Best Grants for Science Research in District of Columbia

District of Columbia 501(c)(3) nonprofits with innovative approaches to human and social services, health, environment, or related fields can access funding through the Creag Foundation to tackle pressing social problems. Organizations with at least one year of 501(c)(3) status, including those conducting science-related research within these areas, may submit a letter of inquiry for invitation-only opportunities.

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

Nonprofits and NGOs worldwide using technology to tackle crisis response, education access, economic empowerment, or climate resilience, including those in District of Columbia, can apply for Global Impact Cash Grants up to US $100,000. Cisco Systems Foundation supports innovative, early-stage programs serving predominantly economically underserved communities, with applications accepted year-round via an initial LOI.

Educational institutions, government programs, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and 501(c)(4) volunteer fire companies in the District of Columbia can receive funding for safety, education, and community development initiatives. State Farm Companies Foundation supports projects such as K–12 STEM, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, job training, and community revitalization that may complement science-related work.

Large, U.S.-based 501(c)(3) cultural institutions conducting arts or science programming can seek more than US $100,000 for program, capital, or limited general support from the William Randolph Hearst Foundation. Organizations in the District of Columbia doing STEM or STEAM-related science education or museum work may be especially competitive if they reach broad audiences and demonstrate lasting impact.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits with audited expenses over $2 million can apply for more than US $100,000 to support social service programs promoting economic independence and stronger families, including in the District of Columbia. Grants from William Randolph Hearst Foundation may benefit organizations whose research or programs intersect with issues like poverty, housing, food access, or workforce development.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations working in health, education, or community services, including those in the District of Columbia, can apply for Labcorp Charitable Foundation support to expand equitable care and education. Funding may back healthcare access for underserved populations, food pantries, STEM education, and research or screening that supports healthy lifestyles and related science initiatives.

Organizations working on education, child health, or family economic stability for urban low-income youth in the District of Columbia and beyond can seek project or scaling support of more than US $50,000. Focused on measurable impact, the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation funds eligible U.S., India, and South Africa entities that meet its mission and values criteria.

Science-focused 501(c)(3) organizations in the District of Columbia can apply for grants supporting charitable, scientific, medical, and educational work, with funds used in the U.S. Focused on broad-impact, well-managed programs, the Sidney Stern Memorial Trust supports tax-exempt organizations whose projects significantly benefit their target populations and general welfare.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in the District of Columbia seeking support for community-focused programs can apply for sponsorship funding to advance economic mobility and social progress. With a mission to strengthen communities, Bank of America Charitable Foundation provides support for housing, workforce development, basic needs, arts and culture, environmental initiatives, and diversity and inclusion efforts that may complement science-related community outreach.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations near a TJX location in the District of Columbia can apply for TJX Foundation grants to support basic needs, youth enrichment, workforce readiness, and safety from domestic violence. Science-focused nonprofits that also serve vulnerable children and families may be eligible if they meet the mission and distance requirements.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and libraries can seek $5,000 - $10,000 in unrestricted operating or program support for environmental and human services work from the Lawrence Foundation. Focused on environmental and related research or conservation, the foundation invites organizations, including those in the District of Columbia, to apply for flexible funding within its priorities.

Nonprofit organizations across the U.S., including those in District of Columbia, can seek funding for community-based programs, cultural institutions, education, health facilities, environmental efforts, and services for youth, seniors, and people with disabilities. Grants from Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation typically range from US $1,000 - US $20,000 and may support science-related education or conservation initiatives.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Academic surgeons conducting clinical or translational otology/neurotology research on auditory or vestibular disorders can receive up to US $25,000 in support, including those based in the District of Columbia. The American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery Foundation and the American Neurotology Society fund early-career investigators to build toward larger NIH or comparable research proposals.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on basic needs, community development, or volunteer-driven causes, including those serving District of Columbia, can apply for Ameriprise Financial Community Grants to support programmatic work. Funding priorities include hunger relief, shelter and supportive housing, adult self-sufficiency, neighborhood revitalization, small business support, and cultural enrichment such as arts education and access.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations conducting education, health, environmental, or related science programs in the District of Columbia can seek project funding through the Dr Scholl Foundation. Grants of US $5,000 - US $25,000 support one-year initiatives, with applications accepted annually between October 1 and March 1.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations conducting education or science-related programs in the District of Columbia can apply for Hansen Family Foundation grants of US $1,000 - US $10,000. Grants from Hansen Family Foundation help support work in education, youth services, environmental conservation, and related research-focused initiatives that advance “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

Science, conservation, education, and wellness nonprofits in the U.S., including those in District of Columbia, can apply for the Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation’s Storytelling Grant, with awards of more than US $50,000 to share their impact. Organizations working in wildlife conservation may be especially eligible, along with groups in preservation, education, or wellness.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits improving economic stability, health, workforce readiness, or disaster relief in communities with an O’Reilly Auto Parts presence can apply for the O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant. Eligible organizations in District of Columbia may receive project, general operating, or capital support for programs serving underserved and underrepresented individuals and families.

District of Columbia nonprofits supporting youth education, housing, hunger relief, or environmental stewardship can access funding through Chick Fil A Foundation’s True Inspiration Awards. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations may receive US $30,000 - US $350,000 for programs serving underserved young people and their families, including food security, community services, and environmental education projects.

Nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that lead strong cross-sector community partnerships can apply for recognition and support through the Community Partnership Award, including those in the District of Columbia. With a mission to honor impactful collaborations, Mutual of America Foundation highlights scalable, replicable initiatives addressing significant social issues nationwide.

Nonprofit organizations helping disadvantaged people become self-reliant can seek funding for social services, poverty alleviation, disability support, or disaster relief work, including in the District of Columbia. Gupta Family Foundation offers US $5,000 - US $250,000 to smaller 501(c)(3)s or qualifying foreign entities with efficient, non-sectarian operations in selected countries.