Best Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Maryland

The McElhattan Foundation focuses on innovative solutions to end workplace fatalities by 2050. It invites proposals that develop new technologies, particularly those that eliminate dangerous tasks at work. The foundation partners with the National Safety Council’s Work to Zero program to enhance safety practices. Organizations seeking funding should be established non-profits with a history of successful collaboration, and grants typically start at $50,000. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, fostering impactful initiatives.

The Craft Research Fund Exhibition Grant provides up to $15,000 to support innovative exhibition research in craft scholarship across the United States. It aims to encourage critical explorations of craft theory, history, and practice, promoting new insights into American craft artists and their work. Eligible applicants include museum and gallery curators, as well as independent researchers. The program emphasizes cross-disciplinary approaches and requires financial remuneration for artists involved in funded projects.

The 1772 Foundation, in collaboration with the National Preservation Partners Network, is opening its 2026 grant cycle for Historic Property Redevelopment Programs (HPRP). This initiative aims to support nonprofit organizations in the U.S. focused on historic property revitalization. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) designation and be NPPN members. Grants typically range from $50,000 to $75,000, promoting sustainable practices that address community revitalization and heritage conservation.

The Overwatch Alliance Grants support non-profit organizations with annual revenues of $500,000 or less that aid military members, veterans, and their families. Grants of up to $15,000 are available for impactful projects such as emergency financial assistance, transitional housing, and employment support. Eligible organizations must be IRS-designated 501(c)(3) entities. The Alliance encourages applications from those addressing crucial veteran community needs while reinforcing the importance of community backing for capital projects.

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Howard and Edith Robertson Malvern Rotary Scholarship Fund

The Howard and Edith Robertson Malvern Rotary Scholarship Fund was established to assist graduating high school seniors who are residents of Brown Township in Carroll County, Ohio. 

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500

Renewable:

• Yes

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Don and Elsie Sickafoose Educational Trust Fund

The Don and Elsie Sickafoose Educational Trust Fund was established to assist students residing in Carroll County.

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

The Farmers Advocating for Organic Grant (FAFO) supports impactful projects that enhance the organic agricultural sector, focusing on initiatives that assist family farmers and promote organic soil health. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and research institutions. FAFO prioritizes projects that address the needs of organic dairy, meat, and produce farmers while fostering cooperative growth. This grant aims to strengthen the organic industry and ensure the livelihood of organic farmers across the nation.

About Us

For over three decades, the Hamilton Education Foundation (HEF) has been sparking innovation and expanding horizons within our classrooms. Since 1991, this community-powered non-profit has channeled more than $2.5 million from passionate individuals, local businesses, and forward-thinking organizations directly into the hands of Hamilton’s students and teachers. 

By funding transformative workshops, creative projects, and classroom grants, HEF doesn't just support education—it inspires students to dream bigger, rewards academic excellence, and builds a stronger, more vibrant community.

Our Vision

The vision of the Hamilton Education Foundation is to assist in achieving creative and academic excellence for the 21st Century through funding activities and projects for students and educators in the Hamilton School District.

Our Mission

Our mission, in partnership with the community, is to fund, Enhanced, Extended, and Enriched learning opportunities for students and educators in the Hamilton School District.

Teacher Grants

Educator Enrichment Grant

The Educator Enrichment Grant funds teacher participation in off-campus professional development, including seminars, workshops, conferences, and externships. 

Takeda Oncology offers grant funding opportunities aimed at addressing unmet educational and research needs in the medical community. They prioritize support for programs in hematology, thoracic, and gastrointestinal cancers, including lymphoma, leukemia, and previously treated metastatic colorectal cancer. Takeda encourages partnerships that enhance patient outcomes and provide tangible benefits through donations, grants, and sponsorships. Applications must be submitted at least 60 days prior to the program start date for timely review.

PetSmart Charities

We’re proud to celebrate over 30 years of being the leading funder of animal welfare in communities across North America. Since 1994, we’ve granted over $600 million to change-making organizations that help transform the lives of pets and those who love them.

Our Mission: We make the world a better place for pets by investing in community partners that advocate and care for the well-being of pets and all who love them.

Adoption Growth Grants 

Purpose

Adoption Growth grants drive lifesaving outcomes by supporting successful, sustainable in-store adoption programs, events, and results in partnership with PetSmart stores.

Funding Support

Funding may be used for costs associated with building or enhancing your organization’s adoption program in partnership with PetSmart stores, including:

• Staff positions supporting in-store adoption programs and events.
• Marketing and advertising for in-store adoption programs.
• Volunteer or foster support, incentives, and recruitment related to in-store adoption events.
• Event supplies, including containment and enrichment materials.
• Shelter software and technology needs.
• Vehicle repairs or transportation to adoption events.
• Innovative in-store adoption ideas and pilot programs.
• Other costs directly associated with facilitating PetSmart adoptions and in-store events.

There are two Cohorts under this funding: Cohort 1-  Accelerating in-store adoptions; and Cohort 2: Capacity Building.

Cohort 2: Capacity Building

Applicants must have completed at least one adoption in a PetSmart store within the last 12 months.

Preference will be given to organizations seeking to build a consistent, sustainable in-store adoption program. Applications should include a clear plan, with examples, for sustaining the program over time.

Four Required Steps

Applicants must complete all four required steps below before submitting a grant application:

• Step 1 - Watch the kick-off video and complete the Adoption Accessibility Questionnaire
• Step 2 - Confirm eligibility and connect with your Adoptions Grant Manager: After completing the questionnaire, you will receive an email confirming your eligibility. Eligible partners will be invited to a call with their Adoptions Grant Manager to discuss the grant opportunity, expectations, and potential fit.
• Step 3 - Engage your PetSmart store partners: Discuss your intent to apply, align on goals, and gain their commitment to support the success of your in-store adoption program.
• Step 4-  Submit your application.

PetSmart Charities

We’re proud to celebrate over 30 years of being the leading funder of animal welfare in communities across North America. Since 1994, we’ve granted over $600 million to change-making organizations that help transform the lives of pets and those who love them.

Our Mission: We make the world a better place for pets by investing in community partners that advocate and care for the well-being of pets and all who love them.

Adoption Growth Grants 

Purpose

Adoption Growth grants drive lifesaving outcomes by supporting successful, sustainable in-store adoption programs, events, and results in partnership with PetSmart stores.

Funding Support

Funding may be used for costs associated with building or enhancing your organization’s adoption program in partnership with PetSmart stores, including:

• Staff positions supporting in-store adoption programs and events.
• Marketing and advertising for in-store adoption programs.
• Volunteer or foster support, incentives, and recruitment related to in-store adoption events.
• Event supplies, including containment and enrichment materials.
• Shelter software and technology needs.
• Vehicle repairs or transportation to adoption events.
• Innovative in-store adoption ideas and pilot programs.
• Other costs directly associated with facilitating PetSmart adoptions and in-store events.

There are two Cohorts under this funding: Cohort 1-  Accelerating in-store adoptions; and Cohort 2: Capacity Building.

Cohort 1- Accelerating in-store Adoptions

Applicants must have completed 500 or more adoptions in a PetSmart store in the U.S. within the last 12 months.

Preference will be given to organizations that demonstrate a clear plan to expand an existing in-store adoption program or introduce new in-store adoption models that will increase adoptions.

Four Required Steps

Applicants must complete all four required steps below before submitting a grant application:

• Step 1 - Watch the kick-off video and complete the Adoption Accessibility Questionnaire
• Step 2 - Confirm eligibility and connect with your Adoptions Grant Manager: After completing the questionnaire, you will receive an email confirming your eligibility. Eligible partners will be invited to a call with their Adoptions Grant Manager to discuss the grant opportunity, expectations, and potential fit.
• Step 3 - Engage your PetSmart store partners: Discuss your intent to apply, align on goals, and gain their commitment to support the success of your in-store adoption program.
• Step 4-  Submit your application.

The Hearst Journalism Awards Program, established in 1960, offers scholarships for exceptional performance in journalism at the collegiate level, with a total of up to $700,000 in awards. This program includes various competitions across writing, photojournalism, audio, television, and multimedia formats. Open to undergraduate journalism majors and minors from accredited institutions, it encourages students to showcase their work and gain recognition in the field of journalism.

The Hearst Journalism Awards Program, established in 1960, supports undergraduate journalism education through a range of competitions and substantial awards totaling up to $700,000. Open to students enrolled in ACEJMC-accredited institutions, the program encourages excellence in writing, photojournalism, audio, television, and multimedia. With opportunities for individual and group submissions, it aims to foster talent and enrich the field of journalism, while the Hearst Foundation continues its legacy of educational philanthropy.

The Feasibility Clinical Trials of Mind and Body Interventions grant aims to support trials that examine complementary and integrative health approaches for high-priority NCCIH research topics. This opportunity seeks to gather essential data for designing future efficacy studies, focusing on aspects such as feasibility, acceptability, and recruitment strategies. The goal is to bridge gaps in scientific knowledge and enhance public health impact through rigorous clinical research. Applicants are encouraged to contact NCCIH representatives for guidance.

The NCCIH Multi-Site Feasibility Clinical Trials (R01) invites applications for clinical trials focused on mind and body interventions. This program emphasizes the need for multisite feasibility studies to gather essential data for future efficacy trials. The initiative is designed to enhance public health by addressing gaps in scientific knowledge related to the delivery, recruitment, and data collection of integrative health approaches. Deadlines for submissions range from February 2025 to October 2026.

The Folded Flag Foundation offers educational scholarships for college-bound spouses and children of U.S. military members and government employees who died due to combat-related incidents. This program supports tuition, fees, and living expenses for eligible applicants under 26 years old. It aims to assist families in achieving educational goals while navigating the challenges of loss. The scholarships cover various educational expenses, ensuring access to both college and technical training opportunities.

The TESOL Teacher of the Year Award, presented by National Geographic Learning, honors exceptional English language teachers who have demonstrated outstanding dedication in the classroom for at least three consecutive years. The winner receives $1,000, a one-year TESOL membership, and free registration for the TESOL International Convention, including travel accommodations. This recognition not only highlights the importance of teaching excellence but also fosters a community of learning and collaboration among educators around the world.

The Hemophilia Alliance Foundation's Impact Grants aim to support organizations enhancing services for individuals with inherited bleeding disorders. Since its inception in 2009, the foundation has awarded over $6.6 million, enabling innovative projects that expand capacity and collaboration. Eligible applicants include local organizations and federally-funded treatment centers, emphasizing creativity in project proposals. Priority will be given to initiatives that address unserved populations and foster educational advancements in the community.

The Kia Pet Adoption Grant, funded by the Petfinder Foundation as part of the Accelerate the Good program, supports organizations in the US, Canada, and Mexico with free or reduced-fee adoptions for dogs and cats. Grants are awarded monthly based on the number of adoptable pets listed on Petfinder.com until funds are depleted or November 1st. Grantees are required to report adoptions and share stories of pets adopted through this initiative.

The General Montgomery (Monty) C. Meigs Scholarship, offered by the Folded Flag Foundation, honors individuals who embody Monty Meigs' exceptional leadership and dedication. This scholarship is available to high school and college students who display academic excellence and commitment to service. Applicants must submit academic records, a recommendation letter, and a personal essay. Designed to support the next generation of leaders, this scholarship reflects Monty's legacy of service and achievement.

The NAPB Borlaug Undergraduate Scholars program, established by the National Association of Plant Breeders, aims to cultivate future leaders in plant breeding. Open to undergraduates in relevant disciplines, the program provides mentorship opportunities and financial support for travel to the NAPB Annual Meeting. Those eligible must be current undergraduates and may not have received similar scholarships previously. This initiative fosters professional development and engagement in the field of plant improvement.

Franklin County Retired Teachers Association Peggy Grate Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Franklin County Retired Teachers Association scholarship fund assists current teachers in a Franklin County public school system as they return to school to pursue their Master's degree.

Award Amount:

• Two $1,000 graduate level scholarships

Grand Traverse Regional Community FoundationThe Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.Home Builders' Association of the GT Area Scholarship Endowment (Regional)Available to residents from Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska or Leelanau Counties who are pursuing continuing education related to the home building industry.

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Carol Strip Whitney Scholarship

The Carol Strip Whitney Scholarship represents a life of passion, as she has taught gifted children for 45 years. Dr. Carol believes in the abilities of gifted children to make this world a better place. These children will be our leaders, our researchers, our inventors. It is her belief that an investment in their futures can only serve to awaken the important aspects of learning for the world of tomorrow. 

Applicants to the scholarship intend to be among the leaders of the next generation.

The Facilities for Atmospheric Research and Education (FARE) Program, managed by the National Science Foundation (NSF), supports advanced research in atmospheric sciences through specialized facilities like the Lower Atmosphere Observing Facilities (LAOF) and Community Instruments and Facilities (CIF). These resources enable the geosciences research community to conduct essential fieldwork and studies by providing access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and logistical support. Detailed information is available on the NSF website.

The Link Foundation offers the Ocean Engineering and Instrumentation Ph.D. Fellowship, providing six fellowships of $35,000 each for Ph.D. students. This fellowship aims to advance research in ocean engineering and instrumentation, enhance theoretical and practical knowledge, and promote research dissemination through lectures and publications. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in a Ph.D. program at a U.S. or Canadian university and demonstrate a well-defined thesis direction. This funding can significantly support their academic journey.

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Donald Franklin and Marilyn Good Holdren Scholarship

Marilyn Good Holdren was born in 1938 in Chillicothe, OH. She received her formal education at Huntington High School and Franklin School of Science and Arts. She served as a medical transcriptionist at Chillicothe Hospital for eight years, and spent the remainder of her life dedicated wo her work and friends at Battelle Memorial Institute. In 1963, she met the love of her life, Donald Franklin Holdren, and in 1975, they were married.