Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in Maine

The Professional Development Scholarship, offered by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, supports educators in enhancing their expertise in history, number theory, or discrete mathematics. This scholarship aids in completing coursework, developing classroom activities, and delivering professional presentations. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of three years of teaching experience and currently teach mathematics at the 6-12 grade levels. Projects must be completed by August 31 of the following year.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Janine and Sidney Adams, Jr., Aviation Careers Scholarship Fund

The Janine and Sidney Adams, Jr. Aviation Careers Scholarship Fund was established by Janine “Jan” Adams in memorial tribute to her loving husband of 26 years, Sidney “Sid” Adams, Jr. Jan stated that there were three areas of special interest to Sid, economic development, education, and aviation. Establishing this fund honors all three of these areas of special interest. Giving back to his community was paramount to Sid. You could find Sid’s hand on many committees and projects promoting his beloved community, receiving numerous awards and recognition along the way. He was a founding member of Battle Creek Unlimited, serving on its Board for over 25 years, many of those years as chair.

Sid valued education. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Alcorn State University, taught at Western Michigan University and was a life learner never missing an opportunity to take a class, seminar, or workshop. He established a summer aviation camp introducing area youth to careers in aviation. At the advent of the personal computer, Sid jumped in and built his first computer. He then worked with the Kellogg Company on a project that donated to area schools and non-profits over 4,000 laptops and computers that he refurbished with the help of students from the Computer Networking classes at the Calhoun Area Career Center. He worked with these students teaching them software and hardware skills. Aviation was a huge part of Sid’s life. He earned his first set of wings serving as a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division, U.S. Army. At the age of 46, he became a private pilot purchasing his beloved Cessna Cardinal soon achieving his instrument certification. He joined the Civil Patrol, where he served as a first Lieutenant. Sid was appointed to the Michigan Aeronautics Commission and served 11 years, 2 years as Commission Vice Chair and 3 years as Chair. He was inducted into the Michigan Aviation Hall of Fame in 2023. His impact on our community was immeasurable. Jan, a longtime educator with Battle Creek Public Schools, met Sid in his pursuit of giving computers away to youth. Sid’s persistence paved the way for their union, and the rest, “as they say,” is history!

The NIDDK Inflammatory Bowel Disease Genetics Consortium (IBDGC) Data Coordinating Center aims to enhance understanding of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by coordinating extensive genetic research. By leveraging diverse patient cohorts and advanced data science techniques, the center seeks to identify genetic risk factors, develop predictive biomarkers, and improve IBD patient management. This initiative will facilitate collaboration among various research centers and ensure efficient data collection and sharing to foster advancements in precision medicine for IBD.

The Opening Gates for Prospective Teachers Grant, established by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, aims to honor Dr. James Gates by funding electronic student memberships for prospective mathematics teachers from PreK-12. This initiative supports the council's mission to enhance mathematics education by providing resources for future educators. Eligible applicants include leaders of teacher preparation programs who are NCTM members and actively involved in certifying teacher candidates in mathematics or related fields.

The Shenoy Undergraduate Research Fellowship in Neuroscience (SURFiN) by the Simons Foundation aims to engage undergraduate students from underrepresented backgrounds in neuroscience research. The program offers paid research assistantships at various labs across the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Selected fellows will gain hands-on experience and mentorship during the 2024-2025 academic year, fostering diversity and innovation in scientific research. This initiative supports students in their academic journey while promoting inclusivity in the scientific community.

The CDC's initiative focuses on developing clinical decision support (CDS) tools for cancer screening and management, specifically for cervical, breast, and colorectal cancers. The project aims to enhance guideline-concordant screening and improve management processes through rigorous implementation and evaluation within large health systems. By integrating these tools into electronic health records, the initiative seeks to support clinicians in making evidence-based decisions at the point of care, ultimately improving patient outcomes in cancer care.

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.

Danny McCarty Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Family of Danny McCarty, who established the Danny McCarty Memorial Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Mason County. Deb Del Zoppo and her family established a scholarship in memory of her nephew, Danny McCarty, after he passed away at the age of 26 in a motorcycle accident in Colorado. Danny was involved in the construction trades, so the focus of the two-year scholarship ($500 each year) is to support students who are going into that field of study.

The Fordney Foundation Grant supports talented individuals in dance, aiming to foster professional careers and enhance community engagement in dance sports. Established in 2002, the foundation offers financial assistance to young dancers (ages 6-25) and promotes ballroom dancing across diverse ethnic backgrounds. Its DanceStart Program aids families in supporting their children's dance education at competitive levels, emphasizing the importance of physical conditioning and personal expression through this art form.

The Johns Hopkins Merkin Peripheral Neuropathy and Nerve Regeneration Center offers Seed Grants for innovative research on peripheral neuropathy and nerve regeneration. These grants support high-risk, high-reward pilot projects addressing axon degeneration and Schwann cell dysfunction. Researchers may apply for funding of up to $75,000 per year for one or two years. The initiative aims to foster novel ideas and successful transitions to external funding, enhancing scientific understanding and therapeutic development.

The Mearl K. Gable II Memorial Grant, established by the Handweavers Guild of America, Inc., supports fiber artists by providing grants of $100 or more for non-accredited programs. Since 2000, the grant honors Mearl K. Gable II and promotes educational opportunities for all skill levels. Recipients must report their findings within six months, ensuring accountability and continued support for the fiber arts community.

The Dr. Esther Wilkins Scholarship, offered by the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA), supports students pursuing advanced degrees in dental hygiene education. Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited program and have completed at least one year of study. The scholarship awards $2,000 annually and emphasizes the importance of professional membership in ADHA. This initiative fosters career development and enhances educational opportunities for future dental hygiene educators.

The Marion B. Sewer Distinguished Scholarship for Undergraduates provides $2,000 to support students pursuing biochemistry and molecular biology, especially those from diverse backgrounds. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or residents, enrolled full-time in accredited institutions, and members of ASBMB. This scholarship aims to enhance diversity in the biomedical workforce and encourage ongoing engagement in scientific activities. Applications are open to all qualified candidates, with a focus on underrepresented groups.

The AO North America VET Preceptorships Program offers surgical residents from the American College of Veterinary Surgeons the chance to enhance their skills in Veterinary Trauma and Orthopedics through a structured training experience. Participants can receive up to four weeks of advanced training in AO techniques at designated surgical centers, with funding available for housing and travel expenses, totaling up to $2,750. This initiative aims to foster professional development and improve patient care outcomes.

The Crest Oral-B Laboratories Dental Hygiene Scholarships, sponsored by Procter & Gamble, support students enrolled in accredited dental hygiene programs in the U.S. These scholarships aim to promote professional excellence and quality research in dental hygiene. Applicants should have completed at least one year of their curriculum and be a member of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA). Award amounts are typically $1,000, with the number of awards varying annually.

The Karl A. Bickel and Madira Bickel Journalistic Scholarship Fund supports journalism education by providing grants to accredited colleges and universities with journalism programs. Established from Karl A. Bickel's Last Will and Testament, the fund aims to assist deserving students in their pursuit of journalism, ensuring they receive the necessary financial backing to succeed in their studies and future careers.

The NIH Mentored Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award (K23) is designed to support the career development of individuals with clinical doctoral degrees committed to patient-oriented research. Key deadlines for standard applications include June 12, October 12, and February 12 from 2024 to 2027. Renewal and AIDS-related grant applications also have specific deadlines. This initiative aims to enhance research focused on improving patient care.

The Ms. Molly Foundation provides essential support for domestic violence victims through the Local Shelter/Agency Support Grant. Established in 1996, the foundation aims to raise awareness and assist local agencies committed to helping victims find safety and empowerment. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit shelters that partner with Molly Maid franchises. By addressing the cycle of violence, the foundation strives to create healthier family environments and restore hope to those affected.

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

Sailor Classic Athletic Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Don Trygstad, who established the Sailor Classic Athletic Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Two men, with a commitment to Mona Shores and to athletes who learn and play on their athletic fields, started the Sailor Classic over a decade ago to raise money for items needed, that fall outside the Athletic Department's budget. In addition, the Classic gives the community an opportunity to celebrate all that the school does for kids. Most importantly, the Sailor Classic provides an annual scholarship to one male and one female student-athlete who are outstanding on the field, in the classroom, and in need of financial support.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Larry Inman Skilled Trades Scholarship Fund

The Larry Inman Skilled Trades Scholarship Fund has been established to provide scholarships to Harper Creek Community Schools graduating seniors pursing degrees and future employment in the skilled trades. Larry Inman was a Harper Creek High School, class of 1967 graduate. He excelled in many sports, but was an exceptional baseball player. After high school Larry attended Kellogg Community College pursuing a career in Graphic Arts before serving in the United States Army during the Vietnam Conflict. Larry fought for his country and was awarded many medals including the Bronze Star. He returned to Battle Creek and retired from the Kellogg Company after 35 years of dedicated employment. Larry was a very kind and generous person who cared about the education of local youth.

Anthony Wunderle Memorial Scholarship Fund

Established by Lori and Greg Wunderle in memory of their son Anthony who had childhood leukemia. This scholarship is to provide educational opportunities for a higher education, accredited trade, or apprenticeship program for any cancer survivor or family member of a cancer patient, living or deceased.

Amount:

• Varies

Number of awards:

• Varies

Renewal:

• No

The James Madison Graduate Fellowship supports U.S. citizens pursuing master's degrees focused on the Constitution, enhancing their constitutional knowledge for teaching. Fellows are required to teach American history, government, or civics at the secondary level for one year per funding year. Financially, the fellowship awards up to $24,000, covering tuition and fees, and must be repaid if fellowship conditions are unmet. This program ensures future educators embody constitutional principles in their teaching.

The Implementation Awards by PCORI aim to fund projects that translate patient-centered research into real-world practices. With budgets up to $2.5 million for implementation projects lasting up to 48 months, applicants must present a clear plan for broad evidence uptake. Additionally, those proposing implementation projects need an accepted Draft Final Research Report related to their original PCORI-funded research to qualify for funding.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Helen Montgomery Musician Fund

The purpose of this fund is to support local minority artists that need assistance in order to pursue musical endeavors/expand their talent through programs associated with schools, church and nonprofit entities with a focus on music.

GCEF Scholarship Fund

Established by the Gay Community Endowment Fund to provide scholarships for LGBTQ+ and allied students.

Amount:

• Varies

Number of awards:

• Varies

Renewal:

• Must maintain good academic status and reapply annually by submission of a new application.

The Rural Health Fellows Leadership Program, offered by the National Rural Health Association (NRHA), is an intensive yearlong initiative aimed at cultivating a diverse network of rural health leaders. Selected participants engage in leadership training, policy advocacy, and collaborative projects. The program includes monthly virtual sessions, in-person meetings at key conferences, and opportunities for financial support, thereby empowering fellows to make a significant impact on rural healthcare.

The US Flu Vaccine Effectiveness (VE) Network aims to enhance the effectiveness of vaccines against influenza and other respiratory pathogens, which are significant contributors to morbidity and mortality. This funding opportunity invites proposals for surveillance studies, including annual VE assessments, acute respiratory illness tracking, household transmission research, and immunogenicity studies. Applicants can apply for either Component A or B, with the option to include additional components based on their primary selection.

The PLTW Launch program, in collaboration with Huber, offers grants to public schools seeking to initiate or expand their PLTW offerings for the 2026-2027 academic year. Schools can utilize the $5,000 grant to enhance their curriculum by adding new modules, increasing student participation, or training more teachers. Eligible districts span across several states, including Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, and Texas, providing opportunities for a diverse range of schools to benefit from this initiative.