Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Delaware

The Graduate Fellowships for STEM Diversity (GFSD) aims to increase the number of American citizens with graduate degrees in STEM fields, focusing on a diverse applicant pool. Founded in 1989, GFSD supports various disciplines, including Astronomy, Biomedical Engineering, and Physics, through partnerships with universities and employers. Each fellowship can last from two to six years, with an annual fee of $27,000, covering both expenses for fellows and operational costs for GFSD. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and meet specific academic requirements.

The A. Allen Graffham Paleontology Research Grant, administered by the Association of Applied Paleontological Sciences, provides $1000 annually to support researchers publishing on specimens collected by AAPS members. Established in honor of A. Allen Graffham, a pioneering figure in paleontology, this grant fosters collaboration and acknowledges contributions to the field. Eligible applicants must be affiliated with AAPS members and prioritize proper acknowledgment of fossil sources in their research.

The Whitehall Foundation offers research grants to support innovative and scientifically meritorious projects in neurobiology, focusing on sensory and motor functions in both invertebrates and vertebrates. Grants are aimed at independent investigators at accredited institutions in the U.S., with a maximum duration of three years, and a competitive renewal option available. Emphasis is placed on aiding early-career scientists and those transitioning into new research areas, fostering a diverse scientific community.

The Winifred Goldring Award, presented by the Association for Women Geoscientists, offers a $2000 cash prize and membership in the Paleontological Society to an outstanding female student in paleontology. Named after the pioneering woman paleontologist Winifred Goldring, the award recognizes students exhibiting exceptional motivation and professional potential. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in graduate studies and provide proof of student status. This award aims to support women's contributions to the geosciences.

The West-Gray Scholarship Fund, established in 2014, supports undergraduate and graduate students in applied geology who demonstrate academic excellence and are members of the Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists. This fund aids students conducting field studies in environmental and engineering geology particularly in the eastern United States, fostering future professionals in the field.

The Marliave Scholarship Fund, established in honor of Elmer C. Marliave and his family, supports students in Engineering Geology and Geological Engineering. This scholarship recognizes outstanding academic achievement and potential contributions to the profession. Awarded by the AEG Foundation, recipients are designated as "Marliave Scholars" based on their qualifications and involvement in professional societies. The program aims to foster excellence and commitment within the field, promoting future leaders in geoscience.

The David H. Smith Conservation Research Fellowship aims to enhance the skills of early-career conservation scientists through two years of applied research and mentorship. It supports global scientists at U.S. institutions, focusing on pressing conservation issues, and encourages collaboration with practitioners. The fellowship emphasizes cutting-edge research, leadership development, and practical applications in conservation biology, making it an excellent opportunity for those looking to bridge science and policy.

The Kevin Flanagan Student Travel Award offers up to $800 for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing diving science to attend AAUS scientific meetings. This competitive, merit-based award honors Kevin Flanagan's legacy in scientific diving and support for AAUS. Established in collaboration with his family, it aims to encourage the development of safe and effective scientific divers through education and research, while promoting standards in scientific diving practices.

The Career Women’s Network Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, empowers non-traditional female students aged 25 and older to pursue higher education. This scholarship promotes leadership and personal development for women in the community, offering varying amounts each year. Recipients may renew their awards for up to four years, contingent on meeting eligibility criteria. The fund honors Katherine Walters, who valued education and aimed to assist women in achieving their academic goals.

Timothy S.Y. Lam Foundation

The mission of the Timothy S.Y. Lam Foundation is to support research, education, and training within the hospitality industry by bestowing scholarships and grants to those seeking careers or advancement in the hospitality industry; funding education programs that promote the hospitality industry; and awarding research grants to those interested in blending academia with practical industry know-how. 

Primary Goals: To support the professional development and academic advancement of the hospitality industry by continuing to support the foundation’s current programs, promote recipients, maintain positive working relationships with associations, and provide support to underserved communities with individuals pursuing hospitality education, training, and job advancement. 

In 2024, TSYLF introduced new initiatives to support and empower underserved communities and underprivileged and underemployed individuals. We invite all hospitality associations, students, research teams, and professionals to explore how the Timothy S.Y. Lam Foundation can support your educational and professional endeavors in the field of hospitality. 

Research Grants

Grantmaking Focus

The foundation supports programs that are practical and directly benefit the hospitality industry. Of particular interest are efforts that apply rigorous academic research to solve practical hospitality issues. All grants are measured on the direct results of improved efficiency and efficacy for the hospitality industry. The Foundation emphasizes activities in the following areas and organizations that work in the following areas:

• Research programs that improve employment possibilities and career advancement for those entering or incumbents in the hospitality industry.
• Research programs that enhance efficiency in the hospitality industry.
• Articles or textbooks that contribute to the comprehensive body of knowledge and/or promote industry practices, standards, and ethics.
• Practical and applicable research projects with immediate benefit to the hospitality industry.

Grants are payable to the organization or institution and not to an individual.

Grant funding is dispersed in two payments. One payment will be made upon award approval and the second will be made once the research grant report has been submitted.

Research Grant funding should be used for the following:

• TSYLF funds should be used for research facility overhead and general maintenance.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable software, computer systems or programs to organize, track and store data.
• TSYLF funds can be used for tangible research items such printed documents, writing utensils, books, office supplies or related tools and materials needed to document research and practical observations.
• TSYLF will fund equipment or materials used for hands-on training such as cleaning, and sanitation supplies, safety items or other personal protection, furnishings found in hotels, restaurants or other hospitality related facilities being used to observe applicable productivity or conditions.
• TSYLF funds can be used to obtain proper permits for conducting research or staging a practical observation or production space.
• TSYLF funds can be used be used for creating resource material and related distribution costs to hospitality professionals, businesses and educators.
• TSYLF funds can be used for support materials or services for hosting focus groups, interviews or other activities related to the research topic.
• TSYLF funds should be used wisely for reasonable and cost-effective accommodations for staff, research team and subjects such as meals, travel or lodging.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable mileage or transportation fees for research subjects, team and special advisors.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable travel accommodations related to research topic data collection.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable compensation to the research team for their time in collecting, analyzing and organizing data related to the funded research topic.
• TSYLF funds can be used for reasonable compensation to the research subjects.
• TSYLF funds can be used for expenses related to community engagement.
• TSYLF funds can be used for fees related to attending a hospitality event that aligns with the funded research topic.

Pray4Gray Foundation

The Pray4Gray Foundation was created to honor Grayson Pope’s courageous journey following a traumatic brain injury sustained under circumstances beyond his control. Grayson’s resilience, optimism, and unwavering spirit continue to inspire all who know him.

As Grayson works toward recovery with a smile and a strong heart, our mission is to provide prayer, support, resources, and education to families of young people facing similar challenges. We aim to build a community rooted in hope, faith, and resilience—empowering youth and their families to navigate brain injury recovery with strength and purpose.

Grayson looks forward to giving back as others did for him—sharing his story and spirit to help others heal. Through our programs and services, we are committed to walking alongside families in crisis and helping young people thrive beyond adversity. 

Grant

If you or a loved one has been impacted by a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), we’re here for you.

Our foundation is dedicated to walking alongside families of young adults recovering from TBI by offering support, resources, prayer, and education. Whether you're navigating the early stages of recovery or continuing a long-term journey, you don’t have to do it alone.

We invite you to apply for assistance through our foundation. Support may include financial aid, educational materials, access to community resources, and spiritual encouragement tailored to your family’s needs.

Lois Roth Foundation

The Lois Roth Foundation honors the life and work of Lois Wersba Roth. Since 1987, it has sought to promote and encourage dialogue across national, linguistic and cultural boundaries, with an emphasis on the humanities, arts and social sciences. Foundation programs are conducted in collaboration with a range of partners and focused on three domains: Fulbright & Academic Collaborations, Cultural Diplomacy, and Literature & Translation.

Cultural Diplomacy

In recollection of Lois Roth’s efforts to promote cross‐cultural understanding and cooperation as a US Foreign Service Officer, the Roth Foundation partners with the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) (US State Department), to provide the department’s four awards honoring excellence in the field of cultural and educational diplomacy.

The types of qualities displayed by recipients of Roth Foundation cultural diplomacy awards include:

• Cross‐cultural sensitivity and understanding for all—regardless of age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin or disability—and the courage and intellectual integrity to bring alternate facts and opinions into open conversation
• Ingenuity and imagination in creating projects, programs and products to deepen the contact between foreign intellectuals, artists and professionals and their US counterparts
• Familiarity with global affairs and foreign languages, to deepen substantive discussion between US and foreign intellectuals, scholars and professionals
• Patience, wisdom and generosity in helping new colleagues, both international and US, develop their careers
• Special skill in promoting collaborations between US and foreign institutions and high‐quality exchange opportunities with the civil sector.

Lois Roth Award For Cultural Diplomacy

The Lois Roth Award is presented every year to a Foreign Service Officer who has made significant contributions to the field of US cultural and educational diplomacy. It honors those who exhibit cross-cultural sensitivity in all aspects of their work and show patience, wisdom and generosity in helping new colleagues—international and American—to pursue and develop their skills and careers. Displaying familiarity with different areas of the world, global affairs and foreign languages, winners of this award hold substantive discussion with US and foreign scholars, artists and professionals, while exemplifying Lois Roth’s personal legacy of superior creativity and human warmth in their work with others.

Nomination Process

Every spring, the Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs will internally circulate details regarding nominations for the four Lois Roth Foundation Awards. State Department supervisors are invited to submit nominations in all four categories.

Lois Roth Foundation

The Lois Roth Foundation honors the life and work of Lois Wersba Roth. Since 1987, it has sought to promote and encourage dialogue across national, linguistic and cultural boundaries, with an emphasis on the humanities, arts and social sciences. Foundation programs are conducted in collaboration with a range of partners and focused on three domains: Fulbright & Academic Collaborations, Cultural Diplomacy, and Literature & Translation.

Cultural Diplomacy

In recollection of Lois Roth’s efforts to promote cross‐cultural understanding and cooperation as a US Foreign Service Officer, the Roth Foundation partners with the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) (US State Department), to provide the department’s four awards honoring excellence in the field of cultural and educational diplomacy.

The types of qualities displayed by recipients of Roth Foundation cultural diplomacy awards include:

• Cross‐cultural sensitivity and understanding for all—regardless of age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin or disability—and the courage and intellectual integrity to bring alternate facts and opinions into open conversation
• Ingenuity and imagination in creating projects, programs and products to deepen the contact between foreign intellectuals, artists and professionals and their US counterparts
• Familiarity with global affairs and foreign languages, to deepen substantive discussion between US and foreign intellectuals, scholars and professionals
• Patience, wisdom and generosity in helping new colleagues, both international and US, develop their careers
• Special skill in promoting collaborations between US and foreign institutions and high‐quality exchange opportunities with the civil sector.

Jodie Lewinsohn Career Achievement Award

The Jodie Lewinsohn Career Achievement Award honors the most accomplished and longest-serving Locally Employed Staff members, particularly those who are nearing retirement. It is named for a distinguished U.S. Information Agency Foreign Service Officer who was a close friend and mentor to Lois Roth and who also served as the head of the Public Affairs Section at the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa, when Gill Jacot-Guillarmod was working there. In 2022, Jodie left a legacy in her will to endow this award in perpetuity. This award recognizes those who are nearing the end of their careers for long-standing dedication to their work and their success in what Gill described as “helping the United States while helping your own country.” 

Nomination Process

Every spring, the Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs will internally circulate details regarding nominations for the four Lois Roth Foundation Awards. State Department supervisors are invited to submit nominations in all four categories.

Lois Roth Foundation

The Lois Roth Foundation honors the life and work of Lois Wersba Roth. Since 1987, it has sought to promote and encourage dialogue across national, linguistic and cultural boundaries, with an emphasis on the humanities, arts and social sciences. Foundation programs are conducted in collaboration with a range of partners and focused on three domains: Fulbright & Academic Collaborations, Cultural Diplomacy, and Literature & Translation.

Cultural Diplomacy

In recollection of Lois Roth’s efforts to promote cross‐cultural understanding and cooperation as a US Foreign Service Officer, the Roth Foundation partners with the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) (US State Department), to provide the department’s four awards honoring excellence in the field of cultural and educational diplomacy.

The types of qualities displayed by recipients of Roth Foundation cultural diplomacy awards include:

• Cross‐cultural sensitivity and understanding for all—regardless of age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin or disability—and the courage and intellectual integrity to bring alternate facts and opinions into open conversation
• Ingenuity and imagination in creating projects, programs and products to deepen the contact between foreign intellectuals, artists and professionals and their US counterparts
• Familiarity with global affairs and foreign languages, to deepen substantive discussion between US and foreign intellectuals, scholars and professionals
• Patience, wisdom and generosity in helping new colleagues, both international and US, develop their careers
• Special skill in promoting collaborations between US and foreign institutions and high‐quality exchange opportunities with the civil sector.

Gill Jacot-Guillarmod Award

Established in 2013, Gill Jacot-Guillarmod Awards recognize Locally Employed Staff members at US embassies and consulates who have made outstanding contributions in educational and cultural diplomacy to missions shared by the U.S. and the host country. These awards are named in honor of Gillian (Gill) Jacot-Guillarmod who served for 35 years at the US Mission in South Africa and Embassy in Pretoria, spanning the apartheid period to the emergence of democracy.

Such staff members share their deep institutional memory, personal relationships in the community and knowledge of local culture, society and politics. They also maintain continuity at US embassies and missions worldwide, as US Foreign Service Officers rotate every few years, and play an important role as mentors to new colleagues and supervisors alike. 

Nomination Process

Every spring, the Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs will internally circulate details regarding nominations for the four Lois Roth Foundation Awards. State Department supervisors are invited to submit nominations in all four categories.

Gray for Glioblastoma Society

A 501 (c) 3 created to raise awareness for and funds to support Glioblastoma Multiforme research by accepting donations and donating to cancer care and research facilities. Our organization has gifted over $275,000 to support GBM research projects at renowned cancer centers including The Ty Miller Lab at Case Western Reserve University, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Children’s Hospital LA/Saban Research Institute and The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke. We accomplish this while simultaneously creating a hopeful and positive space and providing resources and a space of community through our social media and events.

Gray for Glioblastoma Grant

Gray for Glioblastoma Society (GFG) is dedicated to funding projects that advance glioblastoma (GBM) research and move the needle forward in care and quality of life. We invite proposals that align with our mission and demonstrate meaningful impact in the GBM space.

The Roy J. Shlemon Scholarship Award, offered by the Geological Society of America, supports graduate students pursuing research in environmental and engineering geology. Award amounts vary annually, with at least one scholarship for Master's and one for Doctoral research. The program encourages applications from women, minorities, and persons with disabilities, and requires evaluations from two faculty members. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed, emphasizing the competitive nature of the funding.

The Crop Science Graduate Student Scholarship, supported by the Gerald O. Mott family, offers financial assistance to outstanding graduate students pursuing M.S. or Ph.D. degrees in crop science. Candidates must demonstrate leadership potential and be enrolled in U.S. institutions, while also being members of CSSA or ASA. Self-nominations are allowed, but former recipients and members of the CSSA Awards Committee are ineligible. This scholarship aims to promote excellence in agronomic education.

The Gladys W. Cole Memorial Research Award, established by the Geological Society of America (GSA), supports research in geomorphology of semiarid and arid terrains in the U.S. and Mexico. Aimed at GSA Members or Fellows aged 30 to 65, it recognizes significant contributions to the field. Candidates can reapply if additional funding is needed. Notably, funds cannot be allocated for completed work. This award honors Dr. W. Storrs Cole's legacy and contributions to geosciences.

The Small Instruments and Modern Equipment program invites shared-use biomedical research facilities to apply for funding to purchase small instruments or scientific equipment. These resources, which may include core facilities and biorepositories, aim to enhance operational efficiency and support the use of innovative technologies. Funding is specifically targeted for instruments that produce outputs beyond traditional digital data, excluding highly specialized or building-level infrastructure equipment.

The Regional Excellence for Access to Comprehensive Care for Hemophilia Networks (REACH Networks) aims to enhance access to coordinated, evidence-based care for individuals with hemophilia and related disorders. This initiative will broaden access to comprehensive care, implement quality improvement projects, and provide ongoing training and education for Hemophilia Treatment Center staff. The focus is on improving best practices for comprehensive, collaborative care, including effective lifespan transitions for patients.

The BJA FY 2026 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program offers formula funding to support local governments in enhancing public safety. This grant aids in hiring personnel, purchasing essential equipment, and providing training and technical assistance to address crime and safety challenges. Applicants are encouraged to verify their eligibility for direct JAG funding from BJA before submitting their applications. The deadline for full applications is October 16, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET.

The National Sheep Industry Improvement Program Grant aims to enhance the U.S. sheep industry by funding research and innovative projects. It focuses on improving production, marketing, and sustainability through grants that support leadership training, infrastructure development, and technology research. Eligible entities include various organizations and businesses committed to the sheep sector's advancement. This program prioritizes projects that align with strategic goals to foster efficiency and quality within the industry.

The J. Thomas Dutro Jr. Student Award, presented by the Paleontological Research Institution, recognizes the significance of systematic research in paleontology. This $500 award is open to graduate students (Masters or Ph.D.) engaged in systematic paleontology research. Eligible expenses include research supplies, bench fees, and travel for fieldwork or conferences, supporting the academic growth of promising paleontologists.

The OJP FY 2026 Special Attorneys Program aims to enhance the prosecutorial capacity of state, local, Tribal, and territorial agencies by assigning qualified prosecutors as Special Attorneys. These prosecutors will investigate and prosecute fraud and other crimes committed by aliens in the U.S., as well as drug and human trafficking cases. This initiative, coordinated with federal authorities, seeks to strengthen intergovernmental collaboration and ensure effective enforcement of criminal laws.

The Retina Society, Inc.

The Retina Society was founded in 1968 exclusively for educational and scientific purposes concerning the diagnosis, care and treatment of diseases and injuries to the retina. The Retina Society began as an outgrowth of alumni meetings of Retina Associates, a retina practice founded in Boston in 1951 by Charles L. Schepens. Dr. Schepens is credited with establishing retina surgery as a sub-specialty.  

Our mission is to reduce worldwide visual disability and blindness by promoting the education and professional interaction of vitreoretinal specialists, providing optimal care for patients with vitreoretinal diseases, and encouraging, through clinical and basic research, the discovery and development of new means to further patient care.

Retina Society Research Grants

Supporting the advancement of knowledge and education throughout the global retina community, The Retina Society established a research and education grant program in 2020 to fund annual innovative research grants by Retina Society members in good standing. In 2022, we entered into a partnership with the International Retina Research Foundation to fund three $50,000 grants.

• The applications should fall in one of two categories:
  • basic science/translational research
  • clinical research

Proposed research should attempt to advance our understanding of vitreoretinal physiology or pathophysiology or pursue avenues for potential therapies or therapeutic innovation.

The Alcon Foundation Grant aims to enhance eye care services and improve patient access, with a focus on educational and training programs. The foundation also supports cultural and community development initiatives that uplift the quality of life in areas where Alcon operates, including cities like Fort Worth, Houston, and Irvine. However, it does not fund non-501(c)(3) organizations, athletic leagues, or fundraising events, among other exclusions.

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Collier Scholarship

The Collier Scholarship Fund was established in 2016 by Dr. Wayne Collier to honor the memory of his parents, Herbert & Freida Collier. He is an optometrist and noted community philanthropist in Bucyrus, Ohio, having been named the community’s 2015 Citizen of the Year.

The Collier Scholarship supports promising students and graduates of high schools in Crawford County—Bucyrus, Wynford, Colonel Crawford, and Buckeye Central—where he now lives, as well as his alma mater, Bellevue Senior High in Bellevue, Ohio. Special consideration is given to applicants who participated in music programs in high school or college.