Best Youth Sports Grants in Delaware

The Investing in Artists: Tools & Equipment Grant, offered by the Center for Cultural Innovation, provides funding between $1,000 and $5,000 for individual craft artists in the U.S. to purchase essential tools and equipment. This program aims to enhance the creative support system, enabling artists to produce object-based work and meet safety standards. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to their craft and have presented public artistic work within the last three years.

The ASHRAE Region III Setty Family Foundation Scholarship supports undergraduate students pursuing engineering degrees in HVAC&R fields. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or be in the top 30% of their class. Eligible institutions include those hosting an ASHRAE student branch or accredited engineering programs. This scholarship promotes academic excellence and sustainable practices in the built environment, aligning with ASHRAE's mission to advance technology and human well-being.

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

The DE Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP): Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) offers support to private and tribal landowners for protecting and restoring wetlands impacted by agricultural practices. It provides financial and technical assistance, allowing for various enrollment options including permanent and 30-year easements. The program enhances wildlife habitats, improves water quality, and promotes biodiversity, while prioritizing applications that benefit migratory birds and other wildlife. Applications are accepted year-round.

George H. Henry Award

Award:

• One-time award of $500 awarded in each of the Capital and Cape Henlopen School Districts. 

The DE Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) supports the protection of agricultural lands by limiting nonagricultural uses. Through Agricultural Land Easements (ALE), NRCS assists eligible partners, including governments and organizations, in conserving working agricultural lands. Financial assistance can cover up to 75% of the easement's market value for special grasslands. This initiative aims to sustain agricultural viability and enhance conservation values, thereby fostering long-term agricultural productivity and environmental integrity.

Creating Health Access for Next Generation Equity (CHANGE) Grant Program

Launched in 2023, the AstraZeneca Foundation’s signature Creating Health Access for Next Generation Equity (CHANGE) program works to improve access to quality healthcare.

Beginning April 1, 2026, the AstraZeneca Foundation will accept grant requests of $200,000 - $220,000 for review and consideration for its next cohort of CHANGE grant awardees. Organizations receiving funding in 2026 may be considered for renewed funding on an annual basis for two additional years, contingent upon meeting objectives, funding availability and approval by the Foundation’s Board of Trustees.

The intent of the grants is to provide general operating support for organizations working in innovative, collaborative ways at the community level to help improve access to quality healthcare in their community during the grant year and beyond. Our aim is for funded organizations to maximize the benefit to community members and community-based organizations and to work toward continuing their services beyond potential AstraZeneca Foundation funding.

Please see FAQs for additional guidelines.

The Synod of the Mid-Atlantic's Jubilee Trust Fund supports mission projects aimed at enhancing African-American leadership within congregations. Established in 1982, the fund promotes clergy recruitment, Christian education, and youth ministry. It addresses specific community needs through well-defined initiatives, ensuring that resources are allocated to projects that foster growth and presence of African-American churches in the region. Applications are reviewed by the Jubilee Fund Committee for potential funding.

The Highmark BluePrints for the Community grant, administered by the Delaware Community Foundation, offers funding between $51,000 and $250,000 for health-related projects that address critical community needs in Delaware. Eligible nonprofits can apply for quarterly grants focused on healthcare access, economic stability, social context, and community infrastructure. Since 2007, this initiative has contributed over $27 million to improve health outcomes and advance equity across the state.

The Ron Goellner Conservation Fund Award, administered by the Cryptobranchid Interest Group, offers grants up to $2,000 for projects focused on the conservation of giant salamanders. This initiative supports innovative research, field conservation, and educational initiatives that aim to protect these species and their habitats. Open to all applicants, the fund prioritizes projects that demonstrate broad conservation impact and partnerships. Applications are automatically considered for two separate grants of up to $1,000 each.

The DE Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) offers essential support for farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners to integrate conservation practices into their operations. Through financial and technical assistance, EQIP addresses critical natural resource concerns, including soil health, water quality, and habitat improvement. Eligible applicants include agricultural producers and owners of non-industrial private forestland. This program aims to enhance environmental sustainability while promoting efficient agricultural practices, ultimately benefiting both the land and the community.

The Delaware Civil Money Penalty (CMP) Funds program aims to enhance resident outcomes in certified nursing homes by utilizing monetary penalties imposed on non-compliant facilities. These funds can be reinvested in initiatives such as resident support during facility closures, enhancing family council engagement, and improving facility standards through training. Eligibility includes various organizations like advocacy groups and nursing home associations, while ineligible uses encompass compliance restoration and capital improvements.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, led by the Arbor Day Foundation, promotes sustainable practices by encouraging colleges and universities to cultivate their community forests. By meeting five key standards, institutions can achieve national recognition, enhancing campus beauty and livability while providing environmental and mental health benefits to students and staff. This initiative fosters a commitment to environmental education through service-learning projects, making a lasting impact on both the campus community and the planet.

Who We Are

The Delaware Community Foundation (DCF) is a nonprofit organization focused on partnering with donors to build opportunity and advance equity in Delaware.

Our mission is to strengthen Delaware by maximizing community-based philanthropy.

Our vision is a Delaware where generosity expands opportunities for all.

Looking for some financial help this school year?

The DCF awarded scholarships totaling a record-breaking $850,000 to 245 students for the 2024-2025 school year.

Section 1: Scholarships for Undergraduate Degrees (Bachelors/Associates)

Apply for all of these scholarships simultaneously by completing the DCF’s online General Application under UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES APPLICATION at delcf.org/scholarships. Post-Graduate scholarships will be on a separate application and are listed in Section 2.

SUSSEX COUNTY

Award: One-time award of $1,500.

Who We Are

The Delaware Community Foundation (DCF) is a nonprofit organization focused on partnering with donors to build opportunity and advance equity in Delaware.

Our mission is to strengthen Delaware by maximizing community-based philanthropy.

Our vision is a Delaware where generosity expands opportunities for all.

Looking for some financial help this school year

The DCF awarded scholarships totaling a record-breaking $850,000 to 245 students for the 2024-2025 school year.

Section 2: Scholarships for Postgraduate Degrees (Masters/Doctorates)

Apply for all of these scholarships simultaneously by completing the DCF’s online General Application under POSTGRADUATE DEGREES APPLICATION at delcf.org/scholarships. 

Award: One-time award of $1,500.

The UNICO Foundation offers the Dr. Benjamin Cottone Memorial Scholarship, providing $5,000 to support a U.S. citizen of Italian descent pursuing a medical degree. Eligible candidates must be seniors at accredited colleges or medical schools, with proof of enrollment required. This scholarship not only aids education but also honors the foundation's commitment to community service and heritage, reflecting the core values of the Italian American community.

The DE Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) empowers agricultural producers and non-industrial forestland owners to enhance their conservation practices. With year-round applications, CSP offers personalized consultations to identify suitable enhancements based on existing efforts. Participants can receive annual incentive payments for practice implementation, with options for bundled enhancements for higher rates. This program not only promotes sustainable land management but also supports the long-term viability of agricultural operations throughout Delaware.

The Highmark BluePrints Small Grants program, managed by the Delaware Community Foundation, allocates funds to nonprofits addressing critical health-related issues in Delaware. Grants up to $50,000 support initiatives focused on enhancing health care access, reducing disparities, and fostering early childhood development. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) public charities and certain government agencies. The program emphasizes community equity and welcomes applications for innovative solutions that improve health outcomes for underserved populations.

The Margaret F. Moore Foundation Scholarship, administered by the Delaware Community Foundation, offers $2,000 annually for four years to Delaware residents, especially those from Sussex County, pursuing degrees in Elementary or Secondary Education. With a total scholarship fund of $850,000 for the 2024-2025 academic year, this initiative aims to support students in achieving their educational goals while promoting equity and opportunity within the community.

The Exhibitions Abroad Support Grant Program, initiated by the Japan Foundation in New York, offers financial aid to U.S. museums and art institutions organizing exhibitions that showcase Japanese art and culture internationally. This program supports a range of events, including biennials and triennials featuring Japanese artists. Eligible applicants are non-profit organizations from designated states, with a focus on promoting cultural exchange and understanding through art.

The J.D. O’Connor Scholarship, offered by the Delaware Community Foundation, provides a four-year award of $5,000 annually to graduating seniors from Sussex County high schools. Students must enroll in an accredited Delaware institution and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.50 to renew their award. This scholarship aims to support local students in their pursuit of higher education, ultimately enhancing opportunities and promoting equity within the community.

The Delaware Nonpoint Source Section 319 Grant Program, administered by the DNREC, provides funding for projects aimed at reducing nonpoint source pollution in Delaware. This program supports initiatives that implement best management practices to combat pollution from diffuse sources like agriculture and construction. By addressing these issues, the grant aims to protect both surface and ground waters, ensuring a healthier environment for the community.

The DE Community Water Quality Improvement Grant (CWQIG) supports projects aimed at enhancing water quality in impaired watersheds across Delaware. Funded by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), grants range from $25,000 to $75,000. Eligible projects include stormwater retrofits and stream restoration that align with established environmental strategies. This initiative aims to address pollution and improve the ecological health of Delaware's waterways.

The Delaware Division of the Arts provides General Operating Support Grants to nonprofit organizations focused on the promotion and teaching of the arts. Eligible organizations must be based in Delaware, have a stable board, and demonstrate a history of community service. Grants support annual operating expenses, allowing for year-round arts participation. A staggered three-year application cycle ensures ongoing support while minimizing the application burden. These grants foster artistic growth and community engagement in Delaware.

The Don and Nancy Edwards Scholarship, awarded by the Delaware Community Foundation, provides a one-time award of $2,000 to applicants who are current or former employees of SoDel Concepts in Sussex County and are pursuing a degree at an accredited institution. This scholarship aims to support individuals who have contributed to the local community through their employment, reinforcing the Foundation's mission of advancing equity and opportunity in Delaware.

The DE Urban and Community Forestry Grant Program aims to enhance Delaware's urban tree canopy through quality tree planting and management projects. It encourages sustainable forestry practices, improves stormwater management, and promotes diversity and inclusion in urban forestry efforts. By funding tree planting and management initiatives, this program seeks to improve air quality and foster community involvement in stewardship of urban forest resources.

The DE Aglands Preservation Grant Program, managed by the Delaware Department of Agriculture, aims to encourage the conservation of agricultural lands through a two-phase process. Established in 1991, this program allows landowners to voluntarily preserve their farms. In the first phase, landowners can enroll in an Agricultural Preservation District, while the second phase allows them to permanently preserve their farmland by selling development rights. This initiative supports sustainable agriculture and provides tax benefits, ensuring the longevity of Delaware’s agricultural heritage.