Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Delaware

The Eleanor & Henry Jansen Foundation, established in 1998, supports nonprofit organizations in Whatcom County, focusing on youth programs. The foundation encourages proposals that directly impact the community and emphasizes the importance of a substantial volunteer base. Special consideration is given to projects that were significant to Eleanor and Henry Jansen. Applicants are encouraged to seek matching funds from multiple sources, with priority given to youth-serving initiatives.

The Sephardic Home For The Aged Foundation offers grants focused on end-of-life care and preventing elder neglect. They encourage nonprofits with a 501(c)3 status, operational for at least two years, to apply for funding. The foundation prioritizes innovative programs that enhance the quality of life for older adults through education, advocacy, and community outreach. Interested organizations should submit a Letter of Inquiry before applying for the grant.

The Siebenthal and Block Scholarship Program, administered by Scholarship America, supports students from Peoria Manual High School pursuing higher education. This initiative aims to eliminate financial barriers and promote access to college or vocational training. By fostering partnerships and providing vital resources, the program enhances educational opportunities for underrepresented students, ensuring they can achieve their academic goals and minimize debt. Through its commitment, Scholarship America continues to impact lives significantly.

The AHRQ Small Research Projects (R03) program supports short-term research endeavors in primary care, enabling innovative pilot studies, secondary data analysis, and the development of research methodologies. This initiative encourages researchers to explore new technologies and approaches within limited resource frameworks, fostering advancements in healthcare quality and efficiency. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization, emphasizing the importance of timely submission.

The Families of Freedom Scholarship Fund, established by Scholarship America Inc., provides need-based scholarships for postsecondary education to dependents of 9/11 victims. This initiative aims to alleviate financial barriers and supports students at various accredited institutions across the U.S. By offering financial assistance for up to four years, the fund promotes educational access and success for those affected by tragedy, ensuring that eligible recipients can pursue their academic aspirations without the burden of excessive debt.

The Thomas L. McKenzie Research Award, offered by SHAPE America, supports emerging researchers in physical education and public health. With a funding pool exceeding $600,000 since 1997, it provides annual awards of up to $2,000 to graduate students and early career professionals (within 4 years of graduation) who are members of SHAPE America. The focus is on behavioral research related to physical activity, particularly in natural environments, contributing to disease prevention and promoting overall health.

The Hanover Insurance Community and AVID Scholarship Program, administered by Scholarship America, aims to support high school seniors from specific areas in Massachusetts and Michigan who plan to pursue higher education. By providing scholarships, this initiative seeks to eliminate financial barriers and promote educational success for underrepresented students. With a focus on equity and accessibility, the program encourages eligible students, particularly those in the AVID program, to further their academic aspirations.

The SHAPE America: Research Fellow Program recognizes dedicated members for their significant contributions to health and physical education scholarship. Nominees must demonstrate excellence through impactful research, including a minimum of 10 peer-reviewed articles and participation in SHAPE America conventions. This prestigious designation promotes ongoing scholarship and encourages engagement within the diverse community of health and physical educators, enhancing professional practice and advancing the mission of SHAPE America.

The Festa Italiana Reverend Father Augustine Henry Giusani Humanitarian Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors and college students from specific Connecticut towns majoring in social sciences. Preference is given to students of Italian descent and those affiliated with Italian organizations. This scholarship aims to promote academic excellence and cultural heritage, fostering future leaders committed to societal improvement.

Armstrong County Community Foundation (The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania)

In 1997 Merchants National Bank, an Armstrong County community bank, marked its 100th anniversary. The centennial celebration included a unique expression of gratitude to the community in the form of $100,000 to be used as a seed fund to initiate a community foundation for Armstrong County. The bank challenged the community to keep the principal balance of the endowed funds intact and spend only a portion of the interest earnings to ensure a lasting legacy.

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Judy L. (Beveridge) Creel Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is established to honor the memory of Gary and Judy (Beveridge) Creel of East Franklin Township, Armstrong County.

Gary, the son of Clarence and Hally (Sharpe) Creel, was employed in the surface coal stripping industry and then owned and operated a retail tire sales business until his retirement. At the time of his passing, Gary was in the process of getting a patent approved for a canine orthopedic support device.

Judy, the daughter of Floyd "Ernie" and Dorothy (Reesman) Beveridge, was employed in the banking industry. In retirement, Judy designed tombstones/grave markers for both humans and pets. Judy also was a published author having written three books.

Gary and Judy met in high school and shared 55 years of marriage. Life was busy with work, family, and church responsibilities, but both found time to be there for others in their moment of need. Whether it was offering their time, professional skills or personal resources, their compassion was shared authentically and altruistically.

It is the desire of children, Marci and Ryan, to establish this scholarship to continue their parents' legacy of ordinary people doing what they could to help others, simply because it was the right thing to do. Matthew 6:3-4; James 2:15-17

The Gusto Impact Awards, launched by Gusto, honor small businesses making significant contributions to their communities. With $325,000 in prizes across five regions, winners will receive advertising and cash rewards to enhance their impact. Eligible candidates are small businesses in the U.S. with under 75 employees and less than $7 million in revenue. This initiative celebrates local heroes, from baristas to nonprofits, showcasing the vital role of small enterprises in driving community progress.

The Hanson Family Educational Foundation Scholarship, administered by the McPherson County Community Foundation, offers a $1,500 award to graduating seniors pursuing education at a public institution. Priority is given to McPherson County residents and those planning to attend Emporia State University. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to enhancing community welfare through educational support and philanthropic engagement.

The Excellence in Community Practice Award, presented by the Society for Vascular Surgery, honors members demonstrating exceptional leadership in their communities as practicing vascular surgeons. This prestigious award recognizes individuals for their significant contributions to patient care and community health, showcasing their commitment to advancing vascular surgery. Nominees must have a minimum of 20 years of experience and be SVS members for at least 5 years, highlighting their dedication to the field.

The Elaine M. Hothem Memorial Scholarship, established by friends and family in 2023, honors the legacy of Elaine Hothem, a passionate advocate for education and literature. Administered by The Dayton Foundation, this scholarship supports graduating high school seniors and current college students from Centerville or Washington Township, Ohio, who plan to major in history, education, or library science. Recipients are expected to have a history of community involvement and extracurricular participation.

The First Christian Church Educational Scholarship, provided by the McPherson County Community Foundation, supports members and friends of the First Christian Church of McPherson or Galva who are pursuing higher education. The scholarship amount varies based on the number of applicants each year, ensuring that community members can access educational opportunities that align with their goals. This initiative reflects a commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering educational growth within the community.

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.

Alger Regional Community FoundationThe Alger Regional Community Foundation (ARCF) is a locally based 501(C)(3) nonprofit corporation dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Alger County through grants and scholarships.

ARCF is a unique institution. It is a permanent, yet flexible, collection of endowment funds contributed by people from all walks of life who want to make a difference in our community.Native American Education AwardGiven to a Native American graduate, applicants must have participated in Native Cultural/Academic activities, projects, or programs while attending MHS, be a participant in community service activities, and must have a minimum 2.0 overall GPA.

The George S. Souten Performing Arts Scholarship, offered by the Four County Community Foundation, supports high school seniors from Armada, Capac, Imlay City, and Romeo who plan to major or minor in performing arts. Applicants must demonstrate a strong background in the arts and submit an essay. Awardees will be recognized during the Foundation's Scholarship Celebration in May and at their respective high school awards events.

The Freda B. Kirby Scholarship, established by The Dayton Foundation, provides financial support for graduating high school students from the Miami Valley to pursue higher education at community colleges or universities. This renewable scholarship emphasizes the importance of academic achievement, requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA. The Dayton Foundation, a leading philanthropic organization since 1921, is dedicated to enhancing the community's social and economic well-being through strategic grantmaking and support for education, workforce development, and other vital initiatives.

Alger Regional Community FoundationThe Alger Regional Community Foundation (ARCF) is a locally based 501(C)(3) nonprofit corporation dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Alger County through grants and scholarships.

ARCF is a unique institution. It is a permanent, yet flexible, collection of endowment funds contributed by people from all walks of life who want to make a difference in our community.Simonen ScholarshipThe Paul & Alice Simonen Scholarship is offered to any Alger County resident planning to pursue post-secondary education at a college, university, vocational, or technical institute.

Preference will be given to an individual with future potential as evidenced by an exceptional record of achievement in school, community, and/or employment. Examples of achievement may include, but are not limited to, areas such as academics, fine arts, athletics, technology, volunteerism, service clubs, work/military experience.

Alger Regional Community FoundationThe Alger Regional Community Foundation (ARCF) is a locally based 501(C)(3) nonprofit corporation dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Alger County through grants and scholarships.ARCF is a unique institution. It is a permanent, yet flexible, collection of endowment funds contributed by people from all walks of life who want to make a difference in our community.Thelma N. Cotey ScholarshipApplicants must be planning to pursue further education in the areas of medicine, business, or forestry. 

Stark Community FoundationStark 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. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.The Wayne D. Ackerman Scholarship FundThe Wayne D. Ackerman Scholarship Fund assists seniors from Stark County high schools who will graduate in May/June. Applicants must be accepted as full-time students at a four-year college or university, have a GPA of at least 3.0, and have demonstrated outstanding involvement in academics and extracurriculars.Renewable Scholarship: No

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 John and Charlotte Michael Family Memorial Scholarship, established in 1995 by The Dayton Foundation, honors the legacy of the Michael family by providing scholarships to students from Germantown, Farmersville, and Jefferson Township. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to philanthropy, community development, and educational support, ensuring that deserving students have access to opportunities that foster their academic and personal growth.

The Peace Officers and Firefighters Scholarship, administered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports students pursuing education at any accredited institution in the U.S. Eligible applicants are graduating seniors or graduates from public, private high schools, or homeschoolers residing in ETCF counties. While financial need is not a consideration, applicants must demonstrate a commitment to education. This scholarship reflects the foundation's belief in empowering youth through educational opportunities.

The Jonathan Dewberry Porter Memorial Scholarship, established by the family of Jonathan Porter, a dedicated veteran and Central State University Upward Bound graduate, supports graduating seniors from the program. This scholarship aims to assist students who demonstrate financial need and have a minimum GPA of 2.0, helping them pursue further education at colleges or technical schools, thereby continuing Jonathan's legacy of aiding others in achieving their dreams.

The Cpt. Wm. Barron Chapter Texas Society of the Sons of American Revolution Scholarship, managed by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors from select East Texas counties pursuing higher education in any field. The scholarship does not consider financial need and provides support for one year. Applicants must demonstrate their understanding of the American Revolutionary War through an essay, showcasing their appreciation of this pivotal period in history.