Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois

Burns and McDonnell, a 100% employee-owned firm, partners with Project Lead The Way (PLTW) to enhance access to STEM education. By expanding PLTW Computer Science programs in local schools, they aim to engage students in real-world challenges and equip them with essential skills. Eligible schools must be located in specific counties and serve a majority of students from low-income backgrounds. This initiative supports the growth of STEM education, fostering a brighter future for communities through enhanced learning opportunities.

Ann E. Myers Scholarship

Ann E. Myers was born in Tiffin, Ohio in 1951. She held a Bachelor’s Degree from The Ohio State University and a Master’s Degree in Education from Ashland University, and was a National Board Certified Teacher. Teaching elementary school was Ann’s true calling and joy. She began her teaching career in Lancaster, Ohio in 1973. She taught in Lancaster until 1984, at which time she began teaching in the Dublin, Ohio school system. From 1984 until her retirement in 2012, Ann taught at various elementary grade levels at Olde Sawmill, Wyandot, Scottish Corners, and Indian Run. During her teaching career, Ann gave freely of her time to mentor younger teachers. Above all, she loved her students and would do anything for them. After retirement, Ann volunteered her time at Habitat for Humanity, Franklin County Food Bank, Franklin Park Conservatory, and Upper Arlington Library. Ann battled cancer for many years until her death in 2018. Courage and optimism were her best traits. Ann’s husband established the scholarship to ensure that her legacy of teaching young students the wonders of learning would live on. The scholarship establishes that goal by encouraging Dublin High School students to pursue a career in education.

Award Amount:

• $10,000 payable over four years at $2,500 per academic year.

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust Grants focus on enhancing the quality of life for companion animals and native wildlife. This private foundation supports innovative projects that go beyond basic care, ensuring the well-being of homeless and abused animals. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and be located in specific states, including Ohio and parts of Indiana and Michigan. The Trust emphasizes humane treatment and sustainable funding for animal welfare initiatives.

About Us

Columbus Citizens Foundation celebrates Italian heritage and culture through a broad range of philanthropic and educational activities. The Foundation’s Scholarship program has supported thousands of deserving Italian American students, offering them a chance to fulfill their academic dreams and excel in their endeavors. Since 1929, the Foundation’s most public activity is organizing New York City’s annual Columbus Day Parade, the largest celebration of Italian-American heritage and achievement in the world. CCF offers many programs throughout the year celebrating Italian language, culture, history, and the many connections between Italy and the United States that extend across several centuries and continue to the present day.

CCF Medical School Scholarship

Since 2017, Columbus Citizens Foundation has been awarding scholarships to promising medical school students of Italian heritage. The scholarship that launched CCF’s medical school offerings in 2017 is primarily funded by, and candidates selected in partnership with, the Morgagni Medical Society, an organization founded in 1890 in order to foster the professional, intellectual, and economic development of Italian American physicians.

In 2021, CCF launched the Dr. Anthony S. Fauci Medical School Scholarship, to be awarded annually to Italian American students who exemplify the values and determination of Dr. Fauci. The scholarship supports students with great academic prowess seeking financial aid at the graduate level in medical and public health fields of study.

The PLTW Engineering program expansion, supported by Ardagh Group, aims to enhance educational opportunities for over 500,000 PreK-12 students in local communities. This initiative will not only add new PLTW Engineering courses but also provide training for more than 5,000 teachers across 2,000 schools over the next decade. By fostering access to quality education, Ardagh Group is committed to building vibrant communities and ensuring equal opportunities for all students.

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust offers grants aimed at enhancing the lives of animals in the Ohio/Great Lakes region. It prioritizes projects that foster animal adoption, behavior training, and humane education. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and demonstrate a commitment to animal welfare. The Trust seeks innovative, collaborative initiatives that significantly improve the well-being of animals, particularly in underserved communities, ensuring a high quality of life for both individual animals and larger populations.

The FY 2027 Service Area Competition (SAC) funding aims to enhance health services in underserved communities across the U.S. by providing grants for comprehensive preventive and primary health care. The initiative supports health centers in delivering essential services, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the care they need. Service areas for competition are announced periodically, and additional areas may be added if existing centers are unable to continue their services.

The PLTW Engineering program, in partnership with Ardagh Group, aims to enhance education in local communities over the next decade, impacting over 500,000 PreK-12 students and training more than 5,000 teachers across 2,000 schools in the U.S. This initiative is supported by a $50,000 grant, distributed over three years, facilitating diverse engineering courses and improving educational equity. Ardagh Group, a global leader in sustainable packaging, emphasizes the importance of education in fostering vibrant communities.

The Michael Scott Kramer Memorial Scholarship, offered by the San Juan Island Community Foundation, is designed for post-secondary students pursuing education in fields like recreation, adventure tourism, and marine trades. This scholarship honors Mike Kramer, a beloved outdoorsman, by encouraging students to embrace life and adventure. Candidates should demonstrate community service, a strong work ethic, and a passion for their studies. It aims to inspire the next generation to live authentically and pursue their dreams.

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. 

THS Patricia Roppel Memorial Scholarship Fund

The THS Patricia Roppel Memorial Scholarship is a $5,000 award made annually to an undergraduate or graduate student who is either enrolled or intends to enroll at an accredited college and majoring in history, pursuing the study of Alaska. 

The Tongass Historical Society is a private, non-profit corporation whose purpose is to discover, preserve, and disseminate knowledge of the history of Ketchikan and Southeast Alaska for present and future generations. Established in 1961, the Society brings together people of all ages who share an interest in Ketchikan’s rich and colorful heritage. The Tongass Historical Society is actively pursuing the preservation of the information and items intimate with our unique part of Alaska.

This scholarship is in memory of Patricia “Pat” Roppel– author, historian, and Alaskan. Pat moved to Alaska in 1959, where she and her husband Frank grew to love Southeastern Alaska. Her numerous published works about Southeast Alaska spanned various topics ranging from business to salmon hatcheries in the area.

Pat is remembered as someone who was open and loved to share her love and knowledge with others. Her legacy is remembered in the awarding of this scholarship.

NASA's ROSES25: A.13 Accelerating Earth Solutions aims to enhance the integration of Earth-observing satellite data in decision-making across three key areas: identifying critical issues, developing actionable solutions, and scaling the impact of existing initiatives. Proposals can span one to three years, depending on the focus area, and are designed to foster innovative approaches to environmental challenges.

The FY 2027 Service Area Competition (SAC) aims to enhance health services in underserved communities across the U.S. by providing grants for comprehensive primary and preventive care. This initiative will support health centers in delivering high-quality services, addressing the needs of populations that face barriers to care. Each funding opportunity will specify service areas available for competition, ensuring effective resource allocation to improve community health outcomes.

The Institute of Education Sciences (IES) offers a grant to support state education agencies in utilizing longitudinal data systems to inform policies and programs for learners with disabilities. This initiative aims to enhance evidence-based decision-making at both state and local levels, ensuring better educational outcomes for at-risk students. The grant encourages collaboration and effective use of data to promote informed policymaking in special education.

The Development of Fiscal Year 2027 Commercial Vehicle Safety Plans aims to enhance national safety goals by reducing incidents involving commercial motor vehicles. This initiative, funded by the US Department of Transportation's FMCSA, provides crucial financial support to states and territories. Through the Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program, the focus is on minimizing crashes, injuries, and fatalities associated with commercial vehicle operations, ensuring safer roads for all.

The FY 2027 Service Area Competition (SAC) aims to enhance health services in underserved communities across the U.S. and its territories. This funding opportunity supports comprehensive preventive and primary health care delivery. Each SAC announcement details service areas available for competition, with potential additional areas announced throughout the year. This initiative is crucial for ensuring continuous access to quality health care for vulnerable populations.

The NIH Common Fund Data Ecosystem aims to enhance the reusability of biomedical data through collaboration between Common Fund programs and external data resources. This funding opportunity encourages projects that connect various biomedical data ecosystems, including the HEAL Data Ecosystem and the BRAIN Initiative. By fostering partnerships, the initiative seeks to improve the accessibility and interoperability of valuable datasets, ultimately advancing research efforts. Note that clinical trials are excluded from this funding opportunity.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Kent R. Smith Scholarship

Student must be pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in the field of education at an accredited college or university.

Selection based upon:

• Academic ability, financial need, demonstrated community and school service, and recommendations.

Various amounts up to $20,000 in scholarships

The FY 2027 Service Area Competition (SAC) funding aims to enhance healthcare access in underserved communities across the U.S. by providing grants for comprehensive primary and preventive health services. This initiative addresses essential health needs through competitive funding opportunities, ensuring that health centers can effectively serve their designated areas. Additional service areas may be announced as needed if current centers are unable to continue their operations, thus maintaining service continuity.

The Leadership Education in Adolescent Health (LEAH) Program, funded by the US HHS: Health Resources & Services Administration, aims to enhance the quality of care for adolescents and young adults. By establishing graduate training programs, LEAH prepares healthcare professionals to effectively address chronic disease prevention and improve access to team-based healthcare services for this population, ultimately fostering better health outcomes and empowering future leaders in adolescent health.

The Michigan Animal Health Foundation offers research and education grants to enhance animal health and welfare. Since 1977, these grants have supported nearly 50 projects aimed at improving veterinary care and medical techniques. Eligibility varies, with specific criteria for research grants, while educational grants have no restrictions. Researchers and educators alike can benefit from this funding, which plays a vital role in advancing animal health initiatives.

The H.S. Lopez Family Foundation Grant focuses on funding innovative projects that enhance the quality of life, primarily in Arizona. With an emphasis on health, education, and welfare, the foundation aims to support not-for-profit organizations that address critical community needs. Grants are awarded to initiatives that demonstrate potential for lasting impact and community benefit, encouraging sustainable support beyond the foundation's involvement.

The Edward and Wanda Jordan Family Foundation Grant aims to support education, scientific research, and spiritual ministries through voluntary grants. Focused on enhancing the welfare and quality of life for children and youth, this foundation perpetuates the charitable intentions of the Jordan family. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations that align with these values and objectives, ensuring impactful contributions to the community.

The First Bank Chicago Grant is dedicated to supporting local non-profit organizations in Lake and Cook Counties. With over 65 years of community service, First Bank emphasizes charitable contributions, event sponsorships, and volunteer efforts to strengthen community ties. Priority is given to current non-profit clients of the bank, ensuring that resources are effectively allocated to those making a positive impact in the community.

The AJ Muste Foundation's Rapid Response Grants support U.S.-based organizations engaged in grassroots activism for social justice. These grants, up to $5,000, are aimed at addressing immediate needs of groups fighting for equality and liberation. The funding is designed for unexpected opportunities and emergencies, promoting powerful organizing efforts. The foundation prioritizes groups lacking traditional funding sources and those focused on systemic change rather than individual support.

The Alpha Foundation Grant, established in 1997, focuses on enhancing the human condition by supporting educational, scientific, and charitable organizations. With a strong emphasis on biotechnology, the foundation aims to aid in disease discovery and cure. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily operating in Madison County, Alabama. The foundation does not fund individuals or political activities, ensuring its resources directly benefit public charities.

The Preserve Route 66 Grant Fund offers financial support to public agencies, tribal governments, and nonprofit organizations aiming to preserve historic places along Route 66. This initiative prioritizes projects that enhance underrepresented narratives, including those related to diverse communities. Grants typically range from $2,500 to $10,000, with a focus on activities that restore, rehabilitate, or educate about significant historical sites, ensuring that this iconic American highway's legacy is maintained for future generations.

Armstrong County Community Foundation

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Richard and Mary Krauland Scholarship

This scholarship was established to provide scholarship funding to pursue a career in math or engineering.

Scholarship Details

• Available to High School Seniors
• Nonrenewable

All ACCF Scholarships are merit based.