Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Maine

About Community Foundation of South Alabama

Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama, improving the lives of many residents in our corner of the world.

We amplify the gifts from generous donors through wise investment, support others in efforts to enhance our community, and lead and collaborate on initiatives which have a broad impact.

Scholarships

The more than 40 scholarship funds at the Foundation were created by generous donors who wanted to help the students in our community achieve a brighter future. We are committed to assisting the most promising students with scholarships for professional certificate programs, two and four-year undergraduate degrees and graduate school. The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, books, and fees.

Partners for Environmental Progress (PEP) Scholarship

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria: be an owner, employee or dependent of an owner or employee of the local branch/site of a company whose membership in PEP is in good standing at the time of the application, selection & awarding of the scholarship to the applicant. Applicants must currently be enrolled at the time of the application as a full or part-time student in a two year or four year accredited technical college, or university for secondary or post-secondary work and have a minimum 3.0 GPA with a declared course of study and major in one of the following: environmental science, environmental planning, environmental engineering, or other related science fields of study, including, but not limited to, all engineering fields, marine science, geoscience, fisheries science, forestry, and estuarine science and management.

The Harry C. Moore Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Four County Community Foundation, supports high school seniors who have earned a varsity letter in any sport, including Quiz Bowl, and maintain a GPA of 3.00 or higher. Awardees will be honored at the Foundation Scholarship Celebration in May and recognized at their respective high school awards events. This scholarship exemplifies the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for local students.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of all communities in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas by investing and serving as a catalyst for ideas, partnerships, medical education, research and programs. The Foundation defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, spiritual and social well-being.

Beverly Joyce White Memorial Scholarship for Hospice Nursing Staff

The scholarship is awarded to hospice nursing staff who are pursuing a certification in hospice palliative care or other related education offerings.

The James J. and Margaret M. Kerrigan Endowed Scholarship, funded by the United Negro College Fund, provides essential financial support for juniors and seniors pursuing degrees in art and education at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. This scholarship aims to empower students with a minimum GPA of 2.5 who demonstrate unmet financial needs, contributing to a more equitable education landscape and fostering future leaders in these vital fields.

Developed in partnership by LEF New England and the Points North Institute, the LEF/CIFF Fellowship is an opportunity for 5 New England-based filmmaker teams to attend the Camden International Film Festival in mid-coast Maine and connect with other filmmakers and industry leaders through a series of mentor-led project development workshops, networking events, and curated 1:1 meetings.

PNI builds a unique, interdisciplinary community of filmmakers, artists, journalists, industry leaders and local audiences, forming a creative hub where stories and talent are discovered, collaborations are born, and the future of nonfiction media is shaped. PNI’s programs include the annual Camden International Film Festival and Points North Forum, as well as a growing suite of artist development initiatives: retreats, residencies, workshops and fellowships that nurture the careers of diverse nonfiction storytellers and help them develop a stronger artistic voice.

LEF/CIFF Fellowship

The LEF/CIFF Fellowship program supports career sustainability for regional filmmakers by providing a unique point of access to potential industry supporters, peer mentorship opportunities with fellow filmmakers, and connections to the broader documentary community

The LEF/CIFF Fellowship provides:

• a $1000 stipend per project to support travel to Camden, Maine
• (2) Points North passes to the Camden International Film Festival, providing full access to all screenings, forums, events, and our exclusive Lounge
• (6) nights of accommodations (one double-occupancy room) during the festival
• Mentor-led workshops to discuss and practice presenting your documentary work-in-progress within a supportive cohort-based environment.
• Networking events and curated 1:1 meetings with funders, distributors, producers, and other potential supporters for your project. 

CIFF has become an important stop on the documentary festival circuit for both filmmakers and industry delegates, who attend to build new relationships with filmmakers participating in Points North Institute’s Artist Programs. In recent years, LEF/CIFF Fellows have had opportunities to build relationships with dozens of major funders (Sundance, Ford, ITVS, Doc Society, Catapult, XTR); sales agents (Submarine, CAA, Endeavor); streaming platforms (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+); broadcasters (POV, CNN, NBC, ESPN); theatrical distributors (NEON, A24); and more.

The International Association of Minister's Wives & Widows Scholarship Program, supported by the United Negro College Fund, provides need-based scholarships to eligible students attending accredited four-year Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This initiative aims to empower deserving students, ensuring they have the financial support necessary to pursue their education and achieve their academic goals. By fostering educational opportunities, the program continues the legacy of advocating for minority education and community engagement.

The Community Partnership Grant, administered by the Sons of Norway Foundation, offers up to $5,000 for projects that promote and preserve Norwegian culture and heritage. Open to individuals and groups from Norway and the U.S., the grant encourages initiatives that reflect the foundation's core values such as lifelong learning and community generosity. Applications must be submitted online in English and should demonstrate a commitment to celebrating Norwegian cultural traditions.

APA Foundation

The mission of the APA Foundation is to advance the art and science of planning through philanthropic activities that provide access to educational opportunities, enrich the public dialogue about planning, and advance social equity in the profession and our communities.

APA Scholarships

The APA Foundation scholarships aim to make the planning profession more accessible to individuals with limited financial means and to attract the best, brightest, and most talented individuals to the field of planning.

These scholarships are intended for students who demonstrate academic merit, a commitment to the field of planning, and financial need. The expanded eligibility includes students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate planning‑related programs at accredited U.S. institutions, reflecting the Foundation’s commitment to broadening access to the profession and strengthening its impact on communities nationwide.

APA Foundation Environmental Scholarship

This scholarship supports students pursuing planning degrees with a focus on environmental or conservation planning. It reflects a commitment to advancing wildlife and environmental conservation through the planning profession and to supporting future planners dedicated to protecting natural resources and sustainable environments. Awards are given to students currently enrolled in degree programs in planning.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) invites applications for clinical trials and ancillary studies within its funded research networks. This program supports multi-center trials, emphasizing collaborations and responsive projects. The UG3/UH3 cooperative agreement will fund an initial 2-year planning phase, with a potential 5-year implementation phase. This notice is to prepare applicants for future submissions, as applications are currently not being solicited. Prioritization will be given to studies aligned with network capabilities.

Each year, Innovia awards over $400,000 in scholarships to deserving students like you who are college-bound or pursuing vocational or technical training. Single scholarship awards range between $500 and $4,000.

Eilleen Hutchison Scholarship

Primary factors for consideration are academic achievement, financial need and good personal character. Previous recipients of this award are eligible to reapply.

The Billye Suber Aaron Legacy Scholarship, supported by the United Negro College Fund, provides renewable, need-based scholarships for full-time undergraduate students at select HBCUs. Eligible students must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and demonstrate financial need. This initiative aims to empower minority students and promote educational attainment, reflecting UNCF's commitment to supporting academic excellence and leadership within the community.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Edward Arciniega Scholarship

For graduating seniors from Churchill County High School, Charter School, or from a Churchill County Home-school program, intending to study at a 2-4 year college, having studied a foreign language for at least 4 years. This is a single year award for students who have at least four years of study in a language other than English in grades 6-12, and who have demonstrated an aptitude for language and academic accomplishment. This is a one-time award of up to $1,000.

The Visionary Prize for Women’s Economic Empowerment, established in 2022 by Visionary Women and the Hostetler/Wrigley Foundation, honors a visionary woman leader of a nonprofit focused on advancing women's economic empowerment in the U.S. This prestigious award provides $100,000 in unrestricted funds to support the recipient's agency and its initiatives. Eligible candidates must have a minimum of four years of operation and an annual budget exceeding $500,000, actively working towards women's economic advancement.

The Mike and Sharon Bell Scholarship, offered by the Central Kentucky Community Foundation, supports students from Hardin County Water District No. 2 or active members of Glendale Christian Church. Applicants should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and plan to attend a two- or four-year academic or technical school. This scholarship aims to empower local students to pursue their educational goals and enhance their community involvement.

Ludington Hospital Medical Staff Physicians Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Corewell Health Ludington Hospital Medical Staff, which established the Ludington Hospital Medical Staff Physicians Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

The award is renewable throughout college and medical school as long as the recipient demonstrates academic success and continues on the medical school track. The medical staff's goal in providing this scholarship is to reduce the burden of student loan debt, inspire young people to pursue medicine, and encourage them to return to Mason County to practice upon completing their training.

The CSS Dharm V. Singh Carcinogenesis Graduate Student Endowment Award, established by the Society of Toxicology, encourages graduate students to submit abstracts for competition. The award, which includes a $750 cash prize for the first-place winner, aims to promote research in carcinogenesis. Additional prizes of $500 and $350 are awarded for second and third place. This initiative strengthens the commitment to diversity and inclusion in scientific research, fostering a healthier and safer world.

The Regenerative Agriculture Foundation Grant supports organizations that promote regenerative practices, emphasizing the value of people, plants, animals, and the planet. With a focus on BIPOC-led initiatives, the foundation encourages systemic change in agricultural systems through collaborative funding. Grants are available to U.S.-based organizations that align with RAF's vision and engage in transformative efforts. The competitive grantmaking process is by invitation only, ensuring targeted support for impactful projects.

The Barbara and Frank Quadrato Veterinary Scholarship, established by the Connecticut Community Foundation, supports students pursuing veterinary medicine, prioritizing those from Woodbury or Bethlehem. Founded in 1923, the Foundation addresses critical community issues and provides scholarships to help students achieve their educational aspirations. As one of the largest scholarship providers in the Greater Waterbury and Litchfield Hills area, it has a long history of generosity from donors committed to fostering educational opportunities.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

The Davis Fire Appreciation Scholarship

The Davis Fire Appreciation Scholarship honors the brave firefighters and law enforcement officers who safeguarded our Nevada communities by supporting their family members' pursuit of higher education.

The Davis Fire Appreciation Scholarship was established by the residents of the Montreux, Arrowcreek, Saddlehorn, and surrounding communities to demonstrate deep appreciation for the firefighters and law enforcement officers who worked tirelessly to hold the fire line during the September 2024 Davis Fire and saved their homes.

The Davis Fire Appreciation Family Scholarships are offered to family members of Nevada firefighters and/or family members of law enforcement who are seeking a 2- or 4-year degree, trade school, or vocational certificate. This is a one-time award of $3,000.

About CKCF

Our Mission

Central Kentucky Community Foundation is the philanthropic focal point in the region, serving as a resource, leader and catalyst to people who wish to improve life in their community.

Available Scholarships

2026 Rylee Marie Razon Memorial Equine Scholarship

The OVC FY 2026 Enhanced Collaborative Model (ECM) Task Force to Combat Human Trafficking aims to strengthen responses to human trafficking through multidisciplinary collaboration. This initiative provides essential resources for victim identification, service delivery, and case investigations, all supported by the U.S. Department of Justice. By fostering cooperative efforts, the program seeks to enhance the effectiveness of local jurisdictions in combating this critical issue and ensuring the safety and rights of affected individuals.

The Wm. Wrigley's Foundation Scholarship, offered by the United Negro College Fund, supports undergraduate students enrolled in UNCF member schools for the 2025-2026 academic year. This scholarship provides up to $5,000 based on verified financial need. Eligible candidates must be majoring in specific fields such as engineering, business, or computer science, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. This initiative reinforces the commitment to enhancing minority education and fostering future leaders.

The UNCF General Scholarship, offered by the United Negro College Fund, provides essential financial support to students enrolled full-time at one of 37 UNCF Member Institutions for the 2024-2025 academic year. This scholarship aims to enhance access to higher education for minority students, helping them thrive and graduate. The application process is designed to create a pool of eligible candidates for various scholarship opportunities, emphasizing the importance of education and community engagement.

The Renee Starks Steed Memorial Scholarship, offered by the United Negro College Fund, supports HBCU students majoring in fashion-related fields. Aimed at sophomores, juniors, and seniors, it emphasizes academic excellence with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This need-based scholarship fosters diversity, prioritizing students of color, and is part of UNCF's broader mission to enhance educational opportunities for underrepresented communities. Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now open.

The WITH Foundation's upcoming RFP cycle opens on July 1, 2026, with decisions from the previous cycle made in February 2026. The foundation aims to improve healthcare for adults with developmental disabilities, emphasizing dignity and comprehensive care. Grants of up to $150,000 are available, with research-focused projects eligible for up to $250,000. Priority is given to applicants with 501(c)(3) status, addressing specific needs in healthcare delivery and advocating for systemic change.

The FY2026 ABPP Battlefield Land Acquisition Grant, offered by the US Department of the Interior's National Park Service, aims to preserve historic battlefields from the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War. Grants, funded by the Land and Water Conservation Fund, require a dollar-for-dollar non-Federal match and support projects that enhance public access and enjoyment while maintaining preservation goals. Applications are accepted until December 30, 2026.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) aims to establish a Center for the Advancement of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Pharmacotherapeutics. This Center will educate researchers on product development for SUD therapies and provide technical and financial support for initial experiments. It encourages collaboration and outreach to enhance research efforts in drug addiction. Investigators with relevant expertise are invited to consider applying for future opportunities to develop impactful solutions in SUD pharmacotherapeutics.