Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Iowa

The National Writers Series Scholarships, offered by the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, support aspiring writers in 11th and 12th grades from Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties. Eligible applicants must submit an online application along with a manuscript in one of the following genres: Fiction, Nonfiction, Journalism, or Poetry. This initiative encourages local youth to showcase their creativity and talent in writing, fostering a love for literature and expression.

The Ben Paley Scholarship Fund, established in 2019 by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, honors the life of musician Ben Paley. It supports talented high school seniors from Berkshire County and northwest Litchfield County pursuing undergraduate music studies. This scholarship reflects Ben's passion for music and his positive outlook on life, aiming to inspire future generations of musicians to follow their dreams.

The Ferris Burtis Scholarship Fund, established in 2002 by two dedicated musicians, supports talented young musicians pursuing classical music careers. Funded by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, it aims to alleviate the financial burden of education, ensuring access for graduating high school seniors accepted into conservatories. This initiative reflects the foundation's mission to strengthen communities through philanthropy, fostering opportunities for economic mobility and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Berkshire Taconic region.

The Degree Pathway Scholarships, offered by the Nevada Women’s Fund, empower women in northern Nevada by supporting their pursuit of academic degrees such as associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctorate programs. These scholarships aim to strengthen communities and promote self-sufficiency through education. Applicants must be enrolled full-time in accredited institutions and meet specific eligibility criteria, including a minimum GPA of 3.0. Announcements for scholarship awards take place each April, fostering women's educational advancement.

The Big Field Fund (BFF) Project Grants provide $8,000 to support artist-led projects that promote innovative models in visual arts, assist under-resourced artists, or engage with vulnerable communities in Iowa. These grants are available for artists within 80 miles of Iowa City, aiming to enhance collaborative, experimental, and multidisciplinary artistic endeavors. BFF also offers grantees support through public celebrations, cohort gatherings, and promotional opportunities to amplify their project impact.

The Jacques Parker and Marie Deguard Scholarship, offered by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, supports high school seniors in the region pursuing higher education in visual arts or architecture. Scholarships are renewable for up to five years, covering costs for college, apprenticeships, or specialized courses. This initiative aims to promote economic mobility and provide opportunities for creativity, ensuring a lasting impact on students' lives in Berkshire, Columbia, northeast Dutchess, and northwest Litchfield counties.

The Express-News Charitable Foundation Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in Journalism or Communications. Open to high school seniors, current undergraduates, and graduate students from South Texas, it offers renewable funding for tuition, fees, and educational expenses. Applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA and be enrolled full-time in accredited institutions. Established in 1964, the fund aims to enhance educational opportunities and impact the community positively.

Spencer Educational Foundation Inc

The Spencer Educational Foundation was founded by the Rims Atlanta Chapter in 1979. To this day, Spencer remains the premier organization funding the education of tomorrow's risk management and insurance leaders.

The Spencer Educational Foundation: awards merit-based scholarships and grants to university students pursuing careers in risk management, insurance, and/or actuarial science; provides grants that create experiential learning opportunities both on and off campus; funds the development of risk management and insurance curricula in colleges and universities; supports Risk Managers by creating internship opportunities within the risk management function of their companies; and operates across the United States and Canada. 

Spencer Educational Foundation: Course Development Grants

Since 2014, Spencer has invested over $1.6 million in developing risk management and insurance (RMI) courses at close to 70 colleges and universities, exposing approximately 19,000 students to the RMI industry.

Our Course Development Grant program supports Introductory Risk Management and Insurance Course Development - for universities that have not previously offered any such instruction - as well as proposals for additional Course Curriculum Development and Program Development - for universities looking to develop a RMI program and/or expand existing RMI course offerings, with an emphasis on new and emerging areas in the industry.

The Indigenous Tomorrows Fund (ITF) is a youth-led initiative by Native Americans in Philanthropy aimed at supporting Indigenous youth leadership and community-driven solutions. In its 2025 pilot year, ITF will award up to 24 grants of $30,000 each to projects that enhance cultural continuity and sustainable futures. Priorities include promoting food justice, advancing community health, and strengthening cultural connections, particularly those addressing inequity and fostering long-term healing.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Virginia Scott Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Ludington Area School District, which established the Virginia Scott Memorial Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

This scholarship is presented to a graduating senior of Ludington High School with a cumulative grade point average of 2.8 or higher on a 4-point scale. The recipient must pursue a degree or certification at any two or four-year accredited college, university, or vocational/technical school.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Bethany Lutheran Church Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Bethany Lutheran Church Congregational Council, which established the Bethany Lutheran Church Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

In the 1870s, Danish immigrants to the Ludington area met to pursue a dream to worship God, provide Christian education, and support one another through fellowship. In 1878 they established the Danish Evangelical Lutheran Church, which later became Bethany Lutheran Church. Danish language worship services were held into the 1940s. A mural depicting Bethany's longest-serving pastor, The Reverend John Christensen, can be viewed from the parking lot west of the James Street Plaza. The congregation continued to worship and serve the community from its 1101 South Madison location until 2018 when, due to declining membership and financial support, it sold the church building to the Salvation Army and accepted the invitation of Grace Episcopal Church to share its building. Bethany held worship services there until March of 2019. As a memorial to all those who were a part of Bethany's ministry and in support of young people desiring post-high school education, Bethany's last act of service was establishing an endowed scholarship fund through the Community Foundation for Mason County.

The Sam J. Lucas Jr. Scholarship, administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation, offers multiple awards of $5,000 for employees and dependents of SCI Shared Resources, LLC. This one-time award is intended for students pursuing higher education in accredited institutions and requires a minimum GPA of 2.5. Recipients must be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours and submit enrollment information to facilitate the scholarship's direct payment to their college.

The Southwest Airlines® Community Scholarship, administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation, offers ten annual scholarships of up to $20,000 for students pursuing higher education in the airline industry. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a career interest in this field, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5, and be 24 or younger. This renewable scholarship supports students attending accredited institutions and is specifically for those seeking their first post-secondary degree. Dependents of Southwest Airlines employees are not eligible.

The Virginia Randolph Scholarship, established in 1963, honors the legacy of a pioneering educator in Henrico County. Managed by The Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond, this scholarship supports graduating high school seniors who demonstrate academic promise, community service, and financial need. It ensures a lasting tribute to Virginia Randolph’s commitment to education and helps empower the next generation of leaders in the region. Eligible students can receive tuition assistance for higher education pursuits.

The ISF Film Scholarship Program, initiated by the Islamic Scholarship Fund, supports Muslim students pursuing careers in film and media. With scholarships ranging from $3,000 to $5,000, the program aims to enhance Muslim representation in media and counter negative portrayals. Eligible applicants must be full-time students or professionals in relevant fields, maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0. This initiative not only fosters talent but also empowers voices in policy-making and public opinion.

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's Program for Adult Care Excellence (PACE) aims to enhance adult care for cystic fibrosis patients by recruiting and training physicians. With an increasing life expectancy for CF patients, the program addresses the need for specialized adult caregivers. Physicians can apply for funding up to $38,435 per year for three years, enabling them to develop expertise in adult CF care. This initiative supports both the medical community and the CF population significantly.

The Southwest Airlines® Founders Scholarship, administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation, offers financial support to dependents of Southwest Airlines employees pursuing their first post-secondary degree. Established in 1981, this renewable scholarship awards up to $20,000 over four years, contingent on meeting GPA and enrollment criteria. Eligible applicants must demonstrate community service and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5. This scholarship underscores the commitment to empowering educated communities.

Spencer Educational Foundation Inc

The Spencer Educational Foundation was founded by the Rims Atlanta Chapter in 1979. To this day, Spencer remains the premier organization funding the education of tomorrow's risk management and insurance leaders.

The Spencer Educational Foundation: awards merit-based scholarships and grants to university students pursuing careers in risk management, insurance, and/or actuarial science; provides grants that create experiential learning opportunities both on and off campus; funds the development of risk management and insurance curricula in colleges and universities; supports Risk Managers by creating internship opportunities within the risk management function of their companies; and operates across the United States and Canada. 

Spencer Educational Foundation: Spencer Success Stipend

The Spencer Success Stipend is a student support initiative created to help reduce financial barriers associated with internship opportunities in the risk management and insurance industry. The program provides funding to eligible students to assist with internship-related expenses that may otherwise make it difficult to participate in valuable experiential learning opportunities.

Through the Spencer Success Stipend, students may receive support for expenses such as housing, transportation, professional attire, technology, relocation costs, work-related meals, licensing or background check fees, and other direct internship participation costs. The goal of the program is to ensure students can fully engage in career-building experiences that strengthen their professional development, industry exposure, and long-term success.

Thanks to the generous support of Allied World and Munich Re, Spencer is proud to expand access to these opportunities and continue investing in the next generation of industry talent. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

The Jon Christopher Gauss, Jr. Wrestling Scholarship Fund, established by his parents, supports high school wrestlers pursuing post-secondary education at accredited institutions. This initiative, part of the Community Foundation of Washington County MD, aims to honor Jon's legacy while empowering students to achieve their educational goals. The scholarship enhances community engagement and provides vital financial assistance to promising athletes, ensuring that their dedication to wrestling translates into academic success.

This funding opportunity aims to enhance the development of medical products in rare diseases through innovative natural history studies. By generating high-quality data, the FDA seeks to bridge critical knowledge gaps and eliminate barriers in rare disease research. The initiative focuses on diseases with unmet needs, fostering significant impacts for those affected and facilitating the development of effective therapeutic solutions.

Mission Statement

Beckley Area Foundation exists to inspire and facilitate generous charitable giving that advances our community.

The Beckley Area Foundation is committed to enriching lives and strengthening communities across Southern West Virginia.

Scholarship

Supporting Student Success

The Beckley Area Foundation proudly manages scholarship funds established by individuals, businesses, and organizations dedicated to helping students pursue higher education. Many of these scholarships are tailored for specific schools, fields of study, or graduates from local high schools, while others offer broader opportunities. No matter the path, our scholarships aim to support students from our region as they work toward achieving their educational goals.

Donaghue Nursing Scholarship

Eligibility

One or more scholarships for Raleigh Co. high schools graduates who have achieved a satisfactory academic record and are pursuing a nursing career; Financial need shall be considered in selection.

The RFA-FD-23-001 funding opportunity aims to support clinical trials for orphan products targeting rare diseases. It focuses on evaluating the efficacy and safety of treatments to address unmet medical needs. By promoting innovative and collaborative trial designs, the FDA seeks to enhance the approval rates of effective therapies for rare conditions, ultimately benefiting patients and advancing drug development in this critical area.

Who We Are

Nevada Women’s Fund is a dedicated nonprofit organization committed to empowering women and strengthening communities across Nevada. Since our founding, we have worked to identify and fund critical initiatives that support women’s education, career development, and personal growth. Through scholarships, grants, and collaborative programs, we aim to break down barriers and create opportunities that foster self-sufficiency and achievement. Our mission is driven by a vision of a Nevada where women can thrive, lead, and make lasting contributions to their families, workplaces, and communities.

"The best way to empower women is to educate them.” ~ Michelle Obama

Scholarship History

Nevada Women's Fund scholarship program was established to empower women in Northern Nevada by supporting their educational pursuits. Since its inception, the program has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships to women across the region, helping them achieve their academic and career goals. Over the years, the program has expanded to include support for students in a variety of fields, with a focus on fostering economic self-sufficiency and professional advancement. Through this commitment, Nevada Women’s Fund continues to invest in the potential of women to drive positive change in their communities.

Workforce Ready Scholarships

These scholarships support individuals pursuing education and training pathways outside of a traditional academic degree program, such as:

• Certificate Programs
• Trade or Vocational Training
• Continuing Education or Professional Development
• Licensing

The New York Life Foundation Grief Reach Grants aim to enhance the capacity of nonprofit organizations serving grieving children. This program, offered in partnership with the National Alliance for Children's Grief, provides $15,000 grants over one year to support internal improvements like organizational development and strategic collaborations. The initiative focuses on strengthening infrastructure and sustainability, ensuring that children have the resources they need to cope with loss effectively.

The Rooted Pathways Program, initiated by First Peoples Fund, offers essential support to Native-led arts organizations, fostering their growth and stability. This funding empowers these organizations to thrive in their missions, providing unrestricted operating support and participation in a Learning Cohort. Eligible applicants include Native nonprofits and collectives with budgets under $500,000, and the program aims to uplift artists from U.S. federally recognized tribes. This initiative is part of the Wallace Foundation's broader commitment to enhancing well-being in the arts.

The D. Scott Cooper Nursing Foundation Scholarship, offered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors from high schools in Gregg, Rusk, or Smith Counties pursuing a nursing degree. This scholarship emphasizes financial need, requiring FAFSA documentation, and provides funding for one year. Established to foster educational pursuits, it reflects the Foundation's commitment to empowering young individuals to achieve their dreams in the field of nursing.

The Marc Chary Scholarship Program, established in 2025 by Mr. Marc Chary, aims to support African American high school seniors from Southern Beaufort and Jasper Counties in South Carolina. This scholarship is focused on those with financial need pursuing post-secondary education. With a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities, the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry continues to empower students to achieve their academic goals, fostering a thriving community through dedicated philanthropic efforts.