Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in District of Columbia

The NBRC Frederic Helmholz, Jr., MD Educational Research Fund, established by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, supports educational and credentialing research in respiratory care. With an endowment of up to $5,000, this fund encourages submissions of Master’s Theses, Doctoral Dissertations, and complete research proposals from qualified investigators. Award recipients will receive cash, a certificate of recognition, airfare, lodging, and registration for the AARC Congress, promoting advancements in respiratory health.

The Jeri Eiserman, RRT Professional Education Research Fellowship, funded by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, supports innovative research in respiratory care and airway management. This fellowship honors Jeri Eiserman's contributions to the field and includes awards for high-quality abstracts presented at the AARC Congress. Selected fellows receive a plaque, travel expenses, and registration, promoting advancements in respiratory health through research and education.

Mission and Vision

The Mission of the Foundation is to improve the quality of life in the Coastal Bend by building community endowment and addressing social, educational, environmental, and cultural needs through the awarding of grants and scholarships.

The Foundation’s Vision is to provide the Coastal Bend with:

• Efficient gift options to meet donors’ charitable wishes
• Effective grants to charitable organizations and scholarships to students
• Ethical leadership to promote and enhance area philanthropy

Scholarships

The CBCF scholarship is open each year. Scholarships awarded will be for the following academic year. Scholarships are available only to students who graduated from a high school in one of the counties in the CBCF Service Area: Aransas, Bee, Jim Wells, Kleberg, Nueces, Refugio and San Patricio. Thanks to our generous donors, the Coastal Bend Community Foundation (CBCF) offers scholarships to students from over 100 funds.

Nueces County Junior Livestock Show Scholarships

This scholarship is open to any active member of a Nueces County FFA or FCCLA chapter or 4-H club who will graduate this academic year and has actively participated in the Nueces County Junior Livestock Show for at least two of his/her high school years.

College Attendance Requirements: It is mandatory that the scholarship winner attend a college, university or certified vocational trade school the fall semester immediately following selection and use the scholarship funds beginning that semester. Only with special permission from the Nueces County Junior Livestock Show Scholarship Committee may the use of the scholarship be deferred one year.

Criteria used in selecting scholarship recipients will include: (1) Stock show participation (2) FFA, FCCLA or 4-H participation (3) Academic achievement (4) College Exams and (5) Interview.

Through the generosity of fundholders and donors, NCCF has awarded more than half a million dollars in scholarships to assist students in Northwest Connecticut with the cost of higher education.

NCCF awards more than $530,000 in scholarships a year. 

Patrick Dillon Scholarship

Academic Focus:

• Unspecified 

Award:

• $750

Established by the Dillon Family, this scholarship is awarded to a student whose primary residence is in Torrington, is either a first-generation immigrant to the United States or is the child of a first-generation immigrant, and who attends, or will attend, an accredited university or college. This scholarship is not financially need-based. (No FAFSA required)

The William F. Miller, MD Postgraduate Education Recognition Award, offered by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, provides up to $5,000 to support respiratory therapists pursuing advanced degrees. Established in 1992, this award aims to foster education and professional growth in respiratory care. Recipients also receive recognition, airfare, lodging, and congress registration. Eligible applicants must meet specific educational and recommendation requirements, ensuring that deserving candidates are selected for this prestigious award.

Through the generosity of fundholders and donors, NCCF has awarded more than half a million dollars in scholarships to assist students in Northwest Connecticut with the cost of higher education.

NCCF awards more than $530,000 in scholarships a year. 

Donald E. Heisinger Scholarship

Academic Focus:

• Accounting, Finance, or Business

Award:

• $750

Established by the Dillon Family, this scholarship is awarded to a student whose primary residence is in Torrington and who pursues, or intends to pursue, a degree in accounting, finance, or business at an accredited university or college. This scholarship is not financially need-based. (No FAFSA required)

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

The Don Carano Legacy Scholarship

The Don Carano Legacy Scholarship was established to provide support for dependents of Caesars Entertainment Team Members who are a graduating high school senior or who are enrolled in a college or advanced learning program. The qualifying Team Member must be a Management Grade 14 or below, have minimum two (2) years of full-time service with the company, and be in good standing with no written discipline at the time of application.

Awards will be a fixed amount of $5,000; recipients may reapply for up to three (3) additional years. Scholarship awards will be distributed to any college, university, trade school, or degree-granting program for the student's benefit upon confirmation of enrollment, and upon completing and signing a scholarship acceptance agreement.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

The Davis Fire Appreciation Scholarship

The Davis Fire Appreciation Scholarship honors the brave firefighters and law enforcement officers who safeguarded our Nevada communities by supporting their family members' pursuit of higher education.

The Davis Fire Appreciation Scholarship was established by the residents of the Montreux, Arrowcreek, Saddlehorn, and surrounding communities to demonstrate deep appreciation for the firefighters and law enforcement officers who worked tirelessly to hold the fire line during the September 2024 Davis Fire and saved their homes.

The Davis Fire Appreciation Family Scholarships are offered to family members of Nevada firefighters and/or family members of law enforcement who are seeking a 2- or 4-year degree, trade school, or vocational certificate. This is a one-time award of $3,000.

The Grey Muzzle Organization offers grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 to improve the lives of at-risk senior dogs across the U.S. Since 2008, they have awarded over $2.5 million to shelters and nonprofits focused on senior dog welfare. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations and demonstrate measurable outcomes. The initiative aims to ensure that every senior dog thrives, providing support for foster care, hospice services, and adoption programs.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Edward Arciniega Scholarship

For graduating seniors from Churchill County High School, Charter School, or from a Churchill County Home-school program, intending to study at a 2-4 year college, having studied a foreign language for at least 4 years. This is a single year award for students who have at least four years of study in a language other than English in grades 6-12, and who have demonstrated an aptitude for language and academic accomplishment. This is a one-time award of up to $1,000.

The ASNT Foundation's Faculty Grant aims to enhance nondestructive testing (NDT) education at US universities and colleges. By providing $10,000 in funding, this grant supports faculty in revising or developing NDT curricula. Recipients who are not ASNT members receive a complimentary one-year membership. The initiative focuses on improving educational quality in the NDT field, ensuring students receive top-notch instruction, thus paving the way for successful careers in nondestructive testing.

Success Scholarship (NCF)

Provides scholarships to students in Council Rock School District who have received Emotional Support services during their school years.

APA Foundation

The mission of the APA Foundation is to advance the art and science of planning through philanthropic activities that provide access to educational opportunities, enrich the public dialogue about planning, and advance social equity in the profession and our communities.

APA Scholarships

The APA Foundation scholarships aim to make the planning profession more accessible to individuals with limited financial means and to attract the best, brightest, and most talented individuals to the field of planning.

These scholarships are intended for students who demonstrate academic merit, a commitment to the field of planning, and financial need. The expanded eligibility includes students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate planning‑related programs at accredited U.S. institutions, reflecting the Foundation’s commitment to broadening access to the profession and strengthening its impact on communities nationwide.

APA Foundation Environmental Scholarship

This scholarship supports students pursuing planning degrees with a focus on environmental or conservation planning. It reflects a commitment to advancing wildlife and environmental conservation through the planning profession and to supporting future planners dedicated to protecting natural resources and sustainable environments. Awards are given to students currently enrolled in degree programs in planning.

Ryan Lesher Student Athlete Memorial Scholarship (NCF)

Provides scholarships to Council Rock South and North High Schools for students who participated in multiple sports and maintained a GPA over 3.0.

The Mission Program Grants: New Worshiping Communities Seed Grant offers up to $10,000 to support the establishment of new worshiping communities connected to the Presbyterian Church (USA). These grants focus on covering initial operational costs for the first year, including salaries and educational materials. Eligible applicants must be newly formed communities established after July 2010, located in the U.S. or Puerto Rico. This initiative fosters community growth rather than expanding existing congregations.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of all communities in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas by investing and serving as a catalyst for ideas, partnerships, medical education, research and programs. The Foundation defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, spiritual and social well-being.

Beverly Joyce White Memorial Scholarship for Hospice Nursing Staff

The scholarship is awarded to hospice nursing staff who are pursuing a certification in hospice palliative care or other related education offerings.

About Community Foundation of South Alabama

Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama, improving the lives of many residents in our corner of the world.

We amplify the gifts from generous donors through wise investment, support others in efforts to enhance our community, and lead and collaborate on initiatives which have a broad impact.

Scholarships

The more than 40 scholarship funds at the Foundation were created by generous donors who wanted to help the students in our community achieve a brighter future. We are committed to assisting the most promising students with scholarships for professional certificate programs, two and four-year undergraduate degrees and graduate school. The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, books, and fees.

Partners for Environmental Progress (PEP) Scholarship

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria: be an owner, employee or dependent of an owner or employee of the local branch/site of a company whose membership in PEP is in good standing at the time of the application, selection & awarding of the scholarship to the applicant. Applicants must currently be enrolled at the time of the application as a full or part-time student in a two year or four year accredited technical college, or university for secondary or post-secondary work and have a minimum 3.0 GPA with a declared course of study and major in one of the following: environmental science, environmental planning, environmental engineering, or other related science fields of study, including, but not limited to, all engineering fields, marine science, geoscience, fisheries science, forestry, and estuarine science and management.

The Foundation for Physical Therapy Research aims to enhance public health through funding innovative research in physical therapy. With a mission to optimize movement and improve societal health, it supports both emerging and established researchers. By offering grants, scholarships, and fellowships, the Foundation has created a robust pipeline of skilled researchers. Their efforts also focus on addressing health disparities and advancing evidence-based practices, ensuring a brighter future for the profession and its impact on patient care.

About Community Foundation of South Alabama

Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama, improving the lives of many residents in our corner of the world.

We amplify the gifts from generous donors through wise investment, support others in efforts to enhance our community, and lead and collaborate on initiatives which have a broad impact.

Scholarships

The more than 40 scholarship funds at the Foundation were created by generous donors who wanted to help the students in our community achieve a brighter future. We are committed to assisting the most promising students with scholarships for professional certificate programs, two and four-year undergraduate degrees and graduate school. The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, books, and fees.

Steve and Carolyn Perry Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is for an individual pursuing technical training or certification in advanced manufacturing & will support both career training and career advancement training. The applicant must demonstrate that he or she meets the skill requirements of the training or certification program. Financial need is not required but may be taken into consideration. 

Volunteer Challenge Grants

Each year, CVS Health colleagues volunteer thousands of hours at nonprofit organizations in their communities. To help our colleagues lend even more support to the causes they care about, the CVS Health Foundation offers grants for volunteer service. Funded through the Foundation, our Volunteer Challenge Grant program supports nonprofit organizations where our colleagues donate their time, with grants ranging from $150 to $3,000. The more hours our colleagues give — starting with just 10 logged hours — the more support the nonprofit of their choice can receive from the Foundation.

Volunteer Challenge Grants are awarded on behalf of individuals who volunteer 10, 25 or 100 or more hours of service, to teams that volunteer more than 50 hours of service, and to both individuals and teams who fundraise for a charitable run, walk or ride event.

The Magistro Family Foundation Research Grant, offered by the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research, aims to enhance health through physical therapy research. With a commitment to funding innovative projects, this grant provides $200,000 for one or two years to support emerging and established researchers. The foundation focuses on addressing health disparities and advancing evidence-based practices in physical therapy, ultimately improving the quality of life for diverse communities.

A funding opportunity designed to support food security, refugee services, licensed free healthcare clinics and community development organizations in the United States.

Day of Dignity 2026

Day of Dignity creates an opportunity for caring individuals from diverse communities to provide services to their neighbors in need. The Day of Dignity mission is to promote volunteerism, build relationships, and encourage local organizations to have a transformative impact on their unique community. Bookbags, school kits, jackets, and hygiene kits are some of the in-kind items provided by IRUSA to be distributed during Day of Dignity events. A grant is also given to help support the costs of food, entertainment, venue, etc. Free medical care, screenings, and even barber services can be offered out by the host organization at the event. The host organization is responsible for accommodating their community’s needs and reaching out to different services and vendors. The day is an effort to provide basic living essentials, medical care, and connect those in need to support services available to them in the long term.

The PVA Education Foundation Grant Program, offered by the Paralyzed Veterans of America, supports innovative projects aimed at improving the lives of individuals with spinal cord injury and disease (SCI/D). Grants of up to $75,000 are available for initiatives in consumer education, professional development for healthcare providers, and research translation. This funding enables the development of essential educational tools and resources to enhance health, independence, and quality of life for the SCI/D community.

Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. 

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Northern Nevada’s Scholarship Program is intended to help students cover the ever-increasing cost of tuition. Some of our scholarships are based on financial need, but others represent an award for achievement. These scholarships typically go to students who have excelled in an academic area or have shown they can balance academics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. There are also scholarships designated for students who have overcome adversity, students pursuing degrees in high-need areas, and adult learners outside the traditional college age group. Community Foundation scholarships can help cover tuition, books, and on-campus housing.

Reno Central Rotary Scholarship

Annually, the Reno Rotary club offers four-year college scholarships to graduating seniors from Hug, Wooster, or the AACT Culinary Academy.

The Reno Central Rotary Scholarship is a one-time $1,500 award, with the opportunity for the scholarship to be renewed with reapplication.

South Dakota Community Foundation

As a statewide community foundation, we work with donors, nonprofits and community leaders to strengthen philanthropy in South Dakota every day.

Scholarships

At South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF), we proudly manage more than 350 scholarship funds in partnership with generous donors who are committed to supporting students. These scholarships offer countless opportunities to help ease the financial burden of continuing their education.

Josie A. Stewart Scholarship

To provide financial support to graduates of Perkins County and Corson County high schools.

The Josie A. Stewart Scholarship Fund was established in 2000 by the Stewart family to recognize outstanding students from Lemmon High School and honor Josie as a prominent educator in the community. For over 34 years, Josie taught, influenced, and impacted the lives of scores of students in the Lemmon area. Her passion for education followed many of her students after high school by quietly providing them with financial assistance for their college education. In 2015, the Stewart family expanded the scholarship to welcome applicants from Corson and Perkins Counties, extending the reach of Josie’s legacy as a champion of education.

The Jimmy A. Young Memorial Education Recognition Award, offered by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, honors contributions to respiratory care education. Up to $1,000 is available for students enrolled in accredited respiratory care programs, provided they meet GPA requirements and submit necessary recommendations. This award includes a certificate, airfare, lodging, and registration for the AARC Congress, aiming to support deserving candidates in their educational pursuits.

The Morton B. Duggan, Jr. Memorial Education Recognition Award, provided by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, honors a student enrolled in an accredited respiratory care program. This award, which can reach up to $1,000, includes a certificate of recognition, travel expenses, and registration for AARC Congress. Eligible applicants must verify their enrollment and GPA, and provide letters of recommendation. Preference is given to candidates from Georgia and South Carolina.