New Grant Programs 2026: Your Guide to Upcoming Federal, State & Foundation Funding

The Continued Impact of Multi-Year Federal Legislation in 2026

Landmark federal laws passed in previous years will continue to be a primary source of new grant funding in 2026. Legislation like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and the CHIPS and Science Act were designed to disburse funds over several years. For grant seekers, this means 2026 will see the release of later-stage funding tranches. These will often take the form of new, highly targeted competitive grant programs managed by various federal agencies.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, for instance, will roll out new programs to modernize transportation and strengthen the energy grid. It will also fund initiatives to expand broadband access and improve water systems. Expect specific calls for proposals aimed at innovative solutions in these sectors. Similarly, the Inflation Reduction Act will fuel fresh grant opportunities in clean energy, climate resilience, and environmental justice. Agencies like the EPA and the Department of Energy (DOE) are anticipated to launch these new initiatives.

Emerging Federal Priorities Driving New Programs

Beyond existing legislation, the federal government’s strategic priorities for 2026 will shape a new generation of grant programs. These focal points reflect pressing national challenges and rapid technological advancements. This alignment creates funding streams for cutting-edge and socially critical projects.

Key areas expected to receive new funding include Artificial Intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing. Much of this push is spurred by the CHIPS and Science Act, with agencies like the National Science Foundation (NSF) and NIST at the forefront. Industry analysis indicates a significant push for programs that bolster domestic supply chains and technological leadership. Concurrently, pandemic preparedness remains a high priority. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the CDC will likely announce grants for public health infrastructure, data modernization, and research into future health threats.

State-Level Grant Funding: Projections and Trends for 2026

A significant portion of new state-level grant activity in 2026 will be tied to federal pass-through funds from the BIL and IRA. States are responsible for administering these funds, often creating unique grant programs tailored to local needs. Therefore, grant seekers should closely monitor their respective state energy, transportation, and environmental agency announcements.

State economic conditions and policy trends will also dictate new grant programs independent of federal money. States with budget surpluses may launch fresh initiatives in areas like affordable housing, workforce development, and education. Watching your state’s legislative sessions and budget approvals in 2025 will provide the clearest indicators of new state-funded grant programs for 2026.

Shifts in Philanthropy and Foundation Giving for 2026

The world of private philanthropy is also evolving, with new foundation-led initiatives expected to launch in 2026. One major trend is the move toward trust-based philanthropy, which could result in more unrestricted or general operating support grants. Foundations are also increasingly focused on systemic change and collaboration to address the root causes of social issues.

Philanthropic strategists anticipate that many foundations will recalibrate their focus to tackle complex challenges. These include climate justice, mental health equity, and strengthening democratic institutions. Expect to see large, multi-year initiatives announced by major foundations in these areas. New programs will likely prioritize community-led solutions and long-term partnerships over short-term, project-based funding.

Sector-Specific Forecasts: Where to Expect New Funding in 2026

Drilling down into specific sectors reveals a clearer picture of where new grant programs will likely emerge in 2026.

**Technology & AI:** Driven by the CHIPS Act, expect new grants from the NSF and Department of Commerce for semiconductor R&D, quantum computing, and AI ethics research.

**Healthcare:** Reflecting post-pandemic priorities, the NIH and HRSA will likely offer new programs focused on telehealth expansion, rural health equity, and behavioral health integration.

**Environment:** The IRA will continue to be a primary driver of funding. Look for new competitive grants from the EPA for community pollution reduction and from the DOE for renewable energy technology.

**Education:** The Department of Education may launch new funding opportunities aimed at addressing teacher shortages. Other potential focuses include expanding STEM education and integrating digital literacy into curricula.

**Community Development:** Agencies like HUD and the EDA are expected to offer new grants for creating resilient and equitable communities, focusing on affordable housing, climate adaptation, and small business support.

How the 2024 Election Cycle Will Shape 2026 Grant Programs

The impact of the 2024 U.S. elections is a critical factor for the 2026 grant landscape. The administration and congressional majority in power during the 2025 budget process will determine funding levels and priorities for Fiscal Year 2026. A shift in political control could lead to the creation of entirely new grant programs aligned with a new agenda, while other programs may be altered or discontinued.

Grant seekers must remain adaptable and informed. Following the election, pay close attention to policy statements and the presidential budget proposal submitted in early 2025. These documents offer the earliest clues about which sectors will be prioritized and where new federal grant programs will likely be established for 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Looking ahead to 2026, the grant funding landscape is poised for significant activity. New programs will emerge from large-scale federal legislation, evolving government priorities, and strategic shifts in private philanthropy. The key to success will be staying informed about policy changes, understanding sector-specific trends, and preparing to act on new opportunities as they are announced.

To stay ahead of the curve, we recommend exploring our complete guide to FY2026 Federal Grant Priorities and bookmarking our 2026 Grant Deadlines Calendar for the latest updates.

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