Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in District of Columbia

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois will make a sustainable philanthropic impact in our community through visible leadership in connecting people who care with causes that matter.

Vernon “Butch” Gudat Scholarship Fund

The Vernon “Butch” Gudat Scholarship Fund was established to create a living legacy in memory of Peoria Fire Captain Vernon “Butch” Gudat. College scholarships are provided to qualifying children and grandchildren of career and volunteer firefighters in Peoria, Tazewell, and Woodford counties.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Alaska Native Students in Arts and Media Fund

The purpose of the Alaska Native Students in Art & Media Fund (ANSAM) is to support Alaska Native students who want to pursue higher education in media and/or visual arts. This includes, but is not limited to photography, videography, journalism, writing, graphic & digital design, drawing, painting. This annual scholarship will provide one student $5,000 to help acquire and build the skills to tell their own personal and cultural stories through visual and other media. The scholarship can be used for university level courses or professional development workshops.

The JFNY Grant for Japanese Studies provides funding of up to $5,000 for U.S.-based institutions with 501(c)(3) status to enhance understanding of Japan through academic projects. Eligible projects include conferences, lectures, and symposia, whether in-person or virtual. The grant covers expenses such as honoraria, travel, accommodation, and research materials. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and submission is required at least three months prior to the project start date.

Udall Foundation

The Udall Foundation awards scholarships, fellowships, and internships for study in fields related to the environment and to American Indians and Alaska Natives in fields related to health care and tribal public policy; provides funding to the Udall Center for Studies in Public Policy and to the Native Nations Institute to conduct environmental policy research, research on American Indian and Alaska Native health care issues and tribal public policy issues, and training; and provides assessment, mediation, training, and other related services through the John S. McCain III National Center for Environmental Conflict Resolution (National Center or NCECR).

Morris K. Udall and John S. McCain III Native American Graduate Fellowship in Tribal Policy

The Morris K. Udall and John S. McCain III Native American Graduate Fellowship in Tribal Policy (Native American Graduate Fellowship) recognizes outstanding Native American and Alaska Native graduate students who are currently pursuing advanced degrees in health care fields—including, but not limited to, health administration, health education, public health, medical practice, policy, research, or related-degrees—and who have demonstrated a commitment to Native health care. The Native American Graduate Fellowship Program honors the legacies of Morris K. Udall and John S. McCain III.

South Florida Forensic Engineering 

South Florida Forensic Engineering was founded to provide specific building inspection services, inherent to the unique South Florida location. Our broad-ranging experience and innovative building science research enable us to maintain expert status on the forefront of the modern field of Forensic Engineering. The applications include storm damage assessments, complex plumbing leaks, property dispute resolution, site turnover studies, and building certifications.

Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Scholarship

We offer one annual Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) scholarship.

Auger & Auger Disabled Scholar Award (Undergraduate Students)

The accident and injury lawyers at Auger & Auger are proud to support the disabled students of America with the launch of their Annual Auger & Auger Disabled Scholar Award, awarded in the Fall Semester each year to one high-achieving, bright student intending to pursue an undergraduate college degree.

As a personal injury law firm, our attorneys frequently represent families who are coping with the aftermath of serious injuries and disabling impairments. We observe firsthand the unique challenges that disabled men and women face and see the strength and perseverance necessary to overcome expectations. As part of our efforts to give back to the disabled community, Auger & Auger Accident and Injury Lawyers is sponsoring a $1,000 scholarship, given once a year, to assist with tuition and expenses at a qualifying undergraduate institution.

The Disabled Scholar Award is just a part of our efforts to be good members of the community and to give back to our fellow citizens. Our participation in Walk Like MADD’s 5K Fun Run helped raise awareness about drunk driving and with the Disabled Scholar Award, we hope to both raise awareness about the challenges disabled young people face while also helping one special young person to achieve his/her goals and dreams.

Applicants will be judged on their academic merits as well as the content of the application and essay they provide.

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Scholarships

The mission of the Marshfield Area Community Foundation is “Connecting people who care with causes that matter to enrich the quality of life in the Marshfield area”. Education is a valuable tool and a cause that matters to all of us. Through assisting students with financial support to receive an education, not only do students and the families of those students benefit, but also our community benefits, which further allows us to achieve our mission of enriching the quality of life in the Marshfield area.

Geographical Area

The official geographic service area of Marshfield Area Community Foundation, Inc., beginning to our west and traveling clockwise, includes the following communities in addition to Marshfield (It also includes towns and rural areas between these communities.): Chili, Granton, Neillsville, Loyal, Greenwood, Withee, Owen, Spencer, Unity, Colby, Curtiss, Pittsville, Abbotsford, Dorchester, Stetsonville, Medford, Stratford, Rozellville, Hewitt, Auburndale, Blenker, Milladore, Sherry, Arpin.

Marshfield Lions Club Edward W. Heller Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is for a student studying communication or journalism attending school full-time. Preference to a student entering their junior or senior year of undergraduate school OR a student attending a graduate school. Scholarship is renewable for a total of 4 years. Only one scholarship awarded per year.

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Scholarships

The mission of the Marshfield Area Community Foundation is “Connecting people who care with causes that matter to enrich the quality of life in the Marshfield area”. Education is a valuable tool and a cause that matters to all of us. Through assisting students with financial support to receive an education, not only do students and the families of those students benefit, but also our community benefits, which further allows us to achieve our mission of enriching the quality of life in the Marshfield area.

Geographical Area

The official geographic service area of Marshfield Area Community Foundation, Inc., beginning to our west and traveling clockwise, includes the following communities in addition to Marshfield (It also includes towns and rural areas between these communities.): Chili, Granton, Neillsville, Loyal, Greenwood, Withee, Owen, Spencer, Unity, Colby, Curtiss, Pittsville, Abbotsford, Dorchester, Stetsonville, Medford, Stratford, Rozellville, Hewitt, Auburndale, Blenker, Milladore, Sherry, Arpin.

James Brasington Theater Scholarship

This scholarship is for a student wo is attending school full-time pursuing an undergraduate degree intending to study theater arts. Preference to a student who shows interest in and affinity for the art of acting and shows financial need. This scholarship can be renewed 3 additional years.

Special Achievement Scholarships

These scholarships are intended for graduating seniors from each Greene County high school who intend to enroll as full-time students at an accredited college or university. The Special Achievement Scholarships were established by the Greene County Foundation Board of Directors to honor the special achievements of graduating high school seniors. One award shall be given for each Greene County high school.

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

The Paul W. and Pearl K. Goodman Music Scholarship Fund

Provides financial assistance for individuals attending the NICE School District (grades 3 to 10, based on financial need) to take part in instrumental and vocal music lessons.

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Scholarships

The mission of the Marshfield Area Community Foundation is “Connecting people who care with causes that matter to enrich the quality of life in the Marshfield area”. Education is a valuable tool and a cause that matters to all of us. Through assisting students with financial support to receive an education, not only do students and the families of those students benefit, but also our community benefits, which further allows us to achieve our mission of enriching the quality of life in the Marshfield area.

Geographical Area

The official geographic service area of Marshfield Area Community Foundation, Inc., beginning to our west and traveling clockwise, includes the following communities in addition to Marshfield (It also includes towns and rural areas between these communities.): Chili, Granton, Neillsville, Loyal, Greenwood, Withee, Owen, Spencer, Unity, Colby, Curtiss, Pittsville, Abbotsford, Dorchester, Stetsonville, Medford, Stratford, Rozellville, Hewitt, Auburndale, Blenker, Milladore, Sherry, Arpin.

Heck P.E.O. - AJ and LeGrand Scholarship

This scholarship is for a non-traditional female student, who, having been in the workforce, is attempting to better their career standing, or change careers by pursuing an academic or trade degree full or part time at a university or tech school.

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County. 

Saint Paul’s School Commemorative Fund

Provides financial assistance to members of St. Paul’s Parish who will be pursuing certification or a degree at an institution of higher education. 

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service, an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services , is responsible for providing federal health services to American Indians and Alaska Natives. The provision of health services to members of federally-recognized tribes grew out of the special government-to-government relationship between the federal government and Indian tribes. This relationship, established in 1787, is based on Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution, and has been given form and substance by numerous treaties, laws, Supreme Court decisions, and Executive Orders. The IHS is the principal federal health care provider and health advocate for Indian people, and its goal is to raise their health status to the highest possible level. The IHS provides a comprehensive health service.

IHS Extern Program

Become an IHS Extern

The Indian Health Service (IHS) offers IHS scholarship recipients and other qualified students the opportunity to participate in a hands-on instructive experience that will complement the knowledge and skills developed in school. This experience will help to enhance pre-professional training, while also familiarizing yourself with Native communities that are of interest to you when you begin your health professions career.

IHS externs are employed for 30 to 120 workdays per calendar year during non-academic periods

Salary

Externs received a salary based on experience and years of academic training that is comparable to industry standards. IHS will waive your salary if the externship fulfills a required academic field placement or an internship.

Housing

Externs are responsible for securing their own housing arrangements. Host sites may be able to provide information or resources to assist in identifying housing options within the community. Externs are encouraged to maintain communication with their Extern Coordinator and host site to ensure all arrangements are confirmed prior to travel. This preparation supports a smooth transition into the externship experience and enables externs to focus on contributing to the Indian Health.

Eligible degree programs for Summer 2025 (must be accepted into program at time of application):

• Pre-Nursing (Sophomore Level, leading to a Bachelor Degree of Science)
• Pre- Medicine (Junior/Senior Level, leading to a Bachelor Degree of Science)
• Pre-Dentistry (Junior/Senior Level, leading to a Bachelor Degree of Science)

Must be enrolled in the Bachelor Degree program by January 1, 2025:

• Nursing
• Environmental Health
• Engineering (Civil or Environmental - Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology)
• Clinical Laboratory Scientist
• Dental Hygiene
• Diagnostic Radiology

Must be enrolled in the Master Degree program by January 1, 2025:

• Nurse Midwife
• Social Work (LCSW)
• Nurse Practitioner
• Physician Assistant
• Occupational Therapy

Must be enrolled in the Doctoral Degree program by January 1, 2025:

• Clinical Psychology
• Dentistry
• Nurse Anesthetist
• Nurse Practitioner (DNP)
• Optometry
• Pharmacy
• Physician, Allopathy
• Physician, Osteopathy
• Physical Therapy
• Podiatry

Duties include:

• Gain working knowledge and experience in your chosen health profession or field with Indian Health Service during non-academic periods for up to 120 workdays per calendar year.
• Assist preceptor in daily duties in their academic field.
• Assist and prepare reports on assigned projects.
• Assist on day-to-day administrative operations by performing tasks related to their department functions.

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

Father Vincent L. Ouellette Scholarship Endowment Fund

Provides financial assistance for graduating high school students who are members of the St. Joseph’s Parish and will be pursuing a degree at a four year college or university. 

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Scholarships

The mission of the Marshfield Area Community Foundation is “Connecting people who care with causes that matter to enrich the quality of life in the Marshfield area”. Education is a valuable tool and a cause that matters to all of us. Through assisting students with financial support to receive an education, not only do students and the families of those students benefit, but also our community benefits, which further allows us to achieve our mission of enriching the quality of life in the Marshfield area.

Geographical Area

The official geographic service area of Marshfield Area Community Foundation, Inc., beginning to our west and traveling clockwise, includes the following communities in addition to Marshfield (It also includes towns and rural areas between these communities.): Chili, Granton, Neillsville, Loyal, Greenwood, Withee, Owen, Spencer, Unity, Colby, Curtiss, Pittsville, Abbotsford, Dorchester, Stetsonville, Medford, Stratford, Rozellville, Hewitt, Auburndale, Blenker, Milladore, Sherry, Arpin.

Dennis E. Bangart Agricultural Scholarship

This scholarship is for students in the Marshfield Community Foundation Service Area, must be a fulltime student with dairy science as the area of study. Preference to incoming college freshman and to those who participated in 4H, FFA, Junior Holstein. Student financial need is considered.

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

Bernadette Reider Scholarship Fund

Provides scholarships to students from Marquette County who are entering into a college educational program in the field of nursing. Applicants will also be judged by financial need.

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

The Diane and Jeff Johnson Scholarship, established by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports Goshen residents pursuing higher education. With an average award of $3,500, this scholarship aims to ease the financial burden of education, allowing recipients to focus on their academic goals. Importantly, academic excellence is not a criterion for selection, ensuring accessibility for all qualified applicants. This initiative reflects NCCF's commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Northwest Connecticut through educational support.

The Torrington UNICO Scholarships, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, provide financial assistance to students in Northwest CT pursuing higher education. Available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents in the service area, these scholarships cater to graduating seniors and college students with various eligibility criteria. With over half a million dollars awarded, the foundation aims to enhance the educational opportunities for local students, reflecting its commitment to community support and development.

Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians is a sovereign nation and has three main branches of government – Judicial, Executive, and Legislative. One of our most important resources is our people.

Education

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz seeks to provide opportunities for Tribal members to reach potential, establish independence and improve quality of life through lifelong learning and education.

Pepsi – Craig Whitehead Scholarship

Pepsi, Inc. donates scholarship funds to the Siletz Tribe and has asked that this be the Pepsi-Craig Whitehead Scholarship in honor of Craig Whitehead, Tribal member and Pow-Wow Coordinator at the time of his death in 2004.

Craig was also the Tribal Whip Man for Pow-Wows, coordinated a dance troupe that visited schools and was the Peace Keeper for the Citizen’s Advisory Board (CAB). He was a dear friend and loved by all who knew him.

This scholarship is open to any field of study.

The Charter Fund: Seed Funding program supports nonprofit organizations operating high-performing public charter schools that aim to expand their reach by serving 250 to 1,000 additional students within two years. Eligible applicants must demonstrate proven leadership, strong academic performance, and a commitment to underserved communities. The fund offers general operating grants ranging from $250,000 to $600,000 to assist leaders in opening new schools, providing vital resources and cohort-based learning opportunities to foster growth and innovation.

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

Greater Seattle (WA) Chapter of The Links, Supplemental Scholarship

The Greater Seattle (WA) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated was established in 1955 with a commitment to enriching, sustaining, and ensuring the identities, culture, and economic survival of African-Americans and persons of African descent. The Supplemental Support Scholarship is for college students in need of tuition assistance or who have basic or urgent need for financial support.

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

Greater Seattle (WA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated Scholarship

The Greater Seattle (WA) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated was established in 1955 with a commitment to enriching, sustaining, and ensuring the identities, culture, and economic survival of African-Americans and persons of African descent. Scholarships will be awarded to qualified high school seniors who reside in King, Snohomish, Kitsap, Clallum and Jefferson counties; are U.S. citizens, preference given to students of African American descent; and demonstrate exemplary leadership in their family, school, and the African American Community. Scholarship awards up to $15,000.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

David E. Knox Memorial Nursing Fellowship Fund

The David E. Knox Memorial Nursing Fellowship was established to support outstanding candidates in the pursuit of registered nursing degrees and service to small Alaskan communities. The fellowship honors the memory of David Knox, who moved to Alaska in 1973 to pursue a career in surgical nursing after serving in the Army as a surgical technician in Vietnam. Starting his work in Sitka in the Public Health Service surgical unit, Knox soon earned his R.N. degree through UAA. After 10 years with PHS, he was hired to coordinate the surgical unit at Sitka Community Hospital. He brought a high level of leadership and expertise to Sitka’s surgical unit, helping it become one of Alaska’s leading rural health units.

The new surgical suite at SCH was dedicated in his honor and a plaque was erected that reads “a beloved husband, father, mentor, and friend who selflessly served his community, patients, family, and friends.”

Ideal fellowship candidates will embody the same nurturing compassion, detailed organization, high technical standards, and devotion to healthcare for which David was known.

The Charter Fund: Scale Funding supports nonprofit organizations that operate high-performing public charter schools. It seeks leaders dedicated to expanding their impact, aiming to serve an additional 1,000+ students over the next 3-5 years. The fund offers grants and low-interest loans starting from $750,000, alongside strategic partnerships and community-building initiatives to help schools navigate growth challenges, enhance educational quality, and foster collaboration among charter leaders.

Robin V. Jensen Memorial Scholarship Fund

Robin Virginia Jensen was born on January 9, 1986, in Corvallis, Oregon to Ronald and Deborah Jensen. She was an honor roll student at Crescent Valley High School, where she excelled in volleyball, track and field, and swimming. Robin worked as a lifeguard at Osborn Aquatic center, and in her free-time enjoyed riding her bike. Robin started taking classes at Oregon State University the summer after she graduated from Crescent Valley and was enrolled to begin full-time studies at OSU in the fall. She planned to pursue a degree in forensic science and dreamed of a career in criminal justice. She had been a cadet for three years at the Corvallis Police Department.

On the evening of August 10, 2004, Robin was riding her bicycle home from work and was struck by a car. She died the next day at age 18.

Robin’s mother, Debbie Jensen, helped organize the annual Ride of Silence in Robin’s memory. The event is a silent bike ride through Corvallis meant to honor cyclists who have been killed or injured by motorists. In 2006, Robin’s parents created this scholarship fund to further honor the memory of their daughter. The scholarship provides tuition for a Benton County high school student pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree at an institution of higher education with an emphasis in Forensic Science or Criminal Justice. It also benefits the City of Corvallis Police Cadet program and supports bicycle safety programs in Benton County.

This scholarship is renewable.

The Botany and Beyond: PLANTS III program, funded by the National Science Foundation and the Botanical Society of America, aims to support diverse undergraduate scholars attending the 2025 Botany conference. Participants will engage in immersive mentoring, scientific talks, workshops, and networking opportunities while exploring various botanical fields. With full funding for travel and accommodations, this program fosters an inclusive environment for budding botanists, encouraging professional development in a supportive community.

Arizona Community Foundation

For more than four decades, the Arizona Community Foundation has worked in tandem with generous individuals, families, and organizations to address some of the biggest challenges facing our state.

Scholarships

In partnership with our generous donors, we award millions of dollars annually to help students achieve their educational goals. Through our online system, students complete one application and are matched with available scholarships, based on their eligibility requirements.

The Leslie Scholarship Fund 

The Leslie Scholarship Fund will benefit students entering or in a four-year nursing program.