Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California

Middlesex County Medical Society Foundation

The Middlesex County Medical Society Foundation, founded in 1964 and was initially funded by contributions from the first mass polio vaccination in our county.

MCMS Foundation Scholarship Fund

Middlesex County Medical Society Foundation is an independent nonprofit organization that awards scholarships to deserving students from Middlesex County, New Jersey for the study of medicine. Scholarships are awarded to deserving students who are enrolled in an accredited medical school.

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) is set to release a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) aimed at advancing the discovery of in vivo chemical probes for brain targets. Collaborating institutes include the National Eye Institute (NEI), National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), and National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). The initiative seeks to foster research into small molecules and novel biological targets related to brain diseases, encouraging innovative projects and collaborations.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

John & Jackie Watkins Scholarship

This scholarship recognizes the long history of Marion County as an agricultural area and the importance of farming in our community. John and Jackie Watkins both grew up in Delaware County and attended Radnor schools. They knew the value of education and its lifelong benefits.

Following Jackie’s passing in 1998, the family established the John & Jackie Watkins Scholarship Fund in her memory to assist the youth of Marion County to attend college—specifically to study agriculture. The Watkins Fund makes awards to graduating seniors from any high school in Marion County who are pursuing an education in agriculture, with special consideration given to those who have participated in FFA.

The NLN Steve Cerame Nurse Educator Scholarship Award supports aspiring nurse educators by providing up to $8,000 annually for master's or doctoral students. This award honors the legacy of NLN's former CFO and aims to facilitate the education of future nursing faculty. Eligible candidates must be NLN members and have completed at least one year of their program. The scholarship focuses on enhancing the nursing workforce and advancing educational excellence in nursing.

The Jan Langston Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in public health, health education, nutrition, or related fields. It requires full-time enrollment and a minimum GPA of 3.5. Eligible candidates must be from specific high schools within the Elk Grove Unified School District. This scholarship is funded through community donations, showcasing local support for educational advancement.

The BMC Expedition Grant supports British climbers for international expeditions, prioritizing those who have been BMC members for at least two years. Grants are aimed at younger climbers and under-represented groups, promoting sustainable practices in expedition planning. Eligible teams must demonstrate a commitment to climbing and innovative objectives, while ineligible projects include commercial expeditions and those failing to adhere to grant conditions. This funding aims to foster significant personal development and environmentally conscious climbing.

The Home Field Advantage - Brian and Linda Myers Scholarship is offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation to support EGUSD seniors with at least a 3.0 GPA who are engaged in community service. This scholarship provides opportunities for students enrolling in community colleges, vocational schools, or four-year universities. Applicants are required to submit an essay detailing their community service experiences. Financial need is not a criterion for this scholarship.

The Hanford Sand & Gravel, Inc. Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students from the Elk Grove Unified School District pursuing higher education. This scholarship is specifically for those planning to establish female-owned businesses or work in construction. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and participate in community activities. The scholarship does not require financial need and is available for various post-secondary institutions.

The George & Virginia Signorotti, Pepsi-Cola Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students from the Elk Grove Unified School District. This scholarship is open to full-time students attending a 4-year university, community college, or vocational school, with no financial need requirement. Students are encouraged to participate in school and community activities and should include reflections on their community service in their personal statements.

The Future Teachers Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports aspiring educators from the Elk Grove Unified School District. This scholarship is available to full-time students attending a four-year university or community college, with no specific financial need required. Applicants must engage in community activities and submit an essay reflecting on their community service experiences. Eligible schools include Elk Grove High and several others, with a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0.

The ASTR Teacher-Researchers Grant supports faculty with heavy teaching loads and limited research resources in theatre studies. This grant fosters scholarly exchange by providing an honorarium of up to $1000, complimentary conference registration, and a one-year ASTR membership. Applications are evaluated based on project feasibility and significance, with additional consideration for those facing institutional research support challenges. This initiative aims to enhance diversity and facilitate meaningful contributions to the field.

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Allen “Bus” Augenstein Memorial Scholarship

Originally the Claridon Alumni Association Scholarship Fund, this endowment (created in 2021), was renamed in 2023 to honor the late Allen ‘Bus’ Augenstein. The scholarship supports seniors and graduates of River Valley High School, with special consideration for students who pursue an education in the fields of engineering, health care, or education (especially science education). Awards also favor students active in band, choir, FFA, or school sports, especially golf and cross country.

Allen lived in Marion for more than 90 years. His father, A.B. Augenstein, served as Superintendent of Claridon Schools and River Valley School District, 1960–1965, and is well remembered for, among other accomplishments, starting football (6 man) in the district. His mother, Hazel, taught mathematics at Claridon during World War II.

The Friends of the Foundation Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students from various high schools in the Elk Grove area who aim to further their education at a four-year university or community college. This scholarship does not require financial need and mandates full-time enrollment, participation in school, and community activities. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, ensuring that dedicated individuals receive the assistance they need to succeed.

Bill and Maria Hoekstra Dental Scholarship

Graduating senior, graduating early college student, or current college student who permanently resides and attended high school, including home school, within the Foundation’s greater service area, including Fennville, Hamilton, Hudsonville, Saugatuck, and CTC students from any district.

The USPOULTRY Research Grants program, sponsored by the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, aims to enhance the poultry industry through comprehensive research funding. Established in 1963, it supports diverse projects related to poultry and egg production. With over $30 million invested, the program emphasizes improving product quality and safety. Proposals are evaluated by a panel of experts, with a funding rate of 15-20%. Eligible projects typically have budgets under $80,000 and timelines of 1-2 years.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Gerald and Inez O’Brien Scholarship

Gerald and Inez O’Brien both grew up in Saginaw County and were married for over 30 years before Gerald passed away at an early age. 

Gerald and Inez both believed strongly in education and supporting family and friends. In addition, they each treasured their lifetime neighbors and knew the importance of building relationships with their community neighbors and enjoying life. 

This scholarship memorial fund was created by their daughter, Ann Pavlik, and son, Dr. Keith O’Brien. The fund will strive to recognize those giving back to the community and those facing challenges head on, even when life throws roadblocks along the way.  

We are about helping children, right here in Marietta!

Kiwanis Club of Marietta members participate in service projects, hold fundraisers, and change children’s lives in our community. In addition, club members contribute to Kiwanis International initiatives helping clubs around the world assist children with education, basic needs, and medical care.

The Kiwanis Club of Marietta was chartered March 3, 1930 - Marietta, GA.

The Kiwanis Club of Marietta has proudly established and contributed to several scholarship endowments over the years to support deserving college students in our community. These scholarships are made possible through our club's Flag Project, which places over 1,300 American flags in front of homes and businesses five times each year.

Forever Remember Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 2010 by the Marietta Kiwanis Foundation to recognize those who are left behind.

The applicant agrees that verification of dependency may occur during the selection process. Emphasis for this award will be placed on the essay, character, and academic achievement.

Awards

• $2500

We are about helping children, right here in Marietta!

Kiwanis Club of Marietta members participate in service projects, hold fundraisers, and change children’s lives in our community. In addition, club members contribute to Kiwanis International initiatives helping clubs around the world assist children with education, basic needs, and medical care.

The Kiwanis Club of Marietta was chartered March 3, 1930 - Marietta, GA.

The Kiwanis Club of Marietta has proudly established and contributed to several scholarship endowments over the years to support deserving college students in our community. These scholarships are made possible through our club's Flag Project, which places over 1,300 American flags in front of homes and businesses five times each year.

E.W. Chastain Scholarship

This is a scholarship established in 1997 by the Marietta Kiwanis Foundation. 

Selection emphasis will be placed on academic achievement and character. 

Awards

• $2500

The Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation Youth Grants empower young changemakers aged 5 to 25 to create impactful projects addressing childhood hunger. Grants of $500 are available to projects engaging at least 50 youth volunteers. Activities must occur during the Sodexo Servathon (April 1 – May 31, 2025) and should focus on sustainable solutions to combat hunger in local communities, encouraging participation from underserved youth.

Pacific Redwoods Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Crisis Action Fund

The Pacific Redwoods Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Crisis Action Fund supports work being done to address the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples crisis in Northern California. Specifically, by providing grants to Tribes and non-profit organizations, the grants will support strengthening organizing, advocacy, technical assistance and capacity building for programs working to advance efforts in California.

Average grant size:

• $5,000 -$7,000

Applications will be reviewed on a monthly basis.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Iles Family Conservation Scholarship

The Iles Family Conservation Scholarship was established by Doug and Sandy Iles in memory of Clarence “Buck” Iles. A lifelong passion for conservation balanced with practical application is what Buck Iles stood for. A very avid sportsman, he was actively involved with leadership in the Michigan United Conservation Club and Saginaw Field and Stream, among others.

For more than 20 years, Buck Iles helped establish and operate the Saginaw Field and Stream Club annual scholarship raffle which supported over 40 different scholarships. Buck passed away in 2005 and this scholarship was established to continue the great raffle tradition that now no longer exists.

Doug and Sandy established this scholarship fund in “Dad’s” memory. Recipients should be students with an active interest in environmental issues. Although not limited to, emphasis will be placed on awarding this scholarship to a resident of Saginaw County. A minimum 3.0 GPA and a student who has the need for educational financial support are key determinants.

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Aris Kasotis Memorial Scholarship

Aris Kasotis was a young man who liked to see people included. “He made friends easily,” said his mother, Joan Kasotis, Marion County Auditor, “and he liked to make sure that no one was overlooked.”

Aris’ enjoyment of life and his desire to share with others prompted his parents, Joan and long-time local restaurateur and caterer, George Kasotis, to establish a memorial scholarship in Aris’ name following his untimely death in an automobile accident. More than 100 memorial contributions from friends and family helped to establish this scholarship fund in 2007.

The Kasotis Fund provides an annual scholarship for a senior from Marion Harding High School who ranks in the upper 50 percent of his or her senior class, but not the top 10 percent. Special consideration is given to applicants who have participated in Harding Singers, interscholastic wrestling, and/or interscholastic football—school activities that Aris enjoyed.

The Earle Smith Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, provides $1,000 to support students with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Financial need is a consideration, and applicants must demonstrate community involvement and leadership, particularly in youth-centered activities. This scholarship encourages students to engage in mentoring and community enrichment, promoting a strong commitment to local development and the well-being of others in the Elk Grove Unified School District.

The Dr. George Kibby Memorial Scholarship provides $3,500 to students in the Elk Grove Unified School District pursuing post-secondary education. Open to full-time students, there are no financial need requirements. Applicants must participate in community activities and submit a short essay reflecting on their community service experiences. This scholarship supports students from various high schools in the area, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and academic achievement.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

James P. Konieczka Memorial Scholarship

The James P. Konieczka Memorial Scholarship was established by his three children, Bryan, Amy, and Katie, to honor their father’s wishes after his passing in 2016 following a courageous year-long battle with cancer.

Jim believed in the value of a college education, but he also understood that not everyone wants to pursue this post-secondary education path. It was his wish that this scholarship be made available to someone seeking Career and Techincal Education (CTE) training or to someone seeking a traditional college degree.

The Peter N. Whitcher Scholarship Fund provides financial assistance to eligible children of current or deceased members of the Iron Workers District Council of Western New York. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing high school graduation, higher education, or professional development, thus enhancing their educational opportunities and fostering equity in the community. Established by a key figure in the American labor movement, it reflects a commitment to uplift future generations through accessible education.

The EGUSD 50th Anniversary Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, provides $1,250 to eligible students from various high schools in the Elk Grove area. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and participate in community activities, submitting an essay on their community service experiences. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing their post-secondary education at universities, community colleges, or vocational schools.