Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Iowa

The Translational Transplantation Tolerance Cooperative Study Group, supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, aims to advance transplant tolerance strategies that promote long-term graft survival without lifelong immunosuppression. This initiative focuses on developing, optimizing, and evaluating methods to induce immune tolerance in allogeneic transplants through collaborative efforts across multiple centers, utilizing translationally relevant models to ensure effective outcomes.

The Stephen Schwartz Musical Theatre Teacher of the Year Award, presented by The ASCAP Foundation and the Educational Theatre Association, recognizes outstanding middle and high school musical theatre teachers. Awarded annually, the recipient, selected by a panel of experts, will receive a $5,000 prize and be honored at the EdTA Theatre Education Conference in Minneapolis, MN. This prestigious award highlights the significant impact of dedicated educators in shaping the future of musical theatre.

The National MS Society offers annual Research Grants for investigator-initiated proposals addressing key research questions from the Pathways to MS Cures Roadmap. These grants support diverse studies, including clinical and nonclinical research aimed at stopping MS disease activity, restoring function, and preventing new cases. Eligible applicants must hold an M.D. or Ph.D. and demonstrate relevance to the Society's research priorities. This funding opportunity promotes collaboration and focuses on underserved MS populations.

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is advancing organ transplantation outcomes through the Clinical Trials in Organ Transplantation in Children and Adults (CTOT-CA) program. This initiative supports multicenter clinical trials and mechanistic studies related to heart, lung, kidney, liver, and intestinal transplants, as well as non-hematopoietic cellular transplantation. By exploring immune mechanisms and innovative therapies, the program aims to enhance the success and efficacy of organ transplantation.

The Morton Gould Young Composer Awards, presented by The ASCAP Foundation, support emerging composers under 30 by recognizing their original concert music. This prestigious award honors Morton Gould's legacy and offers monetary prizes to recipients. Eligible entrants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, aged at least 13, and can submit one original work. Previous winners of three or more awards are ineligible, ensuring a fair opportunity for new talents.

The William L. and Diane C. Wilson Scholarship for Karst Science, established in 2002, honors the legacy of William L. Wilson and aims to support innovative karst scientists. Funded by Diane C. Wilson, it provides a one-time award of $2,500 and recognition at the KWI spring banquet. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in a master's program focused on karst science and its subfields, while PhD students are excluded. This scholarship fosters the growth of new talent in karst research.

The Jean Theodore Lacordaire Prize, awarded by the Coleopterists Society, recognizes exceptional doctoral research in beetle biology and systematics. This annual prize is open to nominations for the best published paper derived from Ph.D. dissertations, focusing on Coleoptera. Eligible works must be published in widely available journals or books in any language using the Latin alphabet. Nominations are submitted by the scientific community, ensuring a prestigious selection process.

About

What is FOXG1 Syndrome?

FOXG1 syndrome is a rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a mutation in the FOXG1 gene. FOXG1 gene is one of the first and most important genes for early brain development and when impaired, causes developmental disabilities as well as medical complexities, including epilepsy.

Every child born with FOXG1 syndrome is unique as FOXG1 manifests as a spectrum where symptoms and severity vary between individuals. Our patient data shows characteristics of children with FOXG1 syndrome include: non-speaking, non-ambulatory, experience seizures, feeding problems, cortical vision impairment, movement disorders, and developmental delays. Less-severely-affected FOXG1 children often present with (ASD) Autism Spectrum Disorder as FOXG1 is an autism related gene. FOXG1 syndrome is found equally among both females and males and is geographically more prevalent where diagnostic testing is more advanced. 

Our Story & Mission

When our children were diagnosed with FOXG1 syndrome, we were told there was nothing we could do. No treatments, no concerted research underway, no roadmap. Just a devastating diagnosis for a disorder few had ever heard of.

But we refused to accept that. 

Research Assets & Grants

FOXG1 Scientific Research Project Grants

The FOXG1 Research Foundation is providing grants to scientists to deepen the understanding of the biology of FOXG1 with the goal of identifying innovative therapeutic strategies and finding a cure.

For the next few years, these are the strategic focus areas:

• Experiments designed to understand when, where, and levels of FOXG1 needed for normal brain development in mice
• Experiments designed to understand the biophysical properties of FOXG1 mutations
• Experiments designed to gain insights into the molecular and cell biological pathways regulated by FOXG1  

Retina Research Foundation

Across the nation, there were only a handful of voluntary groups with the will and the means to tackle retinal disdorders. Retina Research Foundation, established in 1969, was one of those organizations. By the 1980s, RRF had become a voice for retina research in an effort to reduce the incidence of retinal disease, which was fast becoming the leading cause of blindness in developing countries.

Undaunted, the Foundation steadily raised funds each year for vision scientists who were nationally recognized for their work in retina research. Government funding for eye research increased dramatically, and the field of retina research matured. As this body of knowledge grew, RRF programs were expanded to include major awards that recognize established retina scientists and contribute to their ongoing research. The Foundation also developed scientific exchange programs to disseminate knowledge of the dramatic advances that were being made in the laboratory.

RRF Pilot Study Grants

The mission of the Retina Research Foundation is to reduce retinal blindness worldwide by funding programs in research and education. As a public charity, RRF raises funds from the private sector and the investment of its endowment funds.

RRF is currently welcoming pilot study grant applications for the 2027 grant period. Each grant application must be signed by the principal investigator and either their Department Chair or Dean of Research.

The Civic Engagement Microgrant Grant Program, funded by Research!America, aims to enhance public engagement skills among early-career scientists. By providing financial support for innovative projects, this initiative encourages collaborations across various STEM disciplines. Grantees will develop essential skills in communication and policy-making to strengthen community ties and promote science as a national priority. This program addresses the critical need for scientists to connect with local communities and policymakers to ensure the relevance and impact of scientific research.

Background

Natan’s Confronting Poverty committee requests proposals from organizations that are addressing poverty in their communities across the United States. This grant area is primarily focused on new models of direct services focused on Jewish poverty.

We understand that most social service organizations serve a diverse audience, but we anticipate that most of the funding will go towards organizations that have a special and particular interest in serving the Jewish community, in addition to other audiences.

We are particularly interested in;

• New models of direct services within existing agencies that address food insecurity, housing, job training, health and older adult care;
• New models of education, communications and awareness building around poverty
• New organizations and start ups that bring a fresh lens and voice to these matters

Natan seeks to sponsor or catalyze the creation of innovative, grassroots, and scalable strategies that address poverty and the factors that contribute to these challenges. This RFP targets both early-stage organizations and early-stage projects within larger institutions.

Natan anticipates awarding up to five grants of $30,000 - $35,000. The selected programs may be eligible for second year funding. Grant recipients will have the opportunity to work with a consultant to develop measures of success and evaluation plans.

Natan’s Confronting Poverty initiative is in partnership with The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation with the goal of surfacing new ideas in the Jewish anti-poverty space. Consideration will be given to applicants that incorporate voices of those with lived experience in their program development.

The Bayer Fund Health & Wellness Grant Program aims to support organizations that provide education and resources for patients and caregivers facing cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Grants focus on assisting communities, particularly the African American population, in managing these health issues. Funding covers educational services, disease awareness, and access to care, with all activities to commence post-funding decisions. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) status and operate within 55 miles of Bayer sites.

The Emergency Department Alternatives to Opioids Program aims to implement practices that offer alternatives to opioid treatments in hospitals. This initiative focuses on reducing the harmful consequences of opioid use for pain management, promoting safer treatment options, and minimizing the risk of opioid misuse and overdose. Specifically, it targets healthcare organizations to enhance their pain care strategies, ultimately contributing to better patient safety and health outcomes.

American Psychiatric Association Foundation

There is no health without mental health. The APA Foundation is working in your community to provide the support and resources we all need to prioritize mental wellbeing where you live, learn, work, worship, and play.

Backed by the medical expertise of the APA and industry-leading strategic partners, we administer community-changing programs, public education campaigns, grants, and awards aimed at increasing mental health literacy, connecting individuals to needed care, and shifting attitudes toward mental health.

Our Mission is to promote the mental health and well-being of individuals and communities. Our Vision is a mentally healthy nation for all – where we live, learn, work, worship, and play.

Diversity Leadership Fellowship

The Diversity Leadership Fellowship identifies and motivates minority psychiatry residents or those interested in minority and vulnerable populations to become well equipped to teach, administer, and provide culturally competent, evidence based mental health and substance abuse services to diverse minority groups and at-risk populations. These populations include—but are not limited to—American Indians/Native Alaskans, Asian Americans/Native Hawaiians/Native Pacific Islanders, Blacks/African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, LGBTQ, and religious minorities. Program Benefits:

• Sponsorship to attend a minimum of four APA meetings:
  • Two APA Annual Meetings
  • Two Fellowship Forums
• Develop leadership skills in the field of psychiatry and advance understanding of the life experiences of racial ethnic minority communities
• Gain an understanding of APA/APAF Governance through observation and service on an APA Council, Committee, or APAF initiative
• Have the opportunity to sit on the APAF Board of Directors as a non-voting member (one Diversity Leadership fellow allowed)
• Cultivate a professional network with psychiatrists interested in minority mental health and services through exclusive events and engagements with APA leaders. Establish relationships and peer-mentorship with a diverse group of resident fellows with similar career interests and goals

The Annual Community Grant by the Greater Jefferson County Foundation supports educational, cultural, and civic initiatives in Jefferson County, Iowa. With over $1.79 million awarded, grants assist local non-profits with capital improvements and operational costs. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)3 or government units, focusing on projects that benefit children, families, and community development. However, funding excludes past projects, individuals, and religious purposes. This initiative fosters community betterment and engagement across various sectors.

The Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation, established in 1988, supports photography programs at museums and public institutions. It promotes photography's recognition alongside other art forms and contributes to HIV/AIDS medical research. Notably, it has funded major galleries and initiatives, donating significant collections to renowned museums. The Foundation aids curators in developing photography exhibitions and provides financial support for acquisitions, exhibitions, and publications, ensuring Mapplethorpe's artistic legacy endures.

The Guy Bradley Award, established in 1988 by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), honors individuals who have made significant contributions to wildlife law enforcement. Named after the first wildlife officer killed in the line of duty, this award recognizes the vital role of law enforcement agents in wildlife conservation. Eligible candidates include current and retired personnel from state and federal agencies who have demonstrated exemplary dedication to protecting wildlife and advancing enforcement goals.

The National Fish Passage Program (NFPP) offers technical and financial assistance to enhance fish and aquatic organism passage while restoring connectivity to benefit federal trust resources. By promoting fish populations and ecosystem resiliency, the program supports infrastructure modernization through projects like dam removals and culvert replacements. Coordinated by the Fish and Wildlife Service across 51 offices, NFPP emphasizes collaboration with partners to ensure projects align with strategic goals and enhance biodiversity.

The Never Lose Hoop Fund, established by JC and Joni Hulls, provides grants to support families affected by cancer. The fund aims to enhance the quality of life for children and their families through shared experiences, such as family camps and outdoor activities. Grants are available for those currently battling cancer or who have lost an immediate family member to cancer within the last two years. This initiative helps families create lasting memories and find joy during difficult times.

About us

SIR Foundation is a scientific foundation dedicated to fostering research in interventional radiology for the purposes of advancing scientific knowledge, increasing the number of skilled investigators, and developing innovative therapies that lead to improved patient care and quality of life. The foundation is committed to fostering the development and enhancement of innovative, minimally invasive, image-guided therapies from inception to mature clinical application and to conduct educational programs in the service of its mission.

Excellence in Innovation Award

Fund compelling, novel ideas that lead to improved health outcomes in IR.

About

Interventional radiologists create and introduce novel, minimally invasive procedures and devices that help solve some of our toughest medical challenges. To continue this rich history of innovation in IR, the purpose of this award is to fund compelling, novel ideas that lead to improved health outcomes in IR.

Innovation, for this purpose, is broadly defined as any use of emerging methods, new devices, new procedures or new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and nanotechnology, that display an exceptional degree of potential for transforming and advancing the specialty of interventional radiology.

The Annual Meeting Research Award Committee selects one recipient for this award each year.

The recipient will receive:

• Complimentary annual meeting registration
• Travel stipend up to $1,000
• The opportunity to present their research as well as meet peers, network with senior scientists and participate in learning opportunities at the SIR Annual Scientific Meeting
• Recognition during the SIR Annual Scientific Meeting

About Pfizer Grants

Pfizer supports the global healthcare community’s independent initiatives (e.g., research, quality improvement or education) to improve patient outcomes in areas of unmet medical need that are aligned with Pfizer’s medical and/or scientific strategies.

Interventional Research Studies of Brentuximab Vedotin-Based Novel Combinations in AITL and PTCL-NOS

This competitive program is designed to support interventional InvestigatorSponsored Research aimed at generatin clinical evidence for brentuximab vedotin in novel combination approaches in angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL) and peripheral T-cell lymphoma–not otherwise specified (PTCL-NOS).

Project Types and Area of Interest

Studies considered for Pfizer support should address key clinical and scientific gaps in the use of brentuximab vedotin in AITL and PTCL-NOS irrrespective of CD30 expression, with a focus on evaluating the safety and efficacy of novel brentuximab vedotin–based combinations with therapies available for PTCL treatment that are supported by a clear scientific rationale grounded in mechanism of action and/or disease biology.

Better Food Policy Fund 

Since its inception, the Better Food Policy Fund has set its strategic direction in a participatory fashion. We are intentionally building capacity for engagement to ensure the Fund aligns with the needs of food policy council stakeholders.   

Thus far, the Fund has engaged 300+ food policy council stakeholders to help co-develop the Fund. We are immensely grateful for the individuals who helped shape the initial direction of this fund. We view this growing stakeholder audience as the people to whom the Fund’s governing body, the Independent Advisory Committee, is ultimately accountable.

Grantmaking

The Better Food Policy Fund invests in US-based food policy councils, empowering community and government collaboration for progressive food policy. We utilize participatory processes to enhance equity and redistribute power in the funding landscape. We seek to celebrate and uplift the work of food policy councils, and believe every food policy council is worthy of financial support.

We define “food policy councils” as councils, networks, coalitions, or other groups working across boundaries at the tribal, municipal, county, state, or regional level.  

We support actions aimed at ensuring an enabling environment for policy change, such as: 

• increasing levels of inclusive and equitable stakeholder engagement in public processes
• engaging systems thinking when tackling complex food system challenges
• facilitating collaboration with and across local government agencies and departments 
• developing or revising local policies and plans  

We define “better food policy” as practices, procedures, ordinances, laws, etc. of governing institutions which strengthen community-based food systems.

We define “civic collaboration” as people joining together at the intersection of community and government to address public issues.

The Trails Capacity Program, previously known as the Trail Fund Grant, aims to enhance community capacity for trail maintenance, research, and stewardship training across the nation. The program focuses on supporting non-Forest Service Federal lands, as well as state and local areas, fostering inclusivity and improved user behavior. By collaborating with diverse trail partners, it seeks to ensure effective stewardship and sustainable trail management, ultimately promoting public access and enjoyment of America's natural landscapes.

The A Woman’s Work Founders Scholarship, provided by the Longmont Community Foundation, supports women in the Longmont and St. Vrain Valley area who demonstrate financial need and a commitment to their education. With awards ranging from $500 to $5,000, this scholarship prioritizes applicants who have shown resilience in overcoming challenges. By empowering women, the scholarship aims to foster individual achievement and strengthen the community, creating pathways to sustainable futures.

The Braly Trade / Vocational Scholarship, offered by the Longmont Community Foundation, supports individuals over 21 pursuing a trade or vocational education. This one-time award of $5,000 is allocated for tuition, fees, books, and other educational expenses. The scholarship honors the Braly family’s legacy in trades and aims to empower recipients to positively impact their communities. Applicants must be high school graduates or hold a GED and plan to attend an accredited institution in the U.S.

Casey's Cash for Classrooms Grants support K-12 public and nonprofit private schools through funding for physical improvements, material needs, teacher support, and community engagement. In 2025, $900,000 was awarded across 80 grants, allowing schools to enhance their learning environments. With a commitment to community engagement, Casey's has donated $15 million since 2019, emphasizing their dedication to making life better for communities and guests. Grants range from $3,000 to $50,000, with funds required to be used within 12 months.

The Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN) aims to enhance diagnostic excellence through multiple clinical Networks of Diagnostic Excellence (NODEs). These NODEs will operate as regional networks, leveraging partnerships with various healthcare facilities to provide participant-centered evaluations for complex conditions. They will also engage in research and training to improve diagnostic tools and strategies. This initiative encourages collaboration and aims to improve the overall experience and access for participants in need of specialized care.