Best Grants for Preschools in California

The SHAPE America: Joy of Effort Award recognizes dedicated individuals who exemplify the spirit of commitment and passion in health and physical education. Awardees are current SHAPE America members with at least three years of membership, demonstrating excellence in teaching, coaching, or leadership. This prestigious award celebrates those who have made significant contributions to the field, inspiring others to lead healthy, active lives through their efforts in education and advocacy.

The Sherry Wagner-Henry Board Fellowship, initiated by the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT), offers a unique opportunity for emerging leaders in the theatre and entertainment industry. This 12-18 month program connects Fellows with experienced board members to enhance their professional skills. Participants gain access to board resources, attend meetings, and receive support for conferences, all valued at approximately $3,000 to $3,500. Ideal for individuals with 2-5 years of experience, this Fellowship fosters growth and leadership in nonprofit governance.

The BACKstage Grant Fall 2025, offered by the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT), provides funding for secondary education theatre teachers to enhance their professional development. Grants support various expenses, including workshop registrations, travel, and educational supplies. Eligible applicants must be secondary school educators teaching theatre-related subjects, and all funded activities must be completed within a year. This initiative fosters growth and innovation in the performing arts community.

The David A. Evans Award for the Advancement and Education of Organic Synthesis, presented by the American Chemical Society, recognizes exceptional achievements in organic synthesis research and education. Established in 2023, this award includes a $5,000 prize and reimbursement for travel expenses up to $2,500 for the award ceremony. It promotes inclusivity, granting opportunities irrespective of race, gender, or background, fostering a diverse scientific community committed to advancing chemistry.

The CPIC Scholars Program, part of the Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network (RDCRN), offers education and career development opportunities for early-stage faculty and fellows. This initiative aims to foster the research careers of the next generation, focusing on congenital cytomegalovirus, neonatal herpes simplex virus, and enterovirus sepsis. Scholars engage in research projects and participate in CPIC Scholar Circles, enhancing their professional skills and knowledge in rare disease research.

The Community Foundation of San Carlos, established in 2019, aims to enhance the quality of life in San Carlos through community-driven initiatives. With a $2M endowment, it supports nonprofits focused on sustainable solutions for local needs. The 2025 Grant Round prioritizes organizations that directly improve community well-being. Eligible applicants should have operating budgets under $1.5 million and demonstrate their impact. The foundation emphasizes general operating support to empower nonprofits in fulfilling their missions.

The PIDS Summer Research Scholars Award, established by the PIDS Foundation, supports students in pediatric infectious disease research. Open to undergraduate and graduate students, this award promotes impactful summer research projects across various disciplines, including basic science and clinical studies. Funded partially by Sanofi, it encourages mentorship by PIDS members, aiming to enhance scholarship and practical contributions to the field of pediatric infectious diseases.

The PIDS Foundation's Apprenticeship Program fosters early-career pediatric infectious diseases physicians, enhancing their skills in academic publishing. Named in honor of Ralph D. Feigin, the program offers junior faculty members the opportunity to engage with the editorial process of the Journal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society. Recipients will contribute to manuscript discussions and special projects, committing approximately four hours weekly. The award will be presented during the PIDS Annual Membership Meeting at IDWeek 2025, with the term spanning October 2025 to October 2026.

The Adapted PE/Activity Graduate Student of the Year Award recognizes outstanding graduate students in adapted physical education and physical activity who have made significant contributions to the lives of individuals with disabilities. Sponsored by the Society of Health and Physical Educators, this award emphasizes leadership, dedication, and commitment to inclusive practices in physical education. It aims to inspire future professionals in the field while promoting excellence in adapted physical activity and disability sport.

The Adapted PE/Activity Program of the Year Award recognizes outstanding community-based initiatives aimed at enhancing the physical capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Organized by SHAPE America, this award highlights programs that provide inclusive physical education and recreational opportunities, ensuring that all participants can engage in healthy, active lifestyles. By showcasing best practices, the award promotes innovation and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, fostering an environment of inclusion and support in physical activity.

The Julia L. Atz Scholarship Fund, established by the Noble County Community Foundation, offers $2,500 to college seniors or post-graduate students pursuing careers in classical music performance or conducting. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.00 or above and may reapply for funding in subsequent years. Preference is given to Indiana residents, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to supporting local talent and enhancing the cultural landscape of the community.

The Victoria E. & Randal D. Miller Scholarship is a need-based scholarship awarded every four years, with the next award scheduled for 2026. It offers up to $1,000 annually and is renewable for up to four years contingent on maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and preference is given to students affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

The RWA Perseverance Fund, administered by the Romance Writers of America (RWA), supports members in financial need for their annual national dues. RWA, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to advancing the interests of romance writers through advocacy and networking. The fund is available to applicants who can demonstrate financial need and commitment to a career in romance writing. Eligibility includes submitting proof of work, while ensuring a respectful and inclusive environment for all members.

The Creative Native Call for Art invites Indigenous artists aged 5 to 24 to showcase their talents through diverse artistic expressions. Participants can submit works inspired by the theme of what is sacred to them and their community, with opportunities for national recognition and awards, including a grand prize of $1,000. This initiative aims to celebrate and support young artists in their creative journeys while honoring cultural significance and community values.

The Founders Concept Development Grants, offered by the Children's Theatre Foundation of America (CTFA), support US non-profit theatres in developing innovative concepts and strategies for engaging young audiences. This initiative emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to enhance the quality of theatre for youth. CTFA encourages artists to explore new ideas while ensuring that all children have access to impactful theatrical experiences. This grant embodies a commitment to fostering creativity and excellence in youth theatre.

The Marie A Calderilla Scholarship, established in 2007, empowers women to pursue higher education despite financial constraints. Funded by a generous gift, it offers support for academic promise and commitment to educational goals. Eligible candidates include female students in the San Mateo County Community College District, aiming for their first degree or certificate. This scholarship promotes educational advancement for women who demonstrate perseverance and a strong desire to improve their lives through learning.

The Harold Johnson Law Enforcement Scholarship honors the legacy of Police Chief Harold "Hal" Johnson by providing financial support to aspiring law enforcement professionals. Established for students in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, it encourages those with a passion for public service and a commitment to criminal justice. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and college students with a minimum GPA of 2.5, showcasing leadership qualities and financial need, ensuring a new generation of dedicated law enforcement personnel.

The Abby Sobrato Scholarship, established in memory of John Matthew Sobrato's mother, aims to provide significant financial support to students from Latino College Prep Academy, Luis Valdez Leadership Academy, and B. Roberto Cruz Leadership Academy in San José, California. This scholarship honors the values of equal opportunity and academic potential, encouraging students who are planning to enroll in college or vocational school and have demonstrated meaningful contributions to their communities.

The Abby Sobrato LCPA Alumni Scholarship, established in memory of John Matthew Sobrato's mother, aims to honor her dedication to education and equal opportunity. It offers significant financial support to graduates of the Latino College Prep Academy in San José, California, facilitating their college access and success. The selection committee prioritizes students demonstrating academic potential and meaningful contributions to their communities and schools, ensuring the scholarship aligns with its mission to empower future leaders.

The Samsung Semiconductor Scholarship is dedicated to supporting future innovators in STEM fields. This program targets exceptional undergraduate and master's students who are committed to full-time education at California public universities, with a preference for those in the greater Bay Area. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and have declared a major in a STEM-related discipline. This initiative emphasizes collaboration and innovation, ensuring diverse voices contribute to the future of technology.

The Ralph Hale and Martha L. Ruppert Educational Scholarship supports 'late bloomers'—students who show academic improvement but may have low GPAs. Established by Ralph Hale and Lenore Martha Ruppert, it aims to assist those facing financial hardships while demonstrating community involvement. Eligible candidates must be high school graduates from specific counties in California and plan to enroll in college or vocational school. This scholarship empowers deserving youth to pursue their academic goals.

The Latinos in Technology Scholarship, funded by the Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley, aims to empower Latino students pursuing STEM careers. Awardees receive up to $6,000 annually for their undergraduate education, with professional development opportunities, mentorship, and internship access. This initiative not only addresses the underrepresentation of Latinos in STEM but also fosters a supportive community to help students transition successfully into the workforce.

The Kuo Family Scholarship, established by the Kuo Family Fund, honors their legacy and supports community impact through grants. It is open to high school seniors and college students in the Bay Area with a GPA of 3.25 or higher and financial need, as determined by FAFSA. This scholarship aims to assist students pursuing full-time education at accredited four-year institutions, fostering educational and cultural growth within the community.

The Krishnan-Shah Family Scholarship, established by Ajay Shah and Lata Krishnan, aims to support financially needy students with strong academic potential and community involvement. This scholarship is open to graduating high school seniors and current community college students from the Silicon Valley region, particularly first-generation college students. It provides essential financial aid to help students successfully complete their undergraduate degrees, fostering educational opportunities and community growth.

The K.C. Kinch Scholarship, established in 2017 in memory of Kathleen Carol Kinch, provides financial assistance to students from East Palo Alto, CA. This scholarship supports high school seniors and graduates with a GPA of 3.0 to 3.75 who demonstrate financial need and community involvement. The selection committee values academic promise and aims to empower local students to pursue higher education at colleges, universities, or technical schools.

The Julie Gerhardt-Mannina Scholarship, established in 2020, aims to support the education of underserved and underrepresented Latinx students in San José. It targets graduating high school seniors from specific East Side Union High School District schools who demonstrate academic promise and have a minimum GPA of 2.5. The scholarship encourages students of color and immigrants to pursue their education at San José State University, promoting community upliftment and individual achievement.

The Immigrant Justice Scholarship, established by a dedicated Menlo Atherton graduate, supports students passionate about social justice, particularly for immigrants. Open to high school seniors and enrolled college students from specific local high schools, it encourages those demonstrating involvement in social justice activities. Eligible applicants include immigrants and first-generation individuals facing financial hardship, with a minimum GPA of 2.5. This initiative reflects a commitment to uplifting immigrant voices and fostering community engagement.