Best Grants for BIPOC

Stark Community Foundation

Since 1963, Stark Community Foundation has been helping individuals, families, businesses and nonprofits like you support the causes you care about.

In addition to personalized donor services, we manage a competitive grantmaking program and award grants to address local needs. Today, the Foundation stewards over 1,000 charitable funds totaling $485 million in assets and has granted more than $300 million to nonprofits in our community and beyond.

Scholarships

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties.

The Manzer-Keener-Wefler Scholarship Fund

The Manzer-Keener-Wefler Scholarship Fund assists applicants with a field of study in or related to photography, visual arts (including graphic design). 

This scholarship is renewable.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Robert L. & Marjory J. Nelson Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to students pursuing a career in the medical field of study with a preference to those students entering the field of nursing.

Marjory Nelson (1928-1998) received her bachelor of arts degree from Aurora University and her R.N. certification from the Copley Hospital School of Nursing.

She also undertook additional graduate studies at Northern Illinois University and the National College of Education.

She was employed by Copley Memorial Hospital and later served as a nurse for the East Aurora Schools.

This fund was created by Mrs. Nelson’s family and friends to provide recognition of her extraordinary dedication to the field of nursing.

Upon the passing of her husband Robert, the Nelson family added his name to the fund.

Robert Nelson (1924-2015) was a veteran of World War II. He served with the Navy in Europe and the Marines in the Pacific.

He worked in the field of education and was a retired principal in School District 44 in Lombard, Illinois.

Mr. and Mrs. Nelson were survived by two daughters and three grandchildren.

Created in 2004, the fund became an endowment in 2005.

The Lily Smith Memorial Scholarship, established by the Central Kentucky Community Foundation, supports high school graduates from Nelson County pursuing a nursing degree. Founded in 1960, the foundation is committed to enhancing community well-being through philanthropy. This scholarship exemplifies their mission by providing financial assistance to future nurses, ensuring that local talent is nurtured and prepared to meet healthcare needs. The initiative reflects a deep commitment to education and community service.

The Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program, managed by the Delaware State Housing Authority, provides essential funding for homelessness prevention and street outreach activities. It aims to enhance emergency shelters and reduce homelessness through rapid rehousing initiatives. Grants are available to local governments and non-profit organizations, supporting a wide range of activities to ensure safe and sanitary shelter for vulnerable populations. This program is critical in addressing homelessness in Delaware.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Theodore Silseth Nelson Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to students returning to school after a lapse of several years since high school graduation. The awards are given to students pursuing a two or four-year degree in health care, with a preference for both financial need and students seeking a registered nurse certification. Theodore Nelson (1937-2017) was employed as a large commercial account underwriter in the insurance industry. He created this fund out of respect for the competency of those in the healthcare profession and to encourage those who wish to improve themselves by returning to school after being in the workforce. 

The Richard G. Gilbert Educational Fund, established by the Stark Community Foundation, supports Stark County students pursuing a business degree at Walsh University, Malone University, or the University of Mount Union. Eligible applicants must have completed at least one year of study in a business major and demonstrate financial need. This fund aims to empower local students and foster educational growth within the community, continuing the Foundation's legacy of philanthropy since 1963.

The Pittsburgh Foundation offers Arts and Culture Grants to support small and mid-size arts organizations in Allegheny County. Established in 1945, the foundation focuses on equitable grantmaking in areas like arts, culture, and social justice. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $150,000, aimed at enhancing community engagement through artistic expression and cultural exchange. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities and prioritize those addressing social injustices and serving underserved communities.

ALDOT

The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) manages statewide transportation and administers Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funds through programs such as Section 5311, which supports rural public transportation, and Section 5310, which serves seniors and individuals with disabilities. ALDOT, through its Transit Section and initiatives like RTAP & ALTRANS, is dedicated to ensuring communities across Alabama have access to safe, reliable, and equitable transportation services, while providing critical support to transit providers throughout the state.

Section 5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Program 

The Local Transportation Bureau of the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) is now accepting Applications for funding through the Section 5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Program. This program is supported by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and offers funding to help provide transit services for the State’s population of senior citizens and individuals with disabilities.

Those eligible may apply for Capital Assistance. For Capital Assistance through the Section 5310 Program, funding is provided with an 80/20 split: FTA/Provider respectively.

The State Maternal Health Innovation Program (SMHI) aims to enhance maternal health across states by addressing critical gaps. It focuses on improving service quality, developing a skilled workforce, and utilizing enhanced data capabilities. Through innovative programming, the initiative strives to significantly reduce maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity, ensuring better health outcomes for mothers and their families.

State Funded Highway-Railroad Crossings Program

KDOT offers several highway-railroad funding opportunities to improve safety at highway/railroad crossings. These include: 

Highway/Railroad Crossing Program Safety Funds: This federal-aid program finances up to 100% of the cost for installing protective devices and eliminating hazards at public highway/railroad grade crossings. Crossings are prioritized based on a hazard index that considers highway and train traffic, as well as warning devices. 

Railroad Crossing Surfacing: This program focuses on improving the surfaces and approaches of at-grade crossings on rural state highways and City Connecting Links in small cities. Funding is split 50/50 between the state and railroad companies. 

State Funded Highway/Railroad Crossing: This state-funded program allocates $300,000 annually for projects that don't qualify for federal aid. Projects are funded with 80% state funds and 20% railroad company funds. 

Elevations Foundation Community Grants support Front Range nonprofits with funding between $5,000 and $10,000. The program prioritizes organizations focused on mental health and affordable housing, particularly those with operating budgets under $1 million and $3 million, respectively. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving specific Colorado counties, including Adams, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Jefferson, Larimer, and Weld. This initiative aims to strengthen communities through targeted financial assistance.

The Park Pride Large Capital Improvements Grants support transformative projects in Atlanta's parks, providing funding between $2,500 and $100,000. To apply, Friends of the Park groups must submit a Grant Questionnaire and meet specific eligibility criteria, including nonprofit status and project type. Examples of eligible projects include playgrounds, exercise equipment, and walking trails. This competitive grant aims to enhance community spaces and promote public access to improved park facilities.

The CCR&R SRTC Workforce Echo Grant aims to support childcare providers in Louisiana by offering workforce retention funds. Qualified centers can receive approximately $1,000 for bonuses or salary subsidies, applicable to various childcare staff roles. The grant is specifically for Type I, II, or III centers and Family Childcare Centers with academic approval, located in designated parishes. This funding is made possible through Louisiana School Readiness Tax Credits.

The Duff McDuff Green, Jr. Fund supports nonprofit organizations in Planning District 16, focusing on recreation, youth development, and cultural preservation. Grants are available for projects promoting outdoor activities, improving youth quality of life, and conserving local historical artifacts. Eligible applicants are tax-exempt nonprofits. The fund aims to foster community engagement while addressing pressing local needs. Funding requests over $7,500 are considered for impactful initiatives that align with these priorities, enhancing the region's cultural and recreational landscape.

The Early College Planning Grant aims to provide essential planning resources for applicants seeking Massachusetts Early College Designation. This grant prioritizes underrepresented students and supports partnerships between K-12 schools and higher education institutions. Eligible programs can apply for funding to develop infrastructure that fosters college access and success, with funding totals reaching approximately $1,105,000 for the fiscal year. Key deadlines for submissions are set for October 2025 and November 2025.

Homeless Crisis Response Program

The goal of the HCRP is to prevent individuals and families from experiencing homelessness and, when homelessness does occur, to provide for emergency shelter operations and to rapidly move persons from emergency shelter into permanent housing.

The HCRP is divided into two components: 1) emergency shelter operations; and 2) homelessness prevention and rapid re-housing activities. Funding is a formula-based model that promotes service coverage throughout the state.

Homelessness prevention and rapid re-housing activities are limited to households below 30% area median income (AMI). Both components are awarded on an allocation basis, assuming grantees meet performance standards.

Grant funds are awarded on a regional basis, requiring collaboration of all providers within the region to develop a single shelter diversion strategy, moving individual programs toward systems-level coordination. Funds are distributed by an allocation to ensure at least minimal access to assistance statewide.

The Liberty Partnerships Program, initiated by the New York State Education Department, aims to foster partnerships among Institutions of Higher Education and communities to support at-risk students. By providing essential services such as tutoring, counseling, and mentoring, the program seeks to enhance student engagement and reduce dropout rates. Through collaborative efforts, this initiative promotes innovative educational strategies that empower students to take active roles in their learning journey.

The Visionaries for Change Grant, established by Black leaders in Hampton Roads, aims to support Black-serving 501(c)(3) nonprofits that enhance opportunities in Black communities. Focused on economic empowerment, the grant encourages initiatives that strengthen local businesses and promote financial literacy. Grants typically average $5,000 and organizations are required to meet specific eligibility criteria, ensuring support is directed to those in need. This initiative fosters community growth and resilience in an underserved region.

The Sonny Greenwood Calzaretta Scholarship, offered by the Pride Foundation, supports LGBTQ+ students from rural communities facing isolation and limited access to resources. Established to honor the legacy of Brian M. Day, this scholarship aims to empower students pursuing post-secondary education while addressing systemic barriers. It prioritizes those demonstrating a commitment to justice and who have experienced challenges such as family rejection or economic hardship. The scholarship is part of a broader initiative to uplift diverse voices within the LGBTQ+ community.

The It's On Us PA Grants program, initiated by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, aims to empower postsecondary institutions to combat sexual violence through education, prevention, and response initiatives. Institutions may apply for funding up to $60,000 based on enrollment size, with a specific focus on fostering awareness and improving reporting systems. This initiative encourages community involvement, aiming to create a safer educational environment for all students in Pennsylvania.

Lord's Foundation Grant aims to promote education and uplift underprivileged communities through various initiatives. It provides scholarships to deserving students, collaborates globally to establish legal centers in India, and partners with educational institutions to enhance learning opportunities. The foundation invites proposals from individuals and entities aligned with its mission, fostering knowledge dissemination and awareness in society. Through its efforts, Lord's Foundation is committed to creating a positive impact on education and community development.

The Holomua Marine Initiative Pāpio Grants, offered by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, aim to support projects that enhance community engagement and stewardship in Hawai’i's nearshore marine areas. With funding requests up to $10,000 USD for durations of 12 to 24 months, this initiative aligns with the Sustainable Hawaiʻi Initiative launched in 2016, focusing on the effective management of Hawaiʻi’s waters to ensure a healthy environment and economy.

About the Foundation

The MxCC Foundation Supports CT State Middlesex and Meriden Campuses

The purpose of the Middlesex Community College Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) public charity incorporated in Connecticut, is twofold:

• To support the college and its students by receiving, managing, and distributing funds for scholarships and other educational purposes, and
• To generate and strengthen communication and collaboration between the college and the Foundation and business, industry, professional, civic, and educational leaders in the communities served by the college—all of Middlesex County, Meriden and Wallingford in New Haven County, and Rocky Hill in Hartford County.

Removing financial obstacles that bar or inhibit student access to education is the Foundation’s driving force. Scholarships address not only the growing need for financial assistance, but also our perennial wish to celebrate student achievement.

The MxCC Foundation’s charge is to develop external resources that contribute support to student and academic programs, as well as efforts that foster student success.

Gandhi Annual Scholarship

This scholarship is funded by CT State Middlesex neighbors and friends at the Connecticut Valley Hindu Temple. It is awarded to an entering or returning full-time student with a diverse background and experiences and who demonstrates academic excellence. 

The Alex O. Santillanes Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of NCW, honors the legacy of Alex O. Santillanes, a dedicated youth advocate in the Yakima Valley. This scholarship supports Hispanic high school seniors from the region pursuing higher education in Washington. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and demonstrate resilience against social and economic inequities, particularly those from single-parent families. The scholarship aims to empower the next generation of leaders.

The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation offers a Mental and Behavioral Health Grant Program aimed at enhancing mental health services across New York State. This initiative supports programs that provide affordable, culturally appropriate care, particularly for marginalized communities. The foundation prioritizes proposals that focus on direct services, education, and capacity building. Grants typically start at $75,000 and require adherence to ethical principles of the Roman Catholic Faith. Eligible organizations must demonstrate financial stability and a commitment to serving underserved populations.

About the Foundation

The MxCC Foundation Supports CT State Middlesex and Meriden Campuses

The purpose of the Middlesex Community College Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) public charity incorporated in Connecticut, is twofold:

• To support the college and its students by receiving, managing, and distributing funds for scholarships and other educational purposes, and
• To generate and strengthen communication and collaboration between the college and the Foundation and business, industry, professional, civic, and educational leaders in the communities served by the college—all of Middlesex County, Meriden and Wallingford in New Haven County, and Rocky Hill in Hartford County.

Removing financial obstacles that bar or inhibit student access to education is the Foundation’s driving force. Scholarships address not only the growing need for financial assistance, but also our perennial wish to celebrate student achievement.

The MxCC Foundation’s charge is to develop external resources that contribute support to student and academic programs, as well as efforts that foster student success.

Gene Haas Foundation Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a new or returning student enrolled in manufacturing technology or engineering and who demonstrates academic stability and strong financial need.

The Whitley Awards, presented annually in London, recognize grassroots conservation leaders in the Global South with £50,000 in project funding. Winning not only provides financial support but also enhances the visibility and career prospects of conservationists. This recognition fosters local pride and encourages philanthropic contributions while enabling winners to influence environmental policy. The awards aim to spotlight impactful projects led by local leaders, promoting sustainable conservation practices and community engagement.