Best Grants for 501(c)(3)

Rochester Area Community Foundation

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission: We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Edward T. Mulligan, MD Memorial Award

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide a loan repayment award to a University of Rochester or Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) medical school graduate who has matched in a surgical residency in the metro-Rochester area.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may only be used to repay medical school loans held by recognized lending institutions such as federally insured banks and credit unions.

This scholarship is a one-time award and is not renewable.

Donor Information

Edward T. Mulligan, MD was a revered Rochester surgeon whose career was shortened by his untimely death in 1975. The award is endowed by the Mulligan Family.

The West Hawai‘i Fund, established by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations in West Hawai‘i, from North Kohala to Ocean View Estates. It aims to enhance community resilience, promote equitable access to services, and strengthen organizational capacity. The fund prioritizes projects that foster connections within the community, ensuring long-term sustainability and vibrant support for local residents. With multiple grant rounds each year, it provides essential resources for impactful community initiatives.

Rochester Area Community Foundation

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission: We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Victor and Janet Salitan BOCES 2 Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide scholarship assistance for BOCES 2 Career and Technical Education students planning to pursue post-secondary education.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

Renewability

This scholarship is a one-time award and is not renewable.

Donor Information

This scholarship was established in 1979 to honor Victor Salitan. Victor served for 30 years as a school district attorney for several school districts and specifically for the Monroe 2-Orleans BOCES.

United Negro College Fund

“A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”®

For more than seven decades, this principle has remained at the heart of UNCF, enabling us to raise more than $5 billion and help more than 500,000 students and counting not just attend college, but thrive, graduate and become leaders.

We do this in three ways: By awarding more than 12,000 students scholarships, worth more than $65 million, each year. By providing financial support to 37 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). And by serving as the nation’s leading advocate for the importance of minority education and community engagement.

MetLife Foundation Legacy Endowed Scholarship

The MetLife Foundation Legacy Endowed Scholarship Program was established by the MetLife Foundation to provide need-based scholarship support to college junior enrolled at US four-year HBCUs. Successful applicants must be currently pursuing a STEM, business, finance, or accounting degree, as a full-time student at a four-year HBCU.

Community Foundation of Monroe County

The Community Foundation of Monroe County (CFMC) builds a thriving, inclusive community through the power of philanthropy. By connecting generous donors with local causes, we help ensure Monroe County remains a place where everyone can thrive. Since our founding, we’ve been a trusted steward of community resources, fostering impactful collaborations and sustainable solutions to address challenges in education, health, poverty, and community development.

Scholarship Opportunities

We award over 120 scholarships each year to Monroe County residents. Whether you’re heading to college, pursuing a technical career, or furthering your education as an adult, there’s a scholarship for you.

Charles and Virginia Whitten Scholarship

For Monroe County high school seniors pursuing skilled trades.

Community Foundation of Monroe County

The Community Foundation of Monroe County (CFMC) builds a thriving, inclusive community through the power of philanthropy. By connecting generous donors with local causes, we help ensure Monroe County remains a place where everyone can thrive. Since our founding, we’ve been a trusted steward of community resources, fostering impactful collaborations and sustainable solutions to address challenges in education, health, poverty, and community development.

Scholarship Opportunities

We award over 120 scholarships each year to Monroe County residents. Whether you’re heading to college, pursuing a technical career, or furthering your education as an adult, there’s a scholarship for you.

Graceful Memories Memorial Endowed Scholarship

For Monroe County residents pursuing a career in medicine.

The Tyndale House Foundation Grant supports faith-driven organizations that align with their mission to serve both Word and Deed. Focused on high-kingdom impact, this grant funds a variety of projects in areas like literature, training, education, compassion, and discipleship. Eligible applicants must be U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations or have a fiscal sponsor if based internationally. Grants are not available for individuals, scholarships, or political projects.

The Chicago Society Foundation Grant aims to enhance the well-being of the Polish American community by supporting cultural, historical, and educational projects. This private charitable organization is dedicated to philanthropic assistance tailored for individuals and organizations of Polish heritage. Through various fundraising efforts, including Casino Nights, the Foundation has successfully maintained its financial health, allowing it to provide ongoing support to worthy recipients. Grants are awarded based on specific eligibility criteria, excluding construction projects.

The James A. Welch Foundation, established in 1960, has committed over two million dollars to enhance educational opportunities for gifted students in Flint and Genesee County, Michigan. Recognizing the increasing complexity of educational pathways, the Foundation encourages initiatives that identify and support academically and creatively talented youth. By fostering growth and development, the Foundation aims to nurture a community of learners prepared to thrive in a dynamic global society.

The Messerli And Kramer Foundation Grant aims to support Minnesota communities in addressing educational disparities faced by low-income and disadvantaged children and youth. Established in 2005, the foundation is guided by a diverse board involved in charitable initiatives. It seeks to fund organizations that are 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profits committed to making a meaningful impact in education for underserved populations.

The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts Grant supports innovative visual arts projects through a diverse grantmaking program. It funds artists and organizations that challenge the status quo and promote inclusivity in the contemporary art landscape. Grants are available for curatorial research, exhibitions, and public programs, encouraging creativity and exploration. The foundation prioritizes projects that reflect the diverse population of the United States and reject bigotry, fostering an environment of free expression and artistic growth.

The Summer Fund Grant, established in 1971 by Philanthropy Massachusetts, supports summer camps and enrichment programs for underserved youth in Greater Boston. It offers General Operating Grants to help nonprofits with operational costs, alongside a Mental Health Grant Program addressing youth mental health needs and the Homeless Campership Fund, which subsidizes camp fees for homeless youth. Eligible organizations must meet specific criteria, ensuring impactful support for local communities.

The Aasheim Family Leadership Scholarship at Montana State University supports high-achieving students pursuing a degree in Agriculture. This merit-based scholarship is available to Montana high school graduates who demonstrate leadership and community involvement, maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0. Award amounts vary, providing financial assistance to help students succeed in their academic journeys.

The Synthomer Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations across the U.S. in education, health, civic initiatives, and the arts. With a legacy spanning over 60 years, the Foundation has awarded $1.3 million in 2024 alone to enhance community well-being. Organizations must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) to qualify, while those that discriminate or engage in political activities are ineligible. Through financial support and volunteerism, the Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities and fostering a culture of giving.

The William T. Sloper Trust for Andrew J. Sloper Musical Fund Grant aims to enhance musical culture in New Britain, Connecticut. Established in 1937, it supports local organizations that conduct high-quality musical performances, including orchestras and choral groups. Grants are limited to one year and applicants must serve the New Britain community, ensuring that performances occur locally. Preference is given to organizations demonstrating exceptional merit in their musical offerings.

The Mitsubishi Electric America Foundation (MEAF) National Grant funds innovative projects that empower youth with disabilities, enhancing their leadership and employment skills. Grants typically range from $10K to $100K per year for one to two years. MEAF seeks proposals that break down employment barriers, support U.S. youth with disabilities, and promote inclusive practices. Projects should demonstrate a plan for national dissemination and measurable outcomes, particularly benefiting young veterans transitioning to civilian life.

The Luce Indigenous Knowledge Fellowship, launched by the First Nations Development Institute and the Henry Luce Foundation, supports Native knowledge holders and makers in their transformative work. With ten fellowships of $75,000 each, this two-year program fosters growth and collaboration across diverse fields such as agriculture, climate change, and cultural revitalization. Fellows will engage in community-building through required convenings, enhancing their leadership skills and professional networks to benefit Native communities.

Public Wise Grants aims to enhance democracy by providing unrestricted operational funding to organizations committed to voting rights. Established in 2019, Public Wise focuses on grassroots efforts to ensure equitable representation and access to the ballot, particularly in key states like Michigan and Georgia. Their mission is to empower communities, combat voter suppression, and strengthen democratic participation through education and partnership.

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 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 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 AAACF Community Scholarship, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, provides vital financial support to eligible students in Washtenaw County. This scholarship aims to assist Pell Grant-eligible students, youth of color, and first-generation college graduates who are recent high school graduates. With a minimum GPA of 2.0, recipients can pursue their post-secondary education and contribute positively to their communities. Over $650,000 was awarded in 2025 across various scholarship funds.

The Sylvia Parkinson Fund, established in 1975, supports medical students at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine who plan to practice in the Hartford area. Administered by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, this fund awards 4 to 8 scholarships annually, contributing to the education of deserving students pursuing careers in medicine. The Hartford Foundation has a long-standing commitment to supporting higher education, having awarded nearly $30 million since 1945.

The Stanley D. and Hinda N. Fisher Scholarship Fund, established by the Fisher Family Foundation, supports local students from the Greater Hartford area pursuing a four-year college degree. As part of the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving's Scholarship Program, it aims to foster academic achievement and community involvement. Since 1945, the program has awarded nearly $30 million in scholarships to help students access higher education opportunities. One award is available for eligible candidates.

The South Asian Bar Association Endowed Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports summer public interest fellowships for law students of South Asian descent or those committed to serving the South Asian community. Eligible applicants must be enrolled at select law schools and demonstrate financial need. This initiative enhances opportunities for underrepresented students while fostering community engagement and legal advocacy within the South Asian community.

The Shyaam Bachman Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, honors a dedicated science teacher and supports Black/African American males from the Greater Hartford area. This fund assists students with financial need who are graduating high school and planning to pursue a degree in a science-related field. With a history of awarding nearly $30 million in scholarships since 1945, the foundation continues to empower local students in their educational journeys.

The Samuel A. Roth Scholarship Fund, established by friends and family to honor Mr. Roth's tenure as Superintendent of Schools in East Haddam, awards scholarships to seniors from Griswold, Weaver, and Nathan Hale-Ray high schools. Since 1945, the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving has facilitated this program, granting nearly $30 million to students pursuing higher education. This scholarship emphasizes well-rounded candidates who possess an interest in athletics and academic dedication.