Best Buffalo Grants for Nonprofits in New York

Focused on children, education, and health, Costco Foundation invites Buffalo, New York nonprofits to apply for funding that supports youth services, child welfare, and human and social services. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations working in these areas may benefit from this opportunity to strengthen community impact through measurable, collaborative programs.

Focused on youth development and welfare, The Dan Paul Foundation invites Buffalo, New York nonprofits to apply for funding supporting child advocacy, early childhood development, and basic needs programs. Grants may benefit organizations working in education, health, homelessness, or environmental awareness for children and youth in the Buffalo community.

Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation provides Buffalo, New York nonprofits with funding for economic development, workforce preparation, parks, and caregiver support initiatives. Organizations serving Erie County with innovative programs in these areas may be eligible. Nonprofits focused on community improvement and collaboration are especially encouraged to apply.

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.

Western New York Foundation

The Western New York Foundation is a philanthropic organization created to support activities that improve the quality of life for people who live in the seven (7) counties of Western New York. Since 1951, we have had the privilege of partnering with nonprofits to amplify their good work and maximize their impact on the communities they serve. 

Small Grant Program

The Buffalo Bills Foundation and the Western New York Foundation are partnering to offer small grants to organizations working within our local and regional food system. Grants are available to support professional development, consultant support, specialty contract services, or certifications and accreditations that build an organization’s knowledge, skills, and leadership. 

Eligible Uses

Grant funds may be used for:

• Professional Development (trainings, conferences, courses, and related travel)
• Consultant Support (strategic planning, communications, evaluation, and similar services)
• Specialty Contract Services (legal, financial, accounting, or other professional services)
• Certification & Accreditation (costs associated with obtaining or maintaining certifications or accreditations)

Gupta Family Foundation supports social services in Buffalo, New York by providing grants to organizations helping disadvantaged people become self-reliant. Nonprofits addressing issues such as poverty, disability, or disaster relief in Buffalo may be eligible, particularly if they are smaller organizations with strong founder-led missions and a focus on direct beneficiary impact.

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.

With a mission to advance human health, Pew Charitable Trusts provides Buffalo, New York biomedical researchers with flexible funding opportunities. Early-career assistant professors at eligible institutions in Buffalo may be nominated for this prestigious program, which supports innovative biomedical research. Nonprofits with a focus on health and medicine may benefit from this funding.

With a mission to support diverse causes, Hansen Family Foundation provides Buffalo, New York nonprofits with funding opportunities in youth services, education, animal welfare, and the arts. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations in Buffalo working to improve child welfare, promote sustainability, or advance cultural initiatives may be considered for support.

Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo supports arts and culture in Buffalo, New York by offering grants to small and mid-sized nonprofit organizations. Eligible groups must have arts and culture as their core mission and an operating budget under $500,000. Nonprofits in Buffalo focused on creative programming may benefit from this opportunity.

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.

Buffalo, New York nonprofits can access funding through Robinson Foundation for programs in education, animal welfare, veterans’ services, health, and poverty relief. Organizations with 501(c)(3) status serving children, families, or offering humanitarian aid may be eligible. The foundation seeks to create meaningful, tangible impact for local communities.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

Focused on education, environment, and community enrichment, Georgia-Pacific Foundation invites Buffalo, New York nonprofits to apply for support. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and government entities within 30 miles of a Georgia-Pacific facility. Buffalo groups working on community development, education, or environmental projects may benefit from this opportunity.

Buffalo, New York caregiver support organizations can access funding through the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo to enhance resources for caregivers of individuals unable to care for themselves. Nonprofits and government agencies serving Erie County, especially those assisting caregivers of older adults, may be eligible for support such as transportation, volunteer services, and training opportunities.

Focused on cultural enrichment, Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo invites Buffalo, New York nonprofits to apply for support in historic preservation and long-term arts instruction for youth. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations can seek funding for projects that restore historic sites or expand arts access for under-resourced children and communities.

Focused on enhancing outdoor recreation, Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo invites Buffalo, New York nonprofits to apply for funding that supports walkability, bikeability, and improved community access. Eligible projects may include greenways, trails, and recreation corridors, with a preference for sustainable and universally accessible design.

Focused on youth sports, Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo invites Buffalo, New York nonprofits to apply for support that helps children access sports and physical activities. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations serving Erie County can propose projects that encourage free play, sport sampling, and coach training, making sports more accessible to local youth.

Grants from Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo help Buffalo, New York nonprofits strengthen organizational resiliency and pursue strategic alliances. Local 501(c)(3) organizations can apply for funding to support collaborations, mergers, shared services, or dissolution planning that enhance long-term sustainability. This opportunity may benefit nonprofits seeking innovative ways to adapt and serve their communities.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

With a mission to advance equitable growth, National Community Reinvestment Coalition Inc provides Buffalo, New York nonprofits with fellowship opportunities supporting community development, workforce preparation, and affordable housing. Organizations hosting fellows may benefit from innovative talent and training, especially those tackling local economic and housing challenges.

Buffalo, New York students pursuing higher education in chemical or mechanical engineering can access funding through Ashland County Community Foundation. Graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools who plan to attend accredited colleges or universities outside Ashland County, including those in Buffalo, may be eligible for this scholarship opportunity.

Buffalo, New York students interested in vocational and technical education can access funding through Community Foundation of the Ozarks Inc. The Polk County Tech Scholarship provides a renewable $2,000 award for graduating seniors pursuing programs like automotive, construction, or welding at accredited two-year or vocational schools. Nonprofits supporting eligible students may benefit from this opportunity.

Focused on academic scholarships, Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo invites Buffalo, New York students to apply for college and career preparation support. Scholarships are available for permanent residents attending accredited nonprofit schools full-time. Nonprofits serving students in Buffalo may benefit by sharing these opportunities with eligible youth in their programs.

Chick Fil A Foundation Inc supports youth development and community programs in Buffalo, New York by providing annual True Inspiration Awards grants to nonprofits. Organizations working on educational initiatives, food security, housing, or environmental stewardship may be eligible for funding ranging from $30,000 to $350,000 to enhance their impact in local communities.

Grants from National Community Reinvestment Coalition Inc help Buffalo, New York organizations advance community development, affordable housing, workforce readiness, and small business growth. Nonprofits in Buffalo may benefit by serving as host partners for graduate student fellows working on equitable development projects that address local needs in these focus areas.