Best Grants for Charities in Massachusetts

Arts and Creativity Program

The arts are essential for just, vibrant, and thriving communities. The power of creativity is a force for transformation, creating vitality and amplifying the voices of those who are often unheard.

Arts organizations, artists, creative workers, culture bearers (those who practice, share, and teach cultural traditions and art forms) help us envision and realize a shared future of equity, inclusion, and belonging.

Barr’s Arts + Creativity program seeks to invest in bold ideas and leaders, driving toward a future in which the arts are a living, breathing force, constantly evolving and igniting our collective imagination.

Arts & Creativity Strategies

To achieve our goal of elevating the arts and enabling creative expression to engage and inspire a dynamic, thriving Massachusetts, we pursue three strategies:

• Elevating Arts Leadership
• Cultivating Spaces of Belonging
• Advocating for the Arts

The Barr Foundation's Climate Grants program is committed to addressing climate change through equitable solutions that prioritize communities impacted by environmental injustices. With a focus on clean energy, mobility, and resilience, the program aims to foster an inclusive movement that supports diverse voices and builds capacity among organizations led by people of color. The initiative emphasizes collaboration and innovative strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare communities for climate impacts.

Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts

The Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts, a non-profit public charity, is the leading community foundation in the region, managing charitable funds established by individuals, families, businesses and other non-profit organizations.

Career Readiness and Educational Access

This grant program focuses on preparing local residents for family-supporting jobs through career-related training, post-secondary education and other educational initiatives.

Objective: Advance the economic wellness of residents of North Central Massachusetts by increasing their access to education and effective career development initiatives.

Priority: During this funding cycle, priority will be given to programs that equip residents for family-sustaining employment, including vocational training and pathways to college

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

The Humane Society of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Grant supports 501(c)(3) public charities focused on preventing accidents and injuries on the water. Eligible organizations can apply for grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 for projects related to public education, community services, and health sciences research. The foundation particularly values initiatives that enhance safety and survivability in maritime environments, making a significant impact on coastal communities.

The McKeen Fund Grant is dedicated to enhancing the lives of vulnerable populations, including seniors and disadvantaged children and families. This private fund supports medical, educational, and social service programs, prioritizing initiatives that cannot secure outside funding. The Fund emphasizes grants for capital projects and specific programs aligned with its mission, while also engaging in direct charitable activities. Organizations eligible must be 501(c)(3) public charities, primarily in Florida, Massachusetts, and New York.

The Amgen Foundation Inc focuses on non-healthcare donations and sponsorships that target humanitarian, social, educational, and community programs. They offer support to organizations outside the U.S. healthcare community, particularly those recognized as tax-exempt public charities. Eligible organizations must serve specific Amgen communities throughout the U.S. This initiative aims to enhance health outcomes and address critical societal needs, thereby reducing the burden of disease and improving lives.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

The Abbot & Dorothy H. Stevens Foundation Grant supports initiatives that enhance the quality of life in Lawrence, Massachusetts, and nearby areas. The foundation prioritizes education, healthcare, housing, and the arts through project funding, typically ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. Eligible applicants must be Massachusetts charitable corporations with IRS tax-exempt status. The foundation values community collaboration and is open to pilot projects and capital funding for enhancements.

The Mabel Louise Riley Foundation provides grants to support low-income children and youth in Boston. With a focus on education, human services, and neighborhood revitalization, the foundation funds projects that demonstrate sustainability and community impact. Grants typically range from $50,000 to $100,000 and are available to Massachusetts-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Exclusions include multi-year support and unrestricted operating funds. The foundation aims to enhance the lives of vulnerable families through targeted assistance.

The Amelia Peabody Foundation Grant aims to enhance educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth in Massachusetts. This private foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations, focusing on projects that promote leadership and community engagement. Grants can apply to new or existing programs, capital acquisitions, and facility improvements. The Foundation particularly favors initiatives outside Boston, encouraging replication of successful programs in other areas, and prioritizes organizations that employ community members.

The Andrade-Faxon Charities for Children Grant supports programs directly benefiting at-risk children aged 18 and under. Funded by professional golfers, it prioritizes charitable initiatives in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts, providing grants for essential items like food, playground equipment, and educational supplies. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and are limited to one funding request annually. Exclusions include capital campaigns and operating reserves, ensuring funds directly enhance children's welfare.

The Community Enrichment Grant, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts, aims to enhance community vitality through support for local arts, culture, civic engagement, and development projects. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $15,000, with a focus on fostering inclusive relationships among residents and organizations. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, while individuals and for-profit entities are ineligible. This initiative seeks to create impactful and measurable community improvements.

The McCarthy Family Foundation Charity Fund, established in 1956, focuses on supporting nonprofits in Massachusetts, particularly those addressing education, food, health, and housing needs. Grants may cover general operating expenses, program support, or specific capital improvements. The fund prioritizes organizations located north of Boston and may consider emergency grant requests. However, it does not fund endowment campaigns or sponsor fundraising events such as galas.

The Mabel Louise Riley Foundation's Small Grants Fund aims to support projects that enhance family life in the Greater Dudley area. Grants range from $500 to $5,000 and prioritize initiatives that foster community engagement, strengthen family connections, and improve neighborhood well-being. Eligible applicants include resident volunteers and local groups, while nonprofit status is not mandatory. The foundation emphasizes activities that promote social cohesion and personal development, ensuring that funds contribute to meaningful community benefits.

The Rockland Trust Charitable Foundation focuses on enhancing community well-being through grants that prioritize low-to-moderate income populations. Key funding areas include affordable housing, children and youth programs, financial education, workforce development, and small business support. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities located in Massachusetts or Rhode Island. Funding is directed towards initiatives that promote safety, education, and economic opportunity, ensuring a positive impact on the communities served.

The Hamilton Company Charitable Foundation

 The Hamilton Company Charitable Foundation was formed in 2011 by Harold Brown. Its goal is to provide support for local 501c3 organizations which serve the community. Annual funding ranges between $250,000 and over $1,000,000. The chairman is Ronald Brown. Other board members: Jameson Brown, Maura Nolan Brown, Harley Brown, Fred Lebow & Andrea Kozinetz.

Grants

The Hamilton Company Charitable Foundation funds a wide variety of charities, including those that engage in medical and scientific research and deliver medical services and those that provide educational, artistic/musical, and recreational activities for underserved youths. The Foundation also finances scholarships for qualified applicants, aid to those experiencing homelessness, capital renovations or new construction, and animal hospitals and shelters.

Past and current charities supported include but are not limited to the West End House, Franciscan Children’s Hospital, the Coolidge Corner Theatre Foundation, and the Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology.

Efficient use of administrative costs relative to benefits received by individuals is considered, and we fund specific projects, not operational costs. 

As of January 1, 2026, the Hamilton Company Charitable Foundation’s annual funding is in excess of $4 million per year. There is one application for requests over $1000. A very brief summary application is required for requests up to $1,000.

These grants may provide educational, recreational, and other services to urban and suburban youth. Funds are also available for arts and culture by way of museums, other learning opportunities. Funds may be directed as assistance to people in need such as supplying care for families, food.

The Lloyd G. Balfour Foundation, established in 1973, focuses on educational support for underserved populations in New England. It offers scholarships for employees of the Balfour Company and their families, as well as funding for organizations that provide educational services in Attleboro and surrounding areas. The Foundation prioritizes programs aimed at college readiness and success, particularly for first-generation and low-income students, and encourages multi-year funding requests to enhance nonprofit sustainability.

The E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation, established in 1975, provides community health nursing grants to public charities in Worcester, Richmond, and Philadelphia. Focused on projects that foster direct relationships with the Carpenters, the foundation supports initiatives that enhance community health. Eligible organizations must be pre-selected by the Foundation Board, ensuring targeted impact. Notably, requests for funding private education or large charities are generally not considered, maintaining the foundation's commitment to local community health.

The John W. Boynton Fund provides grants to support charitable organizations that assist needy residents, particularly older adults in the Athol area. Established in 1952, the fund focuses on programs that benefit low-income individuals and values general operating support. Typical grants range from $10,000 to $25,000, with a preference for new or special initiatives and capital projects. Notably, requests from individuals or those aiming to influence policy are not considered.

The David, Helen and Marian Woodward Fund (Watertown) provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in New York and New England. Established in 1974 by Marian Woodward Ottley, the fund aims to fulfill her vision of improving the world for future generations. The fund prioritizes arts, education, health, and human services, with a historical preference for Connecticut organizations. It also considers the religious affiliations of applicants, reflecting Mrs. Ottley's charitable legacy.

The Lloyd G. Balfour Foundation, established in 1973, provides grants primarily to educational organizations and charities serving the underserved populations of Attleboro, Massachusetts. The Foundation prioritizes applications that support education, healthcare, and human services. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) public charities, municipalities, and religious organizations. The Foundation encourages multi-year funding requests and considers capital grants on a case-by-case basis, focusing on improving community well-being and educational outcomes in the region.

The Quest Diagnostics Foundation is funding Priority Community Programs in Suffolk County, Massachusetts, aimed at improving health outcomes through coalition-driven solutions. This initiative focuses on chronic cardiometabolic conditions and maternal/child health, encouraging multi-sector collaborations and alignment with Community Health Needs Assessments. The foundation offers funding ranging from $100,000 to $1,000,000 annually for 1 to 2 years, seeking applicants that demonstrate robust community partnerships and effective use of diagnostic resources.

The Creative Experiences Grants, launched by the Mass Cultural Council, aim to enhance cultural engagement through diverse activities in arts, humanities, and sciences. With funding amounts of $2,500 and $5,000, these grants support projects that promote public participation and accessibility from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, government entities, and educational institutions, ensuring that cultural experiences are available to all members of the community.

The Alfred E. Chase Charity Foundation Grant supports quality educational, human services, and healthcare initiatives for underserved populations, particularly in Lynn and the North Shore of Massachusetts. Established in 1956, it encourages requests for both general operating and program support, with small capital expenses considered. Grants typically last one year, with occasional multi-year funding available. This foundation prioritizes charitable organizations that directly benefit local communities.

The George W. Wells Foundation Grant supports quality educational, human services, and healthcare programs for underserved populations. Established in 1934, it primarily funds one-year grants, with occasional multi-year support. Eligible applicants include IRS-qualified 501(c)(3) public charities, particularly those serving Southbridge, Massachusetts. The Foundation encourages requests for both general operating and program support, allowing for small, program-related capital expenses to be included.