Best Financial Assistance Grants in Alabama

American College Of Sports Medicine Foundation Inc

ACSM is the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world, with nearly 50,000 international, national and regional members and certified fitness professionals.

Our Mission: To educate and empower professionals to advance the science and practice of health and human performance.

GSSI Pathways in Sports Science Award | Graduate Student Research & Mentorship Award

GSSI celebrates the passion, resilience, and academic excellence of first-generation college students pursuing graduate degrees in exercise physiology, sports science, kinesiology, and/or sports nutrition. Designed to empower emerging leaders in the field, the award recognizes individuals who are breaking new ground, not only in their families but in the science of human performance.

In addition to research funding, to help promote professional development, award winners will receive one year of 1:1 mentorship from a GSSI scientist. Award winners will also receive complementary registration to ACSM’s 2027 Annual Meeting in Indianapolis, IN.

ACSM requires award winners to:   

• Submit official transcripts if selected as an award winner, 
• Attend the 2027 ACSM Annual Meeting in Indianapolis, IN. 
• Present funded research at a future ACSM Annual Meeting, and   
• Send ACSM a copy of any publications or presentations related to the funded research. 

Delta Foundation Grant

Fund Description: The Delta Foundation believes that small positive changes can have a much larger impact, especially those made in effort to transform our communities. Our quality of life priorities include those that can not only provide tools and services, but will leave an ever-lasting impact. 

Focus Areas: 

Arts & Education: Programs are established outside of primary or secondary schools and work with the community by providing educational or art-related services. These programs can vary in their target audience and content.

Health & Wellness: Programs that serve the community by providing tools or services that better those with emotional, environmental, financial, social, or physical needs. These programs focus on the overall wellness of their target audience.

Basic Needs: Programs that address the basic needs of the community, including but not limited to: food, shelter, clothing, hygiene, and tools for long term success. These programs can be broad or specific in the services they provide.

Grant Amount:

Grants are typically $5,000; however, amounts may fluctuate based on employee contributions.

The AAD Shade Structure Grant Program provides funding up to $8,000 for non-profit organizations and public schools to install shade structures, promoting sun safety for children and teenagers. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to sun safety, including a year-long awareness program, and submit a letter of recommendation from an AAD dermatologist. The program aims to enhance outdoor safety, supported by donations from members and organizations.

The AGA: Caroline Craig Augustyn & Damian Augustyn Award in Digestive Cancer offers $40,000 for one year to early career investigators holding a career development award focused on digestive cancer research. This grant aims to support innovative studies in pathogenesis, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Applicants must provide evidence of their current awards, a recommendation letter, and demonstrate how the AGA funding will facilitate their transition to independence in research.

Scholarships

We partner with donors to administer scholarships for students across the state. Most NCCF scholarships open for applications on Dec. 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026.

Undergraduates, graduates, medical and professional school students and adult re-entry students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities, career/technical schools, teaching credential programs and graduate, medical or professional schools in the United States are eligible for scholarships offered at NCCF.

Each scholarship has specific eligibility requirements defined by the donor when the scholarship was established. Be sure to read the requirements of each scholarship carefully as directed through the universal application and address those elements as needed in your application.

Baronowski Family STEM Scholarship

Female graduates of a Brunswick County, NC, high school who plan to attend or currently attend a qualified institution of higher learning, including a college, university or community college, to pursue a degree in one of the STEM disciplines (Science, Engineering, Technology, or Math).

The Parkinson's Foundation offers Community Grants to support impactful programs for people with Parkinson's disease across the U.S. With over $5 million awarded in the last three years, the Foundation aims to enhance health, wellness, and education. Eligible applicants include local non-profits and healthcare facilities focusing on mental health, care partner support, and exercise programs tailored for PD. This initiative promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in service delivery.

The AHA Quest for Quality Prize recognizes hospitals and health systems that demonstrate exceptional leadership in improving care quality and advancing health. Applicants should showcase innovative models of care and effective partnerships with community organizations. One winner and two finalists will be honored at the 2026 AHA Leadership Summit in Denver. This award aims to inspire hospitals to commit to patient-centered care and address healthcare disparities, ultimately enhancing community health outcomes.

The Technical Assistance and Training Grant Program by the USDA's Rural Utilities Service provides funding for essential technical assistance and training aimed at resolving water and waste management issues. This program supports applicants in preparing loan and grant applications, enhancing the operational efficiency of water systems, and ensuring compliance with best practices in facility management. However, grant funds cannot be used for duplicating existing services or for capital expenditures.

The Universal Application for Adults offers a simplified way for adult students in Elkhart County to apply for six different scholarships with one application. This initiative by the Community Foundation aims to support those pursuing further education, whether returning to school or changing careers. Eligible applicants must have a high school diploma and plan to attend an accredited institution. This program streamlines the scholarship process, making it easier for dedicated learners to access funding opportunities.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) invites applications for the validation of biomarkers and assays for cancer detection and treatment. This funding opportunity allows for biphasic or monophasic applications to support both analytical and clinical validation phases. Successful projects will leverage human specimens to develop assays that enhance cancer treatment and prevention, ensuring multidisciplinary collaboration among scientists and clinicians. This initiative aims to improve cancer management through reliable and clinically validated tools.

The Graduate Professional Advancement Grant at Montana State University provides funding for graduate students in their 3rd semester or higher to present at professional conferences. This grant encourages scholarly research and supports students by covering travel costs, up to $750. Applications are reviewed monthly on a first-come, first-serve basis, and funding is limited based on availability. Students must be in good standing and have their committee on file to be eligible.

The Roesler, Max and Elizabeth Memorial Scholarship Fund supports non-traditional students aged 25 and older in Noble County, Indiana, pursuing higher education or retraining. This fund awards $1,500 to applicants enrolled in any accredited college, university, or trade school. Applicants may be full-time or part-time students and may reapply. The scholarship reflects the commitment of generous donors to invest in local students' educational goals.

The Linda Tilghman Healthcare Scholarship supports Noble County high school seniors enrolled in the Primary Healthcare Program at Impact Institute. Applicants must pursue a degree in healthcare and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.50. This one-time $1,000 award can be used for tuition and academic fees. To apply, students must submit an essay on their healthcare outlook and provide a reference from a teacher or employer. Funds not used for educational purposes must be returned.

BrightFocus Foundation offers Alzheimer's Disease Research Grants to support innovative research aimed at understanding, preventing, and treating Alzheimer's disease. These grants encourage applications from diverse backgrounds, fostering creativity in scientific research. The program includes Standard Awards for early investigators with a maximum funding of $300,000 for three years and Postdoctoral Fellowship Awards for young researchers at $200,000 for two years, promoting the development of independent research careers.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) is announcing a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for Diabetes Research Centers (DRCs). These centers aim to foster collaboration among diabetes researchers, enhance preclinical and clinical research, and provide access to specialized resources. Emphasis is on innovative scientific themes and collaborative projects in areas such as Immunology and Artificial Intelligence. Although applications are not currently solicited, potential applicants are encouraged to prepare for future submissions.

Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are accepted from mid-November until mid-March. Scholarship award recipients will be announced at the high school awards ceremony. 

Montrose Area Chamber of Commerce Pauline MacNeal Memorial Scholarship

Established to honor past Chamber member Mrs. Pauline MacNeal. Provides college tuition assistance to graduating seniors from the high schools in Susquehanna County, as well as home schooled or cyber schooled students, who reside in Susquehanna County and will major in a business related field.

Jacqueline Hall Minet Travel Award for Cross-Cultural Understanding

To provide financial assistance to a Brighton High School student or a Rochester City School District high school student so that he or she can participate in a travel experience that offers significant opportunities for involvement in a foreign-language culture.

Number and Size of Awards

Number of recipients and award amounts vary; maximum $2,000.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for expenses associated with travel abroad programs.

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Marion Rotary Club’s Warren Brown Scholarship

The Marion Rotary Club was chartered in 1922, as club number 1051, with 23 charter members led by Fred Guthery, the first president. The Marion Rotary Club, along with the Marion Rotary Foundation, which was incorporated in 1959, has contributed to many organizations and scholarships over the years.

The Marion Rotary Club Warren Brown Scholarship migrated to Marion Community Foundation in 2017. It honors the late Warren Brown of Wyandot, Inc. and provides financial support for Marion County graduating seniors. Recipients will have been a resident of Marion County for at least two full years and maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or higher based on a 4.0 scale. Special consideration will be given to applicants who intend to pursue an education and career in or related to business or management.

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Marion Rotary Club’s R.T. Lewis Scholarship

The Marion Rotary Club R.T. Lewis Scholarship migrated to Marion Community Foundation in 2017. It honors the late R.T. Lewis and provides financial support for Marion County graduating seniors pursuing an education in business, management, land development, real estate, or who will be attending the Marion Campus of The Ohio State University.

Born in 1877, R.T. Lewis became known as “Mr. Marion” for his grocery business, downtown and land development, and philanthropic efforts. In 1957, as Ohio State University began offering classes in Marion, he was among the first to create student scholarships. He also supported the YMCA and the Palace Theatre. He was among the 23 charter members of the Marion Rotary Club when it was formed in 1922 under the leadership of Fred Guthery, the first president. The Marion Rotary Club, along with the Marion Rotary Foundation which R.T. helped start, was incorporated in 1959 and has contributed to many organizations and scholarships over the years. Rotary honored Lewis’ contributions with the creation of the R.T. Lewis Fellowship, which recognizes members who contribute $1,000+ to the Marion Rotary Foundation.

Pfizer is launching a grant initiative to enhance care for patients with advanced ALK+ non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This program aims to support independent medical education projects focusing on patient and caregiver preparation for ALK inhibitor therapy, side-effect management, and the development of resources that promote informed decision-making and accessibility. By addressing the challenges faced by this patient population, the initiative seeks to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life.

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Marion Rotary Club’s Karl W. Schell Scholarship

The Marion Rotary Club was chartered in 1922, as club number 1051, with 23 charter members led by Fred Guthery, the first president. The Marion Rotary Club, along with the Marion Rotary Foundation, which was incorporated in 1959, has contributed to many organizations and scholarships over the years.

The Marion Rotary Club Karl W. Schell Scholarship migrated to Marion Community Foundation in 2017. It honors the late Karl Schell and provides financial support for Marion County graduating seniors. Recipients will have been a resident of Marion County for at least two full years and maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.5 or higher based on a 4.0 scale.

Special consideration will be given to applicants who intend to pursue an education and career in, or related to, business, management, or the real estate industry.

Beckley Area Foundation

Beckley Area Foundation was established in January 1985 by ten community-minded citizens. It began with a gift of $1.1 million from the Dr. Thomas Walker Memorial Health Foundation as “seed” money for this Raleigh County project. BAF assets have grown to over $70 million with over 500 different funds managed by our three trustee banks. Today, Beckley Area Foundation is one of West Virginia’s largest community foundations.

Since its inception, BAF has distributed over $23 million to charities and other worthy projects in the fields of education, public recreation, health & human services, the arts, animal services and beautification.

Scholarships

The Beckley Area Foundation proudly manages scholarship funds established by individuals, businesses, and organizations dedicated to helping students pursue higher education. Many of these scholarships are tailored for specific schools, fields of study, or graduates from local high schools, while others offer broader opportunities. No matter the path, our scholarships aim to support students from our region as they work toward achieving their educational goals.

Most of these scholarships must be awarded to students from our geographic area or at least preference given to such students. While the majority of scholarships benefit Raleigh County applicants there are others designated for Fayette, Summers, Webster, and Wyoming students. 

Owen C. Meadows and Brenda J. Meadows Scholarship

Must be resident of Raleigh County; Pursuing an accredited nursing program (including technical, baccalaureate or advanced nursing education programs); Merit and need based.​

This scholarship is not renewable.

Pfizer, in collaboration with the American Headache Society, invites innovative proposals for quality improvement initiatives targeting gaps in headache medicine. The focus is on enhancing patient outcomes through effective diagnosis, treatment, and management strategies, as well as education in medical training. This grant aims to develop widely usable tools and information that promote patient-centered care and equity for those affected by migraine and headache disorders.

The Open Ocean Research Grant Program, funded by Global Fishing Watch Inc, aims to enhance ocean governance through data sharing on human activity at sea. It invites researchers to improve technologies for better governance, offering up to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for small groups. This initiative strengthens the community of practice and optimizes Global Fishing Watch datasets to maximize their impact on ocean conservation efforts.

Who We Are

Buiding a stronger, More Vibrant Community

For over 70 years, the Scranton Area Community Foundation has served Northeastern Pennsylvania as a steward of charitable resources, a grantmaker, and a catalyst for positive change. Guided by our core values of collaboration, trust, integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, we work to ensure that our communities thrive with opportunities for all.

This scholarship is awarded to a female or female-identified student from a high school in Lackawanna, Luzerne, Pike, Susquehanna, Wayne, or Wyoming county who has 50 or more documented volunteer hours and and who has a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Dr. Jeffrey Hanson Memorial Scholarship

To support those pursuing careers in medicine, particularly primary care. 

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $2,750; paid in one lump sum in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.  

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

The grant mechanism will focus on furthering the development of strategies towards improving the outcomes of Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) patients through patient advocacy. Work supported through this mechanism will address important areas of need across the entire care continuum and have the immediate potential to increase research efforts, quality of life and survivorship. The overarching theme of the proposals should be centered around using patient advocacy as a tool to develop strategies toward improving outcomes for patients with SCLC. We will encourage applications on a wide variety of topics related to SCLC, including but not limited to the following:

• Patient-Centric Care Models
  • Develop and implement care models that prioritize patient needs and preferences, integrating innovative approaches from diagnosis through survivorship
• Advanced Screening and Diagnostic Technologies
  • Create comprehensive survivorship care plans addressing long-term healthcare needs, focusing on follow-up care, monitoring for recurrence, and managing chronic side effects

• Access and Equity
  • Investigate barriers to accessing quality care, clinical trials, screening and biomarker testing for SCLC patients and purpose solutions to ensure equitable healthcare delivery for diverse populations

• Technology Integration
  • Explore the use of digital health tools and technologies to facilitate better patient-provider interactions, personalized care, and continuous monitoring during the care continuum
• Patient Feedback Mechanisms
  • Establish robust feedback systems to gather patient insights and experiences and use this data to inform continuous improvements in care delivery, diagnostic technologies, treatment approaches, clinical protocols and accessible repositories to facilitate broad research collaboration

The 2026 Strategies Using Patient Advocacy to Improve Outcomes in Small Cell Lung Cancer will grant a minimum of one award of $250,000 for a period two years ($125,000 per year).