Best Grants for BIPOC in Illinois

The Lloyd A. Fry Foundation provides education grants focusing on improving academic achievement for low-income students in Chicago's public schools. Their funding priorities include principal development, teacher leadership, and academic enrichment programs. They seek organizations with proven effectiveness and innovative approaches that can demonstrate clear outcomes. Grants are limited to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations based in Chicago, with a preference for those aligning with their mission to support underserved communities.

Building a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre

Our Mission and Goals

The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF) is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. ETF’s programs aim to support students, educators and the field at large by realizing three strategic goals:

• Subsidizing new, emerging, and underserved student theatre programs;
• Creating paths for theatre educators to develop new skills; and
• Commissioning research to showcase the value of a theatre education.

Educator & Program Grants

Giving school theatre programs a boost

The Thespian Growth & Excellence Fund is committed to supporting the ongoing development of theatre programs and the pursuit of excellence for educators, students, schools, and communities by offering a number of grants that assist in EdTA membership, teacher support, and programmatic resources for theatre in schools.

By the end of 2024, the Thespian Growth and Excellence Fund has awarded 349 grants to 276 schools, totaling $286,167 in assistance provided to school theatre programs, many at schools with Title 1 designations.

Equipment Upgrade (up to $5,000)

Can be awarded to help school theatre programs with large technical purchases that upgrade the resources available for theatrical use, such as lighting and sound equipment.

Our Story

Established over 50 years ago, our founders redefined local philanthropy, fostering connections around a shared sense of place and purpose. As Virginia's largest community foundation, we bring people together to pool resources, co-create solutions and align actions for impactful change in the Richmond region.

Scholarships are offered to students living in the Richmond region and other Virginia locations. Each scholarship was established by a generous individual, family, or organization with a desire to assist high school students, recent high school graduates, and adult learners to continue their education. 

R.C. and Betsy Williamson Scholarship

The R.C. and Betsy Williamson Scholarship Fund was established in 2009 by Brad Williamson, their son, to honor his father and mother. R.C. Williamson was born in Middlesboro, Kentucky. He married Betsy Berry of Staunton, VA in 1949 and they moved to Richmond in 1950. R.C. spent his working career with the Natural Gas Company of VA, Inc. (MR ABLE PROPANE) until his death in January of 2008. R.C. passionately believed in the value of education and was himself the recipient of post-secondary scholarships.

The purpose of the scholarship fund is to support post-secondary educational scholarships for qualifying graduates of public or private high schools in the Central Virginia area. Scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate Christian values, financial need, commitment to their community and academic achievement.

This scholarship is available for up to a total of four years, provided you:

• Have maintained good academic standing.
• Continue to be enrolled in an accredited two-year or four-year college or university, community college or trade school in the continental United States.

Estmated Award Amount

• $3,500 year 1, renew $1,000

ASPCA PRO

ASPCApro.org provides tools and resources for animal welfare professionals, veterinary personnel and volunteers. We take a progressive approach to helping the country's at-risk animals, promoting cutting edge research to advance the field.

ASPCA Research Grants

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) research grants fund high-quality research with a clear potential to benefit animals, either directly or through effecting systems-level change. Proposals to extend existing studies, focused on other disciplines, will also be considered if they can clearly demonstrate substantial potential benefit to animal welfare.

This year we are soliciting proposals in the following six research areas:

• Access to Veterinary Care (AVC) Research
• Applied Behavior Research
• Cruelty Research
• Farm Animal Welfare Research
• Psychological Trauma Research
• Shelter Research

Proposals focused on evaluating the effectiveness of a program or service must demonstrate methodological rigor and a clear plan to produce generalizable scientific knowledge. Please view eligibility information for specific projects from the research area you are interested in. 

Psychological Trauma Research

Proposals related to developing and validating novel approaches to the objective documentation of animal cruelty and neglect in the absence of physical trauma (i.e., documenting psychological trauma) in dogs. Proposals are encouraged from any relevant discipline (e.g., physiology, psychology, ethology). Of particular interest is research that focuses on objective measures, including biomarkers and quantitative behavioral phenotyping.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Margaret and Dr. Paul Borton Music Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Dr. Paul Borton, who established the Margaret and Dr. Paul Borton Music Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County in memory of his wife, Margaret Borton. Margaret "Maggie" Borton arrived in Muskegon in the late 40s, bringing with her the rich heritage and culture of South Carolina. Not having had the opportunity in her youth to pursue music, she sought ways to include it in her daily life, enjoying the many concerts and festivals available in our area. Maggie always admired the talented youth she met in Muskegon's musical community. Knowing of her dream, her love for people and her passion for music, Maggie's husband, Paul established the Margaret Borton Music Scholarship Fund in her memory to provide scholarship assistance to Muskegon County students who will major in music in college.

The New Haven Scholarship Fund offers financial assistance to New Haven residents graduating from local public high schools with demonstrated need. Scholarships, ranging from $200 to $2900, are awarded for one academic year, covering two semesters. Eligible students must have attended a qualifying high school since senior year and complete a formal application process, including an interview. Reapplication is permitted each year, ensuring continued support for students' educational pursuits.

The Orran "Buzzy" Calhoun Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Stark Community Foundation, supports graduates and current seniors from select high schools in western Stark County. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, pursue a full-time degree at a college or university, and demonstrate significant academic and extracurricular involvement. This fund reflects a commitment to empowering local students through educational opportunities, fostering community growth and development.

The National Book Fund (NBF) offers grants to support adult education and literacy programs across the U.S. by providing New Readers Press materials. Grants typically range from $500 to $2,000, with applications considered for higher amounts if justified. Eligible applicants must have a defined project and use materials directly with learners. Priority is given to nonprofit organizations providing free literacy instruction. Note that individuals and lending libraries are not eligible for funding.

The Partners In Education Scholarship Fund, established by Stark Community Foundation, supports Stark County high school graduates pursuing undergraduate degrees. Eligible applicants must be residents of Stark County, Ohio, have completed at least 24 post-secondary credit hours, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.6. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering community development since its inception in 1963.

Dick & Judy Hoyt Inclusion Grant

The Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism is excited to collaborate with the Hoyt Foundation for the Dick and Judy Hoyt Grant for Inclusion. Our joint effort is driven by a shared vision of fostering a society where individuals with autism and other disabilities are embraced and valued within their communities. In tribute to the pioneering spirit of Dick and Judy Hoyt, we will be distributing $50,000 through this community grant to support people with autism and other disabilities. Successful ways grant funds can be used: 

• Side-by-side participation with non-disabled peers in a swim program, the grant provides a private lifeguard to allow individualized support to ensure an inclusive experience.
• Grant provides the purchase of a racing chair to allow an individual with a disability to run in races with non-disabled peers.
• Competitive horseback riding supported by the grant to purchase specialized equipment to allow a rider to compete against non-disabled peers.
• Grant provides the purchase of an adaptive ski prosthetic to allow an individual to participate side by side with non-disabled peers on their high school ski teams.
• Participation in dance training and competitions to allow a student with a disability to compete in a dance competition with non-disabled peers, grant lessons, and staff to assist in dance training.
• Grant provides a mobile stand to allow a student with a disability to participate side by side with non-disabled peers in the college marching band. 

The Robert Martz DiGiacomo Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Stark Community Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors in Lake Township. This scholarship honors students who excel academically and athletically, demonstrate outstanding moral character, leadership skills, and a strong devotion to their families. Since its inception in 1963, the Foundation has been dedicated to improving lives through philanthropy and fostering long-term community solutions.

Achievement Scholarship for Students with a History of Chronic Illness (FN)

Essay:

• Tell us about your experiences/struggles with your chronic illness and what you have done to overcome it.

Awards:

• One time award of $1,500.

The Helen Duranleau-Brennan Theater Scholarship, offered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, supports students pursuing theater studies. Eligible applicants must be graduates from specific Davenport high schools, maintain a 3.0 GPA, and be enrolled in a four-year program or graduate school for theater. This scholarship provides up to $1,000 annually, renewable for up to four years, encouraging students committed to theater-related disciplines and community service.

The Thurman Munson Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by Stark Community Foundation, supports high school seniors from Stark or Summit County who have participated in varsity baseball or softball. This scholarship seeks to assist students demonstrating both academic potential and financial need, with verification of their sports involvement required. The fund alternates scholarship awards between male and female recipients each year, continuing the legacy of philanthropy since 1963.

The Tim Triner Letter Carriers Scholarship Fund, established by Stark Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors, particularly children and grandchildren of National Association of Letter Carriers members. This scholarship emphasizes scholastic achievement and is aimed at students accepted into full-time post-secondary education. Since 1963, the Foundation has played a pivotal role in addressing community challenges through philanthropy.

The Music Man Foundation invites eligible organizations to apply for Advocacy and Research Grants aimed at supporting systemic change in the arts sector. Organizations must demonstrate their impact on music-related systems, showcase their priorities in the field, and outline their achievements. Grants will assist with research, advocacy training, and cross-sector initiatives to enhance community vitality and promote sustainable solutions, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to fostering positive arts engagement.

Our Story

Since 1963 when Stark Community Foundation was formed, hundreds of thousands of people’s lives have been changed through the power of philanthropy.

Over the years, the role of the Foundation has grown from a simple grantmaker to a community leader seeking long-term solutions to diverse community challenges.

The Virginia C. Jack and Ralph L. Jack Scholarship Fund

The Virginia C. Jack and Ralph L. Jack Scholarship Fund was established to assist students who are residents of Stark County; admitted to technical school, college or university, or school of nursing (full or part-time); traditional or non-traditional students accepted. Applicants must have attained a GPA of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and demonstrate financial need.

Hope Grant Program

Direct support for individuals and families.

The Hope Grant program offers one-time, expedited financial assistance to individuals and families impacted by a heinous or violent crime within the last 12–18 months. Hope Grants are designed to meet urgent and emergency needs, helping victims begin to rebuild their lives after unimaginable loss.

• Grants provide practical, immediate financial relief in the wake of tragedy.
• Available for victims of crimes such as homicide, rape, trafficking, and violent crimes against children.

Dr. Barry T. Katzen Master Clinician Award

Honors an interventional radiologist who exemplifies dedication to clinical practice, patient care, diligence in their work and continuous improvement within the field and who has also made a demonstrable impact at their institution or practice as a result.

About

The Dr. Barry T. Katzen Master Clinician Award seeks to honor an interventional radiologist who exemplifies dedication to clinical practice, patient care, diligence in their work and continuous improvement within the field as well as who has made a demonstrable impact at their institution or practice as a result. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to enhancing patient outcomes and advancing the reputation and practice of interventional radiology through their hard work, commitment and, most importantly, clinical practice. The award is being given in the name of Barry T. Katzen, MD, FSIR, who pioneered clinical practice for IR in 1976 and became a vocal advocate, champion and example for colleagues of the importance of IR being a clinical discipline for advancement of the specialty.

The recipient will receive:

• Complimentary annual meeting registration
• Recognition during the SIR Annual Scientific Meeting

Stark Community FoundationStark 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. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.Aaron Seesan Memorial Scholarship FundThe Aaron Seesan Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to assist graduating seniors from Massillon Washington High School or Stark County high schools who have been accepted by or will attend a two-year or four-year college/university, a post-high school technical education program, or nursing school. Criteria is based on: 3.0 minimum GPA, demonstration of outstanding involvement in extracurricular school activities, and community service activities outside of school. Personal interview required.Renewable Scholarship: No

Mid Shore Community Foundation Mid-Shore Community Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties, who are planning to attend a college, university, or trade school. In general, scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, financial need, and other criteria specified by the donor.The Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors through a pooled scholarship application - students complete one online application in consideration for all scholarships to which they meet eligibility. All applications are reviewed and considered by the Foundation’s Scholarship Committee. American Legion, Blake Blackston Post #77 ScholarshipAwarded to students graduating from high schools in Talbot County

Our Story

Established over 50 years ago, our founders redefined local philanthropy, fostering connections around a shared sense of place and purpose. As Virginia's largest community foundation, we bring people together to pool resources, co-create solutions and align actions for impactful change in the Richmond region.

Scholarships are offered to students living in the Richmond region and other Virginia locations. Each scholarship was established by a generous individual, family, or organization with a desire to assist high school students, recent high school graduates, and adult learners to continue their education. 

Claude V. Simmons Scholarship

The Claude V. Simmons Scholarship Fund was established to support post-secondary educational opportunities for qualifying members of the Church of Francis de Sales in Mathews County, Virginia.

Awards

• $6,600

The Johnson & Johnson Scholarship offers $5,000 merit-based scholarships to New Jersey residents pursuing degrees in nursing or health sciences. Applicants must be juniors or seniors enrolled at accredited UNCF Member Institutions or other four-year institutions, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This initiative supports the mission of UNCF, which has raised over $6 billion to help minority students thrive in higher education, advocating for the importance of education and community engagement.

The Stephen Francis McNally Scholarship Fund offers need-based scholarships up to $4,250 for undergraduate students at UNCF-member institutions or accredited HBCUs. Established in honor of Steve McNally, this fund aims to support students facing financial challenges that hinder their college completion. With over 70% graduation rates for recipients, the scholarship not only alleviates financial burdens but also empowers students to thrive and succeed in their academic pursuits.

The Rev. Dr. Neil T. Eckstein Scholarship, established by family and friends, honors Neil's legacy of service and support for Christian higher education. It is available to full-time students at accredited colleges or ELCA seminaries. While the number and amount of scholarships may vary, maintaining eligibility is crucial, as failure to register full-time can result in loss of support. This scholarship reflects Neil's commitment to education and faith within the Grace Lutheran Church community.

About Us

The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is a resource for local charitable giving. Created by and for the people of San Luis Obispo County, The Community Foundation is an enduring source of charitable funds to meet the changing needs and interests of the region. We envision San Luis Obispo County as an inclusive haven where everyone, regardless of background, feels free to fully participate. In collaboration with our community partners and donors, we seek to foster a safe, respectful environment with ample opportunity for all to reach their potential and contribute to the success of our community. We invite you to join us in celebrating diversity, making sure all of our neighbors feel seen, and free from dehumanizing rhetoric and violence, as we shape a future where all residents can flourish. 

2025-2026 Scholarship Applications

Big dreams start here! With support from generous individuals, families, and businesses, the Community Foundation offers scholarships that help San Luis Obispo County students reach new heights in their education and careers.

Gary Grossman Scholarship

The Gary Grossman Scholarship was established to provide scholarship support for promising LGBTQIA+ students to achieve their full academic and leadership potential.