Best Grants for Environmental Projects in Alaska

Nonprofit organizations engaged in Alaska hardrock mining advocacy can receive US $5,000 - US $20,000 to prevent or reduce mining impacts and strengthen protections in Alaska. Alaska Conservation Foundation provides Alaska environmental groups with funding for legal support, scientific or technical assistance, coalition convenings, advocacy, communications, and related administrative costs tied to mining impact prevention efforts.

Nonprofit and government organizations working on environmental and community programs in Alaska can seek invitation-only Community Investment Grants supporting workforce development, sustainability, and thriving communities. With a mission to strengthen communities, Marathon Petroleum Corporation / Marathon Petroleum Foundation provides funding across its marketing area, with preference for regions where it has significant operations and measurable local impact.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

U.S. 501(c)(3) cultural institutions with audited expenses over $2 million can seek more than US $100,000 to support arts and science programming, capital needs, or limited general and endowment support. William Randolph Hearst Foundation prioritizes artist development, arts education, and STEAM-focused science programs, which may benefit Alaska organizations running environmental or STEAM education initiatives.

Nonprofit organizations providing health, education, or community services, including those in Alaska, can apply for funding from Labcorp Charitable Foundation. Focus areas include food pantries, healthcare for underserved populations, STEM programming, and healthy lifestyle initiatives. Environmental groups with related community health or education projects may be eligible if they meet these priorities.

Environmental and marine research organizations in Alaska can seek funding to study fisheries and marine ecosystems in the Gulf of Alaska, Bering Sea, Aleutian Islands, and Arctic. Focused on marine ecosystem science and fishery management, the North Pacific Research Board invites projects that improve understanding and support sustainable use of marine resources.

Alaska nonprofits engaged in conservation advocacy with urgent, Alaska-based projects can access funding through Alaska Conservation Foundation to address unforeseen environmental opportunities or threats. Grants up to US $15,000 support rapid-response efforts that reduce destructive activities, strengthen environmental laws and enforcement, and promote more sustainable economic development across Alaska.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

Local governments, tribes, citizen groups, and educational institutions in Alaska can apply for Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation’s Alaska Clean Water Actions grants; awards up to US $250,000 for projects addressing water quality issues and nonpoint source pollution. Environmental projects involving watershed planning or green infrastructure for stormwater management may be especially competitive.

Nonprofit and public entities developing or repairing recreational trails in Alaska can seek up to US $300,000 in reimbursable funding, including environmental protection and safety or education efforts. With a mission to enhance outdoor recreation, Alaska Division of Parks & Outdoor Recreation provides 90/10 federal matching funds for motorized, non-motorized, and diversified trail projects statewide.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3)s, eligible tribal entities, and select government institutions in Alaska seeking capital funding for construction, renovation, or property purchase can apply for M J Murdock Charitable Trust’s Strategic Projects: Capital Grants, with awards of more than US $50,000. Organizations advancing environmental stewardship or related fields may be especially competitive if they already have significant project funding committed.

Alaska environmental and conservation nonprofits needing new equipment or technology infrastructure can access funding through the M J Murdock Charitable Trust; awards are typically more than US $50,000 and require at least a 50% match. Eligible 501(c)(3)s, tribal entities, and select government institutions must propose capacity-building projects that fit the Trust’s focus areas and benefit the Pacific Northwest region.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3)s, tribal entities, and select government institutions expanding environmental or conservation programs in Alaska can seek Strategic Project: Program & Staff Grants to add staff, launch, or grow initiatives. Grants from M J Murdock Charitable Trust, typically over US $50,000, prioritize capacity-building projects that advance environmental stewardship and related community impact in the Pacific Northwest region.

The Cowles Charitable Trust Grant supports initiatives aligned with the philanthropic legacy of Gardner Cowles, Jr. Focused on education, social justice, health, and the arts, it favors organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) by the IRS. The Trust encourages applications for general operating support and seeks partnerships rather than being the sole funder. Notably, it considers applications from established partners and supports efforts in Downstate New York and South Florida, with a preference for diverse funding sources.

Public or private nonprofit research institutions and degree-granting universities in Alaska and across the U.S. and Canada can seek Burroughs Wellcome Fund support for maternal and perinatal health research, including environmental impacts on pregnancy. This program offers up to US $500,000 for basic or translational studies on adverse pregnancy outcomes and related health disparities.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

Environmental and conservation-focused 501(c)(3) organizations in Alaska can seek project funding, with awards ranging from US $5,000 - US $25,000. Grants from Dr Scholl Foundation help support work in environment alongside education, social services, health care, civic, and cultural initiatives, primarily for U.S. applicants with at least three years of financial activity.

Environmental and marine researchers in Alaska can seek funding for one- to two-year projects that advance knowledge on coastal and marine issues. Focused on healthy coastal ecosystems, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, resilient communities and economies, and environmental literacy, Alaska Sea Grant invites proposals of more than US $100,000 aligned with its 2024–2027 strategic plan.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits with budgets under $1 million working on environmental, sustainability, or related humanitarian projects in Alaska can apply for Hansen Family Foundation grants of US $1,000 - US $10,000. Funding may support environmental preservation, pollution and contamination issues, environmental justice, and related education or basic human needs initiatives that reflect life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

Alaska environmental and coastal organizations can receive support to remove marine debris from shorelines and coastal waters in Alaska. Alaska Sea Grant provides Alaska communities with small grants up to Up to US $200,000 to lead debris cleanup projects that address conservation, food safety, and food security concerns tied to plastics and other marine waste.

Eligible public and private partners working on land conservation and environmental resilience near military installations in Alaska can apply for the Department of Defense’s REPI Challenge, with awards up to US $20,000,000. This national program funds projects that prevent land use conflicts, alleviate environmental restrictions, and enhance installation resilience, including in Pacific-region missions.

Alaska environmental nonprofits can access funding through Weeden Foundation for biodiversity protection and related environmental initiatives; awards range from US $10,000 - US $30,000. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations and international equivalents may propose projects such as land and habitat conservation, wildlife corridor protection, marine and bird conservation, environmental education, and sustainable consumption or population programs.