New York Private Grants

The Healthy Soils Program (HSP) Block Grant Pilot Program, facilitated by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) through the Solano County Farm Bureau, is designed to incentivize the implementation of conservation management practices across California. This program aligns with a broader mission to improve soil health, sequester carbon, and reduce atmospheric greenhouse gases (GHGs) by providing financial support to growers and ranchers. The initiative is a component of the California Climate Investments (CCI), which has allocated $50 million towards these environmental objectives. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are California farmers, ranchers, agricultural business entities, and California Native Americans. Nonprofit organizations operating agricultural operations are also eligible, provided grant recipients are at least 18 years old. The program specifically targets producers in Alameda, Contra Costa, Sacramento, Solano, and Yolo Counties, with a priority given to those qualifying as socially disadvantaged. The overarching impact goals are to foster statewide adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, leading to enhanced soil health, significant carbon sequestration, and a measurable reduction in atmospheric GHG emissions. The program's priorities and focuses revolve around implementing specific conservation management practices. These include mulching (compost), cover crops, reduced tillage, riparian, herbaceous, and woody plantings, windbreaks, filter strips, and whole orchard recycling. Projects must be located on agricultural operations within California, encompassing row crops, vineyards, field and tree crops, commercial nurseries, nursery stock production, greenhouse operations producing food crops or flowers, and grazing lands. Excluded activities include cannabis cultivation, the use of potted plants or non-soil growth media, and research and product development. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an increase in the number of agricultural operations implementing soil health-improving practices, a quantifiable reduction in GHG emissions, and a documented increase in carbon sequestration across the state. The grant term is three years, with a maximum award of $100,000 per agricultural operation. This grant structure aims to provide substantial, sustained support to enable the successful adoption and maintenance of these beneficial practices, contributing directly to California's climate goals and fostering more resilient agricultural systems.

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.

The Cultivator of Change program, sponsored by the Western New York Foundation, is designed to recognize and support individuals demonstrating exceptional leadership within the food system. This initiative aligns with the foundation's broader mission to strengthen communities by fostering local and regional food systems. The program directly supports the foundation's strategic priorities by investing in vital leaders who are critical to the well-being of the communities in Western New York. The program targets leaders who act as change agents among underserved populations, operate with empathy and compassion, seek community-driven solutions to pressing food system issues, and are willing to share their experiences and knowledge. The primary impact goal is to empower these leaders, enabling them to continue and expand their efforts in building stronger, more equitable food systems. The program focuses on individuals who prioritize equity and demonstrate the potential for realizing scale in their work, contributing to the foundation's theory of change by supporting bottom-up innovation and community resilience. Key priorities for this grant include identifying leaders who actively work to address food system challenges within Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, and Wyoming counties in New York. The program emphasizes leaders who are committed to equitable practices and show a strong ability to engage communities in developing sustainable food solutions. This focus ensures that the grants directly address critical needs within the specific geographic areas served by the Western New York Foundation. Selected food system leaders will receive a $2,500 grant to aid their ongoing work. The expected outcomes include enhanced capacity for individual leaders to continue their impactful work, increased innovation in community-driven food system solutions, and ultimately, stronger, more equitable local and regional food systems. Measurable results will include the selection of two leaders from each of the seven counties twice a year, demonstrating the consistent identification and support of these vital community assets.

This fund provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that enhance the quality of life for residents in Clarence, New York, through educational, charitable, recreational, and cultural initiatives.

The Performing Arts Residency Cohort (PARC) program, supported by the Howard Gilman Foundation and Staten Island Arts, is in its second year (2024-2025) and focuses on nurturing the creative practice of performing artists in Staten Island. The program is not centered on project creation or providing space but rather emphasizes peer mentorship and professional development for individual artists in dance, theater, and music, at any career stage. The Howard Gilman Foundation's mission, though not explicitly stated in the provided text, can be inferred to align with supporting artistic development and fostering vibrant arts communities, which PARC directly addresses by investing in individual artists' growth. The target beneficiaries of the PARC program are individual performing artists aged 18 and over, who are not full-time students and reside in Staten Island. The program specifically welcomes artists working in music, dance, and theater. The overarching impact goal is to strengthen the creative practice of these artists and to break down the siloed community structure across different forms of expression in Staten Island. By fostering peer mentorship and professional development, the program aims to provide much-needed support for artists' creative journeys. The program's priorities and focuses include nurturing individual artists' creative practices through a 6-month residency cohort, promoting peer mentorship, and offering professional development opportunities. A key focus is on process over product, meaning the program values the artistic journey and development of skills more than the creation of specific outcomes or products. Monthly cohort meetings from September 2024 to February 2025 are a mandatory component, serving as a space for artists to share their creative practice, discuss challenges, and identify needs. Expected outcomes and measurable results include providing financial support of $6,000 to each of the 10 awarded artists. More importantly, the program anticipates an enhancement in the creative practices of participating artists, a stronger sense of community and support among performing artists in Staten Island, and increased professional development among the cohort. While specific metrics beyond financial awards and participation are not detailed, the emphasis on peer mentorship and shared experience suggests an aim for qualitative improvements in artistic growth and community cohesion. While the foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change are not explicitly detailed for the Howard Gilman Foundation, their support for PARC suggests a belief that investing in individual artists' development, fostering community, and providing professional growth opportunities will lead to a more vibrant and sustainable arts ecosystem. The theory of change appears to be that by nurturing artists' practices without the pressure of project creation, and by encouraging peer-to-peer learning, artists will be better equipped to sustain their careers and contribute meaningfully to the cultural landscape of Staten Island. In summary, the PARC program, through the generous support of the Howard Gilman Foundation and Staten Island Arts, is a vital initiative designed to empower performing artists in Staten Island. It focuses on holistic creative development, community building, and professional growth, ultimately aiming to enrich the artistic landscape by supporting the very individuals who animate it.

The Rock Charitable Fund, managed by the Northern New York Community Foundation, is currently accepting applications from eligible charitable organizations, houses of worship, cemeteries, and governmental entities that serve St. Lawrence County residents. This grant program is designed to align with the foundation's mission by supporting vital community needs within the county. The funding aims to address specific charitable purposes that contribute to the well-being and historical preservation of the area. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program include veterans of the United States military residing in St. Lawrence County, who will receive support for their medical or recreational needs. Additionally, the program benefits churches, houses of worship, and cemeteries in St. Lawrence County by providing funding for their maintenance and preservation. A third key beneficiary group includes entities responsible for the preservation and maintenance of places of legitimate historical significance within the county. The impact goals are to enhance the quality of life for veterans, ensure the longevity of religious and historical sites, and foster community pride and heritage. The program prioritizes initiatives that directly support veterans, particularly through qualified veteran organizations or any nonprofit with programs or initiatives directly supporting veterans, rather than direct aid to individuals. It also focuses on the crucial maintenance and preservation of religious institutions and historical landmarks. The fund's strategic priorities are clearly laid out in its charitable purposes, emphasizing direct community benefit in these three key areas. The theory of change suggests that by providing targeted financial support, the foundation can directly contribute to the welfare of veterans and the preservation of essential community assets, leading to a more resilient and historically conscious St. Lawrence County. Expected outcomes include improved medical and recreational access for veterans, leading to better well-being. For religious and historical sites, the anticipated outcome is the successful upkeep and preservation of these important community structures, preventing decay and maintaining their cultural and spiritual value. Measurable results could include the number of veterans served, the scope of medical or recreational services provided, and the specific maintenance or restoration projects completed for churches, houses of worship, cemeteries, and historical sites. At least $100,000 in grant funding is available, with individual grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, and a grant duration of up to three years, providing a substantial period for impactful projects. Organizations that have previously received funding must wait three years before reapplying, ensuring equitable access to funding across the community.

This funding opportunity supports community-based arts projects and the creation of original work by local artists in Westchester and Rockland Counties, focusing on inclusivity and access for underrepresented communities.

The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Community Services (OCS) is soliciting applications to award approximately $1.5 million in Community Economic Development (CED) discretionary funds through the CED Planning Grants. This funding opportunity is specifically aimed at Community Development Corporations (CDCs) to stimulate new CED project development by providing financial assistance for administrative capacity building. The overarching goal aligns with OCS's mission to reduce poverty by connecting CDCs with CED resources for social and revenue reinvestment, ultimately helping to spark economic growth in local communities. The primary objective of the CED Planning Grants is to stimulate new projects in underserved and under-resourced communities. The funding is centered on equity, focusing resources in persistent high-poverty areas with struggling economies that have previously been unable to put forth a viable CED project. The target beneficiaries are CDCs operating in these high-poverty areas, targeting both urban and rural communities, with the impact goal of strengthening their administrative capacity to successfully develop and execute CED projects. OCS has outlined specific priority areas for this funding opportunity. These priorities include aligning with Executive Order 14008: Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad and the Justice40 Initiative, underscoring support for energy communities. The OCS also prioritizes increased equity in the geographic distribution of CED funds, consistent with the CED statute. Furthermore, a key focus is breaking down service silos and leveraging existing partnerships across OCS programs to reduce poverty through a wraparound services model for communities with low incomes. The expected outcomes and measurable results revolve around the success of CDCs in using the administrative capacity building funds to develop viable CED projects. The goal is that these awards will serve as a crucial step, connecting CDCs with the necessary CED resources for future social and revenue reinvestment. This theory of change suggests that by first strengthening the administrative foundations of CDCs in high-need areas, OCS can enable these organizations to successfully secure and utilize capital for subsequent CED projects, thereby fostering sustainable economic growth and reducing poverty in historically struggling economies.

This grant provides funding to charitable organizations in Wayne County, New York, to support projects that improve community life, particularly in Macedon and the Palmyra-Macedon School District, with an emphasis on initiatives that demonstrate matching financial support and sustainability.

The van Ameringen Foundation focuses on improving mental health services, particularly for those with limited financial means, within New York City and Philadelphia, and through national advocacy. Its mission is to increase accessibility to mental health services, offer preventive and early-intervention strategies, and advocate for systemic change. The foundation offers both general support and project-specific grants, aligning its funding directly with its core mission of fostering a more equitable and effective mental healthcare system for underserved populations. The primary beneficiaries of these grants are individuals and communities confronting significant mental illness, particularly those with limited financial means and opportunities. This includes people needing direct services like case management, counseling, psychotherapy, and psychiatric care, as well as those who benefit from systemic changes in law, public policy, and public perception. The impact goals are to enhance the mental health safety net, improve access to services, and create lasting, positive changes in mental healthcare delivery and perceptions. The foundation's priorities and focuses are clearly delineated into two main categories: Direct Service Grants and Non-Direct Service Grants. Direct Service Grants support programs that provide immediate and tangible assistance to individuals, such as housing, jobs, and various forms of mental health treatment. Non-Direct Service Grants encompass advocacy efforts to change policies, media/dissemination projects to share best practices and research, and training initiatives for mental health providers, advocates, and community members. The foundation explicitly does not fund programs for intellectual or physical disabilities, direct grants to individuals, endowment campaigns, capital projects, annual fundraising drives, or international activities. Expected outcomes include increased accessibility of mental health services, successful implementation of preventive and early-intervention strategies, and significant systemic changes with local or national impact. Measurable results could include the number of individuals served, improvements in patient outcomes, policy changes enacted, increased public awareness, and the number of mental health professionals trained. The foundation encourages innovative and practical proposals that demonstrate a clear path to achieving these outcomes. The foundation's strategic priorities are centered on fostering innovation and practical solutions within the mental health sector. Its theory of change posits that by investing in direct services, advocating for policy reforms, disseminating knowledge, and building capacity through training, it can effectively address disparities in mental healthcare access and quality. This multi-pronged approach aims to create both immediate relief for individuals and long-term structural improvements in the mental health landscape, primarily within its specified geographic areas and at a national advocacy level.

This grant provides funding for projects in St. Lawrence County that focus on preserving historical sites, supporting places of worship, and aiding military veterans.

The Mertz Gilmore Dance Research Grants, administered by Staten Island Arts, offer crucial support to dance artists, collectives, and nonprofits at various career stages. This grant program is specifically designed to foster the research and development of new dance works. While the overall mission of Staten Island Arts is not explicitly detailed, this grant aligns with a broader goal of supporting artistic creation and addressing specific challenges within the local arts community, particularly the lack of venues for dance presentations in Staten Island. The grants aim to alleviate these significant challenges by focusing on the foundational stages of creative development, thereby contributing to the vitality of the local dance scene. The primary target beneficiaries of these grants are individual dancers, choreographers, dance collectives, and dance nonprofits who are residents of Staten Island and are at least 18 years old, and not full-time students. The impact goals are centered on enabling the creation of new dance work. By providing funding for the research and development phase, the program seeks to empower artists to explore innovative ideas and bring new projects to fruition, ultimately enriching the cultural landscape of Staten Island. The program's priorities and focuses are clear: to support the development of new dance works that are either undeveloped or in their early stages. Crucially, the grants explicitly exclude funding for work that has already been presented. This emphasis ensures that the funds are directed towards novel creative endeavors. The grants are designed to alleviate challenges related to the lack of presentation venues by focusing on development, rather than presentation costs. Ineligible activities include capital improvements, fundraising events, scholarships, juror fees, prizes, lobbying expenses, and entertainment, reinforcing the program's dedication to direct artistic creation. The expected outcomes include the successful research and development of new dance works by Staten Island-based dance artists and organizations. While specific measurable results are not detailed, the program implicitly aims for an increase in the quantity and quality of new dance pieces being created in the borough. Awards are set at $7,500 per artist, indicating a significant investment in individual creative processes. The underlying strategic priority is to strengthen the dance community in Staten Island by nurturing artistic talent and supporting the creation of original work from its nascent stages. The theory of change seems to be that by providing dedicated funding for early-stage development, artists will be better equipped to overcome resource limitations and contribute new, innovative dance to the community.

The Clifton-Fine Community Fund is offering grants to enhance the quality of life for both year-round and seasonal residents within the Clifton-Fine region. This region encompasses the communities of Clifton, Cranberry Lake, Fine, Newton Falls, Oswegatchie, Star Lake, and Wanakena. The fund aims to support initiatives that will have a positive impact on the community, economy, and tourism in these areas. The overall mission is aligned with fostering a vibrant and thriving environment for all residents. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are the residents of the Clifton-Fine region, including both permanent and seasonal inhabitants. The impact goals are broad, focusing on improving the overall quality of life. This can manifest in various ways, from economic development and job creation to cultural enrichment and environmental conservation. The fund is particularly interested in proposals that demonstrate innovative solutions to regional challenges and show strong community support. Proposals will be evaluated based on several key priorities and focuses. These include the potential impact on the community, economy, and tourism, the ability to leverage and secure additional funding, and the creativity and innovation of the proposed solutions to regional challenges. Additionally, the organization's capacity to effectively implement and manage the requested funds, along with demonstrated overall community support, are crucial considerations. Grants for operating support are generally not considered, though exceptions may be made for unique events or circumstances. Expected outcomes and measurable results are vital for this grant. Successful projects are anticipated to contribute to a better quality of life for residents, foster economic growth, and boost tourism within the Clifton-Fine region. While specific measurable results will depend on the nature of each project, applicants should clearly articulate how their initiatives will lead to tangible improvements. The available funding for this grant application is up to a total of $6,000, and grant recipients will have up to one year from the date of award to complete their projects. This timeframe allows for the completion of meaningful initiatives that can demonstrate clear progress and impact.

The Scherman Foundation's Core Fund Arts Program in New York City supports a diverse range of professional performing arts organizations and a limited number of visual arts groups. The program prioritizes excellence and innovation, providing general operating support to empower artistic leaders with flexible funding. It aims to enrich the city's spirit, create sustainable communities, impact social wellbeing and cohesion, and serve as an economic engine while attracting emerging and established artists and art lovers from around the world. The program supports small groups dedicated to the work of a single artist, larger producing entities, museums, and organizations that sustain the creative life.

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

The Rock Charitable Fund, administered by the Northern New York Community Foundation, is currently accepting applications for grants ranging from $100,000 to $500,000. This grant program aligns with the foundation's mission to support the well-being and historical preservation within St. Lawrence County, New York. The fund emphasizes projects that address existing structures and elements, as well as providing technical assistance and planning support, indicating a strategic priority on sustainable development and preservation rather than new construction or significant alterations to historic properties. The primary beneficiaries of the Rock Charitable Fund include 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, churches, houses of worship, cemeteries, and government entities. The fund targets projects that contribute to the maintenance and preservation of these institutions and places of historical significance within St. Lawrence County. Additionally, the fund aims to benefit and/or assist Veterans of the United States Military residing in St. Lawrence County by addressing their medical and recreational needs through qualified organizations. The impact goals are centered on enhancing community resources, preserving local heritage, and improving the quality of life for Veterans. The program's priorities and focus areas are clearly defined. For historical and religious properties, there's a strong preference for exterior projects that are publicly visible and accessible, though interior improvements may be considered. Peripheral or incidental projects are not desired. For cemeteries, support covers the property as a whole or aesthetically significant portions, explicitly excluding individual burial plots or monuments without special justification. For Veterans, grants are awarded to qualified organizations serving them, not directly to individuals, and can support programs for medical and recreational needs. This structured approach highlights a theory of change that leverages established organizations to create broader community benefit and long-term impact. Expected outcomes include the successful preservation and maintenance of historically significant sites and religious institutions, ensuring their continued benefit to the public. For Veterans, the anticipated result is improved access to medical and recreational support, contributing to their overall well-being. Measurable results could include the number of structures preserved, the extent of public access improved, and the number of Veterans served by supported programs. The foundation's strategic priorities are evident in its commitment to tangible, community-focused projects that have a lasting positive effect on St. Lawrence County's heritage and its Veteran population.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for nonprofit organizations and churches in Lewis County, New York, to preserve and restore historically significant buildings while maintaining their original character.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in northern Chautauqua to support projects that enhance community well-being in areas such as arts, health, and neighborhood revitalization.

Con Edison seeks proposals for social justice grants that empower disadvantaged and historically marginalized communities to address climate resiliency in New York City and Westchester. The program supports actionable initiatives created with and for communities most impacted by extreme heat, severe weather, and flooding. Priority is given to organizations and partnerships with strong histories of community organizing around justice issues, leadership that reflects community demographics, deep engagement with residents, and clear policy and advocacy goals. Programs may include education on environmental burdens, skills based trainings on preparedness and advocacy, community convenings to plan for climate impacts, and projects that elevate community perspectives for decision makers. Projects must serve beneficiaries within the service territory and in designated disadvantaged communities. Total seed funding of up to 1,000,000 dollars will support programs beginning in July 2024. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) organizations; in collaborative projects a designated 501(c)(3) must serve as fiscal agent. Programs must be located within priority communities and demonstrate meaningful community impact. Applications are due May 3, 2024. Grant duration is not stated. Additional information is available from Con Edison.