Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Maryland

International Association of Yoga Therapists

IAYT’s mission is to advance yoga therapy as a recognized health profession.

The International Association of Yoga Therapists has championed yoga as a healing art and science since 1989. Membership is open to all who are aligned with our mission—yoga practitioners, yoga teachers, yoga therapists, healthcare practitioners who use yoga in their practices, and yoga researchers.

More than 5,000 individual members from 50+ countries, together with more than 150 Member Schools, help IAYT to support research and education in yoga.

Nearly 70 IAYT-accredited yoga therapy training programs educate the next generation of IAYT-certified yoga therapists, or C-IAYTs, who come from a range of lineages and backgrounds.

John Kepner Seva Award 

The annual Seva Award recognizes yoga therapists who bring yoga to those who have not had full access to these practices. This award was named in honor of Executive Director Emeritus John Kepner and his tireless efforts to advance the field and give back to the yoga therapy community.

Intended to help support and significantly advance the work of C-IAYTs or yoga therapists in training, the John Kepner Seva Award offers seed funding and publicity for well-defined and well-planned service projects.

IAYT and co-sponsor, the Give Back Yoga Foundation, commit annual support to these awards. 

What projects will be considered?

We’re seeking to support active and ongoing projects that benefit a population that may not otherwise be able to access yoga therapy. We're looking for innovative work that fosters accessibility, inclusivity, diversity, and social justice in yoga therapy, including initiatives focused on overcoming systemic barriers to accessing or training in yoga therapy. Positive consideration is given to yoga therapists from historically underresourced, underserved, marginalized, minoritized, and underrepresented backgrounds. Your application should include specifics about how your project will be communicated to and integrated into the community.

One winner will receive:

• $1,008 (US) prize for project facilitation
• Registration for one person to attend IAYT's Symposium on Yoga Therapy and Research (SYTAR),
• Three nights at the conference hotel
• $400 toward travel to the conference
• Up to 20 yoga mats from Give Back Yoga Foundation to facilitate project classes (if applicable)
• Opportunity to tell the project's story in IAYT’s magazine Yoga Therapy Today
• Recognition at SYTAR 2026
• Social-media coverage from IAYT and Give Back Yoga Foundation
• Two-year beYogi membership (valued at $327)
• Lifetime Sequence Wiz membership (valued at $199/year)

Four runners-up will receive:

• $500 (US) prize for project facilitation (increased from previous years to support travel to SYTAR)
• Up to 20 yoga mats from Give Back Yoga Foundation to facilitate project classes (if applicable)
• Opportunity to tell the project's story in an upcoming IAYT publication
• Recognition at SYTAR 2026
• Social-media coverage from IAYT and Give Back Yoga Foundation

The Brookreson Trust Grant aims to support financing homes for the blind and organizations that assist them. This grant is targeted towards 501(c)(3) exempt organizations across all states. The program focuses on key areas such as education, health, and human services, ensuring that vital resources are directed towards enhancing the quality of life for the visually impaired community. Grants are specifically intended for initiatives that facilitate housing and support services.

The Children's Fresh Air Society Fund Grant aims to provide disadvantaged and disabled children in the Metropolitan Baltimore area with enriching summer camp experiences. This initiative, supported by the Baltimore Community Foundation, is open to qualifying public charities that operate day or residential camps. The grant does not fund annual campaigns, religious purposes, or individual scholarships, ensuring focused support for impactful community programs.

Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland

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.

Boomer Harsh Memorial Fund

This fund aims to provide scholarships to Washington County students graduating from public school. Ideal recipients should participate in school golf and/or tennis teams and be pursuing a post-secondary education in veterinary medicine/science, hoping to become a vet tech or work in an animal-studies related program.

The Institutional Research Grants (IRG) program by the American Cancer Society provides essential seed funding for newly independent investigators to launch cancer research projects. Aimed at junior faculty, these grants offer $120,000 annually for three years, supporting the development of preliminary results necessary for competing for larger national grants. Eligible applicants must be at US academic institutions and hold the rank of Associate or Full Professor, with a proven track record in research and mentorship.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) and the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) co-fund the Clinician Scientist Development Grant (CSDG), aimed at advancing the research careers of clinician scientists in radiation oncology. Eligible applicants are full-time faculty members at U.S. institutions with a doctoral degree and an active clinical license. The grant supports research for 3 to 5 years, providing $135,000 annually for direct costs, plus allowable indirect costs, while encouraging diversity in applications.

The Genentech Career Development Award for Underrepresented Minority Emerging Vision Scientists, offered by ARVO, supports early-career underrepresented minority investigators in establishing independent vision research programs. This two-year grant provides $100,000 for research and personnel costs, aiming to foster innovative project ideas and promising preliminary results. Successful applicants will receive strong mentorship within the eye and vision research community, facilitating career advancement and the potential for impactful scientific publications.

The Clinician Scientist Development Grant (CSDG) by the American Cancer Society supports full-time faculty aiming to become independent clinician scientists while maintaining clinical practice. Eligible applicants must hold a doctoral degree, an active clinical license, and have clinical care experience. The grant provides funding of $135,000 annually for 3 to 5 years, including allowable indirect costs, to advance cancer research in key priority areas.

The American Cancer Society's Mentored Research Grants for Postdoctoral Fellowships (PF) aim to support emerging researchers in their training programs, fostering their transition to independent cancer research careers. Eligible candidates include US citizens or non-citizens with valid visas who have completed their doctoral degrees within the last four years. The fellowship offers funding for up to three years, with stipends of $66,000 to $70,000 annually, alongside allowances for health insurance and professional development.

The Amy Erickson Memorial Award, provided by the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation, supports full-time medical students entering their third or fourth year. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and be enrolled in clinical courses focusing on complementary and alternative therapies. This scholarship not only assists students in their educational pursuits but also aligns with the foundation's mission to enhance community well-being through philanthropy.

The Boustany Foundation's Sport 4 Children Award aims to enhance children's lives through sports, fostering happiness, health, and social skills. Open to organizations globally, the award supports projects that utilize sports for children's well-being. With a funding of 50,000 Euros, it encourages innovative and inclusive initiatives that promote participation in sports, aiming to create positive behavioral changes and community engagement. The foundation believes in the transformative power of sports to build responsible and healthy adults.

The Whitehall Foundation offers research grants to support innovative and scientifically meritorious projects in neurobiology, focusing on sensory and motor functions in both invertebrates and vertebrates. Grants are aimed at independent investigators at accredited institutions in the U.S., with a maximum duration of three years, and a competitive renewal option available. Emphasis is placed on aiding early-career scientists and those transitioning into new research areas, fostering a diverse scientific community.

The Mission Boost Grants (MBG) by the American Cancer Society aim to enhance cancer research by funding projects that translate into human testing. These grants support investigators at all levels, offering resources for innovative clinical projects. The program consists of two funding stages: Stage I focuses on developing clear milestones for new treatments, while Stage II supports patient testing, ultimately contributing to advancements in cancer care and treatment.

The Skin Cancer Pilot Research Grants, funded by the Skin Cancer Foundation, support innovative studies in skin cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. With over $2 million awarded since 1981, these grants are aimed at early career dermatology investigators. Each year, researchers can apply for one-year projects, with a total of $125,000 available through two $50,000 grants and one $25,000 grant. This initiative is vital for advancing research and improving patient outcomes.

The Duncan Scholars Program Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, offers financial assistance for full-time students enrolled in various accredited institutions across the USA. This renewable scholarship is available to children of current Enterprise Products Company employees, ensuring that those with at least three years of service can support their child's educational pursuits. The program aims to enhance community well-being by investing in youth education and future leaders.

Vitamin Angels offers grants to US-based organizations dedicated to improving nutrition for pregnant women, infants, and young children. By providing prenatal multivitamins and technical support, the initiative aims to reach underserved communities facing nutritional barriers. Eligible organizations must serve at least 500 children or 100 pregnant women annually and distribute the vitamins without financial support from Vitamin Angels. This collaborative effort enhances health outcomes for vulnerable populations across the nation.

Grants Program for Penn Investigators - Faculty Awards

Research grant applications in basic science, prevention, disease interception, and early detection that are relevant to the study of BRCA1/2 will be considered. The Basser Cancer Interception Institute focuses on funding new endeavors in emerging, orthogonal fields beyond DNA damage (e.g. mechanisms of haploinsufficiency, cancer evolution and tissue tropism). 

Grants focused on the following are of particular interest:

• Cancer interception and the pre-cancer disease state
• Issues relevant to men (including but not limited to prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, male breast cancer)
• Potential for translation into clinical practice
• Early detection

Grants that demonstrate a potential for translation into clinical practice will be prioritized for funding.

Faculty Awards

Faculty awards are for two years with a funding level up to $200,000 per year.

Grants Program for Penn Investigators - Early career awards for Fellows, Postdocs and Instructors

Research grant applications in basic science, prevention, disease interception, and early detection that are relevant to the study of BRCA1/2 will be considered. The Basser Cancer Interception Institute focuses on funding new endeavors in emerging, orthogonal fields beyond DNA damage (e.g. mechanisms of haploinsufficiency, cancer evolution and tissue tropism). 

Grants focused on the following are of particular interest:

• Cancer interception and the pre-cancer disease state
• Issues relevant to men (including but not limited to prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, male breast cancer)
• Potential for translation into clinical practice
• Early detection

Grants that demonstrate a potential for translation into clinical practice will be prioritized for funding.

Early career awards for Fellows, Postdocs and Instructors

Early career awards for Fellows, Postdocs and Instructors up to $100,000 for one year. Grants are eligible for competitive renewal upon reapplication and are contingent on progress the first year.

The Community Care Grant, offered by the Banfield Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations and local/state government agencies in providing affordable veterinary care to owned pets. Since 2015, the foundation has aimed to enhance preventive care through grants and partnerships, helping pets in crisis and underserved communities across the U.S. This initiative ensures that essential veterinary services are accessible to all pet owners, fostering a better world for pets.

The FWW Research Award supports innovative, short-term studies aimed at enhancing women's health, particularly in areas such as cardiovascular disease, female cancers, and hormonal impact on health. Eligible applicants include MDs and PhDs affiliated with accredited institutions. The program prioritizes research with direct clinical applications and seeks proposals that promise to attract additional funding for further study. Notably, sociological research is excluded from funding consideration.

The ASPECT program, initiated by the DOE, aims to bolster the U.S. energy future by enhancing domestic critical mineral supply chains and developing innovative chemical technologies. This Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) invites proposals for research and pre-pilot testing of technologies that convert alternative and waste feedstocks into valuable chemicals. By offering distinct pathways for technologies at various stages of development, the program seeks to advance solutions that contribute to sustainable energy practices and promote resource efficiency.

The Family Medicine Cares USA Free Health Clinic Grants support existing clinics in providing care to the uninsured. Grants of up to $10,000 are available if funds permit, prioritizing clinics with AAFP members in leadership roles. The program emphasizes the involvement of Family Medicine residents or medical students as volunteers, aiming to enhance healthcare access in underserved communities.

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Fern Cousineau Duncan Art Scholarship

Mrs. Duncan was an art teacher at Wenatchee High School from 1929 to 1959. She also taught at Wenatchee Valley College until she retired. This scholarship, established by Ms. Duncan’s will, supports graduating seniors from North Central Washington, with special emphasis on students who are pursuing a career in the field of art. As part of the application process, students must submit a portfolio of their work, which is reviewed by a panel of local artists.

The 21st Century Fellowship: Specialized Fellowship, offered by the Society for Ethnomusicology, aims to enhance ethnomusicological research by providing $7,500 awards to two Ph.D. students for dissertation fieldwork. Eligible applicants must achieve ABD status and conduct a minimum of six months of full-time research. Preference is given to onsite fieldwork and students from marginalized groups or those with limited funding for their research.

Evidence Based Safety Contextualization of JAK inhibitors in the Treatment of Moderate to Severe Atopic Dermatitis

Primary Area of Interest:

Dermatology – Atopic Dermatitis

General Area of Interest for this RFP:

Potential applicants should describe their initiative to synthesize the existing medical literature on the safety data available for JAKis indicated for the treatment of M2S AD and distill it into a concise, practical communication for the community of providers who treat AD. The educational initiative should be based on the body of scientific evidence available in the literature including the following, but not limited to:

• Retrospective, cohort analyses evaluating the background risk of adverse events of special interest (infections, cardiovascular events, malignancies etc.) in patients diagnosed with M2S AD.
• Clinical trial safety data for use of JAKis for the treatment of M2S AD, including assessments of subpopulations (i.e. adolescents, elderly; cardiovascular risk factors etc.).
• Observational analyses, network meta-analyses, or other safety analyses, including comparative safety analyses and/or real-world assessments to examine the rate of adverse events of special interest in patients receiving JAKis for treatment of AD.

Funding Range and Project Length

Individual projects requesting up to $75,000 USD will be considered. Maximum project length is 1 year.

The Dermatology Foundation offers a Research Grant of $25,000 annually to support innovative projects in dermatology and cutaneous biology. This funding is aimed at junior investigators in the early stages of their academic careers who demonstrate a strong commitment to skin research. Eligible applicants must conduct research within ACGME-approved departments in the U.S. and must not have received funding from other sources for the same project.

The AMVETS Spouse Scholarship offers financial support to the spouses of honorably discharged veterans and active military personnel, including National Guard and Reserves. This scholarship aims to bridge financial gaps after other federal and state resources have been exhausted. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens enrolled in accredited undergraduate programs, demonstrate financial need, and not be in default on federal student loans. AMVETS stands committed to empowering military families through education.