Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Kansas

The FY26 Bone Marrow Failure Research Program's Resource Development Award aims to create a multiomic atlas from human bone marrow failure samples. This resource will be open-access, providing essential data for researchers and clinicians to enhance their understanding of bone marrow failure diseases. A comprehensive Data Resource Sharing Plan is required to ensure timely availability of the developed resource, fostering collaboration within the scientific community.

The FY26 Parkinson’s Research Program Investigator-Initiated Research Award supports innovative, multidisciplinary research projects aimed at advancing the understanding and treatment of Parkinson’s disease. The award encourages collaboration among multiple principal investigators, requiring preliminary data and allowing clinical trials to enhance research outcomes. This initiative is vital for fostering impactful discoveries within the four specified focus areas of the program, ultimately improving patient care and management.

The Music and Entertainment Industry Educators Association (MEIEA) offers Student Enrichment Grants to support educational activities in the music and entertainment fields. Grants of up to $1,000 are available for accredited institutions that are MEIEA members. Eligible projects include workshops, guest speakers, and community service initiatives. Special consideration is given to first-time applicants and projects promoting diversity and inclusion, aiming to enrich student experiences and foster greater engagement within the industry.

The FY26 Parkinson’s Research Program (PRP) Early Investigator Research Award supports early-career researchers in Parkinson’s disease (PD) research. It offers two funding levels: Level 1 for fellows requiring a Mentor and Level 2 for independent investigators. The PI must show potential in PD research, with Level 1 emphasizing mentorship and Level 2 needing preliminary data. Research must align with one of the four FY26 PRP Focus Areas, excluding clinical trials.

The DOW Combat Readiness – Medical Research Program's FY26 Translational Research Award supports innovative research aimed at improving trauma care outcomes. This program emphasizes hypothesis-driven studies that can transition promising technologies into practical solutions for enhancing casualty survivability. Applicants must provide preliminary data and utilize validated animal models, with a focus on projects that meet a minimum technology readiness level of 4, ensuring a mature translational research effort.

The APSF/FAER Mentored Research Training Grant aims to enhance anesthesia patient safety by funding promising anesthesiologists who are within 10 years of their first faculty appointment. This two-year grant, totaling $300,000, supports the development of independent researchers focused on perioperative safety. Recipients must allocate 60% of their time to research and career development. With this initiative, the APSF and FAER seek to cultivate the next generation of safety scientists in anesthesia.

The OVC FY 2026 Preventing Trafficking of Girls program aims to provide crucial prevention and early intervention services for girls at risk of human trafficking. This initiative, backed by the US DOJ's Office of Justice Programs, supports efforts to protect vulnerable populations, including young women up to age 25, from both sex and labor trafficking. Applicants are encouraged to outline their strategies to effectively serve survivors and address diverse needs in their proposals.

The FY26 Breast Cancer Research Program's Clinical Research Extension Award aims to enhance breast cancer clinical studies by extending data collection and follow-up. This funding mechanism emphasizes the importance of patient participation and addresses challenges from early trial terminations. Notably, applications must include two breast cancer consumer advocates and can feature either a single Principal Investigator or a duo. This initiative seeks to improve outcomes through comprehensive data analysis and patient engagement.

The FY26 Breast Cancer Research Program's Breakthrough Award supports transformative research aimed at significant advancements in breast cancer treatment. This award offers various funding levels, including Population Science Studies, allowing for innovative approaches that can lead to clinical applications. Each application must align with overarching BCRP challenges, ensuring a focus on impactful research. The program acknowledges both individual and collaborative Principal Investigators, emphasizing the importance of timely submissions to avoid administrative issues.

The Senator Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Specialized Research Centers (MDSRC) program is designed to enhance research on muscular dystrophy through a collaborative, center-based approach. By fostering interdisciplinary projects and providing essential training for emerging scientists, the MDSRCs aim to drive innovation in both basic and clinical research. Engaging patient and advocacy communities is a key component, ensuring research is patient-centered and informed by real-world needs. This initiative is supported by various legislative authorities.

The National Institutes of Health is funding a groundbreaking project to enhance our understanding of Type 1 diabetes (T1D) through multimodal AI. This initiative aims to integrate diverse datasets to explore the interactions of biological processes in T1D development. By leveraging advanced AI models, the research will uncover critical insights, identify biomarkers, and pave the way for personalized medicine approaches, ultimately improving prevention and treatment strategies for this complex disease.

The SETAC North America Student Meeting Attendance Grant supports student participation in annual meetings, emphasizing inclusivity and excellence. This program provides waived registration and stipends for costs such as travel and dependent care. Eligible students can apply during abstract submission from March to May, with grants available for each degree program. The initiative encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds, particularly those from indigenous communities and minority-serving institutions, enhancing representation within the environmental sciences.

The W. Storrs Cole Memorial Research Award, offered by the Geological Society of America (GSA), supports innovative research in invertebrate micropaleontology. This prestigious award honors the legacy of Dr. W. Storrs Cole, a pivotal figure in the society's history. Recipients may be previous awardees and must have published significant works in the field. The GSA aims to advance geoscience through such initiatives, fostering scientific discovery and professional growth among earth scientists globally.

About

The Community Foundation of Central Georgia was founded in 1993 by a group of citizens interested in encouraging philanthropy and strengthening communities.

The Foundation provides donors a simple, powerful, and highly personal approach to giving. Through their funds, CFCG donors support the causes and organizations that they care about, which enhances the quality of life for the people of Central Georgia.

Our vision is a Central Georgia where philanthropy thrives, communities are strong, and citizens work toward common goals.

Al Lucas Memorial Scholarship Fund

Albert James “Big Luke” Lucas was born September 1, 1978, to David E. and Elaine H. Lucas. He passed away on April 10, 2005, from a spinal cord injury he suffered during a Los Angeles Avengers arena football game. He was married to De’Shonda, and had a daughter, Mariah.

Al was a native of Macon, Georgia, graduating from Northeast High School in 1996. Following graduation, he attended Troy State University on a full athletic scholarship, and shined as a defensive lineman for the Trojans. Throughout college Al studied hard and cherished his time on the field and in 2000 was awarded the distinguished Buck Buchanan Award as the top defensive player in Division 1-AA. He was also an outstanding member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He graduated in 2000 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice. Al went on to join the National Football League, signing as a free agent with the Pittsburgh Steelers and later playing for the Carolina Panthers. Later he joined the Arena Football League, playing for the Tampa Bay Storm, and finally the Los Angeles Avengers.

Al was a strong athlete with a heart of gold who believed in giving back to the community that supported him over the years. He especially loved working with children and served as a substitute teacher and coach at Northeast High School during the off-season. He was a member of Steward Chapel A.M.E. Church where he first learned the responsibility and power of tithing.

Al Lucas exemplified the characteristics of a scholar-athlete. He loved athletics, but knew his studies came first. He served his community and the Lord. He expected the best of himself and others. He excelled on the football field and in life. Recipients of the Al Lucas Memorial Scholarship will reflect Al’s ideals and carry on his legacy of excellence.

Purpose

• To honor the memory of Al Lucas by providing college scholarships to scholar athletes in Al’s hometown of Macon, Georgia.

Awards

• Amount of Award: $1,000, non-renewable.
• Number of Awards: 7 per year. Two awards will be given to scholar-athletes graduating from Northeast High School, Al’s alma mater. One winner shall be female and one male. The other five awards will be given to student-athletes from each of the other five Bibb County public high schools. One will be awarded at each school.

The Clifton-Whitehead Scholarship Fund, established by Edward S. Whitehead, Jr. in honor of his relatives, supports deserving students in Middle Georgia, particularly in Bibb County. This fund aims to assist students of good character facing financial challenges in obtaining a college education. Annually, approximately 12 awards of around $1,000 are granted. Eligible recipients must maintain a minimum GPA and can renew the scholarship for up to four years, provided they meet the established criteria.

The Christine Riggins Shepherd Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, aims to support students from Lamar, Pike, Monroe, Upson, or Spalding counties attending Georgia Southern University. With at least one award given annually, the scholarship amount varies. Recipients can renew their scholarships for up to four years if they maintain eligibility. Preference is given to applicants from Lamar County, promoting educational opportunities for local students.

The Alvin V. Palmer Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, honors the legacy of Alvin V. Palmer, a dedicated veteran and entrepreneur. This fund provides financial support for college and technical school scholarships to current and former residents of Greene County, Georgia. With a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities, this scholarship aims to empower deserving students from Mr. Palmer's hometown to achieve their academic goals.

The Greater Tindall Neighborhood Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, aims to support residents of Tindall Heights pursuing post-secondary education. It offers $2,000 per recipient, renewable for up to four years. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA, and enroll full-time at an accredited institution. The scholarship fosters educational growth and community development, ensuring that residents have the necessary resources to succeed in their academic endeavors.

The Gladys Lasky Endowment Fund Ballet Scholarship, established in 2000 by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, aims to support ballet students in Georgia by providing funding for classical ballet instruction or summer intensives. Each year, one scholarship is awarded to a deserving student, prioritizing those with financial need and ties to Central Georgia. Recipients are selected based on recommendations, potential for success, and years of formal dance training.

The Dr. Curtis Jones Leadership Award Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, honors the legacy of Dr. Curtis Jones, a distinguished educator and former Superintendent. This scholarship aims to support a graduating senior from Bibb County Public Schools who exemplifies leadership, scholarship, and citizenship. Awarded annually at $1,875, it is renewable for up to four years, encouraging students to achieve their academic goals while honoring Dr. Jones's commitment to education and community.

The Richard I. Stessel Waste Management Award, presented annually by the Air & Waste Management Association, honors outstanding achievements in waste management. This prestigious award acknowledges individuals and organizations for their significant contributions to the science and practice of waste management, including technological advancements, waste regulation, and educational excellence. Named after Professor Richard I. Stessel, the award promotes innovative solutions for environmental sustainability, encouraging professionals to serve as role models in the field.

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

Chicken & Egg Films shapes a more equitable and just world with the catalytic power of documentary films by providing funding, mentorship and industry access to a global community of women and gender-expansive filmmakers. Founded in 2005 by Julie Parker Benello, Wendy Ettinger, and Judith Helfand, and helmed today by CEO Jenni Wolfson, our goal is to disrupt and dismantle barriers to filmmaking caused by gender bias.

Research & Development Grant

Now in its fourth year, the Research & Development Grant supports filmmakers from around the world who have directed at least one feature-length documentary and are in the research & development stage of their next feature-length film.

With continued grant-making support by Netflix, the Research & Development Grant supports directors to ideate and plan for their next feature-length film. Many filmmakers invest their personal resources into their films and face funding challenges when entering into the research & development stages of new projects. It is hard to secure funding for a new project without significant sample material, yet producing material without external funding can be almost impossible. To address this challenge, the Research & Development Grant provides financial support to directors during a filmmaking stage that is too often unpaid and unsupported. 

A total of $450,000 USD will be awarded in the following grant amounts:

• $10,000 USD grants for Research
• $20,000 USD grants for Development

The final number of Research Grants vs. Development Grants disbursed will be determined during the selection process, based on the characteristics and strength of the applicant pool for each category.

The purpose of the Research & Development Grant is to support projects at the early stages of their lifecycle. If you have already raised a significant amount of capital (over 35% of your film’s total budget) and have shot and/or edited a substantial amount of footage, you may not be competitive for this grant, unless you can demonstrate very specific needs for the project (such as previously overlooked research activity). 

We have separated the Research Grant from the Development Grant to allow early-stage projects to receive support without the need to submit all the deliverables required for projects in the development phase. 

We recognize that each documentary is unique and that processes for research and development, fundraising, and production can vary widely. The information provided here is not intended as strict eligibility criteria, but rather as general guidelines to help applicants understand the stage at which we aim to provide support for projects. 

The 2026 Chicken & Egg Films Research & Development Grant is generously supported by Netflix.

The Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM) program aims to enhance maternal health outcomes by providing technical assistance across all U.S. states and territories. This initiative focuses on implementing best practices to improve safety during childbirth, ultimately saving lives. By supporting jurisdictions and birthing facilities involved in AIM, the program seeks to promote quality improvements in maternal health care, ensuring safer births and better health for mothers and infants.

The Earthwatch Institute's Teach Earth Fellowship connects K-12 teachers with scientists through immersive research expeditions. Celebrating 50 years, this program empowers educators to inspire students with hands-on environmental science experiences. Teachers gain confidence, collaborate with peers, and develop impactful curricula. The fellowship includes workshops, networking opportunities, and resources to enhance environmental education in classrooms. Participants return with renewed purpose, ready to engage their communities in conservation efforts.

The Women's Initiative for Screening and Health (WISH) aims to enhance women's health by increasing access to preventive services. This initiative brings together healthcare providers, academic institutions, and patient-centered organizations to improve the adoption of evidence-based guidelines for women's preventive health. By raising awareness and ensuring the guidelines are integrated into clinical practice, WISH addresses key health challenges faced by women throughout their lives.