Best Quality of Life Grants in Louisiana

Rotary Club of Gulfport Scholarship Endowment Fund

The Rotary Club of Gulfport Scholarship Endowment Fund is funded by the Rotary Club of Gulfport and was established in February 1997 for the purpose of providing scholarship assistance to graduating seniors of Gulfport High School, St. Patrick Catholic High School, West Harrison High School and Harrison Central High School in recognition of their academic accomplishments. Applicants must be a resident of the city of Gulfport.

The National Ataxia Foundation (NAF) offers a Pre-doctoral Fellowship to Promote Diversity in Ataxia Research, a competitive, non-renewable award aimed at enhancing the training of students in health professional programs. This fellowship provides partial funding of $50,000 over two years for research related to ataxia. Applicants must identify as underrepresented minorities and aim for careers in research or clinical science. The fellowship promotes diversity and supports innovative research in the field.

The Stephen Hales Prize, established in 1927 by the American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB), honors the Reverend Stephen Hales for his groundbreaking contributions to plant biology, particularly noted in his 1727 work, Vegetable Staticks. This prestigious award is given annually to an ASPB member who has made significant contributions to the field. The recipient is invited to present their work at the Society's annual meeting, fostering engagement within the plant science community.

About the Foundation

Our Mission

Beyond Batten Disease Foundation was established to eradicate juvenile Batten disease by raising awareness and funds to accelerate research for a treatment or cure.

About Funding

BBDF is dedicated to collaboratively developing, funding, and managing fundamental, preclinical, IND-enabling, translational and clinical research to improve the lives of children and young adults with CLN3 disease. Since 2008, BBDF has been the largest funder of juvenile Batten (CLN3) disease research, ranging from basic discovery research to translation into therapies. To inform our research initiatives, BBDF gathers information from one-on-one meetings, broad group discussions, scientific peer-reviewed publications, conference proceedings, drug pipelines, and tailored merit reviews into the foundation’s decision-making processes. Input comes from across the Research and Development spectrum including academia, biotechnology, the pharmaceutical sector, and clinicians, caregivers, and patients.

Our research funding decisions are based on these research objectives:

1) Supporting basic research to discover new mechanisms of disease, targets, and treatments

2) Supporting projects which facilitate execution of clinical trials such as expanding patient registries

3) Identifying biomarkers and other innovative clinical endpoints

4) Supporting projects that de-risks pharmaceutical investments in Batten disease

Foundation-Directed Research

The largest portion of the foundation’s portfolio is directed research. The foundation fills gaps in juvenile Batten disease research by funding high-impact projects and breakthrough technologies that will lead to disease mitigation and cure.

BBDF’s Principal Scientist regularly interacts with leaders in research and development across the entire therapeutic pipeline for Batten, as well as for adult forms of neurodegeneration (e.g., Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease), and other related rare genetic diseases. To supplement this dialogue, BBDF creates specialty boards and steering committees to lead the development of its projects. A specialty board typically comprises ~200 years of combined experience specific to the proposed activity.

Investor-Initiated Research (Applying for a research grant)

In addition to directed research, BBDF accepts and awards research proposals. Because great ideas do not follow a schedule, we do this on a rolling submission basis. All budgets are carefully reviewed along with the proposed body of work. Applicants may be asked to revise their budgets and/or allow BBDF to share a summary of the proposal with other funders for the purpose of gathering additional support. Sometimes, the foundation will offer the applicant additional funding to incorporate additional expertise or methods into his or her plan.

The Transthyretin Cardiac Amyloidosis Fellowship, supported by Pfizer, Inc., aims to enhance training for healthcare professionals in recognizing and managing ATTR cardiac amyloidosis. This competitive program focuses on clinical practice, research, and education, fostering a deeper understanding of the condition. It specifically targets fellowship programs for Cardiologists and Advanced Practice Providers in Heart Failure, ensuring a strong emphasis on advancing knowledge and care in this critical area of cardiology.

Rotary Club of Biloxi Scholarship Endowment Fund

The Rotary Club of Biloxi Scholarship Endowment Fund was established in June 1999. This scholarship is funded by the Rotary Club of Biloxi for the purpose of providing scholarship assistance to a graduating senior of Biloxi High School, St. Patrick Catholic High School, D’Iberville High School, or the Mississippi School of Math and Science, or a homeschool senior student registered with the County Attendance Office and whose parent or legal guardian resides in Biloxi.

The ACI Presidents' Fellowship, offered by the ACI Foundation, supports graduate students in construction, design, education, or materials. Awardees receive a $10,000 stipend for educational expenses, recognition in industry publications, and travel support for two conventions. This fellowship emphasizes mentorship and professional development, ensuring that recipients are well-prepared for their future careers. International students are eligible, provided they study in the U.S., Canada, or Mexico, and no internship is required.

The ACI Foundation offers the Robert F. Mast Memorial Fellowship for graduate students in structural engineering, focusing on reinforced concrete design. This prestigious fellowship includes a $10,000 educational stipend, recognition in Concrete International magazine, coverage of travel expenses to ACI conventions, and mentorship opportunities. International students enrolled in institutions in the U.S., Canada, or Mexico are eligible, provided they demonstrate English proficiency. The fellowship aims to support the next generation of leaders in the concrete industry.

The S.P. Shah Fellowship, offered by the ACI Foundation, supports PhD students focused on concrete materials with a $10,000 stipend for educational expenses. Recipients gain recognition in Concrete International magazine, mentorship, and coverage for travel to ACI conventions. The fellowship encourages international students attending institutions in the U.S., Canada, or Mexico, and requires no internship. Finalists must attend an interview at the Spring ACI Convention, making this an excellent opportunity for aspiring leaders in the concrete industry.

The ACI Foundation Fellowship supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in the concrete industry. Annually, ten fellowships are awarded, each providing a $10,000 educational stipend for tuition and related expenses. Recipients also receive recognition in Concrete International magazine, travel support for ACI conventions, and mentorship opportunities. Students from U.S., Canada, or Mexico can apply, and proficiency in English is required. The fellowship aims to foster the next generation of leaders in concrete innovation.

The ACI Foundation Concrete Materials Fellowship supports students pursuing careers in concrete materials, providing a $10,000 educational stipend for tuition and related expenses. Open to undergraduate and graduate students, this fellowship emphasizes innovation in concrete applications for new construction and repairs. Recipients gain industry recognition and mentorship, and are encouraged to complete internships. With a commitment to fostering future leaders, the fellowship promotes personal development and career readiness in the concrete industry.

The Charles Pankow Student Fellowship, offered by the ACI Foundation, supports undergraduate and graduate students in concrete-related studies. Awardees receive a $10,000 educational stipend, recognition in Concrete International, and travel expenses for ACI conventions. To qualify, students must complete an internship in a construction environment before the award year. This fellowship not only fosters educational growth but also connects students with industry mentors, preparing them for successful careers in the concrete industry.

The Don Marks Memorial Fellowship, managed by the ACI Foundation, offers $10,000 to undergraduate and graduate students interested in a hands-on career in concrete construction. Recipients receive educational stipends, recognition in industry publications, and support for travel to ACI conventions. This fellowship emphasizes practical experience without the need for internships, aiming to enhance the educational journey of students passionate about concrete and construction.

The Nicholas F. Maloof, Jr. GA Chapter ACI Fellowship, offered by the ACI Foundation, supports graduate and undergraduate students pursuing degrees related to the concrete industry, focusing on construction or building material sciences. Eligible candidates must have an endorsement from a Georgia Chapter ACI member and describe their ties to Georgia in their application. The fellowship provides a $10,000 educational stipend, recognition in publications, and travel support for ACI conventions, fostering the next generation of industry leaders.

The Ronald G. Burg Leadership Fellowship, offered by the ACI Foundation, supports graduate and undergraduate students in concrete-related programs. Established in honor of Ron G. Burg's contributions to the concrete industry, it provides a $10,000 educational stipend, recognition in Concrete International magazine, travel expenses for two ACI conventions, and mentorship. International students attending institutions in the U.S., Canada, or Mexico are eligible, with a focus on developing future leaders in the concrete field.

The ACI Foundation Concrete Practitioner Fellowship supports undergraduate students pursuing careers in construction or design. Recipients receive a $10,000 educational stipend, recognition in industry publications, and mentorship opportunities. The fellowship emphasizes innovation and problem-solving skills, preparing students for future careers. International students attending institutions in the U.S., Canada, or Mexico are eligible. The program aims to bolster the concrete industry's future by equipping aspiring professionals with essential skills and experiences.

The ACI Foundation Future Concrete Industry Leader Fellowship provides $10,000 to undergraduate students demonstrating leadership potential in the concrete industry. Recipients are recognized in Concrete International magazine and matched with industry mentors. The fellowship emphasizes self-motivation, integrity, and collaboration, with no internship requirement. Students must attend a U.S., Canadian, or Mexican institution and submit a report detailing the fellowship's impact on their career preparation. This initiative supports the next generation of concrete industry leaders.

The Digitizing Hidden Collections: Amplifying Unheard Voices Program, administered by CLIR, aims to digitize rare and unique content from diverse communities in the US and Canada. Launched in 2021, this initiative focuses on materials that highlight the histories of underrepresented groups, including people of color and marginalized communities. The program promotes public knowledge, broad representation, authentic partnerships, sustainable infrastructures, and community-centered access, providing funding between $50,000 and $300,000 to eligible organizations.

The Robert Holland Jr. Award honors senior scientists with diverse backgrounds who demonstrate excellence in research and teaching in Chemistry, Physics, and Astronomy. Recipients are invited to join the Cottrell Scholar community, fostering creativity and inclusivity. The award includes a $5,000 cash prize and promotes the contributions of underrepresented scholars. Candidates are evaluated on their mentoring, leadership in diversity initiatives, and potential impact on the academic community. This prestigious award is a key initiative by the Research Corporation.

Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation

The Foundation was established in September 1977 by Dr. Arnold O. and Mrs. Mabel Beckman to give back to the scientific community.

“The mission of the Foundation is to support leading edge research, in the fields of chemistry and life sciences, broadly interpreted, and particularly to foster the invention of methods, instruments, and materials that open up new avenues of research and application in these sciences and related disciplines. My preference is to favor young investigators, new ideas, and a variety of projects rather than fund large, established ones of long duration.”

Current Foundation Initiatives

Today, the Foundation continues according to the vision laid out by Dr. and Mrs. Beckman:

• Supporting Young Scientists: through our annual grant programs, focused on the most promising young scientists
• Community Support activities: that promote science education and excellence in our local community
• Streamlined operations: so that we don't "spend money to give money away"

"Beckman Family" Awardee Community Support Grants

The Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation’s "Beckman Family" Awardee Community Support Grants are open to all current and former Foundation grant awardees and Executive Committee members, specifically from the Beckman Scholars Program, Arnold O. Beckman Postdoctoral Fellowship, Beckman Young Investigator, and Instrument Grants programs.

As a current or former Beckman awardee or Executive Committee member, if you are actively engaged as a volunteer or Board member in a youth STEM or STEAM organization in your local area, you may apply to this program for funding for a particular project with that organization.

Funding Priorities

Projects should be aligned with the Foundation’s aim of “supporting young scientists today for tomorrow’s breakthrough discoveries” and oriented toward achieving positive outcomes in at least one of the Foundation’s current funding priorities:

• Engaging youth in hands-on science and math activities to encourage curiosity and student-driven exploration and learning.
• Using technology to engage youth in STEM/STEAM.
• Promoting the Beckmans’ legacy of technology innovation and leadership amongst youth.

In addition, the following considerations should be addressed in a proposal for funding:

• Where possible, the Foundation’s contribution to a project or activity should help to build capacity within the nonprofit organization to continue the activity beyond the one-time grant.
• The Awardee/Executive Committee member should discuss how the program will increase access to STEM/STEAM opportunities for the target audience.
• The costs associated with the request should relate to a stand-alone STEM/STEAM project, event, or activity and not part of a broader program, event, or target audience outside the Awardee’s or Executive Committee member's local area.
• Youth registration to participate in the STEM/STEAM project, event, or activity should be open to all in the local area, when possible.

Process & Timeline

Grant funds are directly issued to the organization by the Foundation and include for acknowledgement an indication that the gift was made because their volunteer or Board member is a Beckman Awardee or Executive Committee member.

Requests must be submitted by the Beckman Awardee on behalf of a U.S. nonprofit 501(c)(3), or equivalent, organization exclusively serving youth in their local community. As a matter of policy, the Foundation does not provide grants to non-U.S. organizations or institutions. This program defines the terms “youth” and “youths” as individual(s) 17 years of age or younger.

The Summer Research Education Experience Program (R25) is designed to enhance educational activities in biomedical and clinical research. This program aims to provide high school and undergraduate students, as well as science teachers, with immersive research experiences during summer breaks. Applications for standard and renewal submissions are due on March 18, 2025, and consecutive years thereafter, while AIDS-related applications are due on May 7 in the same years. Letters of Intent are encouraged.

Casting your Future – UAW Local 668 Scholarship

The International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) is one of the largest and most diverse unions in North America and is committed to improving the lives of working men and women around the globe. Here in Saginaw, Amalgamated UAW Local 668 proudly represents the hourly employees at the General Motors Saginaw Metal Casting Operations plant and the Knight Facilities Maintenance Group at the same facility.

Our commitment is unwavering to the education of the youth of this country. The success of our middle class is directly dependent on education which provides the skills required to compete in a global economy.

This funding opportunity aims to support innovative mechanistic research that enhances precision probiotic therapies. It encourages studies that identify person-specific features influencing probiotic responses, focusing on the variability among individuals. The goal is to develop strategies to improve probiotic clinical outcomes by understanding the biological patterns linked to probiotic effectiveness. Applications should demonstrate rigorous mechanistic studies and preliminary data supporting the correlation between host biology and probiotic response.

The Salary Assistance Grant for Japanese-Language Courses, administered by the Japan Foundation, Los Angeles, supports U.S. non-profit educational institutions and Japanese heritage language schools facing financial difficulties. Grants cover a portion of the salary and benefits of Japanese language instructors, up to $30,000 per year. Institutions can apply for one or two years of funding, with priority given to new programs and the maintenance of existing programs. Applications must detail cost-sharing plans.

Daniel Jon Thurlow Memorial Scholarship

Two scholarships will be presented per year, each being renewable for one additional year on a competitive basis. It is also our hope that recipients of this particular scholarship will be especially diligent in using this money to help create a better life for themselves and their family. Thus, Danny’s untimely passing will ultimately contribute to making this world a better place, one family at a time.   

The NIH HEAL Initiative PainCare Clinician Training Program (PCTP) offers Mentored Clinical Scientist Development Awards (K08) to nurture new independent investigators. This program is pivotal in providing early-career researchers with the necessary NIH support to establish their research programs in pain management. Key deadlines for applications span from October 2024 to June 2027, including provisions for renewals and resubmissions, ensuring ongoing support for innovative research in this critical area.

The NIH HEAL Initiative PainCare Clinician Training Program (PCTP) aims to develop a new generation of independent investigators in patient-oriented research focused on pain management. This K23 award provides essential funding to support early-career researchers, enabling them to establish independent research programs aligned with the NIH HEAL Initiative. Key application deadlines span from October 2024 to June 2027, ensuring opportunities for renewals and resubmissions. This program is vital for advancing pain management research.