6 Best Autism Grants for Nonprofits

Last Updated on January 19, 2024 by Lori Pace

Nonprofits can apply for autism grants to help them fund their organisations in the United States. They provide programs to improve outcomes for people with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and also their families.

Autism Grants for Nonprofits
Nonprofits provide programs to improve outcomes for people with Autism Spectrum Disorders

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that one in fifty Americans has autism spectrum disorder. They are not able to get treatment because of financial limitations. Nonprofit organizations can use grants to help them run more successful programs and serve families better. These grants allow for societal impact that wouldn’t otherwise be possible.

Things to Consider Before Applying for Autism Grants for Nonprofits

Take the time to review and consider these points before you apply for grants for autism for non-profits.

  1. Firstly, do you have the resources to write winning grant applications?
  2. Secondly, are you able to meet the grant conditions
  3. Thirdly, are your programs in line with your strategy, goals, and mission?
  4. Then, will the program continue even after the grant has ended?
  5. What is the purpose of the grant for your organization; why is it important?
  6. Lastly, are you able to hire the right people to implement your program successfully? 

You must have a strategy and be clear about your goals if you are to get grants for your organization.

Where to Apply for Autism Grants for Nonprofits

1. Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks Local Impact Grant Program provides the biggest funding for organizations in the United States. So, it serves thousands of individuals with autism and their families.

The Autism Speaks Local Grant Program accepts applications from non-profit organizations and grants them up to $5,000. The Autism Speaks Local Impact Grants are for the following purposes:

  1. Encourage the development of local services to improve the lives and well-being of people with autism spectrum disorders
  2. Increase the effectiveness of ASD assistance
  3. Expand the number of national service providers

Autism Speaks places great emphasis on the product or deliverable of each proposal to serve the autism community. Autism Speaks also aims to make sure proposals offer opportunities for people with different levels of needs. Applications that address the needs of underserved communities, such as rural towns and non-English-speaking populations, are also considered. Visit this website for more information Grants for autism service providers

2. National Institutes of Health

The National Institutes of Health funds research to help the health of autistic people be better. One NIH initiative is the Autism Centers of Excellence Program (ACE) which helps macro, interdisciplinary research about autism spectrum disorder. This program also aims to identify the causes and best treatments for autism spectrum disorders.

The National Database for Autism Research (NDAR), a NIH program, was created to accelerate autism research. It provides information and highlights of existing research on autism spectrum disorders. The program also encourages new research through greater data access.

3. The Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD®)

CARD(r), the autism treatment provider, is a proud supporter for ACT Today. It provides funding and support for various non-profit organizations. Its mission is to raise funds to help families understanding autism spectrum disorder.

4. Department of Education

The Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) of the US Department of Education provides funding and grant opportunities. OSEP gives discretionary grants to non-profit organizations through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. This funding is used to support research, demonstrations and technology as well as personnel development. IDEA Discretionary grants can be awarded by a competitive process. For more information, visit this website.

5. Simons Foundation

Simons Foundation Autism Research Initiative, (SFARI), recognizes the value of human research in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), as well as the unique challenges that come with it. SFARI’s mission aims to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of ASD by funding relevant and innovative research. For more information, visit their website.

6. NEXT for AUTISM

NEXT For Autism supports people with autism and their families in the United States. In short, it transforms services through the strategic design, launch, and support of innovative programs.

NEXT for AUTISM’s Night of Too Many Stars Grants Program provides funding for organizations that improve the outcomes for people with autism spectrum disorders and their families. Visit their website for more information.

​​Conclusion about Autism Grants for Nonprofits

Autism grants for nonprofits help them meet the increasing needs of autistic individuals. This grant gives organizations the opportunity to be innovative and provide services for people with autism. Its mission is to provide educational programs, referrals, and services to individuals, their families, and caregivers in order to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Lori Pace
Lori Pace

Lori Pace is a single mother of three daughters ages 7 and under. As a working mom from home, she balances kids, work and two crazy dogs with humor and love. Follow Lori as she honestly gives tips and advice based on her own experiences as a single mom!