Best Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Delaware

Spencer Educational Foundation Inc

The Spencer Educational Foundation was founded by the Rims Atlanta Chapter in 1979. To this day, Spencer remains the premier organization funding the education of tomorrow's risk management and insurance leaders.

The Spencer Educational Foundation: awards merit-based scholarships and grants to university students pursuing careers in risk management, insurance, and/or actuarial science; provides grants that create experiential learning opportunities both on and off campus; funds the development of risk management and insurance curricula in colleges and universities; supports Risk Managers by creating internship opportunities within the risk management function of their companies; and operates across the United States and Canada. 

Spencer Educational Foundation: General Grants

Spencer’s goal to help build a talent pipeline of Risk Management and Insurance professionals is achieved in part by our collaboration with Risk Management and Insurance educators across the United States and Canada. Since 2010, Spencer has awarded over $4.5 million in General Grants to support over 225 student-centered experiential learning initiatives at universities and RMI non-profit orgs.

Spencer's General Grants Program supports student-centered initiatives that (1) provide experiential learning opportunities for Risk Management & Insurance students and (2) attract new talent to risk and insurance careers. 

The NIH Countermeasures Against Chemical Threats (CounterACT) initiative invites applications for basic research on chemical agents affecting the nervous system. This program aims to explore the toxicity mechanisms of chemical warfare agents, industrial chemicals, and pesticides. Researchers are encouraged to generate data that could reveal new therapeutic targets and manifestations of toxic exposures, contributing to public health safety against potential chemical threats.

The Animal and Veterinary Innovation Centers (U18) funding opportunity, led by the FDA, aims to foster collaborations with academic institutions to tackle critical veterinary health challenges. This includes addressing Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, promoting genomic advancements in agriculture, and developing veterinary solutions for minor species. Applications are invited to enhance animal health and public safety, with Letters of Intent due prior to the July 2024 deadline.

The Hayden Family Scholarship, established by Ms. Jerry Hayden in memory of her father, supports students pursuing an associate's or bachelor's degree, or workforce training in Alabama. It is open to part-time and full-time students at accredited U.S. institutions and can be renewed annually for up to four years, contingent on maintaining eligibility. Funds can be utilized for tuition, housing, and educational supplies, emphasizing the importance of exploring additional financial resources.

The James B and Lois R Archer Charitable Foundation offers Large Grants for requests exceeding $10,000. Focused on fostering positive change, the foundation supports initiatives in Arts and Culture, Civic Engagement, Education, Health, and Human Services. Eligibility includes 501(c)(3) organizations, while restrictions apply to consecutive grant cycles and non-qualifying purposes such as endowments and fundraising events. Organizations are encouraged to apply for various projects to enhance community well-being.

The James B and Lois R Archer Charitable Foundation offers Smaller Grants of $10,000 or less to support initiatives in Arts and Culture, Civic Engagement, Education, Health, and Human Services. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and comply with eligibility criteria, including a one-year waiting period for reapplications. The foundation aims to have a significant impact on communities, especially in West Texas, while avoiding funding for specific exclusions such as endowments and fundraising events.

The NINDS Alzheimer’s Disease-Related Dementias (ADRD) K99/R00 program promotes diversity by supporting new independent investigators from underrepresented backgrounds in AD/ADRD research. This award facilitates a transition from mentored postdoctoral positions to independent faculty roles, providing essential NIH research support. Applicants must propose research that does not involve leading a clinical trial but may include participation in trials led by mentors. Key deadlines for applications span from October 2024 to June 2027.

The Terry Lee Kaylor Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Central Kansas Community Foundation, aims to assist graduating high school seniors pursuing higher education or vocational training. Preference is given to students from Douglass High School with a minimum GPA of 2.85 and a demonstrated financial need. The scholarship amount varies based on available funds, and recipients will be notified of their award status in May. This scholarship is not renewable and encourages all eligible students to apply.

The Nick Andros Music Scholarship, established by the family and friends of Nick Andros, honors his passion for music and positive inspiration. This scholarship seeks to support students who demonstrate Nick's spirit through their dedication to the arts. Eligible candidates must be high school seniors from Saginaw County with a minimum GPA of 2.0, pursuing an undergraduate degree. Applicants are required to submit an MP3 of their work, showcasing their musical talents.

The Keith and Marilyn Harsh Scholarship, managed by the Central Kansas Community Foundation, provides financial assistance to graduates of Kansas high schools, particularly those from Peabody-Burns, Marion, and Lyon County. The scholarship prioritizes students planning to attend Emporia State University and those pursuing degrees in education, with selection based on financial need and academic potential. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. Funding amounts vary based on available resources.

The SHAPE America Hall of Fame Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to health and physical education, ensuring these fields remain central to educational programs. This prestigious award honors dedicated professionals, including educators and leaders, who have demonstrated exemplary commitment and leadership in promoting physical activity, health education, and related disciplines. Through their efforts, they enhance the quality of education and the well-being of students across the nation.

The Henry D. and Ruth G. Swartz Family Fund Scholarship, established in 1996, supports high school seniors from North Ottawa County pursuing post-secondary education in engineering, computer science, pre-law, or medicine. Awarded competitively by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, applicants must demonstrate financial need and provide necessary documentation, including transcripts and recommendation letters. This scholarship honors the legacy of local residents Hank and Ruth Swartz, encouraging students to achieve their educational goals.

This funding opportunity aims to address the urgent mental health crisis in the U.S. by promoting research that enhances access to evidence-based practices for youth. It encourages applications focusing on interventions for underserved populations, including those facing housing and food insecurities. Researchers are invited to explore strategies for improving service delivery, overcoming workforce challenges, and integrating care into accessible settings, ultimately striving for equitable mental health services for all youth.

Healthcare Assistance Grant

The MS Focus Healthcare Assistance Grant assists uninsured individuals with the cost of visiting their MS specialist as well as dental assistance. The grant, which can pay for one visit and one follow-up, is designed to assist those already diagnosed with MS who may need a visit to their treating physician to renew a prescription or handle other important needs. 

Applicants give MS Focus staff authorization to negotiate costs directly with the provider, and the fee is paid directly to the doctor. 

The Ruth Mitchell Hanson Scholarship is designed to support talented students from Saginaw County pursuing a career in music. Established in memory of Ruth Mitchell Hanson, a passionate composer and music instructor, this scholarship aims to honor her legacy and encourage future musicians. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.25, be high school seniors, and be enrolled full-time in a music program at an accredited college or university. Awards typically range from $500 to $4,000.

The Clinical Data, Safety and Statistical Centers (CDSSC) program, supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), aims to enhance clinical research through comprehensive support. This includes statistical analysis, protocol development, and oversight of safety monitoring in studies related to asthma, autoimmune diseases, and transplantation. By coordinating these efforts, the program seeks to facilitate impactful research outcomes and improve public health outcomes through informed data-driven decisions.

The Joan M. Wismer Foundation, established in 2001, honors the legacy of Joan Marilynn Wismer, who was dedicated to charitable work and community service. The foundation focuses on improving lives through education, youth development, safety, humanitarian services, and medical research. It primarily supports IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and churches, while emphasizing the importance of sustainable funding and effective financial management in its grant-making process.

About Us

The Elk County Community Foundation was started in the late 1990’s by a group of business and civic leaders, with the support of the Stackpole-Hall Foundation, who recognized the need for creating a perpetual funding stream to support Elk County—now and in the future. The Foundation was incorporated in 2000 and a year later was classified as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

The Foundation provides donors with a simple but powerful and highly personal approach to achieving their philanthropic goals while enhancing the quality of life for the people of Elk County.

The Community Foundation makes it easy for individuals, businesses, and organizations to establish a scholarship fund. Your fund can be created in as little as one meeting, with a short fund agreement, and a single gift. Or your fund can be set up with an initial gift that is added to in the future. We manage all the administrative details of your fund for you.

By establishing a uniquely-named scholarship, you have the ability to designate eligibility requirements including education level, the field of study, geographic area, etc. Many scholarships are established to honor parents, a family member, or someone who influenced your life.

Most scholarship funds at the Foundation are permanent endowments, with the annual earnings used to provide the scholarships

Tyler Bender EMS Scholarship Fund

Tyler Bender recently graduated from the Center for Emergency Medicine, and he felt compelled to give back by starting this scholarship to encourage other individuals to consider the EMS field. There is a constant demand for well-trained and qualified EMS professionals. Tyler hopes that this scholarship fund will help attract individuals to the field and alleviate a shortage of EMS personnel.

Amount: $500 annually

Who We Are

Saginaw County is home. It is a beautiful community you’d be foolish to underestimate. We may have our challenges, but seeing its cities, villages and townships continue to grow and flourish gives us a sense of satisfaction and pride like none other.

Back in 1984, The Saginaw Community Foundation was founded to enhance the quality of life in our county by providing leadership, education, and support for philanthropy. Today, we still continue this mission of supporting the needs of our community through targeted grants, investments, and scholarships.

In addition to our grantmaking and scholarship programs, the Foundation also offers donor advised funds, which allow donors to recommend charitable grants to organizations of their choice. We also manage several endowed funds, which provide ongoing support for specific causes or organizations.

Saginaw Community Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors composed of community leaders and volunteers. A staff of professionals oversee our day-to-day operations and work with donors and community organizations to identify and address community needs.

CTE Scholarships

Dreaming of a career in welding? Maybe managing your own auto mechanics garage fuels your thoughts or you would love to become an electrician. Perhaps studying to become a chef in a culinary arts program suits your tastes.

No matter what your career path may be, there is little doubt that in recent years interest in Career and Technical Education (CTE) has grown. The increased need for workers skilled in the trades has resulted in larger numbers of students seeking out CTE programs.

Schools offering CTE encompass a wide variety of hands-on education, from HVAC to carpentry to cosmetology. In the past, financial assistance has been hard to come by for these areas of study, but that is no longer the case. Saginaw Community Foundation has several scholarship opportunities for those who have the desire to pursue CTE.

According to leading economists, not everyone needs a four-year degree. In fact, millions of good-paying jobs are opening up in the trades. And some pay better than what the average college graduate makes.

For aspiring welders, electricians, carpenters, and other valued skilled trade workers, there is great opportunity to take advantage of tailored CTE programs. The demand is massive as an estimated 3 million trade jobs in the United States remain vacant.

Our CTE scholarship awards range between $500 – $4,000 typically.

The Patricia and William Hendrick Memorial Scholarship

Long-time Saginaw residents Pat and Bill Hendrick were graduates of St. Mary’s High School in Saginaw. They supported Catholic education their entire lives at the primary, secondary, and higher education level. Pat and Bill believed in and helped further the cause of Catholic education with enthusiasm and financial support all their lives.

To honor Pat and Bill, their family and many friends established this scholarship to help Saginaw County residents who are going on to attend Catholic higher education. Special preference will be given to graduates of Nouvel Catholic Central High School and/or those attending the University of Notre Dame – two organizations which held a special place in their hearts.

The Ruth E. Reed Nursing Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of the Northern Alleghenies, honors the legacy of Ruth Reed, a dedicated nurse. This scholarship supports students from Elk, Warren, and Clearfield Counties pursuing nursing degrees, with a GPA requirement of 2.5 or higher. With an annual award of approximately $500, it encourages future generations to pursue careers in nursing while recognizing the importance of continued education in healthcare.

Honor Grants

Supporting organizations that serve victims and families.

Our Honor Grant program provides financial support to 501(c)(3) nonprofits that offer services to victims and families impacted by heinous crimes. Awarded quarterly, these grants help organizations continue vital work in some of the hardest moments families will ever face.

• Grants up to $20,000, with occasional consideration for larger requests
• Open year-round to eligible organizations
• Funding supports a wide range of programs and projects, with a focus on those that are innovative, impactful, and built for long-term sustainability

The Lawrence F. and Barbara J. Dickman Scholarship supports Zeeland High School graduates pursuing higher education in the U.S. on a medical track. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and can reapply if they have received the award previously. Recommendations from teachers or counselors are required. Scholarships are usable starting in the fall of the announcement year and unaccepted scholarships will be forfeited after December 31. This scholarship aims to foster future healthcare professionals.

The Older Adults Home Modification Grant Program aims to assist nonprofit organizations, governments, and housing authorities in making essential modifications to homes for low-income seniors. By focusing on safety and accessibility, the program seeks to reduce fall risks, enhance general safety, and improve seniors' ability to live independently. This initiative promotes aging in place, allowing seniors to remain in their homes rather than transition to nursing facilities, thereby fostering a sense of community and well-being.

Cumberland Community Foundation ("CCF") manages more than 60 scholarship endowment funds created by local individuals, families, civic organizations, and corporations who want to provide a path to higher education for future generations. 

Each year, Cumberland Community Foundation announces more than $1,000,000 in college scholarships to students from southeastern North Carolina.

Leonard G. McLeod Theatre Scholarship

Receiving a diploma from any high school in Cumberland County.

The Gloria Anderson Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of the Northern Alleghenies, honors a beloved music teacher and the founder of the Singing Dutchmen Men’s Chorus. This scholarship, amounting to approximately $1,000, is available to high school seniors pursuing degrees in music education or performance, particularly those from areas served by the Singing Dutchmen. It reflects the Foundation's commitment to supporting local students in their educational endeavors.

The NIH Research Evaluation and Commercialization Hubs (REACH) program aims to facilitate the translation of biomedical discoveries into marketable products to enhance patient care. By funding five new academic entrepreneurship hubs, NIH will provide essential resources such as funding, mentorship, and expertise in product development. These hubs will address high-priority technologies and foster public-private partnerships, ultimately supporting the goals of federal research initiatives and addressing local health needs in underserved areas.

The Asthma and Allergic Diseases Cooperative Research Centers (AADCRC) program, supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), aims to enhance research on asthma and related allergic diseases. This initiative fosters multi-center, multidisciplinary research to explore disease mechanisms and treatment responses. By promoting clinical trials and observational studies, the AADCRC seeks to advance understanding and improve interventions for conditions such as asthma and food allergies, ultimately benefiting public health.