Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Connecticut

Charity League of MHC Scholarship

This Scholarship has an outside committee and is not affiliated with the Community Foundation.

• Must submit a recommendation form filled out by his/her guidance counselor.
• $1,000

Barry and Elaine Nocks Scholarship

Barry and Elaine Nocks established this scholarship fund to provide educational scholarships to first generation college students who reside in Greenville County, SC.

Amount

• Award amount and number of awards are determined annually based on the Community Foundation of Greenville’s Spending Policy for Endowment Funds.
• Scholarship funds are paid to an approved educational institution in the name of the student.
• Scholarship funds are awarded for one academic year and are not subject to automatic renewal.
• Prior recipients may apply for subsequent awards not to exceed four academic years.

The Mary Elizabeth Martin Scholarship Trust, established in 1961, provides financial support for students pursuing higher education in the U.S. Managed by US Bank and the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, this private foundation awards scholarships ranging from $500 to $3,000 annually. Eligible recipients include organizations exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, ensuring that funds are allocated for charitable and educational purposes.

Charles Black Construction Company, Inc. Scholarship

The Charles Black Scholarship Fund award identifies and recognizes high school seniors at various high schools in northeast Georgia who have achieved excellence in school and community life. The scholarship fund was created by the Charles Black Construction Company in 2002 as a way to show appreciation for past business relationships by giving back to the community. The scholarship was formally known as the Northeast Georgia School Superintendent’s Scholarship. The resulting scholarships recognize today’s graduating seniors, inspire undergraduate students, and will impact the quality of life in our communities for generations to come.

This scholarship is a one-time award, and recipient school systems and award amounts are determined each year by the Charles Black Construction Company. In 2026, scholarships will be awarded to graduating seniors who plan to attend an accredited college, university, or technical school.

The 2026 scholarships will be 41, $1,000 awards available to graduating seniors at: Apalachee High School, Banks County High School, Barrow Arts and Sciences Academy, Commerce City, Elbert County High School, Franklin County High School, Gilmer County High School, Hart County High School, Lanier Christian Academy, Lumpkin County High School, Madison County High School, Newton County High Schools (Alcovy, Eastside and Newton), Rabun County High School, Towns County High School, Union County High School, White County High School, and Winder-Barrow High School.

Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation

Since 1969, the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation (NCCF) has been privileged to serve as the financial steward of the more than 300 philanthropic funds entrusted to us by our generous and devoted community of Northwest CT donors and fundholders.

Our goal has always been to nurture and enhance the value of these philanthropic assets over the long term—as markets allow from year-to-year—by seeking the highest possible inflation-adjusted returns directed by an asset-allocation policy that is overseen by our Board of Directors and operating at all times within a prudent level of risk as determined by the ongoing vigilance of our Investment Committee, which reports to the Board.

Russel Anderson, Carmen Brooks Anderson, and Henry Vail Brooks Scholarship

The Russel Anderson, Carmen Brooks Anderson, and Henry Vail Brooks Scholarship is a scholarship grant for Torrington High School graduating seniors and first-year college students who received this scholarship as a high school senior.

About RRCF

Who We Are

Since 1999 we have been fostering philanthropy in South and East King County and acting as a connector around people, place and purpose. Our mission is to ignite the power of philanthropy – by connecting people, ideas and resources – to support and engage our community.

We partner with individual philanthropists and non-profit organizations to provide solutions to today’s challenges, so that together we can work toward our vision of a vibrant, equitable region where communities flourish and everyone thrives.

Scholarships

Helping to educate the next generation

The Renton Regional Community Foundation manages a number of scholarship funds and strongly supports your dream to pursue a post-secondary education. In 2025 we awarded $117,950 to 27 students. 

In 2026, 22 scholarships are provided due to the generosity of Renton Regional Community Foundation fund holders.

This scholarship was established in 2018 for the purpose of furthering the education and overall development of a student who has lost a parent prior to graduating high school.

Brandon Wade Minier Memorial Scholarship

The Brandon Wade Minier Memorial Scholarship was established in 2012 to celebrate the life of Brandon Wade Minier. He was a young man of extraordinary talent and personality, who tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident on April 26, 2009.

Brandon’s future was full of promise and success due in great part to his training as a journeyman electrician and his position as an apprentice instructor with the joint apprenticeship and training committee of Local Union #305 IBEW and the Fort Wayne Division, Central Indiana, Chapter NECA (referred to in short as the Fort Wayne Electrical JATC).

This scholarship may be used towards tuition, books, supplies, or any other school related expense in relation to the awarded individuals educational needs.

This scholarship is available to an individual from Whitley County, who is continuing their education in a trade and vocational school, such as but not limited to electrical, plumbing, mechanical, beauty, and culinary arts school.

Scholarships

Grand Haven Area Community Foundation scholarships are awarded competitively based on criteria set by donors. These criteria could include financial need, the school the applicant is attending, academic achievement, as well as personal or career goals. The Community Foundation has a rigorous internal selection process for each scholarship decision, and each applicant is reviewed in depth, and considered thoroughly.

Our scholarship program is simple. You are able to apply once for all foundation scholarships you may be eligible for. Once your application is submitted, you will be eligible for all those for which you meet the requirement.

Coopersville Endowed Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund opened in 2000 and was formerly a student loan program. It now offers scholarship opportunities to students who wish to continue their education beyond high school.

The Montana Circle K - Key Club Renewal Scholarship Program, supported by the Kiwanis Foundation of Montana, recognizes and aids Circle K members who have previously earned a scholarship and excelled academically in college. This program emphasizes the importance of leadership, community service, and continued academic achievement, providing essential financial assistance to deserving students who contribute positively to their communities.

Good Sports is a national non-profit organization dedicated to donating new sports equipment, footwear, and apparel to schools and youth organizations across the U.S. This program allows approved organizations to receive up to eight donations over two years. Eligibility includes serving youth aged 3-18 in high poverty areas and ensuring access to physical activity. Organizations must also adhere to specific requirements, including shipping fees and evaluations after each donation.

CCF: Women’s Giving Circle Grants

The Women’s Giving Circle at Connecticut Community Foundation was formed in 2017 to bring women together to learn about issues affecting women and girls in Greater Waterbury and the Litchfield Hills, to join their dollars, and to make grants that will improve lives. When it is time to make grants, Circle members decide together the issues they want to support, such as employment, education, pay equity, housing, parenting or women’s health. Circle members review grant applications and make funding decisions together. The Women’s Giving Circle is open to anyone who cares about women and girls in Greater Waterbury and the Litchfield Hills.

Grant proposals are accepted once annually.

What is the average grant amount?

The average amount is between $5,000 and $15,000. Please review the grant guidelines for the funding area you plan to apply to for an average amount. Grants for larger amounts can be considered. However, for those, please contact our staff to discuss the project in advance of submission.

In 2025, the Community Foundation of Madison & Jefferson County awarded over $233,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors of the county’s public and private high schools. Nearly 50 different students earned money toward their college costs. Scholarships are available for a variety of applicants. Some are specific to schools, majors, need, or interests.

CFMJC scholarships may be used for tuition and related expenses like fees and required equipment at accredited colleges and universities. Room and board are not covered.

Terry & Wanda Wood Memorial Scholarship

Criteria evaluated:

• Work ethic and ambition, desire to pursue a trade, and financial need

Required materials: 

• Essay of up to 250 words describing the applicant’s career path plans, 
• 2 letters of recommendation from teachers and/or counselors, and 3) FAFSA SAI PDF upload

Scholarship amount:

• $7,500 | 1 scholarship

The NATA Masters Student Grant Program, facilitated by the NATA Foundation, supports innovative research projects by master's students in athletic training. With a funding limit of $1,000 for one year, this program emphasizes ethical research practices and collaboration with faculty mentors. Eligible applicants must be current master's students and members of NATA. The foundation aims to enhance the athletic training profession through research and education, fostering growth and development in healthcare.

Jerry Walker Memorial Scholarship

The Jerry Walker Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in Jerry’s honor, to partner with Whitley County young people whom Jerry cared deeply about. Jerry served on The Center’s Board of Directors for more than 6 years, and was a passionate volunteer, donor, and advocate for helping young people find hope and equipping them to thrive in life.

This scholarship is available to any person that has have been an active After-School SERVE participant for 2 or more semesters and will be attending any post-secondary schooling.

This Scholarship is due March 1st of each year.

The NATA Doctoral Student Grants Program, offered by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association Foundation, provides financial support for innovative research projects in athletic training. Each year, multiple awards of up to $2,500 are available, with funding limited to direct costs over a maximum of one year. This initiative aims to enhance the profession through research, benefiting athletic trainers and the broader physically active community.

The Innovations in Graduate Education (IGE) Program, funded by the National Science Foundation, aims to transform STEM graduate education through innovative training approaches. It encourages proposals that support skill development for STEM careers and research on effective educational systems. The program offers funding for projects that pilot and validate novel educational models, promoting broad participation and collaboration with various sectors. Awards range from $300,000 to $1,000,000, depending on the track and project duration.

The Armstrong Foundation, established in 1949, focuses on funding educational initiatives that promote the significance of the U.S. Constitution. To be eligible, organizations must provide an IRS determination letter confirming their 501(c)(3) status. This foundation aims to enhance public understanding and appreciation of constitutional values through various educational mediums.

The JSF Scholarships aim to empower economically disadvantaged students by providing financial assistance for their education. This initiative addresses barriers to education and employment, enabling students to achieve academic success and meaningful careers. The Foundation supports various scholarship programs, partnering with schools and universities, and focusing on areas such as financial need and mentorship. By fostering educational opportunities, the JSF Scholarships contribute significantly to community development and individual empowerment.

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

Matt Davidson Memorial Scholarship Fund

Provides scholarships to up to two eligible applicants, one male and one female in the amount of $500.00 each. 

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

Evergreen Award of Marquette County Scholarship Fund

Provides financial assistance to individuals residing in Marquette County who meet the following criteria: have not had the opportunity to continue their formal education, represent life-long learning interests, have an established history of service/commitment to others in the community, and demonstrate financial need for educational support. 

Distribution Process

• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

Gwinn Community Schools Alunni Scholarship

Be a graduating senior of Gwinn Area Community Schools pursuing higher education and are residents of the Gwinn Area School District and hold at least a 3.0 GPA.

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

Barbara Hammerberg Memorial Scholarship Fund

Provides scholarships to students in Marquette and Delta Counties for post-secondary education. 

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

Friedman Family Scholarship

The Friedman Family Scholarship was established in 1998. The award is available to graduating seniors in Taos and western Colfax counties for students pursuing advancement of higher education. The scholarship is available to those applying to 4 year colleges and universities as well as 2 year vocational/trade schools. The award is up to $ 8,000.00 paid out at $2,000 annually for up to four years if a 3.0 GPA is maintained.

The Abbey Mural Prize, established in 1932, supports the creation and restoration of public murals across the United States. This prestigious award, administered by the National Academy of Design since 1940, emphasizes projects that enhance community engagement and social activism through art. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $40,000, with a total annual funding cap of $125,000. Eligible applicants include artists, architects, and nonprofit organizations committed to impactful mural projects.

The Historically Black Colleges and Universities - Undergraduate Program (HBCU-UP) aims to enhance STEM undergraduate education and research at HBCUs. It offers various funding opportunities, including Research Initiation Awards, Targeted Infusion Projects, Implementation Projects, and Broadening Participation Research Centers, to support innovative educational goals and broaden participation in STEM fields. Proposals are due on various dates, ensuring multiple opportunities for institutions to engage with this vital funding.

The FY 2025 EDA Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance Programs aim to enhance economic growth and resilience in distressed communities. EDA invites ongoing applications for funding, focusing on innovative approaches that leverage regional strengths. The updated NOFO emphasizes timely reviews and outlines submission procedures for core programs under the Public Works and Economic Development Act. Grantees are encouraged to develop unique initiatives that foster lasting economic prosperity.

The NDEP STEM Open NFO invites innovative proposals for research and implementation of effective STEM education and outreach programs. This continuously open announcement from the Department of Defense encourages submissions that align with key initiatives, including support for community colleges and strategic partnerships. As funding becomes available, amendments detailing specific topics and submission guidelines will be released. Applicants must submit white papers to express interest in full applications for potential funding consideration.