Current Operating Grant Opportunities for Nonprofits (Fall 2025)

What is an Operating Grant vs. Program Grant vs. Capital Grant?

Funders typically offer three main types of grant support, and understanding the distinctions is key to building a strong funding strategy:

• Operating Grants (sometimes called general support or unrestricted support): These cover an organization’s ongoing core costs—staff salaries, rent, utilities, administrative expenses, planning, and more. Because they aren’t tied to a single program, they give nonprofits valuable flexibility to sustain and strengthen their mission.

• Program Grants: Restricted to funding a specific program or project. Funders require a detailed proposal outlining what the program is, how it will be run, anticipated outcomes, and exactly how funds will be spent.

• Capital Grants: Designed for one-time or infrequent large expenses such as construction, major renovations, land/building purchases, or significant equipment. These grants are usually larger but also come with stricter requirements.

Most nonprofits prefer operating grants, as they provide the resources to cover overhead and invest in capacity building. However, since the majority of funding available is program-specific, it’s important to apply strategically. One key approach is to allocate a reasonable portion of operating expenses within program budgets—effectively securing indirect operating support through program grants.

Operating Grant Opportunities – Fall 2025

Here are a few current and national opportunities to explore this season:

• The Lawrence Foundation – Deadline: October 31, 2025
  Offers both operating and program support to a wide range of nonprofits. Their process is straightforward, and awards are typically in the $5,000–$10,000 range.

• Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation – Deadline: November 10, 2025
  Provides general operating or program support, especially for organizations where a relatively small grant can make a significant impact. Awards generally range from $1,000–$20,000.

• Walmart Spark Good Grants – Rolling Deadlines
  Local Walmart stores, Sam’s Clubs, and distribution centers offer grants to support nonprofits in their communities. While often project-focused, many nonprofits successfully apply these funds toward core operating needs like supplies, community outreach, and direct service delivery.

• W.K. Kellogg Foundation – Rolling Deadlines
  A large national funder with a strong focus on equity, racial justice, children, and families. While highly competitive, Kellogg is known for making multi-year general operating support grants, especially to organizations advancing systemic change.

• Impact Funding Solutions – Impact Grant fall cycle due by November 30th

Where Else to Look for Operating Support

In addition to these national opportunities, nonprofits should stay connected to local sources of funding:

• Community Foundations: Many community foundations run annual or semi-annual grant cycles that include operating or capacity-building support. They’re also more likely to fund smaller, grassroots organizations.

• Local Municipalities: Cities and counties often offer small but impactful operating support grants, sometimes tied to economic development, arts, or human services.

• Corporate Giving Programs: Local and regional businesses often sponsor nonprofits through flexible grants or sponsorships. Fall is budget season for many companies—making now the perfect time to approach them.

Final Thought

Operating support remains one of the most sought-after types of funding, but it is also the most competitive. By keeping an eye on national opportunities, engaging with local funders, and strategically incorporating operating expenses into program budgets, nonprofits can position themselves for sustainable growth in 2026 and beyond.

If you need any assistance with grant research, strategy or grant writing please contact us today!