Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Maryland

The Scholarships for Careers Endowment, established by a local family in connection with the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains, aims to support graduates of Elk Lake School District and the Susquehanna County Career & Technology Center. This scholarship prioritizes students with financial need and promise for future success, assisting them in pursuing vocational, technical, academic, or other post-secondary programs. Additionally, it contributes to special projects within the school district and community.

The Fund for Teachers Fellowship empowers educators to design personalized learning experiences that enhance their professional skills and student engagement. With over 20 years of experience, this initiative has supported more than 10,000 teachers, enabling them to transform their classrooms through unique fellowship opportunities. Eligible applicants include full-time teachers in the U.S. who have at least three years of teaching experience and plan to return to the classroom after their fellowship. This fellowship fosters innovative teaching practices and collaborative growth.

The Maryland Forest Legacy Program aims to protect vital forest areas from conversion to non-forest uses through conservation easements. This federal initiative collaborates with state efforts to identify and preserve environmentally significant forests, with funding support where the federal government covers up to 75% of costs. Eligible areas must be designated Forest Legacy Areas, ensuring that at least 75% of the land remains forested. This program not only benefits wildlife but also supports local economies and water quality.

Taos Community Foundation

Taos Community Foundation is dedicated to serving the unique needs of the communities of Taos and western Colfax counties. Our philanthropic efforts support and enrich the lives and opportunities of citizens and protect the environment that sustains us. Our initiatives amplify donor investments, which directly and powerfully support growth in our community.

Edgar Meyer Scholarship

The Edgar F. Meyer Scholarship was established in 2022 by his family. Edgar F. Meyer was a distinguished biochemist, creative scientist and passionate educator who died in 2015. This scholarship is awarded in E.F. Meyer’s memory to students who are planning to study and build a career in the fields of healthcare and /or education and who show creativity, drive, and the ability to overcome hardship in pursuing their dreams.

The scholarship will be available to seniors graduating from Taos County High Schools who plan to pursue advanced studies by attending a 4 year college or university. The Scholarship will also consider those applying to 2 year vocational or trade schools.

The award is up to $4,000 paid out at $1,000 per year for up to 4 years for those students attending a 4 year institution or up to $2,000 paid out at $1,000 per year for 2 years for those students attending a 2 year institution if a 2.5 GPA is maintained and all other requirements are met.

The Centers of Excellence Program, funded by the US HHS: HRSA, aims to improve health professions education for under-represented minority individuals. It provides grants to health schools and organizations to enhance academic performance, expand clinical education, and strengthen faculty recruitment. This initiative promotes strategic partnerships to develop a competitive applicant pool and supports research on health issues affecting minority groups, ensuring better health outcomes and career opportunities in the health professions.

The Tartt Venture Group Scholarship Fund, established by Tartt Venture Group, aims to support students in good academic standing who demonstrate financial need. This scholarship is open to both undergraduate and graduate students across all majors, provided they are U.S. residents and enroll full-time at accredited institutions. Awards are based on academic excellence, community involvement, and the potential to be positive role models, thereby fostering a commitment to academic and community success.

The SODEXO Stop Hunger Classroom Challenge invites K-12 classrooms in the U.S. to enhance existing hunger relief initiatives, such as food drives and backpack programs, by making them more impactful and student-driven. This initiative not only addresses the critical issue of child hunger but also empowers students to take action and lead projects that foster community engagement and social responsibility.

The Nourishing Neighbors Innovation Incubation Fund RFP invites organizations to submit innovative proposals aimed at ending hunger. With flexible funding ranging from $50,000 to $300,000, this initiative encourages diverse ideas, whether small or large-scale. Organizations are required to have a panel of advisors with lived experience and must operate within the U.S. This grant focuses on creating sustainable solutions, ensuring communities can achieve self-sufficiency in food access.

The BISCUITS Grant, offered by Southern Vision Alliance, provides up to $5,000 to organizations with budgets under $300,000 that focus on building power through organizing and collective action. Recipients gain access to a supportive cohort and networking opportunities. Participation in two virtual gatherings and a $500 wellness stipend is included. This grant is aimed at new applicants or those who have submitted their final QMF reports, ensuring support for emerging grassroots organizations.

The Marliave Scholarship Fund, established in honor of Elmer C. Marliave and his family, supports students in Engineering Geology and Geological Engineering. This scholarship recognizes outstanding academic achievement and potential contributions to the profession. Awarded by the AEG Foundation, recipients are designated as "Marliave Scholars" based on their qualifications and involvement in professional societies. The program aims to foster excellence and commitment within the field, promoting future leaders in geoscience.

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities. Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

Scholarship Opportunities

The Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation manages one of the state's largest scholarship programs, awarding more than $500,000 in scholarships to local students each year. If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, it's likely we have a scholarship that can help you achieve your dream.

Verne and Ardith Forbes Scholarship

Awarded to a graduating senior of any high school program in Dell Rapids, SD, or a graduating senior from a public high school program in Huron, SD. This award is renewable for one additional year if requirements are met and if funds are available.

About the North Valley Health Education Foundation

The North Valley Health Education Foundation (NVHEF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health through education. Since its founding in 1973, the Foundation has supported students pursuing healthcare careers and strengthened communities across Northern California’s North Valley.

NVHEF serves as a regional connector—bringing together students, educators, healthcare institutions, donors, and community leaders who share a commitment to a strong and sustainable healthcare workforce.

Healthcare Scholarships

The North Valley Health Education Foundation (NVHEF) provides scholarships to students pursuing healthcare careers who are committed to serving Northern California communities. Our focus is on strengthening the regional healthcare workforce by supporting students in medical, nursing, and allied health programs.

Each year, NVHEF awards $20,000–$30,000 in healthcare scholarships to students enrolled in accredited programs who demonstrate academic commitment, community connection, and a passion for healthcare service.

Undergraduate Health Professions Scholarship

This application is for students pursuing undergraduate nursing and allied health programs through both 4-year and 2-year educational institutions, including BSN, ADN, and Allied Health pathways.

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

Chapman Family Scholarship Fund

For current year graduating seniors of any Washington County or Greene County high school who demonstrate financial need. Preference will be given to certificate, trade, or technical school applicants. Awardees may be eligible for up to three subsequent-year scholarships, provided they maintain eligibility.

Beckley Area Foundation

Beckley Area Foundation was established in January 1985 by ten community-minded citizens. It began with a gift of $1.1 million from the Dr. Thomas Walker Memorial Health Foundation as “seed” money for this Raleigh County project. BAF assets have grown to over $70 million with over 500 different funds managed by our three trustee banks. Today, Beckley Area Foundation is one of West Virginia’s largest community foundations.

Since its inception, BAF has distributed over $23 million to charities and other worthy projects in the fields of education, public recreation, health & human services, the arts, animal services and beautification.

Scholarships

The Beckley Area Foundation proudly manages scholarship funds established by individuals, businesses, and organizations dedicated to helping students pursue higher education. Many of these scholarships are tailored for specific schools, fields of study, or graduates from local high schools, while others offer broader opportunities. No matter the path, our scholarships aim to support students from our region as they work toward achieving their educational goals.

Most of these scholarships must be awarded to students from our geographic area or at least preference given to such students. While the majority of scholarships benefit Raleigh County applicants there are others designated for Fayette, Summers, Webster, and Wyoming students. 

Mary Louise Klaus Scholarship

A need and merit based scholarship; for Raleigh County, WV high school graduates continuing their education at any accredited vocational school, college or university.

This scholarship is renewable.

The Citizens' Institute on Rural Design (CIRD), a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and the Housing Assistance Council, invites rural communities to apply for design support. CIRD aims to enhance rural life and economic viability through planning and creative placemaking, empowering local citizens to address unique community challenges. Opportunities include Local Design Workshops and a Design Learning Cohort, providing resources, training, and support to foster community-driven solutions.

The Jonathan and Barbara Silver Foundation offers a $20,000 grant annually to support sculptors and writers on sculpture, promoting creativity and artistic development. This grant is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents, as well as O-1 Visa holders, who demonstrate a strong commitment to sculpture. Eligible expenses include materials, research, and living costs. The foundation values diversity and does not discriminate based on background, ensuring a wide range of applicants can apply.

The TKoster’s Charitable Innovated Health Care Award, established by Teresa Koster, aims to enhance students' access to quality health care. With a funding amount of $3,500, this award supports innovative practices in student health centers. It addresses critical areas such as understanding health care needs, improving service delivery, and leveraging technology. Eligible applicants include members of the American College Health Association, encouraged to demonstrate partnerships and financial support in their proposals.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

The Don Carano Legacy Scholarship

The Don Carano Legacy Scholarship was established to provide support for dependents of Caesars Entertainment Team Members who are a graduating high school senior or who are enrolled in a college or advanced learning program. The qualifying Team Member must be a Management Grade 14 or below, have minimum two (2) years of full-time service with the company, and be in good standing with no written discipline at the time of application.

Awards will be a fixed amount of $5,000; recipients may reapply for up to three (3) additional years. Scholarship awards will be distributed to any college, university, trade school, or degree-granting program for the student's benefit upon confirmation of enrollment, and upon completing and signing a scholarship acceptance agreement.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

The Finchum Family Scholarship

The Finchum Family Scholarship is designed to support students who are graduates of high schools in Douglas, Carson City, Lyon, Storey, Chuchill, Pershing, Humboldt, or Lander counties or who have received their high school equivalency/GED in Nevada, and plan to attend or are currently attending a trade or vocational school, community college, or 2- or 4- year institution in state or out of state. Preference will be given to students who demonstrate significant financial need, those with barriers or hardships that have made it difficult to attend school, and non-traditional (trade/vocational studies) students. This is a one-time award of $1,000 or more, with the potential to be renewed with reapplication. Students may reapply throughout their time in college, but can only receive the scholarship for a total of two years.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

The Orlo M. Kintz and Stanley M. Kintz Memorial Scholarship Endowment

The Orlo M. Kintz and Stanley M. Kintz Memorial Scholarship supports outstanding students who demonstrate both academic excellence and dedication to community service.

The Orlo M. Kintz and Stanley M. Kintz Memorial Scholarship Endowment is named after the mother and brother of Rosalie Quesnoy, a passionate educator who taught 7th grade math in Palo Alto, CA. She was a teacher who went the extra mile for her students, and now whose legacy will be carried forward for northern Nevada students pursuing their postsecondary education. This scholarship is designed for students with a high level of academic achievement and community involvement, who plan to attend a school that has a strong program for their chosen major. Students must have a clearly demonstrated financial need. This scholarship is for students who plan to attend a college or technical program that is one, two, or four years. Multi-year scholarships may be awarded. 

Willis H. Jondahl Memorial Fund Scholarship

This fund is created to promote continuing educational opportunities for obstetrical nursing personnel of Cameron County hospitals, and midwifery education or training to promote the best possible nursing care for obstetrical patients.

The course(s)/seminar must be from an accredited source, offering  CEU’s, and must be expected to reasonably improve the employee’s  performance in the OB/GYN area.

Must achieve a grade "C" or above on graded courses and must file  documentation of grade(s) received with the Jondahl Fund Committee. 

For non-graded courses (seminars/workshops) documentation of  attendance must be filed, and CEUs earned.

EverGreen Dreams

“Empowering young Black women to achieve educational excellence and unlock their limitless potential.”

Today, EverGreen Dreams is a community rooted in hope, equity, and empowerment. Our work centers on providing the resources, mentorship, and opportunities Black women need to thrive. We believe education is more than a pathway to success—it’s a tool for liberation and a foundation for transformation. By investing in the education and development of Black women, we’re dismantling systemic barriers and planting seeds of possibility that will grow for generations.

Building Opportunities for Sistas to Shine (B.O.S.S.) Scholarship

Introduction

Black women navigate systemic barriers in education and the workplace every day. EverGreen Dreams exists to change that narrative. As an organization founded by a Black woman and championed by advocates deeply rooted in our communities, we're committed to creating pathways to success for the next generation of Black female scholars. Through the Building Opportunities for Sistas to Shine (B.O.S.S.) Scholarship, we provide financial support to two graduating high school seniors, awarding each at least $1,000 to help them pursue their educational dreams with one less obstacle in their way.

Description

The Building Opportunities for Sistas to Shine Scholarship (B.O.S.S.) aims to make racial equality a reality by helping outstanding Black cis or transgendered women high school students achieve their dreams to continue their education. 

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

The First Responders Children's Foundation Scholarship Fund offers college scholarships to children of first responders, emphasizing financial need and academic merit. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7, provide a current transcript, and demonstrate community involvement. Scholarships are renewable for up to four years based on eligibility criteria. Preference is given to students whose parents have experienced line-of-duty disabilities or deaths. This program supports the educational aspirations of those who have sacrificed for their communities.

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 West-Gray Scholarship Fund, established in 2014, supports undergraduate and graduate students in applied geology who demonstrate academic excellence and are members of the Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists. This fund aids students conducting field studies in environmental and engineering geology particularly in the eastern United States, fostering future professionals in the field.

The USEA Foundation has established the TEAPRO Grant (Training and Education in the Art of Pace and Riding in the Open), which is available to organizers, trainers, education groups and others to support opportunities for riders and horses to practice galloping, trot sets, and other forms of riding in the open as well as learn about fitness and conditioning for both horse and rider. The aim is to further education in these skills and to support many of the sport's stakeholders in doing so— riders, horses, trainers, organizers, coaches, clinicians, etc. Examples include funding for: a clinician to conduct a session on how to gallop horses in the open; a clinic where riders work to develop a feel for pace at walk, trot and canter over terrain; a seminar to educate riders on how to safely and effectively build the fitness level of their horse and themselves; portable steeplechase jumps that will be used to create a steeplechase course at one or more facilities; offsetting costs for the equipment required to accurately measure and set up a galloping or trot set track.Grant Funding: Grant funds will be awarded to address specific funding needs up to a maximum of $3,000 per applicant. Total awards per year shall not exceed $8,000.