Best Grants for International Development in California

The Iber Health Education Scholarship, a program of the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, supports graduate students pursuing health-related studies. With scholarships ranging from $500 to $40,000, the foundation aids students in enhancing their educational opportunities. Applicants must be Portage County residents, demonstrating academic excellence, financial need, and community involvement. Special consideration is given to those likely to return to the area post-graduation. This initiative aims to foster future leaders in healthcare.

Mobile Beacon's Connect for Success program addresses the digital divide by providing schools with essential technology resources. This initiative offers up to 25 laptops and 4G devices with 12 months of complimentary high-speed internet service. By targeting students and communities facing digital inequities, the program ensures that all students can complete homework and access educational content from home. With ongoing support options available post-grant, Mobile Beacon is committed to fostering equitable learning environments and empowering educators to enhance digital inclusion.

The State-Local Partner Mentorship (SLP-M) program aims to establish local arts agencies in Glenn, Kings, and San Joaquin counties, where none currently exist. This initiative supports existing State-Local Partners in fostering new agencies that will enhance arts and cultural activities across these communities. Eligible applicants must have a history of arts programming, nonprofit status, and be current grantees in the CAC State-Local Partners Program, ensuring strong support for local artists and organizations.

The AHRQ Health Services Research Dissertation Program (R36) provides crucial funding for doctoral candidates engaged in health services research. This program aims to support individuals in their academic pursuits, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the field of healthcare. By fostering innovative research, AHRQ enhances the quality of health services and promotes evidence-based practices. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time, ensuring timely submissions for those seeking to advance their academic careers.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

Leo P. Kadanoff Prize

This prize recognizes scientists whose theoretical, experimental, or computational achievements have opened new vistas for statistical and or nonlinear physics. The annual prize consists of $10,000, a medal, certificate, travel reimbursement up to $500 for recipients traveling within North America, up to $1,000 from overseas, and a registration waiver to attend the APS March Meeting to give an invited talk and accept the award.

Nominations will be considered for three review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.

The PLTW Computer Science Program Expansion grant, funded by Pentair, aims to support schools in enhancing their existing PLTW Computer Science courses for the 2026-2027 school year. Grantees can utilize the $10,000 funding for activities such as adding new courses, increasing class periods, or training additional educators. Eligible schools are primarily public and charter institutions located in specific cities, while certain expenses like salaries and infrastructure improvements are ineligible for funding.

The PLTW Computer Science program, funded by Phillips 66, aims to enhance STEM education in middle and high schools. By offering a minimum of two PLTW Computer Science courses over two years, the initiative seeks to empower students with vital skills for future careers. With a total grant of $20,000, the program focuses on schools in various states, prioritizing those serving economically disadvantaged students to foster diversity and inclusion in the tech field.

The Lasker Clinical Research Scholars Program supports early-career clinical researchers aiming to enhance human health. It provides a unique opportunity to bridge NIH's intramural and extramural research environments over two phases: an initial 5-7 year tenure-track position at NIH followed by up to 3 years of extramural support. This program is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders in clinical research and foster innovative health solutions.

The PLTW Computer Science grant, in partnership with Pentair, supports schools in implementing the PLTW Computer Science program for the 2026-2027 academic year. Schools must offer at least one PLTW Computer Science course and report on their progress for one year. The total award amount is $20,000, aimed at covering fees for participation, training, and necessary equipment, ensuring that students gain essential skills in the field of computer science.

The Toor Scholarship for Strong Public-School Libraries, established by the Toor Family, honors the legacy of Jay and Ruth Toor, who advocated for state-certified librarians in every school. This scholarship supports U.S. public school librarians who create local marketing campaigns to promote their libraries as vital community resources. Each recipient receives a $1,000 stipend to attend the AASL National Conference and must present their project, contributing to the advancement of school librarianship.

The ABC-CLIO Leadership Grant supports AASL Chapters in developing leadership programs for school library associations at various levels. This grant encourages initiatives that engage new members, train current leaders, and foster collaboration among organizations. Successful applications clearly define program objectives, participant groups, and include well-structured budgets and evaluation plans. The grant aims to promote innovative leadership approaches that can be replicated by other chapters, enhancing the overall effectiveness of school libraries.

The Early Career Postdoctoral-Faculty Bridge Grant, offered by the American Chemical Society, supports postdoctoral fellows or new faculty members in their first 9 months as they establish independent research careers in green and sustainable chemistry. This grant provides funding for up to two years, covering salary, benefits, and travel expenses for a postdoctoral associate. The program aims to foster mentorship and training, ensuring a strong foundation for future academic success.

The Senior Chemists Mini Grant for Local Sections, offered by the American Chemical Society, is designed to support local events that engage senior members in innovative activities. Grants are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and funding can be used for various events including recognition luncheons, mentoring for undergraduates, collaborative activities with younger chemists, and community support events such as science fairs.

The McCune Foundation provides funding to grassroots organizations in Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties that empower economically and politically marginalized groups. Their grants support community-led initiatives focused on creating systemic change and enhancing social capital. Eligible applicants must demonstrate inclusive leadership and engage affected populations in project planning. The Foundation prioritizes projects that mobilize communities to address root causes of social issues, fostering collaboration and action for social justice.

The Green Chemistry Student Chapter Award recognizes ACS student chapters for their commitment to green chemistry initiatives. This award highlights the importance of green chemistry in education, encouraging students to engage in activities that promote sustainability. Eligible chapters must submit detailed summaries of at least three green chemistry projects, demonstrating their understanding of the principles and practices that contribute to a more sustainable future.

The Limited Competition: Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) Institutional Research Training Grant aims to enhance clinical and translational science training by supporting programs that prepare predoctoral and postdoctoral researchers. This initiative, funded by the NIH, focuses on translating scientific discoveries into effective health interventions. Eligible institutions will be invited to apply, and only high-quality applications will be considered for funding, ensuring a robust peer-review process.

The Local Section Member Engagement (LS-MEET) Grant Program, provided by the American Chemical Society, aims to enhance community engagement within local sections. With a funding cap of $2,000, this program supports initiatives that attract new members and strengthen existing communities. Eligible projects may include innovative technology use, targeted events for underrepresented local chemist groups, and activities that promote interaction among members. Applications should align with local section goals and detail specific budgetary needs.

The Corporation Associates Seed Grant, offered by the American Chemical Society, provides up to $5,000 per year for innovative projects in chemical sciences education, public engagement in the chemical industry, and safety enhancements in chemistry. This grant supports one-time initiatives that align with the goals of the ACS Committee on Corporation Associates. Note that funding excludes research, equipment purchases, travel, and illegal activities, ensuring resources are allocated to impactful educational endeavors.

The Corporation Associates Local Section & International Chapter Grant, offered by the American Chemical Society (ACS), provides funding up to $1,000 for ACS local sections and international chapters. This grant supports industry-focused events like job fairs, résumé workshops, and networking receptions, aimed at enhancing the professional development of members employed in the chemical industry. By fostering community engagement, ACS helps empower local chapters to champion scientific integrity and advance knowledge.

The Rise for Education Grant Program offers funding for hydroponic classroom gardens that enhance STEM education and nutrition. This initiative encourages hands-on learning, integrating STEM and arts through practical gardening projects. Eligible applicants include schools, homeschooling families, and educational organizations. The program fosters community building and entrepreneurship via activities like Farmer's Markets, while boosting student engagement and developing essential skills. By implementing this program, educators can create an engaging and interactive learning environment year-round.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

Julius Edgar Lilienfeld Prize

The Julius Edgar Lilienfeld Prize recognizes outstanding contributions to physics and exceptional skills in lecturing to diverse audiences. The prize consists of $20,000, a certificate citing the contributions made by the recipient, an allowance for travel to the APS Medal and Prize Ceremony and Reception in Washington, DC, and an invited talk at an APS March or April Meeting, plus expenses for the three lectures by the recipient given at an APS meeting, a research university, and a predominantly undergraduate institution. The prize will be presented annually.

Nominations will be considered for three review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.

The Rapoport Doctoral Dissertation Grants support PhD students conducting innovative research in American political behavior. Funded by the Rapoport Family Foundation, the grants offer up to $15,000 for survey research. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a doctoral program at an accredited U.S. university and have completed all preliminary requirements. The foundation emphasizes originality and transformative potential in research proposals, aiming to foster diverse approaches to understanding political behavior.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

John Wheatley Award

To recognize the dedication of physicists who have made contributions to the development of physics across the globe. The award will consist of a stipend of $5,000 and a certificate citing the contributions made by the recipient. The award will be presented biennially, every odd-numbered year, at the general meeting of the American Physical Society.

Nominations will be considered for two review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

John Dawson Award for Excellence in Plasma Physics Research

Recognizes a particular recent outstanding achievement in plasma physics research.

The award consists of $5,000, a certificate citing the contributions made by the recipient, and a travel reimbursement of up to $2,000 to attend the APS Division of Plasma Physics (DPP) meeting. Information on allowable travel expenses appears here.

In the case of multiple recipients, the stipend and travel reimbursement will be divided equally.

The recipient will receive a DPP meeting registration waiver. In the event of a team larger than five (5), DPP may cap the number of registration waivers.

It will be awarded annually.

Nominations will be considered for three review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.

Prior to 2007, this award was originally named the Award for Excellence in Plasma Physics.

The Cultural Affairs Operating Grants offered by the City of San José support professionally-managed arts organizations with year-round programs. Eligible applicants must have annual operating expenditures below $750,000 and a history of receiving grants. The two-year application covers FY 2026-2027 and FY 2027-2028. Organizations must demonstrate financial stability by avoiding significant deficits. This initiative aims to enrich cultural opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

The Take Part Grants, offered by the City of San José Office of Cultural Affairs, support community-based arts projects that engage residents in cultural activities. Aimed at non-professional and small professional organizations, these grants foster creativity, cultural participation, and public value in the arts. Eligible projects should enhance community engagement and reflect the diverse cultural heritage of San José. Funding ranges from $2,500 to $25,000, promoting accessible arts experiences for all.

The Michael Foundation Grant supports Waldorf Education in North America, focusing on training centers and individuals. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $6,000, with occasional larger amounts. Eligibility includes AWSNA/WECAN membership and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion practices. The foundation prioritizes teacher training programs and requests from individuals who have completed their initial training year, aiming to assist those most in need.