Best Grants for Preschools in Alabama

The Daniel Foundation of Alabama offers Special Project Grants aimed at substantial capital projects, new programming, or strategic expansions that significantly enhance community life. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)3 public charities and can only apply again after a two-year hiatus. These grants are not intended for ongoing operational costs. The foundation's mission is to support initiatives that improve the quality of life for Alabama citizens through healthy and educational advancements.

About Community Foundation of South Alabama

Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama, improving the lives of many residents in our corner of the world.

We amplify the gifts from generous donors through wise investment, support others in efforts to enhance our community, and lead and collaborate on initiatives which have a broad impact.

Scholarships

The more than 40 scholarship funds at the Foundation were created by generous donors who wanted to help the students in our community achieve a brighter future. We are committed to assisting the most promising students with scholarships for professional certificate programs, two and four-year undergraduate degrees and graduate school. The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, books, and fees.

Mary & Council Powell Scholarship Fund

For an entering freshman or currently enrolled student at Alabama A&M who has a minimum ACT score of 19 and 3.0 GPA. 

The Daniel Foundation of Alabama provides operating grants, up to $25,000, aimed at strengthening communities and enhancing quality of life. Key focus areas include early childhood education, K-12 academic improvements, adult life skills, arts and community support, and health services. Eligible organizations must be based in Alabama and meet specific criteria, including revenue limits and employee requirements, to qualify for funding to benefit local residents.

About Community Foundation of South Alabama

Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama, improving the lives of many residents in our corner of the world.

We amplify the gifts from generous donors through wise investment, support others in efforts to enhance our community, and lead and collaborate on initiatives which have a broad impact.

Scholarships

The more than 40 scholarship funds at the Foundation were created by generous donors who wanted to help the students in our community achieve a brighter future. We are committed to assisting the most promising students with scholarships for professional certificate programs, two and four-year undergraduate degrees and graduate school. The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, books, and fees.

Jack Edwards Scholarship Fund

The scholarship is for a full-time college student, majoring in political science, history, or related subject, who has at least a 2.5 GPA. The scholarship is an annual award and can be renewable. Financial need is a factor but not an overriding criterion.

The Legacy Environmental Education Grant Program aims to cultivate a legacy of environmental stewardship in Alabama. This program funds projects that educate and foster environmentally responsible citizens. Eligible applicants include public and private non-profit organizations in the state, with a focus on feasibility, audience reach, and sustainability of the projects. Grants are evaluated on criteria such as project goals, budget, and public recognition of Legacy’s support, ensuring impactful contributions to environmental education.

The National Sea Grant Law Center is inviting proposals for the Coastal Resilience Program to research laws and policies addressing coastal resilience challenges such as sea level rise and flooding. With a funding cap of $150,000 over two years, this initiative aims to assess the effectiveness of existing policies and promote informed decision-making in coastal management. Up to two projects will be selected for funding, supporting innovative solutions to enhance community resilience against environmental threats.

The NPN’s Southern Artists for Social Change Grant offers $75,000 project grants to BIPOC artists and culture bearers in Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi, fostering social change through civic practice. This initiative aims to empower communities by supporting collaborations that address local challenges, envision futures centered on racial justice, and enhance artistic practices. Launched in 2020, it has funded 28 transformative projects, promoting equity and justice in the arts across the region.

The Norfolk Southern Trades on Track SkillPointe Scholarship offers $5,000 scholarships for students pursuing trades education related to the rail industry. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in a post-secondary institution and focused on railway-related trades. With over 1,000 scholarships funded and a mission to close the skills gap, this initiative empowers individuals towards high-demand careers without requiring a four-year degree, ultimately strengthening the workforce and economy.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The Norfolk Southern In-Kind Donation Grant supports organizations seeking physical donations of materials that align with their focus areas, including safety, sustainability, workforce development, and thriving communities. This grant is available year-round, with no application deadline. Recipients must be located within Norfolk Southern territory and are encouraged to apply for resources that will enhance their community projects and initiatives, fostering growth and resilience.

The Edward Byrne Memorial JAG Fund provides essential funding for local law enforcement agencies to enhance their equipment and capabilities. With approximately $569,000 available, grants up to $24,000 can be requested for necessary upgrades or replacements. Eligible applicants must be local governments or tribal organizations with active law enforcement departments and must comply with reporting standards. This initiative aims to support crime prevention and improve public safety through enhanced law enforcement resources.

The Alabama Sports Officials Foundation Scholarship is designed to support Alabama sports officials and their families in pursuing higher education. This one-time award assists students enrolled in accredited institutions in Alabama, covering tuition, housing, supplies, and fees. Funded by the Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama, the scholarship aims to recognize the contributions of sports officials while encouraging applicants to seek additional financial resources.

The Alabama State University Anniston/Calhoun County Alumni Scholarship Fund aims to support African American graduating seniors from Calhoun County who plan to attend Alabama State University. Established by the ASU Alumni, this fund reflects a commitment to education and community enhancement. It provides one-time scholarships for students pursuing associate or bachelor’s degrees, or approved workforce training programs, ensuring they receive necessary financial assistance for their educational journey.

The Anna Satcher Scholarship Support Fund provides financial assistance to graduating seniors of Mt. Liberty Baptist Church in Anniston, Alabama. Established in memory of Wilmer and Anna Satcher, this fund supports students pursuing higher education or approved workforce training programs. The scholarship is renewable for four years, contingent upon maintaining eligibility. It covers tuition, housing, and other educational expenses, but availability may vary based on the fund's income. Interested students should contact the Community Foundation for details.

The Guin-Stanford Scholarship Fund, established by The University Church of Christ, honors J. Foy Guin, Jr. and his family. It supports graduate students pursuing a Juris Doctor at the University of Alabama School of Law or teachers seeking graduate education degrees. Applicants must demonstrate a Christian lifestyle through church involvement. Awards vary annually based on fund availability and can cover tuition, housing, and supplies. Recipients should explore additional financial resources as future funding is not guaranteed.

The Harry M. and Edel Y. Ayers Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama, honors the founders of Consolidated Publishing Company, Inc. This scholarship supports individuals pursuing associate or bachelor's degrees, as well as approved workforce training programs in Alabama. It is a one-time award available for part-time and full-time students at accredited institutions in the U.S., covering tuition, housing, supplies, and fees based on available assets.

The Jean L. Phillips Auburn University Scholarship Fund, established by Auburn alumna Jean L. Phillips, aims to support local students from Calhoun County in their pursuit of higher education at Auburn University. This renewable scholarship covers tuition, room and board, and fees for full-time students in any academic discipline. Funded by Phillips' gratitude for her education, it encourages recipients to give back to their community. The award amount may vary annually based on available assets.

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

The Alabama Power Foundation offers Classroom Grants aimed at enhancing educational environments in schools across Alabama. With grants up to $1,000, teachers can obtain necessary materials for classrooms or support COVID-19 relief efforts. Eligible applicants include schools and nonprofits partnering with local education systems, focusing on addressing mental health needs and financial hardships. The foundation aims to ensure that all students have access to a conducive learning atmosphere, fostering equity in education.

The Alabama Power Foundation's Power to Play Grants aim to enhance student success through athletics, arts, and music. With a focus on equitable access, these grants support schools and organizations in creating opportunities for K-12 students. By facilitating extracurricular involvement, the program fosters improved academic performance and graduation rates. Eligible applicants include Title I schools and 501(c)(3) organizations, with funding directed towards new sports, arts programs, and music initiatives, ultimately enriching the educational experience for students across Alabama.

The Alabama Power Foundation's Students to Stewards Grants support schools in Alabama by providing up to $3,500 for environmental education initiatives. This funding enhances conservation learning and creates outdoor classrooms, crucial for teaching students about preserving natural resources. Additionally, the grants can facilitate safe learning environments during COVID-19, ensuring students can continue their education while adhering to social distancing guidelines. This program empowers future generations to appreciate and care for Alabama's rich natural heritage.

The Queer Mobilization Fund (QMF) supports community-led projects that advance Queer and Trans liberation, particularly for BIPOC individuals in the Southeastern US. Established in 2016, QMF prioritizes grassroots organizations with budgets under $300,000. The fund emphasizes rapid response funding and capacity building, aiming to empower marginalized communities often excluded from financial support. QMF does not fund groups outside the Southeast or for-profit activities, ensuring resources are directed towards those leading efforts for LGBTQ+ rights.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.

• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Safety First Grant Program aims to enhance community safety across its 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, it supports organizations that provide safety services or promote safe behavior. This program reflects Norfolk Southern's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, empowering employees to engage locally. By investing in safety and workforce development, Norfolk Southern fosters thriving communities, demonstrating its dedication to social responsibility and community well-being.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Thriving Communities Grant Program supports initiatives that promote sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience across a 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, the program aims to foster economic development and ensure equal access to basic necessities. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt nonprofits, government entities, and public schools, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in their community-focused efforts.

The Josh Turner Scholarship Fund for the Arts, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, empowers high school seniors from rural areas across ten southern states to pursue careers in music and the arts. This fund honors Josh Turner's journey in the music industry and aims to support students focusing on diverse opportunities within the music business, including performance, writing, and production, as well as various art disciplines.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, led by the National Arbor Day Foundation, empowers colleges to cultivate vibrant green spaces while enhancing student well-being. By meeting five essential standards, campuses can achieve recognition for their commitment to sustainability. This initiative not only fosters environmental stewardship but also promotes mental health and physical activity among students, creating a healthier campus environment. Join the movement to enhance your campus and community through tree planting and care.