Grant Opportunities
The Community Foundation of New Jersey is pleased to share grant opportunities for area non-profit organizations. This list will be updated as opportunities open and close.
With questions about these opportunities, contact our grants team.
Aaron Turner, Chief Philanthropic Officer | Madeline Rivera, Program Officer | Nalune Francois, Program Officer | Lydia Gracey, Philanthropic Services Program Coordinator
Grant Opportunities
Mercer County Community Grant
The Mercer County Community Grant welcomes proposals from nonprofit organizations addressing a wide range of community needs and priorities. While projects from all areas will be considered, priority will be given to initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, both in leadership and service delivery.
Key focus areas for funding consideration include, but are not limited to:
- Programs and Services: Support for initiatives that directly benefit underserved populations, including education, healthcare, housing, food security, employment, and youth development.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Funding for collaborative projects and partnerships between nonprofit organizations, community groups, government agencies, and other stakeholders to maximize impact and address systemic issues affecting underserved populations.
- General Operating Support: Funding to continue supporting the mission of the nonprofits.
Grant Amount: Up to $10,000 per organization.
Eligibility: Nonprofit organizations with less than $1,000,000 operating budget serving Mercer County are encouraged to apply. Nonprofits with larger operating budgets may apply at your discretion.
Application Deadline: April 15- May 31. Grants will be awarded by July 31.
Monmouth County Community Grant
The Monmouth County Community Grant welcomes proposals from nonprofit organizations addressing a wide range of community needs and priorities. While projects from all areas will be considered, priority will be given to initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, both in leadership and service delivery.
Key focus areas for funding consideration include, but are not limited to:
- Programs and Services: Support for initiatives that directly benefit underserved populations, including education, healthcare, housing, food security, employment, and youth development.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Funding for collaborative projects and partnerships between nonprofit organizations, community groups, government agencies, and other stakeholders to maximize impact and address systemic issues affecting underserved populations.
- General Operating Support: Funding to continue supporting the mission of the nonprofits.
Grant Amount: Up to $10,000 per organization.
Eligibility: Nonprofit organizations with less than $1,000,000 operating budget serving Monmouth County are encouraged to apply. Nonprofits with larger operating budgets may apply at your discretion.
Application Deadline: April 15- May 31. Grants will be awarded by July 31.
Fund for a Just and Equitable Morris County
The Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation has established the “Fund for a Just and Equitable Morris County” at CFNJ. The Fund will provide support to organizations in the county working towards the overall vibrancy of the region, prioritizing nonprofit organizations that intentionally serve and support historically underrepresented communities in Morris County.
This new Fund in Morris County will be launched in 2024 as the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation celebrates 50 years of impact as a Foundation. Their goal is to continue to honor the legacy of the Foundation’s benefactor, Mrs. Geraldine R. Dodge, and the Foundation’s long-term commitment to the Morristown area.
Applications will be accepted February 19 through March 15, 2024.
Somerset Hills Community Health Foundation
The Somerset Hills Community Health Foundation (SHCHF) seeks to fund projects and programs that promote healthier individuals and communities in Morris and Somerset counties in New Jersey.
Grants are awarded to organizations whose proposals address one or more of the following Foundation priorities:
- Enable access to health care
- Provide resources for restoration and maintenance of health (physical, mental & social wellbeing)
- Foster independent living at an appropriate level based on the individual’s health situation
- Support programs promoting health and wellness
- Support healthcare worker availability and employment
- Promote education and training programs
- Support programs for workers entering into home care (educational costs, child care, transportation, living stipends)
SHCHF currently has two grant cycles and accepts applications twice a year on October 31st for review in November and January 31st for review in February.
SHCHF is not currently accepting grant applications. Please check back next Fall for information on our next grant cycle.
Please note, SHCHF is committed to promoting healthy individuals and communities in Morris and Somerset counties in New Jersey. To that end, we exclusively fund programs that serve Morris and Somerset counties in New Jersey. If your program serves multiple counties, we request that you have the capacity to carve out and specifically track the services you provide in these two counties. If you do not currently have that capacity, we respectfully request that you seek other sources of funding.
Organizations interested in submitting a proposal for consideration may contact Lydia Gracey at lgracey@cfnj.org.
Please find more information on SHCHF’s website.
RSI Foundation
Created from the merger between Columbia Bank and RSI Bank in 2022, the RSI Foundation’s purpose is to continue the tradition of community giving that was critical to RSI Bank.
RSI Foundation works together with Columbia Bank, Columbia Bank Foundation, community organizations and other charitable foundations to make a difference in the communities formerly served by RSI Bank.
Our philanthropic work is based in two areas of focus:
- Partnering with marginalized populations. We partner with groups helping those who may be unable to meet their basic needs due to physical, mental, economic, or social circumstances or constraints.
- Improving neighborhood quality of life. We support organizations, projects and initiatives that contribute to the health, happiness and well-being of people who live within the community.
Grant Eligibility Criteria:
- Applicant organization is a tax-exempt charitable organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, government agency, or religious institution
- Applicant organization is in good standing with the IRS Applicant organization has been in operation for at least one year
- Applicant organization demonstrates a need for private financial support
- Program or project demonstrates impact in the Foundation’s geographic area of focus (Rahway, NJ and/or the surrounding communities in Union and Middlesex Counties)
- Program or project has direct relevance to the Foundation’s areas of focus (see Our Focus Areas on our website)
Grant awards typically range between $2,500 – $25,000. Larger or smaller grant amounts may be considered by the Board but limited based on available funding. If you have any questions about this program, please contact Lydia Gracey at lgracey@cfnj.org.
RSI Foundation is not currently accepting grant applications. Please check back next year for information on our next grant cycle.
Please find more information on RSI’s website.
Great Companions Fund
This application is open to non-profit organizations that support companion animals. Companion animals are animals who share our homes and lives and who have a close daily relationship with us. This primarily includes dogs, cats, and horses, but we will consider grant applications for other animals on a case-by-case basis. This year we awarded 14 grants ranging from $2,000-$5,00, and we anticipate awarding a similar number next year. Larger grant requests will be considered at the discretion of the grant review team. If you have any questions about this program, please contact Lydia Gracey at lgracey@cfnj.org.
The Great Companions fund typically accepts applications for grant requests from mid-July to mid-August. Please check back next summer for information on our next grant cycle.
Please find more information on the Great Companion Fund’s website.
Rose Anthony Howard and Elizabeth V. Brinley Next Generation Grant
This grant opportunity is aimed at supporting small to midsize nonprofit organizations in New Jersey dedicated to providing vital services to children with a focus on uplifting children’s lives, fostering growth, and creating opportunities for a brighter future. While all services geared towards the betterment of underserved youth are welcome, including mentorship, recreational opportunities, etc., we particularly encourage educational programs to apply. One to three grant awards will range between $5,000 – $15,000.
Applications will be accepted April 5, 2024 through May 17, 2024.
A. Van Deusen Young Artist and Musicians Grant
The A. Van Deusen Young Artist and Musicians Grant aims to support nonprofit organizations dedicated to fostering growth and inspiration in young artists and musicians across the state, providing the resources, mentorship, and opportunities for artistic expression, helping to cultivate the next generation of creative talent in New Jersey. One to four grant awards will range between $5,000 – $25,000.
Applications will be accepted April 5, 2024 through May 17, 2024.
Dixon Community Theatre Support Grant
The Dixon Community Theatre Support Grant is designed to provide financial assistance to small theatre companies operating within the state of New Jersey. Recognizing the vibrant cultural landscape and the invaluable contributions of local theatre to communities, this grant aims to support the sustainability and growth of small theatre organizations. One to two grant awards will range between $5,000 – $10,000.
Applications will be accepted April 5, 2024 through May 17, 2024.
Essex County Empowering Communities Grant
The Essex County Empowering Communities Grant will support a grassroots initiative led by a community-based organization. This grant aims to provide financial assistance to projects that enhance the well-being, resilience, and inclusivity of an Essex County community. We recognize the vital role that these organizations play in fostering positive change and we are committed to supporting their efforts through this funding opportunity. One to two grant awards will range from $2,500 to $5,000. Geographical Focus: Projects must serve communities within Essex County with special consideration for the Oranges and Irvington.
Applications will be accepted April 5, 2024 through May 17, 2024.
Svetlana Stalin Welcome to New Jersey Grant
Inspired by her own immigration journey, this grant opportunity is designed to provide support to recent immigrants in adjusting to life in New Jersey, including providing essential services and resources to help newcomers navigate the challenges of settling into their new homes and communities. Key focus areas for funding consideration include: language acquisition and literacy, cultural orientation and integration, legal assistance and immigration services, social services and support networks, employment readiness and economic empowerment. One to three grant awards will range from $5,000 to $15,000.
Applications will be accepted April 5, 2024 through May 17, 2024.
Church in Radburn Christian Values Grant
This grant opportunity seeks to support organizations that embody Christian principles in making a positive impact on communities while upholding the values of compassion, service, and love. Grant priority areas include projects and initiatives in Bergen and Passaic Counties fostering: — spiritual growth and community engagement: providing pastoral care and outreach support to marginalized and vulnerable populations– social justice and advocacy: engaging in advocacy efforts, community organizing, and social justice initiatives that align with the values of compassion, equality, and solidarity. Two to five grant awards will range from $15,000 – $50,000.
Applications will be accepted April 5, 2024 through May 17, 2024.
The Passaic County Children’s Support Grant
The Passaic County Children’s Support Grant is dedicated to providing financial assistance to nonprofit organizations within Passaic County that are committed to serving abused or homeless children. Grant focus areas include emergency shelter and housing services, trauma-informed care and counseling, management and advocacy, educational support and enrichment, and basic needs assistance, including food, clothing, hygiene supplies, and transportation assistance to homeless or at-risk children and their families. One to five grant awards will range between $5,000 – $25,000.
Applications will be accepted April 5, 2024 through May 17, 2024.
St. Clare’s Healthcare Delivery Grant
Focused on improving healthcare delivery and accessibility in Morris County, this grant seeks to support initiatives that address gaps in healthcare access, enhance healthcare infrastructure, and improve health outcomes for residents in these counties. One to two grant awards will range from $20,000 – $45,000
Applications will be accepted July 1, 2024- August 16, 2024.
St. Clare’s Cancer Support Services Grant
The St. Clare’s Cancer Support Services Grant for Sussex and Morris Counties is designed to provide funding to organizations dedicated to supporting general cancer programs and services in these regions. This grant aims to improve the quality of life for cancer patients, survivors, and their families by enhancing access to essential services, resources, and support programs. One award of $10,000
Applications will be accepted July 1, 2024- August 16, 2024.
St. Clare’s Children’s Behavioral Health Fund
The St. Clare’s Children’s Behavioral Health Fund seeks to support children’s behavioral health services in Sussex/Morris counties. One award of $6,000
Applications will be accepted July 1, 2024- August 16, 2024.
St. Clare’s Nursing Education Grant
This grant will support organizations and institutions that provide financial assistance to deserving individuals from Morris and Sussex counties entering the nursing profession or continuing education in the nursing profession. One grant award of $27,500.
Applications will be accepted July 1, 2024- August 16, 2024.
George & Yvonne Alkemade Vision Health Grant
This grant is dedicated to supporting organizations that provide general care and assistance to the blind community, alleviating the challenges faced by individuals affected by vision loss, enhance their quality of life, and ensure their comfort and welfare. While the grant encompasses a broad spectrum of support services, it specifically prohibits the use of funds for research or experimentation on animals.One to four grant awards will range between $10,000- $45,000.
Applications will be accepted July 1, 2024- August 16, 2024.
George A. Ohl, Jr. Health- Care Services Grant
This grant will support organizations that work directly improve or expand health-care services through unique programs, equipment, and research (with special preference for curing infantile paralysis). Only fund requests that will result in a direct improvement or expansion of services to individuals will be considered. One to two grant awards will range between $5,000-$11,000.
Applications will be accepted July 1, 2024- August 16, 2024.
Sheila Williamson Memorial Health Grant
The Sheila Williamson Memorial Health Grant is aimed at supporting grassroots initiatives focused on promoting health equity within underserved communities. This grant opportunity seeks to empower small organizations with innovative ideas and a commitment to addressing health disparities, ensuring that all individuals have equal access to quality healthcare and opportunities for well-being.One to two grant awards will range between $2,500 – $5,000.
Applications will be accepted July 1, 2024- August 16, 2024.