Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Florida

The CFSLC Small Grant by the Community Foundation of South Lake County aims to enhance community welfare by supporting nonprofit organizations that serve the residents of the former South Lake County tax district. Eligible applicants must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) entities with a budget not exceeding $3 million and a commitment to sustainability. The grant focuses on connecting resources, empowering local initiatives, and fostering lasting impact in Clermont, Groveland, Mascotte, Minneola, and Montverde.

The June Bacon-Bercey Scholarship in Atmospheric Sciences for Women supports women pursuing careers in atmospheric sciences and meteorology. Established in 1978 and reintroduced in 2021, it offers a $1,000 scholarship, mentorship opportunities, and networking through AccuWeather. Eligible applicants must identify as women and belong to underrepresented groups in STEM, including Black, Indigenous, and LGBTQ+ individuals, and must be graduate or undergraduate students in relevant programs.

The American Geophysical Union Jerome M. Paros Scholarship Award supports graduate students pursuing geophysical instrumentation and precise field measurements in seismology, atmospheric sciences, or ocean sciences. Established by Jerome M. Paros, the scholarship awards up to $5,000 to three students annually, fostering talent in this critical field. Eligibility includes being a graduate student at an accredited institution, with a focus on geophysical measurements. AGU student members are encouraged to apply.

About Us

Bay Area Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization created by and for the people of the Bay Area. We offer a range of flexible giving tools to help our donors make a positive impact on the community and causes that align with their interests and passions. In addition to first-rate donor service, we manage our community’s permanent endowment and award grants to address the community’s most pressing needs and promising opportunities.

Since 1982, our community has used our resources to make charitable gifts more effective. We provide maximum flexibility in establishing, managing, and distributing your gifts. Through our donors’ generosity, we can help support arts and culture, community initiatives, education and youth, environment, health and wellness, human services, and recreation in our area.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Scholarship

Inspired by the belief that love and peaceful protest can eliminate social, political, and economic injustice, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., became this nation’s most heralded civil right leader. He aroused blacks and whites alike to protest racial discrimination, war, and poverty. A champion of nonviolent resistance to oppression, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. Dr. King’s life ended at the age of 39 on April 4, 1968, when he was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee. However short his life was, he greatly advanced the cause of civil rights in this nation. His life serves as an encouragement to each of us to do all that we can to end injustice.

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Scholarships are awarded each year to Bay County high school seniors (regardless of ethnicity) who actively embrace Dr. King’s dream of improving racial harmony and social justice. The scholarship award(s) will be at least $1,000 and are non-renewable. The scholarship award(s) will be presented at the annual Great Lakes Bay Regional Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration program held each January.

This scholarship is also available to Midland and Saginaw County students through their respective community foundations.

The NCCIH Natural Product Mid Phase Clinical Trial (R01 Clinical Trial Required) invites applications for mid-phase clinical trials involving natural products like botanicals and dietary supplements. The goal is to advance clinical testing through robust preliminary data, ensuring these products demonstrate measurable impacts on target engagement. Submission deadlines span from March 2024 to October 2026. Applications must focus on optimizing doses and identifying patient responders to inform future efficacy trials, aligning with NCCIH's research priorities.

The NCCIH Natural Product Early Phase Clinical Trial Award (R33 Clinical Trial Required) promotes innovative clinical trials on natural products, such as botanicals and dietary supplements. This funding opportunity supports studies that demonstrate significant scientific rationale and preliminary evidence for efficacy. Applications can explore various delivery methods and combinations with existing treatments to enhance outcomes. Funding is available for up to three years, aimed at bridging basic science discoveries into practical clinical applications.

The NCCIH Natural Product Early Phase Clinical Trial Phased Innovation Award supports investigator-initiated clinical trials of natural products, including botanicals and dietary supplements. This funding opportunity aims to validate the pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of these products over three years in a phased approach. Successful trials will provide crucial data for further development and clinical application, emphasizing the importance of scientifically driven research in natural product efficacy.

Grand Traverse Regional Community FoundationThe Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.Giving JAR Scholarship FundAvailable to graduating seniors from Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska or Leelanau Counties that are planning to attend college with a goal of becoming teachers, coaches or other vocations ultimately giving back to youth within the communities they choose to live in. Financial need, academic performance, and community service involvement will be considered.

The Food and Farm Communications Fund's Wildseed Grants program supports grassroots organizations in the U.S. that aim to bring transformative change to food and agricultural systems. With grants ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 for one year, and up to $75,000 for two years, the program emphasizes strategic communications, community engagement, and racial equity. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with the Fund’s mission and have a revenue of less than $3 million.

About MNA

The Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA) stands strong for nurses, patients, and quality healthcare everywhere.

We are 22,000 dedicated RNs and other healthcare professionals in Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, and Iowa, who promote the professional, economic, and personal well-being of nurses through collective action. Our members care for patients in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings.

Since 1905, MNA members have effectively influenced healthcare policy and practice; advocating for social justice and public health, as well as nursing practice and policies that enable nurses to provide the quality care patients deserve.

MNA empowers members to use their collective strength, knowledge, and experience to advance and enhance safe and professional nursing practice, nursing leadership, and community health and well-being, including access to quality healthcare for all.

MNA Foundation Scholarships & Grants

The Minnesota Nurses Association Foundation (MNAF), a non-profit corporation affiliated with the Minnesota Nurses Association, awards scholarships and grants each year to advance the nursing profession and create more opportunities for students to achieve their goals. 

MNA members, members’ dependents and grandchildren, nursing students, and veterans are eligible to apply for MNA Foundation Scholarships.  

40 & 8 Veterans Scholarships

This grant opportunity from the US Department of Health and Human Services aims to explore the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on healthcare safety. It invites applications to investigate how AI systems can enhance patient safety and improve healthcare delivery. Applicants are encouraged to identify both the benefits of AI technologies and the potential risks to ensure safe implementation. This initiative addresses the need for effective, efficient, and affordable healthcare while safeguarding patient welfare.

The Craig Zadan Pathway for Equity in the Arts Grant aims to enhance high school theatre programs in underserved communities. By providing $10,000 grants, this initiative fosters collaboration between students and industry professionals, while promoting performances that address diverse perspectives. The grant encourages schools to select plays that spark important conversations, ensuring inclusivity and representation in the arts. Ultimately, it seeks to inspire students and open doors to future careers in theatre.

The Virginia Randolph Scholarship, established in 1963, honors the legacy of a pioneering educator in Henrico County. Managed by The Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond, this scholarship supports graduating high school seniors who demonstrate academic promise, community service, and financial need. It ensures a lasting tribute to Virginia Randolph’s commitment to education and helps empower the next generation of leaders in the region. Eligible students can receive tuition assistance for higher education pursuits.

The Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Care Physician Fellowship is a one-year program by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society aimed at training neurologists and physiatrists in specialized clinical care for MS patients. Eligible candidates include PGY3 or PGY4 residents from U.S. programs. The fellowship focuses on supervised patient care, multidisciplinary team activities, and professional development, preparing fellows to provide high-quality care and to engage as future leaders in the MS community.

The National MS Society's Institutional Clinician Training Award supports the training of neurologists and physiatrists in comprehensive MS care. This program enhances the skills of postdoctoral fellows through mentorship and specialized training, ensuring they are equipped to provide personalized, high-quality care. The Society aims to foster a community of leaders in MS clinical practice, encouraging active participation in research and volunteer opportunities to improve outcomes for individuals with MS.

Gabby's Dream Scholarship honors the memory of Gabriella Garven, who tragically passed away but chose to be an organ donor, saving five lives. This scholarship aims to support Muskingum County high school seniors pursuing higher education. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher and demonstrate involvement in extracurricular activities. By providing financial assistance, this scholarship helps students achieve their dreams, reflecting Gabby's spirit of kindness and generosity, and empowering them to make a positive impact in their communities.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors.

The Congressman Mark Foley Scholarship for Nursing Education Fund

Must be enrolled in a professional nursing program.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The Walton Mahon Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was created in March 1991 by Union Bank and Trust in recognition of the many years of devoted service which Mr. Walton Mahon gave to the bank. Mr. Mahon worked for Union Bank and Trust for 42 years, serving as President for 25 of those years. He continued to lead the bank after his retirement for another 9 years as a member of the Board of Directors, serving the bank for over 50 years in all.

With their gift, Union Bank and Trust wished to support the college or university education of a Caroline County student or students wishing to pursue a career in business. 

The Rahsaan Roland Kirk Scholarship for the Arts, offered by The Columbus Foundation, honors the legacy of the innovative jazz musician Rahsaan Roland Kirk. This scholarship supports seniors from Columbus City Schools who are pursuing studies in music, music performance, or the arts. With a focus on artistic freedom and excellence, it aims to empower young artists to continue the rich traditions of Black American musical expression while fostering creativity and cultural appreciation in the community.

The Ohio Green Beret Support Group Scholarship, administered by The Columbus Foundation, aims to support Green Berets and their families in Ohio. This scholarship provides financial assistance for postsecondary education and training, including degrees and certifications, to those facing hardships due to military service. By honoring the service and sacrifice of these elite soldiers, the scholarship fosters educational opportunities and long-term support for deserving military families.

The Stop & Shop School Food Pantry Program addresses childhood food insecurity by partnering with schools to establish or support food pantries. More than 9 million children in the U.S. face hunger, and this initiative ensures students from pre-K through college have access to meals, so they can focus on their education rather than their hunger. Currently, new applications are not accepted from schools in Boston or NYC boroughs due to capacity issues.

The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region

The Community Foundation is a devoted advocate for the vitality and well-being of the Rappahannock River Region. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that manages and distributes charitable giving in the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Scholarships

One of The Community Foundation’s strategies for preserving and growing the quality of life in our region is supporting higher education for area students. Generous individuals and families, companies and organizations establish endowed scholarship funds and the proceeds from these funds benefit deserving students. Donors work with foundation staff to determine appropriate criteria for each fund. The Community Foundation currently administers more than fifty scholarship funds.

The William and Susanna Botts Scholarship for Immigrants

The Botts family has been supportive of and advocates for the immigrant community for many years. Susanna taught English as a Second Language in Stafford County schools for eleven years until her retirement in 2010. Since that time, she has continued to work part-time with county ESL students; in addition, she has worked with immigrant families in their homes. Bill provided legal assistance to lawfully represent immigrants in civil matters for many of his 40 years as a legal aid attorney. In 2002, while Executive Director of Rappahannock Legal Services (now Legal Aid Works), he encouraged the Board of Directors to give up all federal funding for the legal aid program so that the organization could represent undocumented immigrants as well. Since 2016, he has served as a volunteer attorney for Baptist-based LUCHA Ministries Immigration Legal Services.

Bill and Susanna have also worked together through Catholic Charities to assist endangered children to come to the United States as refugees from Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. They have worked through their church, Fredericksburg United Methodist, tutoring ESL students at Hugh Mercer Elementary School. All of their efforts have been informed and inspired by their experiences on over a dozen church mission trips to Central America and Mexico.

The Botts believe supporting the educational dreams of immigrant youth will serve not only the immigrant community, but also the community at large. The William and Susanna Botts Scholarship for Immigrants will award at least two annual scholarships of $1,000 to support high achieving and or/highly motivated immigrants or refugees in our community. 

The NIDCD Research Fellowship for Audiologists provides clinical audiologists enrolled in Ph.D. programs with essential research training. This initiative encourages the integration of clinical and translational research, fostering strong research foundations vital for advancing audiology and hearing healthcare. Although applications are not currently being solicited, the program aims to prepare potential candidates for meaningful collaborations and impactful research projects in the biomedical, behavioral, or clinical sciences.

Yellow Dog Studio Memorial Scholarship

The Yellow Dog Studios Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of Mari Zimmerman-Thompson and Christopher Thompson. Mari and Chris became husband and wife in May of 2002. They lived their remaining years together as kindred spirits until July 2, 2015 when a tragic automobile accident took them from their family and friends.

Evaluation Criteria

• Special skills/interests (30)
• Career goals (20)
• Essay (15)
• Letters of recommendation (15)
• Extracurricular activities (5)
• Awards and honors (5)
• Overall involvement in work, school and community activities (5)
• Academic performance (5)

The Art Richards Scholarship Fund of Children In Need, Inc. offers scholarships to graduating clients of Children In Need, empowering them to pursue secondary education in academics or trades. Established in 1998, this fund was inspired by Art Richards' vision to uplift children living in poverty in Washington County, MD. Through local partnerships, the fund supports educational opportunities and honors community values, ensuring every child has the resources needed to thrive.

The Artist’s Palette Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, supports students pursuing careers in cosmetology, aesthetics, barbering, nail technology, and massage therapy. This fund is designed to assist deserving individuals from Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania in achieving their educational goals. Scholarships are made possible by local families and organizations dedicated to enhancing community welfare and honoring significant contributions to the community. Applications open annually from January to April.

The BRAIN Initiative aims to foster innovation in the development of next-generation devices for recording and modulating the human central nervous system. This funding opportunity encourages clinical studies and translational research to create advanced therapeutic and diagnostic devices for neurological disorders. Applicants are advised to submit Letters of Intent 60 days before the proposal deadline. This initiative emphasizes milestones and collaboration with NIH staff throughout the project.