Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Iowa

This NOFO invites applications for innovative research aimed at developing and implementing interventions to prevent and treat substance use disorders (SUDs) and overdose. It encourages studies that can rapidly advance candidate solutions towards regulatory approval or clinical use, while also addressing co-morbid SUDs. The initiative supports a wide range of research including basic, clinical, translational, and implementation strategies to tackle drug misuse and related health issues, such as HIV/AIDS.

The General Surgery Resident Research Initiation Grant aims to engage General Surgery Residents in research related to colorectal diseases. With an annual funding of $20,000, this grant supports both clinical and laboratory-based research. It is geared towards residents or recent graduates of approved General Surgery programs, prioritizing those with aspirations in Colon and Rectal Surgery. This initiative fosters innovative research to enhance patient care and surgical techniques in the field.

The Horton PhD Research Grant supports up to three Ph.D. students annually in hydrology and related fields, funded by the Robert E. Horton Fund. It provides a maximum of $10,000 for research and travel, along with $500 for U.S. and Canadian applicants participating in AGU's annual meeting. Eligible students must be active AGU members, enrolled for the award's duration, and meet all application requirements. This grant promotes excellence in hydrological sciences.

The Dale Jr. Foundation is dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through targeted support in five key areas: Empowerment, Education, Wellness, Hunger, and Hope. By providing safe homes, educational resources, and healthy food, the foundation helps children overcome adversity and achieve their dreams. Their commitment extends to various charities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. The foundation emphasizes community support and holistic care, making a significant impact in the lives of many young people.

The Melanoma Research Resident and Fellowship Grant offers $10,000 to support early-career residents and fellows in conducting clinical or laboratory research focused on melanoma. This grant encourages innovative approaches to understanding prevention, detection, and treatment of melanoma, including special emphasis on ocular melanoma. Eligible candidates must have a qualified mentor and conduct research at a U.S. institution. This initiative aims to enhance the landscape of melanoma research and foster the next generation of researchers.

The Lasher-Bottorff Award, established by the American Association of Avian Pathologists, recognizes outstanding contributions to poultry health. It honors Dr. Hiram N. Lasher and Dr. C. A. Bottorff, pivotal figures in avian medicine. The award, valued at $1,000, is presented annually to a veterinarian who has made significant advancements in avian diagnostics or technical services over the past decade, promoting the health and productivity of poultry in North America.

Our Mission and Vision

The Wright Foundation for Sustainability and Innovation exists to foster innovative sustainability initiatives that make a positive impact on our planet. We want to find solutions to the complex challenges facing our world today.

Our vision is to facilitate positive action toward sustainable and innovative solutions in agricultural and environmental sectors that reduce carbon footprints and minimize risk for our communities.

Grant Programs

Wright Foundation for Sustainability and Innovation administers projects directly funded by donors that help reduce carbon footprints through carbon positive practices and emission offsetting. The foundation holds open application periods for projects in the contiguous United States, Puerto Rico and Canada that focus on reducing environmental risk through regenerative agricultural practices, habitat restoration and using natural energy sources to make our communities more sustainable.

Reducing Carbon Footprints

The foundation supports projects that work to reduce carbon footprints through the following initiatives.

Habitat Reclamation

• Restoration of habitats creates spaces for native flora and fauna and microorganisms to survive. Natural landscapes are integral to functioning ecosystems and increasing biodiversity, not to mention creating habitats for pollinator species like bees and butterflies that we so desperately need for agricultural success.

Regenerative Agriculture

• Regenerative agricultural practices have a far-reaching impact on the industry and our lives. We aim to reduce carbon emissions by fostering projects that innovate row crop sustainability and dairy, beef, pork and poultry operations to create practices that are sustainable for years to come.

Renewable Energy

• We care about carbon positive practices that harness renewable resources like solar, wind and biomass for improved efficiencies and overall reduction in use. Organic matter often sourced from agricultural production, garbage and tree pruning can be converted to energy in various ways, recycling it back into the agricultural operation that created it or fueling our communities.

Soil

• Soil sequestering practices have wide-reaching benefits like restoring and building organic matter in the soil and increasing biodiversity. It boosts water infiltration and retention and reduces erosion. Through practices like no till, applying organic matter like manure and biochar, and planting cover crops, we improve soil health as well as take CO2 out of the atmosphere.

Tree Planting

• Planting trees is a simple act that makes a huge impact in our urban, suburban and rural communities. They provide shade, release oxygen and improve air quality, improve soil quality and biodiversity, all of which contributes to offsetting carbon emissions.  

• Water
• We want to find ways to protect and restore the integrity of our water resources. We aim to fund projects focused on practices that create efficiencies and reduce the agricultural production impact on water quality and benefit our communities by conserving one of our most important natural resources. 

John Harsch Regenerative Agriculture Grant

Funding for projects adopting best regenerative agricultural management practices that impact one or several of these areas:

• Improve water quality
• Reduce soil erosion
• Increase soil health index
• Reduce synthetic fertilizer use
• Increase effective manure use as a fertilizer
• Increase biodiversity
• Reduce methane and nitrous oxide emissions

The Lifetime Contribution to the AAAAI and Allergy/Immunology Specialty Award honors individuals who have made significant and enduring contributions to the AAAAI and the allergy/immunology field. Awardees are recognized for exemplary service, leadership in professional organizations, impactful research, and mentorship of trainees. This prestigious accolade underscores the recipient's dedication to advancing the specialty and improving patient care, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and leadership in the field.

The W. D. Hagenstein Communicator Award honors an SAF member for their outstanding communication efforts in forestry. Recognizing innovative initiatives that enhance public understanding of forestry and natural resources, this award is presented at the SAF National Convention. It includes a $500 honorarium and up to $500 for travel expenses. Nominees must be SAF members and should not have received the Technology Transfer Award in the past five years. This award emphasizes the importance of effective communication in advancing forestry.

Wilson Ornithological Society

The earliest stages of the Wilson Ornithological Society’s development began with the formation of the “Young Ornithologists’ Association,” initiated in 1886 under the leadership of L. O. Pindar and J. B. Richards. They began as a corresponding group of naturalists interested in birds, with notes published in The Oölogist.

Soon after, the Society acquired a constitution and established itself in December 1888 as the Wilson Ornithological Chapter of the Agassiz Association. The fledgling group was named in honor of Alexander Wilson, considered the Father of American Ornithology. Its original purpose was “the study of birds, their nests, and eggs.”

Over the subsequent decades, the group—eventually becoming known as the Wilson Ornithological Club—published its proceedings and articles under a series of diverse titles, culminating in The Wilson Bulletin after 1894 and, most recently, The Wilson Journal of Ornithology. The Club adopted its Constitution and Bylaws in 1930 and became the Wilson Ornithological Society in 1955.

Early Professional Avian Conservation and Community Impact Award

The Early Professional Avian Conservation and Community Impact Award recognizes outstanding contributions by Wilson Ornithological Society (WOS) members working in applied, non-research careers that advance the conservation of birds and their habitats. This award also celebrates professionals whose work fosters a stronger and more inclusive conservation community, through management, education, communication, advocacy, or community engagement.

Purpose

This award highlights the diverse pathways through which people contribute to lasting ornithology and avian conservation beyond academic research. It honors those whose efforts build bridges between science, management, and the public; inspire action for birds; provide mentorship or leadership to build capacity; and promote equity, inclusion, and accessibility within the bird conservation community.

Examples of Qualifying Contributions

• Developing and implementing habitat management or conservation plans.
• Creating tools, educational materials, or outreach programs that promote bird conservation.
• Leading advocacy, communications, or storytelling that inspires conservation action.
• Building partnerships or community engagement initiatives that strengthen conservation impact.
• Advancing conservation policy or planning at local, regional, or national scales.

Award and Presentation

The recipient will be recognized at the 2026 Wilson Ornithological Society Annual Meeting, where they will be invited to share their work with attendees. The award includes:

• A monetary honorarium
• An original piece of artwork from an early-career artist
• Coverage of meeting registration, travel, lodging, and per diem expenses

The Loretta Morris Memorial Grants support individuals with cystic fibrosis in California who wish to engage in physical activities such as swimming, horseback riding, dance, or golf. Established in memory of Loretta Morris, this fund aims to help recipients enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle. Applications are welcomed from both children and adults, promoting inclusivity and well-being within the CF community. Note that certain items, like memberships or accessories, are not eligible for funding.

The Kadel & Gerhardt Internships, funded by the Point Foundation, aim to enhance the representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in HIV/AIDS research and advocacy. These internships support academically talented students pursuing unpaid opportunities in the summer of 2025, addressing the critical need for culturally competent care within the community. By investing in future leaders, the program seeks to combat the stigma surrounding HIV and increase access to essential services for those affected.

The AISES Stellantis Scholarship aims to enhance the representation of Indigenous peoples in STEM fields. Funded by Stellantis, this scholarship offers $20,000 for full-time students enrolled in colleges with Mopar Career Automotive Programs. Eligible candidates must be current AISES members and either enrolled citizens or descendants of recognized Indigenous groups. The program not only supports education but also fosters a diverse and inclusive workforce within the automotive industry.

The Cameron Award supports field research on native rodents across the Americas, encouraging studies in ecology, behavior, physiology, and conservation. It is available to students in MS or PhD programs and postdoctoral researchers in the U.S. Applicants must be ASM members. Funds cover supplies, equipment, and travel, but not salaries or meeting travel. The award aims to enhance understanding of rodent ecology and their impact on ecosystems.

The Outstanding Forestry Journalism Award recognizes exceptional journalistic work that enhances public understanding of forestry and natural resources. Open to all journalists, it encourages submissions in various formats, including articles, documentaries, and ongoing coverage. The award offers a $500 honorarium, complimentary SAF convention registration, and up to $500 for travel expenses. This initiative highlights the crucial role of effective communication in promoting sustainable forestry practices and educating the public about environmental issues.

The Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative supports outdoor enthusiasts and promotes responsible use of off-highway vehicles (OHVs). Its mission includes educating the public on land use and wildlife conservation while protecting access to public lands. Applications are accepted quarterly from nonprofit organizations and community groups focused on land stewardship and access improvements, ensuring a safe and sustainable outdoor experience for all.

The AISES Indian Motorcycle Academic Scholarship offers $5,000 annually to support Native students pursuing degrees in STEM fields. Sponsored by the American Indian Science and Engineering Society, this scholarship aims to empower Indigenous students and enhance diversity in STEM. Eligible applicants must be current AISES members, full-time students, and enrolled citizens or descendants of recognized Native tribes. This scholarship not only provides financial assistance but also fosters community and innovation within the STEM landscape.

The BIE Internship Funding for STEM Students, offered by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, provides financial assistance to Native students for approved internships related to STEM. This initiative helps cover costs such as travel, living expenses, and daily commuting, facilitating valuable professional experiences. By supporting these students, the program aims to enhance Native representation in STEM fields and empower future leaders within their communities, contributing positively to society's growth and diversity.

The Lundbeck US Charitable Fund focuses on enhancing brain health through impactful donations. Established to support organizations dedicated to brain health, it addresses pressing needs by funding innovative strategies and community collaborations, particularly for at-risk populations. The Fund aims to transform lives and improve mental health care, with a commitment to responsible giving. With over 20 organizations supported in 2023, it drives meaningful change in communities affected by brain disorders.

The Richard King Mellon Foundation invites innovative proposals that align with their 2021-2030 Strategic Plan, aiming to invest over $1.2 billion to enhance opportunities in southwestern Pennsylvania. Their funding focuses on conservation, economic development, economic mobility, health and well-being, organizational effectiveness, and social-impact investments. The General Application offers flexibility without deadlines, allowing for a variety of support types, including project-specific and general operating funding, aimed at enriching community vitality and environmental stewardship.

Greater Toledo Community Foundation

Greater Toledo Community Foundation transforms generosity into lasting impact. With over $510 million in assets across 1,000+ funds, we've granted more than $370 million to strengthen education, health, arts, and social services throughout our region.

We connect donors with causes they care about while bringing together leaders, organizations, and resources to tackle our community's biggest challenges. What began with Walter E. Terhune's vision in the 1920s continues today as we help individuals, families, and businesses create positive change that will benefit our region for generations.

Ottawa County Community Foundation Grants

The Ottawa County Community Foundation, Inc. (OCCF) is a public charitable organization created by the citizens of Ottawa County to enrich the quality of life for individuals and families in Ottawa County. Grants from unrestricted funds support a variety of programs in the fields of education, health and social services, economic development, natural resources and the arts.

The Ralph J. Torraco Food Bank/Shelter Fund Grant, offered by the UNICO Foundation Inc., aims to combat hunger and provide shelter for the homeless and indigent. Eligible applicants include registered non-profit food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters in 13 U.S. states. The grant focuses on direct services, ensuring that all funds are used for food and shelter, not for operating expenses, thereby promoting effective community support for vulnerable populations.

The Hawk Watch Fund Grant, established by the Hawk Migration Association of North America (HMANA), supports hawk watch sites in North America facing funding challenges. Grants of up to $1000 are available for volunteer-based projects that align with HMANA's mission of promoting raptor conservation and migration study. Funding is sourced from HMANA's annual Raptorthon and donations. This initiative aims to enhance educational resources, equipment acquisition, and operational support for hawk watch groups.

The David Kelby Johnson Memorial Foundation offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on sight preservation, children's services, and environmental conservation, primarily in Utah. Established in memory of David Kelby Johnson, who tragically lost his life at a young age, the foundation aims to honor his legacy by supporting impactful charitable initiatives. Grants range from $5,000 to $100,000, with a commitment to improving communities both locally and globally.

The NIDA Mentored Clinical Scientist Development Program Award aims to foster research independence in clinician scientists by providing intensive supervised research training and career development in the field of substance use and substance use disorder. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization, ensuring timely submission for this essential funding opportunity.

The Mayer and Morris Kaplan Foundation Environment Grant aims to support initiatives that combat climate change, prioritizing efforts to reduce fossil fuel consumption and enhance climate education for young adults. The foundation emphasizes innovative solutions and partnerships to address both immediate and long-term environmental challenges. Areas of focus include climate and clean energy policy, as well as providing scientifically accurate climate change education. By leveraging data and research, the foundation seeks to empower organizations dedicated to creating impactful change.

The MMUF Dissertation Grant, funded by the Mellon Foundation, supports doctoral candidates who are alumni of the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship. This grant aids scholars in completing their dissertations, ensuring diverse perspectives are represented in academia. With up to $30,000 for a 12-month period, the program encourages candidates to secure additional funding from their institutions. The initiative aims to bolster access to education and foster understanding among varied backgrounds, ultimately enhancing the academic landscape.