Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Iowa

The Ira Cobe Scholarship Fund, established by the estate of Ira M. Cobe, supports educational expenses for Waldo County residents under 23. With a maximum award of $500, the fund promotes curriculum-based opportunities, including class trips and educational supplies. Eligible students must share costs and preference is given to those who haven't received funding this year. Proposals are reviewed on a rolling basis to ensure timely support for educational pursuits.

The AGA: Student Abstract Award offers a $500 travel grant to graduate students, medical students, and residents (up to postgraduate year three) presenting at Digestive Disease Week® (DDW). It aims to inspire interest in gastroenterology research by recognizing outstanding abstracts, with the top scorer honored as the Student Abstract of the Year and awarded an additional $1,000. Applicants must be sponsored by an AGA member and may only submit one abstract.

About the Chester County Community Foundation

Our Mission

The Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with the causes that matter, so their philanthropy makes a difference now and forever.

Charles W. and Michelle Dickinson Scholarship Fund

The purpose of the Charles W. & Michelle Dickinson Scholarship Fund is to support charitable causes, with a particular emphasis on Christian-based organizations and initiatives that serve individuals, families, and communities in need.

In addition, the Fund is committed to investing in the next generation of skilled trades professionals by awarding scholarships to students pursuing careers in vocational and technical fields, including:

• Diesel Mechanics
• Automotive Mechanics
• Welding
• Auto Body Repair
• Collision Repair

Through charitable giving and educational support, the Fund seeks to create opportunities, encourage self-sufficiency, and make a lasting impact in the lives of individuals while honoring the values of faith, hard work, service, and community,

Charles W. Dickinson is the founder of D&D Collision Services, C M D Services Inc & Pottstown Area Rapid Transit.

About Us

For over three decades, the Hamilton Education Foundation (HEF) has been sparking innovation and expanding horizons within our classrooms. Since 1991, this community-powered non-profit has channeled more than $2.5 million from passionate individuals, local businesses, and forward-thinking organizations directly into the hands of Hamilton’s students and teachers. 

By funding transformative workshops, creative projects, and classroom grants, HEF doesn't just support education—it inspires students to dream bigger, rewards academic excellence, and builds a stronger, more vibrant community.

Our Vision

The vision of the Hamilton Education Foundation is to assist in achieving creative and academic excellence for the 21st Century through funding activities and projects for students and educators in the Hamilton School District.

Our Mission

Our mission, in partnership with the community, is to fund, Enhanced, Extended, and Enriched learning opportunities for students and educators in the Hamilton School District.

Student Grants

Evaluation Factors

Applications are reviewed based on:

The Diane Ober and Kevin Hubbard Memorial Blue Sky Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports residents of Islesboro and graduates of Islesboro Central School who are 23 or older. It encourages projects and studies that nurture individual passions, honoring the adventurous spirits of Diane Ober and Kevin Hubbard. Preference is given to applicants who have shown resilience, kindness, and a desire to learn. This fund aims to foster personal growth and community development.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Community Foundation of Henderson County was incorporated in 1982 by a group of fourteen dedicated and compassionate local leaders with the immediate need to manage two funds - the William C. Armstrong Scholarship Fund and the Charlie Renfrow Scholarship Fund, in addition to providing a permanent vehicle for citizens to give back to their community.

Our Mission is to help people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter. The Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

American Legion, Post 77, Hubert M. Smith Scholarship

The applicant must be the son, daughter, grandson, granddaughter or stepchild of a current member in good standing for 12 months prior to the scholarship deadline, or of a deceased member in good standing at the time of his death, of Hubert M. Smith, Post 77, American Legion. The applicant must be age 23 or less at the time of the application and be a graduating senior or graduate of a public, parochial or private school who intends to enroll in a two-year or four-year degree granting program.

About the Chester County Community Foundation

Our Mission

The Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with the causes that matter, so their philanthropy makes a difference now and forever.

American Association of University Women West Chester – Chester County Affiliate

Mission Statement

The American Association of University Women West Chester – Chester County Affiliate Scholarship was created in 1998 by the AAUW West Chester-Chester County Branch to recognize member Alice Lawson’s commitment to the mission and values of AAUW, the nation’s leading voice promoting education and equity for women and girls. The purpose of this fund is to provide educational scholarships to women from Chester County with special needs and circumstances.

Alice was a lifelong member of AAUW. Wherever she and her husband lived, Alice always joined the local AAUW, knowing she would meet and enjoy the company of other college-educated women. Of the many activities she enjoyed in West Chester, her AAUW book group was probably her favorite.

The award amount may vary from year to year. For the 2026/27 school year, we are awarding two $7,500 scholarships.

About CFHC

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission

Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Business & Professional Women's Club

Applicant must be a graduating senior from a school in Henderson County and show strong academic standing with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate financial need. Applicant must be pursuing their undergraduate education in a two- or four-year accredited institution.

About CFHC

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission

Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Bright Futures Scholarship Fund

Successful candidates should be focused, energetic individuals who demonstrate a high level of personal initiative.

About CFHC

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission

Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Anthony Kushigian (Normac) Scholarship

The student should demonstrate scholastic ability, financial need, character, leadership ability, participation in extracurricular activities, be of good moral character, and reflect a willingness to work, learn and pursue their education.

National Federation of the Blind of Louisiana

The National Federation of the Blind of Louisiana provides a network of support and encouragement and promotes an understanding of the real problems of blindness... the attitudes and misconceptions which we and the general public have about blindness. We believe that with training and opportunity (and these are important) the average blind or visually impaired person can lead a perfectly normal life--not just dream about it.

National Federation of the Blind of Louisiana Scholarships

Each year at its State Convention, the National Federation of the Blind of Louisiana (NFBL) awards merit-based scholarships to recognize the achievement of blind scholars. 

Previous winners of NFBL scholarships and others who have applied in the past are encouraged to reapply. 

National Federation of the Blind of Maryland

With more than 50,000 members, the National Federation of the Blind is the largest and most influential membership organization of blind people in the United States. The NFB improves blind people’s lives through advocacy, education, research, technology, and programs encouraging independence and self-confidence. It is the leading force in the blindness field today and the voice of the nation’s blind.

The NFB has affiliates in all fifty states plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, and over seven hundred local chapters.

Indiana State Affiliate Scholarship

When the application for the national scholarship is submitted, the applicant is automatically eligible for the state level scholarship. The application that is used for the national scholarship is the same one that is used for the state scholarship; however it is mailed to our scholarship committee chair person.

The state level Scholarship is awarded to 1 student for 1,000, Or 2 students for 500 each.

Morgan Hasbrouck 4-H Scholarship Fund

Established in memory of Morgan Hasbrouck, who was an active member of the Summit Sizzlers 4-H Livestock Club, to provide scholarships for active or former 4-H members.

Amount:

• Varies

Number of awards:

• Varies

Renewal:

• Must reapply annually by submission of a new application.

The Cindy Colglazier Scholarship, managed by the Brown County Community Foundation, aims to support students pursuing education in healthcare fields at accredited institutions. This scholarship is available to residents of Bartholomew, Brown, and Monroe Counties, including high school graduates, current college students, and G.E.D. graduates. The Foundation has a long-standing commitment to education and provides essential funding to help students achieve their academic goals.

The ACUMEN Scholarship, provided by the East Bay Community Foundation, aims to support financially challenged students from Youth Spirit Artworks, Oakland Tech High School, and McClymonds High School. Each year, up to three scholarships are awarded, with amounts of $5,000 for 2-year colleges and $8,000 for 4-year colleges. This initiative is designed to assist students with educational costs, encouraging their commitment to higher education.

The National Geographic Content Scholarship, offered by the United Negro College Fund, supports juniors and seniors from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Recipients receive a $10,000 award and participate in a one-week immersion program with National Geographic, gaining valuable industry experience and mentorship. This program seeks passionate individuals interested in creative storytelling and environmental advocacy, promoting diversity and inclusion within the media field.

The Denmark Lions Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to deserving high school graduates from Denmark. This initiative supports local students pursuing post-secondary education and those with a history of community service. Since its inception 30 years ago, the fund has aimed to empower individuals and strengthen the community through education, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder academic aspirations.

National Federation of the Blind

Founded in 1940, the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) is the largest and most influential membership organization of blind persons in the United States. With fifty thousand members, the NFB has affiliates in all fifty states plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, and over seven hundred local chapters. As a consumer and advocacy organization, the NFB is considered the leading force in the blindness field today.

The goals of the NFB are to ensure opportunity, security and equality for all blind citizens. The purpose of the National Federation of the Blind is two-fold—to help blind persons achieve self-confidence and self-respect and to act as a vehicle for collective self-expression by the blind.

Members of the NFB strive to educate the public that the blind are normal individuals who can compete on terms of equality with our sighted peers.

The NFB has created a wide array of services to blind and visually impaired persons of all ages. We provide public education about blindness, information and referral services, scholarships, literature and publications about blindness, aids and appliances and other adaptive equipment for the blind.

National Federation of the Blind of Idaho (NFBI) Scholarship

The National Federation of the Blind of Idaho (NFBI), awards merit-based scholarships to blind/visually impaired, functionally blind, high school seniors or college students annually. 

There will be three (3) merit-based scholarships in the amount of $3,000 awarded at the state convention of the NFBI in Boise Idaho. Scholarship finalists will have their expenses paid and are required to attend the convention.

Please note, individuals are limited to receiving an NFBI scholarship a maximum of two (2), times.

The Dorothy Stewart Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Brown County Community Foundation, aims to foster interest in public and environmental affairs. It provides financial support to graduates of Brown County High School or G.E.D. recipients who demonstrate exceptional citizenship and community involvement. Eligible candidates must pursue a degree in relevant fields, ensuring that the scholarship contributes to the development of future leaders in these critical areas.

The TFEC Aspire to Rise Scholarship Fund, managed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, offers financial support to non-traditional students aged 22 and older who have faced challenges in their educational journey. This scholarship is aimed at those pursuing higher education or vocational training, with special consideration for applicants without a post-secondary degree. Additionally, it supports individuals preparing for the GED, fostering opportunities for personal and professional growth in South Central Pennsylvania.

The TFEC Student Emergency Assistance Fund provides crucial financial support for students facing unexpected hardships that threaten their continuation in post-secondary education. Grants of up to $500 per application are available, with a total funding limit of $1,500 for re-applications. This initiative is part of The Foundation for Enhancing Communities' mission to bolster local educational opportunities and foster community resilience, ensuring that students can overcome financial barriers and achieve their academic goals.

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.

National Federation of the Blind of Hawaii

The ultimate purpose of the NFB of Hawai`i is the complete integration of the blind into society on a basis of equality. This objective involves the removal of legal, economic and social discriminations; the education of the public to new concepts concerning blindness; and the achievement by all blind people of the right to exercise to the fullest their individual talents and capacities. It means the right of the blind to work along with their sighted neighbors in the professions, common callings, skilled trades, and regular occupations.

The National Federation of the Blind defends the rights of blind people of all ages and provides information and support to families with blind children, older Americans who are losing vision, and more. We believe in the hopes and dreams of blind people and work together to transform them into reality. You can live the life you want; blindness is not what holds you back.

We are the transformative membership and advocacy organization of blind people. Securing Independence. Protecting Rights. Enhancing Education. We Are Blind People.

National Federation of the Blind of Hawaii Scholarship

Each year, the National Federation of the Blind of Hawaii awards up to three scholarships to residents of Hawaii during the annual State Convention. The scholarship is for any blind or visually impaired individual attending or planning to attend a post-secondary institution. This may include undergraduate or graduate college, business, or trade school. Scholarship winners may be attending our annual State Convention, as well as monthly chapter meetings. 

The York Rotary Foundation, supported by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, offers scholarships to assist York County students in pursuing higher education. These scholarships reward academic excellence and community involvement, with a focus on graduating seniors and adult learners. There are 11 specific scholarships available, each with unique criteria. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster community growth.

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.

Medina Sunrise Rotary Fund

Established by Medina Sunrise Rotary Club to provide scholarships for Medina County seniors.

Amount: Varies

• $1,000-$2,000

Number of awards:

• Varies

Renewal:

• No

The Bill Cox Memorial Scholarship offers a $1,750 award to graduating seniors from Spokane High School, aimed at supporting their educational aspirations. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher, demonstrate financial need through FAFSA-SAI, and submit a transcript along with an essay detailing community service and school activities. A letter of recommendation is also required. The scholarship application period will reopen on January 1, 2026 for the 2026–27 academic year.