity in program implementation, financial management, and project effectiveness. Organizations must also ensure their work aligns with one of the MartinConnects focus areas. This rigorous selection process ensures that funding is directed towards highly effective and trustworthy organizations that can maximize the impact of the grants. The funding information indicates that grants range from $2,000 to $8,000, with eligible expenses covering program costs for new and existing programs, as well as reasonable staff and volunteer time. While specific expected outcomes and measurable results are not explicitly detailed as quantifiable metrics, the program's structure implies a theory of change focused on supporting established, effective programs that align with MartinFed's values. The geographic focus areas—including Huntsville/Madison County, AL; Little Rock/Pulaski County, AR; Central Maryland/Washington, DC; Starkville, MS; Oak Ridge & Knoxville, TN; and Houston/Harris County, TX—indicate a strategic approach to local community investment. The emphasis on integrity, mission alignment, and specific focus areas suggests that MartinFed's strategic priority is to empower organizations that have a proven track record of making a tangible difference within these targeted communities and fields.

This initiative provides funding and support to nonprofit organizations, local governments, and Tribal governments in coal-impacted communities to develop and scale innovative economic projects that create job opportunities and foster local economic transformation.

This grant provides funding for nonprofit organizations to collaborate on improving oral health care access for seniors in underserved communities across select Southern states.

The Huntsville Utilities Innovation Dividend Fund, created from ancillary revenues, not customer rate payer money, aims to positively impact its service area by offering grants to qualified, nonprofit organizations that contribute to the public good. Huntsville Utilities, while a not-for-profit municipal utility providing essential services, also seeks to enhance the quality of life and economic health within the communities it serves. This fund aligns with their broader mission to build community and improve daily life for residents. The program targets nonprofit organizations, schools, religious institutions, and government agencies located in the Huntsville/Madison County area that serve a public purpose. The grants are intended to support charitable, scientific, literary, or educational initiatives. The impact goals are focused on addressing critical community needs and fostering overall well-being and economic health within Huntsville and Madison County. The grant program prioritizes initiatives that align with Huntsville Utilities’ values, which include doing what's right, building community, and continuous improvement. Key focus areas for funding include Disaster Relief (preparation for or mitigation of disaster situations), Education (STEM or other educational enhancements), and Housing, Health, and Wellness (critical needs and physical and mental health). Projects considered for funding should be unique, have clear and measurable outcomes, strategically address one of the stated focus areas, and demonstrate a commitment to diversity. The fund supports both new and existing programs, covering eligible expenses such as program costs, reasonable staff and volunteer time and training, capital expenses, and professional development. This strategic approach ensures that the grants lead to tangible and beneficial results within the community, reflecting the fund's theory of change which posits that investing in these key areas will lead to a stronger, healthier, and more resilient Huntsville/Madison County.

The National Academy of Sciences Gulf Research Program is investing $50 million in the Gulf Futures Challenge to fund projects addressing critical challenges in the Gulf region. The Challenge aims to discover and promote innovative and transformative solutions by leveraging the talent and knowledge of the Gulf's people. The competition focuses on three main areas: energy transition, environmental change along the coast, and healthy and resilient communities. Up to ten finalists will receive up to $1 million in project development support, with two finalists awarded $20 million each to implement their solutions. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, state, local, and tribal governments, and academic institutions from Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, or Texas, with projects located within 100 miles of the Gulf coastline. The registration deadline is August 20, 2024, and the application deadline is September 20, 2024.

This funding opportunity supports educational projects that enhance community resilience and environmental literacy in the Gulf States by engaging learners of all ages in addressing local environmental challenges.

This program provides financial support to rural nonprofit and governmental organizations in select Southern states for presenting touring artists across various disciplines, including film, performing arts, and visual arts.