Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Alabama

Simon and Donna Dragan Scholarship Fund

Created in 2025 by Simon and Donna Dragan, this scholarship will provide financial support to students enrolled in a trade school to further their construction skills and/or students pursuing a two- or four-year college degree in engineering or construction. 

Simon Dragan is a native of Vurpar, Transylvania, Romania. He came to the United States after escaping Communist Romania in 1969 and held a variety of entry-level positions in the Baltimore area before finding work with Williams-Scotsman, a distributor of modular and mobile buildings. Mr. Dragan worked in various roles at Williams- Scotsman, ultimately serving as Executive Vice President of Operations. In 1993, he purchased Whitley Manufacturing from Williams-Scotsman—a factory located in South Whitley, Indiana—and developed it into one of the nation’s leading manufacturers of modular structures. Under his leadership, Whitley expanded from a single facility into a nationwide enterprise serving diverse markets including education, healthcare, government, retail, and commercial sectors.

A visionary leader in the modular construction industry, Mr. Dragan was inducted into the Modular Building Institute (MBI) Hall of Fame in 2002 in recognition of his lasting contributions to modular design and manufacturing excellence. In July 2025, Mr. Dragan sold Whitley Manufacturing to Sunbelt Modular, headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. Grateful for the opportunities he found in the United States, Mr. Dragan has given back extensively to various nonprofit organizations and charitable causes.

About Us

Midlands Community Foundation (MCF) is here to serve and add value to donors’ philanthropic needs by providing them an opportunity to “invest in the power of community.” It is our goal to identify current and emerging issues, channel resources to address community needs, and help prepare for the future.

MCF Mission

The mission of Midlands Community Foundation is to be a catalyst for lasting impact in Sarpy and Cass counties and to give opportunities to organizations and individuals to pursue their charitable goals.

Scholarships Through MCF

Midlands Community Foundation is committed to the futures of communities in Sarpy and Cass Counties, and across the country. Supporting higher education of students is a direct investment in the futures of these communities.

John J. and Doris M. Buford Legacy Fund Scholarship Application Guidelines

The John J. and Doris M. Buford Legacy Scholarship is available to graduating high school seniors or full-time college students studying in the fields of Nursing and Pre-law.

The Fund shall annually distribute two (2) scholarships in the amount of $1,000 each.

The Bolger Foundation Grant is dedicated to supporting capital projects that enhance tangible property for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Grants range from $10,000 to $250,000, with a maximum project budget of $2.5 million. The foundation focuses on community empowerment through conservation, health, and education, while excluding revenue-generating and operational costs. Eligible organizations must adhere to strict compliance with federal tax regulations. The mission is to inspire and empower nonprofits to better serve their communities.

The Dave Caldwell Scholarship, sponsored by the American Water Works Association, offers a $5,000 award to exceptional undergraduate or graduate students pursuing engineering degrees in the drinking water field. This competitive scholarship honors Dave Caldwell, co-founder of Brown & Caldwell, emphasizing the importance of fostering future talent in water infrastructure and habitat restoration. Eligible candidates include female and minority students committed to improving water systems and ensuring sustainable practices.

Native Forward awards are allocated based on the financial aid information provided by the institution’s Financial Aid Office. Awards can vary, ranging from $100 to $30,000 per academic year.

Native Forward Scholars Fund members of federally and state-recognized Tribes as well as first and second-generation descendants. However, Native Forward Scholars Fund scholarship opportunities have different Tribal eligibility requirements and can be determined by submitting a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

Lynne Ruth Lafin Elmore Sucher Scholarship

This opportunity is provided to honor the life and legacy of Lynn Ruth Lafin Elmore Sucher.

The purpose of the Lynn Ruth Lafin Elmore Scholarship program is to provide financial assistance to eligible American Indian and Alaska Native graduate students attending full-time at an accredited institution pursuing mathematics, Medicine, or life sciences are eligible to apply.

This opportunity is a need-based award.

The AECOM Academic Scholarship, offered by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), supports graduate students pursuing engineering degrees focused on innovative solutions for improving urban drinking water. This $5,000 scholarship aims to invest in the future of the water industry by aiding talented students dedicated to enhancing water supply systems. AWWA emphasizes the importance of education in fostering the next generation of water professionals.

The Mary Lea Simpson Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Audio Engineering Society Educational Foundation, provides tuition remission for the final year of undergraduate studies in Audio Engineering or Recording Arts at a North American institution. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.3 or higher, demonstrate proficiency in recording or mixing, and be members in good standing of the Audio Engineering Society. This scholarship aims to support talented individuals pursuing a career in audio engineering.

The Global Technology Industry Association (GTIA) Grant supports nonprofits and schools leveraging technology to enhance lives in under-resourced communities. GTIA provides funding for innovative solutions addressing challenges like broadband access and educational equity. Eligible applicants are encouraged to apply, especially those referred by GTIA members. Key focus areas include educational technology, bridging the digital divide, and workforce initiatives that promote equitable access to resources and opportunities.

The Partnership for Transition to College Readiness Grant, established by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, aims to foster collaborations between high schools and local higher education institutions to enhance 12th-grade college readiness in mathematics. This initiative targets students identified as not yet prepared for college-level math, emphasizing forward-looking strategies that prioritize readiness over remedial approaches. Eligible applicants must include both high school and higher education faculty, with a focus on innovation and student success.

The Staff Research Program, initiated by the ARO, aims to enhance the professional skills of its scientific staff through collaborative basic research with external institutions. This program encourages hands-on scientific investigations in various fields, including engineering and life sciences, while ensuring the integrity of the ARO's mission. ARO scientists will not act as principal investigators on proposals but will contribute to research outcomes and educational activities, fostering knowledge advancement and collaboration.

The Chick-fil-A Community Scholars program awards up to thirteen $25,000 scholarships annually to students demonstrating academic excellence, community service, and financial need. In addition to financial support, recipients participate in a year-long mentoring and leadership development program. This initiative aims to cultivate future leaders who are committed to serving their communities, while also alleviating educational costs associated with attending accredited colleges or vocational schools.

The Fostering Support of Mathematics Learning for Multilingual Learners grant, funded by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, aims to enhance PK-12 mathematics education by promoting multilingualism. It provides resources for professional development and materials to support teachers in integrating students' languages and cultures into their math instruction. Eligible applicants include PK-12 schools and educators committed to equitable teaching practices. This initiative encourages innovative approaches to foster an inclusive learning environment for diverse learners.

Medina Sunrise Rotary Fund

Established by Medina Sunrise Rotary Club to provide scholarships for Medina County seniors.

Amount: Varies

• $1,000-$2,000

Number of awards:

• Varies

Renewal:

• No

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Palmetto Citizens Scholarship Fund

At Palmetto Citizens, we're committed to giving back to our members and community, beyond just providing low-cost financial services. We're excited to partner with the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation to award TWENTY individual members with a $1,000 Pametto Citizens Scholarship!

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation offers a General Fund Scholarship if you are not chosen, or are not eligible, to receive a Palmetto Citizens Scholarship. You are automatically entered into this General Fund Scholarship by submitting an application for the Palmetto Citizens Scholarship (cannot be awarded both). 

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

About NUFCU

Neighbors United Federal Credit Union is a federally chartered, not-for-profit financial cooperative, offering a wide array of financial services and products to meet our members’ needs since 1961. We are owned by our members, and excess income is returned to them in the form of lower fees, and more attractive rates.

Membership in Neighbors United Federal Credit Union is open to persons who live, work, worship, or attend school, and businesses and other legal entities located in the following counties in South Carolina: Greenwood, Laurens, Edgefield, Abbeville, Newberry, Saluda, and McCormick.

Neighbors United Federal Credit Union Scholarship Fund

With a Neighbors United FCU Scholarship, you have the chance to win the funds you need to start your college experience!  

Students can apply for the Neighbors United scholarship of $1,000.

Coming Together Diversity Scholarship Fund

Established by Coming Together, an organization created in 1993 to promote racial harmony and cultural awareness in our community, to provide scholarships for students in Akron Public Schools.

Amount:

• $1,200

Number of awards:

• 1

Renewal:

• No

Clarinet Scholarship & Education Program

The Clarinet Scholarship & Education Program seeks to honor Renna Clarinet Thornton’s philosophy and enthusiasm for education.

After graduating from Coppin State College with her degree in special education in 1972, Renna started her 40-year teaching journey with Baltimore City Public Schools as a science teacher and special educator.

Through the Clarinet Program, the Claude C. Thornton Foundation offers workforce development training, a $1,000 scholarship to collegiate students, as well as parent coaching 1:1s and workshops.

Mission

The Clarinet Scholarship provides awardees with unrestricted monetary and mentorship support to empower minority students through their academic journey, ultimately promoting exceptional achievement. The Clarinet Scholarship also serves to encourage awardees to continue utilizing inquiry-based strategies to gain the academics and skills needed to be victorious and productive within the community.

The Remy Fund for Pets and Animal Services, established by philanthropist Ken Jackson in memory of his dog Remy, supports organizations focused on traditional companion animals in Alabama. Priorities include rescue, spay/neuter programs, animal-assisted therapy, and educational advocacy. Since its inception in 2011, the fund has awarded over $500,000 to enhance the welfare of pets and promote humane treatment.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship.

Piedmont Advantage Credit Union (PACU) 

Headquartered in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and founded in 1949 within the aviation industry, Piedmont Advantage Credit Union (PACU) serves member-owners, who reside, work, worship, attend school or operate a business in one of the six counties it serves in North Carolina or who are employed by one of its many employer companies. These six counties are Davie, Forsyth, Guilford, Iredell, Mecklenburg and Rockingham.

Piedmont Advantage Credit Union Scholarship Fund

For high school seniors and beyond, pursuing all kinds of academic dreams.

While there is no set limit on the number of scholarships awarded, we average six $1,000 scholarships yearly.

This scholarship isn’t just for high school seniors. It’s for any PACU member ready to take the next step with continuing their education. 

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Curis Financial Credit Union is also a proud South Carolina state-chartered financial institution, operating under the supervision of the South Carolina Department of Banking to ensure financial integrity and excellence. 

Curis Financial Credit Union Scholarship Fund

We are proud to announce Curis Financial Credit Union will award four $2500 college scholarships to help deserving students further their education.

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Bruce and Crystal Burgett Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Bruce and Crystal Burgett Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to assist Carrollton, Edison, or New Philadelphia High School graduates or graduating seniors majoring in an agricultural-related field of study. Students must demonstrate above-average academic achievement and a history of participation in extracurricular, civic, and/or community activities.

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

The Arnold D. Ducanes, MD Scholarship, administered by the Decatur County Community Foundation, supports Greensburg Community High School graduates pursuing post-secondary education in Allied Health. The scholarship aims to ease educational financial burdens while fostering community health professionals. If no qualified applicants are found, it may extend to deserving Decatur County residents already enrolled in the field. Notably, members of the Ducanes family are ineligible for this award.

About the Chester County Community Foundation

Our Mission

The Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with the causes that matter, so their philanthropy makes a difference now and forever.

Patricia Alleva DeHaven Scholarship Fund

Mission Statement

The Patricia Alleva DeHaven Scholarship Fund was established by the late William Thomas “Bill” DeHaven to honor his late wife after her long fight with cancer. Patricia was deeply loved by those around her as a loving wife, mother, second-mother to many of her children’s friends and husband’s coworkers, grandmother, and friend. Patricia was a biochemist for Merk & Co. while tremendously cooking and feeding anyone who came into her home. She worked as a volunteer for crime victims, raised money for veterans, and devoted much time to her church, St. Monica in Berwyn. The Patricia Alleva DeHaven Scholarship Award is presented annually in honor and memory of Patricia Alleva DeHaven who believed deeply in the value of Catholic education.

Epps Scholarship

The Epps Scholarship Fund was established at the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation by attorneys Willie and Mischa Epps to support the aspirations of college-bound high school seniors with an expressed interest in pursuing a legal education. This fund honors Dr. Willie James Epps, Sr. and Dr. Barbara Bacon Epps, both born and raised in rural, poor and segregated Mississippi, but excelled in school and became a part of the first generation in their respective families to attend college. Both went on to earn Ph.D.’s in the field of education and to teach at various schools, colleges and universities across the country. They instilled in their two children that faith and education are the keys to success. Their children became licensed attorneys who regularly attend church. Willie and his wife Mischa chose a non-traditional path to promote the scholarship opportunity by working in partnership with churches that disseminate the application and deadline information throughout their congregations.

The Epps Scholarship Fund awards scholarships to college-bound high school seniors based on demonstrated academic achievement, financial need, and an express interest in pursuing a legal education.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in equal payments in August and January. Each scholarship awarded will be a minimum of $2,000 annually to be paid in two equal installments.

This scholarship is not renewable.

Innovia Foundation

Each year, Innovia awards over $500,000 in scholarships to deserving students like you who are college-bound or pursuing vocational or technical training. Single scholarship awards range between $500 and $10,000.

Rika Ream Environmental Scholarship

Applicants must be residents of Spokane County who are accepted or enrolled as a full-time college student to pursue a degree in environmental sciences, environmental studies, ecology, recreational management, or land management. Previous recipients are eligible to re-apply. 

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Community Foundation of Henderson County was incorporated in 1982 by a group of fourteen dedicated and compassionate local leaders with the immediate need to manage two funds - the William C. Armstrong Scholarship Fund and the Charlie Renfrow Scholarship Fund, in addition to providing a permanent vehicle for citizens to give back to their community.

Our Mission is to help people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter. The Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

Jan F. and Harry J. Nolan Women’s Educational Scholarship

Applicant must be a female resident of the Henderson County area who wishes to pursue a college education. Applicant must be twenty-two years of age or older.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Good Teachers Count Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.