Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California

Scholarships

Grand Haven Area Community Foundation scholarships are awarded competitively based on criteria set by donors. These criteria could include financial need, the school the applicant is attending, academic achievement, as well as personal or career goals. The Community Foundation has a rigorous internal selection process for each scholarship decision, and each applicant is reviewed in depth, and considered thoroughly.

Our scholarship program is simple. You are able to apply once for all foundation scholarships you may be eligible for. Once your application is submitted, you will be eligible for all those for which you meet the requirement.

Zenko Family Fund 

This fund was established in 1990 by Margaret L. Zenko as a means to assist individuals to help themselves become productive members of our community. Her husband, Edward, was a graduate of Pigeon Creek School and a self-educated engineer who started Progressive Engineering, which made parts for airplanes during World War II. They both had a keen interest in the Grand Haven Lighthouse and Pier and in retirement, Edward's energy was funneled into getting the lights installed on the catwalk. The Zenko Family Fund continues to give scholarships to deserving local students who show through their work ethic that education is important.

The Marin Retirement Communities Scholarship Fund, managed by the Marin Community Foundation, provides scholarship opportunities for employees and their families at five Marin County retirement facilities. This initiative aims to support post-secondary educational goals, fostering equity and community engagement. Contributions to this fund are tax-deductible, reinforcing the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational access and equity for all individuals, regardless of their background.

Agnes Zuverink-Norman Nursing Scholarship

Graduating senior or graduating early college student from one of the following high schools: Black River, Holland Christian, Holland High School, West Ottawa, Zeeland East, or Zeeland West.

The Linda R. Benavides Memorial Scholarship-Community Fellowship Award, managed by the Coastal Bend Community Foundation, offers financial support to graduating high school seniors and GED recipients in the Coastal Bend area. Awards range from $100 to $16,000, with an average of $1,000. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and a commitment to community service, reflecting Linda Benavides' legacy of advocacy and leadership. This scholarship aims to uplift local students and foster educational opportunities.

The Coastal Bend Community Foundation Scholarship supports high school seniors from a seven-county area in Texas, providing grants ranging from $100 to $16,000, with an average award of $1,000. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities for local students attending accredited colleges or universities across the United States. The foundation, known for its integrity and community stewardship, has a longstanding commitment to philanthropy in the Coastal Bend region.

The Joann and C.W. Carpenter Endowed Scholarship, established in 2016 by C.W. Carpenter in memory of his wife JoAnn, supports high school seniors from CCISD. With awards ranging from $100 to $16,000, this scholarship aims to assist those in financial need pursuing higher education, including vocational schools. This initiative reflects the Carpenter's commitment to community service and educational support, ensuring that deserving students receive the help they need to succeed.

The Beatrice Educational Foundation Scholarship supports Beatrice High School seniors with financial aid for higher education. Established in 1987, the Foundation manages a $3.8 million Endowment Fund, providing over $55,000 in scholarships annually. Scholarships are awarded based on criteria set by the donor, focusing on academic merit and need. The Foundation aims to assist deserving students in pursuing undergraduate studies, ensuring funds are available when needed.

The RISE Women of Elk Grove Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, aims to support female students pursuing higher education. This scholarship is available to students in the Elk Grove Unified School District, with no specified financial need. Eligible candidates can attend a four-year university, community college, vocational school, or job training program, and must have a minimum GPA of 3.0. Participation in community activities is required.

The PLTW Engineering - New Program, supported by Burns & McDonnell, aims to empower U.S. students through STEM education. By offering at least one PLTW Engineering course in the 2026-2027 academic year, schools can enhance their curriculum and foster critical skills. This initiative not only increases access to valuable programs but also prepares students for future challenges in college and careers, ensuring they thrive in an evolving world.

The Battaglia Family Endowed Scholarship, established by the Battaglia family, supports students in the Coastal Bend who require financial assistance to pursue higher education. Candidates can seek two-year or four-year degrees, vocational training, or certifications. Scholarships range from $100 to $16,000, averaging $1,000, with amounts influenced by fund growth. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, and reside in the designated counties.

The Acock – Beverly Acock Memorial Scholarship honors Beverly Acock's legacy by supporting students who excel in artistic pursuits and engage in community service. This scholarship ranges from $100 to $16,000, with an average award of $1,000. Eligible candidates must graduate in the top 25% of their class, reside in Nueces County, and plan to enroll full-time at an accredited college or university following high school graduation.

The PLTW Engineering - Program Expansion initiative aims to enhance STEM education by increasing access to Project Lead The Way (PLTW) programs in communities served by Burns & McDonnell. This partnership focuses on empowering students through real-world learning experiences, helping them develop essential skills for future careers. Starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, grants will support schools in expanding their existing PLTW Engineering programs to foster greater participation and engagement in STEM fields.

The OVC FY 2026 Services for Victims of Human Trafficking aims to enhance victim service programs across the United States. This initiative supports victims by providing critical services to address their diverse needs, including mental health support and assistance with legal challenges. By funding comprehensive programs, the Office for Victims of Crime seeks to combat human trafficking effectively and promote recovery for affected individuals, ensuring their rights and well-being are prioritized.

The Portuguese Fraternity Society of America CO-119 (PFSA CO) Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students in the Elk Grove Unified School District pursuing higher education. Open to full-time and part-time students at universities, community colleges, or vocational schools, eligibility includes membership or familial ties to SES of Elk Grove. This scholarship aims to foster educational opportunities and community involvement among local students, promoting various career paths.

The Pride of Laguna Creek Lions in Memory of Ron Oneto Scholarship, administered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports graduating seniors within the EGUSD boundaries, including those from private and home schools. Eligible students must be full-time and have completed at least 300 hours of community service. Preference is given to those who have volunteered with a Lion’s Club. This scholarship promotes educational opportunities for various career paths, including vocational training.

The National Pride Grant for LGBTQIA+ Small Businesses, opening for applications on April 22, 2025, offers $25,000 in funding distributed as $1,000 micro grants to 25 eligible LGBTQIA+ business owners. Designed to support diverse founder-led enterprises, this initiative encourages professional development and aids in achieving over $1 million in revenue. Eligible participants must have a U.S.-based business and meet specific criteria regarding ownership, revenue, and employee count.

The Raymond Case Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students from the Elk Grove Unified School District planning to attend Cosumnes River College. Eligibility includes being a community college student enrolled in 12 units or more, demonstrating financial need, and planning to attend the college next year. This scholarship aims to assist students in various fields such as agriculture, nursing, education, and the arts, ensuring access to higher education opportunities.

The R & C Davis Trust Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students from the Elk Grove Unified School District pursuing higher education. Emphasizing community involvement, this scholarship aids students attending four-year colleges or vocational schools. Preference is given to those demonstrating financial need and aiming to be the first in their family to attend college. This initiative reflects the legacy of community-oriented individuals, Rebecca Davis and Charles Davis, fostering educational opportunities.

The Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation offers need-based scholarships to empower members in achieving their educational goals. These scholarships provide financial support of up to $5,000 per year or $2,500 per term for undergraduate students. Applicants may apply for either a merit-based or need-based scholarship, ensuring access to education for all. The foundation aims to create opportunities and promote academic success among its members.

The AI for Economic Opportunity Fund, established by the GitLab Foundation, aims to catalyze transformative economic opportunities using advanced AI technologies. This funding round invites bold proposals that leverage AI to enhance economic mobility, improve service delivery, and create new educational pathways. Grantees will receive $250,000 in funding, technical support, and access to a network of practitioners. The fund seeks projects that demonstrate ethical awareness and promote fairness in AI deployment.

The Lynne Sherwood Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, aims to support local youth in achieving their educational aspirations. This competitive scholarship considers various factors including financial need and academic achievement. Applicants must reside in West Michigan and submit necessary documents such as transcripts and the Student Aid Report. Lynne Sherwood's legacy as a community leader and educator continues to inspire future generations through this scholarship opportunity.

The CA$H Theatre Grant, provided by Theatre Bay Area, supports individual artists and small theatre companies in the San Francisco Bay Area. This grant program fosters the development of artistic and capacity-building projects, focusing on those not tied to fully-produced performances. With an emphasis on equity and inclusion, it aids in script development, workshops, and organizational improvement, ensuring a vibrant arts community where diverse voices can thrive.

The Arts Leadership Residency, offered by Theatre Bay Area, provides a transformative opportunity for aspiring artistic and managing directors to gain hands-on experience in Bay Area theatres. Over a 12-16 week period, residents will work closely with established leaders, engage in significant projects, and enhance their skills in a supportive environment. This initiative emphasizes mentorship, professional growth, and fostering diversity within the arts community, ensuring that underrepresented voices have access to vital resources and opportunities.

Impact Diablo Valley aims to empower local families by providing grants to nonprofits addressing vital community needs. With a focus on arts, education, environment, human services, and health, the funder supports initiatives that demonstrate sustainability beyond the grant cycle. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) entities, operational for at least three years, and focused on Contra Costa County. A Zoom meeting on May 29th will offer insights into the 2025 grant application process.

The All Kids Play: Youth Sports Grant aims to support families and community-based organizations in low-income areas, ensuring access to recreational sports for children in grades K-12. This grant assists those who struggle to afford youth sports, providing essential funding on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligible organizations must demonstrate budget constraints and operate in areas with high low-income student percentages, promoting inclusivity in youth sports participation.

RedRover Relief Safe Housing Grants provide vital support for domestic violence survivors by enabling them to keep their pets safe during challenging times. With grants up to $60,000, nonprofit organizations can create or enhance programs that offer shelter for pets, foster care, and veterinary services. This initiative fosters collaboration between domestic violence and animal organizations, ensuring comprehensive community support. By addressing the unique needs of families, these grants promote safety and well-being for both humans and their beloved pets.

The Elk Grove Community Scholarship, provided by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students in the Elk Grove Unified School District. It aims to enhance educational opportunities through financial assistance for those attending four-year universities, community colleges, or vocational schools. The scholarship prioritizes students demonstrating financial need and requires a short essay outlining their goals and the impact of the CTE Program on their education. This initiative encourages community involvement and diverse career paths.