Grants for Immigrants
Immigrants, refugees, and asylees can access federal and state grants for employment training, housing assistance, education programs, legal services, English language learning, and integration support. Most grants fund nonprofit organizations that provide direct services to immigrants, though some opportunities exist for individuals. Below are 32 verified grant opportunities from government agencies.
Types of Immigrant Assistance Grants
Employment & Job Training
Grants support workforce development programs, vocational training, credential recognition, job placement services, and employment counseling specifically designed for immigrant populations. Programs often include career coaching and workplace readiness training.
Housing & Resettlement
Federal and state programs provide rental assistance, transitional housing, emergency shelter, and resettlement services for refugees and asylees. Some programs help with initial housing setup, furniture, household goods, and utility deposits for newly arrived families.
Education & Language
English as a Second Language (ESL) programs, adult basic education, GED preparation, citizenship classes, financial literacy training, and educational support for immigrant children and adults. Many programs are offered at no cost through community organizations.
Legal Services & Integration
Immigration legal services, citizenship application assistance, document translation, family reunification support, civic engagement programs, and cultural integration services. Legal aid often includes consultation, application preparation, and representation.
Who Is Eligible for Immigrant Grants?
Immigration Status Requirements
- Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders): Eligible for most federal and state programs after a 5-year waiting period for certain benefits
- Refugees and Asylees: Eligible for Refugee Assistance programs immediately upon arrival or asylum grant
- Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders: Afghan and Iraqi allies often qualify for refugee resettlement services
- Victims of trafficking and crime: T and U visa holders may access specific victim assistance programs
- DACA recipients: Eligibility varies by program and state; generally cannot access federal benefits but may qualify for state programs
- Undocumented individuals: Limited access to federal grants, but some state and nonprofit programs provide emergency assistance, health services, and education
Important: Most federal grants fund organizations (nonprofits, community centers, legal aid providers) that serve immigrants, rather than providing direct cash assistance to individuals. Contact organizations in your community to access services funded by these grants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I apply for immigrant grants directly?
Most federal and state immigrant grants fund nonprofit organizations, resettlement agencies, community centers, and legal aid providers—not individuals. To access services, contact local immigrant resource centers, refugee resettlement agencies (like IRC, LIRS, USCRI), community action agencies, or legal aid organizations in your area. Use the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) State Programs Directory to find services near you.
Will using grant-funded services affect my immigration status?
Using services like ESL classes, job training, or legal aid generally does NOT negatively affect immigration status or future applications. However, applying for certain public benefits (like SNAP or Medicaid) may have "public charge" implications for some visa categories. Consult with an immigration attorney before applying for public benefits if you plan to adjust status or apply for a green card. Educational and employment services are typically safe.
Are there grants specifically for refugee families?
Yes. The Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) administers multiple programs specifically for refugees, asylees, Cuban/Haitian entrants, Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders, and trafficking victims. Programs include Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA), Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA), Refugee Social Services, and Matching Grant Program for employment services. Contact your state refugee coordinator or local resettlement agency within your first 8 months in the U.S. to apply.
Can DACA recipients access grant-funded programs?
DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients generally cannot access federal benefits or grants that require lawful immigration status. However, many state-funded programs, private foundation grants, and nonprofit services (like educational scholarships, legal aid, job training) are available. Eligibility varies significantly by state—California, New York, Illinois, and Washington offer more state-level support for DACA recipients than other states.
How do I find immigrant support organizations in my area?
Start with the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) State Programs Directory at ACF.HHS.gov, which lists state-by-state contacts. Also try: Catholic Charities USA, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS), International Rescue Committee (IRC), United States Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI), local community action agencies, immigrant rights organizations, and legal aid societies. Use 211 (dial 2-1-1 or visit 211.org) for free referrals to local services.
Are there free legal services for immigration cases?
Yes. Many nonprofit legal aid organizations provide free or low-cost immigration legal services funded by grants. Find accredited representatives through the Department of Justice's Immigration Court website (search "EOIR recognized organizations list") or contact the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) for lawyer referrals. Legal services often include citizenship application help, asylum case support, family reunification petitions, and DACA renewals.
How to Access Immigrant Support Services
1. Find Local Organizations
Use the ORR State Programs Directory, 211 hotline, or search online for "immigrant services [your city]" or "refugee resettlement agency [your city]". Catholic Charities, IRC, and LIRS have offices nationwide. Most major cities have immigrant resource centers and legal aid clinics.
2. Contact Service Providers
Call or visit organizations to ask about available programs (employment, housing, ESL, legal aid). Many offer free initial consultations. Bring identification documents (passport, visa, I-94, work authorization) if available, but many services are accessible regardless of documentation status.
3. Gather Documentation
Depending on the service, you may need: proof of immigration status (green card, refugee/asylee documents, visa, work permit), proof of residence (lease, utility bill), identification (passport, birth certificate, consular ID), income documentation (pay stubs, tax returns), and any family member documents if applying for family services.
4. Enroll in Programs
Complete intake forms and assessments with service providers. Programs may include case management, where a coordinator helps you access multiple services (housing, job training, ESL, legal aid) through a single point of contact. Ask about all available services—many organizations offer comprehensive support.
5. Participate Actively
Attend classes, meetings, and appointments regularly. Many employment and resettlement programs have participation requirements. Take advantage of wraparound services (childcare, transportation assistance, translation) offered by programs. Stay in communication with case managers about changing needs or barriers to participation.
Immigrant Assistance Resources
Office of Refugee Resettlement
Federal agency administering refugee assistance programs including employment services, cash assistance, medical assistance, and social services. Find state programs directory and contacts at ACF.HHS.gov/orr. Refugees and asylees should contact within first 8 months of arrival.
Visit ACF.HHS.gov/orr →U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
USCIS.gov provides official information on immigration processes, citizenship, green cards, work permits, and family-based petitions. Check processing times, find forms, schedule appointments, and access educational resources. Free USCIS tools help prepare citizenship tests and applications.
Visit USCIS.gov →211 Immigrant Services Directory
Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211.org to find local immigrant support organizations, legal aid, ESL classes, employment programs, housing assistance, and emergency services. Available in multiple languages. Free, confidential referrals to community resources in your area.
Visit 211.org →American Immigration Lawyers Association
AILA provides lawyer referrals, legal resources, and information on immigration law. Search for immigration attorneys by location and specialty. Many AILA members offer pro bono (free) services or sliding-scale fees for low-income clients. Also provides "Know Your Rights" materials.
Visit AILA.org →Available Grants for Immigrants
Below are 32 verified grant opportunities supporting immigrant services. These grants primarily fund organizations that provide direct assistance to immigrants, refugees, and asylees. Click any grant to view official details and eligibility requirements.
Integration of Imaging and Fluid-Based Tumor Monitoring in Cancer Therapy (R01 Clinical Trial Optional)
National Institutes of Health
View Official Source →Secondary Analysis and Integration of Existing Data to Elucidate Cancer Risk and Related Outcomes (R01 Clinical Trial Not Allowed)
National Institutes of Health
View Official Source →Secondary Analysis and Integration of Existing Data to Elucidate Cancer Risk and Related Outcomes (R21 Clinical Trials Not Allowed)
National Institutes of Health
View Official Source →OVC FY25 Housing Assistance for Victims of Human Trafficking
Office for Victims of Crime
View Official Source →Training-based Workforce Development for Advanced Cyberinfrastructure (CyberTraining)
U.S. National Science Foundation
View Official Source →Homeless Veterans’ Reintegration Program (HVRP), Incarcerated Veterans’ Transition Program (IVTP), and the Homeless Women Veterans' and Homeless Veterans' with Children Reintegration Grant Program (HWVHVWC) (referred to collectively as HVRP)
Veterans Employment and Training Service
View Official Source →Farmworkers Advancement Program (FAP) Grant for Program Year 2025-26 (PY 25-26)
Employment Development Department
The goal of this grant is to fund projects that focus on farmworker needs at a regional level by offering essential skills and upskilling training for farmworkers to either advance in the agricultural industry and/or prepare for advancement outside of the agricultural sector. This grant program is intended to address multiple existing and emerging gaps in the current workforce system for farmworkers. FAP PY 25-26 programs will position farmworkers to obtain access to good-quality jobs including jobs that pay family-sustaining wages, offer benefits, have predictable hours, opportunities for career advancement, and promote worker voice. Projects will also provide wrap-around support and resources to build skills to prevent job loss and lay the foundation for upward mobility. Funded...
View Official Source →Tribal Nature-Based Solutions Climate Bond 2026 Solicitation
CA Natural Resources Agency
This funding will continue to support the return of ancestral lands to California Native American tribes, planning and implementation of habitat restoration projects, protecting the California coast and oceans, advancing wildfire resiliency and cultural fire, and many other multi-benefit nature-based solutions projects across California. Please refer to the TNBS Climate Bond Final 2026 Guidelines for detailed information. Approximately $9.2 million is available for tribal multi-benefit nature-based solutions projects that will fund land acquisition or other fee title acquisitions benefiting California Native American Tribes. Eligible expenses include costs associated with the purchase of property rights, conservation easements, and water rights/instream flows consistent with requirements...
View Official Source →Paid Family Leave Small Business Grant 4 (PFL SB 4 Grant)
Employment Training Panel
The PFL SB Grant will provide to California small businesses (within the grant) equal to or between 100–51 employees a payment of $1,000 and a payment of $2,000 to small businesses less than or equal to 50 for each employee who is utilizing the PFL program, to help offset the costs involved with training other employees to cover the duties of this individual on PFL leave. The Employment Training Panel (ETP) and Labor and Workforce Development Agency (LWDA),announce the availability of up to $920,000 in California State General Fund dollars, for Multiple Employer organizations to outreach to California’s small businesses impacted by the Paid Family Leave (PFL) program, to help offset the costs incurred when training employees to cover the duties of the individual utilizing PFL. PFL is part...
View Official Source →Social Entrepreneurs for Economic Development 3 (SEED 3)
Employment Training Panel
SEED supports the entrepreneurship of immigrants and limited English proficient (LEP) individuals who face significant employment barriers. The SEED Initiative will provide micro-grants, entrepreneurial training, and technical assistance to support them in starting or maintaining a small business in California aimed at addressing a social problem or meeting a community need. In June 2020, the California Legislature approved Assembly Bill 82 (Chapter 14, Stats. 2020), which established the Social Entrepreneurs for Economic Development (SEED) Initiative (See California Unemployment Insurance Code, sections 14106 to 14110). The Employment Training Panel (ETP), within the Labor and Workforce Development Agency (Agency), is administering this round of SEED funding on behalf of the California...
View Official Source →Helping Justice-Involved Reenter Employment 2.0
Workforce Development Board
The California Workforce Development Board (CWDB) is pleased to announce the availability of approximately $9.5 million in funding for the Helping Justice-Involved Reenter Employment 2.0 (HIRE 2.0) grant program. This funding builds on past and current investments in the reentry population. HIRE 2.0 extends the CWDB’s portfolio of investments for California’s reentry population and represents the second cycle of the HIRE grant program. HIRE 2.0 aims to increase employment opportunities and job mobility for justice-involved individuals by supporting training, supportive services, reskilling and upskilling, and needs-related payments. This funding builds on the CWDB’s past and current investments in workforce programming for the reentry population. HIRE 2.0 funding is available only to...
View Official Source →Farm and Ranch Solid Waste Clean Up and Abatement Grant Program FR90
Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery
The Farm & Ranch Solid Waste Clean Up & Abatement Grant program provides funding for cleaning up and preventing illegal dumping on agricultural properties (CCR, Section 17991(d)). Each fiscal year has four application cycles, with the fourth serving as the pilot cycle. Cycle 90 (FR90) is the fourth and the pilot cycle. CalRecycle administers the program per Section 48100 of the Public Resources Code. The project sites eligible for the grant must be located on 'farm and ranch' property, encompassing both private and public land, where the owner is not held responsible for the illegal disposal. The definition of 'farm and ranch' property can be found in the Eligible Geographies section below. Grantees are given approximately two years to complete the project(s). The sites should be fully...
View Official Source →Proposition 4 – Wildfire and Forest Resilience
San Gabriel and Lower Los Angeles Rivers and Mountains Conservancy
Wildfire and Forest Resilience [Section 91520(l)]: may be awarded for projects that promote watershed improvement, wildfire resilience, chaparral and forest restoration, and workforce development that addresses needs related to this subdivision and is designed to create career pathways for individuals from disadvantaged communities, severely disadvantaged communities, or vulnerable populations The RMC awards grants and interagency agreements with the aim toward creating open space, habitat restoration, expanding green space in disadvantaged communities, and protecting the watersheds of the San Gabriel and Los Angeles Rivers, Dominguez Channel, and Catalina Island. The overall policy guidelines for the RMC are found in two primary references: the statute which created the RMC, Public...
View Official Source →Proposition 4 Grant Program
Tahoe Conservancy
The Conservancy's Proposition 4 program aims to support watershed improvement, forest health biomass utilization, chaparral and forest restoration, and workforce development, and to reduce the risks of climate change impacts upon communities, fish and wildlife, and natural resources, and to increase public access. The California Tahoe Conservancy (Conservancy) leads California's efforts to restore and enhance the extraordinary natural and recreational resources of the Lake Tahoe Basin (Basin). The Conservancy uses available funding to accomplish its mission and Strategic Plan through grants for land acquisition, planning, implementation, and monitoring on the California side of the Basin. California voters approved Proposition 4 (the Climate Bond), the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire...
View Official Source →Senate Bill 1 Sea Level Rise Tribal Cultural Resources Funding Program
Ocean Protection Council
The purpose of the Sea Level Rise (SLR) Tribal Cultural Resources Funding Program is to provide funding for tribes to assess and plan for the impacts of SLR on their ancestral lands, cultural sites, lifeways, and resources in a manner that is meaningful and beneficial to the tribe. This program offers an alternative and more flexible funding pathway within the Ocean Protection Council’s broader SB 1 Grant Program. The Tribal Cultural Resources Funding Solicitation is a dedicated grant opportunity under the Ocean Protection Council’s (OPC) Senate Bill 1 (SB 1) Sea Level Rise Adaptation Planning Grant Program. This program provides direct, flexible funding to California Native American tribes to assess and plan for the impacts of sea level rise (SLR) on tribal cultural resources, ancestral...
View Official Source →Sustainable Recreation, Tourism, and Equitable Outdoor Access Directed Grant Program (2025-2027)
Sierra Nevada Conservancy
This Grant Program aims to support innovative efforts to enhance, promote, and develop sustainable recreation and tourism opportunities and increase access for all to public lands in the Sierra-Cascade region. Program goals include improving access to nature and outdoor recreation opportunities, reducing impacts of overuse on natural and cultural resources, and supporting the development of sustainable recreation economies. Proposition 68 recognizes the critical importance of recreation and tourism to California’s economy and ecology and specifically directs funds to be used to support and expand recreation economies, opportunities, and access to outdoor recreation. Projects must fall within one of the following three focus areas to be considered for funding: 1. Build Climate...
View Official Source →Proposition 4 Wildfire
Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy
To improve local fire prevention capacity, enhance forest health and resilience, or reduce the risk of wildfire spreading from wildlands into populated areas. Projects funded under the Fire category must fall within Chapter 3 of Proposition 4, focused on Wildfire and Forest Resilience. To qualify, projects must meet Section 91520, and include at least one purpose listed in Section 91520(j). Eligible activities may improve local fire prevention capacity, enhance forest health and resilience, or reduce the risk of wildfire spreading from wildlands into populated areas. In addition, each project must address at least one of the following: watershed improvement, wildfire resilience, chaparral or forest restoration, or workforce development. Proposition 4 Wildfire
View Official Source →Lower American River Conservancy Program
Wildlife Conservation Board
The Program was created to provide a state partner to work cooperatively with local agencies, particularly the County of Sacramento in its role as the manager of the American River Parkway (Parkway) and nonprofit organizations to help fund projects and provide grants to restore, enhance, interpret, protect, and improve public access to the Parkway’s natural, recreational, educational, and cultural resources. The acquisition, restoration, enhancement, and maintenance of fish and wildlife habitat and other natural resources, including resources impacted by wildfire, within and adjacent to the American River Parkway. The improvement and expansion of public access, recreational areas, and recreational facilities, including trails. The enhancement of interpretive and educational facilities...
View Official Source →San Joaquin River Conservancy
Wildlife Conservation Board
The purpose of the SJRC is to create the San Joaquin River Parkway (Parkway) to preserve and enhance the river’s extraordinary biological diversity, protect its valued cultural and natural resources, and provide educational and recreational opportunities for local communities and visitors. Activities eligible for the Program include: Property acquisition for resources conservation and public access Implementation of habitat enhancement and restoration of public or private lands All projects must be approved by both the San Joaquin River Conservancy Board and the Wildlife Conservation Board to receive a grant award.
View Official Source →