Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in California

Catholic Extension provides essential funding to support the construction, expansion, or renovation of churches and community facilities. This initiative aims to meet the facility needs of under-resourced Catholic dioceses across the U.S. By focusing on active projects, Catholic Extension ensures that communities can enhance their worship spaces and support local ministries, ultimately fostering a stronger church community. Funding is available for both minor and major requests, with an emphasis on urgent needs and robust funding strategies.

The Pat Shinobu Scholarship Fund, established in 2015 by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, aims to support students from Hawai‘i pursuing higher education. Eligible applicants must be full-time undergraduate students with a minimum GPA of 2.7, demonstrate financial need, and provide a recommendation letter. Preference is given to public high school graduates from Hawai'i Island and previous recipients who maintain eligibility. This fund fosters educational opportunities and equity within the community.

The Mission Program Grants: New Worshiping Communities Seed Grant offers up to $10,000 to support the establishment of new worshiping communities connected to the Presbyterian Church (USA). These grants focus on covering initial operational costs for the first year, including salaries and educational materials. Eligible applicants must be newly formed communities established after July 2010, located in the U.S. or Puerto Rico. This initiative fosters community growth rather than expanding existing congregations.

The Scholarships for Careers Endowment, established by a local family in connection with the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains, aims to support graduates of Elk Lake School District and the Susquehanna County Career & Technology Center. This scholarship prioritizes students with financial need and promise for future success, assisting them in pursuing vocational, technical, academic, or other post-secondary programs. Additionally, it contributes to special projects within the school district and community.

Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains

Our mission at the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is to improve the region’s quality of life through the power of philanthropy. We do this by offering individuals, families, and businesses the most effective charitable giving tools available in the marketplace today. Founded in 1998, the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is honored to work with hundreds of donors, nonprofits, advisors, and civic leaders to achieve dreams for making the Endless Mountains region of Northeastern Pennsylvania an even better place to live for everyone.

Scholarships

Many generous individuals, families, and businesses have established scholarship funds to provide support to graduates in our region. Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors.

Thomas Conaty Memorial Scholarship

Established by the family of Mr. Conaty to provide a college or post-secondary degree program scholarship to a student from Blue Ridge, Elk Lake or Montrose Area School Districts, including home schooled students from those districts. Preference will be given to a student who will pursue a degree in business or a related field.

The Jean Estes Epstein Charitable Foundation Scholarship supports public school students from Hawaii in their pursuit of higher education on the mainland U.S. Established by Jean Estes Epstein in 2007, the scholarship aims to enhance educational experiences by exposing students to diverse environments. Eligible candidates must be Hawaii residents, graduating from public high schools with a minimum GPA of 3.7, and demonstrate financial need while being full-time college freshmen.

Witness To Win Inc

Witness to Win, Inc. is a product of the Mathena family’s deep commitment to honoring God and God’s mission as stated in Matthew 28:19-20. These legacy values of giving and sharing were not only taught but were caught by the Mathena children. Many times, foundations are created to honor people and their legacy; however, Gary, Teresa, David, Melissa and John’s desire is to glorify the person of Jesus Christ and make Him known to all peoples. Therefore, the Mathena children unanimously decided to create the Witness to Win Foundation in 2017.

Over the past 10 years, the Mathena Family has given over $80M through their tithes and offerings to their local churches and to charitable organizations whose sole purpose is to share the love and message of Jesus Christ. 

Witness to Win Grant Program

To encourage and support charitable 501(c)(3) organizations who have as among their primary purpose to share and spread the gospel of Jesus Christ to the nations. These organizations will directly fulfill this purpose through Christian religious education and qualified Christian ministries. These charitable organizations must all be headquartered in the United States and must adhere to Christian, moral, and conservative standards of belief and conduct as specified in our Statements of Belief.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

Ragland Bloem Scholarship Fund (Antrim and Kalkaska Counties)

Available to graduating seniors from Antrim or Kalkaska Counties who are planning to pursue education in environmental or related studies.

The College Life Protected: Professional Development Grant, established by GradGuard, supports professional development opportunities for individuals in higher education. Eligible applicants can seek funding for initiatives such as conference fees and training institutes that directly enhance student success and professional growth. The grant prioritizes projects that build skills and networks, ultimately improving the educational experience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of higher education as a public good and encourages ongoing professional development within the community.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

Riopelle/Dowden Technical Scholarship Endowment (Regional)

Available to students from the five county area that are enrolled, or planning to enroll, in an associate's degree, certificate, or apprenticeship program.

Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains

Our mission at the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is to improve the region’s quality of life through the power of philanthropy. We do this by offering individuals, families, and businesses the most effective charitable giving tools available in the marketplace today. Founded in 1998, the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is honored to work with hundreds of donors, nonprofits, advisors, and civic leaders to achieve dreams for making the Endless Mountains region of Northeastern Pennsylvania an even better place to live for everyone.

Scholarships

Many generous individuals, families, and businesses have established scholarship funds to provide support to graduates in our region. Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors.

Borislav Dumitrov Memorial Scholarship

Established by the family of Mr. Dumitrov to provide tuition assistance for a graduating senior from any of the High Schools in Susquehanna County who will matriculate at a trade school or post-secondary degree program.

The Chevron Changing the Face of Golf Scholarship, awarded by the LPGA Foundation, aims to empower female high school seniors from minority backgrounds pursuing STEM studies. Established in 2022, this scholarship promotes diversity in golf and education, honoring Dinah Shore's legacy. By supporting young women, the LPGA Foundation continues its mission to change the face of golf and provide educational opportunities, enhancing representation in both golf and STEM fields.

The Fiscal Year 2027 Regional Nutrition Hubs initiative by the US HHS aims to enhance nutrition services across regional health centers. By providing targeted technical assistance, the program seeks to improve health outcomes through effective nutritional interventions. This initiative supports HRSA's mission to expand access to high-quality healthcare services, ultimately benefiting communities by addressing dietary needs and managing health conditions. With a focus on collaboration, the program is set to strengthen the health infrastructure at the local level.

EverGreen Dreams

“Empowering young Black women to achieve educational excellence and unlock their limitless potential.”

Today, EverGreen Dreams is a community rooted in hope, equity, and empowerment. Our work centers on providing the resources, mentorship, and opportunities Black women need to thrive. We believe education is more than a pathway to success—it’s a tool for liberation and a foundation for transformation. By investing in the education and development of Black women, we’re dismantling systemic barriers and planting seeds of possibility that will grow for generations.

Building Opportunities for Sistas to Shine (B.O.S.S.) Scholarship

Introduction

Black women navigate systemic barriers in education and the workplace every day. EverGreen Dreams exists to change that narrative. As an organization founded by a Black woman and championed by advocates deeply rooted in our communities, we're committed to creating pathways to success for the next generation of Black female scholars. Through the Building Opportunities for Sistas to Shine (B.O.S.S.) Scholarship, we provide financial support to two graduating high school seniors, awarding each at least $1,000 to help them pursue their educational dreams with one less obstacle in their way.

Description

The Building Opportunities for Sistas to Shine Scholarship (B.O.S.S.) aims to make racial equality a reality by helping outstanding Black cis or transgendered women high school students achieve their dreams to continue their education. 

The First International Nutritionist/Dietitian (FIND) Fellowship supports foreign nationals pursuing postgraduate studies in the USA, with a clear plan to return to their home country. Offered by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation, this fellowship is part of a broader awards program that recognizes achievements and provides stipends to dietetic professionals and students. Applications are accepted annually, with award numbers varying based on funding and investment activities.

The NIAF Jim Cantalupo Scholarship is awarded to exceptional Italian American undergraduate students majoring in Italian, Spanish, or business, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.5. It aims to support those who demonstrate a commitment to Italian culture and heritage. Applicants must hold an active NIAF membership, which can be from a parent or grandparent. This scholarship reflects the National Italian American Foundation's dedication to preserving and promoting the Italian American community.

The Forensic Pathology Advanced Training Grant, supported by the College of American Pathologists Foundation, aims to address the physician shortage in pathology by providing CAP Junior Members with a four-week rotation at an ACGME Accredited Forensic Fellowship Training Program. This initiative offers hands-on experience, mentorship, and training in forensic pathology, while funding up to $5,000 for eligible expenses. The program is open to all CAP Junior Members in accredited US residency programs who have completed their first year.

The Engaging Young Catholics Grants aim to support ministries that provide faith formation to children, teens, young adults, and families. By focusing on the pastoral needs of young Catholics, the program enhances community vibrancy and fosters new leadership within the church. Catholic Extension prioritizes operational support and seed funding for initiatives that develop youth and young adult ministries, ensuring that dioceses can effectively reach and engage younger generations in their faith.

The A. Lucchetti Martino Scholarship is awarded to outstanding Italian American undergraduate students majoring in International Relations, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.5. Applicants must hold an active NIAF Membership, which can be obtained through a parent or grandparent. This scholarship fosters commitment to Italian culture and heritage while supporting students enrolled full-time in U.S. accredited institutions. The National Italian American Foundation, a non-profit organization, promotes the rich traditions and contributions of Italian Americans.

The NIAF Gabelli Foundation Scholarship supports Italian graduate students from Bocconi University attending Columbia University’s School of Business for their MBA. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher and possess an active NIAF membership, which can be obtained through a parent or grandparent. This scholarship aims to promote Italian heritage and foster academic excellence among the Italian American community.

The Medical Student Travel Award aims to support medical students interested in pathology by providing up to $1,200 for travel expenses to the CAP Annual Meeting in Las Vegas (October 3-6, 2026). This award facilitates valuable learning experiences through networking opportunities and insights into the pathology field, enhancing the awardees' understanding of residency training and the role of pathologists in healthcare.

The Caroline Guarini Memorial Scholarship, offered by the National Italian American Foundation, supports outstanding Italian American students majoring in music or related fields. Eligible applicants must be from New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut, maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher, and hold an active NIAF membership. This scholarship aims to foster musical talent while honoring Italian heritage and culture.

The NIAF Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation Scholarship, awarded by the National Italian American Foundation, supports outstanding Italian American students pursuing higher education. Eligible candidates include incoming freshmen, undergraduates, or graduate students, preferably with a permanent residence in Florida and a minimum GPA of 3.5. This scholarship emphasizes the importance of maintaining Italian heritage, encouraging students to engage with their cultural roots while pursuing academic excellence.

The Youth Sports Grant offers up to $5,000 in travel funding for nonprofessional youth sports teams to participate in sporting events in North Carolina and beyond. This grant is available on a rolling basis and is limited to one application per county each year. Eligible applicants include local government units and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. The aim is to support youth engagement in sports and facilitate travel costs such as transportation and lodging.

The Massachusetts Italian American Charitable Society Scholarship, offered by the National Italian American Foundation, supports outstanding Italian American students residing in Massachusetts. To qualify, applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher and hold an active NIAF membership, which can be through a parent or grandparent. This scholarship aims to foster the cultural heritage of Italian Americans while aiding students in their academic pursuits.

The Donald Mazzoni Scholarship, offered by the National Italian American Foundation, is designed for two exemplary Italian American undergraduate students majoring in business. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate at least 50% Italian heritage, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and possess an active NIAF membership. This scholarship aims to support students dedicated to preserving Italian culture and heritage while pursuing their academic goals in the United States.

The Gray Lady Foundation Grant aims to enhance canine health, particularly for Miniature Schnauzers, by funding research in genetics and diseases. Applications are accepted twice a year, with deadlines on April 1 and October 1, and grants are awarded on October 31 and April 30, respectively. The foundation is dedicated to supporting organizations that focus on improving the quality of life and responsible breeding of canines, ensuring sustainable health initiatives.