Best Financial Assistance Grants in Massachusetts

The PEN/John Kenneth Galbraith Award for Nonfiction, offered by PEN America, recognizes a distinguished book of nonfiction published annually. This prestigious award, which includes a $10,000 prize, honors works that exhibit notable literary merit and critical perspectives on contemporary issues. Eligible authors, regardless of citizenship, must have published their book in the previous calendar year. This award highlights the importance of intellectual rigor and stylistic elegance, echoing the legacy of economist John Kenneth Galbraith.

The PEN/Jacqueline Bograd Weld Award for Biography, presented by PEN America, recognizes outstanding literary works in biography published in the U.S. during the previous year. With a prize of $5,000, this award celebrates authors who demonstrate exceptional narrative and artistic merit through scrupulous research. Since its inception, PEN America has awarded over $370,000 annually, supporting diverse voices in literature and promoting the freedom of expression.

The PEN/E.O. Wilson Literary Science Writing Award honors outstanding writing that effectively communicates complex scientific ideas in an accessible manner. Established by Dr. Edward O. Wilson and supported by notable figures, this award recognizes a single, living author for their work published within the calendar year. The winner receives a $10,000 cash prize, celebrating excellence in the literature of the physical and biological sciences.

The PEN/Diamonstein-Spielvogel Award for the Art of the Essay, established by PEN America, honors a distinguished writer whose collection of essays expands their body of work. This prestigious award, with a cash prize of $15,000, recognizes books of individual essays that can explore a specific theme or a variety of subjects. Eligible candidates must be U.S. residents and cannot be debut authors, ensuring the award celebrates established voices in the literary community.

The PEN/Voelcker Award for Poetry Collection, established by a bequest from Hunce Voelcker, is presented annually by PEN America to recognize a distinguished collection of poetry published in the calendar year. This award honors the importance of poetry collections as an art form and is open to all U.S. residents or citizens, regardless of age or poetic style, with a cash prize of $5,000. It aims to celebrate and expand the scope of American poetry.

The PEN Open Book Award, presented by PEN America, recognizes literary works by authors of color published in the U.S. during the year. With a focus on diversity, it awards a $10,000 prize and a residency in Italy to authors who have not yet garnered significant media attention. This award promotes underrepresented voices in literature, celebrating fiction, nonfiction, and poetry that challenge the norms and enrich the literary landscape.

The PEN/Robert J. Dau Short Story Prize for Emerging Writers, awarded by PEN America, recognizes twelve emerging writers annually for their debut short story published in a literary outlet. Each winner receives a $2,000 cash prize, and their stories are published in an anthology by Catapult. The prize aims to foster new voices in fiction, inspired by Robert J. Dau's legacy, highlighting the importance of literary excellence and encouraging the next generation of writers.

The Daughters of American Agriculture Scholarship honors pioneering women in agriculture, offering two $1,000 scholarships to women or their daughters pursuing education in agricultural fields. Eligibility includes being a farmer, rancher, or related to one, demonstrating financial need, and having experience in agriculture. The Jean Ibendahl Scholarship supports young women aged 18-23, while the Sister Thomas More Bertels Scholarship is for women 24 and older. This initiative empowers the next generation in agricultural leadership.

L.L.Bean Charitable Donations supports outdoor initiatives that bring communities together. The program encourages partnerships with inspiring individuals and organizations. To apply, ensure requests are made at least eight weeks before the event. Please note that the program does not fund individuals, advertising, specific schools, or projects outside the U.S. For more information, visit their website to learn how to get involved.

The Live Arts Boston (LAB) Grants, supported by the Boston Foundation, empower performing artists in the Greater Boston area to innovate and create original work. With funding of up to $15,000, this program encourages artists and small organizations to explore new ideas and collaborations. LAB offers crucial resources such as project documentation, advising, and networking opportunities, fostering a vibrant arts community amidst ongoing social challenges. Artists are invited to apply and contribute to the cultural landscape.

The Equality Fund Grant aims to empower Greater Boston’s LGBTQ+ community by addressing racial and ethnic inequities through a proactive grantmaking approach. Established in 2012, the Fund supports organizations that provide vital services, focusing on marginalized groups. This year, grants range from $1,000 to $25,000 and prioritize initiatives that enhance healthcare access, housing stability, legal advocacy, and safe educational environments, fostering community and reducing social isolation.

The Morris Animal Foundation is dedicated to improving the health of animals through scientific research and funding. With a focus on domesticated cats, the Feline Health First Award supports innovative research that addresses the welfare of both community and pet cats. Grants are available for projects lasting up to 24 months, with a maximum budget of $120,000. This initiative encourages collaborations that translate research findings into practical applications for veterinarians and cat caretakers.

The Veterans Cemetery Grants program, administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, provides financial assistance to establish, expand, and improve Veterans cemeteries across the United States. With over $910 million awarded, this initiative ensures that state and tribal governments can maintain these sacred sites, supporting the interment of Veterans and their eligible family members. Grants cover up to 100% of project costs, reinforcing the commitment to honor those who served.

The Morris Animal Foundation offers the Annual Feline Health Pilot Study Award to support innovative research that enhances the health and welfare of domesticated cats. This funding is aimed at proof-of-concept studies, advancing animal health research through collaborative projects. With a maximum funding of $20,000 for a 12-month duration, the foundation seeks proposals that have a significant impact on both scientific and community stakeholders, ensuring a healthier future for feline populations.

The Morris Animal Foundation offers the Annual Feline Proposals: Feline Health Established Investigator Award to support research aimed at improving the health and welfare of domesticated cats. Established in 1948, the foundation funds innovative, hypothesis-driven studies that demonstrate high scientific merit. This grant encourages collaboration between academia and industry and has a maximum project duration of 36 months, with average awards around $100,000. Eligible proposals should focus solely on domesticated cats, excluding other feline species.

The Morris Animal Foundation invites proposals for the Feline Health Fellowship Training Award, aimed at advancing the health and welfare of domesticated cats. This program supports new investigators by providing salary funds in a mentoring environment. Proposals should focus on hypothesis-driven research with high scientific merit, targeting community and pet cats (Felis catus). The maximum award duration is 24 months, with budgets not exceeding $145,000. Join us in making impactful contributions to feline health.

The Limited Competition grant supports High Impact Specialized Innovation Programs to enhance clinical and translational science capabilities at UM1 CTSA Program Hubs. Eligible applicants include primary UM1 CTSA hub organizations, aiming to address significant gaps in research and development. Successful proposals will foster foundational innovations for broader dissemination among CTSA hubs, paving the way for future advancements in clinical practices and research methodologies.

U.S. Venture Sponsorships, supported by the Us Venture Schmidt Family Foundation, aim to enhance community engagement by addressing the root causes of poverty through collaboration and social innovation. Grants typically do not exceed $10,000, ensuring that eligible public charities, especially those with 501(c)(3) status, can benefit. Each organization can receive one sponsorship grant annually, reflecting U.S. Venture's commitment to giving back and fostering meaningful partnerships.

The AΩA Fellows in Leadership Program, established by the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, aims to cultivate leadership skills among mid-career medical professionals. Recipients receive $30,000 to develop a year-long project focused on enhancing their leadership capabilities. This initiative emphasizes servant leadership and innovative thinking, addressing the increasing complexities in healthcare. The program seeks to empower leaders who can effectively navigate the evolving landscape of medicine while promoting the core values of the AΩA society.

The Excellence in Medicine Awards, presented by the AMA Foundation, honor exemplary physicians and medical advocates committed to volunteerism, community engagement, and leadership. Since 2005, this prestigious program has celebrated over 100 honorees, recognizing their vital contributions to underserved populations. Awardees receive a $2,500 grant honorarium to support a nonprofit health organization of their choice, collectively awarding over $250,000 to enhance community health and promote equitable care across the nation.

The Aging Research Dissertation Awards aim to enhance diversity in the scientific workforce by funding research on aging and related health conditions. The program encourages applicants from underrepresented backgrounds to apply for dissertation awards that align with the National Institutes of Health's strategic priorities. Key deadlines for applications include February 16, June 16, and October 16 for the years 2024 through 2026.

The BRAID Fellowship, initiated by Interfaith America, addresses rising prejudice in higher education by fostering a national network of undergraduate student leaders. This program empowers students to promote respect and cooperation across diverse backgrounds. Each fellow receives a $1,000 project award and a $2,000 stipend, along with opportunities for specialized training and community engagement. Through this initiative, Interfaith America commits to cultivating a diverse cohort that represents a wide range of religious and ideological perspectives.

The Leifur Eiríksson Foundation Fellowship supports U.S. and Icelandic scholars in graduate research or study exchanges between the two countries. Applicants must be enrolled in accredited institutions and demonstrate a well-defined research project. The fellowship covers up to $25,000 in costs, including travel. The program promotes academic collaboration and cultural exchange, helping scholars enhance their education while fostering international relationships. Applications must be submitted by the deadline with all required documentation.

The B.A.A. Gives Back Grant Program, established by the Boston Athletic Association, supports nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts that promote health and fitness through running. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 are awarded annually to initiatives that enhance community engagement and wellness. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) registered or public agencies and align with the B.A.A.’s mission to foster healthy lifestyles. This initiative plays a crucial role in expanding access to sports and building vibrant communities across Greater Boston.

The Joan Mitchell Fellowship supports 15 US-based artists in painting and sculpture with $60,000 over five years. It offers crucial financial resources, skills development, and community building. The fellowship also includes workshops, consultations, and opportunities for residencies, particularly for those in their fourth year or beyond. The program emphasizes diversity, encouraging nominations from underrepresented artists to foster a rich cultural discourse in the arts.

About Decatur County Community Foundation

Decatur County Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter. 

Our Mission

To inspire the generosity of our community to create a lasting impact.

​We help visionary donors practice highly effective charitable giving; award grants to not-for-profits doing good in the community; award scholarships to ease the financial burden of education for students; provide leadership to make Decatur County a better community.

Online Scholarships

The following scholarships are managed by the Decatur County Community Foundation. Complete details for each scholarship are available on the individual online scholarship application.

Don and Barb Horan Memorial Scholarship

The mission of this scholarship is to help a student residing in Decatur County that will graduate from Oldenburg Academy.

The Alford Family Golf Scholarship

This scholarship is given in honor of the Alford Family and provides scholarship support to one male and one female varsity golfer who will continue to play at the NCAA Division II or III level.  

Consideration is given to the following verifiable and documented criteria:

• GPA and Class Rank.- Quality of reference letters.- Examples of an applicant's ways of giving back to the game of golf besides playing the game.- Leadership qualities with examples applicable to the applicant's team and as an individual.- Examples of sportsmanship as a player and integrity as a person 

Awards

• 2 , $1000