Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Maine

Napa Valley Community Foundation

There are more than 800 Community Foundations in the US, each devoted to a specific region. We operate independently, with a common goal in mind: to be a platform for local people who want to pay it forward. To deliver resources to effective charitable programs. And to make our communities stronger and more successful by doing these two things.

Among our peers, Napa Valley Community Foundation ranks first on several key measures of donor satisfaction and impact, according to a recent donor survey conducted by the Center for Effective Philanthropy. Our donors say that we deeply understand their interests, and deeply understand the needs of Napa Valley. That, in a nutshell, is our job.

Committed Scholarship

The Napa Valley Community Foundation Committed Scholarship benefits one graduating senior who attends a high school in Napa County, is the first person in their family to attend college, and who grew up in a household where English was not the first language spoken. Applicants must have a strong academic record coupled with demonstrated leadership qualities, extra-curricular activities, and heavy involvement in the community. They must also have a desire and a plan to return to the Napa Valley area to give back to the community after graduation. Recipients must attend a four-year college/university and will receive funding for up to four years of undergraduate study.

Scholarship award amount is renewable for up to four years. It will be based upon overall financial aid already received and any remaining funding gaps.

Napa Valley Community Foundation

There are more than 800 Community Foundations in the US, each devoted to a specific region. We operate independently, with a common goal in mind: to be a platform for local people who want to pay it forward. To deliver resources to effective charitable programs. And to make our communities stronger and more successful by doing these two things.

Among our peers, Napa Valley Community Foundation ranks first on several key measures of donor satisfaction and impact, according to a recent donor survey conducted by the Center for Effective Philanthropy. Our donors say that we deeply understand their interests, and deeply understand the needs of Napa Valley. That, in a nutshell, is our job.

Amy & Hank Stockton Scholarship

The Amy and Hank Stockton Scholarship benefits graduating high school seniors who attend public high schools in Napa County and will be pursuing post-secondary education in a trade, technical or vocational school, community college, or four-year college/university. Previous recipients of the scholarship are eligible to reapply; scholarship funding may not exceed 4 years of support.

Fred W. Homann Jr. Research and Education Scholarship

Scholarships awarded to Marshall area residents or former graduates pursuing higher education in the health sciences with preference given to applicants with a particular interest in research/preventative medicine. Applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA average in their previous year of education, whether it be high school or college, or postgraduate. Students who receive this scholarship are encouraged to apply for further support in subsequent years. 

"Slipperman” Music Scholarship in Memory of Timothy J. Gilles

The “Slipperman” Music Scholarship in Memory of Timothy J. Gilles recognizes the hard-working graduates of Herkimer and Oneida counties pursuing their secondary education in a music-related field.

Candidates are identified by Utica Dollars for Scholars.

Casey's Cash for Classrooms Grants support K-12 public and nonprofit private schools through funding for physical improvements, material needs, teacher support, and community engagement. In 2025, $900,000 was awarded across 80 grants, allowing schools to enhance their learning environments. With a commitment to community engagement, Casey's has donated $15 million since 2019, emphasizing their dedication to making life better for communities and guests. Grants range from $3,000 to $50,000, with funds required to be used within 12 months.

The Willis C. Helm Charitable Trust, established in 1954, focuses on supporting organizations that work on juvenile delinquency and the development of boys from broken homes. It provides annual grants averaging between $5,000 and $15,000, with a total giving of around $60,000 for five grants each year. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and preferably located in Minnesota. Applications are accepted year-round, with a deadline of March 31 for annual review.

The FY26 Breast Cancer Research Program's Clinical Research Extension Award aims to enhance breast cancer clinical studies by extending data collection and follow-up. This funding mechanism emphasizes the importance of patient participation and addresses challenges from early trial terminations. Notably, applications must include two breast cancer consumer advocates and can feature either a single Principal Investigator or a duo. This initiative seeks to improve outcomes through comprehensive data analysis and patient engagement.

The National Network of STI Clinical Prevention Training Centers (NNPTC) aims to enhance the education and training of clinicians and disease intervention professionals in STI patient care. This initiative focuses on improving the ability of healthcare providers and systems to effectively diagnose, manage, and counsel individuals at risk for STIs, ultimately reducing morbidity and enhancing public health outcomes on both local and national levels.

The INCLUDE Project aims to enhance the health and quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome by generating comprehensive genomic and multi-omics data. This initiative encourages applicants to submit samples to NIH-supported resources, facilitating the exploration of molecular mechanisms related to health conditions associated with Down syndrome. The data will be shared via the INCLUDE Data Hub, promoting collaboration within the research community, though no direct funding is available to applicants.

The Trails Capacity Program, previously known as the Trail Fund Grant, aims to enhance community capacity for trail maintenance, research, and stewardship training across the nation. The program focuses on supporting non-Forest Service Federal lands, as well as state and local areas, fostering inclusivity and improved user behavior. By collaborating with diverse trail partners, it seeks to ensure effective stewardship and sustainable trail management, ultimately promoting public access and enjoyment of America's natural landscapes.

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 Diversity FellowshipThe Community Diversity Fellowship is a unique opportunity for psychiatry residents from diverse backgrounds and residents who are committed to serving minority and vulnerable populations. The fellowship provides professional development, training, mentorship, and a field placement component (up to 15 hours per month) designed to add exponential impact in the delivery of culturally competent psychiatric care across hard to reach and traditionally underrepresented communities. These populations include—but are not limited to—American Indians/Native Alaskans, Asian Americans/Native Hawaiians/Native Pacific Islanders, Blacks/African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, LGBTQ, and religious minorities.Program Benefits:

• Attend one APA Annual Meeting
• Attend one Fellowship Forum
• Develop leadership skills in the field of psychiatry and advance understanding of the life experiences of racial ethnic minority communities
• Gain hands on experience through field placement in a traditional underrepresented community mental health setting (up to 15 hours per month)
• Gain an understanding of APA/APAF Governance through service on an APA Council, Committee, or APAF initiative 
• Cultivate a professional network with psychiatrists interested in minority mental health and services through exclusive events through engagements with APA leaders.
  • Establish relationships and peer-mentorship with a diverse group of resident fellows with similar career interests and goals

Vanguard Resident FellowshipThe American Psychiatric Association has participated in the Minority Fellowship Program (MFP) since 1973. The program goals are to advance the quality of mental and substance use disorder prevention and treatment services and improve mental health care outcomes for all. The program seeks to increase the number and quality of psychiatrists who teach, administer services, conduct research, and provide direct mental and/or substance use disorder services to our Nation’s communities, and to treat and serve populations with higher prevalence of behavioral health challenges and conditions more effectively.Program Benefits: 

• Funding to support your own innovative and creative Capstone Project
• Monthly virtual professional development sessions
• Gain access to employment opportunities through a virtual job fair
• Gain an understanding of gaps in mental health care through the LEAD Institute curriculum
• Receive mentorship from leaders in psychiatry through the Advocate & Protégé Program
• Attend the Learning Lab, Fall Mental Health Summit, and Spring Leadership Summit, with the goal of enhancing your leadership skills in psychiatry by advancing your understanding of mental health inequities
• Attend the APA Annual Meeting with the opportunity to present a poster or oral presentation of your Capstone Project
• Gain understanding of APA Governance through service on an APA Council, committee or work group
• Receive access to a lifetime network of psychiatrists
• Establish long term relationships with resident fellows with similar career interests and goals

The CDC has announced funding for FY 2027 to enhance state capacity in alcohol epidemiology and prevent excessive alcohol use through the NOFO CDC-RFA-DP-27-0072. This initiative aims to equip states with essential tools and knowledge for effective public health measures against excessive alcohol use, a major preventable cause of death in the U.S. The program will also provide expert technical assistance and training on effective prevention strategies over a 5-year performance period.

The Capacity Building for Global, Regional, and National Immunization Programs aims to enhance immunization efforts in key countries, focusing on the prevention and control of vaccine-preventable diseases like polio and measles. By strengthening immunization services and surveillance systems, the program will better address emerging health threats and reach under-immunized populations. Additionally, it will support sustainable practices through National Immunization Technical Advisory Groups and manage the National Stop Transmission of Polio program in Pakistan.

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) is inviting applications for the Alzheimer's Drug-Development Program (U01 Clinical Trial Optional). This initiative seeks to support pre-clinical and early-stage clinical development of innovative drug candidates aimed at preventing Alzheimer's disease or treating its symptoms. The program encourages collaboration among researchers and aims to enhance the therapeutic pipeline for AD through targeted approaches. This notice allows potential applicants time to prepare robust projects.

The Antoinette Lierman Medlin Scholarship, administered by the Geological Society of America, supports graduate students in coal science. It offers two awards: $2000 for laboratory research and $1500 for fieldwork. This scholarship aims to recognize and assist students in completing their research projects successfully. Contributions from personal and corporate sponsors help sustain this valuable fund, encouraging commitment to advancing knowledge in energy geology.

The Never Lose Hoop Fund, established by JC and Joni Hulls, provides grants to support families affected by cancer. The fund aims to enhance the quality of life for children and their families through shared experiences, such as family camps and outdoor activities. Grants are available for those currently battling cancer or who have lost an immediate family member to cancer within the last two years. This initiative helps families create lasting memories and find joy during difficult times.

The Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation, established in 1988, supports photography programs at museums and public institutions. It promotes photography's recognition alongside other art forms and contributes to HIV/AIDS medical research. Notably, it has funded major galleries and initiatives, donating significant collections to renowned museums. The Foundation aids curators in developing photography exhibitions and provides financial support for acquisitions, exhibitions, and publications, ensuring Mapplethorpe's artistic legacy endures.

The Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM) program aims to enhance maternal health outcomes by providing technical assistance across all U.S. states and territories. This initiative focuses on implementing best practices to improve safety during childbirth, ultimately saving lives. By supporting jurisdictions and birthing facilities involved in AIM, the program seeks to promote quality improvements in maternal health care, ensuring safer births and better health for mothers and infants.

The Civic Engagement Microgrant Grant Program, funded by Research!America, aims to enhance public engagement skills among early-career scientists. By providing financial support for innovative projects, this initiative encourages collaborations across various STEM disciplines. Grantees will develop essential skills in communication and policy-making to strengthen community ties and promote science as a national priority. This program addresses the critical need for scientists to connect with local communities and policymakers to ensure the relevance and impact of scientific research.

The National Fish Passage Program (NFPP) offers technical and financial support to restore aquatic connectivity for fish and other organisms. By improving infrastructure like culverts and bridges, the program enhances fish populations and ecosystem resilience, providing quality fishing experiences. Managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, NFPP collaborates with partners to implement strategic projects that align with conservation goals, ensuring biological diversity and effective use of scientific principles in project planning.

About

Chicken & Egg Films shapes a more equitable and just world with the catalytic power of documentary films by providing funding, mentorship and industry access to a global community of women and gender-expansive filmmakers. Founded in 2005 by Julie Parker Benello, Wendy Ettinger, and Judith Helfand, and helmed today by CEO Jenni Wolfson, our goal is to disrupt and dismantle barriers to filmmaking caused by gender bias.

Research & Development Grant

Now in its fourth year, the Research & Development Grant supports filmmakers from around the world who have directed at least one feature-length documentary and are in the research & development stage of their next feature-length film.

With continued grant-making support by Netflix, the Research & Development Grant supports directors to ideate and plan for their next feature-length film. Many filmmakers invest their personal resources into their films and face funding challenges when entering into the research & development stages of new projects. It is hard to secure funding for a new project without significant sample material, yet producing material without external funding can be almost impossible. To address this challenge, the Research & Development Grant provides financial support to directors during a filmmaking stage that is too often unpaid and unsupported. 

A total of $450,000 USD will be awarded in the following grant amounts:

• $10,000 USD grants for Research
• $20,000 USD grants for Development

The final number of Research Grants vs. Development Grants disbursed will be determined during the selection process, based on the characteristics and strength of the applicant pool for each category.

The purpose of the Research & Development Grant is to support projects at the early stages of their lifecycle. If you have already raised a significant amount of capital (over 35% of your film’s total budget) and have shot and/or edited a substantial amount of footage, you may not be competitive for this grant, unless you can demonstrate very specific needs for the project (such as previously overlooked research activity). 

We have separated the Research Grant from the Development Grant to allow early-stage projects to receive support without the need to submit all the deliverables required for projects in the development phase. 

We recognize that each documentary is unique and that processes for research and development, fundraising, and production can vary widely. The information provided here is not intended as strict eligibility criteria, but rather as general guidelines to help applicants understand the stage at which we aim to provide support for projects. 

The 2026 Chicken & Egg Films Research & Development Grant is generously supported by Netflix.

Council of Independent Colleges (CIC)Founded in 1956, the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) is an association of nonprofit independent colleges and universities, state-based councils, and higher education affiliates that works to support college and university leadership, advance institutional excellence, and enhance public understanding of independent higher education’s contributions to society.

CIC is the major national organization that focuses on providing services to leaders of independent colleges and universities and state-based councils. CIC offers conferences, seminars, publications, and other programs and services that help institutions improve educational quality, administrative and financial performance, student outcomes, and institutional visibility.NetVUE Grants for Fostering Leadership for Communities of FaithThis grant program provides funding for institutions that are working to augment their support for students who are considering possible callings to leadership roles in communities of faith.

Grant funds should be used to develop or extend programming for students, and/or professional development for faculty members and staff, with the goal of connecting students to local faith communities and supporting them as they explore and discern their callings. Initiatives may be developed within or across a variety of academic departments and campus offices, and should involve leaders of one or more faith communities near campus. NetVUE Grants for Fostering Leadership for Communities of Faith may be requested in amounts ranging up to $60,000 for use over two years to develop new programs, or to strengthen existing programs, that support students as they consider vocations of leadership for communities of faith.

The Domestic Violence Prevention grant aims to enhance access to forensic healthcare services for American Indian and Alaska Native victims of domestic violence and related issues. By fostering multidisciplinary partnerships, this initiative promotes trauma-informed care and improves victim support across IHS Areas. The focus is on developing comprehensive, culturally sensitive services that ensure timely interventions and coordinated responses to vulnerable populations, thereby enhancing overall victim well-being and safety.

Joseph G Markoly Foundation Inc

When Joseph Markoly originally established the foundation more than thirty years ago, its focus was on Alzheimer’s and heart disease support, funded through a number of the larger national disease-related organizations. Over time the focus has shifted to helping small to mid-size organizations in our local communities which support children and seniors in a variety of effective ways. 

Markoly Foundation was established in honor of Joseph G. Markoly, an entrepreneur and philanthropist who wanted to make a positive impact in people’s lives. Joseph’s family was affected directly by both Alzheimer’s and heart disease having lost a family member to each condition. For that reason, the foundation dedicates a majority of their resources to providing grants to organizations that focus on the treatment of each of these diseases. In addition, Markoly Foundation supports a variety of programs dedicated to helping children and seniors by providing services, supplies, programs and research in areas impacting these demographics.

Joseph G. Markoly Foundation Grant Support for Children’s Organizations

Children are the future of this world and the Markoly Foundation is proud to fund local programs dedicated to improving the lives of children and their families. From providing vision services for school kids to classes on parenting, we are proud to do our part to help fund critical community programs for families.

We are dedicated to providing funding for local nonprofit programs that improve the quality of life for all, but particularly for the children and elders in our community.

Idaho Community Foundation

The Idaho Community Foundation distributes millions annually in grants and scholarships across the state. These awards are made possible by individuals, families, businesses, affiliates, giving circles, and everyday Idahoans who care for their community.Robert C. Weaver Memorial Scholarship FundEstablished by Neola Weaver in memory of her late husband, residents or former residents of Buhl are eligible for scholarship support as either traditional or nontraditional students. For part-time or full-time traditional or nontraditional students pursuing post high school vocational or academic training.