Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Alaska

Wilson Ornithological Society

The earliest stages of the Wilson Ornithological Society’s development began with the formation of the “Young Ornithologists’ Association,” initiated in 1886 under the leadership of L. O. Pindar and J. B. Richards. They began as a corresponding group of naturalists interested in birds, with notes published in The Oölogist.

Soon after, the Society acquired a constitution and established itself in December 1888 as the Wilson Ornithological Chapter of the Agassiz Association. The fledgling group was named in honor of Alexander Wilson, considered the Father of American Ornithology. Its original purpose was “the study of birds, their nests, and eggs.”

Over the subsequent decades, the group—eventually becoming known as the Wilson Ornithological Club—published its proceedings and articles under a series of diverse titles, culminating in The Wilson Bulletin after 1894 and, most recently, The Wilson Journal of Ornithology. The Club adopted its Constitution and Bylaws in 1930 and became the Wilson Ornithological Society in 1955.

Early Professional Avian Conservation and Community Impact Award

The Early Professional Avian Conservation and Community Impact Award recognizes outstanding contributions by Wilson Ornithological Society (WOS) members working in applied, non-research careers that advance the conservation of birds and their habitats. This award also celebrates professionals whose work fosters a stronger and more inclusive conservation community, through management, education, communication, advocacy, or community engagement.

Purpose

This award highlights the diverse pathways through which people contribute to lasting ornithology and avian conservation beyond academic research. It honors those whose efforts build bridges between science, management, and the public; inspire action for birds; provide mentorship or leadership to build capacity; and promote equity, inclusion, and accessibility within the bird conservation community.

Examples of Qualifying Contributions

• Developing and implementing habitat management or conservation plans.
• Creating tools, educational materials, or outreach programs that promote bird conservation.
• Leading advocacy, communications, or storytelling that inspires conservation action.
• Building partnerships or community engagement initiatives that strengthen conservation impact.
• Advancing conservation policy or planning at local, regional, or national scales.

Award and Presentation

The recipient will be recognized at the 2026 Wilson Ornithological Society Annual Meeting, where they will be invited to share their work with attendees. The award includes:

• A monetary honorarium
• An original piece of artwork from an early-career artist
• Coverage of meeting registration, travel, lodging, and per diem expenses

The Mumford & Keller Grant and Scholarship Program, initiated by Indiana Audubon in 2010, offers financial support for projects focusing on natural resources and Indiana's birdlife. With grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, it aims to promote conservation, research, and education. Priority is given to initiatives targeting key species and habitats within Indiana. This program honors the legacy of Russell Mumford and Charles Keller, enhancing bird conservation efforts for future generations.

The Melanoma Research Resident and Fellowship Grant offers $10,000 to support early-career residents and fellows in conducting clinical or laboratory research focused on melanoma. This grant encourages innovative approaches to understanding prevention, detection, and treatment of melanoma, including special emphasis on ocular melanoma. Eligible candidates must have a qualified mentor and conduct research at a U.S. institution. This initiative aims to enhance the landscape of melanoma research and foster the next generation of researchers.

This NOFO invites applications for innovative research aimed at developing and implementing interventions to prevent and treat substance use disorders (SUDs) and overdose. It encourages studies that can rapidly advance candidate solutions towards regulatory approval or clinical use, while also addressing co-morbid SUDs. The initiative supports a wide range of research including basic, clinical, translational, and implementation strategies to tackle drug misuse and related health issues, such as HIV/AIDS.

The Goldberg, Joseph and Ruth Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, aims to support students pursuing medical professions, such as nursing, dental, and physical therapy. Established in 1987, the Foundation provides over $55,000 annually in scholarships to Beatrice High School seniors. Eligible applicants must be in the top quarter of their class and complete the application independently. This scholarship is part of the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the Beatrice School District.

The Aerie Real Foundation™ Community Grant aims to enhance confidence, inclusion, and sustainability among young women while supporting non-profit organizations in the US and Canada. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to programs focused on mental well-being, fostering inclusive communities, and environmental protection. Applications are accepted from certified 501c3 nonprofits, with funding allocated for projects that align with the Foundation's mission. The goal is to empower the next generation and create a positive impact in local communities.

The William Brewster Memorial Award, awarded by the American Ornithological Society, recognizes exemplary contributions to ornithological science through a significant body of work on Western Hemisphere birds published in the last decade. This prestigious award honors the legacy of William Brewster, a founding member of the American Ornithologists' Union, and includes a medal and honorarium funded by the William Brewster Memorial Fund. Nominations are open to all, fostering diversity in ornithology.

The Ralph W. Schreiber Conservation Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society (AOS), honors individuals or small teams for exceptional contributions to bird conservation. Recognizing efforts in applied research, habitat preservation, and educational initiatives, this award aims to encourage the scientific study of birds and promote ethical practices in ornithology. Nominees must be AOS members, ensuring a commitment to the society's mission of fostering a diverse and engaged ornithological community.

The Peter R. Stettenheim Service Award, established by the American Ornithological Society in 2018, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to ornithology and the society. This award recognizes those who have served in various capacities, highlighting volunteer work, mentorship, and committee involvement. It is named after Peter Stettenheim, a notable leader in ornithology, who was dedicated to advancing the field and supporting fellow ornithologists throughout his career.

The Marion Jenkinson Service Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, honors early- and mid-career ornithologists for their extensive volunteer contributions and service to the society. This award includes a framed certificate and recognizes individuals who exemplify high ethical standards aligned with the AOS Code of Conduct. The award aims to foster a diverse and supportive ornithological community while promoting bird conservation and scientific study.

The Ned K. Johnson Early Investigator Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, recognizes exceptional early-career researchers in ornithology. Awardees receive a certificate, a $1,500 honorarium, and complimentary registration for the annual meeting, where they can present a plenary. Candidates must have received their doctorate between 2019 and 2022, and demonstrate ethical standards aligned with the AOS Code of Conduct. This award fosters leadership and innovation in bird conservation and research.

The James G. Cooper Early Professional Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, celebrates the achievements of early-career ornithologists. Awardees receive a certificate, a $1,500 honorarium, and free registration to the annual meeting, where they can present their research. Candidates are evaluated based on their CV and a mini-paper. This award aims to promote ethical research practices and leadership in ornithology, fostering a diverse and dynamic community of scientists dedicated to bird conservation.

The Loye and Alden Miller Research Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, recognizes lifetime achievements in ornithological research. It honors the legacy of Loye Holmes Miller and his son Alden Holmes Miller, who significantly contributed to the field and mentored numerous students. This prestigious award aims to uphold high ethical standards in ornithology and is open to current AOS members, promoting a diverse and supportive community in bird conservation.

The Elliott Coues Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, honors exceptional contributions to ornithological research without geographic or disciplinary restrictions. This prestigious award includes a medal and an honorarium and is named after Elliott Coues, a pioneering ornithologist. The award emphasizes the importance of diverse nominations and aims to recognize individuals who have made significant impacts in the field of ornithology, thus fostering a vibrant ornithological community.

The Lasher-Bottorff Award, established by the American Association of Avian Pathologists, recognizes outstanding contributions to poultry health. It honors Dr. Hiram N. Lasher and Dr. C. A. Bottorff, pivotal figures in avian medicine. The award, valued at $1,000, is presented annually to a veterinarian who has made significant advancements in avian diagnostics or technical services over the past decade, promoting the health and productivity of poultry in North America.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Miller Family Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Michael K. Miller, who established the Miller Family Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Mason County. This scholarship is presented to instrumentalists graduating from Ludington High School.

The NIAAA Integrative Neuroscience Initiative on Alcoholism (INIA) aims to renew support for two research consortia focusing on the biological mechanisms of excessive alcohol consumption and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). By utilizing advanced technologies and fostering collaboration across multiple sites, this initiative seeks to standardize neurofunctional measures and enhance reproducibility in findings. Investigators are encouraged to prepare for future applications to this NOFO, which will utilize the U24 activity code.

The Science Policy Fellowship, offered by the American Chemical Society, provides a unique opportunity for trained scientists to engage in public policy. This program enhances understanding of the policy-making process, allowing Fellows to work alongside experienced Government Affairs staff. The Fellowship focuses on key areas such as federal research funding, education in STEM, and environmental policies. Candidates with a strong background in chemical sciences or engineering are encouraged to apply, regardless of holding a doctorate.

The Loretta Morris Memorial Grants support individuals with cystic fibrosis in California who wish to engage in physical activities such as swimming, horseback riding, dance, or golf. Established in memory of Loretta Morris, this fund aims to help recipients enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle. Applications are welcomed from both children and adults, promoting inclusivity and well-being within the CF community. Note that certain items, like memberships or accessories, are not eligible for funding.

The Eastern Bank Foundation (EBF) is dedicated to empowering communities through its Neighborhood Donations initiative. By investing over $16 million in local organizations, EBF aims to support vital services and promote equity in Eastern Massachusetts, Southern New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. This program allows contributions to non-501(c)(3) organizations, reinforcing EBF's commitment to partnership and community-driven solutions, with donations typically ranging from $100 to $1,000.

The See, Test & Treat Grant offers funding for a pathologist-led cancer screening program aimed at underserved communities. With a focus on health education, the program provides vital cervical and breast cancer screenings, ensuring same-day results and follow-up care. Eligible institutions can apply for funding up to $20,000 for single-year projects or up to $50,000 over three years. This initiative addresses health disparities, empowers communities, and enhances the visibility of pathology in healthcare.

The MMUF Dissertation Grant, funded by the Mellon Foundation, supports doctoral candidates who are alumni of the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship. This grant aids scholars in completing their dissertations, ensuring diverse perspectives are represented in academia. With up to $30,000 for a 12-month period, the program encourages candidates to secure additional funding from their institutions. The initiative aims to bolster access to education and foster understanding among varied backgrounds, ultimately enhancing the academic landscape.

The Mayer and Morris Kaplan Foundation Environment Grant aims to support initiatives that combat climate change, prioritizing efforts to reduce fossil fuel consumption and enhance climate education for young adults. The foundation emphasizes innovative solutions and partnerships to address both immediate and long-term environmental challenges. Areas of focus include climate and clean energy policy, as well as providing scientifically accurate climate change education. By leveraging data and research, the foundation seeks to empower organizations dedicated to creating impactful change.

The NIDA Mentored Clinical Scientist Development Program Award aims to foster research independence in clinician scientists by providing intensive supervised research training and career development in the field of substance use and substance use disorder. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization, ensuring timely submission for this essential funding opportunity.

The KTGF Fellowship Programs, funded by the Klingenstein Third Generation Foundation, offer $100,000 over two years to support post-doctoral and junior faculty research on ADHD and depression in children, particularly from low-income and under-resourced backgrounds. This initiative aims to foster promising early-career scientists while producing impactful research that benefits affected children and families. Applications are accepted from September 1 to December 15, with specific eligibility criteria outlined for candidates.

The Blake-Nuttall Fund Grants, offered by the Nuttall Ornithological Club Inc, support vital ornithological research, conservation, and education efforts focused on the birds of New England and the Northeast. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, while applications from individuals or private foundations are not considered. This initiative aims to foster a deeper understanding and protection of avian species in the region.

The BTCF: Simple Gifts Fund Grant supports young artists aged 13-19 in the Berkshire Taconic region, providing financial assistance for summer enrichment programs in the arts. Established in 1998 in memory of folk singer Bill Crofut, the fund aims to empower youth through small grants that can cover costs for tuition, art supplies, or living expenses. The grant fosters creativity and personal growth, ensuring that young individuals have opportunities to pursue their passions.