Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations

The Streicker Fund for Student Research at Yale University offers financial support for academic projects requiring international travel, primarily aimed at students conducting research under faculty supervision. These projects may include field research and interviews, and must occur during school breaks. The fund targets various destinations based on expense levels, ensuring accessibility for a broad range of students. This initiative emphasizes the importance of educational travel while maintaining academic commitments.

Armstrong County Community Foundation

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Robert A. & Geneva K. Deveney Engineering Scholarship

This scholarship was established to provide funds for graduating seniors from Armstrong County high schools planning to study engineering.

Scholarship Details

• Available to High School Seniors
• Nonrenewable

All ACCF Scholarships are merit based.

The Micro Grants Program, offered by The Community Foundation of Jackson Hole, provides timely funding to 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities serving Teton County, Wyoming. Applications are accepted from the 1st to the 15th of each month, allowing for project proposals that address immediate community needs. These grants aim to support impactful initiatives, while funds cannot be used for operating expenses or projects already completed. For further details, contact grants@cfjacksonhole.org.

The American Bar Endowment's Opportunity Grant Program provides funding for innovative, boots-on-the-ground initiatives that address urgent legal needs of the public. This grant focuses on increasing access to justice for underserved populations, improving the justice system, and enhancing public understanding of legal rights. Eligible applicants include public charities and organizations directly impacting local communities, with a strong emphasis on projects that leverage technology and address immediate legal challenges.

About Virginia Energy

Virginia Energy is the state agency charged with advancing Virginia's energy, mining, and mineral policies and initiatives. Our mission is to lead the Commonwealth to a safe, reliable and responsible energy future by:

• Providing for safe and environmentally sound stewardship of Virginia's mineral and energy resources;
• Encouraging economic development through the sound stewardship of Virginia's energy, mineral, land and water resources; and
• Successfully pursuing federal funding and implement the Virginia Energy Plan to ensure the Commonwealth has abundant, reliable, affordable and increasingly clean energy.

Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization Program

Virginia Energy is one of nine states and tribal programs chosen by Congress to receive funding in Fiscal Year 2025 to develop and repurpose Abandoned Mine Lands with economic and community development end uses. The 2025 Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization Program (AMLER) funding is made available as a direct payment by the federal Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE), in accordance with the Full Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2025 (Public Law No. 119-4). Virginia has received an average of $10.48 million per year since 2017. Virginia's payment in FY2025 is $11 million.

Projects must follow eligibility and other guidelines set forth in OSMRE's AMLER Guidance document and adhere to Virginia Energy's terms and conditions. Applicants are encouraged to submit projects with the greatest potential to achieve the economic and community development goals of the AMLER Program.

The R21 Clinical Trial Not Allowed funding opportunity invites innovative research to develop and enhance research models and biological materials vital for studying human health and diseases. It emphasizes the need for new approach methodologies (NAMs) to improve the identification of confounding factors in biomedical research. Projects should have broad applicability across multiple NIH Institutes, focusing on various body systems and disease categories, ensuring relevance to a wide range of health issues.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors.

The Reuter Scholarship Fund

• Interested in pursuing a career in engineering, science or technology
• Based on good moral character and student’s overall performance as to academic ability and standing, extracurricular activities, success in dealing with life’s challenges in individual circumstances and financial need

The Thomas D. Buckley Trust Grant, established by Thomas D. Buckley, supports nonprofit organizations focusing on education, religion, and community programs primarily in the Western Panhandle of Nebraska and Northeast Colorado. Following Buckley's passing in 1979, the Trust was formed and has since provided grants to tax-exempt organizations that demonstrate sound financial management and adhere to eligibility requirements, with monthly reviews of grant requests.

The Sylvia Shugrue Award for Elementary School Teachers recognizes outstanding educators who create interdisciplinary, inquiry-based lesson plans. This prestigious award, funded by the National Science Teachers Association, includes a $1,000 grant and additional funding for attending the NSTA National Conference on Science Education. Eligible applicants must be full-time elementary teachers with a minimum of five years of experience and must be NSTA members in good standing. This initiative aims to enhance science education in elementary schools.

The Eda Camphausen Law Scholarship, awarded by the Erie Community Foundation, supports first-year law students at Harvard University who are residents of Erie County. Applicants must have achieved the highest LSAT score for their admission year. In 2023, the foundation provided over $800,000 in scholarships to more than 500 deserving students, emphasizing its commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the community.

The Bank of America Boston Marathon Official Charity Program supports non-profit organizations by providing invitational entries to the marathon. These organizations recruit athletes who pledge to raise funds for their causes. The B.A.A. prioritizes groups focused on building healthy communities, particularly those benefiting the local areas along the marathon route. Eligibility requires organizations to be registered 501(c)(3) and not religious or political. The program emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and sustainability.

The Creative Community Solutions Grant Program, launched by the Bush Foundation in partnership with Strengthen ND, seeks innovative solutions to community challenges in North Dakota. Grants up to $300,000 are available for projects that develop, test, and spread impactful ideas. This initiative empowers diverse local voices through a Grantmaking Committee, ensuring funds are allocated to initiatives that enhance community well-being. Importantly, it focuses on collaborative efforts and does not provide operational support for organizations.

The Hugh M. Nelson Engineering Scholarship, funded by the Erie Community Foundation, supports Erie County residents who are sophomores or juniors enrolled in an ABET-accredited BS Engineering Program at Penn State Behrend or Gannon University. Over $800,000 was awarded in 2023 to help deserving students pursue their educational goals. Selection is based on academic standing, faculty recommendations, involvement in college activities, and financial need.

The Build OC Fund, under the Samueli Foundation, aims to enhance community well-being in Orange County, California, by funding capital projects for nonprofit organizations. Grants of up to $1,000,000 support facility acquisition, construction, renovation, or equipment purchases, helping organizations deliver essential services. Eligible applicants must demonstrate site control and a commitment to the community, with a focus on realistic projects that align with the foundation's mission. Prioritization is given to projects nearing completion.

The Deihl Humanities Grants, established by the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation, aim to support community and public arts or humanities projects that enhance the quality of life in Manhattan and Riley County, Kansas. With a focus on proposals exceeding $10,000, these grants encourage initiatives that bring humanities to life through public programming, fostering community engagement and connections among individuals.

Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities 

The Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities acts as a steward and supporter of Louisiana’s diverse and vibrant culture and history.

To that end, we are dedicated to ensuring access to the humanities, offering and broadening pathways for a lifetime of learning for people of every generation and from every walk of life. We champion the humanities to enrich the lives of all Louisianans in all 64 parishes. 

Our Mission: The Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities’ mission is to partner with communities, institutions, and individuals to explore Louisiana’s past, reflect on our present, and imagine our future.

Constitution Day Grants

Mini grants to institutions supporting existing or developing Constitution Day programming. 

The Palmer Community Foundation Grant Program, an affiliate of The Alaska Community Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life for Palmer area residents by supporting diverse community projects. Funded by a growing endowment, the program prioritizes health, education, outdoor activities, arts, and community development. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations and projects must be completed within a year. Preference is given to new applicants with measurable outcomes and broad community impact.

Community Planning Technical Assistance Program (C-TAP)

Overview The Community Planning Technical Assistance Program (C-TAP) helps local and county governments, along with municipal partner organizations, plan, prepare, and implement strategies that support long-term growth and development. 

The Community Planning Technical Assistance Program (C-TAP) helps local and county governments, along with municipal partner organizations, plan, prepare, and implement strategies that support long-term growth and development. Whether updating ordinances, scoping a larger study, or moving a completed plan into action, eligible applicants receive hands-on, tailored support from experienced planners. C-TAP helps communities move confidently from idea to implementation, with up to 400 hours of technical assistance available per project.

Funding

This program does not provide funding. C-TAP helps communities move confidently from idea to implementation, with up to 400 hours of technical assistance available per project.

The C. Warren Barry Perpetual Foundation Grant supports charitable, educational, and religious causes, primarily within Lake County, Florida. Established in the late 1970s by Mr. Barry, the foundation exclusively funds organizations recognized under IRS Section 501(c)(3). Types of support include program funding, general operating expenses, and scholarships. However, it does not provide grants for capital improvements, ensuring that resources are directed towards immediate community needs.

The Chris Marshall Endowed Presidential Scholarship, established by the William Wayne Justice Center for Public Interest Law, supports outstanding third-year law students committed to public service in Texas. Eligible applicants must have a GPA of 3.44 or higher and demonstrate a strong intent to work in nonprofit, government, or legislative positions post-graduation. This scholarship not only aids students financially but also fosters a commitment to increasing access to justice through public interest lawyering.

Bob Kelly Scholarship

During his 20 years as President and CEO of San Diego Foundation (SDF), Bob Kelly built an enduring legacy that has seen SDF become the regional leader for information about charitable giving and a strong voice for civic engagement. Among a number of significant achievements as President and CEO, Bob was instrumental in building the Community Scholarship Program which is now the largest scholarship provider in San Diego County outside of the university system.

When establishing his own scholarship, Bob wanted to recognize the important role that both San Diego City College and UC San Diego play in the education of so many San Diegans. His hope is to provide a unique scholarship opportunity to those students who may not have been the top of their class, but have since taken advantage of their own “second chance” and are on the path to success.

This scholarship may be used for tuition, books, fees, room & board, and other educational expenses.

The scholarship may be renewable (depending upon available funds) for up to two years of undergraduate coursework at UC San Diego provided the student maintains a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, good citizenship, and continues to have financial need.

• Average number of awards: 2
• Average amount: $3,500

County-Wide Basic Needs Grants

The Basic Needs Grant Cycle provides funding to organizations addressing urgent and foundational needs within local communities. This grant is designed to strengthen the safety net for individuals and families experiencing hardship by supporting programs that deliver food, clothing, essential items, and safe shelter. 

Applicants may request up to $10,000 in funding. Partial awards may be granted based on project need, available funds, and proposal strength. 

Funding Priorities 

Priority will be given to projects and programs that:

Address Immediate or Chronic Food Insecurity: Including food pantries, meal programs, weekend backpack programs, or other efforts ensuring access to nutritious food. 

Provide Essential Clothing: Programs supplying seasonal clothing, winter gear, or everyday clothing in emergency situations for individuals and families. 

Meet Critical Essential Needs: Initiatives providing hygiene products, household essentials, baby items, transportation assistance, or other core necessities. 

Support Access to Safe Shelter: Emergency shelter, transitional housing, homelessness prevention, and programs improving safety or stability for people without housing. 

Use of Funds 

Allowable costs may include, but not limited to: 

• Food purchases or meal program costs 
• Clothing purchases, supplies, or storage needs 
• Hygiene kits, diapers, and essential household items 
• Emergency shelter operations or upgrades 
• Outreach and distribution costs 
• Personnel time directly tied to program implementation 

The Donald W. F. Ching Memorial Scholarship Fund honors Donald Ching, a dedicated Hawaiian Airlines employee. This scholarship is aimed at students in Hawaii who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to first-generation college students and those with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Applicants must be pursuing a degree in Aviation at an accredited institution in the U.S. The fund supports educational advancement for future aviation professionals.

The NIAID Physician-Scientist Pathway to Independence Award (K99/R00) aims to support new independent physician-scientists by facilitating their transition from postdoctoral research to tenure-track faculty positions. This program provides essential research funding to help awardees establish their careers in biomedical research, addressing the national shortage of physician-scientists. Applicants must propose research that does not lead an independent clinical trial, but may include mentorship in clinical trials.

The Farmington Greater Together Community Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, offers up to $7,500 for projects that promote civic engagement and community ownership. This fund supports organizations classified as 501(c)(3) or those using a fiscal agent. Eligible projects must benefit all residents without discrimination and may include broader community initiatives by religious organizations. A final report is required upon project completion.

Scholarship amounts vary depending on the scholarship applied for. Applicants are encouraged to apply for as many awards as they are eligible to increase the likelihood of receiving one or more awards.

Scholarships can be used for cost of attendance, direct education expenses, including tuition, books, and/or other school-related fees.

If you receive an award, be sure to complete your scholarship acceptance form (online portal). Scholarship awards are paid directly to the academic institution by the end of August.

Jeffrey A. Trail Memorial Fund

Created in memory of Lt. Jeffrey A. Trail in honor of his military service and accomplishments, this Fund offers scholarships to DeKalb County residents who are graduating seniors and continuing their education immediately following high school graduation at an accredited two-year or four-year college or university studying aviation technology (a.k.a. professional flight or similar degree) for pilot training only; or at an independent certified flight training program working toward flight/pilot certifications.