Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Maine

The Gronstrand Ernst Scholarship, managed by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports high school seniors and adult re-entry students with a minimum GPA of 3.5. Eligible applicants must be residents of San Luis Obispo County, attend a university or vocational program, and demonstrate financial need, with English as their second language. This scholarship aims to empower students to pursue their educational dreams and contribute positively to the community.

The Grief Reach Cycle 3 grant offers $15,000 to U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits dedicated to supporting grieving children and youth. This funding aims to enhance organizational capacity through strategic planning, volunteer engagement, and collaborative partnerships. Organizations must demonstrate a commitment to providing direct services and align their projects with the grant's focus areas. This competitive opportunity seeks to empower underserved communities by expanding access to vital grief support services.

The IUE-CWA Local 88502 Union Scholarship, established by union members, supports students pursuing vocational studies. This scholarship is available to graduating seniors with a parent or grandparent who are union members or retirees. Candidates must be enrolled in a post-secondary vocational degree or certification program and submit an essay explaining their career aspirations. The award amount is determined annually, reflecting the commitment to fostering vocational education within the community.

The Guyon Scholarship for Veterans, established by Ann Guyon in memory of her husband Bill, supports U.S. military veterans from specific Wisconsin counties. It offers a non-renewable $1,000 scholarship for college costs during the first semester. Eligibility includes being a veteran and planning to attend an accredited institution. Financial need is considered, ensuring that the scholarship benefits those who require support for their educational pursuits.

The Hearst Journalism Awards Program, established in 1960, promotes excellence in journalism education by awarding scholarships to outstanding students. With up to $700,000 in awards, the program includes various competitions in writing, photojournalism, audio, television, and multimedia. Open to undergraduate journalism majors and minors from ACEJMC-accredited institutions, it encourages participation in campus media and recognizes exceptional work published while enrolled. The Hearst Foundation has a rich history of supporting educational initiatives.

The Hearst Journalism Awards Program, established in 1960, supports journalism education by offering scholarships and grants. With up to $700,000 in awards, it features various competitions, including writing, photojournalism, audio, and multimedia. Each participating university can submit entries from two students per competition. Notably, undergraduate journalism majors or minors from accredited institutions can participate, while photojournalism entrants are exempt from this requirement. This initiative fosters talent and excellence in journalism across the country.

About Us

Bay Area Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization created by and for the people of the Bay Area. We offer a range of flexible giving tools to help our donors make a positive impact on the community and causes that align with their interests and passions. In addition to first-rate donor service, we manage our community’s permanent endowment and award grants to address the community’s most pressing needs and promising opportunities.

Since 1982, our community has used our resources to make charitable gifts more effective. We provide maximum flexibility in establishing, managing, and distributing your gifts. Through our donors’ generosity, we can help support arts and culture, community initiatives, education and youth, environment, health and wellness, human services, and recreation in our area.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Scholarship

Inspired by the belief that love and peaceful protest can eliminate social, political, and economic injustice, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., became this nation’s most heralded civil right leader. He aroused blacks and whites alike to protest racial discrimination, war, and poverty. A champion of nonviolent resistance to oppression, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. Dr. King’s life ended at the age of 39 on April 4, 1968, when he was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee. However short his life was, he greatly advanced the cause of civil rights in this nation. His life serves as an encouragement to each of us to do all that we can to end injustice.

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Regional Scholarships are awarded each year to Bay County high school seniors (regardless of ethnicity) who actively embrace Dr. King’s dream of improving racial harmony and social justice. The scholarship award(s) will be at least $1,000 and are non-renewable. The scholarship award(s) will be presented at the annual Great Lakes Bay Regional Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration program held each January.

This scholarship is also available to Midland and Saginaw County students through their respective community foundations.

What is a Community Foundation?

We are one of more than 750 similar tax-exempt public charities throughout the United States that work to make their community a better place to live. We are a local organization staffed by residents of the community and led by a board of trustees who have an in-depth knowledge of the issues that shape our County.

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

FOP Lodge #88 Criminal Justice Scholarship

Established by the FOP Thomas Pangborn Lodge #88, this scholarship shall provide awards to deserving students pursuing an education in criminal justice.

The Gilbert “Gibby” Buerk Memorial Scholarship is aimed at Elk County high school seniors and non-traditional students pursuing careers in EMT or paramedic fields. Established by the Elk County Community Foundation, this scholarship honors the legacy of Gilbert J. Buerk, a dedicated EMT. Applicants must demonstrate community involvement and financial need. This fund provides a lasting opportunity for students to advance their education and serve their community, reflecting Gibby's commitment to helping others.

The NewSchools Learning Differences Grant Program aims to enhance educational opportunities for students who learn differently, particularly those affected by poverty and racism. The program invests in innovative solutions and models that support personalized education for these students, ensuring they have access to quality instruction and belonging within school communities. With a focus on equity, it seeks ideas that align with its core investment areas and addresses the needs of marginalized learners.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Helen Schlicht McGeachy & Arthur C. Schlicht Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to students graduating from Aurora Central, Aurora Christian, East Aurora, Marmion Academy, Rosary or West Aurora High School.

Students entering the field of education, engineering, science, medicine or nursing are eligible to apply for these awards.

This fund was established by Arthur C. Schlicht (1936-2020) in memory of his mother Helen Schlicht McGeachy.

Helen McGeachy (1910-1994) was a graduate of East Aurora High School. An outstanding typist and secretary, she ultimately became secretary to the presidents of CA&E Railway and Walker Process Equipment of Aurora. Arthur Schlicht was vice-president/national sales manager at Walker Process Equipment. He earned a degree in chemical engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology.

This fund was created in 1994 and established as an endowment in 1995.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

The Blackstock Family Foundation Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, offers scholarships to Georgia students pursuing degrees in healthcare, special education, or STEM fields. With a focus on supporting individuals with special needs, the fund provides at least one award annually, with renewal options for prior recipients. Eligible candidates must be Georgia residents, high school seniors or currently enrolled students, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7. Preference is given to students from Upson County.

The Mitchell Patrick Mielnik Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors the legacy of Mitchell Mielnik, a passionate hockey player who exemplified integrity. This scholarship supports scholastic hockey players demonstrating excellence in athletics and academics. By fostering Mitchell's spirit of generosity, the foundation aims to empower young athletes to excel in their personal and professional lives, ensuring a positive impact on the community for years to come.

Nurses Educational Funds

Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. depends solely on donations to advance our only mission, to promote nursing leadership through annual scholarship support for professional nurses seeking masters and doctoral degrees in nursing education, practice, research, and administration.

NEF’s only purpose is to provide nursing scholarship assistance to make graduate level nursing education possible. NEF is one of the largest, national, private, professionally endorsed source of funds for advanced nursing study with over one hundred years of service to and for professional nursing. NEF is a non-profit organization with 501(c) status.

Madeline A. Naegle Scholarship for Mental Health Nursing

In 2018, Madeline A. Naegle, PhD, CNS-PMH, RN, BC, FAAN, a national and international nursing leader in mental health/substance abuse education, research, and practice together with NEF created this scholarship with a preference to graduate nurses specializing in mental health nursing.

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.

Coppola Family Travel Scholarship

The Coppola Family Travel Scholarship benefits Napa County High School students in grades 10-12 who have a desire to explore the world. This one-time award (“educational enrichment grant”) can be used to pay for tuition and associated costs for participation in a summer enrichment program in the United States or in Europe. Applicants must show a commitment to hard work and diligence in the pursuit of their goals. 

The Thomas J. Sweeney Scholarship, established by the East Bay Community Foundation, honors labor leader Tom Sweeney. It awards $2,000 to graduating high school students accepted into college or university, and $1,000 to post-secondary students in undergraduate or graduate programs. Eligibility requires students to be members or dependents of IBEW Local 595 and maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher. This scholarship supports educational expenses, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to fostering academic success in the community.

The Music Performance Trust Fund (MPTF) is a nonprofit organization established in 1948, dedicated to enhancing public appreciation of music. It offers free, live music programs across the United States and Canada, ensuring access to quality musical experiences for diverse communities. Funded by royalties from major record labels, the MPTF collaborates with local arts organizations to promote music education and performance, enriching lives through the power of music at no cost to attendees.

The Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Grant Program, initiated by Eric Smidt through The Smidt Foundation, supports high school students in skilled trades education. This initiative facilitates pathways to graduation and fosters opportunities for meaningful employment. Each year, it awards $1.5 million in cash prizes to 25 exceptional U.S. public high school skilled trades teachers, enhancing support and investment in trades education. This program is a vital resource for schools aiming to improve their vocational training.

The Music Family Scholarship, funded by the Music Performance Trust Fund, aims to enhance music appreciation and accessibility for children and communities. Established in 1948, the MPTF provides free live music programs across the U.S. and Canada, focusing on underserved populations. Eligible applicants must have a parent in good standing with a Local AFM and be enrolled in higher education for fall 2025. This scholarship encourages artistic expression and community unity through music, fostering enriching experiences for all.

The Music's Future Scholarship, provided by the Music Performance Trust Fund, aims to enhance music education by offering financial support to students enrolled in music degree programs. The scholarship requires applicants to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, submit a letter of reference, a resume, a personal statement, and a prior semester transcript. This initiative not only encourages academic excellence but also addresses the importance of music in education, fostering opportunities for students to discuss improvements in music education.

The Pabst Steinmetz Foundation Grant supports innovative projects at the intersection of arts, education, and wellness. It aims to empower organizations that address critical community issues and foster sustainable models for change, particularly in Florida. The foundation encourages collaboration and seeks initiatives that create a ripple effect, enhancing community capacity and promoting impactful solutions. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) entities in the U.S. focusing on community betterment through creative approaches.

The Bob and Cheri Suttner Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, supports residents from local school districts pursuing an electrical trade education. Established to promote careers in power line technology, this scholarship emphasizes the importance of skilled trades and aims to provide financial assistance for students attending technical colleges. It honors the legacy of Bob and Cheri Suttner, who dedicated their lives to the community and the electric utility profession.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to establish a fund with us. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Midland Empire Safety Association Scholarship

This fund was established by the Midland Empire Safety Association to provide academic scholarships to students pursuing a degree in occupational safety and/or health, industrial hygiene, environmental safety, industrial fire prevention, risk management and occupational medicine.

Guidelines:

Scholarship recipient is chosen by The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri’s Finance/Grant Committee. Scholarships will be awarded on a one-time basis and disbursed in August.

Amount:

Minimum of $500.00 to be paid at the start of the Fall semester.

The Darrell Wolf Trades Scholarship, established by the Clintonville Area Foundation, honors a self-taught machinist and 1982 Marion High School graduate. This $500 non-renewable scholarship supports students from the Marion or Clintonville School Districts pursuing a degree in welding or machining at an accredited technical college. Preference is given to those with relevant apprenticeship experience. Financial need is also considered, ensuring that deserving students can further their education and skills in the trades.

About Us

The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is a resource for local charitable giving. Created by and for the people of San Luis Obispo County, The Community Foundation is an enduring source of charitable funds to meet the changing needs and interests of the region. We envision San Luis Obispo County as an inclusive haven where everyone, regardless of background, feels free to fully participate. In collaboration with our community partners and donors, we seek to foster a safe, respectful environment with ample opportunity for all to reach their potential and contribute to the success of our community. We invite you to join us in celebrating diversity, making sure all of our neighbors feel seen, and free from dehumanizing rhetoric and violence, as we shape a future where all residents can flourish. 

2025-2026 Scholarship Applications

Big dreams start here! With support from generous individuals, families, and businesses, the Community Foundation offers scholarships that help San Luis Obispo County students reach new heights in their education and careers.

Alan D. Stephenson Scholarship

The Alan D. Stephenson Scholarship was established to support promising LGBTQIA+ students to achieve their academic potential.

The Alfred I., Catharine J., and Eleanor G. Switzer Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, aims to support local youth residing in Los Osos, CA. This scholarship is open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students, providing them with essential financial assistance to pursue their educational goals. By fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, the foundation encourages students to achieve their dreams and contribute positively to their community.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Community Foundation of Henderson County was incorporated in 1982 by a group of fourteen dedicated and compassionate local leaders with the immediate need to manage two funds - the William C. Armstrong Scholarship Fund and the Charlie Renfrow Scholarship Fund, in addition to providing a permanent vehicle for citizens to give back to their community.

Our Mission is to help people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter. The Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

Jenice Schlein Denning Scholarship

This scholarship is to provide assistance with educational expenses for students who cannot otherwise afford attendance at an institution of higher learning. The applicant must be matriculating to a bachelor degree graduate institution, shown academic potential, and be pursuing a 4 year degree at an accredited two-year or four-year college or university. Financial need should be a major consideration for this award.

The scholarship is renewable.