Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Colorado

The Martin, Lucas Scholarship, provided by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers a $1,000 award to a graduating senior male from Beatrice High School. Eligible students must have participated in soccer during their junior and senior years and demonstrate a strong commitment to teamwork. One reference letter must come from the head boys soccer coach, and financial need will be considered. The Foundation aims to support students seeking higher education.

The Elizabeth Anne Ala Scholarship, established by Communities Foundation of Texas, offers a $2,000 scholarship to a graduating senior from any Garland ISD high school who has excelled in a bilingual studies/ESL program. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 overall and a 3.5 in bilingual/ESL classes, and must be U.S. citizens or documented residents. This initiative aims to support students in pursuing higher education.

The National Dance Project (NDP) Travel Fund offers financial support to U.S.-based presenters, curatorial staff, and residency directors, as well as current NDP artist grantees. This fund facilitates in-person engagements to assess the feasibility of presenting NDP-funded projects. Established over 30 years ago, NDP has invested more than $38.5 million in dance initiatives, promoting the creation and touring of new works while fostering relationships within the arts community.

The Catherine Aileen Smith-Jones Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports graduating high school seniors who are members of Holy Family Catholic Church and plan to attend an accredited four-year college or university in the United States. This scholarship honors Cathy Smith-Jones, who valued community, resilience, and the gift of life, leaving a lasting legacy through her organ donations and commitment to helping others.

The Terry Hessong Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Tulsa Community Foundation, supports students graduating from high school in Nowata County, Oklahoma. Established in 1998, the Tulsa Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing communities through charitable initiatives. This scholarship exemplifies their commitment to investing in local education and empowering the next generation. By providing financial assistance, the foundation aims to foster academic achievement and enrich the lives of students in the region.

The M. Alton French Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation in 1983, offers renewable scholarships to residents of Lincolnville, Camden, Hope, Appleton, Rockport, Northport, and Islesboro pursuing post-secondary education. Awards are based on financial need, academic performance, and leadership potential. New applicants must participate in an interview in June. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering community development in Maine.

The Swans Island Education Achievement Trust Fund, established in 1997 by the Maine Community Foundation, offers scholarship support to non-traditional residents of Swans Island pursuing further education beyond high school. This fund aims to assist those seeking college, vocational, or technical training, focusing on individual achievement, community service, and financial need. Scholarships may be renewable for up to four years, promoting educational advancement and community growth.

The Helene Stoller Scholarship, established in September 2023 by Dr. Helene Stoller, aims to support students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math. This merit and need-based scholarship targets those with strong financial needs and academic excellence. Managed by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, it covers various educational expenses, ensuring equitable access regardless of race, gender, or background. Applications are reviewed by a dedicated committee to select deserving recipients.

The Foster Care Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, offers a $1,000 grant to graduating high school seniors or undergraduate students who have been in foster care and have not been adopted. Applicants must be enrolling in an accredited two-year, four-year, or vocational school and are required to submit a transcript, personal essay, and letter of recommendation. This initiative aims to support the educational pursuits of youths from challenging backgrounds.

The James Henry Smith & Gladys Manning Smith Scholarship Fund aims to support students with financial need and strong character, helping them achieve a college education. This renewable scholarship offers annual funding, covering tuition, fees, housing, and books, with awards between $6,000 and $7,000. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors from Muscogee County, Georgia, maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and demonstrate community service. The scholarship reflects the Smiths' commitment to service and education.

The Erin Wilson McMahon Memorial Scholarship, offered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students from Bexar County pursuing higher education outside Texas. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and current college students seeking a Bachelor's or technical degree. The scholarship aims to foster educational growth and community development. With awards limited to one student, recipients can utilize funds for tuition, fees, and other educational expenses, promoting academic achievement and leadership.

The Quailwood Scholarship Fund, established by Jonathan Schor, aims to enhance public services and the quality of life in Red Rock, New York. Funded by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, it provides grants for conservation, education, and community support. The advisory board, comprising local leaders and organizations, ensures that the fund meets the long-term needs of the community. The initiative fosters a strong sense of community and encourages diverse participation among residents, promoting economic mobility and a high quality of life.

The Cushing's Disease or Cushing's Syndrome Fund, operated by the HealthWell Foundation, provides vital financial assistance to underinsured patients facing high medical costs associated with these conditions. The fund covers co-payments, insurance premiums, and necessary treatments, ensuring that patients receive the care they need without financial burden. With an average grant utilization of $3,000 over twelve months, this fund aims to alleviate the challenges of treatment accessibility, supporting both physical and mental health for those affected.

The Packaging Innovation Program by the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) seeks innovative research proposals to develop sustainable packaging alternatives for U.S. specialty crops. With increasing restrictions on single-use plastics, this initiative aims to enhance global market access for U.S. producers. Collaborating with Clemson University and the Foundation for Fresh Produce, the program supports three research tracks, focusing on applied R&D, technology acceleration, and pilot-scale manufacturing projects to advance eco-friendly packaging solutions.

The Kellly Marie Mcquate Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors from Rock Island or Scott County, IL, who have lost a parent. This need-based scholarship awards up to $500 and focuses on financial need as the primary criterion. Applicants must plan to enroll full-time in college, with merit evaluated through school and community activities. This scholarship represents a significant opportunity for eligible students to pursue their educational goals.

The William Stanley Scholarship Fund, established in 1991 by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, assists Berkshire County residents seeking to attend two- or four-year colleges. Named after inventor William Stanley, the fund honors his legacy in pioneering alternating current technology. The foundation, founded in 1987, focuses on strengthening communities through philanthropy, with a vision of enhancing economic mobility and quality of life for all residents.

Community Foundation for Northern Virginia

Founded in 1978, the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia is a tax-exempt trusted public charity that advances equity through philanthropy and community leadership. Its work is guided by a strategic plan that advances four key priorities for the region:

• Social and Economic Mobility
• Opportunities for All
• Inclusive Systems of Economic Growth
• Community Resilience

Leslie Richardson Memorial Swan & Sparrow Scholarship Fund

The Leslie Richardson Memorial Swan & Sparrow Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to benefit students studying musical performance, jazz studies or choral conducting at a historically or predominantly black college or university (HBCU).

The Ruth and Bill Burton Memorial Scholarship, established by Shellie B. Evans, honors her parents' legacy of community service and education. This scholarship supports Abilene ISD seniors and alumni with a minimum GPA of 3.2. Awards range from $500 to over $5,000, providing financial assistance to those pursuing higher education or vocational training in the U.S. Payments are made directly to institutions in August and January, promoting educational advancement for deserving students.

The Ernest B. and Marie H. Graham Scholarship, offered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports current high school seniors pursuing studies in Mathematics or STEM fields. This renewable scholarship, available to students from select San Antonio school districts, covers tuition and fees for up to three years. Applicants must maintain a C average and enroll full-time in an accredited U.S. institution. This initiative aims to empower the next generation of innovators and leaders in STEM.

The Emo Jean Cottrell Scholarship Fund, administered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing various degrees, including Associate, Bachelor's, and vocational certificates. Open to high school seniors, current college students, and adult learners in the USA, it encourages academic excellence with a minimum GPA requirement of 2.5. This renewable scholarship, available for up to three years, aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster community growth, reflecting the foundation's commitment to improving lives in San Antonio.

The Blepharitis Fund, managed by the HealthWell Foundation, aims to alleviate financial barriers for underinsured patients suffering from blepharitis, an inflammatory condition of the eyelids. This program assists with prescription drug copays and insurance premiums, covering up to $3,500 annually for treatments. With a mission to ensure no patient is deprived of necessary healthcare due to financial constraints, the HealthWell Foundation has provided over $1.2 billion in grants, supporting more than 1.1 million patients since its inception.

The Shanna Stoffer Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, aims to support Ashland County residents pursuing degrees in Education. Eligible applicants include graduating high school seniors, continuing college students, and non-traditional students with a minimum GPA of 2.5. This scholarship provides financial assistance to those enrolled or planning to enroll in two or four-year colleges or graduate programs, fostering educational advancement in the community.

Native Forward awards are allocated based on the financial aid information provided by the institution’s Financial Aid Office. Awards can vary, ranging from $100 to $30,000 per academic year.

Native Forward Scholars Fund members of federally and state-recognized Tribes as well as first and second-generation descendants. However, Native Forward Scholars Fund scholarship opportunities have different Tribal eligibility requirements and can be determined by submitting a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

KuuKuupa In Memoriam Endowed Fund

“In honor of William Daniel Ray and all our loved ones who we have lost.”

Willie had a huge heart and unconditionally loved his family – those he was given and those he chose. No matter how little he had, he was always willing to lend a hand to family and even a stranger in need. To honor him and the care and compassion he had for those around him, his family started the Kuukuupa Fund. To celebrate and honor Willie’s spirit and the person he was, his family hopes the Kuukuupa Fund can be a way for others to honor loved ones who have journeyed home by supporting Native students in their educational pursuits to achieve their dreams.

The KuuKuupa In Memoriam Endowed Fund was established to assist Native students who are facing financial hardships and challenges by providing them with a one-time relief award. The fund provides emergency support scholarships directly to students in need of assistance for emergency situations that includes, but is not limited to, food insecurity, emergency housing and utility costs, educational technology or technology-related resources, or other difficult choices that will benefit the student and their families in the hopes that some of those needs can be met.

The Dupuytren’s Disease Fund, managed by the HealthWell Foundation, aims to reduce financial barriers for underinsured patients suffering from Dupuytren's Disease. This fund provides assistance for prescription drug copays and insurance premiums related to treatment. With an average grant utilization of $1,650 over a 12-month period, the fund ensures that essential medications and therapies are affordable. HealthWell Foundation, a private non-profit, has helped over 1.1 million patients since 2004, demonstrating its commitment to healthcare access.

The AAUW Community Action Grants provide up to $75,000 to support nonprofits and educational institutions that empower girls in grades K–12 to succeed in STEM fields. By fostering hands-on learning, mentorship, and family involvement, these grants aim to build confidence and skills among girls, especially those from underrepresented communities. AAUW believes that immersive STEM environments and relatable role models can inspire lasting interest and help close the gender gap in leadership and careers.

The Quad Cities Mexican American Organization Scholarship, administered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, offers up to $1,000 to students of Hispanic descent pursuing post-secondary education. Applicants must maintain a GPA of at least 2.0 and can apply for renewal. This scholarship aims to support educational advancement in the Quad Cities region, reflecting a commitment to fostering academic success among underrepresented communities.

The Combating Social Isolation of Older Adults Grant, provided by the Sephardic Home for the Aged Foundation, aims to combat elder abuse and neglect exacerbated by social isolation. This initiative recognizes that isolation can lead to severe mental and physical health issues among older adults. It promotes trauma-informed care and mental health services to help these individuals reconnect socially. Additionally, the Foundation supports intergenerational programming as a vital strategy to foster community connections and reduce isolation among seniors.