Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California

The Teiger Foundation Programming Grant supports innovative visual arts projects led by curators at smaller non-profit organizations with budgets under $3.5 million. Grants of up to $150,000 are available for three years, funding development, realization, and documentation of exhibitions and related programs. The foundation emphasizes community engagement, racial justice, and artistic experimentation while encouraging collaboration with other cultural institutions. Note: The next Call for Proposals opens in Fall 2026.

The Teiger Foundation Single Project Grant supports innovative visual arts projects at non-profit exhibition spaces with annual budgets exceeding $3 million. Focused on curatorial practices, the grant encourages experimentation and creativity, aiming to drive positive structural change in contemporary art. Eligible expenses include artist fees, publication costs, and coalition-building efforts. The next Call for Proposals opens in Fall 2026, with funding of up to $150,000 available for selected projects.

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds. 

Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible

Kenneth B. and Adeline J. Graves Scholarship Fund

Supporting residents of Granby, MA.

Additional Guidelines

• Students can receive up to $3,000 in scholarships from the Community Foundation.
• Scholarship awards could impact the financial aid offered by a college, and students are advised to check with their college financial aid offices about this.
• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. Some part and/or all the award could be considered taxable income. It is advisable students check with the college or tax accountant regarding this matter.

The Pittsburgh Conference Memorial National College Grant (PCMNCG) supports small college science departments by providing grants for scientific equipment, teaching aids, and library materials. With a maximum funding of $10,000, this initiative promotes excellence in science education and encourages proposals that demonstrate effective integration of requested resources into curricula. Eligible institutions must have fewer than 5,000 students, ensuring that funds significantly impact undergraduate science education across diverse fields.

The Polaris Trails Grants Program, launched in January 2006, supports off-road and snow clubs across the U.S. and Canada. This pioneering initiative funds projects that promote safe riding, trail preservation, and environmental protection. Organizations can receive up to $10,000 for trail development, safety initiatives, and maintaining land access. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(7) organizations, while funds are not available for politically or religiously affiliated programs.

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

Olivia Scott Scholarship Fund

For current year graduating seniors of any Washington County high school, who demonstrate academic excellence, sportsmanship, and/or the ability to work with others towards a common goal.

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

McDonald Family Cookie Jar Scholarship Fund

For a current year graduating senior who resides within the boundaries of any Washington County school district, who plans to enroll in a certificate, associate, or bachelor's degree program, and who demonstrates financial need. In the selection process, preference shall be given to students from under-represented, disadvantaged and/or diverse populations.

The New Foundation for Art History (NFAH) offers innovative non-residential fellowships for mid-career scholars, emphasizing excellence in research across various art eras and cultures. Established in 2019, NFAH aims to support scholars from U.S. institutions, particularly those at smaller schools, with grants up to $50,000 to aid in their research endeavors. The initiative promotes diversity and equity within the field, ensuring that scholars receive the resources they need to thrive.

The Jane C. Waldbaum Archaeological Field School Scholarship, established by the Archaeological Institute of America, supports students participating in archaeological fieldwork for the first time. With a funding amount of $1000, this scholarship is aimed at junior and senior undergraduates and first-year graduate students who are studying archaeology or related disciplines. Eligible applicants must be at least 18 years old and demonstrate academic achievement and financial need.

The New Foundation for Art History (NFAH) offers Fellowships for Contingent Faculty to address the growing reliance on contingent positions in art history. Launched in 2019, these fellowships provide $10,000 to $15,000 for each summer, up to $45,000 over three years. By accommodating the unique schedules of contingent faculty, NFAH aims to support research and publication efforts, facilitating career advancement and promoting equity within the discipline.

The New Foundation for Art History (NFAH), established in 2019, aims to innovate within the art history field by addressing gaps left by other institutions. Offering five publication subvention grants of $1,000 to $5,000, NFAH prioritizes applications from U.S. scholars, especially those in underrepresented areas. With a commitment to diversity and equity, NFAH adapts its initiatives based on community feedback, fostering excellence in research and publication.

The National Philanthropy Day Grant Program, managed by the Long Beach Community Foundation, aims to enhance community service through a one-day volunteer project. This initiative supports local nonprofits in beautifying their facilities, fostering collaboration among community partners, and promoting charitable giving. Eligible organizations must be 501(C)(3) nonprofits based in Long Beach, with projects that can be completed in one day, demonstrating significant impact and community involvement.

The Glenn W. Bailey STEM Scholars Grant supports colleges and universities in expanding STEM programs for post-secondary students. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with no set deadlines. Grants, capped at $25,000, aim to enhance educational experiences through various initiatives, including workshops, research funding, and student organizations. This program encourages innovative approaches to STEM education, making it accessible to a diverse range of students across the United States. For more details, visit the FAQs on the foundation's website.

The Glenn W. Bailey Foundation Teen Tech Competition offers grants to schools and organizations to promote creativity and problem-solving among teens. Participants can engage in various tech categories such as AI, robotics, and game development. The competition includes phases for ideation, development, and final presentations. With support from sponsors, prizes include tech gadgets and scholarships. This initiative aims to foster innovation and collaboration among youth in a structured and supportive environment.

The Michael Aurbach Fellowship for Excellence in Visual Art, awarded by the College Art Association, supports artist members with an MFA or equivalent who teach studio classes. This fellowship provides a $7,500 award and conference registration to a qualifying artist, focusing on their artistic work rather than a proposal. It aims to recognize and empower visual arts professionals in academia.

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Scholarship Program

The community foundation offers a wide variety of scholarships for students, provided by the generosity of local donors. Whether you are a high school senior, a current college student, or a non-traditional student we work with donors to help you take the next step in your education.

Frances E. Curtis NAACP Scholarship

For graduating high school seniors or a graduate from a high school located in Dickinson, Ottawa, or Saline Counties, with ties to NAACP-Salina

Background

The Frances E. Curtis NAACP Scholarship was established to assist students with ties to the NAACP-Salina.

Renewals

• This award is not renewable.

The Association of American Educators Foundation offers classroom grants of up to $500 for full-time educators to support various educational projects and materials. These funds can be used for items such as books, software, and art supplies. Grants must be utilized within one year of approval, and competition is strong due to high application volumes. Note that applicants from specific states will not be eligible for national funding.

The Association of American Educators Foundation offers the National Teacher Scholarship to promote professional excellence among educators. This scholarship provides funding for various professional development opportunities, including conferences and learning materials, with awards up to $500. Available to full-time educators who haven't received AAE funding in the last two years, the scholarship aims to enhance the quality of education across the nation while supporting educators' growth and collaboration.

The Senior Pet Adoption Assistance Grant, offered by the Petfinder Foundation, provides financial support to adopters of senior pets or bonded pairs. This initiative aims to encourage the adoption of older pets by covering costs such as adoption fees and post-adoption expenses, including veterinary care and supplies. Grants, up to $1,000, are awarded monthly until funds are depleted, ensuring that senior pets find loving homes while alleviating some financial burdens for their new families.

The AIAA Foundation Classroom Grant Program provides funding of up to $500 for K-12 teachers to enhance student learning in STEM subjects, particularly in Aerospace. The program encourages innovative projects that address unmet educational needs. Schools can apply for a maximum of two grants per year. Eligible projects include STEM demonstration kits and robotics supplies, while funding for items like audio-visual equipment and travel is not permitted.

The Vernier Science Education Inspiration Grants support innovative K-12 and college educators in the U.S. who creatively use Vernier technology to engage students in hands-on STEM education. Each grant includes $1,000 in Vernier technology, a one-year license for the Vernier Graphical Analysis™ Pro app, and three hours of virtual professional development. This initiative aims to inspire scientific curiosity and enhance STEM literacy among students.

The Diana Jo Dreyer Memorial Scholarship, established by INDATEL Services LLC and the family of Diana Jo Dreyer, supports female students pursuing a business degree. This scholarship honors Diana's impactful career in telecommunications and her dedication to empowering women in the industry. Applicants must be graduating high school seniors, U.S. citizens, sponsored by an NTCA member, and interested in returning to rural communities after graduation. This initiative enriches the lives of young women in rural America.

The Morgan Hill Community Foundation is providing grants to support local non-profit organizations and public schools within the Morgan Hill Unified School District. A total of $32,000 will be distributed for projects that enhance educational initiatives for students from K-12. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations or schools and focus on broad initiatives that promote lifelong learning and community engagement, avoiding funding for individual classes or basic operational costs.

ORS/OREF Distinguished Investigator Award

The ORS/OREF Distinguished Investigator Award honors an individual who has significantly contributed to the field of orthopaedic research and to the ORS and the OREF through their outstanding scientific achievements and their commitment of time and service.

A committee comprised of five individuals, including past ORS/OREF Distinguished Investigator Award honorees, established member representatives from the ORS and active OREF volunteers, will each submit a maximum of two nominees to be considered for this award.

The person nominating the ORS member for this award must include the following information about the nominee at the time of submission:

• NIH Biosketch
• Letter of recommendation
• Statement of service to ORS and OREF

Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are accepted from mid-November until mid-March. Scholarship award recipients will be announced at the high school awards ceremony. 

Meshoppen Creek Scholarship

Established by Reverend Paul Carlson and his wife Myrtle to provide assistance to a graduating high school Senior from Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania who exhibits exceptional promise for their future and who writes a winning essay about their greatest accomplishment in life so far.

The Council of Independent Colleges

Founded in 1956, the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) is an association of nonprofit independent colleges and universities, state-based councils, and higher education affiliates that works to support college and university leadership, advance institutional excellence, and enhance public understanding of independent higher education’s contributions to society.

CIC is the major national organization that focuses on providing services to leaders of independent colleges and universities and state-based councils. CIC offers conferences, seminars, publications, and other programs and services that help institutions improve educational quality, administrative and financial performance, student outcomes, and institutional visibility.

NetVUE Grant Programs

NetVUE offers a variety of grants to member institutions, supporting programming for students and professional development for faculty members and staff. Grants support projects ranging from one to four years in length. Grant programs are tailored to differing circumstances among member institutions, including their particular areas of interest, their bandwidth and capacity for administering projects, and the depth of their previous engagement with vocational exploration and discernment. NetVUE grants are administered by the Council of Independent Colleges, with generous support from Lilly Endowment Inc.

NetVUE Grants for Reframing the Institutional Saga

Many NetVUE member colleges and universities have strong historical ties to a specific religious tradition, a particular educational philosophy, or a pioneering educator. These elements of an institution’s heritage are important, but their significance may not always be clear in the midst of changes in the institution’s demographic profile, surrounding community, and founding organizations. These changes can influence student recruitment and retention, curriculum design, and the composition of faculty. The purpose of this grant program is to enable institutions to produce an updated account of their history and mission in light of their current context.

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Scholarship Program

The community foundation offers a wide variety of scholarships for students, provided by the generosity of local donors. Whether you are a high school senior, a current college student, or a non-traditional student we work with donors to help you take the next step in your education.

Florence Evelyn Westhoff Scholarship

For graduating high school seniors or a graduate from a Salina high school with connections to University United Methodist Church (UUMC), Salina, KS. Kansas Wesleyan University students may also apply.

Background

The Florence Evelyn Westhoff Scholarship was established to assist students with ties to the University United Methodist Church, Salina, KS.

Geographic Limitations

• Any Salina area high school

Renewals

• Previous scholarship recipients are eligible to reapply as part of the total applicant pool.