Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits

Developing Deuel County 

Deuel County has faced the challenges of continued development, sustained job growth, population growth and quality housing for quite some time. These challenges seem to be inherent in the rural areas of our country and demand continued attention if the communities are to hold their own in today’s economy. 

To that end, there have been a number of development organizations through the years that have done their best to promote growth. Some have been based at the city level and some at the county level. Without giving a history lesson listing all the development organizations of the past, it should be sufficient to note that Deuel Area Development, Inc. (DADI) is the current group working to develop business and housing in Deuel County. 

You have probably also heard of the Deuel County Community Foundation (DCCF). The foundation is another ‘development’ organization but it works not with business and housing, but rather with others in Deuel County to offer quality-of-life enhancements to the area.  

Deuel County Community Foundation Scholarship

• $500.00 Scholarships will be awarded during second semester of first year.

The ECLAT Foundation Scholarship, offered by the Communities Foundation of Texas, provides $2,000 scholarships to graduating seniors and college students in Texas. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 for high school or 3.0 for college, and meet certain residency criteria. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing a baccalaureate degree at accredited institutions in Texas, fostering educational opportunities and community growth.

The New Jersey Heritage Fellowship, awarded by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, recognizes exemplary folk and traditional artists for their lifetime achievements and contributions to the state's cultural heritage. Each fellowship provides a $20,000 award, aimed at fostering public interest in the arts and supporting artistic excellence. Since its inception in 1966, this initiative has aimed to enhance artistic expression and the inclusion of art in public spaces throughout New Jersey.

Nellie G. Allen Curiosity Shop Scholarship

Award:

• One-time award of $1,000.

The National Leaders of Color Fellowship (LoCF) is an eight-month online program designed to foster multicultural leadership within the creative and cultural sectors. Participants receive expert guidance, engage in strategic learning focused on anti-racist practices, and build national networks. This fellowship is open to early to mid-career leaders who self-identify as Black, Indigenous, or people of color, and encourages diversity across various dimensions. Alumni can collaborate with regional arts organizations post-fellowship.

Philip L. Bartlett Scholarship

Award:

One time award of $5,000. 

The SSG & AC Edwards Fellowship, established by the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts, supports female-identifying visual artists, particularly Native Americans. This fully-funded, two-week residency provides artists with private accommodations and studio space, encouraging creativity and diversity in the arts. Emerging and established artists can apply in various disciplines, including painting, sculpture, and music composition. The fellowship aims to foster artistic development and community engagement within the vibrant environment of VCCA.

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Andrew J. Lavagnino Scholarship of Kindness

The Andrew J. Lavagnino Scholarship of Kindness honors Andrew Jonathan Lavagnino, a 2014 graduate of Eastmont High School. Andrew was known for the kindness, compassion, and joy that he brought to those around him. He was passionate about physical fitness, food, sports, music, and movies and loved his family, friends, and pets. This scholarship aims to support students who embody kindness and compassion to all those around them.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Eleanor Polley Women's Golf Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Dennis Sruba and Joanne Polley, who established the Eleanor Polley Women's Golf Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County in memory of Eleanor Polley. Eleanor Polley was Executive Director of the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce when she died suddenly in 1995 at the age of 49. She was an untiring booster of the White Lake area and Muskegon County as a whole. She was also an avid promoter of women's golf. The Eleanor Polley Women's Golf Scholarship Fund was established in Eleanor's memory as part of the White Lake Community Fund by her family, her many friends, and the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. It will provide scholarships to women college students who are also avid golfers.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Foundation for MCC - Edward H. & Wilma Kyvig Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Kyvig family, who established the Edward H. & Wilma Kyvig Scholarship of the Foundation for Muskegon Community College. The Kyvig family established this scholarship to honor their parents, Edward and Wilma who both were instructors at Muskegon Community College. Edward and Wilma were very passionate about education and the importance of students obtaining a college degree. This scholarship was established to assist a student of good academic standing who shows potential and who is deserving of financial assistance.

The Vitality Grants: Arts Education program by the Rochester Area Community Foundation aims to enhance equitable access to arts education for PreK-12 students in the region. By supporting local nonprofit organizations, the grant encourages vibrant arts programming, geographic equity, and increased student engagement. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and those with fiscal sponsors, focusing on overcoming barriers like transportation and childcare to ensure comprehensive participation in arts education initiatives.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

Foundation for MCC - Richard Kraft/Suzanne Kraft Mateer Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Richard H. Kraft, who established the Richard Kraft/Suzanne Kraft Mateer Scholarship of the Foundation for Muskegon Community College. Richard graduated from Muskegon Community College in 1949 and then continued his education at Michigan State University obtaining an engineering degree. He started and operated a successful consulting and engineering firm in Flint. He believes that starting at Muskegon Community College was the best thing he ever did before continuing his education. This scholarship is presented to graduating seniors of Muskegon, Ottawa, Oceana and Newaygo County high schools who will be attending Muskegon Community College, then pursuing a degree at any accredited college or university.

Community Foundation for McHenry County

The Community Foundation for McHenry County (CFMC) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity created by and for the residents of McHenry County. Originally known as the McHenry County Community Foundation, we were established to provide a sustainable source of charitable giving for local nonprofit organizations and students.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation for McHenry County offers scholarships to students seeking to advance their education. Each Scholarship Fund was created by members of the McHenry County community and designated for a certain cause, school, or region.

Boe-Dahm Family Scholarship

Charles and Angela (Dahm) Boe met while attending Western Illinois University, where they formed lifelong friendships and created lasting memories that became the foundation of their lives together. Their shared experience at WIU left a lasting impression, and the university continues to hold a special place in their hearts. As strong advocates for giving back to the community, Charles and Angela established the Boe-Dahm Family Scholarship to support students as they pursue higher education.

The Boe-Dahm Family Scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating high school senior who meets the eligibility requirements outlined below and plans to continue their education at an eligible post-secondary institution. This scholarship is intended to recognize students who meet the academic eligibility requirements and demonstrate meaningful involvement in their school and community.

Service One Credit Union offers a Teacher Grant program providing 12 grants of $250 each for K-12 teachers who are members or family members of members. The initiative aims to support classroom supply needs, reflecting the credit union's commitment to community engagement and educational support. Applications open annually from August 15 to September 30, with notifications sent by October 15. This program exemplifies Service One's dedication to enhancing educational resources for local teachers.

Taylor Family Scholarship

Award:

One time award of $6,000. Student may re-apply if awarded their Junior year

The Arkansas Heritage Grant aims to enhance the appreciation and enjoyment of the state's rich cultural heritage. It supports community-based initiatives that promote heritage-related programs and foster collaboration among local organizations, businesses, and government entities. The grant encourages the development of sustainable projects that contribute to heritage tourism and the overall quality of life in Arkansas, making it a vital resource for non-profits and community groups.

The Bisbee Foundation Historic Preservation Grants aim to support nonprofit organizations and for-profit entities in preserving Bisbee's historical and cultural heritage. Grants require a one-to-one match with non-public funds and necessitate detailed project evidence, including funding assurances and architectural estimates. Eligible applicants must demonstrate nonprofit status and provide documentation of historic significance. The foundation emphasizes the importance of maintaining Bisbee's unique architectural and environmental legacy, making it a vital resource for community enrichment.

The Genung Scholarship

The Genung Scholarship Fund was established as a generous lasting legacy of Normal & Eleanor Genung. The scholarship is intended to support first-generation college students with gaps between their cost of attendance and financial aid package, while attending any public Arizona post-secondary institution. Recipients may be eligible to renew their awards for up to 4 years, if good academic standing is maintained.

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Follow Your Dreams Scholarship

The Follow Your Dreams Scholarship, established in 2025, supports students from Cashmere High School who are pursuing post-secondary education through a trade school, apprenticeship, or certificate program. This scholarship is designed to encourage and assist students as they take the next step toward building practical skills, meaningful careers, and a future aligned with their goals.

The Deadwood Fund Grant, funded by gambling revenue in Deadwood, South Dakota, offers financial assistance ranging from $1,000 to $25,000 for projects aimed at restoring or rehabilitating historic buildings and sites. Eligible applicants include individuals and organizations that demonstrate adherence to the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. Projects must provide public historic preservation benefits and often require a dollar-for-dollar match from non-federal sources, ensuring sustainable use after completion.

The Oregon Heritage Excellence Awards celebrate remarkable contributions to heritage preservation by individuals and organizations. Nominations for the 2026 awards will open in fall 2025, honoring outstanding efforts that inspire future work. This initiative, supported by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, emphasizes the importance of volunteers in maintaining Oregon's rich heritage, promoting inclusivity, and creating sustainable partnerships for the next century.

The A. Lindsay & Olive B. O’Connor Foundation offers grants up to $2,000 aimed at enhancing the lives of children and youth in Delaware County, NY. Eligible applicants include municipalities, religious organizations, and 501(c)(3) entities. However, individual applicants and proposals for debt repayment or completed projects are not considered. This initiative seeks to directly impact the community's quality of life.

The Lawrence "Larry" Cole Memorial Scholarship, established in partnership with Communities Foundation of Texas, offers annual scholarships up to $6,000 for Texas students pursuing degrees in machining or manufacturing fields. Eligible candidates include graduating high school seniors, current college students, and adult learners who maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. This scholarship aims to support individuals committed to advancing their education in these essential technology sectors.

The Self-Sustainability Granting offered by the Women’s Fund of East Tennessee aims to empower low-income women and girls by providing one-time grants to agencies that support their journey towards independence. This initiative focuses on addressing urgent needs and expanding services, ensuring a lasting impact in the community. By aligning with the fund's mission, these grants foster resilience and promote sustainable futures for families in East Tennessee.

The Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program, part of FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, offers funding to state, local, tribal, and territorial governments for projects aimed at reducing or eliminating repetitive flood damage. Eligible applicants are chosen based on project ranking, cost-effectiveness, and adherence to hazard mitigation plans, which are required for funding post-disaster. This program plays a crucial role in enhancing community resilience against future flood risks.

What is DCNP?

The DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership (DCNP) exists to help strengthen nonprofit organizations in DeKalb County. Stronger organizations that are effective, well-run, resilient, efficient, and sustainable can enhance the quality of life in DeKalb County – which is our ultimate purpose!

Mission Statement:

The DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership strengthens the nonprofit sector through leadership, professional development, and collaboration.

Future Leaders Internship (FLI) Grants

DCNP members can apply for matching funds (up to $500, dollar for dollar) to support paid internships. Applications are accepted year-round. 

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley 

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their philanthropic goals through the establishment of charitable funds that support the needs of Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster counties. With over $100 million in assets, CFHV manages nearly 600 charitable funds and has distributed more than $777 million in grants and scholarships since January 2000. We lead initiatives to address urgent community needs such as food insecurity and educational challenges, offering both immediate relief and long-term support.

Ronnie Berg Drummers Scholarship

Established in memory of gifted drummer Ronnie Berg, this scholarship is available to graduating high school seniors and/or students already in college who share Ronnie’s enthusiasm for drumming. The scholarship will be awarded to individuals who will be full time students at any accredited college or university in the United States. It may be used for tuition, books and fees.

Type of Award

One-time scholarship payable to school.

Current High School

Any high school