Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in District of Columbia

Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation

Vision: We envision a vibrant, prosperous northern Chautauqua community, rich in opportunity today and tomorrow.

Our Mission

To realize our vision we focus on:

• strategic and responsive grant making
• encouraging local philanthropy and building permanent endowments for the future
• actively serving as a community leader and partner for the benefit and enrichment in our community.

Scholarships

Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation proudly manages over 200 individual scholarship funds,

Matthew Hazelton Memorial Scholarship for Law Enforcement

The Matthew Hazelton Memorial Scholarship for Law Enforcement supports students in northern Chautauqua who wish to pursue a career in law enforcement or criminal justice.

The Brees Dream Foundation Grant aims to enhance the lives of cancer patients while providing essential care, education, and opportunities for children and families in need. With the support of generous donors and partners, the Foundation is dedicated to advancing cancer research and offering vital resources to those facing challenges. This commitment reflects a profound dedication to improving quality of life and fostering hope in communities.

The Clifton-Whitehead Scholarship Fund, established by Edward S. Whitehead, Jr. in honor of his relatives, supports deserving students in Middle Georgia, particularly in Bibb County. This fund aims to assist students of good character facing financial challenges in obtaining a college education. Annually, approximately 12 awards of around $1,000 are granted. Eligible recipients must maintain a minimum GPA and can renew the scholarship for up to four years, provided they meet the established criteria.

The Lane E. Warren Scholarship Fund, managed by the Northern Piedmont Community Foundation, offers a $1,000 award to a Madison County resident who is a high school graduate or graduating this year. This scholarship honors Lane E. Warren, a promising student whose life was tragically cut short. The selection criteria emphasize financial need and community service, supporting students pursuing college or certificate programs in their educational endeavors.

Anita Tarr Turk Fund for Breast Cancer Research

The Anita Tarr Turk Fund for Breast Cancer Research was established in October 2011 as an endowed field of interest fund. Its purpose is to distribute grants annually to one or more charitable, educational or scientific organizations conducting top-level research searching for the cause of, and cure for, breast cancer.

Anita Tarr Turk encouraged the Community Foundation for Monterey (CFMC)’s board to consider grants to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation and the California Breast Cancer Research Program. The Fund may also consider proposals from organizations conducting similar research. Due to the narrow field of interest and suggested organizations in the fund’s establishing documents, organizations are invited to share research projects for CFMC to consider.

Grant Amount

• $60,000/year

The FY26 Breast Cancer Research Program's Clinical Research Extension Award aims to enhance breast cancer clinical studies by extending data collection and follow-up. This funding mechanism emphasizes the importance of patient participation and addresses challenges from early trial terminations. Notably, applications must include two breast cancer consumer advocates and can feature either a single Principal Investigator or a duo. This initiative seeks to improve outcomes through comprehensive data analysis and patient engagement.

The Autism Care Today SOS Program is dedicated to providing immediate assistance to families affected by autism across the United States. Established in 2005, this program addresses urgent needs for effective treatments and services for autism spectrum disorders. Unlike typical grant cycles that may take up to 12 weeks, the SOS Program prioritizes those in critical situations, ensuring timely support based on available funding. Eligibility includes a family income below $45,000 and a demonstrated immediate need for treatment.

The Autism Care Today Grant provides vital funding assistance to families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders across the United States. Since its inception in 2005, it has supported over 1,562 families with more than $1.85 million in grants. The program focuses on enhancing the quality of life for children with autism through various initiatives, including safety measures, assistive technologies, and behavioral therapy funding, while also addressing the unique challenges faced by military families.

Community Foundation of New Jersey

Over our 46-year history, the Community Foundation of New Jersey has collaborated with individuals, families, organizations, and businesses to design charitable funds and implement the philanthropic solutions they want to see in their communities. We leverage $1.17 billion in assets and 1,200 funds to help our partners think boldly and creatively about ways to give.

Scholarship Fund Overview

Beyond a shared commitment to educational opportunity, families establish scholarship funds with a variety of goals and purposes in mind. They may offer traditional scholarships or customize fund awards for alternative scholarships.

Currently, CFNJ administers more than 135 scholarship funds. Our scholarship opportunities run the gamut, from those exclusive to a local high school or geographic region to those supporting specific majors or career pursuits. Last year, we awarded over $2 million in scholarship assistance to 271 scholars.

Applicants may be evaluated on academic performance; extracurricular activities; community involvement; paid or unpaid work; and a statement of their personal aspirations, educational goals, and demonstrated unmet financial need in our scholarship review process.

David H. Roe Scholarship

This scholarship assists graduating high school seniors from the Greater Newark area who plan to pursue an undergraduate degree in mathematics, physics, biology, botany, or chemistry. Applicants must have been accepted to a four-year accredited college/university within the United States and must be entering their freshman year in the fall. If you have not yet been accepted to a college or university, please do not apply at this time. Scholarships are based on merit and unmet financial need.

The I Could Do Great Things Foundation is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations with innovative ideas that have a charitable purpose. By providing financial support and encouragement, the foundation aims to help transform great ideas into reality. There is no deadline for applications, making it accessible for anyone with a fresh approach to apply. The foundation prioritizes projects related to education, community, and Jewish causes, ensuring that the impact is meaningful and far-reaching.

The Ambler Trust Grants, provided by the Elizabeth Raymond Ambler Trust, support various sectors including education, health, arts, culture, and environmental initiatives. Eligible applicants include municipal, religious, charitable, benevolent, or educational organizations as determined by the Trustees. These grants aim to enhance community welfare and promote beneficial projects, ensuring a positive impact across diverse fields.

The William Simes Research Fund, established in honor of Frances Simes Hastings, supports graduate students and postdoctoral researchers conducting field research at Hastings Natural History Reservation in California. Awards of $2,000 are available to offset costs related to housing and research supplies for extended research periods. This fund fosters scientific inquiry at one of the oldest field stations in the University of California Natural Reserve System, promoting the stewardship of diverse natural habitats.

The Gilead Foundation offers funding aimed at creating equitable health opportunities for all. Through its Giving Together Program and the Creating Possible Fund, it mobilizes resources to support community organizations that address health disparities and promote education equity. By fostering employee volunteerism and matching contributions, the Foundation actively engages in building healthier communities. This holistic approach seeks to dismantle barriers to health access, ensuring a sustainable impact on individuals and communities.

The Elizabeth Hurlock Beckman Award Trust Grant honors educators who inspire students to create impactful organizations or movements. Established in 2008, the trust has awarded over $3.5 million to 148 professors across the U.S. The grant primarily supports those teaching in psychology, medicine, or law, emphasizing the importance of community contribution. Eligibility is limited to U.S. citizens or permanent residents who have inspired their former students to make a difference.

The Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Program invites applications to enhance clinical and translational science through innovative partnerships and research programs. This initiative aims to accelerate the delivery of treatments to diverse populations by improving clinical research efficiency, creating national resources for public health responses, and providing training for clinical research professionals. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time, with optional Letters of Intent recommended 30 days prior to the full proposal deadline.

The NRF Foundation Ray Greenly Scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in digital retail-related fields such as technology and supply chain. Established in memory of Ray Greenly, this scholarship aims to empower ambitious students with the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit to innovate in retail. Eligible candidates must be undergraduate students with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and relevant internship experience. The application deadline is November 3rd, providing a unique opportunity to attend the NRF Foundation Student Program in New York City.

NASA's Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute Cooperative Agreement Notice-5 invites multi-institutional proposals aimed at advancing human exploration of the Moon and Mars. This initiative focuses on innovative research to address critical scientific questions and develop technologies for future missions. The program emphasizes community development, training the next generation of scientists and engineers, and fostering partnerships to integrate science with exploration goals.

The Russell Sage Foundation’s Core Research Grants program addresses social, political, and economic inequalities in the U.S. It investigates the factors contributing to these disparities and their impact on various outcomes, including education and civic participation. Launched in 2001 and renamed in 2018, the program aims to enhance understanding of how inequalities affect mobility and representation. Researchers with a doctorate or substantial experience are encouraged to apply, fostering high-level scholarly research in this critical field.

The Wan Chen and Ming Li Scholarship for International Study at WMU's College of Education and Human Development supports undergraduate and graduate students in non-English based study abroad programs. Applicants must be U.S. residents, enrolled in CEHD, and submit proof of acceptance into an international program along with a proposal outlining the experience's benefits for their academic and career goals. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities and make studying abroad more accessible.

The FY 2027 Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) FAA Contract Tower Competitive Grant Program offers up to $100 million for airport traffic control tower projects. This initiative aims to support airports in modernizing and repairing aging infrastructure, ensuring safety and efficiency in air traffic management. Eligible projects may involve construction, rehabilitation, or installation of essential air traffic control equipment, enhancing the operational capabilities of the nation's airports.

The Kettering Family Foundation, established in 1956, supports diverse charitable activities across various sectors, including arts, education, health, and human services. Applicants must have a valid 501(c)(3) status and discuss proposals with foundation staff before applying. Only one application is allowed per year, and specific exclusions apply, such as for religious purposes and individual grants. The foundation emphasizes meaningful community impact, making it a vital resource for eligible organizations.

The Betty H. King Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides two renewable $1,000 scholarships for female high school seniors from select Missouri counties. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, enroll in at least 12 credit hours, and plan to major in Education, Engineering, Math, or Science. Applications require a transcript, personal essay, and details about community service involvement.

The Ralph M. Knight Chemistry & Engineering Scholarship, established in 2010 by Nancy Knight, honors her late husband, Ralph. This scholarship is aimed at full-time seniors in Catholic high schools within the Diocese of Phoenix who are practicing Catholics and U.S. citizens. Awardees receive a one-time $5,000 towards freshman-year tuition at a four-year college or university, provided they major in chemistry or engineering.

Promega Corporate Giving is dedicated to advancing science and improving life globally. With over 45 years of experience, Promega supports initiatives in science, education, and creativity, focusing on innovative solutions and community wellness. They fund organizations in the U.S. and Canada that prioritize experimental initiatives while steering clear of political, religious, and fraternal causes. Their commitment lies in fostering long-term contributions from scientists to meet future global needs.

The Japanese American Community Foundation Grants support programs for the Japanese American and broader Asian American communities. Funding ranges from $2,500 to $50,000 for projects focusing on senior health, history, arts, culture, and youth. Eligible applicants must be registered 501c3 public benefit nonprofit organizations. Note that organizations with open grants cannot apply until their current grant is closed. Submit a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) before the full proposal.

Jane Burns DeWitt Baumann Scholarship

Jane Burns DeWitt Baumann was a life-long resident and educator from Columbus. She attended Columbus City Schools from elementary school through graduation from South High School in 1949, subsequently majoring in Fine Arts and Education at Ohio University. She taught English for twenty years at Linden-McKinley high school and influenced hundreds of students with her passion for reading and writing, inspiring many to pursue their college educations despite trying circumstances. She was a committed advocate of public education. This scholarship honors her service and commitment to public education by supporting a future educator who would not otherwise have the means to attend college.

Award Amount:

• $20,000 payable over four years at $5,000 per academic year