Grants for U.S. Nonprofits, Schools, Universities, or Government Agencies Providing Non-Traditional Solutions to Employ Individuals With Disabilities

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post, for more information on it]

"Deadline: February 1, 2013 (Online Concept Application)

"Kessler Foundation Invites Concept Proposals for Signature Employment Grants Program

"The Kessler Foundation is accepting applications for its Signature Employment Grants program, an annual program that supports non-traditional solutions and/or social ventures designed to increase employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities.

"The program awards grants nationally to fund new pilot initiatives, demonstration projects, and social ventures that lead to the generation of new ideas to solve the high unemployment and underemployment of individuals with disabilities. Preference is given to interventions that overcome specific employment barriers related to long-term dependence on public assistance, advance competitive employment in a cost-effective manner, or launch a social enterprise or individual entrepreneurship project. Signature grants are not intended to fund project expansions or bring proven projects to new communities.

"Projects must be collaborative, serve a large geographic area, and include multiple funding partners and stakeholders. In addition, initiatives or projects must have the potential for growth, scalability, or replication.

"Any organization recognized as a tax-exempt entity according to the Internal Revenue Code may apply for funding. This includes nonprofit agencies, public and private schools, and public institutions such as universities and government (state, local, federal) agencies in the United States or any of its territories.

"Applicants may seek funding for $100,000 to $250,000 per year, for maximum project funding of $500,000 over two years.

"Visit the Kessler Foundation Web site for complete program information and application procedures."

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Lowering the Cost of Housing Competition Grants for Innovation in Reducing Affordable Housing Costs

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post for more information]

"Deadline: January 15, 2013

"New National Competition Launches to Reduce Affordable Housing Costs Through Innovation

"To recognize and support the creation of innovative affordable housing developments, Deutsche Bank and Enterprise Community Partners, Inc. are launching the Lowering the Cost of Housing Competition, which will award up to $250,000 in program-related investments to the winning proposal. Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation also is providing an additional $50,000 in grant funds to be awarded to proposals that show innovation in practice or industry understanding of cost-lowering measures. A Center for Design, Research, and Real Estate at Syracuse University School of Architecture is coordinating the national competition.

"The competition is seeking submissions from multidisciplinary teams working to create multifamily affordable housing projects that improve neighborhoods and reduce traditional developmental and building costs.

"Lowering the Cost seeks to provide a new model for conceiving, siting, financing, building, and sustaining affordable housing. Selected teams will work on a specific site, proposing designs for multi-unit dwellings that present new methods for designing, building, and financing housing for individuals or families below 100 percent of area median income.

"Submissions should propose new and innovative approaches to affordable housing design while addressing statutory limitations, including current zoning and building code regulations. Proposals that work with their jurisdictions to investigate methods for clearing impediments to lowering the cost of housing will be scored highly.

"Applications from teams comprised of architects, developers, and policy professionals are strongly encouraged, and entrants are further encouraged to develop creative collaborations that include policy makers, planners, social service providers, academic departments, and research institutes. Submissions must be projects that can be completed on or before December 2014.

"Complete competition guidelines, updates, and application materials are available at the Lowering the Cost Web site.

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Grants for Emprical Research Programs Improving Lives of U.S. Youth Between 8 and 25 Years Old

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post for more information].

"Deadline: January 3, 2013 (Letters of Inquiry)

"William T. Grant Foundation Accepting Letters of Inquiry for Studies on the Use of Research Evidence in Policy and Practice Affecting Youth

"The William T. Grant Foundation seeks to fund high-quality empirical research with the goal of improving the lives of youth between 8 and 25 years of age in the United States. To help accomplish this goal, the foundation is requesting Letters of Inquiry for its Request for Proposals on Understanding the Acquisition, Interpretation, and Use of Research Evidence in Policy and Practice.

"Support will be provided for empirical theory-building studies of what affects policy makers' and practitioners' acquisition, interpretation, and use of research evidence. The foundation is interested in policy and practice directly relevant to youth in the U.S..  Areas of focus can include education, juvenile justice, child welfare, health, family support, employment, mental health, and youth programs.

"The foundation will consider applications for newly initiated studies as well as add-on studies to existing projects. Add-on studies must address research questions not covered by prior funding from the Grant Foundation or other donors, although they may cover secondary analyses of existing data or collection and analyses of new data.

"The foundation encourages interdisciplinary projects and welcomes applications from researchers in various fields and disciplines, including anthropology, communications, economics, education, family studies, human development, organizational studies, political science, prevention research, psychology, public administration, public policy, public health, social work, and sociology.

"To be eligible for consideration, applicants must be employed at a nonprofit institution, either in the U.S. or abroad.

"The foundation will support research projects with awards ranging from $100,000 to $600,000 for direct and indirect costs over two to three years.

"Visit the Grant Foundation Web site for the complete Request for Proposals and application instructions."

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Grants for Creative "Place-Making" Arts Or Design Nonprofits' and Artists' Projects Fostering Community Identity and Revitalizing Economics

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post for more information].

"Deadline: January 14, 2013

"National Endowment for the Arts Invites Creative Place-Making Proposals for Our Town Grant Program

"The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) has published guidelines and the application for the next funding round of Our Town, the agency's primary creative place-making grants program.

"Through the program, the endowment will provide a limited number of grants for creative place-making projects that contribute toward the livability of communities of all sizes in the United States and help transform them into lively, beautiful, and sustainable places with the arts at their core.

"The program seeks to invest in creative and innovative projects in which communities, together with their arts and design organizations and artists, seek to improve their quality of life; encourage greater creative activity; foster stronger community identity and a sense of place; and revitalize economic development. Projects may include arts engagement, cultural planning, and design activities.

"All Our Town applications must reflect a partnership that will provide leadership for the project. These partnerships must involve two primary partners — a nonprofit organization and a local government entity. One of the two primary partners must be a cultural (arts or design) organization. Additional partners are encouraged and may include an appropriate variety of entities such as state-level government agencies, foundations, arts organizations and artists, nonprofit organizations, design professionals and design centers, educational institutions, real estate developers, business leaders, and community organizations, as well as public and governmental entities.

"Grants will range from $25,000 to $200,000.

"Complete program guidelines, an FAQ, and information on previously funded projects are available at the NEA Web site."

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Grants for U.S. Nonprofits, Governments, Tribes, and Educational Institutions Linking Econimic Development and Community Well Being to Stewardship & Health of the Environment

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post, for more information].

"Deadline: December 3, 2012

"Wells Fargo and the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation Accepting Applications for Environmental Solutions for Communities Grant Program

"Wells Fargo and the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) are offering financial assistance through Environmental Solutions for Communities, a new grant program designed to help communities in the United States create a more sustainable future through responsible environmental stewardship.

"The program will support highly visible projects that link economic development and community well-being to the stewardship and health of the environment.

"Priority for grants will be given to projects that successfully address one or more of the following: innovative, cost-effective stewardship on private agricultural lands to enhance water quality and quantity and/or improve wildlife habitat for species of concern while maintaining or increasing agricultural productivity; community-based conservation of local habitats and natural areas, efforts to enhance water quality, promote urban forestry, educate and train community leaders on sustainable practices, promote related job creation and training, and/or engage diverse partners and volunteers; showcase innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly approaches to improve environmental conditions within urban communities by "greening" traditional infrastructure and public projects such as storm water management and flood control, public park enhancements, and renovations to public facilities; and increase the economic and biological resiliency of the nation's coastal communities and ecosystems (including the Great Lakes) by restoring coastal habitats, living resources, and water quality.

"For the 2013 program, preference will be given to projects in priority regions and states, with a particular emphasis on urban areas.

"Eligible applicants include nonprofit 501(c) organizations; state, tribal, and local governments; and educational institutions. Applicants must be working in states where Wells Fargo operates. Individuals, federal agencies, and private for-profit firms are not eligible.

"Grants will typically range from $25,000 to $100,000 for projects of 18 months.

"The complete Request for Proposals, list of priority geographic areas, and application instructions are available at the NFWF Web site."

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Grants for Organizations Providing Care to People Living With HIV/AIDS From Under Served Populations

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post for more information].

"Deadline: November 2, 2012

"AIDS United and MAC AIDS Fund Announce Retention in Care for People Living With HIV/AIDS Funding Opportunity

"AIDS United and the M·A·C AIDS Fund have announced a Request for Proposals for the Retention in Care initiative, which aims to increase retention in effective HIV health care by people living with HIV/AIDS, particularly those who are living in poverty and are at risk for dropping out of care or becoming sub-optimally engaged in care.

"The program will support approximately five grantees in the United States to facilitate retention in HIV health care by strengthening support and service systems and addressing barriers that affect people's ability to consistently participate in such care.

"AIDS United encourages applications that include a focus on marginalized, under-served populations that traditionally have less access to, and retention within, medical care. The organization is especially interested in funding proposals that combine retention in care efforts with intersecting areas of concern — for example, intimate partner violence, depression/mental health treatment, housing, and food security.

"The Request For Proposal (RFP) process will be open to any qualified applicant regardless of their funding status with AIDS United.

"Total project budgets are expected to be in the range of $200,000 to $250,000 annually. Grant funds may be used for direct retention in care program expenses; personnel expenses for staff providing direct services to the clients served by this project (peer navigators, nurse practitioners, case managers, early intervention specialists, outreach workers, etc.); overall initiative coordination; project evaluation; and information systems development and implementation.

"The complete Retention in Care RFP and application instructions are available at the AIDS United web site."

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Grants and Scholarships for U.S. Middle or High School After School Science or Environmental Clubs' Students

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post, for more information]

"Posted on September 27, 2012
"Deadline: Various

"Lexus and Scholastic Launch Sixth Annual Environmental Contest for Middle and High School Students

"A program of automaker Lexus and children's publishing company Scholastic, the Lexus Eco Challenge is an educational program and contest designed to inspire and empower middle and high school students in the United States to learn about the environment and take action to improve it. In its sixth year, the program will award a total of $500,000 in grants and scholarships.

"The competition is open to students in grades 6-12 who are either registered and home-schooled or enrolled in a public or accredited private school, and who are legal residents of the U.S. or the District of Columbia. Teams of students can enter if they are part of an after school science or environmental club, but the challenge is not open to clubs outside of school.

"Middle and high school teams comprised of five to ten students and a teacher-advisor are invited to participate in one or both of the two initial challenges, each addressing different environmental elements — land/water and air/climate.

"For each of the challenges, teams define an environmental issue that is important to them, develop an action plan to address the issue, implement the plan, and report the results. The submission deadline for Challenge 1 (land/water) is October 29, 2012; the deadline for Challenge 2 (air/climate) is December 17, 2012.

"Each of the challenges will have sixteen winning entries — eight middle school and eight high school teams. The winning teams each will receive a total of $10,000 in scholarships and grants to be shared among the students, teacher, and school.

"In early January, the winning teams from the first two challenges will be invited to participate in the program's final challenge. Teams will be asked to reach beyond the local community and inspire environmental action around the world through innovative ideas that are communicated to a wide audience. From the final challenge entries, eight first-place teams and two grand prize-winning teams will be selected. Each of the eight first-place teams will receive a total of $15,000 in grants and scholarships, and two grand prize-winning teams will each receive $30,000. The money will be shared by the students, their teacher-advisers, and their schools.

"For complete program information and entry requirements, visit the Eco Challenge Web site.

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Grants for Nonprofits Providing Housing to U.S. Veterans

From The Foundation Center...

[This grant is available to registered 501(c)(3) groups to apply for (not individual people).  The community groups that receive the grant will use the money to house U.S. service people.  If you are interested in more information on this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post for more information]

"Deadline: October 12, 2012

"Home Depot Foundation Offers Grants to Support the Housing Needs of Military Veterans

"As part of its Celebration of Service initiative to ensure that every United States military veteran has a safe place to call home, the Home Depot Foundation is inviting community groups to apply for a Celebration of Service grant through the Community Impact Grants Program.

"Grant proposals must specifically identify service projects that benefit veterans.

"Community Impact Grants support a range of activities, including repairs, refurbishments, and modifications to low-income and/or transitional veteran's housing or community facilities; weatherizing or projects designed to increase the energy efficiency of low-income and/or transitional veterans' housing or community facilities; and planting trees or community gardens and/or landscaping community facilities that serve veterans. Grants must support work completed by community volunteers in the U.S.

"Only registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, tax-exempt public schools, and tax- exempt public agencies in the U.S. are eligible to apply.

"Grants of up to $5,000 will be provided in the form of Home Depot gift cards for the purchase of tools, materials, or services.

"Complete program guidelines and the online grant application are available at the Home Depot Foundation Web site."

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Grants for American and Canadian Grades 6 - 12 Science Classes ala the Shell Science Lab Challenge

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the bottom of this blog post, for more information]

"Deadline: November 12, 2012

National Science Teachers Association Accepting Entries for Shell Science Lab Challenge

"The National Science Teachers Association, (NSTA) with support from Shell Oil Company, is accepting entries for the third annual Shell Science Lab Challenge.

"The challenge invites middle and high school science teachers (grades 6-12) in the United States and Canada (with special attention to urban and underrepresented groups) to illustrate replicable approaches to science lab instruction utilizing limited school and laboratory resources.

"Entries will be judged on the basis of a number of criteria, including demonstrated science inquiry and innovation in the classroom with limited laboratory equipment, materials, and resources; demonstrated impact and engagement with students and the school community; and demonstrated need for support to improve science laboratory experiences.

"Fifty-four regional finalists will be selected and asked to create a short video that displays the school's current science laboratory facilities and provides further explanation of how winning equipment and resources would make a difference in their science teaching and in the learning experience for students. The judging panel will then review the submissions and select eighteen regional winners. Of the eighteen winners, five national finalists will be chosen, and from those finalists a grand-prize winner will be selected.

"More than $90,000 in lab makeover prizes will be awarded to the eighteen winning schools. All winners will receive science lab equipment, cash grants, membership to the NSTA, and support to attend NSTA conferences on science education.

"For complete program guidelines and the application form, visit the NSTA Web site."

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Grants for U.S. Or Foreign Documentary Filmmakers

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post for more information...]

"Deadline: November 5, 2012

Tribeca Film Institute Announces Guidelines for Documentary Fund

"The Tribeca Film Institute (TFI) Documentary Fund provides grants and guidance to exceptional filmmakers with character-driven nonfiction works-in-progress that sit outside of the social issue landscape. By supporting work that engages in unexplored perspectives, the fund aims to help take audiences into someone else's environment and spotlight the journey of the individual.

"Submissions must be feature-length documentaries with an intended length of at least seventy minutes and should creatively document one or more unique characters. Submissions can be in the advanced stages of development, production, or post-production but must not have aired on any form of television, been screened publicly, or have been distributed in theaters or online prior to February 2013. Submitted films must show enough footage to highlight character, unique access, and storytelling ability.

"Foreign language documentaries are eligible but must be subtitled and suitable for an American audience.

"The program is open to filmmakers anywhere in the world. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older. Student films and documentary short films are not eligible.

"Grants of at least $10,000 will be awarded.

"The program will accept submissions beginning September 5, 2012, and close November 5, 2012.

"Visit the TFI Web site for complete program guidelines and submission requirements."

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Grants for U.S. Nonprofits Providing Innovative Programs Addressing Young Men of Color's Health & Success Challenges

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post, for more information].

"Deadline: October 10, 2012 (Brief proposals)

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Announces Forward Promise Innovation Grants to Promote the Health and Success of Young Men of Color

"Forward Promise Innovation Grants: Promoting Opportunities for the Health and Success of Young Men of Color is a new initiative of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) to improve the health of middle school- and high school-aged boys and young men of color, as well as their opportunities for success in school, work, and life.

"The program's goal is to identify and support innovative programs that address the challenges facing young men of color and that correspond with RWJF's areas of interest; have potential to change the organization and system(s) of service delivery; be poised for growth and/or replication; and demonstrate the potential to transform social norms within the context of schools and/or communities.

"Applicants must have implemented an existing program model that has a fully articulated theory of change or logic model, have preliminary evidence of improving outcomes for this population, and demonstrate potential to be replicated for broader application and greater impact. Preference will be given to organizations or institutions that apply funds to support program infrastructure and project expansion. No more than 50 percent of the grant request should be allocated to existing program activities.

"The foundation will award funding to projects with preliminary evidence of impact in four areas: alternative approaches to harsh school discipline that do not push students out of school; solutions that focus on dropout prevention and increasing middle school retention and high school graduation rates; mental health interventions that tailor approaches to boys and young men who have experienced and/or been exposed to violence and trauma; and career training programs that blend workforce and education emphases to ensure that students are college- and career-ready.

"Preference will be given to applicant organizations that are either public entities or nonprofit organizations that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and are not private foundations or Type III supporting organizations. Applicant organizations must be based in the United States or its territories, and must have an organizational budget of at least $1.5 million annually.

"Up to ten grants of up to $500,000 will be awarded for periods of up to thirty months.

"An optional applicant Web conference call will be held on September 11, 2012. Registration is required.
Visit the RWJF Web site for the complete call for proposals, application instructions, and Web conference call details."

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Grants for Music Research and Preservation Projects of the Music and Sound Heritage of the Americas

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post for more information].

"Deadline: October 1, 2012 (Letters of Inquiry)

"Grammy Foundation Accepting Letters of Inquiry for 2012-13 Grants in Music Research and Preservation Projects

"Funded by the Recording Academy, the Grammy Foundation's grant program annually provides support for music archiving and preservation efforts and for scientific research projects related to the impact of music on the human condition.

"The scientific research projects grant program awards funding of up to $20,000 to organizations and individuals working to research the impact of music on the human condition. Examples include the study of the effects of music on mood, cognition, and healing; the medical and occupational well-being of music professionals; and the creative process underlying music. Priority will be given to projects with strong methodological design as well those designed to address an important research question.

"The archiving and preservation projects grant program awards grants to organizations and individuals to support efforts that advance the archiving and preservation of the music and recorded sound heritage of the Americas. The archiving and preservation area has two funding categories — preservation implementation (grants of up to $20,000) and planning, assessment and/or consultation (grants of up to $5,000).

"Visit the Grammy Foundation Web site for complete program guidelines and the Letter of Inquiry form."

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Fellowships for U.S. or Japanese Citizens Researching Topics of Pressing Global Concern In Multidisciplinary Teams

From The Foundation Center...

[For more information on this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" or the live SSRC web site link in the last paragraph at the end of this blog post.]

"Deadline: September 1, 2012

"Abe Fellowship Offers Support for International Multidisciplinary Research on Topics of Pressing Global Concern

"The Social Science Research Council, the Japan Foundation Center for Global Partnership, and the American Council of Learned Societies have announced the annual Abe Fellowship Program competition.
The Abe Fellowship is designed to encourage international multidisciplinary research on topics of pressing global concern. Applications for the program, which provides research support to individuals, are welcome from scholars and non-academic research professionals.

"The fellowship program committee seeks applications for research explicitly focused on policy-relevant and contemporary issues with a comparative or transnational perspective that draw the study of the United States and Japan into wider disciplinary or theoretical debates.

"Applicants are invited to submit proposals for research in the social sciences and related disciplines relevant to any one or any combination of the program's three themes — traditional and non-traditional approaches to security and diplomacy, global and regional economic issues, and social and cultural issues.

"The competition is open to citizens of the U.S. and Japan as well as to nationals of other countries who can demonstrate strong and serious long-term affiliations with research communities in Japan or the U.S.

"Applicants must hold a Ph.D. or the terminal degree in their field, or have attained an equivalent level of professional experience at the time of application.

"Terms of the fellowship are flexible and are designed to meet the needs of researchers at different stages in their careers. The program provides fellows with a minimum of three and maximum of twelve months of full-time support over a twenty-four month period. Candidates should propose to spend at least one third of the fellowship tenure in residence abroad in Japan or the U.S.

"Visit the SSRC Web site for complete program guidelines and application procedures."

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Grants for Various Different Types of U.S.Organizations' Librarians' Education and Training Needs

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in more information about this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post].

"Deadline: September 17, 2012

"Institute of Museum and Library Services Accepting Applications for the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program

"The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is accepting applications for the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program.

"The program invests in the nation's information infrastructure by funding projects designed to address the education and training needs of the professionals who help build, maintain, and provide public access to information systems and sources.

"In 2013, the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program will support projects to develop faculty and library leaders, to recruit and educate the next generation of librarians and archivists, to build institutional capacity in graduate schools of library and information science, and to assist in the professional development of librarians and archivists. The program is especially interested in developing information professionals who can help manage the burgeoning data generated by the nation's researchers, serve as stewards of the nation's cultural legacy, and meet the information needs of the under-served. The program also seeks to help librarians develop the information and digital literacy of their communities, as well as other critical skills users will need to be successful in the twenty-first century.

"Grants will be awarded in the categories of doctoral programs, master's programs, early career development, programs to build institutional capacity, and continuing education.

"To be eligible, applicants must be either a unit of state or local government or a private nonprofit organization and be located in one of the fifty states of the United States of America, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, or the Republic of Palau. In addition, applicants must be a library or a parent organization, an academic or administrative unit, a digital library, a library agency, a library consortium, or a library association. Grant amounts will range from $50,000 to $500,000. In order to receive a grant, applicants must provide funds from non-federal sources in an amount that is equal to or greater than the amount of the grant after subtraction of student support costs.

"Visit the IMLS Web site for complete program guidelines, eligibility requirements, and application procedures."

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Grants for North American Nonprofits Bringing Joy, Comfort, and Learning to Children In Need

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post for more information].

"Deadline: Rolling

"Toy Industry Foundation Invites Grant Proposals for Programs to Help Children in Need

"The Toy Industry Foundation invites grant proposals from nonprofit organizations seeking full or partial funding for special projects or ongoing programs designed to improve the lives of children in need. Proposals must demonstrate how grant funds will help fulfill the Toy Industry Foundation's mission to "bring joy, comfort, and learning to children in need through play."

"The foundation seeks to fund nonprofit organizations and projects in North America that enrich the lives and increase the well-being of children (infants through adolescents) or families in need through play by focusing on education (summer and school-year programming), health and safety, youth development and leadership, play and recreational activities, and/or arts and culture. The term "in need" refers to but is not limited to those affected by poverty , homelessness, special needs, pediatric illness, natural disasters, and disparity in access to education or recreational opportunities.

"The foundation accepts proposals from qualified nonprofit organizations based in North America. In the United States, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and educational organizations as defined in USC 26 § 170 (C) are eligible. Organizations based in other areas of North America (outside the U.S.) must hold similar nonprofit status designations.

"There is no set grant range.

"Grant proposals will be accepted on a rolling basis for at least the remainder of 2012.

"Visit the Toy Industry Foundation Web site for complete program guidelines and proposal requirements."

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Grants for Health Impact Assessments of Decisions Made In Other Sectors (i.e. Civil Engineering, Agricultural Legislation, Etc.)

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post for more information].

"Deadline: September 14, 2012

"Health Impact Project Announces Call for Proposals to Bring Health Into Decisions in Non-Health Sectors

"The Health Impact Project, a collaboration of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Pew Charitable Trusts, has announced a Call for Proposals for organizations seeking to conduct health impact assessments (HIAs). HIAs identify and address the health impacts of decisions in other sectors, such as planning roads, passing agriculture legislation, or siting schools.

"The Call for Proposals will support two kinds of awards: HIA demonstration projects that inform a specific decision and help to build the case for the value of HIA; and HIA program grants to enable organizations with previous HIA experience to conduct HIAs and develop sustainable, self-supporting HIA programs at the local, state, or tribal level.

"Demonstration Projects — The project will support up to five HIA demonstration projects designed to inform decisions on proposed local, tribal, or state policies, projects, or programs, or federal decisions that will have impacts limited to a specific state, region, or local community, such as permitting a new mine or building a new highway. Grants will be up to $75,000 and must be completed within eighteen months.

"Applicants need not have experience with HIA to apply. Because many of the HIAs done in the United States to date have focused on aspects of urban land use planning, proposals focused on other topics will receive preference. Additionally, high priority will be given to HIAs from geographic regions where few HIAs have been completed to date. In addition to the five projects from the nationwide search, the Health Impact Project, in cooperation with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota Foundation, will support up to three demonstration projects in Minnesota.

"Program Grants — The project will fund three HIA program grants to support organizations that have completed at least one prior HIA to conduct at least two HIAs, and to implement a plan that establishes the relationships, systems, and funding mechanisms needed to maintain a stable HIA program that endures beyond the conclusion of the grant period. Applicants may request grants of up to $250,000 for programs to be completed within twenty-four months. Grantees will be asked to provide a minimum of $100,000 in matching funds, either through in-kind contributions of staff time or through outside funding sources.

"Grants will support government agencies, educational organizations, or nonprofit organizations.

"The project will host three webinars for potential applicants on August 1, August 7, and August 15, 2012.

"Registration is required for all webinar attendees. Early response is encouraged, as participation will be limited.

"Visit the Health Impact Project Web site for complete program guidelines, an FAQ, and webinar information and registration."

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Seed Grants for Projects Effectively Co-Stewarding National Wildlife Refuge Natural Resources

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post for more information].

"Deadline: August 20, 2012

"Applications Invited for National Wildlife Refuge Friends Group Grant Program

"In recognition of the important role refuge friends organizations play in building critical community support for the United States Fish and Wildlife Service's National Wildlife Refuge System, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, along with its partners, is requesting grant proposals for projects that help these organizations be effective co-stewards of important natural resources within the National Wildlife Refuge System.
The Friends Group grant program provides competitive seed grants for creative and innovative proposals that aim to increase the number and effectiveness of organizations interested in assisting the refuge system nationwide. The primary purpose of the program is to provide assistance to new and existing friends organizations. For the fall 2012 grant cycle, friends organizations are invited to submit proposals that focus on start-up and capacity-building projects.
Grants will be provided to support proposals that fall within the following areas:
1) Start-up grants — Funds will be provided to assist starting refuge friends organizations with formative and/or initial operational support. For example, funds may be requested for such things as membership drives, tuition for nonprofit training programs, brochure and newsletter development, logo design, office equipment, or consultant fees for planning a mission and strategic plan.
2) Capacity-building grants — Funds will be provided to strengthen the capacity of existing refuge friends organizations. Capacity building refers to projects that enhance an organization's abilities while allowing them to achieve measurable and sustainable results. For example, projects may include outreach programs aimed at increasing organizational capacity to serve the public; business plan development or other strategic planning costs; membership program development; board/ leadership development such as trainings; development of exhibits to expand community outreach efforts; tuition for skill-building training programs; and nature or book store start-up expenses.
Eligible applicants are official refuge friends organizations. Applicants must either be tax-exempt under section 501(c), or be in the process of applying for 501(c)(3) status and submit with their grant application a copy of the letter from the IRS confirming their application has been filed.
Grants will range from $1,500 to $5,000.
The complete Request for Proposals and application instructions are available at the NFWF Web site.

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

" 

Sponsored New Environmental Classrooms for Youth In Domestic Violence Shelters

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the bottom of this blog post for more information]

"Deadline: August 1, 2012

"Mary Kay Foundation Invites Applications for Nature Explore Classrooms to Help Domestic Violence Survivors Heal

"The Mary Kay Foundation and Mary Kay, Inc. have partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation and Dimensions Educational Research Foundation to bring Nature Explore Classrooms to domestic violence shelters.

"Nature Explore Classrooms are outdoor learning spaces designed to include nature in the daily lives and learning of children. Research shows that nature can help soften the impact of life stress on children and help them deal with adversity.

"By the end of 2012, Mary Kay will have sponsored seventeen Nature Explore Classrooms to help child survivors of domestic violence heal from abuse — representing a combined donation and support of nearly $800,000 since the program's inception in 2009.

"Mary Kay is accepting applications to build four new Nature Explore Classrooms at women's shelters in the United States. Shelters that serve survivors of domestic violence and have outdoor space available to accommodate learning stations and equipment are eligible to apply.

"Along with the outdoor area, each classroom includes a multi-faceted curriculum to fully maximize the educational opportunities and healing effects of the outdoor environment. The classroom is funded entirely by Mary Kay and is an investment totaling more than $50,000.

"Visit the Mary Kay Foundation Web site for complete program information and application instructions."

 

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Grants for Nonprofits Providing Local Workforce Development and Education

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this grant opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this blog post for more information].

Deadline: July 2, 2012

Bank of America Charitable Foundation Seeks Grant Proposals From Nonprofits Addressing Local Workforce Development and Education Needs

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation is inviting U.S.-based nonprofit organizations to submit funding proposals for local programs that address the nation's high unemployment rate. The company will invest $15 million in workforce development and educational programs connecting individuals to employment success.

The funding is part of the company's three-year, $50 million commitment announced at the White House last summer to support workforce development and education initiatives leading to economic self-sufficiency through employment.

Bank of America's funding is aimed at creating impact by helping the unemployed and under served, including young people, gain the training and educational opportunities that translate into employment and post secondary success. Funding will support job-training programs such as community college access programs for middle- and high-school students, technical assistance and training for small businesses, and nonprofit programs that connect unemployed workers with available job opportunities.

Applicant organizations must have 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

The workforce development Request for Proposals is an important component in Bank of America's intensifying focus on housing, jobs, and hunger. The company will issue an additional RFP related to hunger later this year.

For complete program information, eligibility quiz, and online application form, visit the Bank of America Web site

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP

Support to Promote Habitat Conservation on Private Land for Landowners Seeking to Optimize Wildlife Habitat Conservation

From The Foundation Center...

[If you are interested in this support opportunity, click "Link to Complete RFP" at the end of this post for more information]

Deadline: June 18, 2012 (Pre-proposals)

Conservation Partners Offers Support to Promote Conservation Programs to Private Landowners

Conservation Partners is a partnership between the United States Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and other regional/initiative-specific partners such as the Walton Family Foundation. The purpose of the program is to provide grants on a competitive basis to field biologists and other habitat conservation professionals (ecologists, foresters, range cons, etc.) working with NRCS field offices to provide technical assistance to farmers, ranchers, foresters, and other private landowners seeking to optimize wildlife habitat conservation on private lands.

Conservation Partners aims to better focus and increase the effectiveness of Farm Bill assistance funded through programs such as the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program, the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, the Conservation Reserve Program, and others. In addition, Conservation Partners will consider funding capacity and outreach for organizations whose mission matches the goals of the program.

During the summer 2012 funding cycle, priority funding will be directed to proposals that target species and ecosystems of shared interest between NFWF and NRCS, including but not limited to Northwest Salmon Rivers, Northern Great Plains, California Sierras and Bay Delta, and Lesser Prairie-Chicken. In addition, grants can be awarded to any region of the country for conservation relating to the Conservation Reserve Program.

Eligible applicants include nonprofit 501(c) organizations, educational institutions, tribal governments, and state or local units of governments (e.g., state conservation agencies, counties, townships, cities, conservation districts, utility districts, drainage districts, etc.). Individuals, federal government agencies, and for-profit firms are not eligible.

Typical grant awards will range from $50,000 to $250,000. Each program priority area is expected to receive between $500,000 and $1,000,000 in funding. Projects will be funded for up to two years. A match of at least 1:1 non-federal cash or in-kind is required, but larger match ratios are encouraged.

For the complete Request for Proposals, application instructions, and archived webinars on the proposal process, visit the NFWF Web site.

Contact:
Link to Complete RFP