2026 Grant Opportunities: Federal, State, and Nonprofit Funding Trends & How to Apply

Federal Grant Programs Launching in 2026

The United States government is expected to unveil a robust lineup of new and expanded grant programs in 2026. These initiatives will target urgent national priorities including health, technology, education, climate adaptation, and workforce advancement.

Key federal agencies—such as the Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Education, and the USDA—plan to introduce or revise funding opportunities in line with recent legislative mandates and evolving public needs. Upcoming programs are likely to emphasize support for small businesses, STEM learning, rural infrastructure improvements, climate resilience, and skills training. Grant details and eligibility guidelines will be posted on official platforms like grants.gov, with the first announcements anticipated in early-to-mid 2026. For a step-by-step overview of the federal grant application process and how recent changes may impact your strategy, see our guide to the 2026 grant application process.

To further understand if your organization qualifies for these opportunities, review our comprehensive article on federal grant eligibility criteria for 2026.

State and Local Grant Opportunities for 2026

State and local governments are integral in addressing unique community needs through targeted grant initiatives. In 2026, a new wave of grants at state and municipal levels is expected, focusing on affordable housing, public health, green infrastructure, and economic resilience.

Many states will leverage both federal funds and their own resources to promote technology adoption, community development, and climate adaptation. Small businesses and nonprofits should keep a close eye on state agency updates and municipal announcements for the latest information on eligibility, timelines, and application procedures. For a full funding calendar including sector-specific and regional deadlines, consult our 2026 grant deadlines and funding calendar resource.

Nonprofit and Foundation Grants with 2026 Funding Cycles

Leading foundations and nonprofit organizations will roll out competitive grant rounds in 2026. These cycles mirror broader philanthropic priorities such as equity, innovation, and measurable impact across sectors like health research, educational opportunity, the arts, and social justice.

For instance, the Martha E. Rogers Scholars Fund plans new support rounds in 2026 for nursing and health science research. The Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship will continue to accept applicants for the 2025/26 year and is expected to renew opportunities into 2026. Nonprofits aiming to secure funding should subscribe to announcements from prominent funders and set up alerts to stay on top of new application windows. Explore our grant funding guide for nonprofits in 2026 for tips and strategies on winning these opportunities.

Trending Areas for New Funding in 2026: Climate, Technology, and Health

Emerging global challenges are shaping the direction of new grant funding expected in 2026. Top funding areas include climate resilience, technological innovation, public health, and workforce development.

Applicants should look for competitive opportunities related to clean energy, artificial intelligence, health equity, food security, and digital transformation. The private sector also plans new grant and challenge programs for startups and social enterprises developing climate and tech solutions. Regularly checking sector-specific funding calendars can provide early access to these high-demand opportunities. For a detailed analysis of leading trends and top grant sectors, read our overview of 2026 grant funding trends.

Legislation Affecting 2026 Grant Availability

Recent federal and state legislation will play a critical role in shaping the grant landscape for 2026. Laws and policies enacted in 2024 and 2025 are set to influence both funding levels and priority areas.

Expect trends such as expanded tax credits for nonprofits, targeted allocations for rural broadband, and additional economic recovery resources. These measures may significantly impact eligibility criteria and the range of projects supported. Applicants are encouraged to stay informed about relevant policy developments affecting their sector. For more insights into how legislative changes may alter grant eligibility and compliance, refer to our guide on grant eligibility and key changes for 2026.

Forecasting Major Grant Initiatives for 2026

The grant landscape in 2026 will feature both established and innovative funding approaches. Watch for federal and foundation-backed ‘challenges,’ longer-term project investments, and partnerships focused on climate resilience, equity, and technology innovation.

Grantmaking processes will continue to modernize, prioritizing simpler applications, performance-based funding, and data-driven impact tracking. Early research and tracking of forecasted grants gives applicants a competitive advantage. Refer to related guides on our site for further trend analysis and upcoming deadlines, such as our comprehensive overview of 2026 grant cycles, key dates, and how to apply.