Best Grants for Community Service Projects in New Mexico

Nonprofits, tribes, public schools, and government agencies in New Mexico can seek funding for community-based initiatives that advance community development and revitalization, education, health, arts, environment, and rural development. With a mission to strengthen New Mexico communities, McCune Charitable Foundation provides support for projects aligned with its nine priority areas and focused on long-term community well-being.

501(c)(3) nonprofits in New Mexico working on basic needs, income creation, stable housing, or community development can apply for Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s Stable Housing and Empowering Communities grants. Funding supports economic mobility and community revitalization for low- and moderate-income residents, which may benefit community service projects serving vulnerable populations.

New Mexico community development and tourism organizations can access funding through the New Mexico Tourism Department to plan and implement sustainable tourism infrastructure projects statewide. Grants up to US $50,000 support ready-to-implement efforts like wayfinding, feasibility and design studies, signage, and other planning work that improves visitor experiences, boosts local economies, and enhances community destinations.

Community development and tourism-focused organizations in New Mexico can seek funding to build or enhance tourism infrastructure, visitor amenities, and destination improvements. Focused on sustainable community development, the New Mexico Tourism Department invites projects that boost visitation, improve resident and visitor experiences, and spur local economic growth with awards from US $5,000 - US $250,000.

Tribal governments in New Mexico seeking funding for community development and public infrastructure projects can apply for the Tribal Infrastructure Fund. Grants from the State of New Mexico IAD help address essential needs like water and wastewater systems, roads, and electrical power lines through competitively scored project proposals reviewed by the Tribal Infrastructure Board.

Local and tribal governments, municipalities, and nonprofits partnering with a public fiscal agent can seek more than US $250,000 for shovel-ready tourism infrastructure projects in New Mexico. With a mission to strengthen sustainable tourism, New Mexico Tourism Department supports large-scale, community-based projects that boost visitation, enhance resident and visitor experiences, and spur local economic growth.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits with established education or health programs can apply for $10,000 - $75,000 from L B Research and Education Foundation to expand proven work, including in New Mexico. Funding supports adolescent through adult education, college success, vocational training, and research-informed physical and mental health initiatives that reduce access and outcome gaps.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with at least three years of operation and a $100,000+ budget can seek funding for workforce preparation, youth development, and community accessibility projects in New Mexico. RBC Foundation USA supports programs building in-demand skills, improving financial stability, and enhancing inclusive community spaces in areas where RBC Wealth Management has a local presence.

New Mexico community development and service nonprofits can access funding through the H Hovnanian Family Foundation for projects in education, public health and emergency response, arts and culture, entrepreneurship, and youth and civic leadership. U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations with at least one year of outcomes may receive up to US $10,000, with rolling quarterly reviews.

New Mexico 501(c)(3) organizations and local government entities can seek funding for community development, food security, education, and agriculture initiatives, including general operations or specific projects. Greenpoint Foundation supports programs that enhance quality of life in local communities and requires impact reports within 6–12 months, with applications accepted year-round.

New Mexico community and economic development organizations working on disaster recovery and preparedness can access funding through the Economic Development Administration’s FY25 Disaster Supplemental program. EDA provides U.S. regions affected by 2023–2024 natural disasters with up to US $50,000,000 for readiness, implementation, or large-scale industry transformation projects that rebuild economies and strengthen long-term community resilience.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on community development and revitalization projects in New Mexico may be eligible for this funding, with a preference for programs in the Greater St. Louis area. Grants from Crawford Taylor Foundation also support related efforts in education, health, food access, housing, parks, environmental stewardship, animal welfare, and humanitarian relief within the U.S.

The Peter Chortek Leadership Award honors Jewish high school students in San Diego who demonstrate outstanding leadership and commitment to community service through tikkun olam. Awardees receive a $9,000 stipend, $540 to set up a Donor Advised Fund, and a professional video showcasing their project. This award encourages students to create or enhance community initiatives, fostering engagement in social justice and service projects.

The U.S. Venture/Schmidt Family Foundation supports initiatives that drive self-sufficiency and community enrichment for vulnerable populations. With over $4.31 million awarded last year, the foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate measurable impact and foster stronger communities. Eligible organizations include those designated as public charities by the IRS. The foundation emphasizes collaboration with other funders, avoiding sole financial support to ensure comprehensive community development.

The Thriving Community Impact Fund offers grants up to $2,499 to support local programs that enhance community health and well-being. This initiative by Gundersen Health emphasizes collaboration, focusing on areas such as physical and mental health, poverty alleviation, and neighborhood improvements. Organizations like non-profits and government agencies can apply for funding during a rolling application period, with decisions made monthly. The fund aims to empower communities and address health inequities through impactful partnerships.

The Ochylski Family Foundation supports registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations through grants aimed at enhancing their operational capacity. With an application deadline of October 1, organizations must submit a detailed request outlining their initiatives. The foundation's mission aligns with its commitment to foster community development and nonprofit effectiveness in Iowa, ensuring that resources are allocated to impactful projects that serve the public good.

The Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grants for Fiscal Year 2025 support revitalization efforts in severely distressed public housing and surrounding neighborhoods. This program encourages collaboration among local governments, housing agencies, and community partners to create comprehensive plans aimed at improving housing quality, promoting upward mobility for residents, and attracting long-term investment for neighborhood development. Successful applicants will implement their Transformation Plans, which were developed through prior Planning Grants to enhance the quality of life for residents.

Melton Foundation

The Melton Foundation is an international 501(c)(3) non-profit organization registered in the USA, and a leading proponent of Global Citizenship education and practice worldwide. Established nearly thirty years ago with the credence that collaborations across boundaries can forge sustainable solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges, today, our programs reach millions of young leaders, having crystallized into a network of over 750 life-long Melton Fellows spread across 40+ countries. Our primary operations are in Chile, China, Germany, Ghana, India, and the United States of America, with legal subsidiaries in Bangalore, India; Jena, Germany; Temuco, Chile; and Accra, Ghana. 

Through our fellowship and collaborative programs we promote and enable global citizenship as a way for individuals and organizations to work together across boundaries of place and identity to solve challenges in an interconnected world.

Melton Foundation Action Grants

The Melton Foundation offers grants year-round to support Melton Fellows in developing skills, perspective and wider networks to further their capacity as global citizens and contribute towards building an equitable, sustainable, and peaceful world.

In almost 10 years of granting, more than 100 Fellows’ initiatives have been awarded with a Melton Foundation grant to

• Build awareness and/or further awareness raising around global issues and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),
• Develop individual and collective responsibility for sustained, collaborative action,
• Grow capacity to collaboratively drive and sustain social impact at the local and/or global level,
• Further the design, implementation and evaluation of collaborative actions that embody the spirit of global citizenship practice and further social impact, or
• Support coordinated social-impact efforts in a particular or across (emerging) Melton Foundation Hub regions to promote global citizenship practice (s) and the organization’s mission.

501(c)(3) public charities running community development, education access, humanitarian, or LDS-aligned programs, including work benefiting New Mexico communities, can seek Strategic Impact Grants for strategic projects. Bertin Family Foundation supports international development, community development, and educational access initiatives, with applications accepted via its Foundant portal in Q3 and funds distributed in Q4.

Nonprofit organizations running community development and financial independence programs in New Mexico can access funding through the St. Marys Bank Charitable Foundation, with awards of US $500 - US $5,000. Projects in areas like youth support, homelessness and housing, social services, veterans, and civic or community initiatives may be eligible.

Nonprofit organizations providing youth, housing, social services, veteran support, or civic and community programs, including those serving New Mexico communities, can apply for St. Marys Bank Charitable Foundation’s community support grants; awards US $500 - US $5,000 for community-focused projects. Applicants should align with the foundation’s impact areas and demonstrate service to individuals and families of modest means.

U.S. nonprofit staff leading community development or revitalization projects can receive $500–$1,000 micro grants for new or expanded components that uplift their communities. Focused on empowering unseen leaders, Enhearten Unseen Leaders invites those serving New Mexico and beyond to propose specific, values-driven projects reflecting humility, integrity, and love.

Nonprofit and community organizations running community development, social services, education, or arts programs in New Mexico and other Andersons operating areas can seek support for events and projects. With a mission to enhance quality of life, Andersons Charitable Foundation provides funding for initiatives that strengthen communities, support families, and promote agricultural and environmental stewardship.

The Ferguson Cares Grant is an essential aspect of Ferguson's Sustainability strategy, focusing on social challenges and community wellbeing. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to affordable housing, skilled trades workforce development, clean water access, and enhancing local economic quality of life. Ferguson aims to create lasting partnerships that drive positive impact within their operational regions, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and community support.

OneRural provides essential technical assistance to rural organizations, fostering the development of affordable housing and community initiatives. This program offers tailored support, helping organizations enhance their operational capabilities and drive impactful change. By accessing expert resources and training, participants can effectively navigate challenges, improve program outcomes, and strengthen community resilience. This initiative targets nonprofits and tribal entities, ensuring that rural communities receive the guidance needed for sustainable growth and development.

BMO Gives is committed to fostering positive societal impact through community support and charitable initiatives. It focuses on enhancing community and economic resilience, as well as environmental sustainability. Eligible applicants must be registered charities or non-profits operating in Canada or the U.S. and align with BMO's corporate values, which promote inclusivity and non-discrimination. The program aims to support projects that address significant societal needs and empower local communities.

The New Mexico Economic Development Grant, provided by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, aims to foster economic growth by supporting projects that enhance the tax base and create quality jobs in the region. It encourages private businesses to demonstrate their stability and potential for impact, aligning with the foundation's mission to connect community resources and promote prosperity across counties like Doña Ana and Luna.