AWS Imagine Grant 2026: Funding and Credits for US Nonprofits

Nonprofits in the United States have a new chance to boost their tech projects with the AWS Imagine Grant 2026. This program offers funding and cloud credits to help organizations use technology in fresh ways. Whether you run a small group or a large one, it supports ideas from basic cloud moves to cutting-edge AI work.

What Is the AWS Imagine Grant?

The AWS Imagine Grant aims to make technology a key part of nonprofit missions. It backs pilot projects, proofs of concept, or programs that expand tech use. Open to 501(c) nonprofits across the US, it fits groups at any stage of tech adoption. Applications close on June 5, 2026, so now is the time to prepare strong proposals.

Three Award Categories

AWS offers three levels of support based on your project’s needs and tech readiness.

Pathfinder Awards

These go to bold projects using frontier AI like generative AI, agentic AI, or autonomous systems. They target groups with solid data practices already planning big ideas. The goal is scalable solutions that speed up missions and affect whole fields. Expect to build repeatable tech within one year.

Go Further, Faster Awards

This category funds innovative cloud projects with high impact. Think AI, machine learning, high-performance computing, or IoT integrations. These act as force multipliers to grow your work across industries. Projects must show clear potential for wide use.

Momentum to Modernize Awards

For basics like moving servers to the cloud or updating apps, this helps transform operations. It covers migrations, new app builds, database shifts, or infrastructure growth. Perfect for nonprofits ready to modernize core systems with AWS help.

Key Benefits by Award

Each category provides cash, AWS credits, expert guidance, training, and marketing exposure. Here’s a breakdown:

Pathfinder Award:

• Up to $200,000 in unrestricted funds
• Up to $100,000 in AWS Promotional Credit
• Hands-on support from the AWS Generative AI Innovation Center

Go Further, Faster Award:

• Up to $150,000 in unrestricted funds
• Up to $100,000 in AWS Promotional Credit
• Guidance from AWS technical specialists

Momentum to Modernize Award:

• Up to $50,000 in unrestricted funds
• Up to $20,000 in AWS Promotional Credit
• Guidance from AWS technical specialists

All awards include AWS training, support, and a shot at promotional features.

Who Can Apply?

You qualify if your group has 501(c) status in the US. This covers 501(c)(3)s, credit unions, public utilities, and similar. Budget size does not matter, and all mission areas welcome except educational institutions. Check your status and match it to one award category.

How AWS Judges Applications

Proposals get reviewed on:

• How new and creative the project is
• Its tie to core mission goals
• Clear results you plan to achieve
• How well AWS services fit the plan
• Strength and completeness of your submission
• Timely and correct formatting

Focus on these to stand out.

Steps to Apply

Head to the application page to submit. Review full details at the AWS Imagine Grant site. Start early to craft a detailed pitch that shows impact and AWS fit.

Frequently Asked Questions