Virginia grants for Public and State controlled institutions of higher education

The Appalachian Regional Energy Hub Initiative aims to strengthen regional economies by investing in energy resilience through research and planning grants, and implementation grants. The initiative focuses on establishing a regional energy hub for natural gas and natural gas liquids, including hydrogen production. Eligible applicants include local development districts, Indian Tribes, states, counties, cities, and higher education institutions, among others. The total funding available is $5 million, with a grant proposal due by July 24, 2024.

The Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education (SSARE) Education Grants program is designed to fund education and outreach activities that benefit the sustainable agriculture community. This grant directly aligns with SSARE's mission to promote efforts in farmer innovations, community resilience, business success, agricultural diversification, and best management practices. The core objective is to support projects that develop sustainable agriculture systems or move existing systems towards sustainability. The primary beneficiaries of these grants are farmers and farming communities, including those involved in indigenous agriculture producing for community food systems. Academic institutions, non-profits, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), 1890 land-grant university faculty/extension cooperators, 1862 land-grant universities, other colleges and universities, and government agencies are eligible to apply, acting as facilitators for these educational initiatives. The impact goals are centered on fostering a more sustainable, resilient, and economically viable agricultural sector through knowledge dissemination and practical application. Education Grants prioritize projects that clearly articulate what is being taught, to whom, and how the goals will be accomplished. Focus areas include experiential learning (demonstrations, on-farm tours, field days, workshops), integrative approaches (conferences, seminars, course curriculum), and reinforcement methods (fact sheets, bulletins, videos, online technologies). SSARE also encourages proposals on quality of life topics, such as heirs property, farmers’ markets, food hubs, local/regional processing, and urban agriculture systems, emphasizing the social health of farming systems. Expected outcomes include the adoption of sustainable agriculture practices, enhanced farmer innovation, increased community resilience, improved business success for agricultural enterprises, and greater agricultural diversification. Projects should yield results that are realistic, acceptable to farmers, logical, and capable of leading to tangible actions and benefits described in the proposal. The grant projects are strictly focused on education and outreach, with no research component, and are paid by reimbursement of allowable expenses. The foundation's strategic priorities are evident in the grant requirements, which mandate that project outcomes focus on sustainable agriculture systems and clearly demonstrate how education and outreach efforts will be implemented and evaluated. The theory of change underpinning this program is that by providing targeted education and outreach, knowledge and best practices will be transferred to farmers and communities, leading to the development and widespread adoption of sustainable agricultural methods and improved quality of life within farming systems. Project maximums are $50,000, with a duration limited to two years. Applicants from the Southern region, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, are eligible. Farmers involved in these projects must have farming/ranching as their primary occupation or part-time farming with at least $1,000 of documented annual income from their operation, with exceptions for indigenous agriculture.

The Arlington County Department of Human Services is offering a grant funding opportunity to support its Food Security Strategic Plan. This initiative aligns with the department's mission to address food insecurity and improve nutrition equity within Arlington County. The grant aims to support projects that enhance food access, promote outreach and education, build capacity among food assistance providers, and facilitate informed decision-making through data collection. The maximum grant award for a single project is $25,000, with funds to be spent by June 30, 2025. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are Arlington County residents experiencing food insecurity. The program targets various populations through strategies such as enhancing school-based supplemental food offerings, establishing new charitable food distributions in underserved neighborhoods, and increasing nutrition education opportunities for residents of all ages. The overarching impact goal is to eliminate, reduce, and prevent disparities in food security, ensuring that all those in need receive adequate support. The grant prioritizes projects that address at least one of five key strategies outlined in the Strategic Plan: Systemic Change, Food Access, Outreach & Education, Capacity Building, and Informed Decision Making. Specific focuses include improving nutrition equity, increasing food rescue and redistribution, promoting food assistance resources like SNAP, developing training materials for staff and volunteers, and collecting data on usage trends and services. Eligible organizations include IRS-designated 501c3 nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and public schools or universities that serve Arlington residents. Expected outcomes include improved access to nutritious food for Arlington residents, increased awareness and enrollment in food assistance programs, enhanced operational capacity for food pantries and meal programs, and better-informed decision-making based on collected data. Measurable results could include an increase in the number of residents served, the quantity of food distributed, the number of individuals participating in nutrition education, and the implementation of new or improved food security policies and practices. The grant period is from October 2024 through June 30, 2025, with funding awards announced in September 2024.

This funding opportunity supports conservation projects that provide employment and training for young adults and veterans, helping them gain experience in environmental stewardship and resource management on public lands.

This grant provides funding to nonprofits, educational institutions, and local governments for projects that commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, promoting public engagement and historical reflection.

The Transit Ridership Incentive Program (TRIP) aims to create more accessible, safe, and regionally significant transit networks by funding projects across four categories: zero and reduced fare, regional connectivity, public safety, and passenger amenities and facilities. The program encourages applications for both capital and planning projects related to these categories, with requirements and match rates generally mirroring those of the MERIT Capital and Technical Assistance Programs. Regional Connectivity focuses on improving regional transit services and accessibility, especially in urban areas with populations exceeding 100,000. Zero and Reduced Fare projects support the deployment of fare reduction programs to enhance system accessibility and ridership. Public Safety initiatives fund equipment, infrastructure, and programs to ensure the safety of transit riders and workers. Passenger Amenities and Facilities projects invest in infrastructure improvements to enhance the rider experience and system accessibility. Grant renewed every year. Annual opening/closing deadline: December 1st to February 1st

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.

This funding initiative provides financial support to Virginia law enforcement agencies and educational institutions to establish and maintain co-responder teams that collaborate with mental health professionals in crisis situations.

This funding opportunity supports community-focused initiatives by nonprofits, schools, and government entities in Charlottesville and surrounding counties to enhance local well-being and quality of life.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofits, researchers, local governments, and small businesses in Virginia to enhance recreational fishing through conservation, habitat restoration, and fisheries research.

The Virginia250 grants, offered by Virginia Humanities, the Virginia Commission for the Arts, and Virginia Tourism, aim to support localities in developing arts experiences, events, programs, and content in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. This initiative aligns with the broader mission of these organizations to promote cultural understanding, heritage, and tourism within Virginia. The grant program seeks to leverage the historical significance of the 250th commemoration as a backdrop for artistic expression and community engagement across the state. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are diverse, including non-profits established as 501(c)(3) organizations, 501(c)(3) institutions of higher education, other IRS-designated not-for-profit organizations, tribal nations recognized by Virginia and/or the U.S. federal government, and local committees and partners of local VA250 Committees. The program prioritizes inclusive participation, ensuring that tribal nations not recognized by the state or federal government can still apply through an eligible fiscal sponsor. This broad eligibility criteria reflects a strategic priority to engage a wide array of community stakeholders in the commemoration efforts. The primary focus of the grants is to fund projects that offer arts experiences, events, programs, and content directly tied to the 250th commemoration. Applicants can apply for up to $10,000, with a required 1:1 match, indicating an emphasis on shared investment and community partnership. The funding, managed as subawards through the University of Virginia and paid on a reimbursable basis, suggests a commitment to accountability and careful financial stewardship. The project period from August 1, 2024, to August 1, 2025, provides a clear timeline for implementation and impact. The expected outcomes include the successful development and execution of arts-focused commemorative activities across Virginia. Measurable results would likely encompass the number of arts projects funded, the number of localities engaged, the reach of these events (e.g., attendance figures), and the types of artistic content created. The underlying theory of change is that by supporting local arts initiatives tied to a significant historical event, the grants will foster a deeper appreciation for Virginia's heritage, stimulate cultural tourism, and strengthen community bonds through shared experiences. This approach aims to create lasting cultural and economic benefits throughout the state.

The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) solicits applications designed to increase the ability of EPA Region 3 states (Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia and the District of Columbia) to manage food scraps more sustainably through composting. In particular, the NOFO seeks to increase capacity for food scraps composting in the region through the upgrade of yard waste composting facilities. The upgraded yard waste composting facilities will be capable of processing waste food which increases the capacity for wasted food composting in the region. For further details see the NOFO.

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.

Grant Title: NIST MEP is seeking applications to establish and manage Manufacturing Extension Partnership Centers in designated states to provide essential services that enhance the productivity, innovation, and competitiveness of small and mid-sized manufacturers.

This application is part of the provisions under the 2004 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA 2004), its implementing regulations, and the Regulations Governing Special Education Programs for Children with Disabilities in Virginia. It is the formal agreement between local school boards and the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) to ensure compliance and implementation of federal and state laws concerning special education. The plan outlines the requirements for local educational agencies (LEAs) to receive state and Eligibility is limited to local educational agencies (LEAs), state-operated programs, and the Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind. Compliance with IDEA and Virginia special education regulations is mandatory.federal funds for educating children with disabilities, necessitating approval from various educational and state bodies. Applications must be submitted electronically via the OMEGA system. Approval from local school boards, the State Special Education Advisory Committee, and respective educational bodies is required.

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 PATH Foundation’s **Better Together Fund** is designed to strengthen community connections by supporting local events that bring people together in celebration, collaboration, and shared purpose. Established in 2021, the fund reflects PATH’s mission to enhance the quality of life in Virginia’s Piedmont region by fostering engagement, well-being, and unity among residents. Through this program, the foundation aims to make small but meaningful investments in events that inspire belonging and reinforce the social fabric of local communities. Eligible nonprofits and organizations operating in **Fauquier, Rappahannock, and Culpeper counties** may apply for grants of up to **$2,500 per event**. Funding can be used to support a wide variety of community-facing gatherings—such as festivals, cultural celebrations, educational activities, and other inclusive events that encourage participation and connection among local residents. The initiative is particularly focused on efforts that celebrate diversity, build relationships, and create shared experiences that strengthen the sense of community. To qualify, events must take place within one year of submission and comply with all applicable health and safety guidelines. Applicants must be recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, religious institutions, or local government entities. The program’s flexible structure allows for a broad range of creative and community-driven ideas, ensuring that small towns and neighborhoods have the opportunity to host meaningful events that align with PATH’s goal of cultivating healthier, more connected communities. While the grant duration is not specified, the funding operates on a rolling basis, emphasizing timeliness and local relevance. Events supported by the Better Together Fund are intended to be accessible, inclusive, and beneficial to the broader public rather than serving narrow organizational or private interests. The fund’s straightforward application process encourages both established and smaller community groups to apply, removing barriers for those who may not typically pursue grant funding. Through the Better Together Fund, the PATH Foundation continues to champion collaboration and social cohesion as essential pillars of community health. By investing in shared experiences that unite people across backgrounds, the foundation underscores its belief that thriving communities are built not just through infrastructure and services—but through connection, empathy, and collective joy.

This grant provides financial support to artists and arts organizations in the City of Fairfax to create inclusive and accessible cultural projects that enhance community engagement and artistic expression.

This program provides funding to local and state governments, transportation organizations, and similar entities to promote the use of transit, carpools, and vanpools, ultimately reducing traffic congestion and air pollution in Virginia.

This grant provides financial support for organizations in the DC metro area to offer breast cancer screening and diagnostic services to financially disadvantaged patients, ensuring equitable access regardless of background.