Best Howard County Grants for Nonprofits in Maryland

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

Wells Fargo Community Giving supports nonprofit organizations focusing on financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. The grant cycle runs from February to October, inviting organizations with 501(c)(3) status or equivalent to apply. Funding is prioritized for programs addressing critical community needs, while limited support is available for local initiatives like disaster relief and arts. Organizations must demonstrate fiscal stability and potential impact to be considered for funding.

The Marion I. and Henry J. Knott Foundation offers grants to support various program areas, including Arts & Humanities, Catholic Activities, Education, Health Care, and Human Services. With a commitment to enhancing community well-being, the foundation provides funding opportunities primarily for organizations serving the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Typical grant amounts are under $100,000, with discretionary grants available on a rolling basis. The foundation is dedicated to fostering education and supporting those in need, reflecting the legacy of its founders.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Church, Church, Hittle & Antrim Scholarship, provided by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, aims to support aspiring law students from underrepresented backgrounds. This scholarship offers financial assistance along with a 75-hour paid summer internship, helping students gain practical experience in the legal field. Applicants must demonstrate their commitment to pursuing a legal career through a personal statement, addressing how their unique experiences can enrich the profession. The initiative emphasizes inclusivity and access in law education.

The Helen and Howard Smith Nursing Scholarship, established by The Dayton Foundation in 2002, supports students pursuing LPN or BSN degrees. Eligible applicants must be sophomores or above enrolled in nursing programs within Montgomery or Greene counties and demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to non-traditional students. The Dayton Foundation, a key philanthropic entity since 1921, aims to enhance community welfare through charitable initiatives, focusing on education, health services, and cultural advancement.

The Aaron Worley Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, provides a $1,000 award to a deserving senior student from Howard County High Schools. This scholarship aims to honor Aaron Worley by recognizing students who demonstrate exceptional commitment to community service, academics, and sportsmanship. Eligible applicants must have a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0 and plan to pursue higher education or vocational training.

The Bob Kittleman Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, provides up to $1,000 for Howard County high school seniors excelling in engineering and applied sciences. Applicants must maintain a 3.4 GPA and plan to pursue higher education. This scholarship aims to support talented students and foster their potential in technical fields, ensuring they have the necessary resources to further their education and career aspirations.

The C. Merritt Pumphrey Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, provides $1,000 to deserving students in their senior year at local public schools. Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to pursuing education in fields such as pre-law, agriculture, or animal husbandry, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship, available every other year since 2017, encourages applications from 4-H members but does not require membership.

The Dorothy Iglehart Pumphrey Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, provides $1,000 to a talented senior from Howard County Public Schools or Chapelgate High School. Applicants must pursue a career in fine arts (painting, drawing, sculpture) or have significant involvement in the arts. This scholarship alternates years since its inception in 2016, aiming to support promising students in their educational pursuits.

The Doug Parker Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, provides $2,500 to a deserving senior high school student in Howard County who demonstrates commitment to community service, academics, and sportsmanship. Applicants must maintain an unweighted GPA of 3.0 or higher and plan to attend a college or trade school. This scholarship supports students who exemplify the values of dedication and excellence, helping them achieve their educational goals.

The Freeman K. Hill Teen Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, provides a $1,500 award to a senior student in Howard County. Eligible students must demonstrate their religious faith through good citizenship, community service, and academic excellence, maintaining an unweighted GPA of 3.0 or higher through Grade 12. This scholarship supports students planning to attend college or trade school, fostering their educational and personal growth.

The Jon Grove Memorial Scholarship, valued at $2,500, supports Howard County Public High School seniors whose lives have been affected by cancer. Offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, this scholarship encourages students with a minimum 2.0 GPA to pursue further education at a college, university, or trade school. It aims to recognize and assist those who have demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity, fostering hope and opportunity for impacted families.

The Karen and Howard Carolan Scholarship, provided by the Community Foundation of Howard County, offers a $1,000 award to a deserving high school senior from Howard County. Eligible applicants must have participated in the Howard County Youth Program and plan to attend a college or trade school. This scholarship aims to support students who show exceptional promise and contribute to the community's future.

The Karen S. Wray Nursing with Compassion and Dignity Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, provides $1,000 to a deserving senior student from a Howard County Public School pursuing nursing. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate a commitment to the values of compassion and dignity in healthcare. This scholarship aims to support students who aspire to make a positive impact in the nursing field through education and lifelong learning.

The Mary Ann Levant Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, provides $750 to a senior student from Marriotts Ridge High School. This scholarship honors Mary Ann Levant, a devoted educator who significantly contributed to the Howard County Public School System. Eligible applicants must plan to attend a college or trade school, showcasing their academic promise and commitment to further education.

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 Robert J. Gaw Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, provides a $1,000 award to a deserving senior attending a Howard County public high school. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing their dreams and higher education, whether at a college, university, or trade school. Candidates must maintain a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate commitment to their academic and career aspirations.

The Schnorf Family Special Olympics Volunteer Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, awards up to $1,500 to high school volunteers who have significantly contributed to the Special Olympics. This scholarship aims to recognize and encourage students who have demonstrated exceptional volunteer service and personal growth through their involvement in supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities. It highlights the importance of community service and advocacy for special needs.

The Amanda Post "AmandaWins" Soccer Association Scholarship supports Howard County student-athletes with a $5,000 award. Eligible applicants must be seniors at a public high school or private school in Maryland, have participated in a SAC/HC team, and maintain a 3.5 GPA or higher. This scholarship emphasizes academic achievement and athletic participation, aiming to foster the potential of local youth in higher education.

The Tropf Family Scholarships, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, provide four scholarships worth $1,000 each to senior students at Atholton, Wilde Lake, Long Reach, and Oakland Mills High Schools. These scholarships aim to support students pursuing studies in mathematics, physical sciences, or engineering at a four-year college or university. Eligible students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and plan to study full-time at an accredited institution.

The Wilbon H. and Mary J. Pulliam Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Howard County, awards $1,000 to a deserving senior student from Howard County High Schools. This scholarship aims to honor the memory of Wilbon H. and Mary J. Pulliam, supporting students who plan to attend a college or trade school in Maryland and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. It's an opportunity for local students to further their education and achieve their academic goals.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.