13 Best Seed Grants for Non Profits in 2023? [Requirements]

Non-profit organizations are essential to our communities, providing much-needed assistance to those who are in need. However, running a non-profit can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to securing the necessary funding to continue providing your services.

Fortunately, there are many seed grants available to non-profit organizations. These grants can provide the necessary funding to get your organization off the ground or help it grow and expand. In this blog post, we will look at 13 available seed grants for non-profit organizations, their eligibility requirements, and how to apply.

Available Seed Grants for Non-Profits

1. Table of Content

   • The Awesome Foundation Grant
   • Pollination Project Seed Grant
   • Open Society Foundations Grant
   • Knight Foundation Prototype Fund
   • Google Ad Grants
   • The Soros Justice Fellowship
   • The Kellogg Foundation Grant
   • The New Voices Fellowship
   • The Rockefeller Foundation Grant
   • The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Grant
   • The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Grant
   • The American Heart Association Bernard J. Tyson Impact Fund
   • The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Grant

   The Awesome Foundation Grant

The Awesome Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides grants of up to $1,000 to individuals and groups working on projects that aim to make the world a better place.

The Awesome Foundation is a global community of philanthropists who provide micro-grants to projects and ideas that are considered “awesome” in their respective communities. The foundation’s mission is to support projects that promote creativity, innovation, and positive social change.

Eligibility for The Awesome Foundation Grant

The Awesome Foundation does not have a specific set of eligibility criteria for its grant recipients. However, the foundation generally looks for projects that are innovative, creative, and have the potential to make a positive impact on the community.

The foundation is open to funding projects from individuals, groups, non-profit organizations, and for-profit companies. The only requirement is that the project must be able to be completed within a short timeframe and with the grant amount provided, which is usually $1,000.

How to Apply for The Awesome Foundation Grant

To apply for The Awesome Foundation grant, the first step is to locate the chapter in your area. The foundation has more than 100 chapters worldwide, so there is likely a chapter near you.

• Once you’ve located the chapter, you can apply online through the chapter’s website. Each chapter has its own application process, but generally, you will be asked to provide information about your project, including a brief description, the impact it will have on the community, and how the grant will be used.
• Some chapters may also require a video or a presentation to accompany the application, so be sure to carefully review the application guidelines before submitting your proposal.
• After submitting your application, the chapter will review it and may contact you for additional information or to schedule an interview. The foundation makes its decisions on a monthly basis, so you should hear back about your application within a few weeks.
• If your project is selected, you will receive the grant amount in full, with no strings attached. The foundation does not require any reporting or follow-up from its grant recipients, but it does encourage recipients to share their progress and results with the community.

2. Pollination Project Seed Grant

The Pollination Project provides seed grants of up to $1,000 to grassroots organizations and individuals who are working on projects that promote social change. The Pollination Project is a non-profit organization that provides seed funding to social change projects around the world.

The organization supports a wide range of projects, including those related to social justice, animal rights, and environmental conservation. The Pollination Project Seed Grant is available to individuals and non-profit organizations that are working on early-stage projects that promote social change.

Eligibility for Pollination Project Seed Grant

To be eligible for the Pollination Project Seed Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• The project must be a new, innovative idea or a project in its early stages that have not yet received significant funding.
• The project must have a clear plan for creating positive social change.
• The project must align with the mission and values of the Pollination Project, which include promoting compassion, justice, and environmental sustainability.
• The project must be non-violent and respect the diversity of all individuals and communities.
• The applicant must be at least 18 years old.
• The applicant must be an individual or a non-profit organization.
• The applicant must not have any political or religious affiliation.

How to Apply for Pollination Project Seed Grant

The application process for the Pollination Project Seed Grant is straightforward and can be completed online. The application requires the following:

• A brief project description that clearly outlines the problem the project aims to solve, the target audience, the activities planned, and the expected outcomes.
• A detailed budget that lists all anticipated expenses for the project, including how the grant funds will be used.
• A timeline that outlines the project’s activities and milestones, including when the project will start and when it is expected to be completed.
• A resume or CV for the applicant.
• Two references who can vouch for the applicant’s character and ability to complete the project.
• A photograph that represents the project or the community it serves.

Please note that applications for the Pollination Project Seed Grant are accepted on a rolling basis, and decisions are typically made within eight weeks.

3. Open Society Foundations Grant

The Open Society Foundations provide grants to non-profit organizations that are working on issues related to human rights, social justice, and democratic governance. The grants are typically between $50,000 and $500,000, and they are intended to support organizations that are working on long-term projects that have a lasting impact on their communities.

The Open Society Foundations is a global organization that supports human rights, social justice, and democracy around the world.

Eligibility for Open Society Foundations Grant

The eligibility criteria for Open Society Foundations grants vary depending on the specific grant program. However, in general, the organization prioritizes projects that align with its mission and values. Some of the key criteria include:

• The project or organization must have a clear and compelling plan for creating positive social change.
• The project or organization must align with the Open Society Foundations’ values, which include promoting justice, equality, and human rights.
• The project or organization must have the potential to create a lasting impact in its community or sector.
• The applicant must have a strong track record of success in their work and a deep understanding of the issue they are addressing.
• The applicant must be committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in their work.
• The applicant must have a clear plan for how they will measure the impact of their project.

How to Apply for Open Society Foundations Grant

The application process for Open Society Foundations grants varies depending on the specific grant program. However, in general, the application process involves the following steps:

• Identify the grant program that is most relevant to your project or organization. The Open Society Foundations offer several grant programs, each with its own eligibility criteria and application process.
• Review the guidelines and eligibility criteria for the grant program.
• Prepare a strong proposal that clearly outlines your project or organization, its goals and objectives, and how it aligns with the mission and values of the Open Society Foundations.
• Submit your application by the deadline. Be sure to follow the application guidelines and provide all the necessary information.
• Wait for a decision. The Open Society Foundations receive a large number of applications, and the review process can take several weeks or months. If your application is successful, you will be notified and provided with further instructions.

4. Knight Foundation Prototype Fund

The Knight Foundation Prototype Fund provides grants of up to $50,000 to individuals, organizations, and businesses that are working on projects that use technology to promote civic engagement and community development.

The Knight Foundation Prototype Fund is a grant program that provides funding to individuals and organizations who have innovative ideas for using technology to improve journalism and advance democracy. The grant is designed to support early-stage projects that have the potential to make a significant impact in these areas.

Eligibility for Knight Foundation Prototype Fund

To be eligible for the Knight Foundation Prototype Fund, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• The project must be an early-stage idea that uses technology to advance journalism and democracy.
• The project must be innovative and have the potential to make a significant impact in the field.
• The project must be feasible and have a clear plan for execution.
• The applicant must be a U.S.-based individual or organization.
• The applicant must be legally incorporated as a nonprofit organization or an individual operating under a fiscal sponsor.
• The applicant must be able to demonstrate a track record of successful projects in the field.

How to Apply for Knight Foundation Prototype Fund

The application process for the Knight Foundation Prototype Fund involves the following steps:

• Complete the online application form, which includes basic information about the applicant and the project.
• Submit a project proposal that includes a clear description of the project, its goals and objectives, and how it aligns with the Knight Foundation’s mission and values.
• Submit a budget for the project, including a breakdown of expenses and how the grant funds will be used.
• Submit a timeline that outlines the project’s activities and milestones, including when the project will start and when it is expected to be completed.
• Submit a work sample that demonstrates the applicant’s ability to execute the project.
• Submit a letter of support from a professional reference.
• Wait for a decision. The Knight Foundation Prototype Fund reviews applications on a rolling basis, and decisions are typically made within four to six weeks.

5. Google Ad Grants

Google Ad Grants provide non-profit organizations with free advertising on Google. Eligible organizations can receive up to $10,000 per month in advertising credits, which can be used to promote their cause and attract new donors and volunteers.

Google Ad Grants is a program that provides free advertising to non-profit organizations to help them promote their missions and initiatives. The program is designed to help non-profit organizations reach a wider audience and increase their impact.

Eligibility for Google Ad Grants

To be eligible for the Google Ad Grants program, organizations must meet the following criteria:

• The organization must be a registered charity or nonprofit organization in good standing with its country’s regulatory body.
• The organization must hold a valid charity status in its country of operation.
• The organization must have a functional website that provides information about its mission and programs.
• The organization must not be a government entity or a hospital.
• The organization must have a valid AdWords account.
• The organization must agree to comply with the Google Ad Grants program policies and guidelines.

How to Apply for Google Ad Grants

The application process for the Google Ad Grants program involves the following steps:

• Visit the Google Ad Grants website and review the program policies and guidelines.
• Check your organization’s eligibility by reviewing the eligibility criteria and ensuring that your organization meets all the requirements.
• Create a Google AdWords account and sign up for the Google Ad Grants program.
• Complete the AdWords application process, providing all the required information about your organization and its mission.
• Wait for approval. Once you have submitted your application, it will be reviewed by Google to ensure that your organization meets the program’s eligibility criteria.
• If your application is approved, your organization will receive a notification that your AdWords account has been upgraded to the Google Ad Grants program.
• Begin using your free advertising credits to promote your organization’s mission and initiatives.

6. The Soros Justice Fellowship

The Soros Justice Fellowship Seed Grant is a program that provides funding to individuals who have innovative ideas for addressing the root causes of mass incarceration and advancing criminal justice reform. The grants are typically between $58,700 and $110,250. The grant is designed to support early-stage projects that have the potential to make a significant impact in these areas.

Eligibility for Soros Justice Fellowship Seed Grant

To be eligible for the Soros Justice Fellowship Seed Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• The project must be an early-stage idea that addresses the root causes of mass incarceration and advances criminal justice reform.
• The project must be innovative and have the potential to make a significant impact in the field.
• The project must be feasible and have a clear plan for execution.
• The applicant must be a U.S.-based individual or organization.
• The applicant must be legally incorporated as a nonprofit organization or an individual operating under a fiscal sponsor.
• The applicant must be able to demonstrate a track record of successful projects in the field.
• The applicant must be committed to advancing social justice and human rights.

How to Apply for Soros Justice Fellowship Seed Grant

The application process for the Soros Justice Fellowship Seed Grant involves the following steps:

• Complete the online application form, which includes basic information about the applicant and the project.
• Submit a project proposal that includes a clear description of the project, its goals and objectives, and how it addresses the root causes of mass incarceration and advances criminal justice reform.
• Submit a budget for the project, including a breakdown of expenses and how the grant funds will be used.
• Submit a timeline that outlines the project’s activities and milestones, including when the project will start and when it is expected to be completed.
• Submit a work sample that demonstrates the applicant’s ability to execute the project.
• Submit a letter of support from a professional reference.
• Wait for a decision. The Soros Justice Fellowship Seed Grant reviews applications on a rolling basis, and decisions are typically made within four to six weeks.

7. The Kellogg Foundation Grant

The Kellogg Foundation Seed Grant is a program that provides funding to organizations and individuals who are working to create a more equitable society. The grants are typically between $25,000 and $500,000. The grant is designed to support projects and initiatives that align with the foundation’s mission and values.

Eligibility for Kellogg Foundation Seed Grant

To be eligible for the Kellogg Foundation Seed Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• The project or initiative must align with the foundation’s mission and values, which are focused on promoting racial equity, advancing community leadership, and supporting equitable health and well-being.
• The applicant must be a U.S.-based organization or individual.
• The applicant must have a track record of successfully implementing projects or initiatives that align with the foundation’s mission and values.
• The project or initiative must be feasible and have a clear plan for execution.
• The applicant must be able to demonstrate the impact of the project or initiative.
• The applicant must be committed to promoting racial equity, advancing community leadership, and supporting equitable health and well-being.

How to Apply for Kellogg Foundation Seed Grant

The application process for the Kellogg Foundation Seed Grant involves the following steps:

• Review the foundation’s mission and values to ensure that the project or initiative aligns with the foundation’s focus areas.
• Check the foundation’s website to determine if the organization is currently accepting applications for seed grants.
• Complete the online application form, which includes basic information about the organization or individual, the project or initiative, and how it aligns with the foundation’s mission and values.
• Submit a detailed proposal that outlines the goals and objectives of the project or initiative, the methodology that will be used to implement the project, the expected outcomes and impact, and the timeline for execution.
• Submit a budget for the project or initiative, including a breakdown of expenses and how the grant funds will be used.
• Wait for a decision. The foundation reviews applications on a rolling basis and decisions are typically made within six to eight weeks.

8. The New Voices Fellowship

The New Voices Fellowship Seed Grant is a program that provides support to young African scholars and researchers working to improve the lives of people in Africa. The grants are typically between $25,000 and $50,000. The grant is designed to support projects and initiatives that align with the foundation’s mission and values.

Eligibility for New Voices Fellowship Seed Grant

To be eligible for the New Voices Fellowship Seed Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• The applicant must be an African scholar or researcher under the age of 40.
• The applicant must be working in a field related to social and economic development in Africa.
• The applicant must have a track record of innovative research and work that demonstrates a commitment to improving the lives of people in Africa.
• The applicant must be committed to building a career in research and advocacy on issues related to social and economic development in Africa.
• The applicant must have a strong command of the English language.
• The applicant must be willing and able to commit to the fellowship’s requirements, including attending seminars, writing research papers, and participating in public policy debates.

How to Apply for New Voices Fellowship Seed Grant

The application process for the New Voices Fellowship Seed Grant involves the following steps:

• Check the foundation’s website to determine if the organization is currently accepting applications for seed grants.
• Complete the online application form, which includes basic information about the applicant, the project or initiative, and how it aligns with the foundation’s mission and values.
• Submit a detailed research proposal that outlines the goals and objectives of the project, the methodology that will be used to implement the project, the expected outcomes and impact, and the timeline for execution.
• Submit a budget for the project or initiative, including a breakdown of expenses and how the grant funds will be used.
• Submit a letter of recommendation from a senior academic or professional who can attest to the applicant’s qualifications and potential.
• Wait for a decision. The foundation reviews applications on a rolling basis and decisions are typically made within six to eight weeks.

9. The Rockefeller Foundation Grant

The Rockefeller Foundation provides seed grants to non-profit organizations that are working on issues related to health, the environment, and economic growth. The grants are typically between $100,000 and $1,000,000, and they are intended to support organizations that are working on long-term projects that have a significant impact on their communities.

Eligibility for Rockefeller Foundation Seed Grant

To be eligible for the Rockefeller Foundation Seed Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• The applicant must be an organization or individual that has a new and innovative idea for addressing a global issue.
• The proposed project or idea must align with the foundation’s mission to advance health, promote equitable growth, and address climate change.
• The applicant must have a clear plan for implementing the project or idea, with a focus on measurable impact and outcomes.
• The proposed project or idea must have the potential for significant impact and scale.
• The applicant must have a track record of success in implementing similar projects or ideas.

How to Apply for Rockefeller Foundation Seed Grant

The application process for the Rockefeller Foundation Seed Grant involves the following steps:

• Check the foundation’s website to determine if the organization is currently accepting applications for seed grants.
• Complete the online application form, which includes basic information about the applicant, the project or idea, and how it aligns with the foundation’s mission.
• Submit a detailed proposal that outlines the goals and objectives of the project or idea, the methodology that will be used to implement it, the expected outcomes and impact, and the timeline for execution.
• Submit a budget for the project or idea, including a breakdown of expenses and how the grant funds will be used.
• Submit any additional materials that may support the proposal, such as letters of support or endorsement from relevant stakeholders or partners.
• Wait for a decision. The foundation reviews applications on a rolling basis and decisions are typically made within six to eight weeks.

10. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Grant

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation provides seed grants to non-profit organizations that are working on issues related to global health and development. The grants are typically between $100,000 and $1,000,000, and they are intended to support organizations that are working on projects that have a significant impact on the health and well-being of people in developing countries.

Eligibility for Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Seed Grant

To be eligible for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Seed Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• The applicant must be a nonprofit organization or individual that has an innovative idea for addressing a global issue, specifically in the areas of global health, education, and poverty.
• The proposed project or idea must align with the foundation’s mission to improve the quality of life for people around the world, with a focus on addressing the most critical and urgent challenges.
• The applicant must have a clear plan for implementing the project or idea, with a focus on measurable impact and outcomes.
• The proposed project or idea must have the potential for significant impact and scale.
• The applicant must have a track record of success in implementing similar projects or ideas.

How to Apply for Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Seed Grant

The application process for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Seed Grant involves the following steps:

• Check the foundation’s website to determine if the organization is currently accepting applications for seed grants.
• Submit a letter of inquiry, which provides a brief overview of the proposed project or idea, its objectives and expected outcomes, and the potential impact it could have.
• If the foundation is interested in the proposal, the applicant will be invited to submit a full proposal, which includes a detailed description of the project or idea, the methodology that will be used to implement it, the expected outcomes and impact, and the timeline for execution.
• Submit a budget for the project or idea, including a breakdown of expenses and how the grant funds will be used.
• Submit any additional materials that may support the proposal, such as letters of support or endorsement from relevant stakeholders or partners.
• Wait for a decision. The foundation reviews applications on a rolling basis and decisions are typically made within six to eight weeks.

11. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Grant

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation provides grants to non-profit organizations that are working on issues related to health and healthcare. The grants are typically between $50,000 and $300,000, and they are intended to support organizations that are working on projects that promote social change and improve the health and well-being of their communities.

Eligibility for Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Seed Grant

To be eligible for the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Seed Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• The applicant must be a non-profit organization, a public entity, or a government agency.
• The proposed project or idea must have the potential to improve health and healthcare in the United States.
• The applicant must have a clear plan for implementing the project or idea, with a focus on measurable impact and outcomes.
• The proposed project or idea must have the potential for significant impact and scale.
• The applicant must have a track record of success in implementing similar projects or ideas.

How to Apply for Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Seed Grant

The application process for the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Seed Grant involves the following steps:

• Check the foundation’s website to determine if the organization is currently accepting applications for seed grants.
• Submit a letter of inquiry, which provides a brief overview of the proposed project or idea, its objectives and expected outcomes, and the potential impact it could have.
• If the foundation is interested in the proposal, the applicant will be invited to submit a full proposal, which includes a detailed description of the project or idea, the methodology that will be used to implement it, the expected outcomes and impact, and the timeline for execution.
• Submit a budget for the project or idea, including a breakdown of expenses and how the grant funds will be used.
• Submit any additional materials that may support the proposal, such as letters of support or endorsement from relevant stakeholders or partners.
• Wait for a decision. The foundation reviews applications on a rolling basis and decisions are typically made within six to eight weeks.

12. The American Heart Association Bernard J. Tyson Impact Fund

The American Heart Association Bernard J. Tyson Impact Fund provides grants to non-profit organizations that are working on issues related to cardiovascular health and equity. The grants are typically between $100,000 and $500,000, and they are intended to support organizations that are working on projects that have a significant impact on the health and well-being of their communities.

Eligibility for American Heart Association Bernard J. Tyson Impact Fund

To be eligible for the American Heart Association Bernard J. Tyson Impact Fund, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• The applicant must be a non-profit organization, a public entity, or a government agency.
• The proposed project or idea must focus on addressing one or more social determinants of health in under-resourced communities.
• The applicant must have a clear plan for implementing the project or idea, with a focus on measurable impact and outcomes.
• The proposed project or idea must have the potential for significant impact and scale.
• The applicant must have a track record of success in implementing similar projects or ideas.
• The project or idea must align with the American Heart Association’s mission to improve cardiovascular health for all.

How to Apply for American Heart Association Bernard J. Tyson Impact Fund

The application process for the American Heart Association Bernard J. Tyson Impact Fund involves the following steps:

• Check the foundation’s website to determine if the organization is currently accepting applications for the impact fund.
• Submit a letter of inquiry, which provides a brief overview of the proposed project or idea, its objectives and expected outcomes, and the potential impact it could have.
• If the foundation is interested in the proposal, the applicant will be invited to submit a full proposal, which includes a detailed description of the project or idea, the methodology that will be used to implement it, the expected outcomes and impact, and the timeline for execution.
• Submit a budget for the project or idea, including a breakdown of expenses and how the grant funds will be used.
• Submit any additional materials that may support the proposal, such as letters of support or endorsement from relevant stakeholders or partners.
• Wait for a decision. The foundation reviews applications on a rolling basis and decisions are typically made within six to eight weeks.

13. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Grant

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services provides grants to non-profit organizations that are working on issues related to health and human services. The grants are typically between $500,000 and $5,000,000, and they are intended to support organizations that are working on long-term projects that have a significant impact on the health and well-being of their communities.

Eligibility for U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Grants

To be eligible for an HHS grant, organizations must typically meet the following criteria:

• Be a non-profit organization, educational institution, or state or local government agency.
• Have a clear mission and focus on improving public health or addressing health care disparities.
• Have a track record of success in implementing similar programs or projects.
• Demonstrate the ability to manage grant funds and meet reporting requirements.
• Meet any additional eligibility criteria specific to the grant program.

How to Apply for U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Grants

The application process for HHS grants involves the following steps:

• Identify the grant program(s) that align with the organization’s mission and goals. HHS offers a searchable database of grant programs on its website.
• Review the eligibility criteria and application requirements for each grant program. Each program may have different application requirements, such as specific application forms, deadlines, and submission processes.
• Submit a letter of inquiry or pre-application, if required by the grant program.
• Develop a comprehensive project proposal that outlines the goals, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes of the project. The proposal should also include a detailed budget and plan for evaluating the impact of the project.
• Submit the application, which may involve completing an online application form or submitting a paper application.
• Wait for a decision. The review and selection process for HHS grants can take several months, depending on the grant program.