Best Grants for 501(c)(3)

The Foundations in Industry Training (FIT) Grant Program aims to enhance apprenticeship opportunities in Pennsylvania by supporting registered programs. It provides funding for eligible applicants to cover instructional costs that complement on-the-job training. The program allows sponsors to request up to $3,000 per apprentice annually for a maximum of three years, enabling employers to recruit and develop talent effectively. For detailed guidelines, refer to the FAQs provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.

The Phyllis Utterback Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, provides a $2,000 award to a senior student attending a Howard County public school. This scholarship prioritizes students who demonstrate a commitment to education and family, and who plan to pursue a degree in secondary education. Eligible applicants must maintain an unweighted GPA of 3.0 or higher through their junior year and into their first semester of senior year.

The Kids Run the Nation Grant Fund, managed by the RRCA, offers financial support to running clubs, schools, and nonprofits that promote inclusive youth running programs. Since 2007, the fund has awarded over $385,000 to 495+ programs, helping more than 198,500 children embrace running. Grants between $500 and $1,000 are available for structured, gender-inclusive programs that meet specific criteria, encouraging healthy lifestyles and regular participation in running activities.

The Arts Alive! Individual Artist Grants, offered by the Weld Community Foundation, support emerging artists in Weld County, enabling them to advance their artistic careers. This initiative encourages projects that enhance cultural experiences and access to the arts in the community. Applicants must be legal residents of Weld County and at least 18 years old, having resided there for a minimum of 12 months. Note that travel expenses are typically not funded.

The Gary J. and Boyd A. Smith Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. This scholarship aims to assist those who demonstrate financial need, ensuring access to quality education. Founded in 1893, MSU is a prestigious institution dedicated to transformative higher education, focusing on the mission of education, research, and outreach. This scholarship exemplifies MSU's commitment to fostering future educators.

PetSmart Charities

We’re proud to celebrate over 30 years of being the leading funder of animal welfare in communities across North America. Since 1994, we’ve granted over $600 million to change-making organizations that help transform the lives of pets and those who love them.

Our Mission: We make the world a better place for pets by investing in community partners that advocate and care for the well-being of pets and all who love them.

Adoption Growth Grants 

Purpose

Adoption Growth grants drive lifesaving outcomes by supporting successful, sustainable in-store adoption programs, events, and results in partnership with PetSmart stores.

Funding Support

Funding may be used for costs associated with building or enhancing your organization’s adoption program in partnership with PetSmart stores, including:

• Staff positions supporting in-store adoption programs and events.
• Marketing and advertising for in-store adoption programs.
• Volunteer or foster support, incentives, and recruitment related to in-store adoption events.
• Event supplies, including containment and enrichment materials.
• Shelter software and technology needs.
• Vehicle repairs or transportation to adoption events.
• Innovative in-store adoption ideas and pilot programs.
• Other costs directly associated with facilitating PetSmart adoptions and in-store events.

There are two Cohorts under this funding: Cohort 1-  Accelerating in-store adoptions; and Cohort 2: Capacity Building.

Cohort 2: Capacity Building

Applicants must have completed at least one adoption in a PetSmart store within the last 12 months.

Preference will be given to organizations seeking to build a consistent, sustainable in-store adoption program. Applications should include a clear plan, with examples, for sustaining the program over time.

Four Required Steps

Applicants must complete all four required steps below before submitting a grant application:

• Step 1 - Watch the kick-off video and complete the Adoption Accessibility Questionnaire
• Step 2 - Confirm eligibility and connect with your Adoptions Grant Manager: After completing the questionnaire, you will receive an email confirming your eligibility. Eligible partners will be invited to a call with their Adoptions Grant Manager to discuss the grant opportunity, expectations, and potential fit.
• Step 3 - Engage your PetSmart store partners: Discuss your intent to apply, align on goals, and gain their commitment to support the success of your in-store adoption program.
• Step 4-  Submit your application.

The Gary Bracken Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees from the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Established in 1893, MSU has a long-standing commitment to education and community transformation through scholarships. This opportunity is available to incoming students, encouraging them to embark on their academic journey in business. With a focus on accessibility and excellence, the scholarship aims to empower future leaders in the field.

PetSmart Charities

We’re proud to celebrate over 30 years of being the leading funder of animal welfare in communities across North America. Since 1994, we’ve granted over $600 million to change-making organizations that help transform the lives of pets and those who love them.

Our Mission: We make the world a better place for pets by investing in community partners that advocate and care for the well-being of pets and all who love them.

Adoption Growth Grants 

Purpose

Adoption Growth grants drive lifesaving outcomes by supporting successful, sustainable in-store adoption programs, events, and results in partnership with PetSmart stores.

Funding Support

Funding may be used for costs associated with building or enhancing your organization’s adoption program in partnership with PetSmart stores, including:

• Staff positions supporting in-store adoption programs and events.
• Marketing and advertising for in-store adoption programs.
• Volunteer or foster support, incentives, and recruitment related to in-store adoption events.
• Event supplies, including containment and enrichment materials.
• Shelter software and technology needs.
• Vehicle repairs or transportation to adoption events.
• Innovative in-store adoption ideas and pilot programs.
• Other costs directly associated with facilitating PetSmart adoptions and in-store events.

There are two Cohorts under this funding: Cohort 1-  Accelerating in-store adoptions; and Cohort 2: Capacity Building.

Cohort 1- Accelerating in-store Adoptions

Applicants must have completed 500 or more adoptions in a PetSmart store in the U.S. within the last 12 months.

Preference will be given to organizations that demonstrate a clear plan to expand an existing in-store adoption program or introduce new in-store adoption models that will increase adoptions.

Four Required Steps

Applicants must complete all four required steps below before submitting a grant application:

• Step 1 - Watch the kick-off video and complete the Adoption Accessibility Questionnaire
• Step 2 - Confirm eligibility and connect with your Adoptions Grant Manager: After completing the questionnaire, you will receive an email confirming your eligibility. Eligible partners will be invited to a call with their Adoptions Grant Manager to discuss the grant opportunity, expectations, and potential fit.
• Step 3 - Engage your PetSmart store partners: Discuss your intent to apply, align on goals, and gain their commitment to support the success of your in-store adoption program.
• Step 4-  Submit your application.

The Garsjo-Bartram Family Scholarship at Montana State University supports incoming freshmen who are graduates of Valley County high schools. Established to promote education, this scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to transforming lives through accessible higher education. Students pursuing degrees at MSU can benefit from this opportunity, furthering their academic and personal growth while contributing to their communities.

The Gallatin Valley Ag Committee Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing a degree in Agriculture. Applicants must be Montana high school graduates, undergraduate students with a minimum 2.5 GPA, and demonstrate leadership and community involvement. Preference is given to graduates from Gallatin County. This scholarship aims to foster academic excellence and community engagement among future agricultural leaders.

The Investigator Initiated Research Grant Program, offered by the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Foundation, supports doctoral-level researchers addressing critical health-related research gaps. Eligible applicants include primary investigators with medical or doctoral-level credentials based in Michigan's nonprofit hospitals and universities. This program emphasizes evidence-based research to improve health outcomes while ensuring effective resource utilization, thereby enhancing healthcare access and quality for Michigan residents.

The Gallatin Lodge 6 Scholarship at Montana State University supports first-generation college students pursuing a degree in nursing. Established in 1893, MSU provides transformative educational opportunities. This scholarship is specifically aimed at Montana high school graduates, enhancing access to higher education for those who may face financial barriers. With a limited number of awards available, this initiative emphasizes the importance of community support and investment in the future of nursing professionals in Montana.

The Gallatin Lodge 6 Masonic Scholarship at Montana State University is aimed at supporting local students pursuing degrees or certificates at Gallatin College. Applicants must be Montana residents with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Preference is given to those demonstrating financial need and who are graduates of Montana high schools or possess a GED. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to accessible higher education and community transformation.

The Southern SARE: Professional Development Grants support educational initiatives for agricultural professionals, enhancing outreach and training efforts directly benefiting farmers and ranchers. These grants fund diverse training activities, including workshops and farm tours, aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture through effective participatory methods. Projects are encouraged to involve multi-disciplinary partnerships and the participation of land-grant institutions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to agricultural education. Priority is given to projects with budgets under $80,000, fostering a broad array of impactful initiatives.

The Gallatin College MSU Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees or certificates from Gallatin College. This scholarship is part of the college's commitment to workforce development and aims to provide financial assistance to incoming students. Established in 1893, MSU has a rich history of transforming lives through education, research, and outreach. A limited number of scholarships are available, reflecting MSU's dedication to accessible higher education.

The Fulfilling Potential Program Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees or certificates at Gallatin College. It emphasizes financial need and residency in Gallatin or Park County, Montana. This scholarship is part of MSU's commitment to providing transformative educational opportunities, fostering workforce development, and ensuring access to higher education for deserving students. With limited availability, it aims to uplift local communities by empowering students to achieve their academic goals.

The George A. Clemow Scholarship in Mechanical Engineering at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering. This scholarship is available to junior or senior students, with a preference for residents of Big Horn or Yellowstone County, Montana. It aims to promote educational access and success for those dedicated to engineering, reflecting MSU's commitment to transforming lives through higher education.

Dabo's All in Team Foundation Grant Program aims to support local South Carolina organizations in need of financial assistance for projects that align with its mission to address critical education and health issues. By providing funding opportunities, the program seeks to empower organizations with innovative solutions that can positively impact their communities. This initiative fosters collaboration among groups dedicated to improving lives across the state, ensuring that valuable ideas receive the support they deserve.

The Gene Donaldson Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing a degree in Agriculture. This scholarship is available to Montana high school graduates who are juniors or seniors and actively involved in their communities. It reflects MSU's commitment to education and transformative opportunities for students. With limited awards for incoming students, this scholarship aims to foster academic success and community engagement within the agricultural field.

The WDA Foundation Annual Grant Program provides financial support to non-profit programs that enhance oral health for low-income residents in Wisconsin. Applications are open to 501(c)(3) organizations operating within the state, focusing on increasing access to dental care. The program aims to foster volunteerism and educate communities about oral health. Notably, funding excludes individuals and certain expenses, ensuring resources are dedicated to direct support of oral health initiatives.

The Administration for Children and Families invites applications for Head Start and/or Early Head Start services in Cabarrus County, NC. With an annual funding of $1,270,165, this opportunity supports organizations aiming to aid local families and children. Interested parties can reach out to the OHS Operations Center or visit relevant links for comprehensive application guidance. This initiative emphasizes community involvement and aims to enhance early childhood education and support services.

The Gene and Marlys Cook Engineering Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in engineering. Established in 1893, MSU is dedicated to providing transformative education and research opportunities. This scholarship is part of the university's commitment to offering financial assistance to incoming students, promoting academic excellence and fostering future engineers. The award reflects MSU's mission to empower students and enhance community development through education.

The Farmers Advocating for Organic Grant (FAFO) supports impactful projects that enhance the organic agricultural sector, focusing on initiatives that assist family farmers and promote organic soil health. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and research institutions. FAFO prioritizes projects that address the needs of organic dairy, meat, and produce farmers while fostering cooperative growth. This grant aims to strengthen the organic industry and ensure the livelihood of organic farmers across the nation.

The Geir Stoner Memorial Music Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in music, emphasizing financial need and academic success. Eligible candidates must be sophomores, juniors, or seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a strong commitment to achieving their goals. This scholarship not only aids in financial support but also fosters a passion for music within the community, aligning with MSU's mission to transform lives through education.

The Gates Family Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in Agriculture. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. This scholarship aims to aid undergraduate students and is part of the university's broader commitment to providing transformative educational opportunities. With limited availability for incoming students, it stands as a vital resource for those eager to embark on their agricultural studies.

The Artist Resource Trust (A.R.T.) Fund for Organizations Grant supports mid-career visual artists (aged 35+) in New England and parts of New York. Established in 1996, it provides annual funding to nonprofit organizations for commissions, purchases, or engagements with these artists. Eligible organizations must match funds 1:1 in cash and have specific geographic ties. The grant emphasizes quality and commitment in artistic work, aiding in the growth and visibility of mature artists.

The B.A.A. Gives Back Grant Program, established by the Boston Athletic Association, supports nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts that promote health and fitness through running. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 are awarded annually to initiatives that enhance community engagement and wellness. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) registered or public agencies and align with the B.A.A.’s mission to foster healthy lifestyles. This initiative plays a crucial role in expanding access to sports and building vibrant communities across Greater Boston.