Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Illinois

David M. Cordani Courage in Service Grant Program

The Cigna Group Foundation, the philanthropic arm of The Cigna Group (NYSE: CI), today announced the launch of the David M. Cordani Courage in Service Grant, a new $1.5 million, 10-year commitment to support the health and well-being of military and veteran communities by prioritizing social connection.

Each year, $150,000 will be awarded to one nonprofit serving military and veteran communities to support programs that strengthen connections, improve well-being, and increase stability for individuals and families navigating key life transitions.

How the Grant Supports Military Communities

The Courage in Service Grant will support nonprofit organizations that deliver:

• Programs that reduce isolation and strengthen resilience among military families through peer support
• Community-centered health and wellness hubs offering physical activity, wellness programming, and mental health support
• Transition-focused services that help individuals and families navigate key military life moments such as deployment, relocation, recovery, and reintegration

The ASPCA's Rescue Effect Campaign Grants provide $1.8 million to support animal welfare organizations in the U.S. during a crucial adoption initiative. Eligible non-profits can receive funding based on their intake of adoptable pets and commitment to hold fee-waived adoption days. The program aims to promote responsible pet adoption and community involvement, making a significant impact on animal welfare during the months of August to October.

The American Institute of Physics offers Grants-in-Aid to support research in the history of the physical sciences. Aimed primarily at graduate students, the program also welcomes applications from undergraduates, postdoctoral researchers, and established scholars. Grants up to $2,500 are provided on a reimbursement basis for expenses such as travel and research assistance. Applications for research conducted globally are encouraged, including visits to the Niels Bohr Library & Archives.

The Isabel Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations that promote the Christian Science faith. Founded by Isabel and C.S. Harding Mott, the foundation primarily funds initiatives such as camps, churches, and nursing facilities that align with these values. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations. Although the foundation appreciates the work of branch churches, they are currently unable to fund their projects. This grant represents a commitment to nurturing the Christian Science community.

The Waneta Drake Miller Edmison Non-Traditional Student Scholarship is designed to support individuals aged 24 and older from Minnehaha, Lincoln, Turner, or McCook counties in South Dakota who are pursuing further education. Applicants must be enrolled in at least twelve credit hours at an accredited institution and have completed at least six credit hours in a degree program. This scholarship exemplifies the commitment to lifelong learning and community enrichment.

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois will make a sustainable philanthropic impact in our community through visible leadership in connecting people who care with causes that matter.

Gerald C. Bulkeley Scholarship Fund 

The Gerald C. Bulkeley Scholarship Fund was established by his family to honor his legacy of service to the Abingdon community. A graduate of Abingdon High School, Mr. Bulkeley was dedicated to supporting young people through civic and educational leadership.

This scholarship is available for students attending school in District 276 and residing within the boundaries of former District 217. The student will receive the scholarship award each year for four years.

The Hovland Scholarship, offered by the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation, supports college students of Norwegian descent. Eligible applicants must be full-time students entering their third year at an accredited four-year institution in the U.S., maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and demonstrate financial need. Multiple renewable scholarships are available, contingent upon meeting requirements and funding availability. This scholarship aims to enrich the quality of life through education and philanthropy.

The Golden Trowel Award, presented by the Archaeological Institute of America, recognizes the local society with the highest proportional membership increase over the past year. This prestigious award highlights the vital role that local societies play in promoting archaeology and supporting the AIA's mission. By fostering community engagement and growth, the award encourages societies to enhance their programs and initiatives, ultimately enriching the field of archaeology.

The Simons Postdoctoral Fellowships in Plant Biology, offered by the Simons Foundation, aim to support early-career researchers pursuing fundamental studies in plant biology. Candidates with diverse backgrounds, including engineering and computational modeling, are encouraged to apply. This flexible program enables collaborations between disciplines, fostering innovative approaches to plant science. Eligible applicants should have obtained their Ph.D. within the last three years and may include both U.S. citizens and foreign researchers. Awards will be granted to nonprofit research institutions.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Richard R. Montgomery Scholarship Fund

The Richard R. Montgomery Memorial Scholarship Fund was established by his family and friends to honor him after he passed away on June 22, 2004. Dick came to Battle Creek to work at the Enquirer and News after graduating in Journalism from Michigan State University. He later worked at Clark Equipment as the national sales promotion manager. Dick was a talented, enthusiastic person whose positive attitude enriched all who had the good fortune of knowing him. He worked to enhance the quality of life in the Battle Creek community through his many years of community involvement. He focused on problems that required action. He applied his positive spirit and his eloquent voice to many issues. Dick felt that he could make a difference in the lives of young people by his personal involvement on the General Scholarship Committee of the Battle Creek Community Foundation Scholarship Program. This scholarship has been established to help individuals who are starting out on their educational journey following high school graduation. It is our hope that recipients of this scholarship will display the same character and compassion to better their community as Dick Montgomery did.

The Bentley and Roberta Pollard Family Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of West Texas, honors the legacy of Bentley and Roberta Pollard. This scholarship supports Gold Star families and families of U.S. military veterans seeking higher education. It aims to empower students from Lubbock County high schools, emphasizing financial need and the importance of education in building a brighter future for the community. Over 100 scholarships are awarded annually to deserving individuals.

Community Foundation of Noble County

At the Community Foundation of Noble County we are passionate about making Noble County an even better place to call home. Since 1991, area residents have been turning to the Community Foundation of Noble County to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible, as we see it as our mission to serve as a catalyst for positive change. The Community Foundation of Noble County is a public charity 501 (c) 3 entity.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Noble County offers a wide range of scholarships to support local students in achieving their academic and career aspirations. 

Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council Scholarship Fund

Awards a one time payment of $500 to a high school senior who will be accepted into a 2-year or 4-year accredited public or private institution of higher learning and is a Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council member, currently involved and having been involved for a minimum of two years, consecutively. 

The U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation honors exceptional graduates with the Distinguished Graduate Award, recognizing their significant contributions to the nation and communities over the past 40 years. This prestigious award celebrates those who exemplify the core values of integrity, service, and excellence, serving as an inspiration for current cadets and graduates. Nomination is exclusive to U.S. Air Force Academy alumni, reinforcing the legacy of the Long Blue Line.

The U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation's Leadership Achievement Award recognizes alumni who have exemplified exceptional leadership, integrity, and character in their professional endeavors. This prestigious honor is awarded to graduates who have achieved notable accomplishments 16 to 39 years post-graduation, thereby enriching the legacy of the Long Blue Line. Nominations must be submitted by fellow graduates and reapplication is necessary for previous nominees.

The Marine Trades Scholarship, offered by the National Marine Representatives Association (NMRA), supports students pursuing education in marine trades. Since 2008, NMRA has facilitated annual scholarships funded by members and affiliates. This initiative not only encourages academic growth but also fosters professional development through networking events, industry insights, and advocacy support. Applications are accepted each spring, with recipients chosen in the summer, promoting a brighter future for the marine industry.

Community Foundation of Noble County

At the Community Foundation of Noble County we are passionate about making Noble County an even better place to call home. Since 1991, area residents have been turning to the Community Foundation of Noble County to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible, as we see it as our mission to serve as a catalyst for positive change. The Community Foundation of Noble County is a public charity 501 (c) 3 entity.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Noble County offers a wide range of scholarships to support local students in achieving their academic and career aspirations. 

Ellenbecker, Oliver and Eleanor Education Scholarship Fund

Awards $3,500 one time to high school seniors who attend a Noble County high school and will begin a four-year bachelor’s program at an accredited college or university in the Fall, majoring in education to become a teacher. Applicants must have lived in Noble County at least one year.

The NAMA Memorial Fellowship, awarded by the Mycological Society of America, recognizes promising graduate students in mycology. Two fellowships are granted annually based on academic merit and research potential. Recipients must be student members of MSA and can use the funds to enhance their studies. Additionally, they are encouraged to contribute to McIlvainea and attend the annual meeting, fostering connections within the mycological community. This initiative supports diversity and inclusion in the field.

The MSA Graduate Fellowship, awarded by the Mycological Society of America, recognizes outstanding graduate students in mycology. Annually, two fellowships are granted based on academic merit and research potential. These funds serve as supplementary support for graduate studies, and recipients are encouraged to attend the annual meeting to engage with the mycological community. The fellowship aims to promote diversity and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds, ensuring equal opportunity for emerging mycologists.

Associated General Contractors Of California

Since 1920, we have worked together with our members to provide advocacy, education, career development, and networking opportunities to experienced and next generation construction and contracting professionals. From the moment you become an AGC member, we go to bat for you with state and local governments, while helping you connect with industry leaders through services, innovative programs, and events.

Scholarships & Giving

We award scholarships to individuals enrolled in certified training, pre-apprenticeship, or craft apprenticeship programs, and those attending two- or four-year college degree programs.

CLIC Scholarship

The California Landscape Irrigation Council (CLIC) Inc. Scholarship awards $1,000 to a student who portrays academic excellence working towards a degree in landscape construction, contracting, engineering, construction management, business administration, and/or related fields. The scholarship is also open to members of union trades specific to landscape careers. 

Associated General Contractors Of California

Since 1920, we have worked together with our members to provide advocacy, education, career development, and networking opportunities to experienced and next generation construction and contracting professionals. From the moment you become an AGC member, we go to bat for you with state and local governments, while helping you connect with industry leaders through services, innovative programs, and events.

Scholarships & Giving

We award scholarships to individuals enrolled in certified training, pre-apprenticeship, or craft apprenticeship programs, and those attending two- or four-year college degree programs.

AGC College Scholarship

This scholarship awards individual scholarships ranging from $500 to $2,500. It is a great opportunity for college students pursuing construction or construction-related careers who are enrolled in a two—or four-year degree program. 

The DAV Charitable Service Trust provides essential support to empower veterans in leading dignified lives. This private funder focuses on rehabilitation programs, mobility enhancements for veterans with disabilities, and assistance for aging and homeless veterans. Additionally, it addresses the needs of veterans affected by recent conflicts and supports their caregivers and families. Grants are available to eligible organizations recognized by the IRS as tax-exempt, ensuring that the trust's mission effectively reaches those who have served.

United Negro College Fund

“A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”®

For more than seven decades, this principle has remained at the heart of UNCF, enabling us to raise more than $5 billion and help more than 500,000 students and counting not just attend college, but thrive, graduate and become leaders.

We do this in three ways: By awarding more than 12,000 students scholarships, worth more than $65 million, each year. By providing financial support to 37 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). And by serving as the nation’s leading advocate for the importance of minority education and community engagement.

Associates Scholars Empowerment Program

The Associates Scholars Empowerment Program is a renewable need-based scholarship open to students receiving certificates and two-year degrees. 

United Negro College Fund

“A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”®

For more than seven decades, this principle has remained at the heart of UNCF, enabling us to raise more than $5 billion and help more than 500,000 students and counting not just attend college, but thrive, graduate and become leaders.

We do this in three ways: By awarding more than 12,000 students scholarships, worth more than $65 million, each year. By providing financial support to 37 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). And by serving as the nation’s leading advocate for the importance of minority education and community engagement.

HBCU Scholars Empowerment Program

The HBCU Scholars Empowerment Program is a renewable need-based scholarship open to students receiving four-year degrees at Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs) and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

United Negro College Fund

“A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”®

For more than seven decades, this principle has remained at the heart of UNCF, enabling us to raise more than $5 billion and help more than 500,000 students and counting not just attend college, but thrive, graduate and become leaders.

We do this in three ways: By awarding more than 12,000 students scholarships, worth more than $65 million, each year. By providing financial support to 37 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). And by serving as the nation’s leading advocate for the importance of minority education and community engagement.

Michael L. Lomax Endowed Scholarship

The Michael L. Lomax Endowed Scholarship program was established by Tench and Simone Coxe in honor of Dr. Michael L. Lomax, President, and CEO of UNCF, in partnership with UNCF. The scholarship program is designed to provide scholarship support to deserving students attending one of the 37 UNCF member institutions.

Michael L. Lomax Endowed Scholarship program is annually renewable based on availability of funds and provided students continue to meet the eligibility requirement.

United Negro College Fund

“A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”®

For more than seven decades, this principle has remained at the heart of UNCF, enabling us to raise more than $5 billion and help more than 500,000 students and counting not just attend college, but thrive, graduate and become leaders.

We do this in three ways: By awarding more than 12,000 students scholarships, worth more than $65 million, each year. By providing financial support to 37 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). And by serving as the nation’s leading advocate for the importance of minority education and community engagement.

Dr. Mable V. Jones Scholarship

The Dr. Mable V. Jones. Scholarship is a need-based OR merit-based scholarship for incoming freshmen who are enrolling at any accredited UNCF Member Institution or other accredited four-year HBCU.

United Negro College Fund

“A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”®

For more than seven decades, this principle has remained at the heart of UNCF, enabling us to raise more than $5 billion and help more than 500,000 students and counting not just attend college, but thrive, graduate and become leaders.

We do this in three ways: By awarding more than 12,000 students scholarships, worth more than $65 million, each year. By providing financial support to 37 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). And by serving as the nation’s leading advocate for the importance of minority education and community engagement.

NEESA Last Dollar Grant

NEESA Last Dollar Grants are designed to provide need-based, last-dollar gap scholarships for graduating high school seniors facing barriers to college enrollment. Students may receive up to $1,000.00 for their freshman year attendance.

The Backus Award, presented by the Mycological Society of America, honors two promising graduate students in mycology each year. Candidates are assessed based on their academic achievements, research potential, and future contributions to the field. This fellowship supports their graduate studies and encourages attendance at the MSA annual meeting, fostering connections within the mycological community. Eligible applicants must be student members of MSA and currently enrolled in a university in Canada or the United States.