Best Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Louisiana

The Donald & Ruby Branson Foundation Grant aims to promote environmental, educational, and social progress in America. Established by the Branson family, it seeks to instill values of community involvement and charitable responsibility in future generations. The foundation primarily supports tax-exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) and emphasizes the importance of education and environmental stewardship, ensuring a cleaner and more attractive world for all.

Face the Future Scholarship

At Bubble, we believe the next generation of builders, creators, and changemakers deserves support.

The Face the Future Scholarship provides financial awards to students who embody our core values of authenticity, creativity, innovation, and community impact as they pursue their academic goals.

In 2026, we're awarding 20 scholarships totaling $55,000 to students across the U.S., UK, and Canada.

One recipient will also earn a Spring 2027 internship at Bubble's New York City headquarters.

The William Brewster Snow Award, presented by the AEESP Foundation, honors outstanding environmental engineering graduate students. This annual award recognizes significant achievements in academic or employment projects, offering a plaque and a $250 cash prize. Eligible candidates must either be enrolled in or have recently completed a relevant Master's program. Evaluation criteria include academic performance, community service, and engineering accomplishments, ensuring that deserving students are acknowledged for their contributions to environmental engineering.

NEXT for AUTISM's grants program empowers autistic adults by funding innovative initiatives across work, home, social engagement, and health & well-being. With over 380 funded projects nationwide, the program supports 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. First-time grantees can apply for up to $10,000, while returning grantees may request up to $25,000. The program emphasizes community-based solutions and aims to enhance the quality of life for autistic individuals.

The American Fisheries Society…

• Includes 8,000+ members from around the world, including fisheries managers, biologists, professors, ecologists, aquaculturists, economists, engineers, geneticists, and social scientists
• Promotes scientific research and sustainable management of fisheries resources
• Publishes five of the world’s leading fish journals, and many renowned books
• Organizes scientific meetings where new results are reported and discussed
• Encourages comprehensive education and professional development for fisheries professionals

AFS Awards

Each year, AFS presents awards to its members and partners for unique contributions that directly or indirectly impact fisheries science. Each year there is a call for award nominations recognizing professional excellence and/or outstanding contributions to conservation, education, and service.

Award of Excellence

The Society’s highest award for scientific achievement is presented to a living AFS member for original and/or outstanding contributions to fisheries and aquatic biology. 

The Radiation Oncology Institute (ROI) Innovation Awards, offered by the American Society for Radiation Oncology, aim to accelerate innovative ideas in radiation therapy. Currently accepting applications for the 2026 awards, the program focuses on optimizing the combination of radiation therapy and immunotherapy to enhance cancer treatment outcomes. By supporting practical research, ROI strives to transform clinical practices and improve patient care in the fight against cancer.

Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida connects people who care with causes that matter. Since 1964, we have served the citizens of Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Clay, and Putnam counties through a range of charitable and civic activities, while helping individual donors achieve their philanthropic goals. We believe in Giving Back. Forever Forward.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous donors, The Community Foundation offers several scholarships each year that benefit students in Northeast Florida who are seeking post-secondary degrees.

Bernie G. Yvon Memorial Fund Scholarship

For High School Seniors & College Students in The Theatre/Performing Arts

The purpose of the fund is to perpetuate the legacy of Bernie G. Yvon by supporting students pursuing study in the Theatre/Performing Arts with need-based scholarships. In this tenth year (2026), amounts up to $2000 each will be available from contributions to the fund via The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida. In selecting the successful candidate(s), the review committee will consider the following:

• Knowledge of Bernie G. Yvon
• Theatre/Performing Arts potential and past experiences
• Financial need
• Academic record
• Two letters of recommendation
• GPA

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Ludington High School Class of '59 Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Ludington High School Class of '59. This scholarship is for Ludington High School graduating seniors with a proven good work ethic.

The Bar Success Intervention Grant Program, funded by AccessLex Institute, aims to enhance bar exam passage rates for at-risk law students and graduates. With grants ranging from $150,000 to $300,000 for programs lasting 12 to 24 months, the initiative seeks data-driven solutions that are scalable and replicable. Eligible applicants include U.S. nonprofit organizations and law schools. Programs should feature clear goals, measurable objectives, and a robust evaluation plan to ensure effectiveness and sustainability.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Ludington Education Association Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Ludington Area School District, which established the Ludington Education Association Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Mason County. This fund provides scholarships to graduating seniors of Ludington High School.

The Brees Dream Foundation Grant aims to enhance the lives of cancer patients while providing essential care, education, and opportunities for children and families in need. With the support of generous donors and partners, the Foundation is dedicated to advancing cancer research and offering vital resources to those facing challenges. This commitment reflects a profound dedication to improving quality of life and fostering hope in communities.

American Headache Society

The American Headache Society (AHS) is a professional society of healthcare providers dedicated to the study and treatment of headache and face pain. The Mission of the AHS is to improve the lives of people impacted by migraine and other headache disorders. AHS advocates for those impacted by headache and the headache field, to meet our core objectives. AHS provides educational courses, scientific meetings, a journal, research support, career development opportunities, Special Interest Groups, advocacy training, and a professional community. The AHS strives to meet its objectives while fostering an inclusive sense of belonging and community.

Headache & Migraine Competitive Grant Program

The Headache & Migraine Competitive Grant Program stands at the forefront of advancing headache medicine by funding groundbreaking quality improvement initiatives. This highly competitive grant program, offered through the collaboration between the American Headache Society and Pfizer, supports projects that have the potential to reshape the field by creating widely applicable tools and driving measurable improvements in patient care. 

Adult Population  RFP (Quality Improvement Solutions for the Diagnosis and Management of Migraine and Headache Disorder)

Seeking projects that drive meaningful impact in headache care through advancements in safety, clinical effectiveness, timely diagnosis, and equitable, patient-centered treatment. Submissions should feature bold, practical solutions in primary care and non-headache specialty settings, supporting adult populations with scalable, real-world innovations. 

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Joe Lancour Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the family of Joe Lancour, who established the Joe Lancour Memorial Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

Joe Lancour served our country in Afghanistan where he lost his life. Joe was active in sports and graduated in 2004 from Ludington High School. He was artistic in many ways and loved to cook. His mother Starla Owens championed this scholarship fund to honor his memory.

American Headache Society

The American Headache Society (AHS) is a professional society of healthcare providers dedicated to the study and treatment of headache and face pain. The Mission of the AHS is to improve the lives of people impacted by migraine and other headache disorders. AHS advocates for those impacted by headache and the headache field, to meet our core objectives. AHS provides educational courses, scientific meetings, a journal, research support, career development opportunities, Special Interest Groups, advocacy training, and a professional community. The AHS strives to meet its objectives while fostering an inclusive sense of belonging and community.

AHS Investigator-Initiated Research Awards

Empowering Innovation in Headache Research

The American Headache Society (AHS) Investigator-Initiated Research Awards support AHS members conducting pre-clinical and clinical research in headache and migraine. With a focus on early-career investigators, the program funds investigator-driven projects that advance scientific understanding and improve patient care.

Projects should contribute to the core goal of the AHS – improving the lives of people impacted by migraine and other headache disorders. 

Funding may be used for:

• Investigator effort (limited to 25% of the budget for PI salary support).
• Experimental costs, data collection, supplies, and statistical analysis.
• Other research-related expenses as appropriately justifie

The Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN) aims to enhance diagnostic excellence through multiple clinical Networks of Diagnostic Excellence (NODEs). These NODEs will operate as regional networks, leveraging partnerships with various healthcare facilities to provide participant-centered evaluations for complex conditions. They will also engage in research and training to improve diagnostic tools and strategies. This initiative encourages collaboration and aims to improve the overall experience and access for participants in need of specialized care.

The Alcon Foundation focuses on enhancing global eye health through charitable monetary donations to 501(c)(3) organizations. Grants aim to support programs that improve access to quality eye care and education, fostering community development. Eligible applicants must demonstrate high-quality services, well-defined goals, and the ability to report outcomes. The foundation does not fund organizations that discriminate or are not 501(c)(3) compliant, ensuring that resources are directed towards impactful initiatives.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Lewis G. and Margaret R. Curtis Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Lewis and Margaret, who established the Lewis G. and Margaret R. Curtis Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Margaret Curtis wished to establish two scholarships; one for females pursuing careers in nursing or health care careers and the other for a male pursuing a vocational, technical or trade career scholarship. Mrs. Curtis, a nurse in the area, provided for this fund in her will in memory of her husband and herself. She stated that the income be used to award scholarships in two fields, nursing and vocational training.

The Carolyn Ann Weiner Scholarship, established by the Muskingum County Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Carrie Weiner, a brave young woman who faced significant health challenges. This scholarship supports college-bound seniors who have overcome extraordinary obstacles, reflecting Carrie's dedication to education. Candidates are nominated by mentors who highlight their resilience and character. The scholarship aims to empower students pursuing their dreams despite adversity, ensuring that Carrie's inspiring story continues to impact future generations.

The NLSOT Dr. Hillary M. Carpenter, III NLSOT Merit Award honors individuals for their outstanding contributions to the Northland Society of Toxicology and the field of toxicology. It is awarded annually to recognize distinguished service, with the possibility of consideration in subsequent years if no award is granted. Awardees receive a plaque and are encouraged to attend the fall meeting where they are formally recognized, with waived registration fees.

The Hasting Innovation Award for Interstitial Lung Disease, offered by the American Lung Association, provides $75,000 annually for up to two years to support early-career researchers. This award targets investigators with proven excellence and a track record of accomplishment, aiming to advance lung disease science. Successful candidates must have held a K or R type award within the last three to five years, fostering innovation and discovery in lung health.

The Pocket Nurse Scholarship Fund, established by Pocket Nurse at The Pittsburgh Foundation, provides financial assistance to students pursuing education in Allied Health, Nursing, and Nursing Faculty. This initiative highlights the Foundation's commitment to supporting local students, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, as they strive to achieve their academic and career goals. With a minimum GPA requirement of 3.5, the program aims to empower the next generation of healthcare professionals.

The National Scleroderma Foundation's New Investigator Grant aims to support emerging researchers dedicated to scleroderma studies. This three-year grant, totaling $200,000, encourages applicants with doctoral degrees and postdoctoral experience. Eligible candidates are invited to submit proposals that may lead to further research funding. The grant emphasizes innovative research approaches while providing essential financial support for early-career investigators. Note that the grant does not cover certain costs, ensuring focused investment in research advancement.

United Institute for Theatre Technology

The United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) connects performing arts design and technology communities to ensure a vibrant dialog among practitioners, educators, and students.

Driven by our core values of inclusion, excellence, and responsibility, we provide mentorship programs, exhibit opportunities, grant funding, awards, and other opportunities for our members and for the entertainment industry. 

Emerging Digital Design Showcase

USITT is seeking expressions of interest from students and early-career creatives to participate in the Emerging Digital Design Showcase during the USITT26 Annual Conference & Stage Expo. Presented on the main USITT Awards Stage, this curated showcase highlights the next generation of digital and graphic designers working in performance, live events, and immersive environments.

This year’s showcase is inspired by the ocean, coastal environments, and the world beneath the surface — reflecting both the Long Beach location and the ideas of depth, motion, and interconnectedness inherent in live performance. Designers are encouraged to interpret the theme broadly rather than literally.

This showcase is not a competition; rather, it is intended as a platform for visibility, mentorship, and the celebration of emerging voices within the USITT community.

The Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance (MOCA) is offering grants for research focused on the early detection of ovarian cancer. With funding amounts of either $50,000 or $100,000 available, these grants support projects aimed at enhancing prevention strategies. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based researchers outside of Minnesota, and the awards will be distributed in November 2025. This initiative aims to foster innovative approaches to combat ovarian cancer effectively.

The Professional Nurses of Southwestern PA Scholarship Fund, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation, supports nursing education for students in nine counties of southwestern Pennsylvania. This scholarship aims to assist those pursuing a Pre-Licensure RN, BSN, Master's, PhD, or DNP programs. Eligible applicants must have completed one semester in a nursing program and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. The fund continues the legacy of the Pennsylvania State Nurses Association, promoting leadership and service in nursing.

The Pittsburgh Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four–year universities, graduate schools, and career/technical schools.

Pittsburgh ERG Scholarship Fund

The Pittsburgh ERG Scholarship formed by employees of Microsoft delivers on the mission of Microsoft’s local employee resource group to support diversity and inclusion. This scholarship enables high school students with disabilities and/or financial needs to go to college and pursue a career in technology. In addition, we hope to contribute to increasing the pool of people living with a disability enrolling in higher education and, in the long term, decrease the unemployment bias for this demographic. This scholarship will be awarded to promising high school seniors living in the city of Pittsburgh who plan to attend a vocational or academic college and have a financial need. The amount of this multi-year renewable scholarship is $12,000 payable over four years ($3,000 per year). (Immediate family members of Microsoft employees are not eligible for this scholarship.)

• Average Award: $12,000 over 4 years.
• Award Type: Multi-Year (up to 4 years). Recipients must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and enrollment in the stated major.

This funding opportunity aims to enhance the cancer surveillance workforce through education and support for certified Oncology Data Specialists. The initiative will improve the quality and completeness of cancer data collected by the National Program of Cancer Registries. By fostering collaboration and promoting the value of cancer surveillance data, this program seeks to empower public health actions, research, and policy-making, ensuring a robust response to current and future cancer-related challenges.