Best Quality of Life Grants in District of Columbia

The Robert D. Hevey, Jr. and Constance M. Filling Fellowship in Invertebrate Zoology offers short-term fellowships for graduate students researching invertebrate zoology at the National Museum of Natural History. This ten-week program, which includes a stipend of $10,000 and a research allowance of $5,000, prioritizes applicants who have not previously conducted research at NMNH. Fluency in English and full-time residency at NMNH are required for eligibility.

The Arts Fund Grants provide vital support for emerging artists from Australia and the USA, facilitating their artistic development through grants of up to $5,000. This funding can be used for travel, living expenses, tuition, and other related costs. Eligible applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of either country and have a formal offer from an accredited institution. The program emphasizes merit-based opportunities across various artistic fields, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.

Armstrong County Community Foundation

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Gerstbrein/McCanna Scholarship for the Arts

After a long and rewarding career in Landscape Design and Art Education, Lisa Gerstbrein/McCanna wanted to promote the Arts and Industrial Arts in the community where she made her home and her livelihood. Her career brought her tremendous joy in pursuits that she loved as well as the satisfying reward of helping students find inspiration in the worlds of Art and Industrial Art. She is a true believer in the concept of STEAM based education. Accordingly, she established a fund to provide scholarships for the advanced education of advancing Senior High School Students in these areas who are residents of Armstrong County, Pennsylvania and are pursuing higher education in an approved program within 300 miles of their respective school - Armstrong High School, West Shamokin High School or Lenape Technical School. 

Scholarship Details

• Available to High School Seniors
• Nonrenewable

All ACCF Scholarships are merit based.

The Hatfield Fellowship Program, established by the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon, offers a unique nine-month internship for a Native American to work in the Washington, D.C. office of an Oregon congressional delegate. This program aims to foster understanding between tribal communities and congressional leaders, empowering fellows with skills and experience in public service. Preference is given to members of Oregon's federally recognized tribes, ensuring a strong representation of Native American voices in politics.

The Kristian Fauchald Polychaete Research Fellowship offers funding for polychaete biologists at all career stages to conduct independent research at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. This fellowship promotes global collaboration in polychaete studies, providing access to extensive resources and facilities. Fellowships are awarded biannually, supporting projects of one week to six months, with eligible expenses including relocation and research costs. Applicants must engage actively in collections-based research and contact the curator before applying.

The Deems Taylor/Virgil Thomson Awards, established in 1967 by the ASCAP Foundation, honor exceptional books, articles, and liner notes about music. With total prizes of $4000, awards are given to top submissions in Pop and Concert Music genres. Eligible works must be published in the previous year and meet specific criteria. The foundation aims to celebrate the legacy of Deems Taylor and Virgil Thomson, prominent figures in American music history.

The ASCAP Foundation's Jay Gorney Award honors songwriters who create original music with socially conscious themes. Established in 2009, this award commemorates composer Jay Gorney's legacy, particularly his iconic song 'Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?' Entrants are judged on their ability to convey powerful messages through artistry and lyrical excellence. The award includes a $1,000 monetary prize, fostering creativity and social awareness in the music community.

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Fund for Community Good supports projects that promote equity and justice across various sectors, including education, health, and economic prosperity. This unrestricted fund invites partnerships with 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, primarily focusing on Kent County, Michigan. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusive opportunities, ensuring all community members can thrive. Eligible applicants can submit pre-applications year-round for potential funding.

The FCIDD Nonprofit Project Grants are designed to support 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across various states. Grants are awarded for projects that enhance accessibility, provide educational opportunities, and promote community engagement. The foundation encourages collaboration with local Civitan clubs, particularly in October and March funding rounds, while also offering open applications in July. The initiative aims to empower nonprofits to improve the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.

McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Grant

The Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) will issue a Request for Applications for the fiscal year 2027 (FY27) McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Grant Program (MKV) for eligible Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) in the District of Columbia. Authorized under Title VII-B of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, Section 726, as amended, the purpose of this grant is to facilitate the enrollment, attendance, and success in school of homeless children and youth.

Available Funding for Award:

A total of at least Three Hundred Thousand Dollars and Zero Cents ($300,000.00) in grant funds are available for award. District of Columbia LEAs shall use the funds to address the educational and related needs of homeless children and youth in DC. LEAs, with or without this funding, must ensure that children and youth experiencing homelessness have equal access to the same free, appropriate public education, including public preschool education, as provided to other children and youth. OSSE anticipates awarding 3-6 subgrants based on the highest-ranking applications. Grant funds shall only be used to support activities authorized by relevant statutes and regulations and that are included in the applicant’s submission.

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Program Area Improvements

For I/DD specific 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) looking to add/improve programming potential via equipment and property improvements, updates and additions.

The Peggy Lee Songwriter Award, presented by the ASCAP Foundation, honors lyricists of original songs who exhibit a sophisticated command of language and demonstrate significant talent. This prestigious award recognizes contributions to jazz and popular music, with a prize of $2,500 shared among co-writers. Eligible entrants must be U.S. citizens or residents, at least 18 years old, and ASCAP members in good standing. This award celebrates the legacy of Peggy Lee, a pioneering figure in music.

The Kenneth Jay Boss Fellowship in Invertebrate Zoology supports graduate students conducting independent research on mollusks and other invertebrates at the National Museum of Natural History. Recipients receive a stipend of $1,000 per week for housing and subsistence, with potential additional funding for research supplies. Fellowships are awarded biannually, with proposals generally lasting from one week to six months. Applicants must be graduate students, proficient in English, and work closely with an IZ research scientist.

The Access to Jobs Grant aims to support organizations in hiring returning citizens in Washington, D.C. Employers can receive funding to hire up to ten individuals for a minimum of 8 weeks, with subsidies covering 40% of the minimum wage in the first year and 80% in the second year. This initiative encourages workforce reintegration while requiring organizations to ensure employees earn at least minimum wage. Participation is welcomed beyond the grant period on an unsubsidized basis.

The Sammy Cahn Award, presented by The ASCAP Foundation, honors exceptional lyric-writing talent among songwriters of original songs. Established in 1995 to commemorate Sammy Cahn's legacy, the award offers a $5,000 prize to recipients. Eligible entrants include ASCAP writer members in good standing or independent songwriters. Submissions are judged anonymously based on lyric quality and overall craft, ensuring the recognition of artistic excellence within the songwriting community.

The Land and Water Conservation Fund's Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program aims to enhance recreational opportunities in underserved communities through significant funding. Offering matching grants up to 50%, with awards ranging from $300,000 to $15,000,000, this program encourages applicants to connect with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection early in the application process for guidance. This initiative supports large-scale projects that improve access to recreational facilities.

The Michael Masser Scholarship, established by the late composer Michael Masser, supports talented students in music. It offers $3,000 to recipients for educational advancement, with nominations made by ASCAP representatives. Eligible nominees must demonstrate exceptional talent in music composition or performance and be entering a collegiate music program. This scholarship aims to foster the next generation of music creators and enrich the arts community through financial assistance.

The Leiber & Stoller Music Scholarship, funded by The ASCAP Foundation, offers $2,500 annually for four years to high school seniors pursuing a music major. Aspiring songwriters, musicians, and vocalists are encouraged to apply. The selection process evaluates music and lyric writing, overall craftsmanship, and artistry. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens or residents and meet specific criteria. The scholarship is aimed at nurturing the next generation of music creators, ensuring their educational journey is supported.

Capitol Hill Construction Impact Grant Program

The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (“DMPED”) invites the submission of applications from qualified organizations for a grant under the Capitol Hill Construction Impact grant program (“CHCI” or “Program”). The purpose of the program is to provide short-term financial relief to support small businesses impacted by District Department of Transportation (“DDOT”) construction near Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, and Potomac Avenue, SE, and along 8th Street SE, between Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, and Virginia Avenue, SE, in the District of Columbia (“District”).

Construction activities in these streets may limit access, visibility, and customer flow for neighborhood-serving small businesses. The Program provides short-term financial relief to help sustain affected businesses during this period.

Small businesses may use grant funds to prepare for or recover from any revenue losses they may face as a result of these construction projects. Specifically, grant funds may be used to pay or reimburse the following cost of the impacted business, provided they are sufficiently documented, reasonable and necessary for the operation of the business during the period of construction, and incurred within the same period as the applicable construction project(s) are conducted:

• Rent
• Utilities
• Insurance
• CAM (common area maintenance)
• Mortgage
• Other reasonable business operations costs as proposed by the applicant and approved by DMPED

Anticipated Number of Awards:

DMPED expects to award 10-30 grants under the Program, in an aggregate amount of up to $150,000, contingent on the availability of an appropriated budget in such amount. Awards are anticipated to range between $5,000 and $15,000. 

The Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts offers Beinecke Visiting Senior Fellowships for scholars to conduct full-time research in the visual arts. This program provides access to extensive resources, including the National Gallery of Art and the Library of Congress. Fellows, who must hold a PhD for five years or equivalent experience, receive stipends ranging from $7,000 to $8,000, along with housing subject to availability. Applications are welcomed from diverse disciplines, enhancing the study of visual culture.

The Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts at the National Gallery of Art offers Paul Mellon Visiting Senior Fellowships aimed at scholars researching the history and theory of visual arts across all periods and regions. Recipients receive a stipend of $7,000 or $8,000, along with housing, to support two months of full-time research. Applications are open to those holding a PhD or equivalent professional experience, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary insights into visual artifacts.

The Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts at the National Gallery offers Leonard A. Lauder Visiting Senior Fellowships for scholars engaged in research on the history and criticism of visual arts. Fellowships support full-time research and include access to extensive resources, including the National Gallery and Library of Congress. Applicants should have held a PhD for at least five years and demonstrate proficiency in two languages. The program encourages applications from historically marginalized fields.

The SEARCH Grant provides essential support for very small, financially distressed rural communities by funding predevelopment feasibility studies and technical assistance for water and waste disposal projects. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes. Funds can be used for feasibility studies, design analysis, and technical help in securing financial assistance, ensuring improvements in rural infrastructure and community health.

The Honda USA Foundation's Mobility Pillar Award aims to empower individuals with disabilities by funding programs that enhance access and mobility. The foundation supports nonprofit organizations and schools that provide therapeutic, adaptive, and comprehensive care programs, as well as mobility modifications and assistive technology. Applications are accepted from U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsors, ensuring that the joy of mobility is accessible to all.

This funding opportunity invites innovative pilot studies focused on biological, behavioral, and social mechanisms related to HIV pathogenesis, aligning with NIDDK's mission and NIH HIV/AIDS research priorities. Topics may include exploring pathophysiological mechanisms of HIV comorbidities and coinfections, understanding HIV reservoirs in relevant tissues, and examining social determinants affecting health outcomes. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.

The Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (Region 2) aims to support small businesses in securing DOT-funded transportation contracts. Through cooperative agreements, the program offers outreach, financial and technical assistance, and various training programs. This initiative helps small businesses enhance their capabilities to compete effectively for contracts at federal, state, and local levels, thereby promoting growth and sustainability in the transportation sector.

The Sprague Charitable Contribution Program focuses on giving back to communities through charitable donations. With awards ranging from $250 to $10,000, priority is given to organizations that support children and environmental stewardship, particularly within Sprague's operational areas. The program seeks impactful contributions that can achieve significant results, reflecting Sprague's commitment to social responsibility and community improvement.