Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Alaska

The FY26 Kidney Cancer Research Program's Idea Development Award supports innovative research that enhances understanding of kidney cancer, aimed at improving patient outcomes. Proposals should feature a strong hypothesis and a detailed research plan, with team members experienced in kidney cancer research. A unique aspect is the Partnering Principal Investigator option, fostering collaboration between two investigators, ensuring comprehensive project development while allowing for distinct submissions. This award emphasizes impactful partnerships to drive advancements in the field.

The Joan L. Conroy Scholarship, established in 2024, supports Ph.D. nursing students dedicated to educating future nurses. It honors Joan L. Conroy's legacy, emphasizing her love for education and nursing. Applicants must have two semesters left in their program and demonstrate a commitment to geriatric nursing and home health care. This scholarship is funded by the Nurses Educational Funds Inc., a nonprofit organization that promotes nursing leadership through educational scholarships.

The Catalyst Award, offered by the American Lung Association, supports innovative research on lung disease and biology. This mentored grant provides $50,000 annually for up to two years, prioritizing novel projects with collaborative training plans. The American Lung Association aims to improve lung health and prevent diseases through research, education, and advocacy, focusing on defeating lung cancer and fostering a tobacco-free future.

The George C. Cotzias, MD, Memorial Fellowship, established by the American Parkinson Disease Association, supports young neurologists in their research and treatment of Parkinson's disease and related disorders. Funded at $125,000 annually for three years, this fellowship encourages recent graduates to develop their careers in neurology, ensuring they have the mentorship and resources necessary for success. The fellowship aims to honor Dr. Cotzias' legacy and inspire the next generation of leaders in neurology.

The Lois Lenski Covey Foundation offers the Bookmobile Grant to promote literacy among underserved children. Grants range from $500 to $3,000 specifically for purchasing books for youth from preschool to grade 8. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public libraries that operate lending bookmobiles. The Foundation aims to ensure access to quality literature, fostering a love of reading in disadvantaged communities while addressing their limited book budgets.

The RRF Foundation for Aging offers research grants aimed at improving the well-being of older adults and their caregivers. Established in 1950, the foundation has awarded over $239 million to support innovative projects nationwide. Grants are targeted at nonprofit organizations proposing research with immediate implications for adults aged 60 and older, with a focus on practical knowledge and dissemination to impact policy and practice.

The Frances Parker Rupert Memorial Fund for Music and the Performing Arts provides scholarships to talented students pursuing music or performing arts degrees. Established by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, this fund aims to support high school seniors from specific counties, considering their potential and financial need. Applicants must demonstrate their artistic abilities and articulate how this scholarship will aid their educational goals in a two-page essay.

The Cynthia Davis Sculco Scholarship, established by Nurses Educational Funds, Inc., supports nurses pursuing doctoral programs in nursing education. To qualify, applicants must hold a current RN license and be enrolled in an accredited nursing program with a minimum GPA of 3.6. This permanent scholarship, initiated with a generous $50,000 donation in 2012, honors Cynthia Sculco, a dedicated NEF Board member known for her leadership roles. It aims to promote nursing leadership through financial assistance for advanced education.

The Boomer Esiason Foundation Academic Scholarship provides crucial financial support to students with cystic fibrosis. This scholarship not only alleviates educational expenses but also recognizes students who exhibit resilience and academic excellence. Annually, the foundation awards scholarships to deserving candidates, ensuring they can pursue their educational goals without overwhelming financial stress. Eligible applicants must demonstrate strong character and leadership while maintaining academic achievement. With awards up to $30K for undergraduates and $45K for graduates, this scholarship is pivotal for affected students.

The Scott R. MacKenzie Foundation offers grants to support innovative genetic research aimed at advancing cures for diseases like cancer, diabetes, lung, and heart diseases. Only U.S.-based tax-exempt organizations with over five years of operation can apply. The Foundation emphasizes collaboration among research entities to enhance genome sequencing and disease detection. By funding these initiatives, they aim to foster awareness and progress in genetic research for future generations.

About the Bertin Family Foundation

Founders: Kim and Jennifer BertinAfter a successful career innovating orthopedic surgical techniques, devices, and implants, Kim and his wife Jennifer feel a deep sense of stewardship to dedicate their resources to helping others. They engage all three generations of the Bertin family in hands-on service and grantmaking decisions, fostering a shared commitment to giving back. Through the foundation’s work, the Bertin family seeks to strengthen communities, support meaningful causes, and inspire future generations to lead with compassion and purpose. 

NOW Grants

A limited number of grants are available for one time projects or programs that emerge outside of the standard review period. These grants are for $5000 or less.

Tree and Soil Research Fund Grant Program

The TREE Fund Board of Trustees is launching the new Tree and Soil Research Grant, made possible by a permanently restricted endowment fund supporting areas of research of interest to the landscape architecture community with special focus in the area of trees and the soils that support them. Projects are expected to be completed within one to three years, with a maximum award value of $10,000. No project may receive more than one award from this program. This grant will be offered every other year beginning in 2021.

Award amount:

• up to $10,000 (minimum $5,000) 

The Innovation Award by the American Lung Association offers $75,000 annually for up to two years, aimed at supporting promising investigators in lung disease research. With a legacy of over 120 years, the Association seeks to fund innovative projects that can significantly impact lung health. Eligible candidates must demonstrate prior excellence in their careers and have held a K or R type award within the last three to five years. This initiative fosters groundbreaking advancements in lung disease science.

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.

Lake County Fish & Game 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.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Irene Miller Memorial Nursing Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was created in memory of Mrs. Irene Miller of Caroline County. Mrs. Miller began her career in public health nursing in 1940 and joined the Fredericksburg Department of Health in 1948. In 1954 she became nursing supervisor for the planning district and in 1968 she went on to serve as a Virginia Regional Supervisor covering 14 counties and 4 city service areas.

By establishing the Irene A. Miller Memorial Nursing Scholarship Fund in her will, Mrs. Miller wished to support the further education of a Caroline County student or students who wish to pursue a career in nursing. 

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Jeremy Daniel Hawley Skilled Trades and Technical Education Fund

Humility and hard work -- this scholarship was established in memory of Jeremy Daniel Hawley, who personified these two ideas. A 2001 graduate of Fredericksburg Christian High School and resident of King George county, Jeremy was admired by friends and family, fellow students and teachers for his character and integrity, his community service and his strong commitment to Christian values.

Jeremy was not known for his academic success, but rather for his strong internal compass and his drive to be successful on his own terms. He completed a community college certificate program in heavy equipment operation and began working for a builder while taking business classes at night. In less than a year he had progressed to crew supervisor in his job, but in 2003 an automobile accident took his life before he could realize his dream of running his own excavation business.

This scholarship is intended to promote hard work, skilled trades and personal character in the name of Jeremy Hawley. 

The Joanne V. Pontier Scholarship, established in 2022 by Mary V. Insall, honors her sister, a dedicated emergency nurse. With a generous $50,000 donation, this scholarship supports emergency nurses pursuing graduate studies. Applicants must be enrolled in accredited nursing programs and have a minimum GPA of 3.6. Preference is given to doctoral students in nursing research. This scholarship aims to foster leadership in nursing and improve emergency care, ultimately saving lives and supporting families.

The Reel Change Film Fund is a five-year initiative aimed at supporting underrepresented film composers in the industry. It provides grants averaging $20,000 to assist US-based projects in production or post-production. Created by Christophe Beck and SESAC, this fund addresses the lack of diversity in film scoring, promoting inclusivity for diverse composers. Through mentorship and financial support, it seeks to elevate the careers of talented individuals from various backgrounds, enhancing the overall landscape of film music.

The NHLBI is launching a Limited Competition Small Grant Program aimed at NHLBI career development award recipients. This program supports researchers transitioning to independence by providing small grants for expanding research objectives or initiating new studies based on their prior work. It encourages applicants to form collaborations and develop impactful projects, although applications are not currently being solicited. This initiative aims to facilitate the generation of essential preliminary data and publications, aiding recipients in their K-to-R transition.

The RMD Music Scholarship, managed by the Northern Piedmont Community Foundation, offers a $12,000 renewable scholarship for graduating seniors from Fauquier or Rappahannock County public schools pursuing a music degree at an accredited institution. Eligible students must demonstrate leadership and motivation, and must audition in their senior year while providing proof of acceptance into a university music program. Renewal depends on maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.7.

The Huether/Gillan Scholarship, established by the Niskayuna Community Foundation, supports community-minded students from Niskayuna or its school district. This need-based scholarship aims to assist those pursuing higher education while emphasizing academic achievement and community service. Mr. Huether initiated this scholarship in honor of his parents, promoting values of dignity, diversity, impact, inclusion, innovation, and integrity. Interested applicants should contact Mr. Vince Bianchi for further details.

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. ACF also manages the Pick.Click.Give. program.

Sitka Legacy Foundation Grants

As an Affiliate of The Alaska Community Foundation, Sitka Legacy Foundation’s goal is to support projects that enhance the quality of life for residents of Sitka and surrounding rural communities, addressing immediate needs while working toward long-term improvements. 

We use proceeds from our growing permanent endowment to award grants that fund charitable organizations and programs. We seek projects that have the potential to impact a broad range of residents and show collaboration with other organizations.

Sitka Legacy Foundation’s Local Food Security Grant Program

Sitka Legacy Foundation is offering a special, one-time grant opportunity aimed at strengthening food security in our community. A total of $15,000 in funding is available to support projects that increase access to healthy, local food. This opportunity is made possible through a generous double match from the Alaska Community Foundation’s Nourished Communities program. We are accepting applications for projects that support local food security needs and programs in Sitka and Port Alexander.

The Hearst Foundation: Education Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that promote education across various levels, focusing primarily on higher education. With a minimum grant size of $100,000, the foundation prioritizes organizations demonstrating significant impact and sustainability. They support innovative educational models, professional development, and scholarships, specifically targeting underserved populations. Since the 1940s, the foundation has evolved while maintaining its commitment to fostering healthy and productive lives for all individuals in the United States.

The Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program (MIECHV) aims to enhance maternal and child health, promote early childhood development, and support family well-being. By providing voluntary, evidence-based home visiting services to pregnant women and families with young children, the program addresses critical needs in communities. Funded by the US HHS: Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), MIECHV empowers families through tailored support and resources, fostering healthier outcomes for mothers and their children.

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.

Bill and Sue Modrak 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.

Scott Cornelius Memorial Scholarship (Piedmont)

To honor the memory of Scott Cornelius by supporting students pursuing careers in sales, marketing, insurance or related business fields who demonstrate leadership and integrity.

This funding opportunity aims to address health and healthcare disparities in non-communicable and chronic diseases across Latin America. It encourages innovative, multi-disciplinary research focused on clinical epidemiology and public health policy evaluation. Collaborations should include key partners from Latin American institutions, fostering meaningful partnerships to tackle significant health challenges faced by U.S. Hispanics/Latinos. The initiative highlights multiple application deadlines for standard and AIDS-related grants, promoting timely submissions for impactful research.