Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in District of Columbia

About Us

Alpha Omega Alpha, founded in 1902, is the national medical honor society. Its mission is: dedicated to the belief that in the profession of medicine we will improve care for all by:

• recognizing high educational achievement;
• honoring gifted teaching;
• encouraging the development of leaders in academia and the community;
• supporting the ideals of humanism; and
• promoting service to others.

Medical Student Service Leadership Project Grant

AΩA is committed to preparing future leaders in medicine and health care. Leadership is about making a positive difference and can be developed through education, observation, experience, and by working with leader mentors. Service learning provides excellent opportunities for students to develop as servant leaders. Only one team from each school may be nominated.The Grant

The grant is a $9,000, two-year grant – $5,000 the first year, and $4,000 the second year. The grant will be paid to the sponsoring institution. 

The Rise for Education Grant Program offers funding for hydroponic classroom gardens that enhance STEM education and nutrition. This initiative encourages hands-on learning, integrating STEM and arts through practical gardening projects. Eligible applicants include schools, homeschooling families, and educational organizations. The program fosters community building and entrepreneurship via activities like Farmer's Markets, while boosting student engagement and developing essential skills. By implementing this program, educators can create an engaging and interactive learning environment year-round.

The Economics program by the National Science Foundation supports research to enhance understanding of the U.S. economy and global systems. It prioritizes interdisciplinary studies and encourages diverse proposals, including those from junior faculty and underrepresented groups. Funding opportunities range from individual projects to doctoral dissertation improvement grants, emphasizing rigorous economic analysis and data collection. The program aims to strengthen links between economics and other disciplines, fostering innovative research in various economic subfields.

The AHRQ Health Services Research Dissertation Program (R36) provides crucial funding for doctoral candidates engaged in health services research. This program aims to support individuals in their academic pursuits, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the field of healthcare. By fostering innovative research, AHRQ enhances the quality of health services and promotes evidence-based practices. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time, ensuring timely submissions for those seeking to advance their academic careers.

The Native Plant and Wildflower Education Grant offers up to $500 for educational programs focused on native plants and wildflowers. State Garden Clubs and similar organizations can co-sponsor symposia aimed at increasing awareness and knowledge about native flora, including endangered species and habitat management. Programs should be scheduled to coincide with wildflower blooming periods, promoting public planting initiatives and the design of native gardens.

The Toor Scholarship for Strong Public-School Libraries, established by the Toor Family, honors the legacy of Jay and Ruth Toor, who advocated for state-certified librarians in every school. This scholarship supports U.S. public school librarians who create local marketing campaigns to promote their libraries as vital community resources. Each recipient receives a $1,000 stipend to attend the AASL National Conference and must present their project, contributing to the advancement of school librarianship.

The ABC-CLIO Leadership Grant supports AASL Chapters in developing leadership programs for school library associations at various levels. This grant encourages initiatives that engage new members, train current leaders, and foster collaboration among organizations. Successful applications clearly define program objectives, participant groups, and include well-structured budgets and evaluation plans. The grant aims to promote innovative leadership approaches that can be replicated by other chapters, enhancing the overall effectiveness of school libraries.

The AAO-HNSF Rande H. Lazar Health Services Research Grant offers $10,000 for one year to support research in otolaryngology. It aims to enhance participation in health services research by gathering socioeconomic data. Eligible applicants include otolaryngologists in the U.S. and Canada, including independent practitioners and residents. Projects must demonstrate clinical significance and innovation, with priority given to those that can attract further funding. Special consideration is given to research focusing on the socioeconomic impact of otolaryngology services.

The R3PEATS Grassroots Rigor Projects, funded by the NIH, aim to enhance research practices through two project types: Metascience and Laboratory Capacity-Building. Metascience projects focus on creating tools and metrics to promote high-quality research, while Laboratory Capacity-Building projects help labs adopt new techniques and share data that influence research outcomes. This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve rigor, replicability, and reproducibility in scientific research.

Robert H. Moser Essay Award

To honor the late Robert H. Moser, MD (AΩA, Georgetown University, 1969). Awarded to one outstanding essay celebrating the life of a physician like Dr. Moser who has enriched the world through his/her career in medicine.

Background

Dr. Moser organized and worked in one of the first MASH units during the Korean War. He was a pioneering flight controller for NASA during the Project Mercury and Project Apollo space programs, served as Chief of Medicine at Tripler Army Medical Center in Hawaii, and treated patients at the Kalaupapa Leper Colony in Molokai. He was Chief of Medicine at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, editor of JAMA, Executive Vice President of the American College of Physicians and a member of The Pharos Editorial Board.

The Award

One award of $4,500 for an essay highlighting the life of a physician who has enriched the world of medicine. The winning essay will be published in The Pharos. The winning author must submit a W-9 form prior to issuance of the award check.

The Judson Daland Prize, awarded by the American Philosophical Society, honors outstanding achievements in patient-oriented research with a grant of $50,000. This prestigious award will be presented in November 2024, recognizing significant contributions in the field. Nominees must have conducted their work in a U.S. institution and should be no more than 15 years post-M.D. receipt, ensuring that emerging talents are acknowledged.

The Dave Dowling Scholarship, offered by the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers, supports aspiring students in horticulture or floriculture. With an award of $1,000 each for two promising candidates, this scholarship encourages young individuals to pursue careers in cut flower production. Successful applicants also receive a one-year ASCFG membership, fostering community and educational opportunities. This initiative aims to advance the domestic cut flower industry by nurturing the next generation of growers.

The Local Section Member Engagement (LS-MEET) Grant Program, provided by the American Chemical Society, aims to enhance community engagement within local sections. With a funding cap of $2,000, this program supports initiatives that attract new members and strengthen existing communities. Eligible projects may include innovative technology use, targeted events for underrepresented local chemist groups, and activities that promote interaction among members. Applications should align with local section goals and detail specific budgetary needs.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

John Wheatley Award

To recognize the dedication of physicists who have made contributions to the development of physics across the globe. The award will consist of a stipend of $5,000 and a certificate citing the contributions made by the recipient. The award will be presented biennially, every odd-numbered year, at the general meeting of the American Physical Society.

Nominations will be considered for two review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.

The Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust Grant supports education and research in ornamental horticulture, funding projects that enhance public gardens, promote ornamental plants, and support related educational initiatives. Grants typically range up to $20,000, with a maximum of $25,000, focusing on project support rather than general operating expenses. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) public charities and similar entities worldwide, while the Trust does not fund individuals or capital campaigns.

The Samull Classroom Herb Garden Grant, established through a generous donation from Donald Samull, supports elementary classrooms (grades K-6) with at least ten students to create herb gardens. Grants of $500 are awarded annually to enhance curricula with hands-on learning experiences about herbs. Eligible classrooms may use funds for plants and necessary supplies like soil and tools. Applications are reviewed by a committee, ensuring equitable access to these educational resources.

The Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program supports early-career faculty in research and education, fostering academic leadership. It encourages proposals from diverse candidates, enhancing STEM equity. Awardees may be nominated for the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE), recognizing innovative research and community service. These awards underscore the importance of science and technology for the nation's future, aiming to connect fundamental research with national goals.

The Outreach Volunteer of the Year Award, presented by the American Chemical Society, recognizes exceptional volunteers from local sections and international chapters who educate the public about chemistry. This award highlights the vital contributions of volunteers to the community and promotes scientific outreach. Awardees receive a certificate and a small gift during events, and their achievements are celebrated at the annual ChemLuminary Awards. This initiative aims to inspire future generations and strengthen the chemistry community.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

John Dawson Award for Excellence in Plasma Physics Research

Recognizes a particular recent outstanding achievement in plasma physics research.

The award consists of $5,000, a certificate citing the contributions made by the recipient, and a travel reimbursement of up to $2,000 to attend the APS Division of Plasma Physics (DPP) meeting. Information on allowable travel expenses appears here.

In the case of multiple recipients, the stipend and travel reimbursement will be divided equally.

The recipient will receive a DPP meeting registration waiver. In the event of a team larger than five (5), DPP may cap the number of registration waivers.

It will be awarded annually.

Nominations will be considered for three review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.

Prior to 2007, this award was originally named the Award for Excellence in Plasma Physics.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

James Clerk Maxwell Prize for Plasma Physics

Recognizes outstanding contributions to the field of plasma physics.

The prize consists of $10,000, a certificate citing the contributions made by the recipient, and a travel reimbursement of up to $2,000 to attend the APS Division of Plasma Physics (DPP) meeting. Information on allowable travel expenses appears here.

The recipient will be asked to deliver an invited talk at the DPP meeting and will receive a meeting registration waiver.

The prize will be presented annually.

Nominations will be considered for three review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.

The National Chemical Technician Award, presented by the American Chemical Society (ACS), recognizes outstanding excellence among chemical technology professionals. Winners receive a $1,000 prize and a plaque at the ACS Spring meeting, with travel expenses covered. This award honors the contributions of technicians, operators, and analysts in advancing the field, promoting professionalism and expertise within the community. Nominees must have five years of relevant employment, though ACS membership is not required.

The Burg-Coleman Iowa State 77 ACI Fellowship, offered by the ACI Foundation, supports graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in civil engineering focused on concrete structures or materials. Recipients receive a $10,000 stipend for educational expenses, recognition in Concrete International magazine, and coverage of travel costs for two ACI conventions. Open to international students attending institutions in the U.S., Canada, or Mexico, this fellowship fosters the next generation of leaders in the concrete industry.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

Edward A. Bouchet Award

This award promotes the participation of underrepresented minorities in physics by identifying and recognizing a distinguished minority physicist who has made significant contributions to physics research and the advancement of underrepresented minority scientists. The program will help publicize the lecturer's work and career development to the physics community, especially among minority physics students. The Lectureship consists of a stipend of $5,000 plus support for travel to an APS meeting where the recipient will receive the award and give a presentation. In addition, the lecturer should arrange to give up to three additional talks at academic institutions where the impact of the visit on minority students would be significant. The purpose of these visits would be to deliver technical lectures or lectures about his/her specialty, to visit classrooms when appropriate, to assist the college/university in pre-college outreach efforts where appropriate, and to talk informally with both faculty and students about research and teaching careers in physics. Financial support will also be provided for travel to these lectures. It will be presented annually.

DICK'S Sporting Goods offers a Sponsorships & Donations Program aimed at supporting youth sports leagues and organizations. They prioritize requests that promote community engagement and character development through sports. Eligible organizations must operate in areas with a DICK'S store and adhere to anti-discrimination policies. The program evaluates requests monthly, with sponsorships up to $25,000 and donations up to $250. Support may include gift certificates or coupons for teams and events, fostering an inclusive sports culture.

The Lend A Hand Society offers the Book Mission Grant to assist low-income individuals and families by funding the acquisition of books for educational institutions and libraries. This initiative supports various programs focused on emergency assistance and camperships for children. Non-profit organizations across the United States can apply, with grants aimed at enhancing literacy and education. Grantees must provide reports detailing the use of funds and project progress, ensuring transparency and accountability.

The Community Seed Donations program by Seed Savers Exchange provides seeds to schools, community gardens, and nonprofits, ensuring that these resources are freely available to those in need. In addition, they offer disaster relief seed donations for organizations affected by recent natural disasters. To qualify, applicants must be nonprofits with U.S. shipping addresses. This initiative not only supports community growth but also promotes sustainability and resilience in the face of challenges.

The International Chapter Award, presented by the American Chemical Society (ACS), recognizes International Chemical Sciences Chapters (ICSCs) for their annual report submissions. Awards include Outstanding, Commendable, and Honorable distinctions. To be eligible, chapters must submit their reports by February 15, and providing supplemental materials can enhance their chances of receiving an award. This initiative highlights ACS's commitment to fostering global scientific collaboration and excellence in the chemical sciences.