Associations and Societies

Many local, regional, national, and international associations and societies offer funding or resources to nonprofit organizations. While some focus exclusively on scholarships for individuals, others provide cash grants, in-kind support, or program sponsorships to nonprofits. For example, the National Association for the Exchange of Industrial Resources (NAEIR) redistributes donated products and supplies to eligible nonprofit members in the U.S. and Canada.

Securing support from a local association, club, or society is often a strong first step before approaching a regional, national, or international affiliate. Local support demonstrates community credibility and can strengthen future requests to larger, affiliated organizations.

If you are currently receiving funding from a local or regional association, club, or society, determine whether it is affiliated with a national or international organization that has its own giving program. Many federated organizations in both the U.S. and Canada maintain separate grantmaking at the national level.

Leadership within associations and societies often changes regularly, particularly those governed by volunteer boards. Monitor leadership transitions and funding cycles, as priorities may shift with new officers or committees.

Grants from associations and societies are often smaller than those from foundations or government agencies. Consider bundling multiple association grants or using them as seed or matching funds within a broader funding strategy.

Associations and societies typically fund projects that advance their profession, field, or member interests. Review the organization’s mission, strategic priorities, or recent conference themes and frame your request to show how your work strengthens the sector they represent.

If possible, identify a member of the association or society who can make an introduction on your behalf. Personal connections and member referrals often play an important role in securing funding from these organizations.

Membership in an association or society can strengthen your funding request. Joining, attending conferences or chapter meetings, or participating in committees demonstrates commitment to the field and may improve access to funding opportunities.

Many associations and societies offer non-cash support, such as in-kind donations, sponsored events, promotional opportunities, or endorsements. Consider how these resources can support your project or strengthen proposals to other funders.

Support from associations and societies can be especially useful for launching or piloting a new program. Maintain relationships with several local or regional organizations so you can approach them when seed funding is needed.

Eligibility requirements for association and society grants can be narrow and strictly applied. Review criteria carefully and, when possible, contact the funder in advance to confirm eligibility before submitting a proposal.

Visit the Charitable Giving database (U.S., Canada, or International) and apply the Type of Grantmaker filter to select “Association or Society” to identify relevant funding opportunities.

If you currently receive funding from a local or regional association, include research into affiliated national or international entities as part of your grants strategy for future projects.

One advantage of association and society grants is that application and reporting requirements are often less complex than those of larger institutional funders. Securing these grants early can help build proposal-writing skills and establish a track record of funding success.

Although reporting requirements may be lighter, use reports as a relationship-building opportunity. Share concise outcomes and success stories in language that resonates with the association’s members and leadership.