Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in California

Generally the Community Foundation's scholarships are awarded to applicants who have high financial need. Applicants with household income exceeding $100,000 are less likely to be awarded, but applying will allow you to be considered for targeted scholarships.

Nika Marie Social Impact Scholarship

Open to students who are residents of Kent County and studying science, technology, engineering, math or arts.

Generally the Community Foundation's scholarships are awarded to applicants who have high financial need. Applicants with household income exceeding $100,000 are less likely to be awarded, but applying will allow you to be considered for targeted scholarships.

Mildred E. Troske Music Scholarship

Open to students studying music education.

About ASTS

The American Society of Transplant Surgeons (ASTS) was founded in 1974 by 127 surgeons to unite the professionals who were advancing the fledgling field of organ transplantation.

From this small group of dedicated individuals, we have grown to represent over 2,000 transplant professionals who are dedicated to saving and improving lives through the transformative power of organ donation and transplant surgery. 

Mission Statement

ASTS advances the art and science of transplant surgery through patient care, research, education, and advocacy.

ASTS-TransMedics Perfusion Faculty Grant

ASTS continues its commitment to provide qualified ASTS Members with research funding in the field of organ transplantation.

This research grant is intended to further explore the use of portable normothermic machine perfusion and its ability to 1) predict organ allograft function, outcomes and impact of reduced ischemia/reperfusion injury 2) increase of DBD and DCD donor organ utilization for transplantation, 3) rehabilitate organs that would otherwise be discarded, 4) increase access to organ transplantation, 5) revisiting historical functional warm ischemic limits in the new era of portable normothermic perfusion, and 6) be a platform for targeted therapeutic interventions during perfusion. Competitive applications for this grant could include, but are not limited to, investigations into biomarkers predicting post-transplant function, minimization of ischemia/reperfusion injury, elucidating the mechanisms of organ recovery during perfusion, optimizing and customizing perfusion protocols, understanding and overcoming barriers to utilization, and developing new applications of portable normothermic machine perfusion to solid organ transplantation.

 Funding includes in-kind support as needed.

Other Requirements

• The Awardee must attend the ASTS Grant Ceremony at the American Transplant Congress (ATC) to formally accept the grant.
• An abstract must be submitted for presentation at an ATC or ASTS Winter Symposium during the grant period or within 6 months of completion.
• A mid-report to the ASTS National Office must be submitted in the spring of the first year.
• A final report to the ASTS National Office must be submitted in the spring of the last year of funding.
• Awardee will be expected to present a brief review of the research progress supported by the grant at a future ASTS Winter Symposium

Generally the Community Foundation's scholarships are awarded to applicants who have high financial need. Applicants with household income exceeding $100,000 are less likely to be awarded, but applying will allow you to be considered for targeted scholarships.

Mathilda & Carolyn Gallmeyer Scholarship

Open to students who are residents of Kent County for 5+ years, studying fine arts and with a minimum 2.75 GPA.

Stanislaus Community Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students in order to help them achieve their educational and career goals. We believe that by investing in our students, we are investing in a brighter future for Stanislaus. 

Stanislaus Futures Scholarship

Open to current graduating Stanislaus County high school seniors participating in a college readiness and/or mentorship program and pursuing an associate’s or bachelor’s degree from an accredited post-secondary institution. Must be a first gen college student and demonstrate financial need.

Award Amount:

• $1,000–$3,000 

Stanislaus Futures is generously supported, in part, by an anonymous fundholder, The Arthur T. and Corinne K. Shields Fund, The Zwahlen Family Fund, the NOZ Fund, and the Virgil A. Farquhar, Jr. Trust. Scholarships are renewable up to 2 years.

Mission

To improve the health and healthcare of all residents residing within Stanislaus and Merced counties (19 specific cities and Zip codes) by increasing access to various healthcare services and educating people about healthy lifestyle decisions. Our objective is to dramatically improve the quality of life within the greater LHE community by bringing together resources, expertise, vision and the belief we can – and will – make a difference.

Jonnie York Nursing Fellowship

The Jonnie York Nursing Scholarship: The York Fellows

The Jonnie York Nursing Scholarship: The York Fellows was created to honor Jonnie York, RN, a former board member of Legacy Health Endowment and retired public health nurse for Stanislaus County. Her contributions across the Central Valley are indicative of the hard work and dedication nurses provide. Her leadership and servant’s heart for community wellness have helped close the gap in public healthcare, bringing community wellness to as many people as possible.

This fellowship program will allow Legacy Health Endowment to educate local students who want to obtain a degree in nursing and stay and work in our community. The fellowship will cover full tuition, books, and equipment up to $60,000. LHE will assist local students from the 19 Zip codes who have been accepted into an accredited Bachelor of Science Nursing Program or accredited Accelerated Bachelor of Science Nursing program (ABSN).

Upon completing their studies, graduates must return to work as nurses for two years at a nonprofit or for-profit entity within the communities the Legacy Health Endowment serves.

Our goal is to rebuild the Central Valley’s nursing infrastructure with individuals who grew up in the region and would be more inclined to live and work in the Central Valley, ensuring that all its residents can access quality registered nursing services provided by culturally appropriate trained professionals. The hope is that every local ethnic group will have students who want to become a York Fellow.

About Samaritan Health Services

We’re a nonprofit network of hospitals, clinics and health services caring for more than 290,000 residents in the mid-Willamette Valley and central Oregon Coast and portions of Marion and Polk counties. We work together to provide highly reliable and innovative medicine with world-class quality in a way that supports the values of the communities we serve. That includes caring for all people, regardless of their ability to pay.

Health Education Scholarships

One of the many keys to maintaining a healthy, prosperous community is ensuring a sustainable supply of excellent health care providers. To achieve this, Samaritan Health Services offers numerous scholarships to local students pursuing careers as doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners and physician assistants, as well continuing education or specialty training for current medical providers.

Each year, Samaritan awards more than $25,000 in scholarships for health care education to ensure the communities we serve receive the best care possible well into the future.

Nurse Education Scholarship

The Nurse Education Scholarship is intended to provide financial support for the continued education of an individual who desires to further their career in the nursing field. The scholarship’s purpose is to support caregivers and Certified Nurse Assistants (CNA) who are pursuing ongoing education. The funds will be sent directly to the college for the student’s tuition and other expenses. 

Stanislaus Community Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students in order to help them achieve their educational and career goals. We believe that by investing in our students, we are investing in a brighter future for Stanislaus. 

Richard & Dolla Squires Memorial Music Scholarship

Open to graduating high school seniors pursuing a degree in music and demonstrating financial need. 

Award Amount:

• $1,000 

The Pittsburgh Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four–year universities, graduate schools, and career/technical schools.

Louise Salinger Academy of Fashion Fund

The Louise Salinger Academy of Fashion Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships to high school seniors in Allegheny County who wish to pursue a career in fashion design.

• Award varies
• Award Type: Single-Year Award

The RNomics Molecular Standards initiative, supported by the NIH Common Fund, aims to enhance research on RNA molecules by developing standardized references. This program will facilitate the creation, testing, and distribution of RNA molecular reference standards, which are crucial for ensuring consistency and reliability in RNA research. By providing guidance on best practices and planning for long-term availability, RNomics will help advance technologies that analyze RNA sequences and functions, ultimately improving health and disease understanding.

The RNomics Outreach and Coordination (ROC) Center, established by the NIH Common Fund, aims to enhance understanding of RNA molecules through integrated analysis. This center will serve as a hub for data management and community engagement, developing a central data portal, supporting data standards, and coordinating consortium-wide analyses. By fostering collaborations and providing training, the ROC Center seeks to ensure the long-term availability of essential RNomics resources, ultimately advancing health and disease research.

The RNomics Technology Enhancement Centers, supported by the NIH Common Fund, aim to enhance tools for comprehensive RNA analysis, facilitating insights into health and disease. This initiative focuses on developing technologies for RNA sequencing, modification mapping, and functional testing. By fostering collaborations and strengthening existing resources, RTECs will advance the study of RNA molecules, ensuring broad community access to improved experimental and computational methods.

The Philip Keenan Award, presented by the American Orchid Society, honors individuals dedicated to studying or preserving native orchids in North America. This prestigious award acknowledges past accomplishments in these fields, promoting broader appreciation for orchids and supporting ongoing conservation efforts. Applicants can include students, amateurs, or professionals who demonstrate commitment and passion for orchid research and preservation, contributing to the sustainability of these beautiful plants.

The San Diego Kiwanis Foundation Scholarship, offered by The San Diego Foundation, supports high school graduates from San Diego County pursuing undergraduate education at local institutions. Eligible applicants must be full-time students at select universities or part-time in approved vocational programs at San Diego City College. This scholarship aims to foster both traditional academic pursuits and skilled trade careers, addressing workforce needs in the region while promoting educational opportunities for deserving students.

The Rubie Eileen Chapman Elementary Scholarship, provided by The San Diego Foundation, supports San Diego County residents pursuing careers in primary education (grades K-3). Eligible applicants are undergraduates at San Diego State University majoring in liberal studies or child development, who have completed at least one academic year. This scholarship aims to empower aspiring educators dedicated to enhancing early childhood education and fostering a bright future for young learners in the community.

The Reuben H. Fleet Memorial Scholarship, offered by The San Diego Foundation, supports high-achieving undergraduate students pursuing degrees in science, engineering, or mathematics. Applicants must be enrolled full-time at an accredited four-year university in San Diego County or, if a resident, at a university elsewhere in the U.S. The scholarship aims to empower STEM students who demonstrate academic excellence and community involvement, fostering future leaders dedicated to enhancing their communities.

The Faye Lynn Deckard Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Brown County Community Foundation, aims to provide scholarships for students accepted into accredited two- or four-year institutions. This fund supports residents of Brown County pursuing degrees in early childhood education, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their educational aspirations. Since its inception, the foundation has been dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for local students, reinforcing its commitment to community development and academic achievement.

The Walter Read Hovey Memorial Fund, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation in 1945, offers scholarships for aspiring art historians and related fields. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and plan to attend graduate school. With assets of $1.386 billion, The Pittsburgh Foundation supports various community initiatives, enhancing quality of life through charitable giving and educational opportunities for local students.

The Norman and Jean Persons Scholarship, offered by The San Diego Foundation, aims to enhance educational opportunities for U.S. Marine Corps personnel and their children, as well as young adults in San Diego County who have experienced foster care. This scholarship encourages access to higher education and vocational training, addressing financial needs while supporting the aspirations of military families and foster youth. Through strategic philanthropy, the Foundation fosters equitable growth and community resilience.

The Harry D. Poling Scholarship, managed by the Brown County Community Foundation, supports current and former 4-H members pursuing higher education or vocational training. Established to assist students from Brown County, this scholarship prioritizes those seeking CDL or vocational training, emphasizing financial need. Since 1993, the Foundation has focused on educational initiatives, providing numerous scholarships to local graduates and working closely with The Lilly Endowment Inc. for enhanced educational opportunities.

The Pittsburgh Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four–year universities, graduate schools, and career/technical schools.

Scott F. Hirsh Memorial Nursing Scholarship

The Scott F. Hirsh Memorial Nursing Scholarship was established at The Pittsburgh Foundation in memory/honor of Scott F. Hirsh to provide two scholarships for high school seniors in the Baldwin, Whitehall, Keystone Oaks, and Brentwood communities who plan to attend a 4-year college or university in a nursing program.

• Average Award: Up to $1,000
• Award Type: Single-Year Award

The Dorothy Stewart Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Brown County Community Foundation, aims to foster interest in public and environmental affairs. It provides financial support to graduates of Brown County High School or G.E.D. recipients who demonstrate exceptional citizenship and community involvement. Eligible candidates must pursue a degree in relevant fields, ensuring that the scholarship contributes to the development of future leaders in these critical areas.

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Condie Nursing Scholarship Fund

The Condie Nursing Scholarship Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships for both traditional and nontraditional students to begin or advance their nursing careers at a 2-or 4-year college or university.

Award Type: Single Year Award.

The Cindy Colglazier Scholarship, managed by the Brown County Community Foundation, aims to support students pursuing education in healthcare fields at accredited institutions. This scholarship is available to residents of Bartholomew, Brown, and Monroe Counties, including high school graduates, current college students, and G.E.D. graduates. The Foundation has a long-standing commitment to education and provides essential funding to help students achieve their academic goals.

The Carol D. Garling Scholarship, established by Carol D. Garling, provides financial assistance to students pursuing a post-secondary education who have completed at least 30 credit hours at an accredited institution. Offered by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, this scholarship is part of a larger initiative to support local students and promote educational advancement within the community. Applications are accepted annually from January to April 1st, encouraging both high school graduates and non-traditional students.

The BETA Scholarship Fund, managed by the Brown County Community Foundation, provides financial support to residents of Brown County, Indiana, under the age of 25. This scholarship is designed for individuals pursuing education or certification at vocational, trade, or skills schools. Since its inception, the Foundation has focused on enhancing educational opportunities for local youth, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their academic aspirations.

The FY 2027 State and Regional Primary Care Association (PCA) Cooperative Agreements aim to enhance the technical assistance provided to Health Center Program award recipients and look-alikes. This initiative focuses on improving access to preventive and primary health care, managing chronic diseases, and ensuring a capable health center workforce. By implementing value-based care strategies and leveraging data for operational improvements, the program seeks to support the health of vulnerable communities effectively.