Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Florida

The Women in Rhetoric and Logic Scholarship, established by the Sandia Foundation, supports female students from Albuquerque Academy pursuing higher education in the U.S. This one-time, non-renewable award of up to $3,000 aims to empower young women by alleviating financial burdens associated with college. Applicants must present a high school transcript, a résumé, a personal essay detailing their college aspirations, and a letter of reference. Preference is given to those with debate team experience.

The Fellowship Training Award by the Rheumatology Research Foundation aims to enhance the rheumatology workforce by supporting fellows in ACGME-accredited training programs. The award provides $50,000 per year for up to three years, ensuring a steady supply of qualified rheumatology providers and educators. Special emphasis is placed on supporting underrepresented populations in medicine. This initiative is crucial for improving patient care in rheumatic diseases across diverse communities.

The Fellowship Training Award for Workforce Expansion, offered by the Rheumatology Research Foundation, aims to improve access to rheumatology care by supporting the training of fellows at institutions facing funding constraints. This $50,000 per year award, available for up to three years, seeks to ensure a sufficient supply of rheumatology providers, particularly in underserved areas, thereby enhancing the quality of care for patients with rheumatic diseases.

This grant aims to enhance global polio eradication efforts through innovative modeling approaches. It focuses on developing effective strategies for cVDPV2 outbreak response and optimizing surveillance following global WPV eradication. The initiative also seeks to build a skilled public health workforce in statistical and mathematical modeling, assess economic impacts of response strategies, and foster capacity among students to address polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

The Pediatric Rheumatology Fellow Research Award, offered by the Rheumatology Research Foundation, recognizes exemplary scientific abstracts from pediatric rheumatology fellows at ACR Convergence. With a $1,500 award and an additional $1,000 for travel expenses, this initiative aims to promote innovative research and enhance educational opportunities for future rheumatologists. The program underscores the importance of developing a skilled workforce to improve access to specialized care for patients with rheumatic diseases.

The Career Development Bridge Funding Award from the Rheumatology Research Foundation aims to support early and mid-career researchers facing funding challenges. This program provides $200,000 over two years to help investigators refine their NIH or equivalent grant applications while pursuing innovative research in rheumatic diseases. By fostering the next generation of rheumatologists, the foundation seeks to enhance patient care and advance treatment options for those affected by these conditions.

The Scientist Development Award from the Rheumatology Research Foundation supports early career professionals in rheumatology research. This award provides funding for salary and research training, aiming to enhance the skills of trainees and ensure a robust workforce in rheumatology. With a maximum of $75,000 per year, this initiative encourages innovative research and mentorship opportunities to improve treatment options for patients with rheumatic diseases.

BAE Systems offers community investment grants aimed at enhancing the well-being of military families and supporting future workforce development in STEM fields. As a U.S. subsidiary of a global defense and aerospace leader, they require applicants to be recognized 501(c) organizations. The initiative underscores a commitment to charitable partnerships that uplift local communities and contribute positively to society.

The Native American Agriculture Fund (NAAF) offers grants to support Native farmers and ranchers through business assistance, agricultural education, technical support, and advocacy services. Established from the Keepseagle v. Vilsack settlement, NAAF is committed to providing essential resources to eligible organizations, including 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and tribal governments. Special focuses include inflation assistance and market access, ensuring a holistic approach to agricultural support.

The Ralph W. Shrader Graduate Scholarship offers $3,000 to full-time graduate students in STEM-related fields at accredited U.S. institutions. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, enrolled in their second semester, and maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher. The scholarship supports tuition and course-related expenses, encouraging students with financial needs to further their education. Notably, the expected graduation date cannot coincide with the award year, ensuring students are committed to their studies.

The Thakkar Family Foundation, a private organization, is committed to supporting individuals and organizations in academics, medical, athletics, and the arts within Highlands County, Florida, Tampa Bay, and Charlotte, North Carolina. Founded by the Thakkar family, the foundation emphasizes approachability, inspiration, and investment in community-driven initiatives. Through their grants, they aim to foster a sense of family among recipients, encouraging collaboration and support in various community endeavors.

Napa Valley Community Foundation

There are more than 800 Community Foundations in the US, each devoted to a specific region. We operate independently, with a common goal in mind: to be a platform for local people who want to pay it forward. To deliver resources to effective charitable programs. And to make our communities stronger and more successful by doing these two things.

Among our peers, Napa Valley Community Foundation ranks first on several key measures of donor satisfaction and impact, according to a recent donor survey conducted by the Center for Effective Philanthropy. Our donors say that we deeply understand their interests, and deeply understand the needs of Napa Valley. That, in a nutshell, is our job.

Ted Kohler Music Scholarship

The Ted Kohler Music Scholarship benefits Calistoga students who are committed to music and wish to advance their musical development. The scholarship can be used to pay for activities such as music lessons or summer camp, or for college tuition (where the student demonstrates their desire to continue their musical education). The Ted Kohler Scholarship was established in 1997 to promote musical participation and aspirations in honor of Ted, who upon retirement from San Francisco State University, became a full-time musician and leader of the Napa Valley Jazz Band. He encouraged people of all ages to express themselves musically.

The James Ledwith Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 2011 by the Albuquerque Community Foundation, supports high school graduates from the Albuquerque Metro Area who have faced extraordinary challenges. This scholarship awards up to $2,000 to those pursuing post-secondary education while demonstrating hope, faith, and courage. Applicants must submit letters of reference and a personal essay outlining their life dreams and challenges. One to two scholarships are awarded annually, promoting resilience and personal growth in the face of adversity.

The Amscot Grant aims to enhance opportunities for Florida's children by supporting local 501(c)(3) organizations. By funding initiatives focused on education, enrichment, and safety, Amscot seeks to empower children and families in communities where it operates. Organizations are encouraged to share their stories and demonstrate how funding will help them create brighter futures. This commitment aligns with Amscot's mission to foster stronger communities across the state.

The Manatee Community Foundation offers competitive grants aimed at enhancing arts and culture for youth in the community. Their mission focuses on supporting youth music, theater, dance programs, and public art projects, alongside promoting arts access for underrepresented groups. With a commitment to inclusivity and community growth, they prioritize organizations that have demonstrated success and strong governance. The foundation has invested over $65 million in local communities, emphasizing sustainable practices and addressing the needs of Manatee County residents.

The O'Jays Scholarship Fund, established by the Stark Community Foundation, supports Stark County seniors graduating high school or residents with a GED pursuing higher education. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate financial need. This initiative reflects the Foundation's long-standing commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and addressing community challenges since its inception in 1963. The program aims to empower students to achieve their academic goals and improve their futures.

The MyGOAL Autism Grant Program provides essential financial support for families caring for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. This need-based grant assists with non-reimbursable medical expenses, nutritional needs, personal care, and educational enrichment activities. With a funding amount of $1000, the program prioritizes first-time applicants and aims to enhance the well-being and development of children with ASD, addressing gaps left by other funding sources.

The CNL Charitable Foundation Grants, initiated by CNL Financial Group founder Jim Seneff, aim to enhance community well-being in Central Florida. These grants support 501(c)(3) charities and government institutions, focusing on education, leadership and entrepreneurship, arts and culture, and homelessness and poverty. With a commitment to community transformation, CNL prioritizes organizations that foster broad funding and engage CNL associates, reflecting a dedication to sustainable and impactful philanthropic efforts.

The NC Hunter and Jumper Association’s Norah Morris Memorial Scholarship Endowment supports individuals pursuing higher education who have engaged in equestrian activities. Open to undergraduates, graduates, and adult re-entry students, the scholarship aims to assist those attending various educational institutions in the United States. Applications for NCCF scholarships will be accepted from December 16, 2025, to March 3, 2026. Be sure to check specific eligibility requirements for each scholarship.

Nurses Educational Funds

Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. depends solely on donations to advance our only mission, to promote nursing leadership through annual scholarship support for professional nurses seeking masters and doctoral degrees in nursing education, practice, research, and administration.

NEF’s only purpose is to provide nursing scholarship assistance to make graduate level nursing education possible. NEF is one of the largest, national, private, professionally endorsed source of funds for advanced nursing study with over one hundred years of service to and for professional nursing. NEF is a non-profit organization with 501(c) status.

Martha Rodriguez Scholarship Fund

Martha Rodriguez Memorial Scholarship was initiated in 2025 by Lisa Ackerman, close friend and then Director of the Columbus Citizens Foundation. Raised in Gary, Indiana and a true New Yorker, Martha died as the result of traumatic head injuries from a tragic accident just outside her NYC apartment. Martha Rodriguez gave in life, working as a nurse helping patients navigate the trauma of breast cancer at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. In her death, she was lauded by the President of LiveOnNY, an organization that coordinates and oversees organ donations, for her last selfless act of giving. Martha donated organs that gave life and hope and helped three people lead better lives. Her zest for life was contagious, and her dedication, compassion, and expertise left an indelible mark on the lives of countless MSKCC patients and caregivers. She was a friend and mentor to many. She loved being a nurse at MSKCC and worked for more than 28 years as a nurse practitioner and for the last 15 years of her life dealing with breast cancer patients. This scholarship is awarded to nurses studying in master's or doctoral programs who are dedicated to oncology care, or women’s health, or are Latinx nurses.

The Joyce Price Johnson’s Samaritan Fund provides scholarships for young people in North Carolina who are exiting foster care or facing poverty. Eligible candidates include undergraduates, graduates, and adult re-entry students attending various accredited institutions. Applications for NCCF scholarships open on December 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026. Preference is given to applicants from Wayne County and adjacent areas, ensuring support for those with exceptional financial need.

The AISES RISE Scholarship offers $2,000 annually to support Indigenous students pursuing careers in STEM, particularly in the casino gaming industry. This initiative, powered by Aristocrat Gaming, aims to empower Indigenous talent through exposure, resources, and programming. Eligible applicants must be full-time students and current AISES members, demonstrating a commitment to their education and community. The scholarship seeks to enhance diversity in STEM fields by providing critical financial support to deserving students.

The Clark and Ruby Baker Foundation Grant aims to support charitable organizations that align with the philanthropic mission of the Baker family, focusing on Methodist-affiliated educational institutions, aid for disadvantaged children, and assistance for the sick in Georgia. The Foundation considers funding for construction projects of educational and medical facilities, ensuring that grants are awarded to meet specific community needs and promote long-term benefits.

The Jeannett Slesnick Community Spirit Scholarship offers up to four years of college tuition assistance for graduating seniors from Coral Gables High School, Miami Senior High School, or ISPA. Applicants should demonstrate an interest in communications, journalism, leadership, or historic preservation, and must maintain a 3.0 GPA. Established in 2022 by Jeannett and Don Slesnick, this scholarship honors Jeannett's commitment to community service and education, supporting local high school graduates in their academic pursuits.

The DGF Bridge Grants provide essential financial support of $500 to professional dramatists facing hardships. This one-time award helps cover non-emergency daily expenses such as housing, utilities, and healthcare. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based dramatists with limited financial resources and have not previously received a DGF Bridge Grant. By nurturing today's creators, DGF ensures the continuation of impactful storytelling in the theater community.

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

LinkScholars Program Scholarship ($2,000) 

This renewable scholarship supports graduating high school seniors from Fairfield, Kershaw, Lexington, Richland, or Sumter counties in South Carolina.

The Gabriella Miller Kids First Pediatric Research Program invites applications for whole genome sequencing of pediatric cohorts. This initiative aims to explore the genetic basis of childhood cancers and congenital anomalies, enhancing our understanding of their etiology. Researchers are encouraged to propose sequencing methods, including whole genome and exome sequencing, to investigate genetic contributions and associations with cancer risk. The resulting data will be integrated into the Kids First Data Resource for broader research collaboration.