Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in Maryland

The JSF Indigenous Peoples Grant Program is dedicated to fostering economic development in Indigenous communities through entrepreneurship and business education. With over 30 years of experience, the program supports Indigenous students with scholarships and capacity-building grants. It has produced more than 80 graduates from its MBA in American Indian Entrepreneurship, addressing barriers to education and employment, and enhancing opportunities for entrepreneurs. JSF's commitment to these initiatives is evident in its annual investment of approximately $500,000.

The Dana Marie Underdonk Bryant Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Central Kentucky Community Foundation, aims to support female graduating seniors from Hardin County high schools. Eligible applicants must plan to pursue a college degree in marketing or business, or have participated in high school tennis, with a minimum GPA of 3.5. This scholarship not only provides financial assistance but also encourages leadership and community involvement among young women.

The Rubin and Gloria Feldman Family Educational Institute Grant Program supports impactful projects that combat hatred and promote understanding through the lessons of the Holocaust. The Institute prioritizes educational and artistic initiatives that facilitate dialogue among diverse communities and address ethical and social issues. Targeting projects primarily in Missouri and the Midwest, the grant aims to foster change by exploring the Holocaust's history and legacy while addressing contemporary societal challenges.

The Division 54 Lizette Peterson-Homer Injury Prevention Grant, provided by the American Psychological Foundation, supports innovative research focused on preventing injuries in children and adolescents. This grant aims to enhance understanding of psychological and behavioral factors influencing injury prevention, honoring the legacy of Lizette Peterson-Homer. Open to graduate students and early career psychologists, it encourages diverse applicants committed to improving children's health and safety through impactful research.

Dr. Barry T. Katzen Master Clinician Award

Honors an interventional radiologist who exemplifies dedication to clinical practice, patient care, diligence in their work and continuous improvement within the field and who has also made a demonstrable impact at their institution or practice as a result.

About

The Dr. Barry T. Katzen Master Clinician Award seeks to honor an interventional radiologist who exemplifies dedication to clinical practice, patient care, diligence in their work and continuous improvement within the field as well as who has made a demonstrable impact at their institution or practice as a result. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to enhancing patient outcomes and advancing the reputation and practice of interventional radiology through their hard work, commitment and, most importantly, clinical practice. The award is being given in the name of Barry T. Katzen, MD, FSIR, who pioneered clinical practice for IR in 1976 and became a vocal advocate, champion and example for colleagues of the importance of IR being a clinical discipline for advancement of the specialty.

The recipient will receive:

• Complimentary annual meeting registration
• Recognition during the SIR Annual Scientific Meeting

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Gregory Keith Jones Memorial Scholarship

The Gregory Keith Jones Memorial Scholarship was established in remembrance of the creative energy, kindness and passion that embodied his much too short time on this earth. This beautiful soul would spread joy, love, and the gospel through music.

Greg was a 1997 graduate of Saginaw High School and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in project management. Along with his gifts of writing music, singing, and playing keyboard and bass, Greg was also a lover of math and tutored young students who struggled with the subject.

The Gregory Keith Jones Memorial Scholarship was established as an enduring legacy to a kind, loving, humble and giving man. May his spirit continue to live on. 

About

Community Foundation of Greenville bridges philanthropy and purpose in Greenville County, helping people make their charitable giving simpler and more powerful for 70 years. We strategically match diverse needs and opportunities in Greenville County with philanthropic resources.

Vision:

Community Foundation of Greenville will be the leading catalyst for developing assets and unlocking potential to meet the needs of an inclusive and equitable community.

Mission:

Community Foundation of Greenville improves the lives of Greenville County residents through strategic philanthropy, community investment, and collaborative leadership.

The Pioneer Scholarship Fund

Purpose:

This Scholarship Fund was established to provide financial assistance for higher education attainment to first generation need-based students residing in Greenville County.

Criteria:

• Applicants must be residents of Greenville County, South Carolina.
• Applicants must be first-generation college students.
• Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 (un-weighted) scale in high school.
• Applicants must be a rising first-year college student.
• Applicants must be accepted to an institution of higher learning prior to applying.
• Applicants must demonstrate financial need (economically disadvantaged).

Preference will be given to African American applicants who meet the outlined criteria, demonstrate financial need, and reside in a single-earner household. However, the final decision will be based on how well applicants meet the overall scholarship requirements, including past academic achievements and future goals.

The Accelerating Impact for Hard-to-Treat Cancers Award, offered by the Children's Cancer Research Fund, focuses on pre-clinical research to enhance treatment outcomes for pediatric cancers that are difficult to treat. The award supports innovative studies, including pilot projects and the development of new technologies. As a nonprofit, CCRF has invested over $235 million in initiatives since 1981, aiming to improve therapies and support for children battling cancer, thereby fostering safer and more effective treatment options.

The Craig Newmark Philanthropies Grants, established in partnership with the Bob Woodruff Foundation, aim to support military and veteran communities through funding initiatives that enhance health and well-being. Since 2020, this program has positively impacted over 1.6 million veterans, service members, and their families. The grants focus on improving health determinants, increasing access to healthcare, and facilitating veterans' successful transitions to civilian life.

The Lillian Gorell Scholarship Fund, established by the Pittsburgh Foundation, offers financial support to deserving students, particularly benefiting blind students and those pursuing studies in the arts. Founded in 1945, the Pittsburgh Foundation emphasizes community stewardship and long-term impact through its philanthropic efforts. This scholarship aims to empower students to achieve their educational goals while enhancing the quality of life in southwestern Pennsylvania.

The Eliminating Disparities in Childhood Cancers Award, offered by the Children’s Cancer Research Fund, supports innovative research aimed at reducing health disparities in childhood cancer. This initiative prioritizes proposals that identify modifiable risk factors and mechanisms of disparities, emphasizing the importance of improving access to care and treatment outcomes. With over $235 million invested since 1981, CCRF is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for children and families affected by cancer.

About Us

We enable donors and nonprofit partners to tackle the most critical needs facing San Diegans.

Mission & Values

Our vision is for just, equitable and resilient communities.

Our mission is to inspire enduring philanthropy and enable community solutions to improve the quality of life in our region.

We value all people, all partners and our region.

Common Scholarship Application

Achieve your Higher Education Dreams

In just one application, our Common Scholarship Application provides students access to more than 150 scholarship opportunities with awards ranging from $1,000 to more than $5,000.

In 2025, San Diego Foundation awarded a record-breaking $5.5 million in scholarships to nearly 1,400 students.

About Us

We enable donors and nonprofit partners to tackle the most critical needs facing San Diegans.

Mission & Values

Our vision is for just, equitable and resilient communities.

Our mission is to inspire enduring philanthropy and enable community solutions to improve the quality of life in our region.

We value all people, all partners and our region.

Common Scholarship Application

Achieve your Higher Education Dreams

In just one application, our Common Scholarship Application provides students access to more than 150 scholarship opportunities with awards ranging from $1,000 to more than $5,000.

In 2025, San Diego Foundation awarded a record-breaking $5.5 million in scholarships to nearly 1,400 students.

The SDIAS Mahatma Gandhi Scholarship, offered by The San Diego Foundation, is designed for high-achieving seniors in San Diego County. It supports students enrolling full-time in accredited four-year universities across the U.S. with a minimum GPA of 3.5. This scholarship aims to empower future leaders and enhance educational opportunities, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to community development and equitable access to higher education.

About Us

Children’s Cancer Research Fund is a national nonprofit dedicated to ending childhood cancer. Our main focus is to support the research of bright scientists across the country whose ideas can make the greatest impact for children fighting cancer. We also fund resources and programs that help kids and families as they navigate the difficult experience of cancer treatment and survivorship.

Since 1981, we’ve contributed over $235 million to research, support programs for children and families, and awareness and education outreach. In 2024, over 81 percent of funds raised went directly to these program services areas.

Children’s Cancer Research Fund (CCRF) is a national nonprofit committed to finding safer, more effective therapies for kids battling cancer. Thanks to donors and partners around the country, we have contributed over $235 million to research, education and awareness, and quality-of-life programs for childhood cancer families. We believe kids deserve safer, less toxic treatments, and we’re committed to funding groundbreaking research and services that enhance healing and care.

In 2026, Children’s Cancer Research Fund will focus our research funding efforts on three main areas:

• Hard-to-Treat Cancers
• Survivorship
• Health Disparities

Accelerating Hope: Clinical Trials for Hard-to-Treat Cancers Award

This funding opportunity is limited to support for clinical trials focused on hard-to-treat cancers, prioritizing Phase 0 – Phase 2 studies. Learn more about eligibility criteria and other key details below.

The Healthy After Cancer Award, offered by the Children's Cancer Research Fund, focuses on enhancing the quality of life for childhood cancer survivors. This funding supports research aimed at addressing the long-term effects of cancer therapy, prioritizing survivorship interventions over new treatment development. With a commitment to improving health outcomes for young survivors, this award underscores the importance of addressing unique challenges faced by this population.

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds. 

Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

Loren and Norma Hill Scholarship Fund

To support students of color as defined by the Foundation, with a preference for residents of Hampden County.

Additional Guidelines

• Students can receive up to $3,000 in scholarships from the Community Foundation.
• Scholarship awards could impact the financial aid offered by a college, and students are advised to check with their college financial aid offices about this.
• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. Some part and/or all the award could be considered taxable income. It is advisable students check with the college or tax accountant regarding this matter

The Marie Darlin Prize, administered by the Juneau-Douglas City Museum and overseen by the Juneau Community Foundation, honors exceptional artistic and scholarly works that reflect Southeast Alaska's cultural heritage. Awarded annually, the prize of $5,000 recognizes individuals or collaborations committed to the region's social and cultural history, community advocacy, and Indigenous identity. Eligible applicants include writers, visual artists, and performers who have produced significant works within the last five years.

PFund Foundation

PFund Foundation builds equity with LGBTQ+ communities across the Upper Midwest by providing grants and scholarships, developing leaders, and inspiring giving.

PFund Foundation Scholarship

PFund Scholarship Grants are for LGBTQ+ students of all ages who are either from or studying in the Upper Midwest. Grants range from $1,000-$12,000 and can be used for a wide variety of expenses and programs. Scholarships also include a lifetime membership to the PFund Scholar Alumni program which includes annual professional development and networking opportunities. There is one application window per year.

Building a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre

Our Mission and Goals

The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF) is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. ETF’s programs aim to support students, educators and the field at large by realizing three strategic goals:

• Subsidizing new, emerging, and underserved student theatre programs;
• Creating paths for theatre educators to develop new skills; and
• Commissioning research to showcase the value of a theatre education.

Grants for Educators & Theatre Programs

A core piece of the Educational Theatre Foundation’s work is supporting theatre educators and theatre programs directly. We do this through a series of production and educator grants available to both members of EdTA as well as non-members.

For EdTA Members

Production Grants are offered in collaboration with the rights holders for specific plays and musicals or for initiative-based productions that build community.

Production Grants

Show-specific financial assistance for educational theatre programs

Austen's Pride: A New Musical of Pride and Prejudice Grant

The Authors of Austen’s Pride: A New Musical of Pride & Prejudice are thrilled to announce a collaboration with ETF to grant five (5) high schools free performance rights and materials to produce this beautiful new musical during the 2026-27 school year. Access a free digital perusal of the script.

What We Do

At the North Carolina Community Foundation, we bring together generous people and connect them to causes and organizations they care about.

Our mission is to inspire North Carolinians to make lasting and meaningful contributions to their communities.

Our Philanthropic Network

We believe in the power of permanent philanthropy to strengthen our communities and people. By stewarding and growing donors’ gifts, our philanthropic network makes a powerful impact through robust grants and scholarships programs.

Hobbs Family Scholarship Endowment

Criteria

High school graduates from Columbus and Brunswick counties who wish to attend an institution of higher learning, with initial preference given to students from Columbus County. Priority will be given to students demonstrating financial need. Students must also demonstrate sound academic performance and a record of service to the community.

The CSA Angels Project, initiated in 2006, provides critical conservation and curatorial support to small institutions with costume collections in proximity to the CSA National Symposium. Each year, one grant is awarded to enhance collection care, encourage volunteer engagement, and ensure preservation of these important cultural artifacts. Institutions must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being a non-profit organization with a limited budget and staff, to qualify for this valuable assistance and training opportunity.

The Henrietta Hutton Research Grant, established in 1964 in memory of a notable University of Oxford student, provides up to three grants of £500 each year. This grant supports undergraduate and Masters students conducting overseas field research lasting over four weeks. Emphasis is placed on independent projects that may not be related to academic studies, with a preference for research that includes geographical, social, or environmental elements.

The Tribal Undergraduate to Graduate Research Training and Leadership Experiences (TURTLE) Program aims to foster the development of American Indian and Alaska Native scientists by funding eligible Tribal Entities. This initiative focuses on creating effective training and mentoring activities for individuals pursuing doctoral degrees in biomedical research. Ultimately, it seeks to enhance the capability of researchers to address health disparities within AI/AN communities, ensuring culturally appropriate and ethically responsible research practices.

Blue Meridian Partners Grant aims to transform lives of young people and families in poverty by investing in scalable strategies that enhance economic and social mobility. The organization seeks stand-alone nonprofits with a proven track record, a compelling vision, and strong leadership. With a commitment to performance-based investing, Blue Meridian provides significant capital, often exceeding $100 million, to foster impactful solutions and address pressing social challenges effectively.

The National Scleroderma Foundation supports pediatric scleroderma research with up to $500,000 in funding for new and established investigators. Their mission focuses on advancing medical research and promoting awareness of scleroderma, with the vision of improving the lives of those affected. This initiative aims to encourage innovative research that could lead to better treatments and a potential cure for pediatric scleroderma, enhancing support for affected families.

The State Recreational Boating Safety (RBS) Grant Program, administered by the US Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Coast Guard, aims to enhance safety and enjoyment on America's waterways. This federal program provides grants to designated state agencies to reduce boating accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Although not open to the public, it plays a critical role in ensuring safe recreational boating experiences by implementing effective safety measures, thereby promoting public welfare and environmental protection.