Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Iowa

The Pateros Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of NCW, supports Pateros High School students in their pursuit of higher education. This fund encourages academic and financial growth for graduating seniors and previous graduates, including home-schooled students from the Pateros School District. Established in the 1990s, it emphasizes education as a key driver of community development. Renewal is available for prior recipients, allowing for a maximum of two awards.

The Ogburn Family Scholarship, provided by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports high school seniors from Quincy, Wenatchee, or Eastmont High Schools. Eligible students should plan to pursue education or a medical field, such as nursing or radiology, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. Preference is given to those attending Wenatchee Valley College or Central Washington University's teaching program. This scholarship promotes educational advancement within the community.

The Manhart/Gibbons Family Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, offers financial support for one graduating high school senior pursuing education in Music or Arts. Renewable for up to four years, this scholarship aims to enrich the quality of life in South Lake County by addressing community needs and supporting local talent. Preference is given to residents of Crown Point, ensuring that the funds directly benefit the local community.

The Polk County Tech Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides a $2,000 award for eligible high school seniors from select schools. This scholarship is renewable for a second year if a 2.5 GPA is maintained while enrolled in an accredited two-year or vocational program. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and submit an essay detailing their work experience and academic goals, ensuring support for those pursuing careers in technical fields.

The BJA FY 2026 National Center for Veterans Justice aims to enhance support for veterans in the criminal justice system. By providing specialized training and resources to law enforcement and service providers, the center will address critical gaps in veteran identification and coordination among agencies. This initiative seeks to improve outcomes for veterans experiencing issues like PTSD and military sexual trauma, ultimately strengthening public safety and ensuring effective responses to their unique needs.

The Field Initiated Projects Program aims to foster new research and develop solutions that enhance the inclusion and independence of individuals with disabilities. This initiative focuses on generating scientific knowledge and understanding critical issues faced by these populations, particularly those with significant support needs. With a total of 16 grants available over a 36-month period, this program encourages innovative approaches that support employment, living arrangements, and caregiver involvement.

The Capital Region Chamber Chuck Steiner Memorial Scholarship supports high school seniors from Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga, or Schenectady counties who demonstrate diverse interests and local community service. This scholarship has no academic requirements, making it accessible to a wide range of students. The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region has been empowering local communities since 1968, providing meaningful giving opportunities to enhance the quality of life for all.

The Student Ambassador Program by USITT offers a unique chance for student members to connect with international theatre professionals during the Annual Conference. Participants will engage in meaningful conversations and networking opportunities, including a special luncheon and the International Reception. This program aims to foster collaboration and mentorship among emerging designers and experienced industry leaders, enhancing professional growth within the performing arts community.

The Capital Region Chamber Unified Military Affairs Council Scholarship is designed for students whose parents serve at specific military installations in the Greater Capital Region. This scholarship aims to support high school and college students as they pursue their educational goals at technical schools or colleges. Established by The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, it reflects a commitment to empowering local students and enhancing the community by investing in the next generation's education.

The Scholarship America Dream Award, established by Scholarship America Inc, aims to eliminate financial barriers to higher education for students. This program supports U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and DACA recipients, who are at least 17 years old and pursuing their first degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. By partnering with various organizations, Scholarship America has provided over $5.7 billion in scholarships to millions, ensuring equitable access to education and fostering student success.

The Autism Centers of Excellence R01 aims to advance research in autism through collaborative networks, enhancing the past 23 years of progress. This initiative encourages innovative methods and technologies, inviting experts to consider applying for future funding opportunities. Although applications are not currently solicited, potential applicants are urged to form meaningful collaborations. This funding opportunity reflects a commitment to improving research in autism, leveraging diverse scientific expertise to address critical challenges in the field.

The Collaborative Centers in Children’s Environmental Health Research and Translation program aims to establish a national network of research centers focused on improving children's health through innovative research and public health strategies. By fostering collaboration within the children’s environmental health community, these centers will lead the way in translating scientific findings into actionable practices, ensuring a healthier future for children while addressing emerging environmental threats.

The MASOT Student Poster Awards, organized by the Society of Toxicology, invite graduate and undergraduate students to showcase their research at the annual meeting on November 5, 2025. Participants can win cash awards for their presentations. Eligible students must submit an extended abstract of up to 500 words and be members of MASOT. This event promotes scientific engagement and recognition for emerging toxicology scholars.

The OJJDP FY 2026 Community and Schools Youth Drug Prevention Program aims to combat youth substance use through comprehensive prevention strategies. This initiative invites applications from states, local governments, and nonprofit organizations to develop programs that educate and support youth in schools and community settings. By fostering collaboration with law enforcement and community coalitions, the program seeks to build capacity and implement effective interventions to protect the well-being of American youth.

The EMF/Fisher and Paykel High Flow Therapy Research aims to explore the use of high flow therapy as a first-line respiratory support in emergency departments. This research seeks to assess the number of patients with acute respiratory failure who may benefit from this therapy, understand the characteristics of EMS services, and identify patient outcomes. By analyzing these factors, the study intends to enhance patient care and inform effective health policies in emergency medicine.

The Bev Sellers Memorial Scholarship, established by Sweet Adelines International, aims to support young singers pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Vocal Pedagogy, Music Education, or Music Composition. Named after a cherished former president, this scholarship provides $5,000 USD to assist with tuition and fees. Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to barbershop music, maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA, and provide letters of reference. This initiative reflects the organization's dedication to fostering musical talent and education within the community.

The Myasthenia Gravis Network (MGNet) Scholar Program is designed to enhance research capabilities in myasthenia gravis through individualized training and mentorship. Funded by the Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network (RDCRN), this program supports scholars with up to $75,000 for salary and research costs, aiming to prepare them for independent careers in clinical and translational research. Eligible candidates include MDs, PhDs, and mid-career faculty committed to advancing MG research.

The NHLBI Catalyze program aims to transition basic science discoveries into effective treatments for diseases under the NHLBI mission. This initiative supports early-stage product definition, prototype design, and assay development for HLBS disorders. The R61 phase focuses on initial designs and experimental setups, while the R33 phase extends support for prototype testing and user feedback. Successful completion prepares products for in vivo testing, enhancing health and societal outcomes with NIH and other support.

The Petrone Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports non-traditional students pursuing nursing degrees. It aims to assist those advancing from a Nurse's Aide to an LPN or RN, or from LPN to RN, especially those with experience in Hospice Care. This scholarship provides essential financial aid to help eligible students achieve their educational goals in the nursing field, fostering a commitment to quality patient care.

The Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Program, funded by the US HHS: Administration for Community Living, aims to enhance the capabilities of individuals with advanced degrees in conducting high-quality research focused on health and function outcomes for people with disabilities. The program offers advanced training opportunities over a 36-month period, specifically targeting rehabilitation researchers, including those with disabilities, to foster multidisciplinary approaches in disability and rehabilitation research.

The Autism Centers of Excellence (ACE) initiative, spearheaded by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute for Child Health and Human Development along with several other prominent institutes, aims to encourage innovative research projects. While applications are not currently open, potential applicants are urged to prepare collaborative proposals that leverage cutting-edge technologies. This funding opportunity, utilizing the P50 Research Program Projects and Centers activity code, seeks to build upon over two decades of research advancements.

The BJA FY 2026 Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crimes Act Program aims to assist state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies in investigating and prosecuting civil rights offenses that resulted in death before December 31, 1979. This funding opportunity is part of the DOJ's broader commitment to enhance public safety, protect civil rights, and ensure justice for victims of violent crime. Applications are due on November 20, 2026.

The Howard and Beverly Murray Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, honors high-achieving students pursuing education in math and science. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors from Chelan or Douglas high schools with a minimum GPA of 3.4. This scholarship aims to support students who demonstrate a commitment to their academic pursuits in fields like mathematics, physics, and chemistry, ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed in further education.

The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), in partnership with the Sallie Mae Fund, offers the Completing the Dream Gap Scholarship to 170 students pursuing accredited post-secondary education. Each recipient will receive $2,500 to alleviate financial barriers that may hinder their academic progression. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain good academic standing, and possess leadership qualities. This initiative aims to support students as they navigate their educational journeys and prepare for successful futures.

The Big Country Athletic Hall of Fame Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports varsity athletes in the top 25% of their graduating class from specific counties. This scholarship honors outstanding high school athletes and coaches in the Abilene area, promoting academic and athletic excellence. Applicants must have participated in varsity sports during their junior and senior years and provide a recommendation from a varsity coach. This initiative aims to empower students to pursue their college education dreams.

The David G. & Jacqueline M. Braithwaite Scholarship supports students pursuing vocational or technical certificates and associate degrees in medically-related fields at any college in the U.S. Open to graduating seniors, current college students, and returning students, this renewable scholarship emphasizes the importance of education in achieving career aspirations. Financial need is not a consideration, allowing a diverse range of applicants to seek funding for their educational goals.

The Ham Family Scholarship Fund, established by Stephanie and CJ Ham along with Essentia Health and the NFL Foundation, supports diverse students in Duluth and Superior. Created to enhance BIPOC retention and graduation rates, it offers $1,000 annually for up to four years. Eligible applicants must identify as BIPOC, demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher, and engage in extracurricular activities. This scholarship aims to empower students in their pursuit of higher education.