Best Grants for BIPOC in Illinois

The Somerset Scholarship, managed by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, provides essential tuition assistance for Somerset resident students pursuing higher education at two- or four-year institutions. This initiative aims to support students who may not qualify for traditional scholarships, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their academic aspirations. With a strong commitment to community improvement, the foundation has distributed over $50 million to various local organizations since its inception in 1995.

The Samuel and Solomon Rusitzky Entrepreneurial Education Scholarship Fund, established by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, offers annual college scholarships to adult workers in the New Bedford area. These scholarships aim to assist individuals seeking to enhance their professional qualifications through higher education at accredited institutions. Since its inception, the Foundation has mobilized significant philanthropic resources to support community needs and improve the quality of life in the region.

The Lowell Teachers Scholarships, offered by Harvard University, allow middle and high school teachers to enroll in one Extension School course per term at half the tuition cost. This initiative promotes professional development by making Harvard's rigorous academic programs accessible to educators. Limited scholarships are available, encouraging early application. Note that these scholarships cannot be used for summer courses or combined with other financial aid, ensuring focused support for teachers dedicated to enhancing their skills.

The Common Ground Scholarship, awarded by the Foundation for Rural Service, supports high school seniors from rural communities across America with two $9,000 scholarships. Preference is given to students pursuing studies in environmental sustainability, social justice, telecommunications, or economic development. This initiative has provided over $1 million in scholarships, empowering rural students to enhance their communities with vital skills and experiences, thus fostering future leaders in various fields.

The Frank D. Sylvia Trust Scholarship, established by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, honors Frank D. Sylvia's late son. This scholarship provides financial assistance to deserving high school seniors from Dighton or Somerset. Since its inception, the foundation has mobilized philanthropy, distributing over $50 million to meet community needs. The scholarship aims to support students with financial need, fostering educational opportunities and enhancing the quality of life in the region.

The BJA FY 2026 Adult Treatment Court Program aims to enhance Adult Treatment Court operations, focusing on preventing overdoses and reducing substance use among high-risk adults in the criminal justice system. The program integrates judicial supervision, substance use disorder treatment, and recovery support services to improve outcomes for participants. This funding opportunity from the U.S. Department of Justice highlights the commitment to public safety and addressing critical issues like the opioid crisis.

The Professional & Technical Training Scholarships, offered by 10,000 Degrees, aim to support Marin County students facing financial challenges. These scholarships are designed for individuals enrolled in vocational programs that lead to a license or certificate. Eligibility includes being a Marin resident, attending an accredited institution, and having a GED or high school diploma. Preference is given to residents of Southern Marin, ensuring that local students receive the assistance they need to pursue their career goals.

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Washington Goes Purple Scholarship

This scholarship is open to students that reside in Washington County, MD, are continuing their education, and have been affected by substance use.

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Washington County Hospital School of Nursing Alumni Scholarship

Founded by alumni of Washington County Hospital’s School of Nursing, this fund serves to provide scholarships to deserving students who are continuing their education in Nursing.

The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) fosters a dynamic research environment that enriches cadet education, enhances faculty development, and supports Air Force mission capabilities. By engaging cadets in hands-on research alongside faculty, USAFA cultivates critical thinking and innovation. Additionally, the program addresses vital topics like hypersonics and cybersecurity, while fostering partnerships with industry to stimulate broader technological advancements. This initiative not only benefits cadets and faculty but also serves the public interest.

The Rich Huntsman Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Muskingum County Community Foundation, aims to support high school seniors from the Muskingum Valley League or Muskingum County who have actively participated in bowling. Eligible applicants must demonstrate ongoing involvement in the sport during their senior year. This scholarship reflects the foundation's commitment to enhancing community quality of life through education and sports engagement.

The Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF) administers a variety of unique scholarship funds that grant over $5.7 million annually to college students. The scholarship funds have been established by thoughtful and generous donors and each has a unique set of eligibility criteria and award structure.

Pi-Squared Scholarship

Benefiting graduating seniors of Spring ISD (Texas), Klein ISD (Texas), and Houston ISD (Texas).

The Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF) administers a variety of unique scholarship funds that grant over $5.7 million annually to college students. The scholarship funds have been established by thoughtful and generous donors and each has a unique set of eligibility criteria and award structure.

Roger and Barbara Powell Scholarship for Nursing

Benefiting rural Texas residents pursuing nursing degrees.

The Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF) administers a variety of unique scholarship funds that grant over $5.7 million annually to college students. The scholarship funds have been established by thoughtful and generous donors and each has a unique set of eligibility criteria and award structure.

Silver Eagle Distributors Houston Scholarship

Benefiting dependents of Silver Eagle Distributors Houston employees.

The nccPA Health Foundation: Kathy J. Pedersen Grant aims to promote equitable health care by providing up to $5,000 for innovative projects that address health disparities. This grant honors Kathy J. Pedersen's legacy and encourages applicants to develop actionable strategies that foster cultural humility, advocate for underserved populations, and improve public health. Grantees are expected to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and social accountability in their proposed initiatives.

The Public Policy & International Affairs (PPIA) Scholarship at Harvard Kennedy School is designed for alumni of the PPIA Junior Summer Institute. This scholarship aims to support both U.S. and international students by considering merit and financial need. Harvard Kennedy School is committed to fostering leadership and public policy expertise, making a significant impact on global societal issues. Recipients must have participated in the PPIA program to be eligible for this limited funding.

The Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF) administers a variety of unique scholarship funds that grant over $5.7 million annually to college students. The scholarship funds have been established by thoughtful and generous donors and each has a unique set of eligibility criteria and award structure.

Tradition of Excellence Scholarship

Benefiting dependents of current Perry Homes employees.

The Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF) administers a variety of unique scholarship funds that grant over $5.7 million annually to college students. The scholarship funds have been established by thoughtful and generous donors and each has a unique set of eligibility criteria and award structure.

Strong Family Scholarship

Benefiting graduating high school seniors from charter schools in Houston, TX.

The John Berger Fellowship at Harvard Kennedy School supports MPP students who are graduates of Harvard College, aiming to work in U.S. or international institutions focused on international affairs. This fellowship is part of HKS's commitment to improving public policy and leadership, offering scholarships and fellowships based on merit and financial need, without discrimination against applicants based on citizenship, race, or other protected classifications.

The Readiness and Recreation Initiative (RARI) by the National Park Service aims to enhance outdoor recreation and support compatible land uses near military installations. This program, funded through the Land and Water Conservation Fund, provides up to 50% of project costs, encouraging collaboration with the Department of War. Projects must involve land acquisition and align with national priorities to ensure public outdoor access in perpetuity, directly benefiting both military and civilian communities.

The National Centers for Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NCBIB) provide critical resources for biomedical imaging and bioengineering research. This funding opportunity supports the development of innovative technologies tailored to the needs of basic, translational, and clinical researchers. NCBIB facilitates technology access, training, and dissemination, enhancing collaboration and advancing the field. Applications are encouraged to foster advancements that address complex biomedical challenges.

The nccPA Health Foundation: Equitable Care - Be the Change Grant supports PAs and PA students in implementing projects that improve health access and promote equity in their communities. With a focus on addressing health disparities, applicants can receive up to $2,500 to fund innovative initiatives. Applications are accepted year-round, enabling ongoing support for transformative health solutions aimed at fostering equitable care for underserved populations.

The Common Cents Scholarship, offered by the Communities Foundation of Texas, provides up to two $3,000 scholarships to Dallas ISD students involved in the Common Cents philanthropy program. This scholarship can be utilized for tuition, books, and fees at accredited colleges, universities, trade, or vocational schools across the U.S. Eligible applicants must be current Juniors or Seniors at a Dallas ISD High School and must have participated in the program during the application year.

The C.V.M. Scholarship Fund, established by Communities Foundation of Texas, offers up to $10,000 to graduates of Mildred Independent School District pursuing further education. Since 1953, CFT has collaborated with donors and nonprofits to uplift communities. Eligible candidates must have a GPA of 4.0 (out of 7.0) and meet SAT or ACT score requirements. This initiative aims to empower local students in their educational journeys.

PPSEF Student Scholarship (Piedmont)

Provides a scholarship to a Piedmont graduating senior.

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

Carol L. Berthold Scholarship Fund for Dance

For a current year graduating senior who is pursuing a degree in dance at an accredited post-secondary educational institution and demonstrates both financial need and academic excellence. The award is renewable annually, provided the recipient remains enrolled in the dance program and in good academic standing (as defined by the institution).

The Siebenthal and Block Scholarship Program, administered by Scholarship America, supports students from Peoria Manual High School pursuing higher education. This initiative aims to eliminate financial barriers and promote access to college or vocational training. By fostering partnerships and providing vital resources, the program enhances educational opportunities for underrepresented students, ensuring they can achieve their academic goals and minimize debt. Through its commitment, Scholarship America continues to impact lives significantly.