Best Aging Grants in Colorado

The NIA Expanding Research in AD/ADRD Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program aims to enhance the research workforce by providing intensive research experiences for recent graduates. This initiative supports early-stage investigators in Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias, addressing a critical shortage of researchers in the field. Participants engage in independent research, mentorship, and professional development, equipping them with skills necessary for advanced degrees and research careers in aging and dementia. The program fosters innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration essential for advancing AD/ADRD research.

The Roaring Fork Valley Community Health Fund aims to enhance overall health in the Roaring Fork Valley by funding projects focused on advanced primary care, social determinants of health, workforce education, and health education. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving local communities. Priority is given to initiatives that embody innovation, equity, legacy, and integrity, reflecting the foundation's commitment to accessible healthcare for all.

The McKnight Clinical Translational Research Scholarship supports young investigators focusing on cognitive aging and age-related memory loss. Funded by the McKnight Brain Research Foundation, this scholarship offers $65,000 annually for two years, plus an education stipend. Eligible applicants should have completed their PhD or residency within the last five years and conduct their research in accredited U.S. institutions. The award emphasizes rigorous training and aims to foster careers in human cognitive aging research.

The Alzheimer's Disease Programs Initiative (ADPI) aims to foster the development of dementia-capable community health worker programs within the National Aging Network. This initiative, supported by the US HHS: Administration for Community Living (ACL), seeks to enhance dementia screening, reduce barriers to care, and improve access to essential services for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. By integrating community health workers into aging services, the program aspires to elevate the quality of life for those affected.

The JTMF Foundation Grant focuses on improving the lives of individuals in need, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. By partnering with organizations addressing immediate needs and long-term challenges, the foundation supports children, older adults, veterans, and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Guided by Catholic values, JTMF aims to empower communities while seeking innovative solutions to societal issues. Organizations that align with these focus areas are encouraged to connect, fostering a collaborative effort towards meaningful impact.

The McKnight Brain Research Foundation Innovator Awards aim to support innovative research in cognitive aging and memory loss, offering two 3-year grants of $750,000 each. Targeted at early-career investigators, the program encourages high-risk, high-gain proposals that explore clinical translational research and the biological mechanisms of cognitive aging. By fostering emerging scientific leaders, the initiative seeks to advance transformative discoveries in this critical area of aging research, enhancing understanding and treatment of age-related cognitive decline.

The Sagol Network GerOmic Award for Junior Faculty supports early career investigators in aging research, focusing on -omics studies related to biological aging and age-related diseases. Research areas include genomics, proteomics, and interventions targeting aging. Eligible applicants are independent researchers at U.S. not-for-profit institutions, with 10 years or fewer since their postdoctoral training. The award may cover overhead costs, promoting innovative research in the vital field of gerontology.

The AARP Community Challenge Grant supports innovative projects that enhance community livability for people aged 50 and older. Funded by the AARP Foundation, these demonstration grants range from $10,000 to $25,000 and aim to improve pedestrian safety, expand broadband access, and reconnect divided communities. Since 2017, AARP has awarded over $20 million in grants, fostering immediate improvements and long-term progress across the United States, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The AARP Community Challenge Grant: Capacity-Building Microgrant offers $2,500 to support projects that enhance community livability for residents aged 50 and older. Initiated in 2017, it has funded over 1,700 projects nationwide, focusing on immediate improvements and long-term progress. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and government entities, aiming to implement innovative programs in areas like disaster preparedness, walkability, and home modifications. This initiative fosters inclusive communities and empowers older adults.

The SMSNA Scholars in Sexuality Research Grants Program supports junior investigators in the field of human sexuality and sexual wellness. With a funding of $7,500, the program aims to attract emerging researchers and clinicians to sexual medicine. Applications are accepted from graduate students, residents, and post-doctoral fellows, with an emphasis on diverse backgrounds. The program promotes ethical research practices and requires mid-term and final progress reports to ensure accountability.

The SMSNA Scholars in Sexuality Research Grants Program supports junior investigators in exploring human sexuality and sexual wellness. Funded by the Sexual Medicine Society of North America, this initiative provides $5,000 to undergraduate, medical, and graduate school students. Awards are disbursed in two payments, with specific reporting requirements. This program aims to enhance research in sexual medicine and foster diversity in the field, particularly focusing on historically underserved populations.

The Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) supports small-scale research grants for institutions with limited NIH funding, emphasizing biomedical research experiences for undergraduates. Eligible institutions must award baccalaureate science degrees and have received no more than $6 million in NIH support over the past seven years. This initiative aims to enhance the research environment at these institutions, fostering student involvement in research activities.

The Aging Research Dissertation Awards aim to enhance diversity in the scientific research workforce focused on aging and related health conditions. This funding opportunity encourages applicants to submit Letters of Intent prior to full application deadlines. Key submission dates for standard and renewal applications span from February 2025 to October 2026, ensuring a wide array of research topics can be addressed.

The NIA Academic Leadership Career Award (K07) provides funding for established investigators to strengthen research capacity in aging and Alzheimer's Disease. The program supports the development of educational infrastructure, mentorship, and career development activities. Key deadlines for applications include February 12, June 12, and October 12 from 2025 to 2027. This award is specifically for research not involving independent clinical trials, allowing applicants to gain experience in trials led by others.

The Stimulating Hematology Investigation: New Endeavors (SHINE) program aims to enhance nonmalignant hematology research aligned with the goals of the NIDDK, NIA, and NHLBI. It invites R01 grant applications focused on innovative and early translational hematology topics, fostering growth in this critical research area. Key deadlines for applications span from February 2025 to October 2027, allowing for both standard and renewal submissions.

The Best Life Community Awards, funded by Altra Foundation Inc, invites nominations for nonprofit organizations that have made a significant impact in their communities. Altra members can nominate eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits they support with their time, talents, or financial contributions. The selected nonprofit will receive a $10,000 grant, aimed at fostering initiatives in education, health, and community services across specific counties in the U.S. Nominate today to help recognize outstanding contributions!

The Fogarty Emerging Global Leader Award supports early career research scientists from low- or middle-income countries (LMIC) by providing research funding and mentored career development for three to five years. This program encourages LMIC scientists in health-related fields to develop projects aligned with their country's health priorities, fostering independent research careers within their institutions. Applications are welcomed from junior faculty members, enhancing global health research and capacity in LMICs.

The Fiscal Year 2027 AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP Competition invites communities to apply for funding aimed at engaging adults aged 55 and older in addressing pressing local needs. Through national service and volunteerism, AmeriCorps strengthens communities and fosters civic engagement. This open competition spans all states and territories, encouraging organizations to harness the skills and expertise of older adults to enhance community well-being and promote a culture of service.

Joseph G Markoly Foundation Inc

When Joseph Markoly originally established the foundation more than thirty years ago, its focus was on Alzheimer’s and heart disease support, funded through a number of the larger national disease-related organizations. Over time the focus has shifted to helping small to mid-size organizations in our local communities which support children and seniors in a variety of effective ways. 

Markoly Foundation was established in honor of Joseph G. Markoly, an entrepreneur and philanthropist who wanted to make a positive impact in people’s lives. Joseph’s family was affected directly by both Alzheimer’s and heart disease having lost a family member to each condition. For that reason, the foundation dedicates a majority of their resources to providing grants to organizations that focus on the treatment of each of these diseases. In addition, Markoly Foundation supports a variety of programs dedicated to helping children and seniors by providing services, supplies, programs and research in areas impacting these demographics.

Joseph G. Markoly Foundation Grant Support for Elder Organizations

The Markoly Foundation takes pride in supporting local organizations that provide services for elders in our community. Seniors face a number of challenges that come with aging, especially when they don’t have loved ones who are able to assist them with their needs. We provide grants for a variety of senior-related programs from Caregiver Education and Support to Emergency Meal Delivery and Transportation Services.

We are dedicated to providing funding for local nonprofit programs that improve the quality of life for all, but particularly for the children and elders in our community.

Aid to Agencies

About the Program

The Arapahoe County Aid to Agencies (A2A) Program provides financial support to nonprofit organizations delivering essential services to Arapahoe County residents. Established in 2008 by the Arapahoe County Board of County Commissioners, the program was created to address critical community needs through strategic partnerships with local nonprofit providers.

Since its inception, the program has awarded more than $30 million to nonprofits serving residents across the county. 

For the 2026–2027 funding cycle, approximately $3,079,500 in General Fund support will be available, including designated allocations for safety net providers. 

In 2025, the program framework was updated to align with Arapahoe Forward and strengthen transparency, accountability, measurable outcomes, and alignment with community-identified needs. The updated framework prioritizes investments that address documented service gaps and improve quality of life for Arapahoe County residents.

Safety net providers are nonprofit organizations that deliver essential services to vulnerable or underserved populations. These organizations are typically distinguished by one or more of the following: 

• Serving as the sole or primary provider of a critical service  
• Offering services that do not duplicate existing County programs  
• Addressing high-need and high-impact service areas with demonstrated community demand  

Organizations currently designated as safety net providers: 

• Three Birds Alliance (formerly Gateway Domestic Violence Services)  
• Aurora Mental Health Center & Recovery – Detox Services  

These organizations receive direct base funding outside of the competitive application pool.

Joseph L. Ruby Student Scholarship Fund

Established in honor of former Direction Home Akron Canton President and CEO Joseph Ruby to award scholarships to students enrolled in gerontology, social work, nursing or a related health care program.

Amount:

• $5,000 or more

Number of awards:

• Varies

Renewal:

• Must reapply annually by submission of a new application.

Bedford Community Health Foundation

Our Mission: The Bedford Community Health Foundation:

• Works to identify and address community health needs;
• Awards scholarships for nursing programs and allied health education;
• Makes grants to non-profit organizations providing direct health services;
• Encourages community involvement through donations and service;
• Serves as a community health information resource.

Scholarships

The Bedford Community Health Foundation offers a variety of scholarships for individuals pursuing certification, degrees, and advanced degrees in health-related fields. Students can be full-time nursing students, employed nurses seeking additional education, full-time allied health students, employed health providers wanting to specialize and high school students enrolled in the Governor’s Health Academy at Susie G. Gibson Science & Technology Center.

David W. and Sandra L.R. Boyes Physician Education Scholarship

The David W. and Sandra L. R. Boyes Physician Education Scholarship is for health professionals and specialists who seek continuing education in the field of gerontology. It is the only scholarship that does not require graduates to pursue employment in the Town or County of Bedford. This scholarship is open to specialists of all kinds including Chiropractors, Physical Therapists, Physicians Assistants, Osteopaths and Registered Nurses.

David and Sandra Boyes promoted health and healthy living throughout their careers and in volunteer roles during their retirements. David held a BA Degree in Math and Chemistry. He worked at Owens Corning and at Piedmont Label in Bedford. Sandra, in addition to her BSN degree, held a Ph.D. in Education which enabled her to actively pursue her two passions – education and medicine. In Bedford, she taught in the Bedford Memorial Hospital LPN school of Nursing from 1969 to 1986. She taught in Bedford County schools from 1986 to 1990. David was killed in a tragic accident in 2006. Sandra continued their shared vision of impacting health care for seniors through the creation of this scholarship.

Our Mission

KidsGardening creates opportunities for kids to play, learn, and grow through gardening, engaging their natural curiosity and wonder.

We want every child to experience the unique transformation that occurs when they spend time caring for a garden, be it outside, in a classroom, or in a cup on the kitchen windowsill. Since 1982, KidsGardening has served as a premier support provider for youth garden programs nationwide.

We support educators and families with grant funding, original educational resources, inspiration, and community to get more kids learning through the garden.

Growing the Future Intergenerational Garden Grant

In celebration of Miracle-Gro’s 75th anniversary, Miracle-Gro and KidsGardening are partnering to fund 75 intergenerational youth garden grants in 2026.

Intergenerational gardens provide opportunities for older gardeners to pass along traditions, knowledge, and skills to the next generation or share the experience of developing skills if new to gardening. In turn, young people bring their curiosity, wonder, and contagious enthusiasm for learning and life, exciting everyone involved in the growing process.

The 2026 Growing the Future Intergenerational Garden Grant is designed to support gardens that intentionally bring children and older adults together through shared gardening experiences.

Funding Priorities

The selection of winners is prioritized based on demonstrated need and program impact. KidsGardening considers a variety of factors when determining needs, including:

• Socioeconomic & Sociodemographic Factors: How does the program exist within or engage a community that has been systematically denied resources, whether physical assets and money or representative leadership and community services? Organizations affected by multiple socioeconomic and sociodemographic factors are given priority.

• Program Funding and Support: Does an organization have access to consistent, substantial monetary support or prior grant funding? Or are pre-existing resources (financial or otherwise) limited? Organizations experiencing the latter are given priority.

• Impact: Will grant funding dramatically expand learning opportunities for program participants? Does the intended impact reflect the needs of the community? Organizations working with more than 50 youth will be given priority.

Award Packages

Grantees will receive:

• A $500 cash award check
• A $250 coupon to purchase essential gardening supplies from ScottsMiracleGro.com

AARP Foundation

AARP Foundation strengthens financial resilience for and with older adults by empowering individuals and improving systems.

AARP empowers people to choose how they live as they age. There are 125 million Americans who are 50 or older, and people want their money, health and happiness to last as long as they do. We are a wise friend and fierce defender, focusing on the priorities of older Americans.

Purpose Prize® from AARP

Honoring extraordinary people 50-plus who put their purpose into action.

Purpose is a powerful force for good. The Purpose Prize from AARP honors extraordinary older Americans who put their purpose into action to support AARP’s mission of empowering people to choose how they live as they age. Winners receive $75,000 and a year of organizational support from AARP to grow the impact of their nonprofits. Examples of organizational support include data and evaluation, governance and succession planning, fundraising strategy, and prospectus development.

Nurses Educational Funds

Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. depends solely on donations to advance our only mission, to promote nursing leadership through annual scholarship support for professional nurses seeking masters and doctoral degrees in nursing education, practice, research, and administration.

NEF’s only purpose is to provide nursing scholarship assistance to make graduate level nursing education possible. NEF is one of the largest, national, private, professionally endorsed source of funds for advanced nursing study with over one hundred years of service to and for professional nursing. NEF is a non-profit organization with 501(c) status.

Terry Fulmer Scholarship

This 2022 scholarship honors Dr. Terry Fulmer, PhD, RN, FAAN, and focuses on long term care of the elderly in nursing homes. Dr. Fulmer’s life's work has been devoted to geriatric nursing education, mentoring, research, and policy development. Among her many accomplishments, she is nationally and internationally recognized as a leading expert in geriatrics and is also known for the conceptualization and development of the national NICHE program and research on the topic of elder abuse and neglect, work that has been funded by the National Institute on Aging and the National Institute of Nursing Research. In 2021, Dr. Fulmer was named a Living Legend by the American Academy of Nursing. This scholarship was initiated in December of 2021 by Dr. Mathy Mezey, EdD, RN, FAAN, an NEF Board member, and a noted international geriatric expert.

Nurses Educational Funds

Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. depends solely on donations to advance our only mission, to promote nursing leadership through annual scholarship support for professional nurses seeking masters and doctoral degrees in nursing education, practice, research, and administration.

NEF’s only purpose is to provide nursing scholarship assistance to make graduate level nursing education possible. NEF is one of the largest, national, private, professionally endorsed source of funds for advanced nursing study with over one hundred years of service to and for professional nursing. NEF is a non-profit organization with 501(c) status.

Mathy Mezey Scholarship

In 2013, the John A. Hartford Foundation, Inc. created a permanent NEF Scholarship for $50,000 in honor of Mathy Mezey, EdD, RN, FAAN, a noted international geriatric expert. Funds from this scholarship will be used to award nurses engaged in graduate geriatric nursing programs.