BNSF Railway Foundation – Grants Program | Support for Communities Along BNSF Rail Lines

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Organization: BNSF

About the Funder

The BNSF Railway Foundation is the philanthropic arm of BNSF Railway, one of North America’s largest freight rail networks. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that strengthen the quality of life in communities along BNSF rail lines, with a focus on safety, community development, education, disaster relief, and support for military families.

BNSF’s giving is highly place-based: priority is given to organizations directly served by or located along BNSF’s 32,500-mile rail network.

What This Program Funds

The Foundation supports a range of community needs, including:

1. Community Support & Development

Local civic initiatives
Neighborhood revitalization
Programs enhancing community vitality

2. Education & Youth Programs

Youth development organizations
STEM and transportation-related education
School district initiatives in BNSF communities

3. Health & Human Services

Food security programs
Services for vulnerable populations
Community health and wellness activities

4. Public Safety

First responder and emergency service needs
Fire, EMS, and police equipment or training
Disaster preparedness initiatives

5. Military & Veteran Support

Programs supporting active-duty military, veterans, and their families

6. Arts & Culture

Community arts organizations
Museums, cultural heritage, and local history programs

7. Environmental Stewardship

Conservation and habitat efforts
Outdoor access and environmental education

Capital projects may be considered but must demonstrate strong community impact and alignment.

Eligibility

Organizations must:

Be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public agency, school, or recognized tribal organization
Directly serve a community along or adjacent to a BNSF rail line
Demonstrate clear community benefit

BNSF typically does not fund:

Organizations outside the BNSF network
Individuals or personal support
Political or religious activities not open to all
National organizations without direct local impact

Funding Amounts

The Foundation does not publish standard award ranges.

Grant size depends on:

Project scope and impact
Alignment with BNSF’s focus areas
Demonstrated community need
Geographic proximity to BNSF operations

Awards can range from small community grants to larger multi-year commitments for major civic projects.

Deadline

Applications are accepted year-round.

Applicants should submit at least 90 days before funds are needed to accommodate the review process.

Geographic Focus

Priority funding goes to communities located:

Along BNSF rail lines
In states served by BNSF, including much of the West, Southwest, Midwest, and Pacific Northwest

Organizations not geographically tied to BNSF’s operational footprint are rarely funded.

Application Process

Visit the BNSF Railway Foundation Programs page
Review guidelines and geographic eligibility
Complete the online grant request form
Provide:
- Organization details and nonprofit verification
- Program description and beneficiaries
- Geographic location relative to BNSF rail lines
- Budget and requested grant amount
Submit year-round
Applications are reviewed by BNSF regional leadership and the Foundation team