Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits

The Luce/ACLS Collaborative Grant in China Studies offers up to $150,000 for innovative pilot activities aimed at addressing pressing challenges in China Studies over 12 to 18 months. The grant encourages collaborative proposals that enhance teaching resources, develop open-access materials, and promote professional development. Successful projects may lead to new networks, sustainability plans, or white papers. This initiative aims to foster transformative change within the academic community focused on China.

Montana’s CDBG Economic Development Program is designed to stimulate economic development activity by assisting Montana’s private sector to create or retain jobs for low and moderate-income LMI Montanans. The goal is to help communities provide decent housing, suitable living environments, and expanded economic opportunities. 

The Growing Research Access for Nationally Transformative Equity and Diversity program, funded by the National Science Foundation, aims to enhance the research enterprise by addressing structural barriers and promoting inclusivity. By focusing on administrative support and innovative strategies, the initiative seeks to empower diverse organizations to participate in research. Proposals should target institution-wide impacts and scalable models that strengthen human capital and research practices, fostering a more equitable and competitive research landscape.

The American College of Bankruptcy Foundation offers a Pro Bono Grant aimed at supporting legal services organizations that align with its mission. Grants typically do not exceed $15,000, with some exceptions for innovative projects up to $20,000. Eligible initiatives focus on bankruptcy law and pro bono assistance, while ineligible projects include lobbying, fundraising, and those not directly related to debtor-creditor education. The Foundation encourages efforts that promote legal aid for disadvantaged communities.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) invites U.S. researchers to apply for Doctoral Dissertation Research Improvement Grants (DDRIGs) in Arctic Sciences. This initiative aims to support innovative research that enhances understanding of the Arctic's changing environment and cultural systems. The program seeks to foster early career scientists and strengthen STEM workforce development, while also promoting collaboration across federal and international partners to advance Arctic research and logistical capabilities.

The Marin County Bar Association Legal Education Scholarship is designed to assist Marin County residents pursuing a legal education. Sponsored by 10,000 Degrees, this scholarship aims to inspire future legal leaders who are committed to community service. Eligible applicants must be full-time law students in California, with a connection to Marin County and a demonstrated financial need. This initiative reflects a dedication to supporting students who aspire to make a positive impact in their communities.

The Midland Area Community Foundation offers the Midland County Youth Action Council Grants, designed to empower local youth through funding requests up to $10,000. This initiative supports projects that directly enhance the lives of young people in Midland County. Eligible applicants include 501c3 nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities that serve local residents. The foundation emphasizes community improvement, fostering collaboration, and creating lasting legacies that make a significant impact.

Stark Community Foundation

Since 1963, Stark Community Foundation has been helping individuals, families, businesses and nonprofits like you support the causes you care about.

In addition to personalized donor services, we manage a competitive grantmaking program and award grants to address local needs. Today, the Foundation stewards over 1,000 charitable funds totaling $485 million in assets and has granted more than $300 million to nonprofits in our community and beyond.

Scholarships

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties.

The Judge and Mrs. Robert D. Horowitz Legal Scholarship Fund

The Judge and Mrs. Robert D. Horowitz Legal Scholarship Fund was established to assist high school graduates in Stark, Columbiana, Carroll, Tuscarawas, Wayne or Holmes County, Ohio. 

This scholarship is renewable.

The Hoʻākoakoa Lāhui Event Sponsorship Program aims to support nonprofit organizations in Hawaiʻi by providing funding for events that benefit the Native Hawaiian community. With a maximum budget request of $15,000, the program encourages events that promote cultural practices, community engagement, and public resources. Eligible events include award ceremonies, community gatherings, and fundraisers, ensuring they align with the mission of enhancing the lifestyle and entitlements of Native Hawaiians.

The Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), recognizes individuals for their exceptional contributions to mathematics education over a lifetime. Established in 1994, this prestigious honor celebrates those who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, teaching, and service in the field. Eligible nominees must have at least 25 years of distinguished service and may receive the award posthumously, reflecting their lasting impact on the profession.

The R21 Clinical Trial Not Allowed funding opportunity invites innovative research to develop and enhance research models and biological materials vital for studying human health and diseases. It emphasizes the need for new approach methodologies (NAMs) to improve the identification of confounding factors in biomedical research. Projects should have broad applicability across multiple NIH Institutes, focusing on various body systems and disease categories, ensuring relevance to a wide range of health issues.

The Julius Glickman Fellowship in Public Interest Law, supported by the William Wayne Justice Center, aims to enhance access to justice by funding an exceptional Texas Law graduate or judicial clerk to work with a public interest organization. This one-year, full-time fellowship is designed to empower new attorneys to provide vital legal services to underrepresented individuals or groups, focusing on civil legal services, and fostering a commitment to public interest lawyering.

The Dream Big Technology Grant by KindCause.org aims to empower registered 501(c)(3) organizations by funding the implementation of Salesforce CRM. This initiative enhances nonprofit operations, enabling better donor management and campaign efficiency. With automated workflows and integrated tools, nonprofits can improve fundraising efforts and save valuable resources. Successful applicants will receive tailored technology roadmaps and potential funding for essential packages, ensuring they maximize their impact in the community.

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

C. E. Boucher Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established to honor and support engineering students studying at University of Washington, Washington State University, University of Oregon, and Oregon State University. This is a one-time scholarship for $3,000.

Scholarship amounts vary depending on the scholarship applied for. Applicants are encouraged to apply for as many awards as they are eligible to increase the likelihood of receiving one or more awards.

Scholarships can be used for cost of attendance, direct education expenses, including tuition, books, and/or other school-related fees.

If you receive an award, be sure to complete your scholarship acceptance form (online portal). Scholarship awards are paid directly to the academic institution by the end of August.

Jeffrey A. Trail Memorial Fund

Created in memory of Lt. Jeffrey A. Trail in honor of his military service and accomplishments, this Fund offers scholarships to DeKalb County residents who are graduating seniors and continuing their education immediately following high school graduation at an accredited two-year or four-year college or university studying aviation technology (a.k.a. professional flight or similar degree) for pilot training only; or at an independent certified flight training program working toward flight/pilot certifications.

Bob Kelly Scholarship

During his 20 years as President and CEO of San Diego Foundation (SDF), Bob Kelly built an enduring legacy that has seen SDF become the regional leader for information about charitable giving and a strong voice for civic engagement. Among a number of significant achievements as President and CEO, Bob was instrumental in building the Community Scholarship Program which is now the largest scholarship provider in San Diego County outside of the university system.

When establishing his own scholarship, Bob wanted to recognize the important role that both San Diego City College and UC San Diego play in the education of so many San Diegans. His hope is to provide a unique scholarship opportunity to those students who may not have been the top of their class, but have since taken advantage of their own “second chance” and are on the path to success.

This scholarship may be used for tuition, books, fees, room & board, and other educational expenses.

The scholarship may be renewable (depending upon available funds) for up to two years of undergraduate coursework at UC San Diego provided the student maintains a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, good citizenship, and continues to have financial need.

• Average number of awards: 2
• Average amount: $3,500

Beckley Area Foundation

Beckley Area Foundation was established in January 1985 by ten community-minded citizens. It began with a gift of $1.1 million from the Dr. Thomas Walker Memorial Health Foundation as “seed” money for this Raleigh County project. BAF assets have grown to over $70 million with over 500 different funds managed by our three trustee banks. Today, Beckley Area Foundation is one of West Virginia’s largest community foundations.

Since its inception, BAF has distributed over $23 million to charities and other worthy projects in the fields of education, public recreation, health & human services, the arts, animal services and beautification.

Scholarships

The Beckley Area Foundation proudly manages scholarship funds established by individuals, businesses, and organizations dedicated to helping students pursue higher education. Many of these scholarships are tailored for specific schools, fields of study, or graduates from local high schools, while others offer broader opportunities. No matter the path, our scholarships aim to support students from our region as they work toward achieving their educational goals.

Most of these scholarships must be awarded to students from our geographic area or at least preference given to such students. While the majority of scholarships benefit Raleigh County applicants there are others designated for Fayette, Summers, Webster, and Wyoming students. 

Ernest V. Bowman Memorial Scholarship Fund for Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Graduates of Raleigh, Fayette, Summers, Mercer or Wyoming counties of West Virginia attending VA Tech; College upperclassmen (sophomores, juniors, and seniors) as well as graduating seniors; Engineering field of study; “B” average or better; Need based.

This scholarship is renewable.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Law Student Assistance Scholarship

Students entering their third year of law school (current second-year students approaching the third year).

Selection based upon:

• Financial need, above-average law school academic achievement, and demonstrated leadership in undergraduate and law school activities and in community, school, and church.

Awards

• Up to $3,500 in scholarships

Who We Are

Founded in 1996, the Community Foundation of South Georgia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to making South Georgia a better place to live through effective philanthropy. We help individuals, families, nonprofit organizations and businesses establish and manage charitable funds that carry out their philanthropic interests. Serving a geographic area of 35 counties in South Georgia, we facilitate our donors’ charitable plans and goals by creating custom designed funds that meet their specific interests and ensure solid financial management and administration for each fund. 

Harrison Hooks Memorial Scholarship

For a graduating senior from a high school located in Thomas County, Georgia who is enrolled in or intends on enrolling in a college or university located in the state of Georgia and has attained at least a 3.0 GPA in high school. The award is based on Academics, Leadership Qualities, Extracurricular School Activities, Community Service and Financial Need.

The Mike A. Myers Fellowship in Public Interest Law, supported by the William Wayne Justice Center, aims to enhance access to justice for underserved communities. This one-year fellowship funds a Texas Law graduate or judicial clerk to work with a nonprofit focusing on legal services for victims of domestic violence or sexual assault. Preference is given to candidates proposing to work with Texas Advocacy Project. The fellowship emphasizes collaboration with host organizations to ensure effective project supervision.

The Texas Law Postgraduate Public Interest Fellowships, established by the William Wayne Justice Center in 2023, support graduating students to engage in public interest legal work for 12 months post-graduation. This program aims to empower students committed to serving underrepresented communities through legal services. Up to two fellowships will be awarded for full-time positions with public interest organizations starting in Spring 2026, fostering hands-on legal experience and enhancing access to justice.

AmeriCorps improves lives, strengthens communities, and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. AmeriCorps brings people together to tackle some of the country’s most pressing challenges through national service and volunteerism. AmeriCorps members serve with organizations dedicated to the improvement of communities and those serving

The ECF of The Boeing Company: Alabama Chapter Grant Program provides funding to support local nonprofits focused on health and human services. This initiative, driven by employee contributions, aims to enhance community well-being and foster innovation. Boeing is committed to investing in environmental sustainability and advancing social justice, ensuring that funds make a significant impact where employees live and work. For first-time applicants, it's advised to consult with the local ECF before applying.

The Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) aims to cultivate skilled clinician-scientist leaders to meet the nation's biomedical research demands. It supports domestic organizations in developing dual-degree training that integrates clinical and research education, leading to both a clinical degree (e.g., M.D., D.O.) and a Ph.D. Through comprehensive mentoring and career development, MSTP prepares trainees for impactful careers in health-related research, ensuring a robust pipeline of qualified scientists.

The Affiliate Grant – Kenneth B. Cummins Grant for Partner Affiliates, offered by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, supports creative projects that enhance the visibility of mathematics teachers and their affiliates. Eligible applicants must be NCTM associate affiliates in good standing and address significant needs in their mathematical communities. Projects should be innovative and completed within a specified timeframe. This grant fosters collaboration and engagement in mathematics education.

Ryan R. Wagner Memorial Scholarship

Award:

• One time award of $2,000. Students may re-apply for continued support.

The Technology Initiative Grant (TIG) program by the Legal Services Corporation aims to enhance legal services for low-income populations through innovative technology. It encourages partnerships with justice organizations and supports projects that improve service delivery and efficiency. With a minimum funding request of $40,000, the program seeks to implement new strategies or enhance existing technologies to provide high-quality legal assistance. The initiative fosters replication of successful methodologies from previous projects and other sectors.