Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Hawaii

The Florence Merriam Bailey Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, honors outstanding articles published by early career members in AOS journals within the last two years. Awarded annually, it includes a $1,500 cash prize to the lead author. Papers recognized alternate between the journals 'Ornithology' and 'Ornithological Applications'. Nominees must adhere to high ethical standards as outlined in the AOS Code of Conduct.

The Tribal Transportation Safety Strategy Pilot Program, funded by the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology, aims to address high traffic fatality rates among American Indian and Alaska Native populations. With a $2 million budget over three years, the program will create a university-led consortium to develop a strategic safety plan using artificial intelligence for risk analysis, culminating in a pilot project that showcases effective safety infrastructure in a Tribal community.

The Curriculum and Instruction Honor Award, presented by SHAPE America, recognizes outstanding contributions to health and physical education curriculum research. This prestigious award highlights the importance of effective instructional practices that prepare students for active and healthy lives. Award recipients are selected based on their scholarship in health education and physical education, demonstrating commitment to excellence since the organization's founding in 1885. SHAPE America advocates for quality education and promotes the well-being of preK-12 students across the United States.

The Atlantic Salmon Federation Olin Fellowships support individuals aiming to enhance their knowledge and skills in salmon conservation and management. These fellowships are available annually for various pursuits, including research and graduate studies, without the requirement of being enrolled in a degree program. Eligible applicants must be legal residents of the U.S. or Canada, and the fellowships can be conducted at accredited institutions or active management programs.

The Estelle Massey Osborne Scholarship supports exceptional African American nurses pursuing master's degrees. Applicants must have at least two semesters remaining in their program, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.6, and hold a current RN license. This scholarship, provided by Nurses Educational Funds Inc., honors Estelle Massey Osborne, the first African American nurse to earn a master's degree in the U.S. It aims to promote nursing leadership through financial assistance for advanced education.

The NIAMS Clinical Trial Implementation Cooperative Agreement (UG3/UH3) invites applications for the execution of investigator-initiated, interventional clinical trials across various phases. This program supports researchers in finalizing preparations necessary for trial initiation, including IRB establishment and staffing. Successful UG3 projects may transition to the UH3 phase, emphasizing the need for hypothesis-driven studies with significant clinical impact within NIAMS's research mission.

The ABPN Faculty Innovation in Education Award aims to support innovative educational projects that enhance residency training and lifelong learning for psychiatrists and neurologists. With a funding potential of $120,000 over two years, the award prioritizes projects focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, clinical skills evaluations, and professional competence. Applicants must hold a faculty position at an accredited U.S. medical school or submit a validated offer letter. Preference is given to first-time applicants and those at junior or mid-faculty levels.

The SAF National Awards Program honors exceptional contributions to forestry through various awards, including the Technology Transfer Award. This award recognizes significant achievements in technology transfer, ensuring vital technical information reaches those involved in forestry management. It includes a $1,000 honorarium and other benefits presented at the SAF national convention. Nominees must be active members of the Society of American Foresters and demonstrate leadership and impact in their field.

The Mishler Brown Fund Grant, managed by the Community Foundation of Elkhart County, supports nonprofits dedicated to agriculture and historic preservation. Applications are accepted annually from October 1 to December 31, with funds awarded in January. Organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status but do not need to be located in Elkhart County. The fund honors Helen Mishler's legacy by preserving farming heritage, including her family's historic homestead.

The ASTRO-LUNGevity Residents/Fellows in Radiation Oncology Seed Grant aims to enhance the research careers of residents and fellows focused on radiation oncology, specifically benefiting lung cancer patients. This initiative supports basic, translational, and clinical research endeavors. With a maximum award amount of $50,000 for one year, it provides essential funding to foster innovative projects that can lead to significant advancements in lung cancer treatment.

Raptor Research Foundation

RRF Mission Statement: The Raptor Research Foundation advances the science, conservation, and understanding of birds of prey.

The Raptor Research Foundation (RRF) is the world’s largest professional society for raptor researchers and conservationists. Founded in 1966 as a non-profit organization, our primary goal is the accumulation and dissemination of scientific information about raptors. The Foundation organizes annual scientific conferences and provides competitive grants and awards for researchers and conservationists. The Foundation also provides support and networking opportunities for students and early career raptor researchers.

Fran and Frederick Hamerstrom Achievement Award

The Fran and Frederick Hamerstrom Award is a non-monetary award that recognizes an individual who has contributed significantly to the understanding of raptor ecology and natural history. The award has no restrictions, but membership in the RRF is encouraged. Nomination packets can be submitted in the spring. Recipients will be announced at the annual meeting. Recipients are invited to give a plenary lecture at the subsequent RRF annual meeting. 

About The Hamerstroms: The award was established in 1990 to recognize and honor the Hamerstrom’s contributions to our understanding of raptor natural history and ecology through their long-term ecological studies. Between them, during their lifetime of research they authored and co-authored over 240 scientific papers, books, and reviews. Fran and Hammie moved from Boston to the midwest, where Fran was Aldo Leopold’s only female graduate student. They settled down in Plainfield Wisconsin where a small army of young researchers got their start in the field helping out on studies of harriers and prairie chickens. 

Raptor Research Foundation

RRF Mission Statement: The Raptor Research Foundation advances the science, conservation, and understanding of birds of prey.

The Raptor Research Foundation (RRF) is the world’s largest professional society for raptor researchers and conservationists. Founded in 1966 as a non-profit organization, our primary goal is the accumulation and dissemination of scientific information about raptors. The Foundation organizes annual scientific conferences and provides competitive grants and awards for researchers and conservationists. The Foundation also provides support and networking opportunities for students and early career raptor researchers.

Partners for Raptors Lifetime Achievement Award

The Partners for Raptors Lifetime Achievement Award honors outstanding individuals who have dedicated their lives to raptor research and conservation. These notable awardees are recognized for their significant contributions to the study and conservation of birds of prey, as well as their outstanding achievements gained through innovative field work, impactful collaborative partnerships, and a lifetime of inclusive interactions with their peers and the public focused on raptors. This is a joint award originally given by the Raptor Research Foundation in partnership with The Peregrine Fund. Going forward, we welcome partnerships with other raptor-oriented organizations, depending on the nominee’s involvement with both the proposing organization and RRF. The award is intended to complement RRF’s Hamerstrom (primarily academic focused) and Cade (primarily conservation focused) awards. 

This is a non-monetary award, designated with a plaque and a RRF resolution honoring the awardee.

The nomination committee consists of representatives of both RRF and the partner organization. Once a nominee is identified, the boards of both the RRF and the partner organization will ratify the nomination.

Raptor Research Foundation

RRF Mission Statement: The Raptor Research Foundation advances the science, conservation, and understanding of birds of prey.

The Raptor Research Foundation (RRF) is the world’s largest professional society for raptor researchers and conservationists. Founded in 1966 as a non-profit organization, our primary goal is the accumulation and dissemination of scientific information about raptors. The Foundation organizes annual scientific conferences and provides competitive grants and awards for researchers and conservationists. The Foundation also provides support and networking opportunities for students and early career raptor researchers.

William Andersen Student Presentation Awards

The Awards: The William C. Andersen Memorial Awards are given to both the best student oral and poster presentation at the annual RRF meeting. This award can only be given to a student once per degree (bachelor, master, or doctorate). To be eligible, a student must be senior author and presenter of the paper or poster.

Students wishing to apply for this award should indicate their interest by checking the box on the abstract submission form. 

Amount

The poster award recipient receives $325, 1-year free membership to RRF, and waived page charges to publish their research in the Journal of Raptor Research. The recipient must be the primary author and the paper must reflect what the award was for.

The paper award recipient receives $525, 1-year free membership to RRF, and waived page charges to publish their research in the Journal of Raptor Research. The recipient must be the primary author and the paper must reflect what the award was for.

About William Andersen

The William C. Andersen Award was established in 1982 in memory of Bill Andersen, who drowned in 1980 while canoeing the Churchill River in Manitoba during a Peregrine Falcon survey. Dr. Andersen was a chemistry professor, but his first love was raptors. He established the Ornithology Research Center at Otero Jr. College in La Junta Colorado, as a medium for raising funds for the field research he conducted with his students. His interest in raptors of southeastern Colorado grasslands naturally evolved into developing a solution to the universal problem of raptor persecution. He established a rehabilitation facility and tirelessly lectured to service clubs and school groups about the benefits of raptors. He was a strong supporter of the RRF and a number of students accompanied him to each of the annual meetings. His enthusiasm, sincerity, and humor sparked an interest in raptors among many of his students and associates. While participating in the 1980 North American Peregrine Falcon Survey, Bill and a partner were canoeing on the Churchill River in northern Manitoba. They unexpectedly encountered extremely turbulent water and capsized. Bill disappeared and presumably drowned. In that instant, raptors and those inspired by them lost one of their strongest allies.

The SAF National Awards Program recognizes outstanding contributions to forestry through various awards, including the Employer Leadership Award. This award honors employers who significantly support SAF members' professional engagement. Recipients receive a $500 honorarium, complimentary convention registration, and travel expense support. The program aims to celebrate the achievements of individuals and organizations in promoting sustainable forestry practices and enhancing professional development, ultimately driving excellence in natural resource management.

The SAF National Awards Program celebrates outstanding contributions to forestry through various awards, including the Outstanding Local Unit Achievement Award. This award recognizes local units for their sustained leadership or special projects that benefit the Society of American Foresters and the forestry profession. Each awarded unit receives a $500 honorarium, complimentary convention registration, and funding for travel expenses, ensuring recognition and support for their impactful efforts in forestry.

The Young Forester Leadership Award, presented by the Society of American Foresters (SAF), recognizes exceptional leadership from young forestry professionals under 40 years old. This award highlights contributions to forestry through innovative projects and sustained leadership roles. Recipients receive a $500 honorarium, complimentary registration for the SAF national convention, and support for travel expenses up to $500. This prestigious accolade aims to encourage the next generation of forestry leaders to excel in their professional endeavors.

The OVW Fiscal Year 2026 Tribal Sexual Assault Services Program provides crucial support to Indian Tribes and organizations in addressing sexual assault through intervention and advocacy. This program aims to assist victims of all ages, including youth and children, as well as their families and those affected by the trauma, except for perpetrators. Applications must be submitted by September 3, 2026, at 4:59 PM ET in JustGrants.

The Alice M. Ditson Fund offers organizational support for summer festivals and conferences focused on contemporary American classical music. This funding opportunity encourages the appreciation of works by younger, relatively unknown American composers. Eligible applicants include performing organizations and institutions that promote artistic excellence. The Fund emphasizes supporting living composers at various career stages, ensuring a broader recognition of their contributions to classical concert music. It is crucial for applicants to align their projects with the Fund's mission of enhancing public knowledge and appreciation.

The SAF National Awards Program includes the John A. Beale Memorial Award, recognizing exceptional voluntary service in forestry by SAF members. Established to honor John Beale's legacy, this award is presented at the SAF national convention and includes a $500 honorarium, complimentary registration, and up to $500 for travel expenses. Nominees must demonstrate sustained commitment to the SAF and its mission, showcasing leadership and promotion of forestry principles.

The SAF National Awards Program recognizes exceptional contributions to forestry through its Honorary Membership award. This accolade is presented to individuals whose impact on the field is acknowledged by their peers, highlighting their distinguished service in advancing forestry knowledge and societal awareness. Awardees receive lifetime membership in SAF along with complimentary convention registration. The program seeks to honor those, including non-professional foresters, who have made significant strides in forestry, both domestically and internationally.

The Gifford Pinchot Medal, awarded by the Society of American Foresters, honors exceptional contributions by forestry professionals in North America. Recognizing achievements in administration and practice, this medal is presented every odd-numbered year at the SAF national convention. Recipients receive a $500 honorarium, complimentary registration, and up to $500 for travel expenses. This prestigious award highlights the importance of leadership and innovation in the forestry profession.

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is funding research to enhance drug susceptibility testing (DST) for mycobacteria. This initiative aims to improve testing for tuberculosis (TB) and non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infections, which are on the rise. Current methods are slow and ineffective against drug-resistant strains, making rapid DSTs essential for effective treatment and reducing transmission rates. Innovative approaches, including rapid genotypic and phenotypic methods, will be supported to address these challenges.

The Thoroughbred Education and Research Foundation (TERF) offers grants to support thoroughbred health, welfare, and education. Focused on enhancing equine research and safety in racing, TERF prioritizes funding for scholarships, educational programs, and veterinary medicine. Eligible applicants must be recognized 501(c)(3) organizations, with a commitment to transparency in reporting. This initiative aims to significantly impact the thoroughbred industry by fostering improved care and understanding of these horses, contributing to their overall welfare.

The Thoroughbred Education and Research Foundation (TERF) offers grants to support education and research related to Thoroughbred horses. The foundation prioritizes funding for scholarships, educational programs, and equine research aimed at promoting thoroughbred health and welfare. Eligible applicants include qualified 501(c)(3) organizations, while those previously funded must submit reports before applying again. Notably, TERF does not provide funds for facilities caring for unwanted horses or cover overhead costs for grants.

The Jane Bruckel Early Career Investigator Award in Axial Spondyloarthritis, offered by the Spondylitis Association of America, aims to support MDs and PhDs at the Instructor or Assistant Professor level in the US and Canada. This annual $30,000 research grant promotes innovative research in ankylosing spondylitis and enhances patient care by encouraging emerging researchers to contribute to this important field.

The Miller Indigenous Economic Development Fellowship, established by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, provides financial assistance to American Indian and Alaska Native doctoral candidates engaged in economic research impacting Native communities. This fellowship supports costs associated with data collection, analysis, and travel. It aims to enhance the representation of Native scholars in economics, addressing the current underrepresentation in the field. Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply to further their research and contribute to their communities.

The Charles Hamlin Scholarship, established by Nurses Educational Funds, Inc., supports professional nurses pursuing master's or doctoral degrees in nursing. Applicants must hold a current RN license and demonstrate a commitment to nursing leadership, particularly in orthopedic care and the well-being of Native American communities. The scholarship honors Dr. Charles Hamlin's legacy, emphasizing the importance of cultural sensitivity in healthcare and preventing burnout among healthcare professionals. This award aims to empower future nursing leaders and enhance diversity in the field.