Best Fisheries Grants in Alaska

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The North Pacific Research Board (NPRB) invites proposals for the Core Program Grant, addressing critical fishery management and marine ecosystem needs. This competitive grant program supports research in the Gulf of Alaska, Bering Sea, Aleutian Islands, and Arctic Ocean. NPRB prioritizes projects that enhance understanding of marine ecosystems and promote sustainable fisheries. Proposals can be submitted at any time and may receive co-funding through partnerships, ensuring collaborative efforts in advancing marine sciences.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

The Alaska Sea Grant Biennial Research Call invites innovative proposals for research projects focused on healthy coastal ecosystems, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, resilient communities and economies, and environmental literacy and workforce development. Established in 1970, the program aims to enhance understanding and sustainable use of Alaska's marine and coastal resources. Proposals should align with the goals outlined in the Alaska Sea Grant 2024–2027 Strategic Plan, addressing priority information needs across the state.

The Northwest Fisheries Scholarship Program, managed by the Northwest Fisheries Association (NWFA), aims to support members' families in pursuing post-secondary education. Scholarships are awarded to qualified employees, their spouses, partners, and dependents. Each year, multiple scholarships, including the Bob Boroughs and Ted Evans Endowment Fund Scholarships, are available, with awards exceeding $5,000 for full-time students and up to $2,500 for part-time students. This initiative fosters education within the seafood industry.

The NPRB Graduate Student Research Award supports Master's and Doctoral students in the US with $26,000 each for research addressing critical marine resource management issues in the Gulf of Alaska and surrounding areas. Funded by the North Pacific Research Board, this award covers stipends, tuition, travel, and supplies, promoting sustainable use of marine resources. It aims to enhance understanding of ecosystem dynamics and fisheries management, encouraging innovative research that aligns with the NPRB's mission.

The THS Patricia Roppel Scholarship, established by The Alaska Community Foundation in 2015, honors Patricia "Pat" Roppel, an Alaskan author and historian. This annual scholarship of $5,000 supports undergraduate or graduate students majoring in Alaska history. Applicants must be enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited college, with a GPA of 2.9 or higher. Preference is given to those specializing in Southeast Alaska history, mining, fisheries, or timber.

Tad Fujioka Memorial Scholarship

A fund created in memory of Tad Fujioka to support graduates of Sitka High School, Pacific High School, Mount Edgecumbe High, or Sitka School District REACH homeschool. The scholarship will support college or vocational training in career choices that will help support the wellbeing and resilience of members of small Alaska communities.

Tad had great-grandparents who settled in Ketchikan in the early 1900's where his father learned to love fishing in Alaska. When Tad was one year old, he and his parents moved to Juneau, where Tad also learned to love fishing. After college, he moved to Sitka, where fishing was even better. After a stint of working in engineering, marrying, and starting a family, he got a salmon troll permit. He soon became involved not only in fishing but also in fishery policy and regulation, where his analytical ability helped to evaluate management proposals. His patience and diplomacy allowed him to effectively articulate ideas and solutions to problems he saw in existing conditions and propose measures, both in the management of the fishery and also in the processing sector, where he served as board chairman of the Seafood Producers Cooperative. He became a respected and effective advocate for the sustainability of the small boat fishing fleet, which supports the economy of many small towns and communities in Alaska. Commitment to serving his community included 20 years serving on the Sitka Advisory Committee to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, teaching friends and students to harvest wild foods, and sharing his harvest throughout the community and the state.

To honor his legacy, his family has chosen to honor Tad by starting the Tad Fujioka Memorial Scholarship Fund.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

THS Patricia Roppel Memorial Scholarship Fund

The THS Patricia Roppel Memorial Scholarship is a $5,000 award made annually to an undergraduate or graduate student who is either enrolled or intends to enroll at an accredited college and majoring in history, pursuing the study of Alaska. 

The Tongass Historical Society is a private, non-profit corporation whose purpose is to discover, preserve, and disseminate knowledge of the history of Ketchikan and Southeast Alaska for present and future generations. Established in 1961, the Society brings together people of all ages who share an interest in Ketchikan’s rich and colorful heritage. The Tongass Historical Society is actively pursuing the preservation of the information and items intimate with our unique part of Alaska.

This scholarship is in memory of Patricia “Pat” Roppel– author, historian, and Alaskan. Pat moved to Alaska in 1959, where she and her husband Frank grew to love Southeastern Alaska. Her numerous published works about Southeast Alaska spanned various topics ranging from business to salmon hatcheries in the area.

Pat is remembered as someone who was open and loved to share her love and knowledge with others. Her legacy is remembered in the awarding of this scholarship.

The Hansen Family Foundation Grant seeks to empower organizations that uphold the American values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Focused on diverse causes like children, education, animals, environmental conservation, humanitarian efforts, and arts, the foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that create positive change. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while political campaigns and organizations with high budgets or overheads are ineligible. This grant fosters impactful contributions to society.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

The 2026 Alaska Marine Education and Training Mini-Grant Program seeks to enhance workforce development in marine-related professions and improve seafood safety and management. This initiative encourages projects that foster technological innovations in fishing practices and promote outreach on sustainability and quality of seafood. By strengthening partnerships among industry, researchers, and communities, the program aims to build a competitive and sustainable marine community in Alaska, with all projects required to be conducted within the state.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

The Fisheries Innovation Fund's Electronic Monitoring and Reporting Grant Program aims to enhance fisheries management through electronic technologies. Administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), this initiative will support U.S. fisheries in implementing electronic monitoring tools to improve data collection, accessibility, and management. The program is open to various fisheries, including commercial and recreational sectors, promoting sustainable practices and fostering stakeholder involvement for better fishery information systems.