Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Maryland

The J.M.K. Innovation Prize, awarded by The J.M. Kaplan Fund, supports early-stage social innovators tackling critical issues in environment, heritage conservation, and social justice. With up to $175,000 in funding and tailored support over three years, it empowers organizations to pilot transformative solutions. The Prize fosters collaboration among awardees, providing resources and mentorship to enhance their impact. Open to both non-profit and mission-driven for-profit entities, it addresses the funding gap for innovative, high-potential projects.

The NIDCD Mentored Career Development Award for Postdoctorate Au.D./Ph.D. Audiologists (K01) aims to support the career development of promising audiologists through rigorous postdoctoral research in biomedical, behavioral, or clinical sciences. This initiative encourages independent investigation in health-related research relevant to NIDCD's mission. Applications are due on various dates, with the next deadline on June 13, 2024, providing opportunities for advancing research in audiology and related fields.

The Paul Drury Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Paul Drury, who inspired many while living with cystic fibrosis. This scholarship is aimed at siblings and children of individuals with CF, recognizing the crucial support family members provide. Eligible applicants must have a family member with CF, demonstrate academic achievement, and be enrolled in an educational program. This initiative highlights the importance of family in managing the challenges posed by cystic fibrosis.

The Abbvie Parkinson’s Disease Grant aims to enhance the understanding and management of subcutaneous infusion therapies for advanced Parkinson’s disease. As these therapies become more prevalent, it is crucial for Movement Disorder Specialists and General Neurologists to develop confidence in identifying, mitigating, and managing infusion site events. This grant seeks to provide essential education and resources to support safe and effective treatment options for patients experiencing motor fluctuations.

The What’s Your Gap Grant, provided by BreatheStrong CF in partnership with the Closing the Gap Foundation, supports teens and adults living with cystic fibrosis. This grant alleviates financial barriers, allowing recipients to pursue health and wellness opportunities tailored to their individual goals. It aims to empower applicants who envision a healthier lifestyle but face challenges in achieving it, serving as a catalyst for positive change in their lives.

The Charles E. Crow Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 1953, supports graduates of Big Pasture High School in Randlett, Oklahoma, by providing a one-year scholarship up to $5,000. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities for students pursuing college, community college, or trade school certifications. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.8. By investing in the potential of local youth, this fund contributes to building thriving communities and advancing equity in education.

The BJA FY 2026 Investigating and Prosecuting Sexual Assaults in Confinement Facilities Program aims to enhance state, local, and tribal capacities to investigate and prosecute sexual assault incidents within confinement facilities. This funding opportunity is designed for law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies to effectively address and reduce sexual assault occurrences while improving prosecution success rates. Applications are due by September 30, 2026, at 8:59 PM ET.

The NExT AI Hubs initiative by the NICHD aims to explore innovative applications of AI technologies in enhancing developmental outcomes for children at risk of learning disabilities. This program will focus on high-risk research topics, fostering advancements in understanding how AI can support learning in reading, writing, and mathematics. The initiative is backed by various public health laws, ensuring a comprehensive approach to child health and education.

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Bertha and Addison Bostain, Sr. Scholarship ($2,300)

This renewable scholarship is available to students who will or have graduate from a high school located in Chapin, South Carolina. 

The College Women's Club Charitable Fund Scholarship aims to support female graduating seniors from selected high schools in Erie County, Ohio, who are pursuing undergraduate degrees. With a focus on financial need and a minimum GPA requirement of 3.5, this scholarship encourages young women to contribute positively to their communities. Since its inception in 1995, the fund has played a vital role in enhancing educational opportunities and fostering leadership among local students.

The Indigenous Tomorrows Fund (ITF) is a youth-led initiative by Native Americans in Philanthropy aimed at supporting Indigenous youth leadership and community-driven solutions. In its 2025 pilot year, ITF will award up to 24 grants of $30,000 each to projects that enhance cultural continuity and sustainable futures. Priorities include promoting food justice, advancing community health, and strengthening cultural connections, particularly those addressing inequity and fostering long-term healing.

The Autism Society Northwestern Pennsylvania Scholarship, provided by the Erie Community Foundation, aims to support students with Autism Spectrum Disorder who have an IEP or 504 plan. In 2023, over $800,000 in scholarships were awarded to help more than 500 students pursue their educational goals. Preference is given to those with a current Autism Society NWPA membership, ensuring that resources are directed to those who need it most in their journey towards higher education and job training.

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Katherine K. Greiner Scholarship ($3,000) 

This renewable scholarship was established to support students who plan to become elementary, middle or high school teachers. 

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Sonoco Scholarship ($2,500)

This renewable scholarship is for dependents of qualified Sonoco employees of U.S. domestic facilities. 

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

South Carolina Arms Collectors Association Scholarship ($2,000)

This renewable scholarship is for members, dependents or grandchildren of members of the South Carolina Arms Collectors Association in good standing for the last three consecutive years. 

The Funding the Future of Finance in Indian Country/Johnson Scholarship offers financial support to eligible American Indian and Alaska Native undergraduate students pursuing full-time degrees in business, accounting, or finance. The program aims to enhance diversity in these fields and provides awards of up to $10,000 per academic year based on need. Applicants must demonstrate Tribal affiliation through a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

The MCSF Career & Technical Education Scholarship supports children of Marines pursuing non-degree certificate programs. It offers financial assistance to eligible applicants based on need, helping cover tuition, fees, and associated educational costs. With a minimum GPA requirement of 2.00 and a family income cap of $123,000, this scholarship ensures that all qualifying students have access to vocational training at accredited institutions. Applications are accepted year-round, providing flexibility for students.

The James J. and Joan A. Gardner Family Foundation focuses on enriching lives and making a positive impact in local communities. They prioritize funding for tax-exempt organizations that enhance education, health care, and support the under-served. The Foundation seeks to partner with those who demonstrate accountability and effective resource management, aligning with their mission for community enrichment and leadership development.

The BIE Special Higher Education Program offers financial assistance to American Indian and Alaska Native graduate and professional students enrolled full-time in accredited institutions across various fields. Awards fluctuate annually based on applicant qualifications and available funding, ensuring support aligns with need-based criteria. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate Tribal affiliation through a Tribal Eligibility Certificate. This initiative aims to empower Indigenous scholars in their academic pursuits.

Spencer Educational Foundation Inc

The Spencer Educational Foundation was founded by the Rims Atlanta Chapter in 1979. To this day, Spencer remains the premier organization funding the education of tomorrow's risk management and insurance leaders.

The Spencer Educational Foundation: awards merit-based scholarships and grants to university students pursuing careers in risk management, insurance, and/or actuarial science; provides grants that create experiential learning opportunities both on and off campus; funds the development of risk management and insurance curricula in colleges and universities; supports Risk Managers by creating internship opportunities within the risk management function of their companies; and operates across the United States and Canada. 

Spencer Educational Foundation: Spencer Success Stipend

The Spencer Success Stipend is a student support initiative created to help reduce financial barriers associated with internship opportunities in the risk management and insurance industry. The program provides funding to eligible students to assist with internship-related expenses that may otherwise make it difficult to participate in valuable experiential learning opportunities.

Through the Spencer Success Stipend, students may receive support for expenses such as housing, transportation, professional attire, technology, relocation costs, work-related meals, licensing or background check fees, and other direct internship participation costs. The goal of the program is to ensure students can fully engage in career-building experiences that strengthen their professional development, industry exposure, and long-term success.

Thanks to the generous support of Allied World and Munich Re, Spencer is proud to expand access to these opportunities and continue investing in the next generation of industry talent. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

The Six Flags Lamond Jasper Maintenance Scholarship supports dedicated maintenance associates of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation. Eligible applicants must have at least 12 months of employment, be a high school graduate or GED holder, and be enrolled in a vocational training or apprenticeship program focused on trade or maintenance roles in the U.S. This scholarship aims to empower individuals to enhance their skills and contribute positively to their communities.

The Six Flags Associate Scholarship, offered by the Erie County Community Foundation, aims to support recent high school graduates or college students with financial need. Eligible applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA and be enrolled in an accredited institution in the U.S. Preference is given to those demonstrating community service and leadership. This scholarship can be renewed for up to three additional years, ensuring ongoing support for scholars committed to enhancing the quality of life in Erie County.

The Craig Zadan Pathway for Equity in the Arts Grant aims to enhance high school theatre programs in underserved communities. By providing $10,000 grants, this initiative fosters collaboration between students and industry professionals, while promoting performances that address diverse perspectives. The grant encourages schools to select plays that spark important conversations, ensuring inclusivity and representation in the arts. Ultimately, it seeks to inspire students and open doors to future careers in theatre.

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 Ted & Marian Stout Scholarship, managed by the Decatur County Community Foundation, supports individuals from the First Baptist Church of Greensburg pursuing post-secondary education. Eligible recipients must demonstrate Christian values, maintain good academic standing, and have clear educational and life goals. This scholarship aims to ease financial burdens and encourage community involvement, fostering the foundation's mission to create a lasting impact in Decatur County.

The Burney and Lucy Lehman Scholarship, managed by the Decatur County Community Foundation, provides financial support for up to four years of post-secondary education to graduating seniors from North and South Decatur High Schools. This scholarship aims to assist students who face challenges in pursuing higher education, promoting academic success and community engagement. For eligibility, applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. More information can be found at ndsdscholarship.com.

The Robert Whitney Erie County Farm Bureau Agricultural Scholarship supports children and grandchildren of Erie County Farm Bureau members in good standing, who have paid dues for at least two consecutive years. This scholarship is aimed at students pursuing post-secondary education, including vocational schools, with a preference for those majoring in agriculture-related fields. It provides financial assistance to eligible candidates committed to furthering their education.