Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Arkansas

The Arthur L. and Elaine V. Johnson Foundation Grants, established in 1990, aim to support organizations that assist individuals with physical disabilities through guide dogs and other assistance animals. The foundation also prioritizes wildlife conservation efforts, particularly for endangered species and their habitats. Grants are awarded to charitable organizations under specific IRS classifications, focusing on long-term impactful projects. Applications for ongoing operational funding are discouraged, and priority is given to conservation activities that are science-based.

Our Story

Established over 50 years ago, our founders redefined local philanthropy, fostering connections around a shared sense of place and purpose. As Virginia's largest community foundation, we bring people together to pool resources, co-create solutions and align actions for impactful change in the Richmond region.

Scholarships are offered to students living in the Richmond region and other Virginia locations. Each scholarship was established by a generous individual, family, or organization with a desire to assist high school students, recent high school graduates, and adult learners to continue their education. 

Claude V. Simmons Scholarship

The Claude V. Simmons Scholarship Fund was established to support post-secondary educational opportunities for qualifying members of the Church of Francis de Sales in Mathews County, Virginia.

Awards

• $6,600

The Vascular Care for the Underserved Project Grants, funded by the Society for Vascular Surgery Foundation, aim to address disparities in vascular care for women. With a grant of $20,000, this initiative focuses on enhancing access, inclusion, and gender-specific research in vascular health. It supports innovative projects that aim to improve care delivery to underserved women and ensure equitable representation in vascular research, ultimately aiming to advance health outcomes and address historical exclusions in clinical studies.

The Undergraduate Development Program Advisor Travel Award, hosted by the Society of Toxicology, enables faculty advisors to attend the Undergraduate Development Program from March 21-23, 2026. This initiative aims to familiarize advisors with toxicology and encourage them to guide students toward careers in biomedical sciences. Recipients of the award will participate in educational sessions, networking opportunities, and receive support for travel-related expenses, fostering diversity and innovation within the field.

The Frederick Douglass Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, provides financial support to deserving students of African-American descent graduating from Erie High School or NW PA Collegiate Academy. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0. In 2023, over $800,000 was awarded to help more than 500 students pursue their post-secondary education. This scholarship aims to empower young individuals in their educational journeys and promote diversity in higher education.

The Gerry & Sherry Fortner Education Endowed Scholarship, established by former teachers Gerry and Sherry Fortner, supports Hamilton County students pursuing a degree in education. This scholarship reflects the Fortners' commitment to fostering educational opportunities for local youth, ensuring that every student has access to resources necessary for their academic success. Preference is given to students from Hamilton Heights, Noblesville, Sheridan, and Westfield High Schools, continuing the legacy of the Fortners' passion for education.

The BJA FY 2026 Tribal Civil and Criminal Legal Assistance Program offers vital funding to support legal assistance for tribal members and justice systems in rural areas of the U.S. This initiative aims to enhance legal services where they are scarce, providing training and technical assistance for tribal courts and justice operations. Key focuses include veterans' legal aid, addressing Missing and Murdered Indigenous People, and implementing the Violence Against Women Act.

The Dale & Delores Willi Scholarship, offered by the St. Croix Valley Foundation, provides financial support to students from Hudson High School or homeschool programs who maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and plan to pursue music in college. This scholarship awards $2,000 per year for up to two years, focusing on applicants who demonstrate financial need and a strong passion for music, thereby aiding their academic and musical development.

The Music Teachers of Excellence (MToE) Award, managed by the CMA Foundation, recognizes outstanding public-school music educators. This prestigious award, with a $5,000 prize, aims to support teachers who inspire students and enrich their communities through music education. The application will open on September 3, 2025, allowing full-time music teachers with at least four years of experience to showcase their commitment and impact in the field. Stay tuned for more details!

The Elizabeth Nash Foundation Scholarship supports individuals affected by cystic fibrosis (CF) in their pursuit of higher education. Since its inception in 2005, over 200 scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 have been awarded to undergraduates and graduates at accredited U.S. institutions. The selection process considers academic performance, character, leadership, community service, and financial need. To qualify, applicants must have a CF diagnosis and be U.S. citizens.

Our Story

Established over 50 years ago, our founders redefined local philanthropy, fostering connections around a shared sense of place and purpose. As Virginia's largest community foundation, we bring people together to pool resources, co-create solutions and align actions for impactful change in the Richmond region.

Scholarships are offered to students living in the Richmond region and other Virginia locations. Each scholarship was established by a generous individual, family, or organization with a desire to assist high school students, recent high school graduates, and adult learners to continue their education. 

R.C. and Betsy Williamson Scholarship

The R.C. and Betsy Williamson Scholarship Fund was established in 2009 by Brad Williamson, their son, to honor his father and mother. R.C. Williamson was born in Middlesboro, Kentucky. He married Betsy Berry of Staunton, VA in 1949 and they moved to Richmond in 1950. R.C. spent his working career with the Natural Gas Company of VA, Inc. (MR ABLE PROPANE) until his death in January of 2008. R.C. passionately believed in the value of education and was himself the recipient of post-secondary scholarships.

The purpose of the scholarship fund is to support post-secondary educational scholarships for qualifying graduates of public or private high schools in the Central Virginia area. Scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate Christian values, financial need, commitment to their community and academic achievement.

This scholarship is available for up to a total of four years, provided you:

• Have maintained good academic standing.
• Continue to be enrolled in an accredited two-year or four-year college or university, community college or trade school in the continental United States.

Estmated Award Amount

• $3,500 year 1, renew $1,000

The Richard M. Fisher Memorial Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports students pursuing careers in construction trades and vocational fields. Established in memory of Richard Fisher, a dedicated public works inspector, this scholarship is open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students. By providing vital financial assistance, the scholarship aims to empower local students to achieve their educational and career aspirations, fostering a brighter future for the community.

The James G. Hewlett Memorial Scholarship provides financial support to Franklin County residents pursuing degrees in nursing or medical support fields. Established through James G. Hewlett's estate, this fund aims to assist undergraduate students, while also considering graduate applicants if no eligible undergraduates are available. The scholarship is managed by the Franklin County Community Foundation, ensuring that local students have access to educational resources and opportunities to advance their careers in healthcare.

Seeding Research, Networking, and Capacity Building at Minority-Serving Institutions

Introduction & Purpose

RWJF is committed to ensuring everyone has a fair and just opportunity to be as healthy as possible. To achieve this goal, we support research that examines the historical and systemic factors that cause health inequities. Some of those determinants are poverty, discrimination, and limited access to quality education, housing, safe environments, and healthcare. As attacks on data and academic freedom and ongoing funding cuts to federal health equity research and programs continue, philanthropy’s work to achieve fair and equitable health, including a more equitable research funding ecosystem, is more important than ever. While philanthropic support for Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) has increased in recent years, there is more to be done to rectify historical disparities in funding. 

This call for proposals (CFP) provides support to health equity research centers at MSIs to strengthen research infrastructure and capacity-building. Capacity-building will help develop staff, skills, culture, resources, and systems that enable research to happen effectively. Specific work that RWJF may fund under this CFP includes specific skill or methodology training; faculty release time; support for research assistants, advisors, and project staffing; mentoring, professional development and collaboration, and more.

Through this CFP, RWJF will expand its efforts to transform deeply rooted beliefs about which data and research methods are valued, whose perspectives are prioritized, and which populations deserve resources. By supporting the infrastructure and capacity-building needs of MSIs, this opportunity strengthens their ability to generate critical evidence and to cultivate transformative, actionable solutions toward health equity. 

RWJF believes in health equity research that is grounded in systems thinking; supports and disseminates evidence identifying and implementing structural solutions to racial and health inequities. This CFP seeks mission-aligned institutions to participate in cohort-style peer learning to advance their ability to engage in health equity research and apply for competitive funding opportunities in the future.

Although no single philanthropy can fill the gap left by federal funding cuts, this CFP demonstrates strong support for research, historically underrepresented researchers, and research centers that are positioned to pave the way toward a future where health is not a privilege, but a right.

The Foundation for Improvement of Justice Awards recognizes individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to improving the civil and criminal justice systems in the U.S. Nominations are accepted year-round, with winners receiving a Paul H. Chapman Medal, $15,000, a certificate, and an expenses-paid trip to the awards banquet. This initiative aims to encourage continued innovation in justice practices. Eligibility includes unique improvements to justice systems, while future project grants and past awardees are ineligible.

The Mitchell Patrick Mielnik Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors the legacy of Mitchell Mielnik, a passionate hockey player who exemplified integrity. This scholarship supports scholastic hockey players demonstrating excellence in athletics and academics. By fostering Mitchell's spirit of generosity, the foundation aims to empower young athletes to excel in their personal and professional lives, ensuring a positive impact on the community for years to come.

The Guyon Scholarship for Veterans, established by Ann Guyon in memory of her husband Bill, supports U.S. military veterans from specific Wisconsin counties. It offers a non-renewable $1,000 scholarship for college costs during the first semester. Eligibility includes being a veteran and planning to attend an accredited institution. Financial need is considered, ensuring that the scholarship benefits those who require support for their educational pursuits.

The Esther Roth Gillette Registered Nurse Scholarship, established by The Dayton Foundation in 2017, supports students enrolled in accredited nursing programs. This scholarship aims to empower future nurses by providing financial assistance to those demonstrating community service and financial need. The Dayton Foundation, serving Greater Dayton since 1921, is dedicated to enhancing local philanthropic efforts and addressing pressing community issues, making this scholarship a vital resource for aspiring healthcare professionals.

The SAVC Research Seed Grant, offered by the Society for Vascular Surgery, aims to support innovative research in vascular health. With a focus on quality improvement and actionable insights, this grant provides $10,000 to each of three selected recipients. Eligible applicants include SVS Active or Candidate Members and trainees in outpatient vascular practices. The grant emphasizes diversity and community engagement, encouraging projects that address health disparities and enhance patient care through various innovative approaches.

The Virginia Randolph Scholarship, established in 1963, honors the legacy of a pioneering educator in Henrico County. Managed by The Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond, this scholarship supports graduating high school seniors who demonstrate academic promise, community service, and financial need. It ensures a lasting tribute to Virginia Randolph’s commitment to education and helps empower the next generation of leaders in the region. Eligible students can receive tuition assistance for higher education pursuits.

The Lady Suzanna P. Tweed Scholarship, administered by the Coral Gables Community Foundation, honors Lady Tweed's legacy of supporting education and volunteerism. Aimed at students from Coral Gables Senior High, it requires excellence in academics and community involvement. Awards are based on financial need and can be one-year or renewable. Over $2.9 million in scholarships have been granted in the past decade, helping deserving students further their education at various institutions.

The SAVC Presentation Award, offered by the Society for Vascular Surgery, recognizes vascular surgeons who have completed clinical research in office-based or ambulatory surgical center settings. This award encourages innovative research on topics such as drug-eluting technology, patient safety, and health disparities. Three recipients will present their findings, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in vascular care. Applications are welcomed from SVS members and eligible trainees, emphasizing community engagement and impactful health projects.

The Betsy Frabotta Educate and Engage Scholarship for Q+ Youth honors the legacy of a dedicated educator and community builder, providing $2000 to outstanding LGBTQ+ and ally students in the Miami Valley. This scholarship supports individuals who demonstrate a commitment to learning and equity, encouraging applicants who are actively involved in advocacy and community service. By fostering inclusion and empowerment, this initiative aims to honor the fight against discrimination and promote a fulfilling life for all.

The Kerdyk Family Trust Music Scholarship, administered by the Coral Gables Community Foundation, honors students with a passion for music. Established in memory of Commissioner William H. Kerdyk, Sr., this annual scholarship is awarded to graduating seniors who demonstrate musical interest and academic success. Key eligibility factors include residing in Coral Gables and planning to pursue music studies in college. The scholarship supports students aiming for a career in music, fostering future talent in the arts.

The African-American Community Foundation - Waverly Glover Scholarship, offered by The Dayton Foundation, supports African-American students pursuing higher education at Central State University or Wilberforce University. Eligible candidates must be business or accounting majors with junior or senior status, enrolled full-time, and maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher. This scholarship honors Waverly Glover's legacy, promoting educational opportunities and empowering the next generation of leaders in the community.

The Tillie Odam Memorial Scholarship, established by John Odam in honor of his mother, supports Big Country high school seniors and alumni pursuing Health Information Technology or Allied Health programs. This scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, provides financial assistance to students enrolling in accredited vocational or college programs. Awards range from $500 to over $5,000, with payments sent directly to educational institutions for the fall and spring semesters.

Society of Hospital Medicine (SHM)

The Society of Hospital Medicine (SHM) is dedicated to promoting high-value care and achieving optimal outcomes for acutely ill patients. As part of this mission, SHM seeks to address inequities in acute patient care and contribute to a greater dialogue on this important issue. As the home for hospitalists, SHM activates and engages our community to

• Advocate for our specialty, our members, and the diverse patients we serve.
• Promote high-value care and optimal outcomes for acutely ill patients.
• Meet the evolving educational needs of a dynamic specialty.
• Cultivate an inclusive community for hospitalists and support career growth and wellbeing.
• Advance the research and innovation of healthcare delivery, quality, safety, and experience across the care continuum.

Society of Hospital Medicine Travel Grant

The SHM Global and Rural Health Foundation brings our mission directly to patients in rural and underserved regions of the United States and abroad by offering small travel grants to hospital-based clinicians and practice administrators involved in this work. The Foundation also aims to amplify the stories of inequitable patient care and celebrate hospital medicine professionals enhancing outcomes.

The SHM Global and Rural Health Foundation awards travel grants of up to $2,000 per person for travel to qualifying relief programs. Travel grants will be awarded to support travel for work conducted through established nonprofits, such as Doctors Without Borders, or a program run by a nonprofit academic health center.