Best Des Moines Grants for Nonprofits in Iowa

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin offers a robust college scholarship program, providing over $325,000 annually to students in Portage and Waushara counties. Scholarships, ranging from $500 to $40,000, are available for high school seniors, college students, and non-traditional learners. Selection criteria include financial need, community involvement, academic achievement, and extracurricular activities, ensuring support for a diverse range of educational pursuits.

The Dave Ragan Jr. Memorial Golf Scholarship, managed by the Coral Gables Community Foundation, offers financial support to graduating seniors with a passion for golf. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, demonstrate financial need, and intend to play golf at the collegiate level. This scholarship honors the legacy of Dave Ragan Jr. and aims to foster educational opportunities through sports. Over the years, the Foundation has awarded over $2.9 million in scholarships, emphasizing academic achievement and community engagement.

The Bill & Carol Rogacheski Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, provides financial support to students in Portage and Waushara counties. With scholarships ranging from $500 to $40,000, it aims to assist both traditional and non-traditional learners pursuing full-time undergraduate studies or technical education, particularly in medical fields or as first responders. Applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate financial need, along with active participation in extracurricular activities.

The Bettye Smith Brown Memorial Scholarship Fund honors a dedicated advocate for education, offering two $10,000 scholarships annually to high school seniors in Warren County, MS. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens with strong academic records and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship celebrates the legacy of Ms. Brown, who inspired many to pursue their educational dreams, ensuring her commitment to academic excellence continues to impact future generations.

The Congressional Science Fellowship Program offers a unique opportunity for Ph.D. holders to work at the intersection of science and government in Washington D.C. This prestigious fellowship, sponsored by ASA, CSSA, and SSSA, allows participants to apply their expertise as special assistants to Congress members. The fellowship begins in September 2025 and concludes in August 2026, providing an annual stipend and relocation expenses. Ideal for early to mid-career scientists, it encourages the use of scientific knowledge in public policy.

Lindsay Lloyd North Korea Freedom Scholarship

The Lindsay Lloyd North Korea Freedom Scholarship (supported by the George W. Bush Foundation) provides one or more annual scholarships for up to $10,000 to lawful permanent residents of the United States, U.S. citizens or refugees who were born in North Korea pursuing an educational program in the United States or its possessions. North Korean-born individuals pursuing a degree in accredited colleges and universities in the United States with South Korean citizenship are eligible to apply.

This scholarship may be renewed on an annual basis by completing the scholarship application in full. Renewal applications will be reviewed alongside first-time applicants.

The Remote Biomarker Measurements in Microphysiological Systems Grant seeks innovative proposals to enhance remote biomarker analysis technologies for microphysiological systems, crucial for deep space missions. It prioritizes non-invasive, adaptable methods that allow for continuous monitoring of biomarkers without sample return. This initiative aims to advance personalized healthcare and biological research, addressing astronaut health in challenging environments. Eligible entities include U.S. institutions and collaborations with foreign entities under specific conditions.

The Lady Suzanna P. Tweed Scholarship, administered by the Coral Gables Community Foundation, honors Lady Tweed's legacy of supporting education and volunteerism. Aimed at students from Coral Gables Senior High, it requires excellence in academics and community involvement. Awards are based on financial need and can be one-year or renewable. Over $2.9 million in scholarships have been granted in the past decade, helping deserving students further their education at various institutions.

The Kerdyk Family Trust Music Scholarship, administered by the Coral Gables Community Foundation, honors students with a passion for music. Established in memory of Commissioner William H. Kerdyk, Sr., this annual scholarship is awarded to graduating seniors who demonstrate musical interest and academic success. Key eligibility factors include residing in Coral Gables and planning to pursue music studies in college. The scholarship supports students aiming for a career in music, fostering future talent in the arts.

The Jeannett Slesnick Community Spirit Scholarship offers up to four years of college tuition assistance for graduating seniors from Coral Gables High School, Miami Senior High School, or ISPA. Applicants should demonstrate an interest in communications, journalism, leadership, or historic preservation, and must maintain a 3.0 GPA. Established in 2022 by Jeannett and Don Slesnick, this scholarship honors Jeannett's commitment to community service and education, supporting local high school graduates in their academic pursuits.

The ANR Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship offers financial support to researchers focusing on arthritis and related autoimmune diseases. This initiative aims to cultivate future leaders in the field by providing fellowships that foster innovative research and exceptional training opportunities. Open to various research areas, including osteoarthritis and lupus, the fellowship seeks to empower physicians to advance their work and make impactful contributions to understanding these conditions.

The Nature Awards for Inspiring Women in Science celebrate outstanding contributions by women in STEM fields. These awards recognize early-career female researchers who demonstrate exceptional achievements, face challenges, and inspire the next generation through outreach. Winners receive prizes totaling $50,000, mentorship opportunities, and invitations to prestigious ceremonies. This initiative promotes inclusivity and aims to enhance the representation of women in science, thereby supporting a diverse and equitable scientific community.

The Nature Awards for Inspiring Women in Science, particularly in the Science Outreach category, honors initiatives that empower girls and young women in STEM fields. With a focus on engagement and retention, the awards aim to celebrate projects that encourage participation in natural sciences, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine. Winners will receive significant cash prizes and opportunities for mentorship, creating pathways for future generations of women in science.

The URAF Conference Funding program at Harvard University provides support for undergraduate students presenting original research at academic conferences. With awards up to $500 for domestic conferences and $750 for international presentations, students must be enrolled and in good standing. The program encourages applications year-round, allowing for different iterations of the same presentation. However, funding cannot be applied retroactively, and group applications are not permitted.

The McElhattan Foundation focuses on innovative solutions to end workplace fatalities by 2050. It invites proposals that develop new technologies, particularly those that eliminate dangerous tasks at work. The foundation partners with the National Safety Council’s Work to Zero program to enhance safety practices. Organizations seeking funding should be established non-profits with a history of successful collaboration, and grants typically start at $50,000. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, fostering impactful initiatives.

The Anonymous Was A Woman Environmental Art Grants offer up to $20,000 for environmental art projects led by women-identifying artists in the U.S. and territories. Focused on themes like regeneration and eco-social engagement, the grants encourage projects that address ecological issues through ethical engagement. For the 2025 cycle, over $520,000 will be distributed, doubling previous funding. Eligible applicants must be 18+, lead artists, and not enrolled in degree programs during the grant term.

The JUF Springboard Access Grant aims to make Jewish programming more accessible for teens in grades 8-12 in the Chicago area. This grant covers up to 50% of the tuition costs for first-time participants in multi-day programs organized by approved Jewish nonprofits. It encourages teens to engage with their community and explore new interests while ensuring financial barriers are lowered. Eligible teens are expected to share their experiences with the organization after participating.

The Advancing Equity Through Oral Health Funds, initiated by CareQuest Institute, seeks to transform oral health systems by supporting projects that dismantle disparities faced by marginalized communities. The program encourages organizations to propose innovative solutions that enhance access to dental care, engage community voices, and promote policies that ensure equitable health outcomes for all. This initiative aims to create a more integrated and accessible healthcare system, particularly for historically underserved populations.

The OAR Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for autistic individuals by funding community-led projects that address physical health and support services. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $15,000 are available for initiatives designed to produce practical tools and resources. Eligible applicants include family members, autistic individuals, and community organizations committed to improving the lives of those affected by autism. Projects should be innovative, publicly accessible, and focus on priority topics such as health systems and community services.

The Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes honors 25 exceptional young leaders aged 8 to 18 from diverse backgrounds across the U.S. and Canada. Each winner receives $10,000 for education or service projects, a personalized plaque, and media opportunities. Selection focuses on impactful service activities primarily initiated by the young hero, demonstrating qualities of courage, generosity, and moral purpose. This prize encourages youth to inspire others and create positive change in their communities.

The NAMA Memorial Fellowship, awarded by the Mycological Society of America, recognizes promising graduate students in mycology. Two fellowships are granted annually based on academic merit and research potential. Recipients must be student members of MSA and can use the funds to enhance their studies. Additionally, they are encouraged to contribute to McIlvainea and attend the annual meeting, fostering connections within the mycological community. This initiative supports diversity and inclusion in the field.

The American Indian College Fund offers scholarships for non-Tribal college students, providing financial support for American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing higher education at accredited institutions. Applications open annually on February 1st, with a priority deadline of May 31st. Award amounts typically range from $2,000 to $3,000. Students are encouraged to apply early to ensure priority review for available scholarships, fostering educational opportunities and success for Indigenous youth.

The American Indian College Fund offers scholarships to American Indian and Alaska Native students enrolled at Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs). Applications open annually on February 1st, with a priority deadline of May 31st. Eligible students can apply for various merit-based scholarships, with awards averaging between $2,000 and $3,000. The College Fund encourages applications by the priority deadline for a better chance of funding.

The American Indian College Fund Scholarship supports high school students who are enrolled members of federally recognized tribes, or their descendants, pursuing higher education. Applications open annually on February 1st, with a priority deadline of May 31st. This merit-based scholarship provides an opportunity for students to receive awards averaging between $2,000 and $3,000 to help fund their college education. Eligible students should apply during their last semester of high school.

The AISES Stellantis Scholarship aims to enhance the representation of Indigenous peoples in STEM fields. Funded by Stellantis, this scholarship offers $20,000 for full-time students enrolled in colleges with Mopar Career Automotive Programs. Eligible candidates must be current AISES members and either enrolled citizens or descendants of recognized Indigenous groups. The program not only supports education but also fosters a diverse and inclusive workforce within the automotive industry.

The Cameron Impact Scholarship, awarded by the Bryan Cameron Education Foundation, offers a full-tuition four-year scholarship to 15 exceptional high school students annually. This merit-based program seeks leaders who excel in academics, community service, and extracurricular activities. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.7 or higher and demonstrate a commitment to positive change. The scholarship covers tuition, fees, and books at any accredited U.S. college, with an emphasis on public service careers.

The Cottrell IMPACT Award recognizes the significant contributions of Cottrell Scholars and Holland Award recipients in advancing science through leadership and service. It encourages excellence in academic leadership while raising the profile of awardees nationally. The award includes a $5,000 cash prize and highlights recipients at the Cottrell Scholar Conference and in professional journals, fostering a community of innovative researchers committed to impactful science.