Special Interest Grants
Special Interest Grants fund research and science-focused projects in mental health, disabilities, education, arts, and related fields to benefit South Hampton Roads, Virginia, through donor-endowed support.
Funder: Hampton Roads Community Foundation
Due Dates: October 1, 2026 (Special Interest Grants — full application deadline, annual)
Funding Amounts: Award sizes vary by fund: typically $1,000–$75,000; most grants $2,500–$20,000; some up to $75,000 (e.g., piano fund), some as low as $500 (Nightingale Fund).
Summary: Supports South Hampton Roads nonprofits in eleven targeted community areas such as abuse, animal welfare, disabilities, education, mental health, arts, and veterans, with funding from donor-established endowments.
Key Information: Applicants must align with a specific fund’s focus and geographic/service requirements.
Description
Special Interest Grants from the Hampton Roads Community Foundation are designed to support nonprofit organizations serving residents of South Hampton Roads, Virginia, in eleven distinct community areas. These grants are made possible through endowments established by donors to address specific concerns such as domestic violence, animal welfare, developmental disabilities, horticultural education, mental health research, outreach to seniors, arts and humanities, high school support, piano acquisition/repair, and veterans’ services. Each grant area has unique eligibility criteria, funding preferences, and award ranges, reflecting the philanthropic goals of the original donors. The program aims to enhance the quality of life in the region by supporting projects that closely align with these targeted interests.
