Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois

About The NRA Foundation

The heart of The NRA Foundation’s mission is preserving the core of our American values and traditions in our steadfast effort to Teach Freedom.

The NRA Foundation Supports Freedom, Family, and the Future of the Shooting Sports

Established in 1990, The NRA Foundation, Inc. (“NRA Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that raises tax-deductible contributions in support of a wide range of firearm-related public interest activities of the National Rifle Association of America and other organizations that defend and foster the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans.

The heart of The NRA Foundation’s mission is preserving the core of our American values and traditions in our steadfast effort to Teach Freedom.

Established in 1990, The NRA Foundation, Inc. (“NRA Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that raises tax-deductible contributions in support of a wide range of firearm-related public interest activities of the National Rifle Association of America and other organizations that defend and foster the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans. These activities are designed to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those participating in the shooting sports, and to educate the general public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context. Funds granted by The NRA Foundation benefit a variety of constituencies throughout the United States including children, youth, women, individuals with physical disabilities, gun collectors, law enforcement officers, hunters and competitive shooters.

The NRA Foundation Frontline Heroes Scholarship

The NRA Foundation Board of Trustees has established the Frontline Heroes Scholarship to institute a memorial to this distinguished group of First Responders, Law Enforcement Officers, and Military personnel*, who have served continuously and unselfishly in the highest tradition of our great nation.

The Frontline Heroes Scholarship will give a one-time annual award of up to $10,000** for one eligible candidate.

The Start-Up Research Grant aims to support early-career researchers establishing independent research careers. Grants are awarded for two years, enabling applicants to submit future proposals. The program emphasizes scientific excellence and collaboration between Israeli and American scientists. Eligible junior principal investigators (PIs) must be within ten years of their PhD or MD completion. Notably, the grant does not cover PI salaries and requires adherence to BSF's application standards.

The National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) for FY2026/27 offers competitive grants aimed at supporting non-Federal researchers. This initiative, governed by the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, focuses on developing innovative fishing practices and gear technologies to minimize bycatch and reduce post-release mortality of non-target species. By addressing bycatch reduction, the program seeks to enhance the sustainability of U.S. fisheries and aquaculture, aligning with the National Marine Fisheries Service's conservation goals.

Michael L. Hamaker Memorial Scholarship

A scholarship awarded to a graduating senior or previous graduate from Marshall, Olivet or the surrounding area seeking a career in engineering, manufacturing or industrial technologies with programs such as, but not limited to, architecture, construction, drafting, electronics, welding and/or other related technologies. Applicants must demonstrate financial need. GPA is not a qualifying factor; however, transcripts and test scores are requested. Students who receive this scholarship are encouraged to apply for further support in subsequent years.

The Sustainable Development Grant Program, funded by The Rockefeller Brothers Fund, aims to combat climate change by promoting ecological stewardship, economic viability, and social equity. It supports initiatives that enhance public understanding, implement clean energy solutions, and foster international cooperation. The program prioritizes projects that address the urgent threats posed by climate change while ensuring that development efforts are sustainable and inclusive for future generations.

The Jeffers, Danielson, Sonn & Aylward Law Scholarship supports Chelan and Douglas County high school graduates pursuing a degree in Law or Paralegal studies. Applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA. This scholarship encourages local students to advance their legal education, fostering a new generation of legal professionals committed to serving their communities.

The Frankenthaler Climate Initiative's Catalyst Grant supports organizations in the visual arts sector to take quick, impactful actions toward sustainability. Since 2021, the initiative has awarded over $10 million, fostering a shift to carbon-neutral operations. Eligible applicants include nonprofit entities that prioritize visual arts, aiming to reduce environmental impact through clean energy, efficiency improvements, and innovative practices. This grant promotes a greener future while enhancing the importance of arts education and ecological stewardship.

The Marv VandenBosch Scholarship, established by Sandra VandenBosch and her children in memory of Marv VandenBosch, supports Tri-Cities students pursuing careers in criminal justice or law enforcement. This scholarship considers financial need and requires applicants to have a minimum GPA of 2.5. The Grand Haven Area Community Foundation administers the scholarship through a competitive process, ensuring that each applicant is thoroughly reviewed to promote academic achievement and community involvement.

The BUILD Grant Program, managed by the USDOT, focuses on enhancing surface transportation infrastructure with substantial local impact. It supports a variety of project sponsors, including state and local governments, in pursuing complex multi-modal initiatives that are often challenging to fund through traditional grants. Established under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, this program reflects a commitment to sustainable and equitable infrastructure development.

10,000 Degrees

What We Do

From college dreams, to graduation day, to your first career, we’ll be there for your entire journey—with near-peer support, scholarships, financial aid assistance, resources, and more.

Sonoma County Medical Association & Alliance Health Careers Scholarship

The Sonoma County Medical Association & Alliance Health Careers Scholarship Fund, administered by 10,000 Degrees, was established in 2001 to support students pursuing a career in medicine, nursing, or other allied health fields. This scholarship is open to undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree students.

The FY 2026 funding opportunity aims to support Indian Tribes and intertribal consortia in implementing approved Nonpoint Source management programs under the Clean Water Act Section 319. This initiative, funded by the EPA, focuses on addressing NPS pollution through best management practices as outlined in Tribal NPS Management Program Plans, ensuring the protection of water resources and promoting sustainability in Tribal lands.

The David E. Rogers Student Fellowship Award, offered by the New York Academy of Medicine, aims to enhance the educational journey of medical and dental students through impactful community health projects. This initiative supports research endeavors during the summer, providing stipends of $4,000 for up to five selected projects. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens or authorized residents, pursuing research that addresses health disparities and the needs of underserved populations.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

G. William & Freda S. Moore Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to students pursuing studies in business or accounting.

G. William Moore grew up on a farm near Paducah, Kentucky. He graduated from Bowling Green College of Commerce with a degree in higher accounting.

Mr. Moore served in the United States Navy during World War II reaching the rank of lieutenant. He came to Aurora in 1946 to work as a CPA for a local accounting firm.

In 1949, he opened his own firm and continued in practice until 1977. He then joined his practice with a firm from Champaign, Illinois, predecessor to Sikich Gardner & Co.

Mr. Moore is a member of Wesley United Methodist Church and the Aurora Noon Kiwanis Club.

Freda S. Moore (1918-2004) was a native of Clarksburg, West Virginia. She graduated from Bowling Green College of Commerce with a degree in business administration.

After graduation, she taught business courses at the high school level. During World War II, she worked for the United States Air Force in Norfolk, Virginia.

Mrs. Moore was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church and was an accomplished musician, playing the piano, saxophone and clarinet.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Jerry J. Murphy MSW Scholarship Fund

The Jerry J. Murphy MSW Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to students pursuing a Master of Social Work degree.

Jerry Murphy is the retired Executive Director of the INC Board. He served residents of Kane County for over 28 years during his time with the organization.

INC Board, NFP, is an Illinois, not-for-profit corporation which was chartered as Mental Health and Mental Retardation Services on April 21, 1969, to promote the creation of local mental health boards authorized under 405 Illinois Compiled Statutes §20/3a.

The Care Camps Grant supports children with cancer by funding medically supervised oncology camps that provide joy, hope, and healing through outdoor experiences. With the mission to foster a sense of community and shared healing, Care Camps Foundation aims to serve every child and family affected by pediatric cancer in the US and Canada. By collaborating with donors and volunteers, the foundation ensures that each contribution maximizes benefits for the families in need.

The Tribal Epidemiology Centers initiative aims to support currently unserved areas through a new cohort of TEC sites. Funded by the US Dept. of Health & Human Services: Indian Health Service, this program seeks to enhance public health capacity within tribal communities, ensuring access to essential health services and resources. The initiative underscores a commitment to addressing health disparities and promoting wellness among Native populations.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Olsson Roofing Company, Inc. Scholarship Fund

In 1988, Olsson Roofing Company, Inc. of Aurora created a scholarship fund within the Community Foundation for area students.

Scholarships from this fund are awarded in recognition of high scholastic achievement, participation in school activities and leadership potential.

These awards are reserved for students whose parents are actively involved in the roofing trade or construction industry.

Through the generosity and commitment of this civic-minded company, many students have received needed assistance for their college educations.

The Urban Indian Health 4-in-1 Program is designed to enhance the health and well-being of urban Native Americans through targeted initiatives in immunization, health promotion, disease prevention, mental health support, and addressing alcohol and substance abuse issues. Funded by the US Dept. of Health & Human Services, this program aims to improve access to essential health services and foster healthier communities among urban Indian populations.

American Headache Society

The American Headache Society (AHS) is a professional society of healthcare providers dedicated to the study and treatment of headache and face pain. The Mission of the AHS is to improve the lives of people impacted by migraine and other headache disorders. AHS advocates for those impacted by headache and the headache field, to meet our core objectives. AHS provides educational courses, scientific meetings, a journal, research support, career development opportunities, Special Interest Groups, advocacy training, and a professional community. The AHS strives to meet its objectives while fostering an inclusive sense of belonging and community.

Headache & Migraine Competitive Grant Program

The Headache & Migraine Competitive Grant Program stands at the forefront of advancing headache medicine by funding groundbreaking quality improvement initiatives. This highly competitive grant program, offered through the collaboration between the American Headache Society and Pfizer, supports projects that have the potential to reshape the field by creating widely applicable tools and driving measurable improvements in patient care. 

Migraine & Women's Health

Migraine is a prevalent and debilitating neurological disease that disproportionately affects women, impacting quality of life, productivity, and overall health. Recognizing the need for innovative solutions and enhanced care, Pfizer and the American Headache Society (AHS) are collaborating to offer a new grant opportunity inviting proposals for collaborative quality improvement and research projects focused on migraine and women's health.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Robert L. & Marjory J. Nelson Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to students pursuing a career in the medical field of study with a preference to those students entering the field of nursing.

Marjory Nelson (1928-1998) received her bachelor of arts degree from Aurora University and her R.N. certification from the Copley Hospital School of Nursing.

She also undertook additional graduate studies at Northern Illinois University and the National College of Education.

She was employed by Copley Memorial Hospital and later served as a nurse for the East Aurora Schools.

This fund was created by Mrs. Nelson’s family and friends to provide recognition of her extraordinary dedication to the field of nursing.

Upon the passing of her husband Robert, the Nelson family added his name to the fund.

Robert Nelson (1924-2015) was a veteran of World War II. He served with the Navy in Europe and the Marines in the Pacific.

He worked in the field of education and was a retired principal in School District 44 in Lombard, Illinois.

Mr. and Mrs. Nelson were survived by two daughters and three grandchildren.

Created in 2004, the fund became an endowment in 2005.

The Youth Regional Treatment Center Aftercare Program aims to support American Indian and Alaska Native youth in maintaining safety, sobriety, and success post-discharge from Youth Regional Treatment Centers. This initiative enhances culturally relevant, community-based aftercare by fostering care coordination, building partnerships, and addressing barriers to improve youth outcomes.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Theodore Silseth Nelson Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to students returning to school after a lapse of several years since high school graduation. The awards are given to students pursuing a two or four-year degree in health care, with a preference for both financial need and students seeking a registered nurse certification. Theodore Nelson (1937-2017) was employed as a large commercial account underwriter in the insurance industry. He created this fund out of respect for the competency of those in the healthcare profession and to encourage those who wish to improve themselves by returning to school after being in the workforce. 

The Juan Diego Guadiana Legacy Foundation Scholarship supports students from Las Cruces High School or Doña Ana County, especially those affected by cancer treatment or pursuing health-related fields. This scholarship is open to various backgrounds, including BiPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. The foundation aims to empower students at different educational stages, ensuring they have the resources necessary to thrive in their academic and professional journeys.

Spencer Educational Foundation Inc

The Spencer Educational Foundation was founded by the Rims Atlanta Chapter in 1979. To this day, Spencer remains the premier organization funding the education of tomorrow's risk management and insurance leaders.

The Spencer Educational Foundation: awards merit-based scholarships and grants to university students pursuing careers in risk management, insurance, and/or actuarial science; provides grants that create experiential learning opportunities both on and off campus; funds the development of risk management and insurance curricula in colleges and universities; supports Risk Managers by creating internship opportunities within the risk management function of their companies; and operates across the United States and Canada. 

Spencer Educational Foundation: General Grants

Spencer’s goal to help build a talent pipeline of Risk Management and Insurance professionals is achieved in part by our collaboration with Risk Management and Insurance educators across the United States and Canada. Since 2010, Spencer has awarded over $4.5 million in General Grants to support over 225 student-centered experiential learning initiatives at universities and RMI non-profit orgs.

Spencer's General Grants Program supports student-centered initiatives that (1) provide experiential learning opportunities for Risk Management & Insurance students and (2) attract new talent to risk and insurance careers. 

The Growing Convergence Research (GCR) initiative by the National Science Foundation (NSF) promotes innovative solutions to complex societal and scientific challenges through multidisciplinary collaboration. By integrating diverse expertise, GCR aims to address specific problems and foster new research paradigms. Proposals must outline a five-year plan, divided into two phases, with budgets not exceeding $1.2 million for Phase I and $2.4 million for Phase II. Successful projects are expected to lead to transformative advances in science and technology.

This funding opportunity aims to address the urgent mental health crisis in the U.S. by promoting research that enhances access to evidence-based practices for youth. It encourages applications focusing on interventions for underserved populations, including those facing housing and food insecurities. Researchers are invited to explore strategies for improving service delivery, overcoming workforce challenges, and integrating care into accessible settings, ultimately striving for equitable mental health services for all youth.

Who We Are

We weave the work of communities, connecting and uplifting passionate people, critical resources and transformational ideas. Working side by side with every corner and sector of our region, we have identified social and economic justice as the most critical elements to a thriving community. We serve to advance efforts in these areas by fostering impactful giving, trusted partnerships and authentic engagement for a more equitable southwest Washington.

John and Maradee Potter Scholarship

Maradee Potter established this scholarship to honor her husband, John who died in 2021. John was retired from his career as a proofreader legal editor. John and Maradee were married for 36 years. Maradee is honoring her husband and her work to provide scholarships for students who have graduated from high schools located in Clark County, Washington and have been a recipient of Special Education services with a documented disability. Maradee worked in the Vancouver Public Schools as a Special Education Teacher during her career and continues to be an advocate for people with disabilities by serving on the Clark County Community Services Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board and Homes for Community Living Board. It is important to the donor that people with disabilities have equitable access to education and the support necessary to pursue post-secondary education and career training.

Award Information

The number and amount of scholarships will be determined by the scholarship committee. The scholarship may be renewable. Renewal applicants must reapply each year.