Best Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Kansas

Jim Kohl "Give Me A Chance" Scholarship Fund

Most college scholarships these days are given to students who have excelled in their studies throughout their high school years, or whose need is so great that college might not be possible without the help of generous private donors. But what about the “late bloomers”—those students who realize the value of education, or find their own particular interests, too late to maintain an enviable grade point average? Thanks to Jim Kohl, late bloomers in the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District have a chance at financial assistance in furthering their education.

The fund benefits students of Monroe High School who may have been underachievers in their freshman or sophomore years, which would exclude them from many other scholarship opportunities. The intent is that these students will be given the encouragement to continue their studies and become productive, contributing members of the community.

The scholarship is administered by the Monroe Rural Fire Protection District. A committee of volunteers from the areas of Alpine, Bellfountain, Irish Bend, and Monroe review the applications and interview all applicants individually. The scholarship is awarded to senior students to attend the college or university of their choice.

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

First Choice Members Scholarship ($2,000)

Applicants must be a current First Choice by Select Health member and provide their member ID# for this non-renewable scholarship. 

About Scholarships

Through the incredible generosity of our donors, the Community Foundation of South Puget Sound manages 26 scholarship funds that offer a wide range of scholarship awards and encourage students of all backgrounds and educational interests to apply. We also want to extend a sincere thank you to our many scholarship donors, advisors, and scholarship committee members for their investment in our student's bright futures this year and for many years to come!

L&E Bottling Company Scholarship

The L&E Bottling Company Scholarship Fund was established by the L&E Bottling Company, Inc. to assist graduating high school seniors in Thurston County in obtaining a higher education. This scholarship has the potential to be renewed for up to an additional three years of undergraduate education. Reapplication each year is required.

John Callahan Memorial Fund

John changed people’s lives wherever he went. From his time at Corvallis High School in the soccer program, to his time at Winco, to his co-workers at Hewlett-Packard – he knew no strangers and always had time for a friendly hello. He was a wonderful husband, son, and loving father and made everyone happier when he was around. The John Callahan Memorial Scholarship is a soccer scholarship established at the Benton Community Foundation by his family and friends to honor his legacy and as a way to continue helping youth in the Corvallis community.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Vera DoLean Ginn Kiwanis Scholarship

Shelby County resident pursuing a career in elementary education. 

Selection based upon:

• Intent to pursue the field of elementary education, financial need, academic ability, community and school service, recommendations.

Awards

• Two $1,000 scholarships

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) seeks to advance its mission by continuing support for a Clinical Research Network on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). AMR is a major health challenge that limits treatment options and allows resistant infections to persist. Individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes and cancer are particularly vulnerable, resulting in increased illness and death as well as higher healthcare costs in the United States. The program aims to design, implement, and manage clinical research addressing key clinical questions in AMR. Research will focus on bacterial and fungal infections associated with AMR. Areas of emphasis include clinical testing of new antibiotics and other treatments such as bacteriophage therapy, methods optimizing the use of existing antibiotics, evaluating novel diagnostic tests including using diagnostics to refine treatment strategies, and mentoring the next generation of AMR clinical researchers. Grant authorities that allow NIAID to forecast this opportunity are as follows: Sections 301 and 405 of the Public Health Service Act as amended (42 USC 241 and 284) and under Federal Regulations 42 CFR Part 52 and 2 CFR Part 200.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Tom and Sandy Shoemaker Skills Scholarship

Adults or graduating seniors who reside in Shelby County, Ohio or in the School Districts of Shelby County, Ohio, who are enrolling in an accredited adult educational program or trade school or pursuing an Associate’s Degree shall be eligible to apply.

Selection based upon:

• Demonstrated interest and passion for a specific career path, demonstrated work experience, demonstrated community or school service and recommendations.

Awards

• One $1,000 scholarship

Arizona Community Foundation

For more than four decades, the Arizona Community Foundation has worked in tandem with generous individuals, families, and organizations to address some of the biggest challenges facing our state.

Scholarships

In partnership with our generous donors, we award millions of dollars annually to help students achieve their educational goals. Through our online system, students complete one application and are matched with available scholarships, based on their eligibility requirements.

The Leslie Scholarship Fund 

The Leslie Scholarship Fund will benefit students entering or in a four-year nursing program.

The CORE Funding: AHNS Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association Award aims to support vital research projects focused on thyroid cancer, encompassing prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes. This initiative by the American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery Foundation promotes advancements in the field through funding opportunities that enhance research capabilities and foster collaboration among researchers. Through the support of this award, significant strides can be made in understanding and combating thyroid cancer.

The Sanofi-Regeneron Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Mid-Career Award, funded by the Dermatology Foundation, supports exceptional researchers committed to addressing dermatological issues affecting underrepresented groups. Offering $100,000 annually for up to three years, this award emphasizes projects that enhance understanding and improve health equity in dermatology. Eligibility includes a strong research commitment, relevant training, and a faculty appointment within 12 years of becoming an Assistant Professor. It encourages minority applicants to foster diversity in medical research.

The Community Foundation’s scholarships are for Arkansas students pursuing education at two- or four-year colleges or universities, vocational schools or technical training programs. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria. Some scholarships are designated for graduates of a particular high school or those who plan to attend a particular college. Others are based on extracurricular activities or intended college majors.  

The Foundation has a scholarship portal with a quiz to help applicants determine scholarship eligibility. 

“Since 1976, the Community Foundation has partnered with individuals and organizations who want to support our state’s students in their pursuit of higher education,” said Heather Larkin, Community Foundation president and CEO. “These generous people provide the funding and determine the size and eligibility criteria of each scholarship, while we oversee the application and awarding process on their behalf.”  

Poultry Federation Scholarship

Provides scholarships to students pursuing a degree related to the poultry industry.

The Cancer Research Education Grants Program (R25) aims to enhance research education in areas crucial to the NIH mission. This program supports innovative courses that develop skills in cancer research, covering topics such as prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Grant applications are encouraged to be creative and state-of-the-art, addressing the needs of patients and their families. Key deadlines for applications span from January 2024 to September 2026, ensuring ongoing support for educational initiatives.

The CORE Funding: AHNS Trainee Pilot Research Award supports innovative research in head and neck oncology, encouraging trainees to engage in clinical or translational studies. Since its inception, CORE has provided over $14 million in grants, facilitating significant advancements in otolaryngology. This initiative aims to enhance research efforts, reduce fragmentation, and promote collaboration among various stakeholders to improve outcomes for patients with head and neck neoplastic diseases.

The CORE Funding: Lilly Research Grant aims to advance research on genetic hearing loss. It invites investigators to explore the genetic factors contributing to hearing loss, promoting innovative projects that enhance understanding in this critical area. Supported by the American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery Foundation, the grant fosters significant research efforts to improve outcomes and strategies in otolaryngology, ensuring a comprehensive approach to hearing health.

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.

Andy Peek Livestock Endowed Scholarship Fund

This scholarship opportunity, offered annually by the Red Bluff Bull and Gelding Sale, awards students whose intended major is Agricultural Studies.

The Andy Peek Livestock Endowed Scholarship Fund was established by the Red Bluff Bull and Gelding Sale in honor and memory of Andy Peek. Andy was president of Western Video Market and also General Manager of Shasta Livestock Auction Yard in Cottonwood, California, a family-owned business where he worked for over four decades. To continue his support of youth programs, this scholarship is offered annually to students majoring in Agricultural Studies (with an emphasis in the livestock industry) who share Andy’s desire to work in the industry he dearly loved.

The Engineering Environmental Resiliency (EER) program, funded by the National Science Foundation, promotes innovative research focused on resource and energy conservation while enhancing environmental protection. By advancing technologies in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and sustainable manufacturing, EER aims to create resilient U.S. manufacturing systems. Key areas of interest include waste reduction, life cycle assessments, and the interaction of nanomaterials with biological systems, all contributing to a sustainable future.

The Medical Student Research Supplement Award by the Dermatology Foundation supports medical students' research in dermatology, encouraging diversity and inclusion. This award offers $5,000 for direct research expenses, fostering the involvement of full-time students from underrepresented backgrounds. Eligible applicants must be current or former DF career development awardees and must recruit medical students pursuing MD or DO degrees who meet specific academic criteria. The award enhances research participation and strengthens the academic workforce in dermatology.

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.

Dr. Frank L. Doane Memorial Scholarship Fund

A renewable reward opportunity for qualified Tehama County high school graduates who plan to pursue a career as a registered nurse.

Dr. Frank L Doane acquired his medical degree in 1903 and opened a medical office in Red Bluff in 1904. He was born in Michigan in 1874 and his family moved to Red Bluff in 1885. He continued his medical practice into the early 50’s.

Jessie M. McKinney was Dr. Doane’s sister-in-law who at one time was a journalist for the Portland Oregonian. Out of respect for Dr. Doane, the residual of her estate was placed in a trust for scholarships, establishing the Dr. Frank L. Doane Memorial Scholarship Fund to be given to qualified Tehama County high school graduates who plan to pursue a career as a registered nurse. This trust has been ongoing since her death in 1963. The trust executor moved the funds and facilitation of the scholarship award to the Community Foundation in 2016. The award is renewable for up to four-years of the student’s undergraduate academic career.

The Dermatology Foundation offers Career Development Awards to support the academic growth of emerging investigators in various dermatologic fields. With an annual stipend of $55,000, these awards foster research addressing significant health issues, including public health, diversity, and women's health. Eligible applicants must demonstrate strong institutional support and meet specific educational requirements. The awards can be renewed for up to three years, contingent on the recipient's progress and commitment to advancing dermatological science.

Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi 

The Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi manages 314 donor-established funds and has disbursed over $48 million to support more than 1,000 charitable organizations and activities recommended by its donors, as well as charitable programs established by the foundation. Established in 2002 with a generous grant from the Maddox Foundation, the Community Foundation is an independent 501(c)3 charitable organization. The Foundation serves Bolivar, Coahoma, DeSoto, Leflore, Marshall, Panola, Quitman, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tunica and Yalobusha counties. 

Noah’s Gift Grant

 Noah’s Gift is an endowed fund that was established in memory of Noah Costa at the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi. This grant exists to provide extraordinary experiences to deserving teens 13-19 years old.

 Noah’s Gift grants are made to teens who dream to have an extraordinary experience! It encourages applicants to be creative and to explore opportunities or goals they might not have otherwise had the means to achieve. We encourage applicants to explore educational opportunities not covered by scholarships and financial aid such as study abroad or dues required for participation in service organizations. However, funds cannot be used for tuition expenses.

Although team sports were an important part of Noah’s life, requests solely for sports equipment cannot be considered. Applications for travel or tryout expenses may be considered if the applicant demonstrates the impact it will have on them. 

Local Agriculture Market Program

The Local Agriculture Market Program (LAMP) supports the development, coordination, and expansion of direct producer-to-consumer marketing; local and regional food markets and enterprises; and value-added agricultural products. The primary goals of LAMP are to:

• Connect and cultivate regional food economies through public-private partnerships.    
• Support the development of business plans, feasibility studies, and strategies for value-added agricultural production and local and regional food system infrastructure.    
• Strengthen capacity and regional food system development through community collaboration and expansion of mid-tier value chains. 
• Improve income and economic opportunities for producers and food businesses through job creation; and   
• Simplify the application processes and the reporting processes for the program.

LAMP is an umbrella program created in the 2018 Farm Bill. LAMP encompasses the Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP), Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP), Regional Food System Partnerships Program (RFSP), and Value-Added Producer Grants Program (VAPG). LAMP funding is divided between these grant programs.

New Innovator in Food & Agriculture Research Award

The New Innovator in Food & Agriculture Research Award provides early-career scientists the investment needed to propel them into successful research careers.

The Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR) seeks nominations for its 2026 New Innovator in Food and Agriculture Research Award. Through this program, FFAR intends to provide early-career scientists with the investment needed to propel them into successful research careers. The New Innovator Award program supports and promotes exceptionally talented new faculty who are conducting critical and highly innovative research addressing significant food and agriculture challenges. These awards allow grantees to focus exclusively on research without the pressure of securing additional funding.

The New Innovator Award is a flagship program of FFAR’s Scientific Workforce Priority Area and seeks to promote career advancement of promising new scientists who intend to make a long-term career commitment to research in food and agriculture and bring innovative, ground-breaking research initiatives and thinking to bear on problems facing food and agriculture. Within the scope of the New Innovator Award program, investigators have the freedom to explore new avenues of inquiry that arise during their research. Therefore, FFAR is interested in the program of research to be explored and its impact as opposed to a list of very specific aims.

It is expected that, through this program, investigators will have the ability to pursue highly creative ideas, firmly establish their early lines of research into important food and agriculture scientific areas and provide funding stability in the critical early career years.

Each applicant can receive from FFAR up to $150,000 per year for a maximum of three years totaling a $450,000 investment.

To further support the grantees, and allow them to fully focus on their research, matching funds are not required for this program.

Stanislaus Community Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students in order to help them achieve their educational and career goals. We believe that by investing in our students, we are investing in a brighter future for Stanislaus. 

Stanislaus Futures Scholarship

Open to current graduating Stanislaus County high school seniors participating in a college readiness and/or mentorship program and pursuing an associate’s or bachelor’s degree from an accredited post-secondary institution. Must be a first gen college student and demonstrate financial need.

Award Amount:

• $1,000–$3,000 

Stanislaus Futures is generously supported, in part, by an anonymous fundholder, The Arthur T. and Corinne K. Shields Fund, The Zwahlen Family Fund, the NOZ Fund, and the Virgil A. Farquhar, Jr. Trust. Scholarships are renewable up to 2 years.

The Japan America Society / Japan Society Capacity Building Grant Program supports grassroots initiatives aimed at enhancing mutual understanding between the U.S. and Japan. With grant amounts up to $30,000 for 12 months, eligible organizations can apply for projects in fundraising, strategic planning, public relations, and more. The program prioritizes projects that foster collaboration and demonstrate sustainability, ensuring a lasting positive impact on communities.

The Ethel Zwiebel Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of the North State, supports Shasta County students majoring in music who demonstrate financial need. This award is open to graduating high school seniors and Shasta College students completing their two-year music program. By fostering educational goals, this scholarship aims to empower young musicians to pursue their passion for music in higher education.

The Centers of Excellence in Healthcare Quality and Safety program aims to establish a collaborative network of healthcare systems and public health partners to enhance patient and healthcare worker safety. This initiative focuses on improving the quality and resilience of U.S. healthcare delivery across various settings, including hospitals and outpatient facilities. By fostering partnerships, the program seeks to effectively detect, respond to, and prevent safety threats, ensuring a higher standard of care and safety for all.

Each year, Innovia awards over $400,000 in scholarships to deserving students like you who are college-bound or pursuing vocational or technical training. Single scholarship awards range between $500 and $4,000.

Denny and Thelma Yasuhara Scholarship

Applicants must be high school seniors or graduates from the Inland Northwest who demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture and must be good citizens.

The scholarship committee will consider the applicant’s experience participating in school or community activities and job or volunteer activities, as well as his or her commitment to academic excellence and financial need. Previous recipients of this award are eligible to reapply.