Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Iowa

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.

Mary Virginia Hughes and Wesley C. Hughes Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund was created upon receipt of bequests from the estates of Mary Virginia Hughes and Wesley C. Hughes.

Their parents, Wayne and Sadie Hughes, owned and operated a farm in Newark.

Mary Hughes lived and worked on the family farm her entire life and was a member of the Millbrook United Methodist Church.

It was important to both Mary and Wesley to use their legacies to support the education of local students.

Scholarships from the fund are available to students graduating from a high school located in Kendall County for attendance at an accredited college or university.

These awards are reserved for students pursuing a major in the field of agriculture.

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.

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.

Kayla’s Hope Foundation Scholarship Fund

Kayla’s Hope Scholarship Fund was created by Hans, Ruthie and Hannah Lehmann of Saint Charles, IL to honor the life of their beautiful daughter and sister, Kayla Brooke Lehmann (April 5, 2003- April 7, 2018). Scholarships from the fund are awarded to graduates of St. Charles East High School, St. Charles North High School, Geneva High School and Batavia High School who will continue their education studying Music, Literature, psychiatry or psychology.   

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.

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.

Helen Schlicht McGeachy & Arthur C. Schlicht Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to students graduating from Aurora Central, Aurora Christian, East Aurora, Marmion Academy, Rosary or West Aurora High School.

Students entering the field of education, engineering, science, medicine or nursing are eligible to apply for these awards.

This fund was established by Arthur C. Schlicht (1936-2020) in memory of his mother Helen Schlicht McGeachy.

Helen McGeachy (1910-1994) was a graduate of East Aurora High School. An outstanding typist and secretary, she ultimately became secretary to the presidents of CA&E Railway and Walker Process Equipment of Aurora. Arthur Schlicht was vice-president/national sales manager at Walker Process Equipment. He earned a degree in chemical engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology.

This fund was created in 1994 and established as an endowment in 1995.

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.

The Richard "Obie" Oberweiser Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of a dedicated first responder who served as an EMT-I and volunteer firefighter. Established by his family, this scholarship aims to support students pursuing careers in emergency services. Applicants must be current or former graduates of Chelan or Douglas County with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Obie's commitment to healthcare and his passion for helping others continue to inspire future generations.

The Freshman Winner's Circle Scholarships, established by the Iowa Foundation for Agricultural Advancement, aim to support high school students graduating in Spring 2026 who are pursuing degrees in agriculture. These scholarships encourage participation in livestock projects and reward dedication to the agricultural field. Eligible students must enroll in a post-secondary agricultural program at a university or college starting Fall 2026, fostering future leaders in the agricultural industry.

The Pete and Mary Houck Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, honors the legacy of Pete and Mary Houck, long-time residents of Wenatchee Valley. This scholarship aims to support local students pursuing healthcare degrees, reflecting the couple's commitment to education and community. Eligible applicants must be residents of Chelan or Douglas County and plan to attend accredited programs in healthcare-related fields, ensuring a brighter future for the community.

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

Matt Solus Memorial Scholarship Fund

The scholarship supports high school or College of the Siskiyous students in Siskiyou County pursuing careers in fire science or law enforcement.

Matt Solus Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in memory of Matt Solus, the son of Fred & Elouise Solus of Yreka. Matt was a victim of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Although Matt was on a heart transplant list, he succumbed to the disease at the age of 22. Matt was a 1997 graduate of Yreka High School. The Solus Family were pioneers in Siskiyou County, having first moved there in 1850. Matt was a member of the Explorer Program with the Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Department and had a strong interest in law enforcement and fire science. The scholarship supports students in Siskiyou County pursuing careers in fire science or law enforcement.

The SBE Postdoctoral Research Fellowships, offered by the National Science Foundation (NSF), are designed to promote early-career independence by supporting research and training goals in the social, behavioral, and economic sciences. Applicants can choose between two tracks: Fundamental Research and Broadening Participation. This initiative addresses significant scientific questions, aligning with NSF's mission to enhance the scientific workforce and foster diversity in research fields.

The Cytokinetics Communications Grant Program provides five grants of $20,000 each annually to patient advocacy organizations focused on hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and heart failure. This initiative aims to enhance communication and outreach efforts, helping organizations expand their community engagement and awareness. By supporting crucial marketing initiatives, Cytokinetics fosters improved resources for advocacy groups, ensuring they can effectively address the needs of patients facing muscle performance challenges.

The Lovisa Card Catlin Art Scholarship, administered by the Erie Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Erie County high schools pursuing further education in art, architecture, or industrial art. In 2023, over $800,000 was awarded to more than 500 students for post-secondary education. Applicants must submit up to six examples of their artwork in JPEG format along with a completed application. This scholarship fosters artistic talent and encourages educational advancement in creative fields.

The Rev. Dr. Neil T. Eckstein Scholarship, established by family and friends, honors Neil's legacy of service and support for Christian higher education. It is available to full-time students at accredited colleges or ELCA seminaries. While the number and amount of scholarships may vary, maintaining eligibility is crucial, as failure to register full-time can result in loss of support. This scholarship reflects Neil's commitment to education and faith within the Grace Lutheran Church community.

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois will make a sustainable philanthropic impact in our community through visible leadership in connecting people who care with causes that matter.

Jean M. Brown Nursing Scholarship Fund 

Jean M. Brown graduated from the St. Francis School of Nursing in 1938. She went on to become Caterpillar’s first Industrial Nurse, a role she deeply valued. Inspired by her career, she wanted to help others pursue nursing as well.

Through her will, Ms. Brown established an endowed scholarship to support nursing students with financial need, with preference given to those pursuing a career in Occupational Nursing. The scholarship fund was created following her passing in October 2000.

The Gerald E. Robinson Memorial Scholarship, established in 2018 by the Community Foundation of NCW, honors the legacy of Gerald "Jerry" Robinson, a devoted animal lover. This scholarship supports college students pursuing veterinary or pre-veterinary programs, ensuring that Jerry's passion for animals continues through future generations. Eligible applicants include high school seniors from Okanogan, Ferry, or Lincoln Counties, with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and experience in animal care.

The AAUW Branch and State Affiliate Community Action Grants aim to empower AAUW branches and state organizations by providing up to $10,000 for innovative STEM programming targeted at girls in grades K-12. This initiative is designed to foster hands-on learning experiences, expand local impact, and showcase AAUW's commitment to gender equity in STEM. By collaborating with other organizations, AAUW seeks to build confidence and inspire the next generation of female STEM leaders.

Elias Eade Jr. Scholarship

This scholarship was created in honor and memory of Elias Eade Jr. by his children. Elias Eade Jr. was a lifetime resident of Olean who faithfully served God, his country, his family and the Olean community. Mr. Eade was a graduate of Olean High School and St. Bonaventure University and a member of the Olean business community for many years. Mr. Eade was an entrepreneur, leader and a man of great strength and integrity with an unprecedented work ethic. Candidates must be a graduating senior of a high school in Cattaraugus County with good academic standing and leadership skills and who plan to continue their education at a trade school or 2- or 4-year college or university. Candidates must answer an essay prompt of their choice from the three prompts provided by the fund advisors.

NIFA requests applications for grants under the RCDG program for FY 2025 to improve the economic condition of rural areas by helping nonprofit organizations who in turn provide technical assistance to start, expand, or improve cooperatives and mutually owned businesses in rural areas. This notice is being issued to allow applicants sufficient time to leverage financing and prepare and submit their applications. This notice identifies the goals and objectives, eligibility criteria, and application forms and instructions.

The purpose of the RCDG program is to enable nonprofit institutions to establish and operate centers for rural cooperative development (Center). The primary objective of the program is to improve the economic condition of rural areas by helping nonprofit organizations who in turn provide technical assistance to start, expand, or improve cooperatives and mutually owned businesses in rural areas.

The goals of a Center funded under this subsection shall be to facilitate the creation of jobs in rural areas through the development of new rural cooperatives, value added processing, and rural businesses.

The Mary H. Rice Scholarship Fund for Native Students, established in honor of the beloved community leader, supports eligible Native American students pursuing higher education. This scholarship, ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 per year for up to four years, is available to enrolled members of several Chippewa bands who have graduated high school or earned a GED. It reflects Mary H. Rice's commitment to education and community enrichment in the Chequamegon Bay area.

About FFAR

Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) advances food and agriculture science to develop tools, technologies and information that benefit farmers, consumers and the environment. We connect funders, researchers and farmers through public-private partnerships to support audacious research addressing the biggest food and agriculture challenges. Our unique public-private partnership model allows us to collaborate with diverse stakeholders to identify research opportunities that help farmers adapt to current challenges. 

H5N1 Risk to Swine Research Program

The Swine Health Information Center (SHIC) has partnered with the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR) and the Pork Checkoff to fund a $4 million research program to enhance prevention, preparedness, mitigation and response capabilities for H5N1 influenza in the U.S. swine herd.

As part of SHIC’s strategic mission to respond to emerging disease threats, SHIC monitors disease outbreaks nationally and internationally for their potential risks to the U.S. swine herd. H5N1 influenza is an emerging disease identified as a priority for U.S. pork industry prevention and preparedness due to the growing number of diverse mammalian species susceptible to infection and the unprecedented 2024 H5N1 outbreak impacting U.S. dairy herds.

Proposals should clearly state which of the below SHIC/FFAR/NPB H5N1 Risk to Swine Research Priorities will be addressed through the project. 

SHIC/FFAR/NPB H5N1 Risk to Swine Research Priorities

• Diagnostic Surveillance. 
• Introduction and Transmission Risks.
• Caretakers of Pigs.
• Biosecurity Practices
• Safety of Pork
• Mitigating Production Impact. 
• Business Continuity. 

The BJA FY25 Byrne State Crisis Intervention Formula Program aims to enhance state crisis intervention court proceedings and related initiatives, addressing critical public safety challenges. Funded by the US Department of Justice, this program supports mental health courts, drug courts, and extreme risk protection order programs, ensuring that only state governments can apply. The initiative is part of a broader effort to uphold civil rights and combat issues such as violent crime and human trafficking.

The Bausch Foundation, established by Bausch Health Companies Inc., supports global charitable initiatives focused on disease prevention, improving patient outcomes, and education related to its core businesses. The Foundation also aids disaster recovery efforts and assists underserved communities. Applications for funding are accepted continuously, with quarterly reviews, ensuring timely support for impactful projects. All submissions must be unsolicited, and decisions by the Advisory Committee are final, fostering a transparent giving process.

Molly Efron Scholarship

To support a Monroe County female high school senior planning to attend a four-year college or university to study science, technology, engineering, or math.

Number and Size of Awards

Two awards of $1,000 each; paid in one lump sum.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

The Cancer Care Specialists of Illinois Scholarship offers financial assistance for tuition to high school seniors and healthcare professionals in oncology/hematology within Central and Southern Illinois. The scholarship supports educational pursuits and professional development in these fields. Applications are accepted monthly, with a deadline for 2025 set for December 1st. Eligible candidates must maintain a GPA of 3.0 and reside in specific counties, ensuring support for local talent in healthcare.

The Thomas J Nelson Sr Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, honors the legacy of Tom Nelson, a dedicated community member. This scholarship is available to graduating seniors or past graduates from Chelan, Douglas, or Okanogan counties, who demonstrate financial need and plan to pursue higher education. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 for four-year programs or 2.5 for community colleges and trade schools, reflecting Tom's commitment to educational support.

The Vets Serving Vets Scholarship, established by North Central Washington Vets Serving Vets through the Community Foundation of NCW, supports residents of Chelan and Douglas counties who have been honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces. This scholarship is aimed at individuals pursuing full-time college education, helping them achieve their academic goals while honoring their service. Since its inception in 2017, it has played a vital role in assisting veterans in their educational journeys.

The Wenatchee Valley Street Rods Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, aims to support students pursuing education in automotive fields or health sciences at Wenatchee Valley College. Eligible applicants include high school seniors from Chelan County or Eastmont School District, as well as current students in medically related programs. Applicants must demonstrate good citizenship and criminal record eligibility. This scholarship can be renewed with reapplication.

The Richard M. Fisher Memorial Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports students pursuing careers in construction trades and vocational fields. Established in memory of Richard Fisher, a dedicated public works inspector, this scholarship is open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students. By providing vital financial assistance, the scholarship aims to empower local students to achieve their educational and career aspirations, fostering a brighter future for the community.

The Women’s Service League of North Central Washington Scholarship, established in 2013, aims to support female students from various high schools in the region. This scholarship prioritizes applicants who demonstrate community involvement, leadership skills, and a minimum GPA of 2.75. Special consideration is given to those who have faced significant challenges and to children or grandchildren of League members, fostering a commitment to volunteerism and community improvement.