Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Iowa

About Us

Midlands Community Foundation (MCF) is here to serve and add value to donors’ philanthropic needs by providing them an opportunity to “invest in the power of community.” It is our goal to identify current and emerging issues, channel resources to address community needs, and help prepare for the future.

MCF Mission

The mission of Midlands Community Foundation is to be a catalyst for lasting impact in Sarpy and Cass counties and to give opportunities to organizations and individuals to pursue their charitable goals.

Scholarships Through MCF

Midlands Community Foundation is committed to the futures of communities in Sarpy and Cass Counties, and across the country. Supporting higher education of students is a direct investment in the futures of these communities.

Alex Shives Scholarship Application Guidelines

The purpose of the Fund is to distribute scholarships to assist qualified recipients in their pursuit of higher education who have graduated or will be a graduating senior from either Papillion LaVista or Papillion LaVista South High School and who have participated on the boys or girls golf team at either high school.

The Fund shall annually distribute one (1) scholarship in the total amount of $2,500, split evenly per semester (i.e., $1,250 Fall Semester, and $1,250 Spring Semester).

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to establish a fund with us. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Smith, Dr Melody Scholarship

This fund was established in recognition of Dr. Melody Smith by the St. Joseph School District Foundation to provide academic scholarships to graduates of the St. Joseph School District pursuing a degree in education.

Guidelines:

The scholarship is recurring for up to two years, payable in August and January. Before processing the payments, the following information will need to be sent to the Community Foundation during the sophomore year of college:

• Verification of acceptance into the Education Program from the Program Director (or a copy of the education major/minor form signed by the student and academic advisor)
• Letter from the University verifying your enrollment for the upcoming semester including the student ID number
• Verification from  the university that the student is maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher

Amount:

Minimum of $1,000 annually, for up to two years payable in August and January. The second installment will be released upon proof of good academic progress (transcript required as proof) and enrollment in the declared education program.

The Yappers Grant, provided by the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque, aims to empower youth aged 0-25 by funding nonprofit organizations that create opportunities and raise awareness for local issues. Eligible organizations must operate for at least a year and comply with anti-discrimination laws. The grants focus on improving health, stable living, effective education, and career advancement for disadvantaged youth, promoting sustainable solutions and community participation.

The Watson-Brown Foundation Scholarship offers need and merit-based financial assistance to students from Georgia and South Carolina attending accredited four-year colleges. Established in 1970, the foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities for underprivileged youth, awarding over $2.4 million annually. Eligible students can receive up to $3,000 per semester to cover educational expenses, supporting their academic journey while encouraging responsible scholarship and historic preservation.

Agility Grants, initiated by the National Council on Problem Gambling, aim to minimize gambling-related harm through funding nonprofit organizations for innovative prevention programs. These grants focus on addressing gaps in services and enhancing existing initiatives. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations, with priority given to projects targeting at-risk populations. The program emphasizes community impact and requires evaluations to assess effectiveness, fostering collaboration and awareness within diverse communities affected by gambling.

This initiative aims to enhance clinical and public health outcomes through innovative digital health interventions. It supports research on the development and effectiveness of tools designed for underserved settings, leveraging new technologies and analytics. By fostering collaborations between U.S. and low- and middle-income country researchers, the program emphasizes reciprocal innovation to tackle common health challenges, ultimately maximizing benefits for diverse populations.

The World Trade Center Health Program K01 Award supports early-career researchers dedicated to enhancing the health of those impacted by the September 11 attacks. This award grants up to three years of mentored research and career development, focusing on the physical and mental health effects of 9/11 exposures. It encourages studies that translate scientific findings into improved clinical care and public health practices, ultimately addressing emerging health concerns and improving long-term outcomes for affected populations.

The Preschool Development Grant Birth Through Five (PDG B-5) SMART Grant aims to enhance early care and education systems in the U.S. by supporting targeted investments in technology and data analytics. This initiative, led by the Administration for Children and Families, encourages states to improve program quality, family choice, and data-driven decision-making for children from birth to five years old. The funding is designed to create measurable outcomes and strengthen coordination within the mixed-delivery system.

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.

John L. & Alice M. Holden Education Endowment Fund

The Holden Endowment Fund was established in 1997 upon the transfer of three trusts administered by Merchants National Bank of Aurora in the name of the couple.

The resulting fund provides income for the educational needs of Aurora students.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

In just one application, our Common Scholarship Application provides students access to more than 150 scholarship opportunities with awards ranging from $1,000 to more than $5,000.

In 2025, San Diego Foundation awarded a record-breaking $5.5 million in scholarships to nearly 1,400 students.

William and Lucille Ash Scholarship

Be adult re-entry students (age 25 or older) or former foster youth who plan to enroll full-time at an accredited four-year university, community college or licensed career/technical school in the United States in fall (preference may be given to students attending a school in California).

The Alpha Delta Pi Foundation, a private funder, established the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Endowment to support local RMHC Chapters in the U.S. and Canada that lack adequate backing from Alpha Delta Pi collegiate or alumnae associations. Since 1979, over $22 million has been contributed to RMHC, with grants ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 available for houses, renovations, and family room expansions, fostering a strong philanthropic partnership.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts seeks to enrich the quality of life of the people of our region by:

• Encouraging philanthropy
• Developing a perpetual, flexible endowment
• Assessing and responding to emerging and changing needs
• Serving as a resource, catalyst, and coordinator for charitable activities
• Promoting efficiency in the management of charitable funds

The Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds.

• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. 
• Most scholarships are for students who live in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties. However, some are also available to students who live in Berkshire County and Hartford County in Connecticut.
• We offer scholarships to those who attend on either a full-time or part-time basis. 
• Any student who plans to enroll for the upcoming fall semester, in any year of college as an undergraduate or graduate student and who will attend an accredited post-secondary school in the United States may apply.
• Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

African American Achievement Fund

Supporting African American residents of Franklin, Hampden and Hampshire Counties who attend four-year colleges.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Jennifer L. Jackson Memorial Scholarship

Jennifer L. (Hanson) Jackson was a wonderful young woman on a mission to absorb as much knowledge as humanly possible. Graduating second in her class at Arthur Hill High School in 1995, she excelled in academics while also cultivating a deep interest in history and the arts. She was truly a “Star Wars” fan and trivia expert.

Even though Jennifer’s life ended much too early, her spirit lives on with her family. They choose to honor her memory through this scholarship. The successful candidates will be expected to possess high academic promise, good moral character and personal integrity.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

James R. and Anita Horne Jenkins Scholarship

For Anita and Jim Jenkins, giving back has become a way of life. “Both of us have received help from many others throughout our life’s journey,” the couple says. “We believe in giving back and paying it forward.” Among those who helped along the way was a University of Michigan Law School administrator who guided Anita and Jim through the financial aid process and approved an emergency grant when Jim first began working as a judicial clerk for an Illinois State Appellate Court judge and Anita was in her final year at University of Michigan Law School. They also give because they both grew up in households where their parents modeled outreach, care, and assistance to others. “We are thankful for our blessings and for all that others have done for us, and we take seriously our stewardship responsibility to support and give to others in every way that we can,” said Anita and Jim.

The Amy Heryford Ousley and James Heryford Ousley Educational Fund, established in 2005, provides scholarships to Klamath and Lake County students attending nonprofit colleges in the U.S. The fund, initially valued at $6.5 million, has awarded over $2.5 million in scholarships. Eligible students must have attended a Klamath County high school for four years, maintain a minimum GPA, and enroll as full-time students. Scholarships can reach up to $3,000 annually for up to five years.

The Bigglesworth Family Foundation's Legal Services Program supports innovative projects aimed at enhancing legal aid effectiveness. Originating post-2008 financial crisis, this initiative helps non-profits combat poverty through legal assistance, targeting both individual organizations and the broader sector. Grants include I&R projects for testing new models and sector support for organizations providing technical assistance. Eligibility is primarily for 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public entities, with specific limitations on budget sizes and project types.

About

We’re Here to Serve You

Partnering with Donors and Community Leaders to Make a Lasting Impact

Our mission is to strengthen our community through philanthropy.

Scholarships for High School and College Students

Lawrence Spraragen Memorial Scholarship 

Established to the child or grandchild of a current, active member if IBEW Local 236 or the child or grandchild of the management or staff of a signatory contractor to IBEW Local 236.

The Cat Enrichment Grant, offered by the Petfinder Foundation, provides funding ranging from $100 to $1000 to enhance the well-being of adoptable cats. Grants are awarded monthly until funds are depleted, supporting initiatives like interactive activities and safe outdoor experiences. This program aims to ensure that every cat remains happy and healthy while waiting for a forever home, ultimately increasing their chances of adoption.

The Military Heroes Program, funded by the Pentagon Federal Credit Union Foundation, offers high impact grants to support both active duty and retired service members in their transition to civilian life. This initiative focuses on harnessing military skills for community leadership, promoting educational programs that honor service, and providing resources for meaningful employment. Non-profit organizations can apply for funding to create programs that align with these priorities and positively impact veterans and their communities.

The Nancy Huntley Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, provides financial support for students pursuing higher education and professional certifications. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for diverse applicants, including those from marginalized communities and various academic backgrounds. With an emphasis on accessibility, it encourages individuals at different life stages to apply, fostering growth and development in Southern New Mexico.

The Twomey Family Scholarship, managed by The San Diego Foundation, supports current or former foster youth pursuing higher education. It aims to assist students attending community colleges, universities, or graduate schools in the U.S. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate financial need and community commitment. Since 1997, the Community Scholarship Program has awarded over $59.5 million to help students achieve their academic goals.

About The Community Foundation

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is a community-based social impact investor whose mission is to engage, invest, and lead—working toward a vision of community vibrancy with opportunity for all. Our team of experienced staff and dedicated trustees is committed to boldly leading and supporting transformational community investments. We channel charitable contributions from donors through nonprofit partners that are meeting current community needs and steward community resources responsibly to ensure greater capacity for the future.

Connor Arthur Lynskey Memorial Academic Award for Oneida/Herkimer Counties

This scholarship fund was created in memory of Connor Arthur Lynskey (18 years old) of Hinckley, New York. Connor aspired to be a rural physician and attended premedical school at Siena College. His dream was to practice medicine in an underserved area in order to help residents receive adequate health care.

Connor had an extraordinary way about himself for someone his age. He was God-inspired, loved everyone as he loved himself, and cared deeply about his family and friends. He had a mysterious ability to consistently make lemonade out of lemons. Everyone loved him when they met him. He was truly an inspiration to friends, family and clergy members alike, who now all suffer an enormous heart-wrenching void due to a careless and reckless drunk driver that took his life on August 11, 2018.

Coral Gables Community Foundation

Led by community leaders, the Coral Gables Community Foundation provides the philanthropic conduit to connect individuals and corporations looking to positively impact the success of the community. Now in its 33rd year, the Foundation has been at the forefront of the evolving needs of Coral Gables while effectively bringing together beneficiaries and benefactors to fund programs with the greatest impact and benefit to “The City Beautiful.”

Fain Scholarship

Royal Caribbean Scholarship offers tuition support for children of Royal Caribbean Corporation employees.

TERM: Scholarships are available for undergraduate studies of one to four years and graduate studies of up to two years.

PetSmart Charities' Adoption Prep Grants aim to support organizations that facilitate the adoption of homeless pets through in-store programs. Eligible partners must demonstrate a commitment to increasing adoptions, with grants reaching up to $75,000 in the U.S. and $40,000 in Canada. The funding can be utilized for vaccinations, spay/neuter services, staffing, and volunteer support. This initiative focuses on building sustainable adoption programs that break down barriers to pet adoption.

About The Community Foundation

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is a community-based social impact investor whose mission is to engage, invest, and lead—working toward a vision of community vibrancy with opportunity for all. Our team of experienced staff and dedicated trustees is committed to boldly leading and supporting transformational community investments. We channel charitable contributions from donors through nonprofit partners that are meeting current community needs and steward community resources responsibly to ensure greater capacity for the future.

Connor Arthur Lynskey Memorial Athletic/Character Award for Oneida/Herkimer Counties

This scholarship fund was created in memory of Connor Arthur Lynskey (18 years old) of Hinckley, New York. Connor aspired to be a rural physician and attended premedical school at Siena College. His dream was to practice medicine in an underserved area in order to help residents receive adequate health care.

Connor had an extraordinary way about himself for someone his age. He was God-inspired, loved everyone as he loved himself, and cared deeply about his family and friends. He had a mysterious ability to consistently make lemonade out of lemons. Everyone loved him when they met him. He was truly an inspiration to friends, family and clergy members alike, who now all suffer an enormous heart-wrenching void due to a careless and reckless drunk driver that took his life on August 11, 2018.

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.

The Boulé Foundation Scholarship

The Boule' Foundation in conjunction with the United Negro College Fund, will provide annual merit-based scholarships to entering college freshmen students (Fall 2026) attending four-year, accredited non-profit degree-granting colleges and universities of their choice.