Washington grants for Nonprofits

The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office administers the Community Forests Program to help communities preserve working forest heritage while balancing economic, environmental, and recreational benefits. The program supports land acquisition and complementary restoration and recreation development to keep working forests intact. Typical projects acquire forestland and may include restoration of forest and habitat health and development of recreation facilities such as trails, trailheads, parking, restrooms, campgrounds, picnic and day use areas, challenge courses, and interpretive displays. Restoration activities may include removal of fish barriers and actions that restore forest health. Approximately 3,000,000 dollars is available for awards. Eligible applicants include cities, counties, and towns, Native American tribes, nonprofit nature conservancy organizations, special purpose districts and other political subdivisions, and state agencies in partnership with one or more of these groups. All projects must include acquisition; restoration and development cannot be stand alone activities. Applications are due May 1, 2024 through the state process. Grant size and duration beyond the available pool are not specified. Further information is provided by the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office.

The Ellensburg Arts Commission (EAC) invites artists and organizations to submit funding requests for art projects FOR 2025 within the City of Ellensburg. This grant program, with funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, aligns with the EAC's mission to enhance projects that involve community members or organizations in the design, concept, or creation of artwork. The EAC's support aims to foster a vibrant arts community and provide public benefit through artistic endeavors, as grants are part of their annual budget and approved by the City Council. The primary target beneficiaries are individual artists, groups of artists, and arts organizations in the performing or visual arts fields, who are 18 years of age or older. The impact goals include supporting the development of new artwork, facilitating arts-related events, promoting the interpretation of existing artwork, and encouraging the presentation of new artworks or collections. Through these initiatives, the EAC seeks to enrich the cultural landscape of Ellensburg and make art accessible to its residents. The program prioritizes projects based on budget feasibility, the candidate's experience, artistic merit, and public benefit. Funds must be expended for a legitimate municipal purpose, demonstrating a tangible benefit to the community. This includes commissioning or purchasing artwork for public benefit or sponsoring public performances. The EAC places a high priority on programs that best reflect its mission and core values, and directly serve the residents of Ellensburg. Expected outcomes include an increase in community engagement with the arts, the creation of diverse new artworks, and the presentation of various arts-related events. Measurable results could involve the number of projects funded, the reach of public art initiatives, and the number of community members participating in or benefiting from these projects. The EAC also requires acknowledgement of their funding through the inclusion of their logo in publicity and event-related collateral for sponsored projects. The EAC's strategic priorities are rooted in supporting arts programs and projects that merit public funding, recognizing that these grants are supported by public tax dollars. Their theory of change is that by investing in local artists and arts organizations, they can stimulate cultural growth, provide educational opportunities, and enhance the overall quality of life for Ellensburg residents. Eligible expenses for individual artists are between $1,000 and $2,500 and for arts organizations, they are between $1,000 and $2,500. These expenses include professional development, rental/purchase of materials, and promotional/marketing materials. The program encourages annual applications and emphasizes transparency and accountability, with guidelines such as not considering incomplete forms and potentially requesting a project explanation at an Arts Commission meeting. This structured approach ensures that public funds are utilized effectively to foster artistic expression and community enrichment in Ellensburg.

The City of Arlington is offering grants to public and non-profit agencies for projects that foster economic development and tourism within the city. This grant program aims to enhance the local economy and promote Arlington as a desirable destination. The funding available for these grants is $175,000, and awards will be allocated proportionally based on application scores, with higher-scoring projects receiving a larger share of the total funding. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are public and non-profit agencies that can demonstrate projects promoting economic growth and tourism. The impact goals are centered around increasing tourism, supporting local events, and improving tourism-related facilities. This will ultimately benefit the City of Arlington by boosting its economy and improving the quality of life for its residents through enhanced amenities and attractions. The program prioritizes several key areas for funding. These include tourism marketing initiatives, the marketing and operations of special events and festivals, the operation of tourism-related facilities owned by non-profit organizations, and the operations and capital expenditures of tourism-related facilities owned by municipalities. These focus areas are designed to directly contribute to the program's overarching goals of economic development and tourism promotion. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in tourism activity, successful execution of special events and festivals, and the improved operation or development of tourism-related infrastructure. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the proportional funding allocation based on points, the requirement for a 25% project cost match indicates a commitment to projects with significant investment and potential for impact. Applicants are expected to provide details that will allow for the evaluation of the proposed project's benefits.

The Public Works Board (Board) Broadband program is authorized by state statute (RCW 43.155.160). Its purpose is to loan and grant funding to promote the expansion of broadband access to unserved populations in rural and urban communities across the state. $2 million per project loan/grant award limit with a 50% match. Projects in financially distressed areas and Indian country may receive up to 90% of the total project cost for a total not to exceed $5 million.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking grant proposals from applicants interested in conducting projects that will benefit some of Washington’s most imperiled wildlife. The Wildlife Diversity Grant Program aims to support recovery actions for a suite of Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) that are state-listed or candidates for listing. Grant funding can also be awarded for projects aimed at collecting data and information on species abundance, distribution, and habitat associations with priority for those whose habitats are under significant threat of incompatible development, land use, or resource management. Funding for the Wildlife Diversity Grant program comes from a significant investment by the state legislature to restore and protect biodiversity in Washington, and the Department expects this funding to be available in future biennia to continue this grant program. Priority Activities for Funding Priority activities include: Implementing recovery and conservation actions for eligible Washington endangered, threatened, sensitive, and candidate species that directly and measurably benefit species populations. These projects contribute to increased species abundance, distribution, population health, or clear abatement of direct threats. Collecting data and information on the abundance, distribution, habitat associations, or natural history of eligible state endangered, threatened, sensitive, and candidate species, with additional priority given toward species whose habitat is under significant pressure from development, land use, or resource management (i.e., shrubsteppe, eastside forest, prairies, and oak woodlands). Completing direct actionable steps toward achieving increased populations of eligible species (e.g., conservation translocation feasibility studies) or baseline data collection (e.g., developing survey protocols or assessing habitat use) for eligible species. Ineligible activities include habitat restoration, conservation easements, land acquisition, outreach and education, and projects that primarily target benefits for species outside the WDFW Wildlife Diversity Division’s scope of responsibility, including fish, aquatic invertebrates, wolves, and harvested wildlife. Review the grant opportunity announcement for more details on priority, eligible, and ineligible activities for inclusion in grant proposals, including a list of eligible species. How to apply Grant applicants must email their complete proposal to [email protected] no later than 11:59 pm on May 5, 2024. Please refer to the grant announcement for instructions on the required application components and their formats. Agency contact info Questions and communications concerning this grant opportunity may be directed to: Jenna Judge Wildlife Diversity Assistant Division Manager Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife [email protected]

This funding opportunity provides financial support for youth sports and activity scholarships, as well as equipment purchases, to organizations serving low to middle-income families in Spokane, particularly those from historically marginalized communities.

This grant provides $100,000 over two years to grassroots organizations in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming that focus on building community power and leadership among diverse groups, with a priority for those led by BIPOC and working in rural or reservation areas.

The Washington State Department of Commerce is offering a grant program aimed at supporting the construction of affordable housing near transit. This initiative aligns with the department's mission of building communities and addressing housing needs within the state. The program makes $12.5 million in state funds available through a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) issued by the Multifamily Housing Unit (MHU). The program's evolution, particularly with changes from the 2024 Legislature, underscores a strategic adaptation to expand eligibility and ensure more projects can benefit from the funding. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are applicants involved in affordable housing projects, specifically those that applied to certain past funding rounds (HFU-2021-02, HFU-2021.05, HFU-2021-06, MHU-2022-02, MHU-2022-04, MHU-2023-01, MHU-2023-02, MHU-2023-03). The impact goal is to increase the availability of affordable housing, particularly in transit-oriented development (TOD) areas. The initial allocation strategy involved Cohort 1 for streamlined applications to "lookback" projects and Cohort 2 for supplemental applications from eligible 2023 applicants. A key priority and focus of this grant program is to fund projects that contribute to affordable housing near transit. Legislative changes in 2024 further refined these priorities by reducing the minimum number of units required and expanding the definition of TOD, thereby broadening the scope of eligible projects. This strategic shift demonstrates the department's commitment to making the grant more accessible and effective in addressing the state's housing challenges. The NOFA is specifically released for Cohort 1 and 2 applicants, indicating a targeted approach to support existing projects or those with prior engagement with the department's funding rounds. The expected outcomes of this grant program include the successful construction or development of affordable housing units near transit hubs across Washington State. Measurable results would involve the number of projects funded, the total number of affordable housing units created or preserved, and the geographic distribution of these projects. The maximum TOD award per project is $5 million, which provides significant financial support to achieve these outcomes. The department's theory of change appears to be that by strategically investing in affordable housing near transit, they can foster more sustainable and accessible communities, reduce commuting burdens, and enhance the quality of life for residents.

The Whidbey Community Foundation (WCF) Capacity-Building Grant program is designed to strengthen the organizational effectiveness of nonprofits operating on Whidbey Island. This aligns directly with WCF's mission to support the foundational strength of these organizations, believing that robust internal capacity directly translates to more effective programs and services for the community. The grants are specifically for one-time projects that address an organization's strategic plan to improve management, governance, and administration, rather than funding direct programmatic improvements. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are nonprofits with charitable status or purpose on Whidbey Island. The overarching impact goal is to enhance the overall effectiveness and sustainability of these organizations. By investing in internal capacity, WCF aims to create a ripple effect, where stronger organizations are better equipped to serve their own beneficiaries and achieve their missions more effectively. The program prioritizes projects that contribute to an organization's long-term health and efficiency. Specific areas of focus include evaluation of core programs, staff or board training, assessment and implementation of technology upgrades, various types of planning (HR, succession, fundraising, financial sustainability), merger planning, and the development and implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. Projects that are not eligible include operating costs (other than those related to the capacity-building project), expansion of existing programs, creation of new programs, brick-and-mortar projects, endowment campaigns, pass-through grants, or grants to cover lost funding or budget deficits. Expected outcomes include improved organizational management, enhanced governance structures, and more efficient administrative processes. Measurable results could include, for example, a successfully implemented new technology system, a completed strategic HR plan, or a more diverse and inclusive board following training and policy development. The foundation's strategic priority is rooted in a theory of change that posits by strengthening the internal capacity of its grantees, WCF indirectly but powerfully strengthens the vital programs and services these nonprofits provide to the Whidbey Island community. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, with most falling between $1,000 and $5,000, and the deadline for applications is August 31, 2024.

The Pennsylvania Council on the Arts (PCA) is currently accepting applications for the 2024-2025 Creative Sector Flex Fund (CSFF). This grant program aims to provide flexible support to eligible applicants that offer consistent annual artistic programming and/or arts services within Pennsylvania. The fund is designed to bolster the administrative, programmatic, and project-related expenses of arts organizations, aligning with the PCA's mission to support and strengthen the arts community across the state. This initiative reflects the PCA's strategic priority of fostering a vibrant and sustainable creative sector by providing direct financial assistance where it's most needed. The primary beneficiaries of the CSFF are nonprofit, tax-exempt corporations, or units of local government in Pennsylvania that demonstrate a history of at least two years of consistent arts programming. Pre-K-12 public, private, and parochial schools are not eligible, but are directed to other PCA opportunities. The fund targets organizations with an annual average arts revenue between $10,000 and $200,000. The impact goal is to ensure the continued delivery of artistic programming and services to communities throughout Pennsylvania, thereby enriching the cultural landscape and supporting the economic viability of the arts sector. The program prioritizes flexibility, allowing funds to be used for a wide range of needs, including administrative costs, program development, and specific project expenses. This approach is rooted in the understanding that a resilient arts sector requires adaptable support. While annual grants are not guaranteed and are dependent on the PCA's budget, the expected outcome is that successful applicants will be able to maintain or expand their artistic offerings, reach broader audiences, and continue to contribute to the cultural and economic well-being of Pennsylvania. Measurable results would include the number of organizations supported, the scope and reach of the artistic programming delivered, and the overall stability of the recipient organizations. By investing in these entities, the PCA's theory of change posits that targeted financial support will lead to a more robust, diverse, and accessible arts environment, ultimately benefiting all Pennsylvanians. The project period for this grant is January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025, with a grant size ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, typically set at $5,000 per applicant.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations that provide stable housing and empower low- and moderate-income communities, focusing on vulnerable populations such as working families, youth, seniors, and veterans.

This funding opportunity provides financial and technical support to small businesses and microenterprises in Vancouver, focusing on those owned by individuals with low to moderate incomes.

This grant provides financial support to schools and early learning services in Washington state for purchasing and preparing nutritious, locally sourced foods to improve children's meal programs and promote healthy eating habits.

Program: Housing Repair Program Funder: City of Federal Way Award Details: The Housing Repair Program offers financial assistance to lower-income homeowners in the City of Federal Way. Eligible homeowners can receive up to $20,000 per property for urgent repairs that are necessary to ensure the health and safety of residents. For owned manufactured homes on leased land, the maximum amount available is up to 50% of the home's value, not exceeding $5,000. The program is funded by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). Eligibility: To qualify for assistance, applicants must be owner-occupants of a single-family or mobile home within the municipal boundaries of the City of Federal Way. Their gross annual income should not exceed 80% of the King County Area Median Income (AMI), adjusted for household size. Applicants must provide proof of homeownership, current homeowners insurance, and being current on property taxes and mortgage payments. Certain improvements may be ineligible or beyond the scope of the program and may be referred to additional partners. Other Information: Repairs covered under the program include roof repair or replacement, furnace repair or replacement, water heater repair or replacement, plumbing repairs, electrical repairs, exterior door repairs for safety, ADA accessibility improvements, and other emergency repairs authorized by City Staff. The program aims to preserve existing housing stock, revitalize neighborhoods, conserve property tax base, expand housing alternatives, encourage neighborhood improvements, remove health and safety hazards, and reduce utility costs. Link to Apply: [Housing Repair Program Application](https://www.cityoffederalway.com/sites/default/files/Documents/Department/CD/ComSvc/Housing%20Repair/2023%20Housing%20Repair%20Program%20Application.pdf)

MICC-FSH announces a potential partnering opportunity for the Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) Army Compatible Use Buffer (ACUB) program. The successful applicant(s) will, after coordinating with JBLM encroachment planners and natural resource managers:(a) Negotiate the purchase of easements or fee simple property (perpetual real property interests) from willing landowners to allow for natural resource management, or prevent incompatible development that could adversely impact JBLM and/or,(b) Conduct, assist in, or facilitate natural resource management that will result in off-post conservation credits for species listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) that occur on JBLM. Additional species may be listed under the ESA during the period of performance of any agreement awarded under this announcement. Inclusion of any such species will be addressed on a case-by-case basis, and with the mutual agreement of JBLM and award recipient.

The City of Gig Harbor is offering 2025 Lodging Tax Grants to foster tourism and economic activity within its limits. This program is funded by a percentage of hotel/motel taxes collected from lodging establishments, with funds distributed by the Department of Revenue back to the City. These grants are specifically allocated for tourism-related capital facilities, non-event operations, and event marketing and operations, aligning with the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), Chapter 67.28, which details the use and reporting of tourism funds. The target beneficiaries for this program are non-profit organizations and municipalities that can demonstrate the ability to achieve specific tourism-related goals. The primary impact goals are to increase hotel/lodging occupancy within the City of Gig Harbor by generating overnight stays and to increase the number of visitors traveling more than 50 miles away to the city. All applicants are required to provide estimates on how their proposed activities will lead to these increases, including attracting visitors from other states or countries. The program's priorities and focuses revolve around maximizing tourism promotion and its economic impact. "Tourism" is defined as economic activity from tourists, encompassing sales of lodging, meals, tours, gifts, or souvenirs. "Tourism promotion" includes activities like advertising, publicizing, developing strategies to expand tourism, and operating special events and festivals designed to attract tourists. "Tourism-related facilities" are properties with a usable life of three or more years that support tourism, performing arts, or accommodate tourist activities. The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee considers various factors when making recommendations, including the estimated available funds, proposal thoroughness, financial stability of the applicant, and projected economic impact, particularly on overnight stays. Expected outcomes and measurable results are central to the grant program. Applicants must explicitly detail how their activities will result in increased overnight stays and an influx of visitors from over 50 miles away, or from outside the state/country. The City requires this data to be collected and provided in the lodging tax application. The Committee’s considerations, such as the projected economic impact and the applicant’s history of tourism promotion success, underscore the emphasis on tangible, positive results directly related to tourism growth and economic benefit for Gig Harbor.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and tribal entities in underserved areas of Washington State to deliver healing and transition services for adults who have experienced sex trafficking.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to tribal governments, nonprofits, and educational institutions for solar energy projects that enhance energy independence and benefit low-to-moderate income communities.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in South King County that offer emergency shelter services for families experiencing homelessness, focusing on best practices in care and service delivery.