Best Chautauqua County Grants for Nonprofits in New York

The Gebbie Foundation Grant aims to revitalize downtown Jamestown through strategic economic development initiatives, guided by the Jamestown Urban Design Plan. With funding for fiscal year 2025 being limited, applicants must submit a 1-2 page Letter of Inquiry. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and focus on enhancing the downtown area. The foundation supports matching, challenge, and operating funds to foster community revitalization efforts.

The Hultquist Foundation Grant offers funding between $5,000 and $300,000, with an average award of $45,000, aimed at supporting 501(c)(3) organizations in Southern Chautauqua County. The total annual funding available is approximately $800,000. Applicants must submit a written paper application, as online applications are not accepted. First-time applicants are required to provide a copy of their IRS determination letter confirming their 501(c)(3) status.

The Jessie Smith Darrah Fund is dedicated to supporting charitable, educational, and social initiatives primarily in Chautauqua County. With a funding range of $1,000 to $200,000, the fund prioritizes organizations like the First Methodist Church of Jamestown and the YMCA. Eligible applicants must hold 501(c)(3) status, promoting human welfare and good citizenship through various community projects.

The Lenna Foundation provides grants to charitable organizations, primarily in the southwestern New York area. They focus on arts, education, healthcare, youth, economic development, and environmental initiatives. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations. The foundation emphasizes program funding and capital project grants to support non-profit efforts that benefit the community, particularly in the greater Jamestown area.

The United Way of Southern Chautauqua County Grant offers funding extensions for existing programs through June 2025, focusing on community improvement. Established in 1920, this organization partners with various sectors to enhance quality of life. Their mission mobilizes resources to support individuals and families, aiming for academic success, health independence, and workforce readiness. Grants range from $1,500 to $116,000, with a minimum request of $7,500 for the 2022-2024 cycle. Eligibility is limited to registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits.

The Holmberg Foundation Grant supports educational, charitable, and religious needs for economically disadvantaged individuals. This private foundation aims to empower those with the potential to succeed in college but lacking financial means. Key funding focuses include support for charitable organizations, scientific initiatives, and educational institutions like JCC and SUNY Fredonia, making a positive impact in the community.

The ARISE Grants, offered by the Appalachian Regional Commission, aim to drive regional economic transformation across 13 Appalachian states. With funding of up to $63.5 million for implementation grants and $10 million maximum awards, the initiative supports collaborative projects that enhance community capacity and economic growth. The program encourages innovative partnerships to strengthen local economies and achieve socioeconomic parity, benefiting over 26 million residents in the Appalachian Region.

The Josephine Goodyear Foundation, established in 1912, provides approximately 50 grants annually totaling around $300,000 to support non-profit agencies assisting indigent women and children, primarily in the Greater Buffalo area. Applications are accepted from tax-exempt organizations with specific deadlines. The foundation's mission has expanded beyond medical facilities to address broader needs, ensuring vital support for vulnerable populations.

Joel Ayite Ajavon Memorial Scholarship

The Scholarship was established by friends and family to honor the life of Joel Ayite Ajavon who left this world far too early. To be awarded to graduating high school seniors with a primary interest in studying science, technology, engineering, math, nursing, or trades at a two-year community college in Western New York.

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $4,000; may be split between two recipients. Award paid in one lump sum in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters. Minimum award $2,000.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

The Project Play WNY Winter Free Play Series Grant aims to provide youth across all eight counties of Western New York with opportunities for fun and engaging play activities in 2026. This grant supports local organizations, including non-profits and schools, that serve children aged 5-14, encouraging community involvement and healthy recreation.

The DFT Communications - Robert Maytum Memorial Golf Tournament Community Betterment Fund Grant supports community initiatives with a focus on innovative solutions and collaboration. Priority is given to projects that demonstrate significant impact and address unmet needs. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status, as individuals and political entities are not eligible. Funding is restricted for annual appeals, operating expenses, and travel costs, emphasizing effective resource utilization and community engagement.

The WNY Forward Fund: Strategic Alliances & Nonprofit Resiliency Grant aims to support local nonprofits in Western New York as they pursue partnerships and innovative collaborations. Grants ranging from $2,500 to $25,000 will assist organizations in adapting to funding shifts and enhancing community resilience. This multi-year initiative focuses on strategic alliances, civic health, and impactful storytelling, fostering long-term sustainability and responsive service delivery in the nonprofit sector.

The Margaret L. Wendt Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in the Western New York area. Established in 1956, it supports diverse charitable purposes and encourages applications from various sectors, including religious, educational, and scientific organizations. The Foundation reviews applications quarterly, with a requirement for a three-year waiting period for reapplicants. For inquiries, contact their office directly at (716) 855-2146 or via email.

Lake Shore Savings Community Reinvestment Grants aim to support local non-profit organizations by funding vital programs and services. With a commitment to 'Putting People First,' the bank prioritizes projects that benefit low to moderate-income populations and demonstrate significant community impact. Eligible organizations must hold 501(c)(3) status and directly serve Chautauqua and Erie Counties. The grant seeks to empower communities through innovative solutions, volunteer participation, and financial education.

The Ripley Community & Heritage Fund Grant aims to enhance the lives of Ripley residents through support for not-for-profit organizations. The grant prioritizes volunteer-led initiatives, historical preservation, and projects that yield measurable outcomes, while fostering collaboration among community groups. Eligible organizations must be certified not-for-profits or sponsored by fiscal agents, with projects benefiting the Ripley community. Applications are limited to one per grant cycle, ensuring focused support for impactful endeavors.

The Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation is offering Service Learning Mini-Grants aimed at Middle and High School teachers in northern Chautauqua County. These grants support projects that integrate community service with educational experiences, fostering civic responsibility among students. Eligible projects must include both a community service and a learning component, with funding available for various resources such as materials and technology. This initiative promotes local philanthropy and community development.

The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation offers CRCF General Grants aimed at enhancing community welfare through flexible funding for emerging needs and one-time costs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations serving Southern Chautauqua County, with a focus on mission alignment and broad impact. This bi-monthly grant process facilitates support for program enhancements, capital improvements, and technology upgrades, ensuring that community needs are met effectively.

The CRCF Community Impact Grants support nonprofits and organizations in Southern Chautauqua County, fostering significant community development. With over $1.5 million awarded annually, these grants focus on programming and capital improvement projects that address local needs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and faith-based entities, encouraging diverse initiatives that benefit the broader community. This partnership aims to ignite positive change and create a lasting legacy of impact within the region.

The East Hill Foundation, a private family foundation, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in Western New York through grants to 501(c)(3) organizations. Established from the Greatbatch family's legacy, it supports projects addressing basic human needs, such as food, clothing, and shelter. The foundation prioritizes community giving across eight counties including Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Erie, aiming to uplift those less fortunate in the region.

The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds: Caregivers supports underserved caregivers, including family and paid professionals, in Western New York. Established by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, the initiative aims to enhance resources such as transportation assistance and training opportunities. The foundation prioritizes grants that foster impactful support for older adults, ensuring that local organizations can effectively address community needs and innovate sustainable solutions for caregivers.

The LGBT Fund, managed by the Erie Community Foundation, aims to empower the LGBTQ+ community in the greater Erie region through impactful proposals. With a focus on equity and inclusion, the fund supports initiatives addressing youth homelessness, mental health, and safe environments. Grants of up to $7,500 are available for registered 501(c)3 organizations or their partners, fostering innovative solutions that promote well-being and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds: Design and Access Grant aims to enhance community access to spaces and programs supporting healthy living in Western New York. Managed by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, this grant focuses on projects that improve walkability, bikeability, and the overall recreational landscape. Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits can apply for funding to support pre-planning, development, or construction costs, fostering sustainable community enhancements.

The Patrick Shinners Memorial Team Player Scholarship, managed by the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation, provides financial support to student-athletes in Cattaraugus and Chautauqua counties who exemplify teamwork and dedication in football. Established in memory of Patrick Shinners, this scholarship honors those who contribute positively to their teams, regardless of individual accolades. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors with a commitment to community involvement and team spirit, encouraging all athletes, including those entering the Armed Forces or technical trades.

The Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative aims to revitalize communities impacted by coal industry transitions. This initiative provides funding for projects that diversify local economies, enhance job training, and create new employment opportunities. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, the POWER Initiative supports strategic investments that align with regional economic development plans, ensuring a more resilient future for coal-affected areas.

The F26AS00084 Aquatic Invasive Species Grants to Great Lakes Tribes, funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support the development and implementation of Tribal Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plans. Eligible Great Lakes tribes can apply for competitive grants to address invasive species issues within the Great Lakes Basin, including outreach and prevention efforts. This initiative focuses on early detection and control, significantly contributing to the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

The M&T Charitable Foundation Grants provide essential support to a variety of organizations focused on enhancing community well-being. With a mission rooted in corporate responsibility, the foundation prioritizes partnerships with 501(c)(3) organizations in sectors such as arts, health, education, and human services. By investing in local initiatives, the foundation aims to create healthier communities and improve the quality of life for all stakeholders involved.