Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations

Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education provides leadership, oversight, funding, support, and accountability for the Commonwealth's approximately 400 school districts that educate close to 1 million public school children each year. We also oversees programs that serve 20,000 adult learners each year.

Civics Teaching and Learning

The purpose of this competitive grant program is to support teaching and learning related to civics, as required by Chapter 296 of the Acts of 2018 and emphasized in the 2018 History and Social Science Framework.

This grant supports LEAs to develop and/or select curriculum materials, implement professional development, and design other enriching learning experiences intended to further students' civic knowledge, skills and dispositions. LEAs may propose to collaborate with vendors to support this work. Proposals may include interdisciplinary elements or other opportunities for civic learning beyond the history/social science classroom.

In addition, the grant supports implementation of grade 8 and high school civics projects, the hosting of local civics project showcases, participation in the Massachusetts Civics Project Showcases, and other enrichment activities focused on meaningful civic learning.

For details about the civics projects and other civics instructional information, please visit Civics.

This grant is structured as a two-year program. LEAs awarded funding in FY27 (Year 1) and contingent upon available funds and satisfactory progress awardees may apply only for continuation funding in FY28 (Year 2) to support the next phase of their projects. Continuation funding is not guaranteed. Contingent upon available funds, a new cohort of LEAs may be selected through the FY28 competitive RFP process. FY27 awardees will not be eligible to apply under the new FY28 competitive RFP.

Priorities

DESE seeks to fund civics teaching and learning initiatives that exemplify:

• Equity. Grant-funded projects should increase all students' access to high-quality civics education experiences and work to address historical inequities where they exist. In addition, projects should provide students with culturally and linguistically sustaining learning experiences that value and affirm their identities and linguistic resources, center student and community agency, and develop students' critical perspectives. Supports for multilingual learners should be developed in alignment with the 2020 WIDA English Language Development Framework.

• Sustainability. Grant-funded projects should take steps toward long-term enhancements to civics education, including, but not limited to, the development of supportive instructional leadership structures. Investments such as professional development for educators or acquisition of needed instructional materials can provide benefits long past the period of this grant, as opposed to "one-off" activities.

• Civic deeper learning. Grant-funded projects should help students master civic knowledge, skills and dispositions, appropriate to grade-level standards, through creative agency and opportunities to actively "do civics." Civic action should be student-led and meaningful to students as individuals, with relevance to their identities and lived experiences. Civic learning should be an integrated part of the larger curriculum, not isolated experiences, lessons, or units.

The ESI CARES Foundation Grant, established in 2018, focuses on environmental responsibility through a metal recycling program. By collecting recyclable materials from construction projects across the U.S., the foundation aims to generate funds for community support. It prioritizes programs that address community needs, particularly those benefiting women and children, with an emphasis on sustainability and innovative solutions. The foundation seeks to create a lasting positive impact in the communities it serves.

The Makulinski Family Foundation Grant supports nonprofit and charity organizations, emphasizing sustainable community development. With a commitment to lasting change, MFF actively matches investments to amplify their impact, ranging from 10:1 to 1:2 based on beneficiary needs. The foundation welcomes proposals from various regions, including Ohio, Michigan, and South Carolina, and encourages applications that align with their mission. Interested parties can access the grant request form to submit their proposals.

The Juliet Ashby Hillman Foundation Grant supports organizations that help young people in the Portland, Oregon area thrive. With a focus on cultural vibrancy and sustainability, the Foundation aims to mitigate risk factors affecting youth potential. Applications are accepted year-round, with a deadline of October 1, 2025, for this year. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships that foster a healthier, more stable future for the community.

Steve Wagner Scholarship

Steve Wagner retired as executive director of the American Council of Engineering Companies of Michigan (ACEC/M) in 2003 after 34 years of service. As a member of the Capitol Club and Michigan Society of Association Executives, Steve was well respected by his peers and colleagues and is known for his honesty and integrity.

Steve and his wife, Lana, were married in 1965 and have two daughters, Shelley and Whitney. Throughout his career, Steve has been a proponent of community service and has given many hours himself to church and community programs. Steve also has been a strong proponent of education. ACEC/M has established this scholarship in honor of Steve Wagner to award engineering and surveying students who, like Steve, are active in the community and find it important and necessary to give something back.

The Alvah & Doris Veit Foundation Academic Grant aims to support Camden, NJ high school graduates pursuing engineering degrees. Established in 2011, this charitable foundation awards grants based on proposals, with a median size of $5,000. Eligible applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, financial need, and community involvement. Grant funds can be used for tuition and educational materials, with applications reviewed quarterly. The foundation is dedicated to fostering academic achievement and community improvement among local students.

Lexington Medical Center Foundation Inc

Since 1971, Lexington Health has grown and expanded to meet the needs of our community. The Lexington Health Foundation Remains Committed to Quality Care. Foundation-funded programs aim to enhance patient experiences and touch the various areas of care at Lexington Health — Patient, Employee, and Community Care.

Event and Project Sponsorship

Lexington Medical Center supports local organizations and nonprofits throughout the Midlands.

We support local events and causes that enhance the health and vibrance of our community. You can request sponsorship or other assistance for a project or event based in the South Carolina Midlands community.

The Harvard Academy for International and Area Studies—Academy Scholars Program is designed for recent PhD recipients and advanced doctoral candidates in the social sciences. This prestigious program provides a two-year in-residence postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard University, offering financial and research support. Scholars engage in interdisciplinary research, mentorship, and collaborative activities to enhance their academic careers while contributing insights on global issues through a comparative lens.

The Jenny and Antti Wihuri Foundation Grant supports various projects in research, arts, and societal activities, fostering initiatives that promote creativity and inclusivity. It offers grants for scientific research, artistic endeavors, and societal engagement, encouraging applications from individuals, groups, and registered organizations. However, it excludes funding for certain areas such as medicine, visual arts exhibitions, and travel costs. The application process occurs annually in spring, providing opportunities for diverse projects to gain financial support.

The Jack Lewis Safety Fund, established by the Walter Scott Family Foundation, honors Dr. Jack K. Lewis and supports Nebraska and southwest Iowa communities. Grants up to $50,000 are available for safety-related projects, including equipment, training, and facility improvements. Applicants must serve communities with 5,000 or fewer residents or be located in specific counties. Priority is given to projects showcasing local fundraising and collaboration. Applications are accepted year-round with specific deadlines for review cycles.

General Operating Support (GOS)

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (CAH) is soliciting applications from qualified arts, humanities, or arts education organizations for its Fiscal Year 2027 General Operating Support Grant Program (GOS). Award amounts vary. An award to an individual organization with an annual operating budget exceeding $115,000 may not exceed 50% of the organization's annual operating budget exclusive of funds granted by the Commission on the Arts and Humanities.

Applicants may submit one (1) grant application to this program per fiscal year cycle.

• Single Year Applicants
• Multi-year Applicants
• Capacity Building Applicants

Capacity Building Applicants

Applicant organizations must not have previously received a competitive grant award from CAH.

This category consists of arts and humanities organizations whose primary purpose is to present and/or produce arts and humanities experiences for the residents of, and visitors to, the District of Columbia. This cohort will support arts and humanities organizations that have not previously been awarded a competitive grant by CAH. Organizations must have been in operation for at least one year by the start of the fiscal year to which they are applying. Capacity Building needs can include but are not limited to staff training, longer organizational initiatives, and sector-strengthening that increases access and awareness of programs for the DC community. 

The RTK Scholars Program, funded by RTK Environmental Group, provides a $1,500 scholarship to support students pursuing careers in science, particularly in environmental studies, biology, and engineering. This initiative aims to cultivate the next generation of experts in environmental testing and technology. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be enrolled in an accredited institution. The application deadline is May 31 each year, promoting academic excellence and dedication to environmental sciences.

The Community Foundation of West Texas offers South Plains Foundation Grants aimed at fostering charitable programs in Lubbock County, Texas. Established in 1981, the foundation supports various community needs including education, healthcare, and economic development. Grants typically do not exceed $10,000 and are available to 501(c)(3) nonprofits and local government units. Eligible organizations must report on the use of funds within one year of receiving the grant, ensuring accountability and effective use of resources.

The RSA–Virginia Fox Stern Center Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for scholars to conduct intensive research at the Johns Hopkins University Sheridan Libraries. This one-month fellowship focuses on pre-1800 rare book and manuscript collections, particularly the Women of the Book Collection and the Bibliotheca Fictiva Collection. It encourages innovative research that contributes to Renaissance studies, supporting scholars across all disciplines and career levels.

The Ashe County Community Foundation Grant supports local nonprofits through various funds, including those for education and children's programs. Established in 1995, ACCF aids community development via competitive grants, typically ranging from $500 to $2,000. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities or local government units, promoting inclusivity without discrimination. This grant is vital for enhancing community assets and addressing local needs in Ashe County.

The Hometown Partners Giving Circle Grant Program aims to strengthen communities in Aurora, Marionville, and Verona by fully funding impactful projects. The program, managed by the Aurora Area Community Foundation, invites nonprofit organizations to submit proposals. Eligible applicants include IRS-approved entities that serve the local area and can attend a check presentation on May 17, 2025. Grant submissions are accepted from March 17 to April 11, 2025, fostering collaboration and community enhancement.

The Warner Area Community Foundation Grant, part of the South Dakota Community Foundation, aims to enhance philanthropy by supporting local nonprofits and providing scholarships. This grant allows for the administration of charitable gifts and focuses on fulfilling basic needs while improving the quality of life in the region. By empowering local organizations, it fosters community development and encourages youth engagement through educational opportunities.

The Young Faculty Award (YFA) 2027, sponsored by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), seeks to support emerging researchers in academia and non-profit research institutions. This program focuses on those without previous DARPA funding, aiming to align innovative research with national security needs. By providing significant funding, the YFA encourages the development of transformative capabilities for the Department of War, fostering the next generation of researchers dedicated to addressing critical national security challenges.

The NIH Support for Conferences and Scientific Meetings (R13) grant aims to facilitate high-quality conferences that contribute to public health and the scientific missions of NIH Institutes and Centers. Key application deadlines range from April 2024 to January 2027, providing vital opportunities for researchers to gather and share knowledge. This grant is particularly focused on enhancing the impact of scientific dialogue in critical health areas.

The Al Kersich Student Excellence Award, offered by Montana State University, recognizes outstanding students pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering. This merit-based award aims to support students with exceptional academic records and potential for success. It is available to Montana High School graduates, emphasizing the importance of local talent in the engineering field. Award amounts vary, providing financial assistance to help deserving students achieve their educational goals.

The NIH Director's New Innovator Award supports creative early-stage investigators pursuing innovative research with transformative potential for science relevant to the NIH mission. Applications are encouraged across all NIH-related fields, enhancing support for emerging talent. This award is part of the NIH Common Fund's High-Risk, High-Reward Research Program, which aims to cultivate groundbreaking research and foster the next generation of scientists.

The BJA FY 2026 DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Competitive Grants Program aims to enhance the capacity of state and local government crime laboratories for processing DNA samples. This program focuses on using DNA technology to improve forensic efficiency and implement Rapid DNA in booking stations. It targets jurisdictions with operational challenges, ensuring fair access to funding. Eligible agencies can apply for both competitive and formula CEBR funding.

The Crystelle Waggoner Charitable Trust supports charitable organizations in the arts and social services, with a focus on those operating in Tarrant County. Established by Crystelle Waggoner, the trust provides grants ranging from $15,000 to $40,000. Eligible organizations must have been in existence since before January 24, 1982, and must wait one grant cycle before reapplying for funding. The trust aims to continue Waggoner's legacy of supporting the community.

The John W. and Edna McManus Shepard Fund, managed by The Columbus Foundation, supports cultural and economic initiatives that enhance the quality of life for residents in Cambridge and Guernsey County. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that serve these communities. This fund aims to foster community development and enrich local culture through various programs and projects.

The Paul G. and Miriam B. Mattern Fund Grant, established in 2012, honors the legacy of Paul and Miriam Mattern, dedicated volunteers from Walton, NY. The fund supports projects that enhance the cultural and social well-being of the community, providing grants up to $5,000 annually to qualified non-profit organizations. Matching grants are encouraged, and various types of support, including capital and program funding, are available to strengthen community initiatives.

About the KBF

Guided by a clear purpose and a deep sense of responsibility, the Kentucky Bar Foundation is committed to fueling access to justice and expanding legal knowledge throughout the Commonwealth. We envision a Kentucky where justice is within reach for all and we bring that vision to life through values rooted in integrity, compassion, service, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous growth.

Signature Justice Grant

We award a $50,000 grant to support bold, innovative projects that create lasting improvements in access to justice and legal education across Kentucky.

About the Signature Justice Grant 

The Signature Justice Grant is a new opportunity from the Kentucky Bar Foundation to invest in bold ideas that have the potential to make a meaningful and lasting difference. 

Unlike KBF's regular annual grants, which support a broad range of important programs and services throughout Kentucky, the Signature Justice Grant is intended for a single transformative project. 

KBF is looking for projects that are new, innovative, or represent a substantial expansion of an existing initiative. The project should address a significant need and have the potential to improve access to justice or expand legal knowledge in ways that can continue beyond the grant period. 

The Signature Justice Grant is an additional grant opportunity and will not replace or reduce KBF's regular annual grantmaking.

KBF is looking for projects that think differently about how access to justice or legal education can be improved. An innovative or transformative project may introduce a new approach, technology, partnership, service model, or resource; significantly expand the reach or impact of an existing program; or address a longstanding need in a new and potentially more effective way. 

Our Mission

Founded in 1987, the Foundation has a mission to provide resources to deliver the benefits of parks and recreation to all.

Our Vision

To build a better Iowa through parks and recreation.

Slattery / Trueblood Professional Award

The highest professional award in IPRA, the Slattery/Trueblood Professional encompasses many traits. To be considered for this award, the nominee should be a person who has given of themselves as they work with their clientele. Their everyday life should exemplify outstanding, dedicated, and unselfish service to the profession, community, and to IPRA.

Any IPRA member in good standing may nominate candidates for each award. The nominees may be endorsed by other members of the IPRA with the exception of Awards Committee members. Awards Committee members may not nominate, sponsor, or write letters of support for nominees.

The nomination should be typewritten or legibly printed and include the appropriate information as stated for each award. Nominations should include any supporting data, such as letters of support, copies of news releases, etc. Each nomination must include the nomination cover sheet, as well as all applicable nomination criteria listed in this brochure.