Best Grants for Charities in District of Columbia

The Residential Curbside Recycling Cart Grant Program, offered by The Recycling Partnership, supports communities in enhancing their recycling efforts through grant funding and technical assistance. It encourages the implementation of cart-based recycling systems, conversion from bins to carts, and expansion of service areas to ensure equitable access. This initiative also includes vital education and outreach support, helping residents improve their recycling habits and ultimately achieve higher recycling rates.

The NANFA Conservation Research Grant, offered by the North American Native Fishes Association, supports research focused on conserving North America's indigenous fish species, particularly those that are threatened or endangered. With a maximum funding of $1,000 per proposal, this grant is open to academia, conservation groups, and independent researchers. Since 2001, NANFA has aimed to enhance knowledge about native fishes and promote their conservation through scientific research and community engagement.

QBE Foundation Inc.

The QBE Foundation’s focus is on creating strong, resilient and inclusive communities. We work in partnership with community organizations, working in climate resilience and inclusion – two areas where we believe we can have the greatest impact.

The QBE Foundation is one component that reflects our company’s focus, involvement, and investment in the neighborhoods where we do business, and where our employees live and work. The QBE Foundation also empowers our employees to volunteer with colleagues and community partners to make a difference for those in need. Employees can also coordinate fundraisers that are matched by the foundation.

QBE Foundation Local Grant Program

This program supports high-impact, community-based initiatives aligned to our focus on climate resilience and inclusion.

• Climate Resilience:
  • Helping communities prepare for, adapt to, and recover from climate-related risks, including preparedness, financial resilience, and risk reduction solutions.
• Inclusion:
  • Expanding access to opportunity for underserved communities through economic inclusion, workforce pathways, and removing systemic barriers.

Multiple grants of $30,000 will be awarded across our two focus areas.

The NIAID SBIR Phase II Clinical Trial Implementation Cooperative Agreement (U44) invites small businesses to submit applications for investigator-initiated clinical trials. This program particularly supports high-risk, hypothesis-driven studies that may involve non-routine interventions or unlicensed products. Letters of Intent are encouraged and due 30 days prior to the full proposal deadline. All applications must be submitted by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.

The SAF Technology Transfer Award honors exceptional contributions to technology transfer in forestry by an SAF member. It recognizes leaders who have significantly impacted forestry practices through innovation and quality work. The award includes a $1,000 honorarium, complimentary registration for the SAF convention, and up to $500 for travel costs. Presented at the SAF national convention, it emphasizes the importance of effective technology transfer for sustainable forest management.

About

Building a community of journalists committed to better health care reporting.

We believe accurate, contextual and balanced health care reporting is more important than ever.

People depend on health care stories to make life-altering decisions every day.

AHCJ U.S. Health System Reporting Fellowship

This opportunity is for U.S.-based journalists.

Issues with the U.S. health care system are often obvious — from large swaths of uninsured residents and junk insurance plans, to high maternal mortality rates and preventable medical errors. But what is at the root of issues like these? What could an equitable health care system look like? 

Through the U.S. Health System Reporting Fellowship, supported by The Commonwealth Fund, you can pursue a significant reporting project related to the U.S. health care system at the local, regional and/or national level.

This fellowship allows mid-career journalists to maintain their regular employment while working on a major project over a 12-month calendar year. You’ll pursue the projects with the support of your newsrooms or arranged outlets, which commit to publish or air the work.

We believe that issues of health equity impact every facet of the health care system, which is why we’re specifically interested in projects focused on health equity. This might include racial disparities within a community, gaps in public health inclusion, unstable housing, insurance access, food insecurity, violence as a health issue, how health care institutions or systems are applying a racial equity lens to their policies and practices or otherwise addressing inequities or disparities, or other examinations of systemic problems that have become so apparent over the last few years.

Guidance is provided by AHCJ mentors through customized seminars on health care systems, conference calls and email consultations. The fellowship covers the cost of attending the seminars and the annual AHCJ conference, as well as a $2,500 project allowance to defray the cost of field reporting, health data analysis and other project-related research. In addition, you will receive a $5,000 fellowship award upon the successful completion of the project.

About

Building a community of journalists committed to better health care reporting.

We believe accurate, contextual and balanced health care reporting is more important than ever.

People depend on health care stories to make life-altering decisions every day.

Awards, Grants, & Fellowships

Ambitious freelancers who want to tackle an in-depth reporting project often find that the fee from a potential publisher doesn’t come close to covering their costs and time. Grants and fellowships can fill that gap, but freelancers have to know about them in order to apply. In this section, the Freelance Center is compiling a list of non-AHCJ grants, fellowships and awards (for when the hard work is done).

Sunshine Award

Presented by AHCJ’s Right-to-Know Committee

AHCJ’s Right-to-Know Committee established the Sunshine Award at Health Journalism 2026 as a way to elevate the work of journalists like STAT’s Bob Herman who fight for government transparency. We plan to continue this tradition annually from now on. Award winners receive free registration and a one-night hotel stay for our annual conference, a free year of AHCJ membership, a trophy and a certificate.

About NABT

Since its establishment in 1938, the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT) has been the recognized "leader in life science education." Thousands of educators have joined NABT to share experiences and expertise with colleagues from around the globe; keep up with trends and developments in the field; and grow professionally.

NABT Mission

The National Association of Biology Teachers empowers educators to provide the best possible biology and life science education for all students.

Climate Education Action Award

Sponsored by NCSE, this award recognizes excellence in classroom/community education that specifically supports and promotes the accurate and robust teaching of climate science and the impact of the changing climate on society beyond the classroom. This award is presented to K-12 teachers in odd-numbered years and undergraduate and/or informal educators in even-numbered years. NCSE’s sponsorship of this award includes a $1,000 honorarium. The recipient also receives a recognition plaque to be presented at the NABT Professional Development Conference and one year of complimentary membership to NABT.

The BJA FY 2026 Second Chance Act aims to enhance education and employment opportunities for adults and youth transitioning from incarceration. By funding state, local, and tribal governments, as well as community organizations, this initiative seeks to improve academic and vocational training in prisons. The program focuses on developing marketable skills, leveraging technology, and aligning with local job markets to foster job readiness, improve employment outcomes, and reduce recidivism.

The NIAMS Clinical Trial Implementation Cooperative Agreement (UG3/UH3) invites applications for the execution of investigator-initiated, interventional clinical trials across various phases. This program supports researchers in finalizing preparations necessary for trial initiation, including IRB establishment and staffing. Successful UG3 projects may transition to the UH3 phase, emphasizing the need for hypothesis-driven studies with significant clinical impact within NIAMS's research mission.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Irene & Marie Oberweis Nursing Scholarship Endowment Fund

This scholarship was created by Marie Oberweis as a loving tribute to her sister Irene.

Marie Oberweis (1921-2007) graduated from Madonna High School in 1939.

That year, she started her career with Oberweis Dairy where she later became a partner with her father Peter Oberweis and her brother Joseph Oberweis.

Irene Oberweis (1924-1996) attended Annunciation School in Aurora. She spent many years of her life in hospitals due to fragile health.

In gratitude for the exemplary care her sister received throughout her lifetime from those in the nursing profession, Marie Oberweis created a permanent scholarship fund to support area students entering the nursing field.

Siemens Healthineers USA offers sponsorships to support healthcare initiatives across the U.S. They emphasize funding for healthcare organizations and related events, ensuring that requests comply with eligibility criteria. The company prioritizes diagnostic imaging, laboratory diagnostics, cardiology, and oncology. Applications must be submitted at least 45 days prior to the event, and funding is not available for sole sponsorships or certain excluded initiatives. For more information, visit Siemens Healthineers' official site.

The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) is inviting applications for the Clinical Trial Cooperative Agreement Program. This funding opportunity supports investigator-initiated, interventional clinical trials at various phases. Initial funding will facilitate the preparation needed to start trials, with successful milestones leading to further support. NIAMS emphasizes hypothesis-driven trials that promise significant clinical impact within its research mission.

The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) is launching a funding opportunity for Exploratory Clinical Trials Grants. This program aims to support innovative clinical trials that enhance the understanding and treatment of arthritis and other musculoskeletal and skin conditions. Research proposals should focus on early-stage trials, including first-in-human studies, dose-finding, and biomarker evaluation. The initiative encourages the translation of promising laboratory findings into effective clinical practices, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

The Eastern Bird Banding Association is offering the Memorial Fund Research Grants to support research utilizing avian marking techniques, such as banding. Applicants must submit a detailed project proposal, including significance and budget, alongside their background in ornithology. Grants are open to all, particularly encouraging student applications, with no lifetime award limit per individual. Projects must focus on species within EBBA territory, ensuring marking techniques are integral to the research.

The Mentored Quantitative Research Development Award (K25) aims to engage skilled professionals in NIH-relevant research, enhancing their expertise in addressing health-related issues. This award supports individuals with backgrounds in quantitative sciences and engineering, providing them with dedicated time for supervised research and study. Key application deadlines span from June 2024 to February 2027, emphasizing the program's commitment to fostering innovative research in health and disease.

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is funding research to enhance drug susceptibility testing (DST) for mycobacteria. This initiative aims to improve testing for tuberculosis (TB) and non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections, which are on the rise. Current methods are slow and ineffective against drug-resistant strains, making rapid DSTs essential for effective treatment and reducing transmission rates. Innovative approaches, including rapid genotypic and phenotypic methods, will be supported to address these challenges.

The National Institute of Mental Health is inviting research applications for the AIDS Research Center program, which includes Developmental Centers and full Research Centers. This initiative aims to enhance interdisciplinary HIV/AIDS research through collaboration and innovative approaches across various scientific domains. The program emphasizes alignment with national strategies and encourages applications from teams skilled in fostering partnerships with diverse stakeholders. Although applications are currently not being solicited, this notice allows potential applicants time to prepare strong proposals.

The Tribal Transportation Safety Strategy Pilot Program, funded by the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology, aims to address high traffic fatality rates among American Indian and Alaska Native populations. With a $2 million budget over three years, the program will create a university-led consortium to develop a strategic safety plan using artificial intelligence for risk analysis, culminating in a pilot project that showcases effective safety infrastructure in a Tribal community.

Stanislaus Community Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students in order to help them achieve their educational and career goals. We believe that by investing in our students, we are investing in a brighter future for Stanislaus. 

Delta Kappa Gamma Scholarship Fund

Applicants must be students currently enrolled in a teaching credential program, current student teachers, current teacher interns, students enrolled in a speech therapy program, or students enrolled in a school psychology program. Colleges considered: CSU Stanislaus, U.C. Merced, U.O.P., UMass Global, Teachers College of San Joaquin, Sacramento State University and CSU East Bay.

Award Amount:

• $3,000

The Harry Kramer Memorial Fund Grant supports U.S. charitable organizations that assist individuals and institutions in Israel, focusing on welfare, healthcare for the sick and aged, and education in South Florida. Founded by Harry A. Kramer, a successful entrepreneur and veteran, the fund reflects his deep commitment to charitable causes. Organizations must qualify under Section 501(c)(3) and meet specific eligibility criteria to apply for funding, ensuring that aid reaches those in need.

The Implementing Zero Suicide in Health Systems program aims to enhance suicide prevention efforts for adults within health systems. Funded by the US HHS's Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), this initiative employs a comprehensive approach that incorporates all seven elements of the Zero Suicide framework: Lead, Train, Identify, Engage, Treat, Transition, and Improve. This program seeks to create safer health environments and reduce suicide rates effectively.

Troutville Volunteer Fire Department Scholarship Fund

Fund provides higher educational scholarship assistance to deserving students.

Amount

• $1,000+
• non-renewable

The FY2026 Cooperative Agreement for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Administrator aims to enhance and manage the 988 Lifeline, connecting individuals in crisis through various communication methods to a network of certified crisis centers. This initiative seeks to link people with vital emergency, behavioral health, and social services, providing essential support to those in need. The program is funded by the US HHS's Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), emphasizing mental health resources and accessibility.

McCormick & Company, Inc. actively supports charitable contributions through its Charitable Donations Committee (CDC), which prioritizes donations to non-profit organizations that enhance education, health, environment, and culture. The CDC focuses on organizations that benefit communities where McCormick employees live and work, ensuring a positive impact. Eligible groups must be tax-exempt and demonstrate a commitment to non-discrimination. However, donations are not made to individuals, political organizations, or entities that conflict with corporate values.

The Store-Based Giving Program by Ross Stores Foundation supports socioeconomically disadvantaged youth by providing gift cards for school or professional clothing. Organizations must be federal tax-exempt and serve at least 60% low-income youth. Eligible programs include academic achievement and life skills initiatives. Award amounts typically range from $300 to $500, depending on budget and mission alignment. Applications are not accepted from organizations that have received donations within the past 12 months.

Generally the Community Foundation's scholarships are awarded to applicants who have high financial need. Applicants with household income exceeding $100,000 are less likely to be awarded, but applying will allow you to be considered for targeted scholarships.

Virginia Valk Fehsenfeld Scholarship

Open to full time undergraduate students who are Kent County residents studying education, dietetics, nutrition, or human services and have a minimum 3.4 GPA.