Pennsylvania Education Grants

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 Centre Foundation's Field-of-Interest grant program, open to qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofits and governmental units in Centre County, Pennsylvania, offers $162,914 in funding for projects focusing on education, health, social services, arts, and youth development, to be used within a year starting from December 2024.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in nine Pennsylvania counties that offer programs and services for young children affected by abuse, focusing on creating safe and joyful environments.

The Memorial Health Fund, established by the York County Community Foundation (YCCF), aims to revolutionize how the community addresses pressing health issues. Its core mission is to fund programs that enhance the complete physical, mental, and social well-being of residents within York and its surrounding communities in Pennsylvania. This competitive grant program is designed to be flexible, allowing it to adapt to diverse community needs while aligning with the foundation's overarching goal of fostering a healthier, more vibrant region. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and public school districts that directly serve York County. The fund explicitly states that individuals do not qualify as applicants. Eligible nonprofits must possess a 501(c)(3) public charity status for at least one year and be current on all active interim or post-grant reports. The program's impact goals are centered on improving overall community health, providing resources for health restoration and maintenance, and delivering high-quality healthcare services to the greater York area. The Memorial Health Fund prioritizes grant applications that address a range of health-related initiatives. These include promoting general health and wellness, advancing health education, engaging in fundraising for health-related activities, and making grants to other nonprofits to carry out these activities. The fund also clearly outlines what it does NOT support, such as endowments, capital campaigns, budget shortfalls, normal operations, debt retirement, sectarian religious programs, discriminatory practices, direct financial assistance to individuals, or reimbursements for prior purchases. Expected outcomes include a measurable improvement in community health indicators and enhanced access to healthcare services for York County residents. The fund emphasizes the importance of an applicant having both a board-approved Anti-Discrimination Policy and a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy, reflecting the foundation's strategic priority to promote equitable health outcomes across all segments of the community. While specific measurable results are not detailed, the focus on "improving overall community health" and "bringing high-quality health care services" suggests a theory of change rooted in direct intervention and support for organizations capable of implementing impactful health programs. The YCCF's strategic priorities, as evidenced by this fund, are to support initiatives that are responsive to community needs and promote comprehensive well-being. By funding programs that address a broad spectrum of health issues—from mental health to access to care—the foundation aims to create a sustained, positive impact on the health landscape of York County. The emphasis on organizational eligibility and policy requirements also underscores a commitment to effective, ethical, and inclusive grantmaking.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Philadelphia to deliver free tax preparation and financial literacy services to low-to-moderate income households, helping them build wealth and access essential financial resources.

The Small Business Boost Grant, announced by The Intentional Development Group and funded by the City of Youngstown, is designed to empower local entrepreneurs and strengthen the economic landscape of Youngstown. This program aims to boost the economic impact of small businesses within the city by providing funds for projects that address climate change mitigation and adaptation within the agricultural sector. The foundation's mission, as inferred from the program's focus, aligns with fostering economic resilience and sustainability through targeted community investment and environmental stewardship. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are New York State Soil and Water Conservation Districts (Districts), who will submit proposals on behalf of multiple projects and/or farm operations. The program's impact goals are to mitigate the impact of agriculture on climate change, enhance on-farm adaptation and resiliency to projected climate conditions, and ultimately boost the economic impact of small businesses. The program directly supports the agricultural sector, indirectly benefiting the broader community through environmental improvements and economic stability. The grant prioritizes several key areas, categorized into distinct tracks. These include Livestock Management (Alternative Waste Management and Precision Feed Management), Cover and Flare Projects, Adaptation and Resiliency, Healthy Soils NY (Systems and BMPs that support soil health and agroforestry), Soil Health Systems, and Agricultural Forest Management (carbon sequestration). These specific focuses highlight a comprehensive approach to sustainable agricultural practices and climate change response. With a total available funding of $28,750,000, the grant expects measurable outcomes across these tracks. For instance, Track 1A (Livestock Management) has $4,500,000 in State Funds, Track 1B (Cover and Flare Projects) has $7,000,000 in Federal Funds, Track 2 (Adaptation & Resiliency) has $5,000,000 in State Funds, Track 3A (Healthy Soils NY) has $4,500,000 in State Funds, Track 3B (Soil Health Systems) has $7,000,000 in Federal Funds, and Track 4 (Agricultural Forestry Management) has $750,000 in State Funds. These allocations indicate the expected scale and scope of the projects, with success measured by the implementation of sustainable practices and the resulting environmental and economic benefits. The foundation's strategic priorities are evident in the grant's emphasis on climate change mitigation and adaptation within agriculture, coupled with economic development. The theory of change appears to be that by funding conservation districts to implement specific, environmentally beneficial agricultural practices, the program will not only reduce the ecological footprint of farming but also enhance the long-term viability and economic impact of small agricultural businesses in the region, thereby contributing to the overall economic well-being of the City of Youngstown.

The Statewide Creative Catalyst Grants are designed to support new initiatives that enhance the cultural, educational, or economic vitality of Pennsylvania's communities through the arts. Eligible projects should align with the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts' goals of strengthening communities through the arts, connecting Pennsylvanians to lifelong learning through the arts, and promoting public awareness and appreciation of the arts. Applications will be assessed based on their statewide impact, benefit to Pennsylvania's creative sector, and incorporation of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The City of York's Education, Empowerment & Enhancement (3E) Grant Program is supported by ARPA funds and aims to increase the operating capacity of small businesses. This program is rooted in the city's broader ARPA grant initiatives, which are designed to benefit City of York residents and the community. The alignment with the city's mission is evident in its focus on supporting local businesses, particularly those in Qualified Census Tract (QCT) areas, which the U.S. Treasury recognizes as disproportionately impacted. This strategic focus ensures that grant funds are directed towards areas and populations most in need, contributing to the overall economic resilience and social well-being of the city. The primary target beneficiaries of the 3E Grant Program are small business owners in the City of York who are minorities, women, or people with disabilities. To be eligible, businesses must also earn $500,000 or less in annual gross revenues, be registered, licensed, and in good standing on all City taxes and obligations, and be physically located within a QCT in the City of York. Additionally, no owners should have been convicted of financial crimes within the past three years. The program's impact goals are centered on fostering business growth and stability within these underserved communities by providing resources for education, professional development, and operational enhancements. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly outlined by the "3E's": Education, Empowerment, and Enhancement. Education encompasses classes, certificates, and training for business owners and/or their employees. Empowerment focuses on retreats, workshops, and coaching to build professional development. Enhancement involves improvements to business operations through new software, products, or equipment. These areas represent the core strategies through which the grant intends to address the operational capacity and growth challenges faced by eligible small businesses. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in the operating capacity of participating small businesses. This can manifest as improved skills through education, enhanced leadership and strategic thinking through empowerment, and increased efficiency or service offerings through operational enhancements. Eligible costs must occur within a year of receiving grant funds, providing a clear timeframe for impact. The program's theory of change posits that by investing in these key areas, the City of York can create a more equitable and robust local economy, particularly for businesses in historically disadvantaged areas, leading to sustained growth and community benefit.

The United Way Grant Program, spearheaded by the United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike Counties, aims to improve the quality of life for residents in Lackawanna, Wayne, and surrounding communities. The program is deeply aligned with the foundation's broader mission to serve as a catalyst for community problem-solving and to conduct efficient fundraising efforts to address compelling social problems. Specifically, it focuses on promoting quality education leading to graduation, stable employment, and sufficient income, while also advocating for good physical and mental health and a strong safety net during crises. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are non-profit, 501(c)(3) health and human service organizations that provide in-person, direct services within Wayne County. These organizations, in turn, serve the residents of Wayne and Pike Counties by supporting services specifically designed for them. The overarching impact goals are centered on achieving financial stability for families, ensuring access to quality education, fostering overall well-being, and building community resilience. The program's priorities and focus areas are broad, encompassing existing programs, new initiatives, program expansion, and even capital items, as long as they align with the United Way's mission. The emphasis is on addressing critical social challenges and improving outcomes in areas such as education, income stability, and health. The funds are a direct result of campaigns supported by individuals, businesses, and foundations dedicated to aiding Wayne and/or Pike County residents. Expected outcomes include an improvement in educational attainment, increased rates of stable employment and sufficient income for families, enhanced physical and mental health outcomes, and the establishment of robust safety nets for communities in times of crisis. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the general improvements in quality of life, the program's structure implies that the success will be evaluated through the direct services provided by the funded organizations and their impact on the target populations. The strategic priorities revolve around community problem-solving and effective resource allocation, operating under a theory of change that posits that by investing in key areas like education, health, and financial stability, the overall well-being and resilience of the community will be significantly improved. The grant sizes, ranging from $500 to $4,000 for individual grants to organizations, reflect a commitment to supporting a variety of initiatives that contribute to these comprehensive goals.

The Philadelphia City Fund is offering a one-year grant of $15,000 to Philadelphia-based organizations working towards long-term environmental justice and community resilience, with activities including community organizing, education, youth leadership, and project implementation, to be used within 12 months of being awarded.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to local workforce development boards and partner organizations in Pennsylvania to enhance collaboration among businesses and address workforce needs within priority industry sectors.

This grant provides financial support to non-profit organizations in the Delaware Valley that offer direct services to individuals affected by HIV/AIDS.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to organizations in Philadelphia focused on preventing homelessness for families with children aged 0 to 8 by offering short-term housing stabilization and long-term housing stability programs.

The Emerging Philanthropist Program (EPP) by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities aims to engage Central Pennsylvania's emerging business and community leaders in philanthropic endeavors within Harrisburg. This program aligns with the foundation's mission by fostering a new generation of philanthropists, providing resources and educational opportunities to developing leaders who are actively engaged in giving back to their community. The target beneficiaries are Harrisburg's developing leaders and the community organizations they support. The impact goal is to strengthen the philanthropic ecosystem in Harrisburg by empowering these emerging leaders to contribute meaningfully. EPP focuses on providing a $5,000 grant to a chosen organization, emphasizing that it will not fund 100% of any project, thus encouraging diverse funding sources and collaborative efforts. Priorities for funding include projects that can take place between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025, and demonstrate a clear benefit to the Harrisburg community. The program explicitly outlines what cannot be funded, such as advertising, capital campaigns, direct lobbying, individuals, national/statewide umbrella organizations without local presence, new staff positions without sustainability plans, religious organizations for religious purposes, and retroactive projects. This focus ensures that the grant supports local, impactful, and sustainable initiatives. The expected outcome is the successful implementation of a community project by a chosen organization, supported by the $5,000 grant. Measurable results would include the project's completion within the grant year and its tangible benefits to the Harrisburg community, as well as the continued engagement and development of the emerging philanthropists involved in the program. While the foundation's broader strategic priorities and theory of change are not explicitly detailed, the EPP exemplifies a strategy of cultivating local leadership and investment to enhance community well-being and build a robust philanthropic future.

The Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office Forfeiture Fund is designed to support community-based anti-crime and anti-narcotics organizations in accordance with the Pennsylvania Controlled Substances Forfeiture Act and a court order from Sourovelis v. City of Philadelphia. This grant specifically focuses on organizations targeting at-risk youth through various programs, including after-school activities, violence and addiction prevention, recovery and rehabilitation from addiction, and reintegration and employment post-imprisonment with an emphasis on anti-crime/drug/violence initiatives. Funding is guided by the Office of the Attorney General of Pennsylvania and the US Department of Justice, aimed at grassroots community groups in Philadelphia with budgets of $5 million or less. The current grant cycle, running from 05/20 to 06/07, prioritizes Gun violence Intervention, offering grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and government entities in Philadelphia to plant and care for at least 35,000 trees by 2035, focusing on community engagement and environmental equity.

The Central Pennsylvania Community Foundation is offering a grant for non-profit organizations in Blair County, Pennsylvania, to fund projects that empower women and promote acceptance and inclusion, with a focus on workshops, educational events, and direct service projects, to be utilized within the year 2025.

This program provides competitive funding for community organizations and local governments to build or improve public facilities that support work, education, and health monitoring in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and groups in Philadelphia that engage in a variety of artistic and cultural activities, including arts education, community art, and historic preservation.

This funding opportunity is designed to support organizations that provide resources and programs to help pregnant and parenting families in Philadelphia enhance their children's early learning and development.