Best Grants for International Development in Illinois

The Tree City USA Growth Award, presented by the National Arbor Day Foundation, recognizes communities that demonstrate exceptional tree care and engagement. Eligible communities, including towns and cities, must document at least 10 points from various sustainable forestry activities to qualify. This award not only celebrates current efforts but also encourages ongoing commitment to enhancing urban green spaces, ensuring healthier and vibrant environments for future generations.

The NIOSH Centers for Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Safety and Health provide critical support to enhance worker safety and health in the vital AgFF sector. With a focus on high-quality interdisciplinary research, these centers aim to translate scientific findings into practical solutions, improve health outcomes, and engage with partners to promote best practices. By addressing health hazards and improving data coordination, these centers strive for a meaningful impact on the well-being of AgFF workers across the nation.

Bojangles Promise of Tomorrow Scholarship

The Bojangles Promise of Tomorrow Scholarship was established at the Community Foundation in 2024 by Arnold Dale Haywood in the spirit of helping students take a step towards building a brighter future. Mr. Haywood’s parents, John and Diane, were humble, hardworking, and ethical people. They understood that the foundation of parenting is to give their children love and support, as well as encouragement to always believe in the promise of tomorrow. They gave him the chance to chase his dreams.

Mr. Haywood has established the Bojangles Promise of Tomorrow Scholarship to honor his parents and to give local youth the same encouragement and opportunities that were afforded to him.

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Scholarship Fund of The Stephen H. Barmakian Family Foundation

Stephen H. Barmakian was born in Cambridge, MA on July 5, 1926, a son of the late Haroutune Kevork and Armenoohi Barmakian. He grew up with his brother Haig in a tight-knit and loving family, and the two brothers, although four years apart, were as close as twins. Stephen was a standout athlete and talented enough on the baseball field to have been signed to a major league contract by the Boston Red Sox. His plans to work the diamond were interrupted by World War II and a few months after graduating from Watertown High in 1944, he joined the U.S. Army. Stephen’s older brother and best friend, who he affectionately called ‘Haigy,’ had been fighting with General George S. Patton’s Third Army since the liberation of Europe had begun earlier that year. On the first of February, 1945, Haigy was killed in action fighting with his unit in Germany and the world changed forever for Stephen and his family. It took weeks for the news to come home to Watertown, and even longer to reach Stephen. Following his discharge from the Army at the war’s end, Stephen enrolled at Northeastern University and later transferred to Boston University, all while resurrecting his baseball career. He played for a time with the Saint Louis Browns organization. Until his retirement, Stephen worked for the federal government as a public relations specialist. He was a member of Pequossette Lodge A.F. & A.M., and had been a life member of The Grand Lodge of Masons of Massachusetts. He remained active and independent all his life and was known to walk for miles well into his eighties. He is remembered by many dear friends, including Joseph Balian and Madeline Ives.

The Rotary Club Scholarship, administered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers two $750 scholarships annually to assist deserving students in pursuing higher education. Established in 1987, this nonprofit organization has provided over $55,000 in scholarships each year to Beatrice High School seniors. Priority is given to students exemplifying Rotary's ideals, while children of Rotary members are ineligible. This scholarship supports undergraduate studies, ensuring financial assistance is accessible when needed.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Donald Giles Vocational Scholarship Fund

A scholarship fund created by Donald Giles to provide a scholarship to an eligible student residing in Petersburg, Seward or Homer Communities pursuing training, certification or a degree in vocational or trade studies.

Don Giles, the Former CEO of Icicle Seafoods got his start working the summers in Seward in the 1970’s and spent lots of time in Seward, Homer and Petersburg over the years. All three communities were very supportive and instrumental to the success of Icicle over the years. In speaking with Mr. Giles he stated, "I’m glad to be able to give something back to these wonderful communities There is a need and shortage of skilled vocational trade people in Alaska and hopefully this Scholarship will help jump start some young Alaskans into successful jobs and careers that are desperately needed in Alaska."

Community Foundation of Randolph County

Our mission is to bring people and resources together to strengthen the quality of life, both now and in the future, for the residents of Randolph County.

The Community Foundation’s work falls into three major categories: grant-making, donor service, and community convening. Our most visible activities are the grants and scholarships we award each year. Most of these awards come from income earned from permanently endowed funds. Scholarships and other grants come from funds that donors have established for specific purposes.

Ethan Cheesman Memorial Scholarship

Ethan Taylor Cheesman, a promising young athlete and student at Union Jr./Sr. High School, went to heaven on May 6, 2009 at the age of 15. Born in Muncie to Gregory D. and Paula K. (Clevenger) Cheesman, Ethan was a well-rounded individual with a passion for sports, music, and animals. He was an active member of the United Methodist Church in Losantville and excelled in various extracurricular activities, including track and field, basketball, cross-country, student council, and baseball. He was also a member of the band, playing both trumpet and French horn. Ethan’s kind and gentle nature, coupled with his great sense of humor, made him beloved by his friends and family. This scholarship honors his memory and supports students who embody his spirit and dedication.

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Medical Mutual Scholarship Fund for Customer Schools

Education encourages ingenuity, fosters creativity, and inspires us to reach for new horizons. Medical Mutual is honored to play a role in helping prepare the young people of Ohio for a bright future. Medical Mutual is the oldest and largest health insurer based in Ohio. For 80 years, we have been serving our members and the Ohio communities where they live and work. We strive to be the health insurance choice of Ohioans and help make Ohio the best it can be.

Good Sports is a national non-profit organization dedicated to donating new sports equipment, footwear, and apparel to schools and youth organizations across the U.S. This program allows approved organizations to receive up to eight donations over two years. Eligibility includes serving youth aged 3-18 in high poverty areas and ensuring access to physical activity. Organizations must also adhere to specific requirements, including shipping fees and evaluations after each donation.

The Mary Elizabeth Martin Scholarship Trust, established in 1961, provides financial support for students pursuing higher education in the U.S. Managed by US Bank and the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, this private foundation awards scholarships ranging from $500 to $3,000 annually. Eligible recipients include organizations exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, ensuring that funds are allocated for charitable and educational purposes.

Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi

The Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi manages 314 donor-established funds and has disbursed over $48 million to support more than 1,000 charitable organizations and activities recommended by its donors, as well as charitable programs established by the foundation. Established in 2002 with a generous grant from the Maddox Foundation, the Community Foundation is an independent 501(c)3 charitable organization. The Foundation serves Bolivar, Coahoma, DeSoto, Leflore, Marshall, Panola, Quitman, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tunica and Yalobusha counties. 

Shapoor Alexander Ghane Memorial Endowment

Shapoor Alexander Ghane was a Navy SEAL and to honor his memory this scholarship fund was established to benefit the children of Navy SEAL members who died in action. 

Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are accepted from mid-November until mid-March. Scholarship award recipients will be announced at the high school awards ceremony. 

Meshoppen Creek Scholarship

Established by Reverend Paul Carlson and his wife Myrtle to provide assistance to a graduating high school Senior from Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania who exhibits exceptional promise for their future and who writes a winning essay about their greatest accomplishment in life so far.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Briggs Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Briggs Memorial Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to residents of Chugiak and Eagle River who demonstrate financial need.

The Briggs’s had a long affiliation with Chugiak High School and its graduates. During the early 1970’s, the Briggs family provided financial assistance to Chugiak graduates who, without their assistance, would not have had an opportunity to earn a college education. The only request attached to the “scholarship” was a Christmas card report on their progress and achievements. The intent of this scholarship is to provide assistance where there is definite financial need.

The AARP Community Challenge Grant supports projects that enhance community living for residents aged 50 and older. With a focus on immediate improvements and long-term progress, grants range from $10,000 to $25,000, covering areas like public spaces, transportation, and digital literacy. Since 2017, AARP has awarded over $20.1 million through more than 1,700 grants across the U.S. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and government entities committed to serving the needs of older adults.

Community Foundation of Randolph County

Our mission is to bring people and resources together to strengthen the quality of life, both now and in the future, for the residents of Randolph County.

The Community Foundation’s work falls into three major categories: grant-making, donor service, and community convening. Our most visible activities are the grants and scholarships we award each year. Most of these awards come from income earned from permanently endowed funds. Scholarships and other grants come from funds that donors have established for specific purposes.

Joe & Elizabethe Gardner Scholarship

This scholarship is open to a graduating senior who has applied and been accepted into a University, College, Junior College, or Technical School. Their proposed field of study must be in the area of 1) Home Economics Education, 2) Home Economics Specialty (i.e. dietetics, textiles, etc.), or 3) Home Economics related Health Occupation (listed as nursing, dental assistant, etc.).

Community Foundation of Randolph County

Our mission is to bring people and resources together to strengthen the quality of life, both now and in the future, for the residents of Randolph County.

The Community Foundation’s work falls into three major categories: grant-making, donor service, and community convening. Our most visible activities are the grants and scholarships we award each year. Most of these awards come from income earned from permanently endowed funds. Scholarships and other grants come from funds that donors have established for specific purposes.

U & C Scholarship

Given to students who have been accepted into a 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning and are family members of vendors, business associates or children of company employees of B & F Plastics.

The J. Leeds Barroll Dissertation Prize, awarded by the Shakespeare Association of America, honors exemplary doctoral work with a significant focus on Shakespeare. This prestigious award is conferred annually during the SAA’s Annual Luncheon. To be eligible, applicants must be SAA members in good standing, and dissertations must be approved between September 1, 2024, and September 1, 2025. This prize encourages innovative research and scholarship in Shakespeare studies.

The SAA First Book Award, presented by the Shakespeare Association of America (SAA), honors the legacy of Jerome Singerman and supports early career scholars. This prestigious award recognizes the best monograph with a significant Shakespeare component, published as the first book by a current SAA member between September 1, 2024, and September 1, 2025. The award will be announced during the SAA’s Annual Luncheon, celebrating contributions to Shakespeare studies.

The William and Sally Vaun Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports local students pursuing degrees in medicine or environmental studies with an emphasis on ecology and conservation sciences. This scholarship provides an average award of $1,500 to eligible applicants from the NCCF's 20-town service area. The foundation is dedicated to championing community causes through thoughtful grant-making and scholarships, ensuring impactful support for future leaders.

The Home Depot Foundation's Path to Pro Scholarship aims to support U.S. veterans and train skilled tradespeople. With a commitment of $750 million by 2030, the Foundation has already trained over 44,000 participants. The program collaborates with industry leaders to address the skilled labor gap, offering resources and training in various trades such as carpentry and plumbing. By providing opportunities for high school seniors and graduates, this initiative fosters career development in the home improvement sector.

The PEDIGREE Foundation: Dogs Rule Grant aims to support innovative initiatives that enhance dog adoption rates in the U.S. Established in 2008, the foundation focuses on organizations that improve care for dogs in shelters and rescues. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations with a commitment to creating best practices for increasing adoptions. The program requires a manual or toolkit to be developed and shared with the animal welfare community to ensure sustainability and broader impact.

Community Foundation of Wabash County

Since its creation in 1954, the Community Foundation has grown and continually adapted its priorities to meet the ever-changing needs of the community. Through these changes, challenges, and opportunities to grow as both a leader and provider, the Community Foundation has remained true to its mission and commitment to Wabash County citizens.

Our Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Wabash County offers a wide variety of post-secondary education scholarships to traditional, non-traditional, and graduate students. With nearly 70 different scholarship endowments created through the generosity of our donors, many students are eligible to apply.  

Dr. Howard and Helen Liebengood Scholarship Fund

The Dr. Howard and Helen Liebengood Scholarship is awarded to students who are residents of Kosciusko County graduating in the top 20% of their high school class. Dr. Liebengood was a veterinarian in Silver Lake and did much to support youth, 4-H programs, and his hometown. This renewable scholarship helps promising students who have financial need.

The Community Wellbeing Grant, offered by the Lululemon Centre for Social Impact, aims to enhance wellbeing through movement, mindfulness, and connection. This grant supports community-led non-profits working to address systemic inequities, helping to build access to wellness resources. Applications are encouraged from organizations that prioritize diverse leadership and serve populations facing barriers to wellbeing. The goal is to impact 10 million individuals positively by 2025, fostering equity and resilience in communities worldwide.

The Global Support Fund offers up to $6,000 for First-Year/Direct admits at Northeastern University, enabling them to participate in various approved global experiences. Eligible students must complete the GSF Request Form after acceptance into a program, ensuring they meet deadlines. The funding can cover program fees, airfare, housing, meals, and required course materials, but cannot be used for tuition or personal travel. This initiative encourages exploration and cultural immersion for students.

L.L.Bean Charitable Donations supports outdoor initiatives that bring communities together. The program encourages partnerships with inspiring individuals and organizations. To apply, ensure requests are made at least eight weeks before the event. Please note that the program does not fund individuals, advertising, specific schools, or projects outside the U.S. For more information, visit their website to learn how to get involved.

The Martinson Global Grants provide funding for students admitted to the John Martinson Honors Program at Northeastern University. These grants support participation in approved global experiences, including study abroad and alternative spring break programs. Internal admits can apply for funding to cover various expenses such as program fees, airfare, and housing. It's essential to submit the MGG Request Form and apply before the term's deadline. Note that tuition and personal travel costs are not covered.

Community Foundation of Wabash County

Since its creation in 1954, the Community Foundation has grown and continually adapted its priorities to meet the ever-changing needs of the community. Through these changes, challenges, and opportunities to grow as both a leader and provider, the Community Foundation has remained true to its mission and commitment to Wabash County citizens.

Our Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Wabash County offers a wide variety of post-secondary education scholarships to traditional, non-traditional, and graduate students. With nearly 70 different scholarship endowments created through the generosity of our donors, many students are eligible to apply.  

Paul Thomas Reahard Memorial Scholarship Fund

Paul Reahard taught English, creative writing, and theatre arts at Whitko High School where he was the recipient of the prestigious Dekko Foundation Teacher of the Year Award in 1996. His parents created this scholarship to carry on their son’s legacy of bringing out the best in students and awakening the spark of creativity within themselves. Selection will be based on academic performance, and financial need. Community service, work experience, or an indication of interest in and dedication to activities in performing arts, drama, theater, English literature, or creative writing are contributing factors.