Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in Florida

The AISES National Conference Travel Scholarship provides financial support for full-time students in STEM fields to attend the annual conference. Covering registration, airfare, and lodging, recipients must commit to attending all events and uphold the AISES Code of Conduct. Selection is based on the quality of essays, letters of recommendation, and academic performance. Announcements for awarded scholarships will be made in late August/early September 2025, facilitating networking and professional development for indigenous students.

The ESA Youth Scholarship Program, by the Electronic Security Association, provides financial support to children of first responders, having awarded over $941,500 to date. Eligible applicants are high school seniors with parents who are full-time active first responders. Each scholarship winner receives $1,000 and a chance to compete for larger awards of $14,000 for first place and $5,000 for second place. Applications are welcomed from students in participating states.

The St. Baldrick’s Foundation Fellowship Award supports pediatric oncology training through a two-year fellowship, with a potential third year based on need and achievements. This initiative, powered by community fundraising events, aims to advance research for childhood cancer cures. The award provides a salary capped at $97,500 per year, covering salary and benefits for fellows. This fellowship not only fosters professional growth but also contributes significantly to the fight against childhood cancers.

The Bayer Fund: Food & Nutrition Grant supports high-quality programs that combat malnutrition and improve access to nutritious foods, particularly for underserved communities and families with young children. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government units. The fund prioritizes long-term behavioral change towards healthy eating and nutrition, with grants typically not exceeding 25% of an organization's operating budget. International requests start at $25,000, fostering sustainable food security and education initiatives.

The FY26 Military Burn Research Program (MBRP) Discovery Award aims to support groundbreaking research in combat-relevant burn care. This award encourages innovative and exploratory studies that provide new insights and foundational data for future clinical research. The focus is on novel approaches that lay the groundwork for scientific advancements and product development in burn care, ensuring robust preliminary data generation for subsequent research initiatives.

The Emily Hall Tremaine Exhibition Research Grant supports innovative projects that explore contemporary art in new frameworks. With a focus on education in the United States, the foundation emphasizes the importance of research that challenges conventional thought. Grants of $10,000 are awarded to curators collaborating with established non-profits, promoting impactful exhibitions. The foundation aims to foster family unity and respect while addressing enduring societal issues through art, environment, and learning differences.

The DoW Arthritis Translational Research Award, funded by the U.S. Army Medical Command, aims to support high-impact translational research focused on accelerating findings into clinically relevant solutions for arthritis. This award is intended for preclinical or animal research, emphasizing the significance of the proposed outcomes in advancing arthritis research and benefiting Service Members, Veterans, and their Families. Applications must include preliminary or published data to demonstrate the feasibility and relevance of the research.

The Mabel and Ellsworth Simmons Charitable Foundation, established in 1998, focuses on enhancing the welfare of youth, families, and seniors in Hillsborough County, Florida, particularly in the South Shore community. They support charitable and educational organizations that align with their mission. The Foundation operates with a Board of Directors made up of the Simmons family and accepts applications year-round, meeting quarterly to review requests. This commitment fosters community development and support.

Dennis Jones and Wayne Johnston Memorial Dice Run Scholarship

This fund provides a scholarship for a graduating senior from either Olean High School or Allegany-Limestone Central School who will be attending a 4-year college, with preference for a student planning to study business or business related field (i.e. accounting, finance, marketing, economics etc.)

Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida connects people who care with causes that matter. Since 1964, we have served the citizens of Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Clay, and Putnam counties through a range of charitable and civic activities, while helping individual donors achieve their philanthropic goals. We believe in Giving Back. Forever Forward.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous donors, The Community Foundation offers several scholarships each year that benefit students in Northeast Florida who are seeking post-secondary degrees.

Bernie G. Yvon Memorial Fund Scholarship

For High School Seniors & College Students in The Theatre/Performing Arts

The purpose of the fund is to perpetuate the legacy of Bernie G. Yvon by supporting students pursuing study in the Theatre/Performing Arts with need-based scholarships. In this tenth year (2026), amounts up to $2000 each will be available from contributions to the fund via The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida. In selecting the successful candidate(s), the review committee will consider the following:

• Knowledge of Bernie G. Yvon
• Theatre/Performing Arts potential and past experiences
• Financial need
• Academic record
• Two letters of recommendation
• GPA

The Delta Scholarship aims to support college-bound minority students in San Diego County who are dedicated to pursuing higher education. Established in memory of Jim Lewis, a passionate community leader, this scholarship offers up to $10,000 per student annually for four years, based on financial need. Eligible applicants must be graduating high school seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0, planning to attend an accredited college or university.

The Tri-M Foundation's Performing Arts Grant Program aims to support innovative and high-quality performing arts projects by regional non-profit organizations. The program prioritizes projects that align with the organization's mission, engage audiences, and provoke important discussions. Grants range from $3,000 to $10,000, intended for diverse artistic expressions, including theatre and dance. Applications are encouraged from eligible organizations that demonstrate detailed project planning, inclusivity, and a commitment to addressing sensitive topics.

The Graduate Education Indigenous Scholarships, including the Aurora Indigenous Education Scholarship, support Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islanders to pursue full-time graduate studies in the US. Offering up to $40,000 for living and educational expenses, this initiative encourages Indigenous individuals to engage in Masters, Ph.D., or Postdoctoral Research. Applicants must be Australian citizens or permanent residents, actively seeking placement in accredited institutions, and plan to study for at least one year.

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 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 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 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 Speer Dream Foundation Grant is dedicated to fostering positive change in communities through education, military assistance, medical support, and outreach. With a mission grounded in faith, the foundation aims to uplift individuals and provide resources for transformative initiatives. Grants are awarded twice a year, encouraging proposals that align with their values of impactful giving and community support. This initiative seeks to ignite hope and foster lasting partnerships, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

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 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 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.

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 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.

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 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 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.