Best Grants for Capital Funding in Maryland

The Baker and Taylor YALSA Conference Grant provides two $1,000 awards to librarians working with young adults, enabling them to attend the Annual Conference for the first time. One grant supports a school librarian, while the other is for a public library librarian. Applicants must be current members of ALA/YALSA, with prior membership preferred for at least two years, and must have between one to ten years of experience working with teenagers.

The ABC-CLIO Leadership Grant supports AASL Chapters in developing leadership programs for school library associations at various levels. This grant encourages initiatives that engage new members, train current leaders, and foster collaboration among organizations. Successful applications clearly define program objectives, participant groups, and include well-structured budgets and evaluation plans. The grant aims to promote innovative leadership approaches that can be replicated by other chapters, enhancing the overall effectiveness of school libraries.

The Law & Science Program, funded by the National Science Foundation, invites interdisciplinary proposals that explore the intersection of law and scientific principles. It focuses on research examining human behavior, legal processes, and the application of technology in legal contexts. Topics include crime, environmental science, and forensic studies. Applications are due on January 15 and August 1 for the years 2021 through 2025, promoting innovative research that enhances understanding of legal systems.

The Flowers Fund Grant, established by HRE USA in 2017 to honor founding member Nancy Flowers, offers annual small grants of up to $1000. It aims to support innovation and mentorship in human rights education in the U.S., encouraging new ideas and outreach methods. Applications are open to HRE USA members for projects relevant to human rights education, with a focus on research, conferences, and leadership. Grants are intended for completion within the academic year.

The Experimental Physics Investigators Initiative, launched by the Gordon E. and Betty I. Moore Foundation, aims to support mid-career scientists in experimental physics. With a funding of $1,250,000 over five years, this program encourages innovative research and collaboration among scientists. Applicants from U.S. institutions are invited to submit pre-proposals, with about 50% advancing to full proposals. The initiative fosters inclusivity and equity while aiming to make significant impacts in the field of experimental physics.

ETC's Community Betterment Committee Funding Grant provides financial support to non-profit organizations across the United States. Established in 1975, ETC focuses on fostering community initiatives by awarding grants up to $5,000 semi-annually. The selection process is conducted by a committee of employee volunteers, ensuring that funds are allocated to a variety of deserving causes. This initiative reflects ETC's commitment to enhancing community welfare and supporting local initiatives.

The Science Café Mini-Grant, offered by the American Chemical Society, provides up to $500 to support Local Sections in organizing engaging Science Cafés. These events foster discussions between scientists and the community on contemporary topics, enhancing public understanding of science. By participating, local sections can encourage scientific literacy and invigorate interest in scientific issues, making it a valuable opportunity for community engagement.

The Methodology, Measurement, and Statistics (MMS) Program by the National Science Foundation (NSF) promotes innovative analytical and statistical methodologies for social, behavioral, and economic sciences. It offers various funding mechanisms, including Regular Research Awards, Doctoral Dissertation Research Improvement (DDRI), and Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) grants. The program aims to enhance the utility of official statistics through collaborative research and supports early career development initiatives.

The Burkburnett Legacy Foundation aims to enhance philanthropy and provide charitable opportunities to support nonprofits in Burkburnett, TX. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities, with grants awarded for charitable purposes. The foundation promotes the well-being of all, irrespective of race or gender. However, certain ineligibilities apply, such as restrictions on grants to political candidates or individuals. Organizations can apply annually to benefit from this foundation's support.

The Royal B. Kinder Fund aims to enhance the quality of life in Wichita Falls by promoting charitable giving. Nonprofits in Archer County are eligible to apply for grants, which are awarded to 501(c)(3) organizations and other charitable projects. The fund encourages initiatives that benefit the community without discrimination. However, restrictions apply to fundraising, scholarships, and grants to individuals or political entities. Eligible organizations can apply annually to support various charitable purposes.

Residential Fellowships

Fellowships offer scholars the time, space, and support they need to pursue their work and the opportunity to take part in the Center’s vibrant intellectual community.

The National Humanities Center’s Residential Fellowship is one of the most prestigious humanities fellowship programs in the world. Fellows enjoy a beautiful and serene space to write, unparalleled library and reference support, excellent dining services, and a stimulating and supportive intellectual community.

A key feature, meanwhile, that differentiates us from many other fellowships is our residential requirement. Researchers are especially encouraged to apply when they expect to benefit from, and actively contribute to, an in-person community of other humanities researchers. If you prefer a research fellowship that allows you to do field work or to work in your own local space, this may not be the fellowship for you.

To be considered for this program, applicants must select that their institution is an HBCU when prompted in the online application system to identify the type of institution with which they are affiliated. Applicants may apply for a residential fellowship for the fall semester (September through December), spring semester (January through May), or academic year (September through May).

The ACLS Project Grants for HBCU Faculty provide up to $10,000 to support early-stage project design and development over a 12- to 15-month period. This funding facilitates exploratory research and the advancement of existing projects, while offering networking and mentorship opportunities. Applicants must be employed at an HBCU and possess an MA or PhD in humanities or social sciences. The initiative encourages innovative research methods and community engagement, with a focus on higher education outcomes.

CSX Charitable Investments offers Community Service Grants to organizations that significantly impact their communities. These grants aim to support entities with tax-exempt status, government agencies, or educational institutions. The application process is open year-round, with responses expected within 30–45 days. The foundation prioritizes projects that serve military families and first responders, reflecting CSX's commitment to community service and support for local needs.

The Albert & Ethel Herzstein Charitable Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations that create positive change in communities. Focused on enhancing lives and providing opportunities for self-improvement, the foundation prioritizes requests from organizations in the Houston area and Texas. Eligible applicants may submit one request per year, ensuring a fair assessment process. Note that grants are not available to individuals, and lobbying efforts may adversely affect the consideration of applications.

The Data Fellowship by Delta Analytics offers a unique opportunity for individuals with strong technical skills in data science, engineering, or visualization to volunteer and empower nonprofits. Over a six-month commitment, participants dedicate 5-10 hours weekly to work closely with nonprofit organizations, leveraging data to drive impactful decisions. This fully remote fellowship fosters personal and professional growth while building a community of like-minded individuals passionate about using data for social good.

The FY26 US DOT Drone Infrastructure Inspection Grants (DIIG) Program aims to enhance the use of drones for critical infrastructure inspections by eligible government entities. With $9 million available, the program supports innovative drone technologies and prioritizes projects that improve safety and operational efficiency. Grant funds can be used for purchasing drone systems and contracting services. The federal share may reach up to 75% in certain cases, fostering collaboration and technological advancement in infrastructure management.

The Clinton Presidential Research Fellowship, offered by the Clinton Presidential Library and the Clinton Foundation, supports graduate students and early career academics in the humanities and social sciences. This fellowship enables research into President Clinton's administration and its legacy. Annual funding ranges from $1,250 to $5,000 USD, encouraging students and scholars to delve into American history and presidential legacies. Applications are invited from current graduate students or those who have earned a PhD within the last eight years.

The Computational Mathematics program supports research that integrates computation with mathematical analysis, encouraging innovative algorithm development and application. Proposals may range from individual projects to interdisciplinary teams, focusing on new computational techniques to address significant application challenges. The program also emphasizes training for junior mathematicians through hands-on research. Conference proposals must adhere to strict submission timelines to ensure review and funding opportunities, fostering collaboration within the mathematical sciences.

The ACLS HBCU Faculty Fellowships provide financial support ranging from $30,000 to $50,000 for faculty at Historically Black Colleges and Universities to advance their research projects. The fellowships encourage innovative research outcomes, including scholarly articles and community-engaged projects. Awardees also benefit from mentoring and networking opportunities, with additional funding for their institutions to support humanities programming. This initiative promotes diverse scholarship and collaboration across disciplines, enhancing the academic landscape for HBCU faculty.

The SBG Partnership offers Community Grants to enhance neighborhood projects in Baltimore, with funding tiers ranging from $2,000 to $100,000. Eligibility includes non-profit and community organizations serving local residents. The program aims to fulfill the promise made to Baltimoreans upon the introduction of slot machine gambling, ensuring resources are directed towards community improvement and development. Interested applicants should review specific grant categories and eligibility criteria to align their projects with the funding opportunities.

The SBB Research Group Grant offers $5,000 to 501(c)(3) organizations with a focus on addressing unmet needs through sustainable strategies. The application process is streamlined, consisting of just ten questions. The evaluation includes a review by the Philanthropy Committee, which selects nominees for interviews and finalists for presentations. Winners receive funding and further opportunities, while all finalists receive $1,000. This grant aims to empower organizations with 5 to 49 full-time employees.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) supports research in algebraic topology, covering areas such as homotopy theory, cohomology, and K-theory. It encourages exploration of topological manifolds, knots, and geometric group theory. Researchers can delve into differential topology and general topology, contributing to fundamental advancements in mathematics. This funding opportunity is ideal for those seeking to push the boundaries of knowledge in these complex and essential fields.

The Geometric Analysis program, funded by the National Science Foundation, promotes research in differential geometry, including its connections to partial differential equations and variational principles. It emphasizes global analysis, complex manifolds, and geometric methods in mathematical physics, while also exploring integral geometry and convex sets. This initiative supports innovative studies aimed at advancing the understanding of geometric concepts and their applications in various mathematical disciplines.

The Simons Dissertation Fellowship in Mathematics, offered by the Simons Foundation, supports exceptional Ph.D. students in their final years of study. This fellowship, honoring co-founder Jim Simons, provides $19,200 annually for research support and departmental funds, commencing September 1, 2025. Eligible candidates must be full-time Ph.D. students in a U.S. mathematics department, entering their third year. The program emphasizes research quality, significance, and potential impact.

The Mathematical Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (MSPRF) aim to support emerging leaders in mathematics and statistics. These fellowships enhance participants' research environments, ensuring significant scientific development. Awardees can choose between a Research Fellowship or a Research Instructorship, with funding available for research across various mathematical and statistical disciplines. Proposals are submitted directly to the NSF, and fellows must affiliate with eligible institutions or organizations.

The Ewalt and Jocelyn Maurushat Engineering Scholarship, established in memory of retired engineer Ewalt Maurushat, supports graduating seniors from Erie County, Ohio high schools pursuing an Engineering major. This scholarship emphasizes financial need and may be renewed for up to three years, providing vital assistance to students. Preference is given to academically strong candidates with large families. The Erie County Community Foundation administers this scholarship, fostering educational opportunities and community growth.