Best Dukes County Grants for Nonprofits in Massachusetts

The Zuckerman Fellowship at Harvard is designed for first-year students pursuing additional master's degrees in education, public health, or public policy. It aims to support individuals with demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to public service. Recipients receive financial aid covering tuition and stipends, along with a leadership development program that connects them with mentors in various fields. This fellowship emphasizes the cultivation of impactful leaders in society, addressing complex challenges through advanced education.

The Next Generation Undergraduate Scholarship, established by the Architects Foundation, aims to support diverse students pursuing architecture degrees. With a total award of up to $20,000, the scholarship is available to US citizens or permanent residents who are seniors in high school or second-year college students enrolled in NAAB-accredited programs. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering inclusivity and excellence in the architectural profession, empowering future leaders to shape the built environment.

The Next Generation Graduate Scholarship, established by the Architects Foundation, supports aspiring architects from diverse backgrounds. With an award of up to $20,000 over five years, it aims to enhance education accessibility in architecture. This initiative honors Whitney Young Jr.'s call for a more responsible profession, inviting students from technical schools, community colleges, and non-NAAB programs to apply. The scholarship not only aids in educational pursuits but also fosters a network of future leaders in architecture.

The M.S.P.A. Grant, offered by the Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agriculture, provides financial support to projects that enhance agriculture in Massachusetts. With grants ranging from $500 to $25,000, the Society focuses on initiatives that are economically and environmentally sound, promote knowledge of farming, and stimulate research in new areas. Founded in 1792, the Society has a long-standing commitment to advancing agricultural practices and supporting farmers in the region.

The Zuckerman Fellowship at Harvard Kennedy School supports students pursuing an additional master’s degree while demonstrating exceptional leadership potential and commitment to public service. Eligible candidates include those enrolled in or accepted to accredited M.B.A., J.D., M.D., or D.D.S. programs. This prestigious fellowship provides financial support, leadership development, and mentorship opportunities, aiming to cultivate leaders who will address complex societal challenges. The program emphasizes the importance of high-quality professional training for impactful public leadership.

The Zuckerman Fellowship offers aspiring leaders the opportunity to pursue an additional master’s degree from Harvard's Graduate School of Education, Kennedy School, or T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Designed for first-year students with a strong commitment to public service, this fellowship provides financial support, leadership development, and access to a robust network of mentors. The application process is separate from school admissions, emphasizing the importance of strong leadership potential and academic excellence.

The Jefferies-Park Scholarship, established in 1988 by Evelyn Jefferies-Park, honors her commitment to education. It supports graduating seniors from Ord High School, Nebraska, who are in the top 15% of their class and plan to pursue a four-year degree. This scholarship reflects the legacy of generosity fostered by the Lincoln Community Foundation, which has provided over $606,000 in scholarships to local students in 2025 alone.

The Donald & Janice Svehla Family Endowed Scholarship, established in 2022 by their sons, supports students from Lincoln Northeast High School pursuing higher education. This initiative, backed by the Lincoln Community Foundation, honors Donald and Janice's dedication to education and community involvement. In 2025, the scholarship contributed to over $606,000 awarded to 299 recipients. It emphasizes the importance of academic excellence alongside financial need, continuing a legacy of support for local students.

The Gleitsman Leadership Fellowship at Harvard Kennedy School empowers emerging social activists with financial support for their master's program, alongside a co-curricular program enhancing leadership skills. Fellows are selected based on their potential to create transformative social impact and are provided with mentorship and a network to facilitate community engagement. This fellowship embodies HKS's mission to cultivate principled public leadership and bridge theory with practice in various sectors.

The Greater Evansville USBCA Scholarship, established by the Greater Evansville USBCA, supports students from Posey, Vanderburgh, and Warrick counties who engage in community service and bowling activities. Eligible applicants must have been members of the USBCA for two of the past four years or be children of members with a minimum 2.0 GPA. The selection process considers academic performance, bowling involvement, community service, and submitted essays and recommendations.

The HKS Center for Public Leadership's Equity Fellowship aims to empower diverse, talented students committed to promoting equity within society. This fellowship offers financial support for a master's degree at Harvard Kennedy School, along with a comprehensive leadership development program. Recipients will connect with exceptional peers and mentors, focusing on enhancing their impact in communities, particularly among marginalized populations. The fellowship encourages applications from individuals with a demonstrated commitment to addressing disparities across various sectors.

The David M. Rubenstein Fellowship at Harvard Kennedy School supports first-year joint-degree students from HKS and Harvard Business School, fostering leaders equipped to tackle global challenges. This fellowship offers financial aid, a comprehensive leadership development program, and a network of exceptional peers and mentors. Candidates are evaluated based on their commitment to public service and leadership potential. Since its inception in 2008, it has aimed to enhance the intersection of business, government, and nonprofit sectors.

The David Gergen Summer Fellowship Program at Harvard Kennedy School offers an exceptional opportunity for students to engage in public service internships during summer 2026. Designed for current HKS students, this competitive program provides financial support for living and travel expenses, along with a robust co-curricular leadership development program. Recipients gain invaluable hands-on experience and networking opportunities, fostering principled public leadership in various sectors, including government and nonprofit organizations.

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences Special Student Scholarship at Harvard supports Bachelor of Liberal Arts candidates who are admitted as Special Students. This scholarship, awarded by the Extension School, covers tuition for one undergraduate course per term, provided it aligns with the student's field of study and isn't available in the Extension School curriculum. Recipients are selected based on financial need and academic merit, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.33.

The Federal Pell Grant provides financial assistance to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need. Administered by the U.S. Department of Education, eligibility is determined through the FAFSA application. Award amounts vary based on the student's financial situation and enrollment status, with a maximum duration of six years of full-time enrollment. This grant aims to make higher education accessible to all qualified individuals, facilitating lifelong learning opportunities.

The Harvard Extension School Grant provides financial assistance to admitted degree candidates who demonstrate financial need and maintain satisfactory academic progress. To be eligible, applicants must submit all required financial aid materials by the priority deadline. The grant covers a portion of tuition charges based on the student's aid index and credit enrollment per term, ensuring that a world-class education remains accessible and flexible for adult learners.

The Harvard Extension School Grant for the Premedical Program offers financial support to admitted premedical candidates who have completed at least two premedical courses with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. To be eligible, applicants must meet the priority deadline and demonstrate financial need. This grant typically covers up to two courses per year for a limited number of candidates, providing essential assistance for those pursuing a career in medicine.

The Kwan Fong Scholarship, offered by Harvard University, provides financial support for one course each fall and spring term to candidates enrolled in the ALM in management or finance program. To be considered, applicants must complete all required financial aid application materials by the priority deadline. This scholarship aims to promote accessibility to Harvard's educational offerings, helping students achieve their academic goals in a flexible and affordable manner.

The Austrian-Hungarian Singing – Sick Benefit Society Donau, Inc. Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports graduating high school seniors pursuing higher education, particularly in fields related to Austrian or German culture. Preference is given to students of Austrian, German, or Swiss-German descent or members of the Austrian-Hungarian Club. This initiative not only aids academic pursuits but also promotes cultural heritage preservation.

The Mary Means Leadership Award, introduced by Main Street America in 2019, celebrates outstanding leaders in local Main Street organizations. This annual award recognizes the vital role of leadership in revitalizing historic downtowns and enhancing community life. Nominees must be active members of Main Street America, showcasing their commitment to community, innovation, and collaboration. The award highlights the importance of diverse leadership in advancing local economic development and preserving cultural heritage across the nation.

The Graton Fellowship, offered by the Sundance Institute, supports Indigenous artists from California-based tribes by providing a $25,000 grant and a year of comprehensive support. This includes access to mentorship, strategic creative services, and participation in the Sundance Film Festival. The initiative aims to empower artists to share their unique stories through film, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of California Indian tribes and fostering a greater understanding of their perspectives.

The Jack and Ruth Calder Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from specific local high schools who reside in particular towns. With an average award of $300, preference is given to students who are actively involved in their communities through volunteering or have received notable recognition. This scholarship is a valuable opportunity for those dedicated to making a difference.

The Helen and Mario Garbin Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports students from NCCF's 20-town service area pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies. With an average award of $500, this scholarship reflects a commitment to fostering education and community engagement. The foundation emphasizes attentive grant-making and collaboration to address local needs, ensuring that donors and organizations effectively work together for impactful results.

The Healthcare Auxiliary Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, provides two scholarships of $2,500 each for students pursuing careers in healthcare. Eligible applicants must reside in Canaan, Cornwall, Kent, North Canaan, Salisbury, or Sharon. Preference is given to those who actively volunteer and engage with their community. This initiative aims to support local students in achieving their academic and professional goals in the healthcare sector.

The Ann and Reno Arsego Medical Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports Torrington or Litchfield residents pursuing careers in the medical field. With an average award of $15,000, this scholarship is designed for students accepted into a college or university with a pre-medical program. Recipients can only receive the scholarship once in their lifetime, making it a valuable opportunity for aspiring healthcare professionals.

The BURGER KING Scholars: James W. McLamore WHOPPER® Scholarship provides financial support to deserving students across North America. With a focus on leadership and financial need, up to three scholarships of $60,000 are awarded annually. Eligibility extends to high school seniors and employees of Burger King, promoting empowerment through education. The program, administered by Scholarship America, has awarded nearly $64 million to over 55,000 students, emphasizing the importance of education in achieving one’s potential.

The Frances H. Ducci Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from public high schools within NCCF's 20-town service area. With awards ranging from $500 to $2,500, this scholarship aims to assist local students in pursuing their academic goals. The foundation is dedicated to enhancing community wellbeing through thoughtful grant-making and scholarship opportunities that address local needs.