Best Grants for Community Centers in Massachusetts

NASA's Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute Cooperative Agreement Notice-5 invites multi-institutional proposals aimed at advancing human exploration of the Moon and Mars. This initiative focuses on innovative research to address critical scientific questions and develop technologies for future missions. The program emphasizes community development, training the next generation of scientists and engineers, and fostering partnerships to integrate science with exploration goals.

The Russell Sage Foundation’s Core Research Grants program addresses social, political, and economic inequalities in the U.S. It investigates the factors contributing to these disparities and their impact on various outcomes, including education and civic participation. Launched in 2001 and renamed in 2018, the program aims to enhance understanding of how inequalities affect mobility and representation. Researchers with a doctorate or substantial experience are encouraged to apply, fostering high-level scholarly research in this critical field.

The Elizabeth Hurlock Beckman Award Trust Grant honors educators who inspire students to create impactful organizations or movements. Established in 2008, the trust has awarded over $3.5 million to 148 professors across the U.S. The grant primarily supports those teaching in psychology, medicine, or law, emphasizing the importance of community contribution. Eligibility is limited to U.S. citizens or permanent residents who have inspired their former students to make a difference.

The Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fund Fellowships provide financial support for U.S. citizens pursuing graduate studies in various fields at accredited institutions. The fellowships cover tuition and offer an annual stipend of $18,000 for living expenses. Candidates must demonstrate financial need and have an outstanding undergraduate record. Applications are submitted through the dean of the university, with deadlines in January and notifications by mid-June. This program honors Dolores Zohrab Liebmann's legacy of supporting education.

The William Simes Research Fund, established in honor of Frances Simes Hastings, supports graduate students and postdoctoral researchers conducting field research at Hastings Natural History Reservation in California. Awards of $2,000 are available to offset costs related to housing and research supplies for extended research periods. This fund fosters scientific inquiry at one of the oldest field stations in the University of California Natural Reserve System, promoting the stewardship of diverse natural habitats.

The NRF Foundation Ray Greenly Scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in digital retail-related fields such as technology and supply chain. Established in memory of Ray Greenly, this scholarship aims to empower ambitious students with the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit to innovate in retail. Eligible candidates must be undergraduate students with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and relevant internship experience. The application deadline is November 3rd, providing a unique opportunity to attend the NRF Foundation Student Program in New York City.

Community Foundation of New Jersey

Over our 46-year history, the Community Foundation of New Jersey has collaborated with individuals, families, organizations, and businesses to design charitable funds and implement the philanthropic solutions they want to see in their communities. We leverage $1.17 billion in assets and 1,200 funds to help our partners think boldly and creatively about ways to give.

Scholarship Fund Overview

Beyond a shared commitment to educational opportunity, families establish scholarship funds with a variety of goals and purposes in mind. They may offer traditional scholarships or customize fund awards for alternative scholarships.

Currently, CFNJ administers more than 135 scholarship funds. Our scholarship opportunities run the gamut, from those exclusive to a local high school or geographic region to those supporting specific majors or career pursuits. Last year, we awarded over $2 million in scholarship assistance to 271 scholars.

Applicants may be evaluated on academic performance; extracurricular activities; community involvement; paid or unpaid work; and a statement of their personal aspirations, educational goals, and demonstrated unmet financial need in our scholarship review process.

David H. Roe Scholarship

This scholarship assists graduating high school seniors from the Greater Newark area who plan to pursue an undergraduate degree in mathematics, physics, biology, botany, or chemistry. Applicants must have been accepted to a four-year accredited college/university within the United States and must be entering their freshman year in the fall. If you have not yet been accepted to a college or university, please do not apply at this time. Scholarships are based on merit and unmet financial need.

The FY 2027 Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) FAA Contract Tower Competitive Grant Program offers up to $100 million for airport traffic control tower projects. This initiative aims to support airports in modernizing and repairing aging infrastructure, ensuring safety and efficiency in air traffic management. Eligible projects may involve construction, rehabilitation, or installation of essential air traffic control equipment, enhancing the operational capabilities of the nation's airports.

The Smith Family Foundation offers Small Capital Grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 to support tax-exempt nonprofits in Greater Boston and Gateway Cities. These grants aim to strengthen nonprofits' capacities for one-time capital expenses, addressing critical needs in economically disadvantaged communities. With a mission to promote positive change, the foundation prioritizes organizations with operating budgets under $3 million, focusing on human services and community development.

The Gilead Foundation offers funding aimed at creating equitable health opportunities for all. Through its Giving Together Program and the Creating Possible Fund, it mobilizes resources to support community organizations that address health disparities and promote education equity. By fostering employee volunteerism and matching contributions, the Foundation actively engages in building healthier communities. This holistic approach seeks to dismantle barriers to health access, ensuring a sustainable impact on individuals and communities.

The Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Program invites applications to enhance clinical and translational science through innovative partnerships and research programs. This initiative aims to accelerate the delivery of treatments to diverse populations by improving clinical research efficiency, creating national resources for public health responses, and providing training for clinical research professionals. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time, with optional Letters of Intent recommended 30 days prior to the full proposal deadline.

The I Could Do Great Things Foundation is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations with innovative ideas that have a charitable purpose. By providing financial support and encouragement, the foundation aims to help transform great ideas into reality. There is no deadline for applications, making it accessible for anyone with a fresh approach to apply. The foundation prioritizes projects related to education, community, and Jewish causes, ensuring that the impact is meaningful and far-reaching.

Promega Corporate Giving is dedicated to advancing science and improving life globally. With over 45 years of experience, Promega supports initiatives in science, education, and creativity, focusing on innovative solutions and community wellness. They fund organizations in the U.S. and Canada that prioritize experimental initiatives while steering clear of political, religious, and fraternal causes. Their commitment lies in fostering long-term contributions from scientists to meet future global needs.

The Ambler Trust Grants, provided by the Elizabeth Raymond Ambler Trust, support various sectors including education, health, arts, culture, and environmental initiatives. Eligible applicants include municipal, religious, charitable, benevolent, or educational organizations as determined by the Trustees. These grants aim to enhance community welfare and promote beneficial projects, ensuring a positive impact across diverse fields.

The Betty H. King Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides two renewable $1,000 scholarships for female high school seniors from select Missouri counties. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, enroll in at least 12 credit hours, and plan to major in Education, Engineering, Math, or Science. Applications require a transcript, personal essay, and details about community service involvement.

The Kettering Family Foundation, established in 1956, supports diverse charitable activities across various sectors, including arts, education, health, and human services. Applicants must have a valid 501(c)(3) status and discuss proposals with foundation staff before applying. Only one application is allowed per year, and specific exclusions apply, such as for religious purposes and individual grants. The foundation emphasizes meaningful community impact, making it a vital resource for eligible organizations.

The Ralph M. Knight Chemistry & Engineering Scholarship, established in 2010 by Nancy Knight, honors her late husband, Ralph. This scholarship is aimed at full-time seniors in Catholic high schools within the Diocese of Phoenix who are practicing Catholics and U.S. citizens. Awardees receive a one-time $5,000 towards freshman-year tuition at a four-year college or university, provided they major in chemistry or engineering.

The Wan Chen and Ming Li Scholarship for International Study at WMU's College of Education and Human Development supports undergraduate and graduate students in non-English based study abroad programs. Applicants must be U.S. residents, enrolled in CEHD, and submit proof of acceptance into an international program along with a proposal outlining the experience's benefits for their academic and career goals. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities and make studying abroad more accessible.

The Research on Research Security Program, funded by the National Science Foundation, aims to foster collaboration between STEM researchers and research security practitioners. It encourages interdisciplinary approaches to enhance evidence-based research on security issues. Proposals can include conferences, workshops, and planning grants, as well as international partnerships, to address U.S. concerns in research security. This initiative is vital for developing a robust community in this emerging field.

About Boeing

A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Our U.S. and global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture based on our core values of safety, quality and integrity.

The Employees Community Fund (ECF) of The Boeing Company

One of the largest employee-managed funds of its kind in the world, the Employees Community Fund (ECF) of The Boeing Company has empowered employees to make a greater impact by pooling their tax-deductible donations for more than 60 years. Employee-led grantmaking committees at 20 Boeing sites provide combined employee donations to nonprofits in their communities through ECF grants.

Charitable or educational organizations can apply for grants from the Employees Community Fund (ECF) of The Boeing Company.

Puget Sound Chapter

The Employees Community Fund (ECF) of Boeing Puget Sound is a pooled fund consisting of recurring payroll contributions from generous Boeing employees. It funds local nonprofits that help thousands of families and individuals in the Puget Sound region where Boeing employees live and work.

ECF focus areas

ECF makes grants to 501(c)(3) Health & Human Service nonprofits such as food banks, job-training programs, shelters, transitional housing, mental health services, and low-income medical clinics. ECF seeks the direct client benefit of each grant to ensure that our employees’ contributions directly help those in need.

ECF funding criteria

ECF has two distinct grant categories – Supporting Grants and Capital Campaign Grants.

ECF of Boeing Company: Puget Sound Chapter Supporting Grants

Consideration is given to nonprofits/agencies that are performing well and are seeking to upgrade, replace or modify elements of their infrastructure.

• Supporting grants cannot exceed $50,000. The requested amount cannot be more than 10% of an agency’s gross annual revenue.
• Supporting grants will be considered only for agencies benefiting residents in the Puget Sound Region.
• Supporting grants help agencies continue to effectively provide services through enhanced direct client benefit by aiding them in procuring and/or paying for items such as:
  • Equipment (ex. office, kitchen, industrial, furniture, etc.)
  • Vehicles used to support clients and/or transport food and/or goods (cost of vehicle and accommodations, tax, and licensing only; operating expenses, such as insurance, fuel, etc. is not allowed)
  • Phone systems
  • Cell phones for direct client use
  • Remodels and/or renovations (must hold at least a 10-year lease or own the building)
  • Purchase or construction of new buildings
  • Computers or tablets for direct client benefit and/or use
  • Software for direct client benefit and/or use (ex. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device)
  • Information Technology expenses, without which procured tools would not work
  • External improvements for client safety (i.e. security system, exterior lighting, improved ADA accessibility, new or refinished pavement or concrete)
• Supporting grants which are accepted must be spent as approved within nine (9) months.

The XENO PRIZE for Artists’ Books offers a $5000 grant to support the publication of an artist's book addressing the themes of book banning and burning. Open to independent artists in the U.S., the prize will be awarded based on submissions to be accepted starting March 1, 2025. A minimum of 100 copies must be printed, with winners announced in September 2025. This initiative aims to highlight and preserve avant-garde art forms and their cultural significance.

The DARPA Tactical Technology Office (TTO) seeks innovative proposals to enhance national security through cutting-edge technology. This initiative focuses on Design/Build/Buy, Surge and Sustain, Long Range Effects, and Disruptive Innovation. By fostering rapid adaptation and sustainable force structures, TTO aims to demonstrate revolutionary systems that are not only effective but also affordable and responsive to emerging challenges.

The Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation, established in 1951 in Oklahoma, aims to support charitable organizations across the U.S., with a focus on education and local initiatives. Grants are awarded to qualified 501(C)(3) organizations, prioritizing projects that align with the foundation's mission in areas such as education, health, arts, and literacy. Interested applicants must submit a Letter of Inquiry before applying for funding, ensuring alignment with the foundation's priorities.

About Us

The Wenner-Gren Foundation is a private operating foundation dedicated to providing leadership in support of anthropology and anthropologists worldwide.

Our Mission

The Wenner-Gren Foundation is committed to playing a leadership role in anthropology. We help anthropologists advance anthropological knowledge, build sustainable careers, and amplify the impact of anthropology within the wider world. We dedicate ourselves to broadening the conversation in anthropology to reflect the full diversity of the field.

Fejos Fellowship in Public Media

General

Early career scholars frequently lack the time and resources needed to tell anthropological stories in registers other than print. Through this program, we support projects that will amplify the impact of anthropology through filmmaking, audio production, and other creative multimodal work.

The Foundation has no preference for any methodology, research location, or subfield. We encourage the use of novel approaches to anthropological communication to reach new audiences. Applicants should have proven expertise and a commitment to innovation in the medium in which they work. We encourage new solutions to the challenge of ethically representing diverse communities—for instance, by seeking their permission through public forums, promoting their greater involvement in the conception, production and/or distribution of audio/visual projects, guaranteeing their right to the materials produced, and releasing copyrights to them.

Award Money

Fejos fellowships provide up to $80,000 for a 9-month stipend, toward the completion of a film, video, audio, or other public media project that is based on anthropological research already completed by the applicant. Wenner-Gren awards do not include funds to cover institutional overhead or any fees related to the administration of our grants and fellowships.

The Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Grants aim to enhance the life-saving capabilities of public safety organizations. Established in 2005, the foundation supports funding for life-saving equipment, prevention education, scholarships, and disaster relief initiatives. Eligible applicants include public safety entities located within 60 miles of a Firehouse Subs restaurant. This program emphasizes early application submission, as only a limited number of applications are accepted quarterly.

The ISF Policy Scholarship Program offers financial assistance ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 for scholars dedicated to improving Muslim representation in media and government. Since 2009, ISF has awarded 747 scholarships to students in fields that influence public policy and opinion, such as political science and international relations. With a commitment to mentorship and real-world experience, ISF aims to foster positive narratives about American Muslims and encourage their involvement in the policymaking process.

Proteus Fund

Proteus Fund partners with foundations, individual donors, activists, and other allies to work strategically towards racial, gender, queer, and disability justice and an inclusive, fully-representative democracy. We curate an ecosystem of mutually reinforcing, aligned donor collaboratives and fiscally sponsored projects that deploy a creative array of strategies and tactics to further this vision.

RISE Together Fund: Small Grants

Call For Application

RISE Together Fund (RTF), an initiative of Proteus Fund, is announcing an open call for inquiries for our 2026 Small Grants Fund for U.S. public charity organizations or fiscally sponsored projects of such organizations, that support Black, African, Arab, Middle Eastern, Muslim and South Asian (BAMEMSA) communities.

As part of RTF’s commitment to prioritizing the needs and sustainability of the fields we collectively support, RTF will provide organizations with general operating grants to allow for organizational flexibility when possible. 

About RTF's Small Grants Fund

BAMEMSA movements have a strong history of organizing and collaboration, and are well poised with the knowledge, learning and experience to build an inclusive, multiracial democratic future and respond to the current unconstitutional threats facing the country. Through this fund, RTF aims to resource community power building organizations that use a multiplicity of approaches to create change rooted in the strength and leadership of BAMEMSA movements.

RTF supports groups that build community power, strengthen movement bases, defend civil and human rights including freedom of protest, speech, religion, and association, end the criminalization and surveillance of our communities, and respond to the rise in xenophobia, Islamophobia, and hate. RTF values groups that are intersectional in their approach and have or are developing sustainable long-term strategies to support BAMEMSA communities and movements.

Priority Issue Areas

• Protecting and advancing the rights of immigrant and refugee BAMEMSA communities by responding to harmful policies and practices, and strengthening community-led advocacy at the local, state, or federal level.

• Mobilizing BAMEMSA communities for nonpartisan civic engagement and election protection by increasing nonpartisan voter participation, combating voter suppression, and building sustained civic infrastructure ahead of, during, and between elections.

• Advocating for U.S. policy changes that end violence in Gaza and the West Bank by elevating Palestinian voices, influencing public discourse, and engaging in advocacy that shifts U.S. political, diplomatic, or funding decisions.

• Challenging harmful national security frameworks and their impacts on BAMEMSA communities by documenting, exposing, and organizing against surveillance, Islamophobia, and policies rooted in the War on Terror, particularly in the context of 9/11’s 25-year legacy.

• Responding to emerging opportunities and threats affecting BAMESMA communities such as influencing policy developments, addressing civic issues in the U.S., or developing narratives to change public discourse. This includes work addressing weaponizing issues around bodily autonomy and LGBTQ+ identity to fracture movements and communities.

Priority Strategies

RTF values organizations that take an intersectional approach and are intentionally building long-term community power. We prioritize support for groups that strengthen movement ecosystems, deepen their base, and defend the rights of BAMEMSA communities through the following strategies:

• Convening, Collaboration, and Movement Coordination: Bringing together organizations, leaders, and coalitions to align shared goals, coordinate strategies to advance shared visions, and reduce fragmentation across the field. This includes facilitating strategic convenings, developing platforms for collaboration, building cross-issue or cross-regional partnerships, developing shared agendas or issue campaigns, and strengthening trust and alignment among movement actors.
• Community Power-Building, Base Building, Civic Engagement, and Organizing: Expanding and activating a grassroots base within BAMEMSA communities to drive collective action and policy change. This includes community leadership development, public education campaigns, community organizing, nonpartisan voter engagement and election protection, and ongoing nonpartisan civic participation efforts that build sustained community power.
• Legal and Policy Advocacy Infrastructure: Advancing legal strategies and policy advocacy that expand and protect the rights of BAMEMSA communities. This includes impact litigation, legal advocacy, know-your-rights efforts, policy development, and advocacy at a local, state, or federal level.
• Communications and Narrative Strategy: Shaping public discourse and advancing narratives that reflect the experiences, dignity, and demands of BAMEMSA communities. This includes developing messaging strategies, producing and amplifying media, countering harmful or divisive narratives (including those targeting immigrants, religious minorities, LGBTQ+ communities, and reproductive rights), and increasing the voice share of BAMEMSA community members.
• Bolstering Movement Infrastructure: Strengthening the internal capacity and long-term sustainability of organizations and the broader movement ecosystem. This includes organizations supporting leadership development and pipelines, data and technology infrastructure, security and safety, and other core functions that enable groups to operate effectively and respond to evolving challenges.

Limited funding may be available for requests above $25,000.