Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Maryland

The Emma M. Kirchhofer Scholarship Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, aims to empower graduating high school seniors from Columbia County to pursue their college education. Inspired by Emma's belief in personal growth and creativity through art, this scholarship encourages students to develop their talents in their chosen disciplines. With a commitment to community support and educational advancement, it reflects the foundation's mission of enhancing lives and promoting equity in opportunities.

The Berkshire Inspired Educational Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, aims to assist BIPOC and economically disadvantaged students from Berkshire County, MA, facing emergency financial needs. Inspired by local traditions of supporting educational aspirations, the fund provides vital financial resources for college-related expenses, ensuring these students can achieve their academic goals. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to community empowerment and economic mobility, reinforcing their mission to foster equitable opportunities for all residents.

The Antonio and Antoinette Pieropan Scholarship Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, supports local students from Stockbridge and West Stockbridge pursuing higher education. This fund prioritizes those in financial need, particularly encouraging vocational training in trades. It reflects the values of its namesakes, promoting independence and community contribution. Scholarships can be renewed annually through age 23, providing essential support for students seeking careers in technical fields and trades.

The Lemieux-Lovejoy Youth Scholarship, provided by the BPW/Maine Futurama Foundation, supports Maine women pursuing higher education. Established in 1962, this scholarship honors Rachel E. Lemieux and Arline Andrews Lovejoy, who were instrumental in its founding. Applicants must be Maine residents graduating high school and demonstrate financial need. This initiative aims to empower women and promote economic self-sufficiency, enabling them to achieve their educational goals and contribute positively to the community.

The BPW/Maine Futurama Foundation offers the Career Advancement Scholarship, a $3000 award aimed at women aged 30 and above residing in Maine. This scholarship supports those enrolled in accredited colleges or training programs, covering both full-time and part-time studies. It assists women in improving their skills for career advancement, whether entering a new field or re-entering the job market. Since 1962, the foundation has empowered women towards economic self-sufficiency.

The Maude MacKenzie Scholarship, offered by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs in Maine, provides $1,000 annually to a deserving student who has graduated from an accredited high school in Maine, demonstrating academic achievement, leadership, and community service. Applicants must be residents of Maine and accepted into a college or university. This scholarship aims to support students in their pursuit of higher education while promoting the values of commitment and service within the community.

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 Madalyn Sickafoose Educational Trust Fund

The Don and Madalyn Sickafoose Educational Trust Fund was established to assist students residing in southeastern Stark County, northwestern Carroll County and northern Tuscarawas County.

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

The James Henry Smith & Gladys Manning Smith Scholarship Fund aims to support students with financial need and strong character, helping them achieve a college education. This renewable scholarship offers annual funding, covering tuition, fees, housing, and books, with awards between $6,000 and $7,000. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors from Muscogee County, Georgia, maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and demonstrate community service. The scholarship reflects the Smiths' commitment to service and education.

The Helene Stoller Scholarship, established in September 2023 by Dr. Helene Stoller, aims to support students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math. This merit and need-based scholarship targets those with strong financial needs and academic excellence. Managed by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, it covers various educational expenses, ensuring equitable access regardless of race, gender, or background. Applications are reviewed by a dedicated committee to select deserving recipients.

The Swans Island Education Achievement Trust Fund, established in 1997 by the Maine Community Foundation, offers scholarship support to non-traditional residents of Swans Island pursuing further education beyond high school. This fund aims to assist those seeking college, vocational, or technical training, focusing on individual achievement, community service, and financial need. Scholarships may be renewable for up to four years, promoting educational advancement and community growth.

The M. Alton French Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation in 1983, offers renewable scholarships to residents of Lincolnville, Camden, Hope, Appleton, Rockport, Northport, and Islesboro pursuing post-secondary education. Awards are based on financial need, academic performance, and leadership potential. New applicants must participate in an interview in June. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering community development in Maine.

The American Italian Cancer Foundation (AICF) offers a prestigious International Post-doc Research Fellowship Program aimed at supporting innovative research in cancer biology and treatment. Open to Italian citizens with advanced degrees obtained within the last three years, the program encourages applications for both basic and clinical research. Typically, applications are accepted from January to February, with fellowships granted for one year, potentially extendable for a second year.

The Jane and Peter Weil Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation in 1983, supports graduating seniors from Washington County, particularly first-generation college students. This fund exemplifies strategic giving and community leadership, providing essential resources for students to pursue higher education. With a focus on personalized service and local expertise, the Maine Community Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals and families across the region through impactful charitable initiatives.

The Ira Cobe Scholarship Fund, established by the estate of Ira M. Cobe, supports educational expenses for Waldo County residents under 23. With a maximum award of $500, the fund promotes curriculum-based opportunities, including class trips and educational supplies. Eligible students must share costs and preference is given to those who haven't received funding this year. Proposals are reviewed on a rolling basis to ensure timely support for educational pursuits.

The Ira Cobe Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports Waldo County residents under 23 pursuing post-secondary education. Founded in 1983, this fund honors Ira M. Cobe's legacy, providing financial assistance for students in their second to fourth years of study. It aims to help those who may lack access to traditional scholarships and encourages local youth to achieve their educational goals.

The Gracie Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, aims to support natives of Washington County in their pursuit of post-secondary education and community service. Offering tuition reimbursement and school loan repayment awards up to $5,000, the fund encourages graduates to return to their roots and contribute to local development. Applicants must commit to living and working in Washington County for at least two years while fulfilling community service obligations, fostering a strong connection to their home.

The Friendship Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 1967 and managed by the Maine Community Foundation, supports high school seniors from Friendship, Maine, in pursuing post-secondary education. This scholarship aims to empower local students by providing financial assistance for their educational endeavors. Since its transition to the Maine Community Foundation in 2007, it has continued to foster educational opportunities for residents, ensuring that the legacy of community support remains strong.

The Tulsa Achievement Investment Scholarship of Kappa Alpha Psi, established by the Tulsa Community Foundation, supports collegiate members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. This scholarship targets students who graduated from Tulsa County high schools and plan to attend accredited colleges in the U.S. Founded in 1998, TCF is dedicated to enhancing community welfare through philanthropic efforts, investing in educational opportunities to foster growth and development in Tulsa and beyond.

The Terry Hessong Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Tulsa Community Foundation, supports students graduating from high school in Nowata County, Oklahoma. Established in 1998, the Tulsa Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing communities through charitable initiatives. This scholarship exemplifies their commitment to investing in local education and empowering the next generation. By providing financial assistance, the foundation aims to foster academic achievement and enrich the lives of students in the region.

The RAE Family Community Scholarship, established by the Tulsa Community Foundation, supports high school graduates from Mayes County, Oklahoma, seeking to enroll in undergraduate programs. Since its inception in 1998, the Tulsa Community Foundation has been dedicated to enhancing the community through charitable efforts and grants, ensuring that all individuals and families can thrive. This scholarship is a vital resource for students aiming to further their education and make a positive impact in their communities.

The Joyce Bright Scholarship Award, established by the Tulsa Community Foundation in 1998, aims to provide financial assistance for higher education to deserving students. Eligible applicants are high school graduates from Tulsa County, Oklahoma, who have demonstrated academic excellence by ranking in the top 3% of their class. This scholarship reflects the Foundation's commitment to empowering local communities and supporting educational aspirations.

The J.D. Fletcher Family Scholarship Award, established by the Tulsa Community Foundation in 1998, supports graduating seniors from Creek County, Oklahoma. Eligible applicants must plan to attend an accredited four-year college or university and pursue a bachelor's degree in science. This scholarship aims to foster education and empower local students to achieve their academic goals, contributing to a vibrant community and a brighter future.

Stark Community FoundationStark 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 Canton Advertising Federation Endowment for Creative Enrichment FundThe Canton Advertising Federation Endowment for Creative Enrichment Fund assists graduating high school seniors or current college students majoring in advertising, graphic design, communication or related fields. Applicants must reside in Stark County.Renewable Scholarship: Yes

The McClure Family Foundation Grant honors the legacy of Charles and Dorothy McClure by supporting nonprofit organizations that strengthen families and communities. The foundation aims to promote the arts, historic preservation, education, faith-based initiatives, and the well-being of mankind. Eligible applicants include public charities, governmental units, and established churches. The foundation values personal connections with applicants and encourages endeavors that foster community responsibility and individual leadership.

The Central States Manufacturing Scholarship Program, managed by the Tulsa Community Foundation, offers education scholarships to dependents of full-time Central States employees. This initiative encourages high school seniors and college students to pursue their educational goals by providing financial assistance for undergraduate studies. Established in 1998, the Tulsa Community Foundation supports charitable giving to enhance opportunities for the community and ensure future generations can meet their philanthropic needs.

Stark Community FoundationStark 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 Canton Professional Educators' Scholarships FundThe Canton Professional Educators’ Scholarships Fund was established to assist high school graduates enrolled in an academic plan (college/university, 2-year vocational, technical or advanced study). Applicants must be the natural or adopted child of a CPEA member, must have achieved a cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or above, and college students must be “a student in good standing.”Renewable scholarship: No

The U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation presents the Young Alumni Excellence Award to honor recent graduates who exemplify leadership, service, and excellence. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant professional or philanthropic contributions within 0 to 15 years of graduation. Nominees must maintain high standards of integrity and character, reflecting the prestigious values of the Air Force Academy while positively impacting their communities.