Best Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Massachusetts

The Zeller Summer Scholarship in Medicinal Botany, initiated by the Garden Club of America, supports US undergraduate students pursuing summer studies in medicinal botany. Established in 2003 in honor of Caroline Brown's family, the scholarship encourages students to engage in various educational projects and internships. Eligibility includes enrollment in an accredited US college, with restrictions on international applicants. This initiative fosters knowledge in the field, promoting environmental awareness and academic excellence.

The Joan K. Hunt and Rachel M. Hunt Summer Scholarship in Field Botany aims to promote the study of field botany among students in the U.S. by providing a $3500 annual grant for summer study opportunities. Eligible students include undergraduates and graduate students up to the master's degree level, who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. The scholarship encourages hands-on experience in various botanical projects, enhancing the understanding and appreciation of botany in horticulture.

The William Tucker Keene Memorial Scholarship, established by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, provides financial support to students who value education as a lifelong asset. Open to high school seniors, current college students, and adults returning to school, this scholarship aims to help those pursuing degrees or certificates. Since its inception, the Foundation has allocated over $50 million to enhance the quality of life within the community, underscoring its commitment to philanthropic efforts.

The ACS and EAST Health Policy Scholarship supports active surgeons who are members of the American College of Surgeons and EAST. It covers tuition and provides travel assistance, housing, and subsistence for the Executive Leadership Program in Health Policy and Management at Brandeis University. Scholars must commit to providing health policy-related assistance for a year and submit a report on their experiences. This opportunity is available for the June 2025 program, and only one award per applicant per year is permitted.

The Gosnold Community Scholarship, established by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, offers tuition assistance to individuals who have actively contributed to the Gosnold Community and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship aims to support high school seniors, college students, and adults returning to education for degree or certificate programs, fostering educational advancement and community engagement. With a commitment to philanthropy, the Foundation has distributed over $50 million to enhance the quality of life in the region since 1995.

Our Story

The IBMA Foundation was created by the International Bluegrass Music Association in 2007 with a bequest from the Richard Barnhart estate. Mr. Barnhart was a musician from northern Virginia who loved bluegrass and wanted to support educational programs for children. Since the beginning, our goal has been to support bluegrass-music-related educational, literary, artistic and historic preservation activities.

In our early years we produced Discover Bluegrass, an educational video that has been used in thousands of classrooms and libraries around the world. We have hosted dozens of teacher workshops and artist trainings. We created a bluegrass lesson plan competition and provided a network for leaders of after-school bluegrass programs.

Our project grants, which now total $25,000 a year, support bluegrass-related initiatives throughout the world. We also fund Bluegrass in the Schools Mini-grants ($7,000/year) which help schools to hire bluegrass bands for school programs. The Rosenberg Bluegrass Scholar Award recognizes excellence in academic research. Six college scholarships are granted for students working in various areas of the bluegrass music industry. The Arnold Shultz Fund supports increased participation of people of color in bluegrass music with grants that total $30,000/ year. Fletcher Bright Memorial Grants for Young Musicians (age 18 and younger) help young people go to bluegrass music camps and workshops, take lessons, and purchase educational materials.

The Sally Ann Forrester Scholarship

The Sally Ann Forrester College Scholarship is a $1,000 – $2,000 scholarship awarded to a female bluegrass musician. Students may be majoring in any subject, including bluegrass music. The IBMA Foundation administers the scholarship, which is funded by an endowment at the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. Sally Ann Forrester played accordion and sang as a member of Bill Monroe and His Blue Grass Boys from 1943-1946, thus becoming the first female professional bluegrass musician in history.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Toby Gamble and Janet Helen Tolan Gamble Educational Fund

Scholarship to benefit students graduating from an Anchorage high school who are interested in vocational studies, pre-med, law, theology, sports or other areas specified in the scholarship guidelines.

The Toby Gamble and Janet Helen Tolan Gamble Educational Scholarship was established at The Alaska Community Foundation in 2015, with the inaugural scholarship cycle beginning in the spring of 2018. The Gambles wanted to support the post-secondary goals of students in Anchorage, a place they made their home for nearly sixty years.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Tim Akers Memorial Scholarship Fund

A scholarship fund in memory of Tim Akers to support post-secondary education opportunities for Alaska Native students in the field of technology, education, or engineering.

The Tim Akers Memorial Scholarship supports outstanding Alaskan students in the pursuit of technology education and/or training. Tim Akers played an influential role in the development and production of the Prudhoe Bay Oilfield. Mr. Akers served as a mentor and role model for many young Alaskans with little or no experience working on the North Slope. His guidance helped to establish a solid core of exceptional Alaskan talent in the Prudhoe Bay workforce. Mr. Akers also served as President of the Chuloonawick Native Corporation.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Ron and Terri Davis Trades Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is established to help deserving students with financial need to complete a certificate or degree in the trades, including an applied Associates Degree leading to employment in the trades.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Lucile Hope Special Education Scholarship Fund

The Lucile Hope Special Education Scholarship was generously established in honor of Lucy Hope upon her retirement from the Mat-Su School District where she taught special education for many years and guided the administration of the special education program. It supports Alaskan students seeking post-secondary education in K-12 education with an endorsement in special education. The scholarship is open to students enrolled in an accredited university or college and who have completed at least their sophomore year pursuing a degree or endorsement in post-secondary education. 

The Gloria Belle Memorial Scholarship, established by the IBMA Foundation, honors pioneering bluegrass musician Gloria Bernadette Flickinger. This $1,000 annual scholarship supports students engaged in the bluegrass music community, either as performers or in supportive roles. With over $25,000 raised since June 2024, the scholarship aims to expand funding to $2,000 annually by 2025, promoting education and participation in bluegrass music.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

George & Stephanie Suddock Foundation Scholarship Fund

The purpose of the George & Stephanie Suddock Foundation Scholarship Fund is to provide graduating Alaskan high school students with the opportunity to pursue a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in the United States. The George & Stephanie Suddock Foundation prefer for the student to intend to return to Alaska if pursuing higher education out of state.

Awards will be given to a cohort of five (5) students from across the state of Alaska to ensure statewide representation.

Lilly Endowment Inc. focuses on enriching the religious lives of Christians in the U.S. by supporting diverse congregations and theological education. It aims to foster community development, youth education, and public understanding of religion. The Endowment prioritizes initiatives that improve life quality in Indiana while considering national projects that align with its mission. Notably, it emphasizes nurturing the faith of young people and ensuring all congregations have capable leaders to meet contemporary challenges.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Donald Giles Vocational Scholarship Fund

A scholarship fund created by Donald Giles to provide a scholarship to an eligible student residing in Petersburg, Seward or Homer Communities pursuing training, certification or a degree in vocational or trade studies.

Don Giles, the Former CEO of Icicle Seafoods got his start working the summers in Seward in the 1970’s and spent lots of time in Seward, Homer and Petersburg over the years. All three communities were very supportive and instrumental to the success of Icicle over the years. In speaking with Mr. Giles he stated, "I’m glad to be able to give something back to these wonderful communities There is a need and shortage of skilled vocational trade people in Alaska and hopefully this Scholarship will help jump start some young Alaskans into successful jobs and careers that are desperately needed in Alaska."

The Association of American Educators Foundation offers the National Teacher Scholarship to promote professional excellence among educators. This scholarship provides funding for various professional development opportunities, including conferences and learning materials, with awards up to $500. Available to full-time educators who haven't received AAE funding in the last two years, the scholarship aims to enhance the quality of education across the nation while supporting educators' growth and collaboration.

LeRoy T. Walker

LeRoy T. Walker (June 14, 1918 – April 23, 2012) was an icon. A noted author, professor, coach, and administrator in the disciplines of physical education and athletics, he was a barrier-breaking and remarkable human being who was dedicated to promoting and uplifting young people.

Walker was Chancellor Emeritus of North Carolina Central University (NCCU) in Durham, NC. He was elected President of the Athletics Congress (now USA Track & Field), the national governing body of USA Track & Field. Walker was elected President Emeritus of the United States' Olympic Committee (the first and only American to hold this position) and was a former president of AAHPERD (from 1977-1978, also the first African American to be elected to this position). Walker was inducted as a member into 17 Halls of Fame, awarded 16 Honorary Doctorates from a variety of institutions, and received numerous awards, including the Luther H. Gulick Award (1982), SHAPE America's highest honor.

The LeRoy T. Walker Young Professional Award

The LeRoy T. Walker Young Professional Award is given to a minority member of SHAPE America who is 36 years old or younger who has demonstrated superior promise in the areas of service, teaching, scholarship and commitment to the goals of SHAPE America focusing specifically on under-represented and/or underserved populations and promotion of diversity and inclusiveness. Not more than one LeRoy Walker Young Professional award shall be given annually.

The AMA Foundation's Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship, offering $10,000 in tuition assistance, is designed for medical students approaching their final year. This scholarship aims to support underrepresented groups in medicine, including African American, Latine, and Native American students, who are dedicated to serving underserved populations. Since 1950, the AMA Foundation has awarded over $61 million in scholarships, promoting diversity in the medical field.

The AMA Foundation's Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship provides $10,000 to medical students entering their final year. Since 1950, over $61 million has been awarded to support diverse medical students, particularly those underrepresented in the field. Applicants must show commitment to medicine and patient care, and all students from accredited U.S. medical schools can apply, regardless of AMA membership status.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Briggs Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Briggs Memorial Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to residents of Chugiak and Eagle River who demonstrate financial need.

The Briggs’s had a long affiliation with Chugiak High School and its graduates. During the early 1970’s, the Briggs family provided financial assistance to Chugiak graduates who, without their assistance, would not have had an opportunity to earn a college education. The only request attached to the “scholarship” was a Christmas card report on their progress and achievements. The intent of this scholarship is to provide assistance where there is definite financial need.

The AMA Foundation's Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship in Illinois offers $10,000 in tuition assistance to medical students nearing graduation. This prestigious program, established in 1950, has awarded over $61 million in scholarships, emphasizing diversity and support for underrepresented medical students. Eligible applicants must be Illinois residents, involved in organized medicine, and plan to practice in Illinois post-residency. This scholarship continues the AMA Foundation's commitment to advancing medical education and fostering a diverse healthcare workforce.

Sanofi Genzyme offers support for medical contributions aimed at Health Care Professionals and Scientific Experts, ensuring no direct benefits to the company. The program includes financial contributions for independent medical education, scholarships, fellowships, and research projects in therapeutic areas of interest. Sanofi maintains a hands-off approach, emphasizing the autonomy of recipients and the integrity of educational content. For more details, please refer to the Sanofi website.

The Association of American Educators Foundation offers classroom grants of up to $500 for full-time educators to support various educational projects and materials. These funds can be used for items such as books, software, and art supplies. Grants must be utilized within one year of approval, and competition is strong due to high application volumes. Note that applicants from specific states will not be eligible for national funding.

The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of International Labor Affairs has announced $11 million for a cooperative agreement to combat unfair labor practices and Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing in Indonesia and the Philippines. This initiative aims to protect American seafood workers by improving labor enforcement and addressing abusive practices in the global seafood supply chain, ultimately ensuring a fair competitive environment for U.S. businesses and their workers.

The "Opportunities for Collaborative Research with the NIH Intramural Research Program (U01 Clinical Trial Optional)" aims to foster partnerships between NIH intramural and extramural researchers. This initiative supports translational research projects that bridge basic biological discoveries and clinical applications, enhancing health outcomes. By encouraging collaborations, it seeks to accelerate the development of new therapies and prevention strategies, leveraging unique NIH resources to strengthen scientific innovation and address critical disease processes.

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Scholarships

The mission of the Marshfield Area Community Foundation is “Connecting people who care with causes that matter to enrich the quality of life in the Marshfield area”. Education is a valuable tool and a cause that matters to all of us. Through assisting students with financial support to receive an education, not only do students and the families of those students benefit, but also our community benefits, which further allows us to achieve our mission of enriching the quality of life in the Marshfield area.

Geographical Area

The official geographic service area of Marshfield Area Community Foundation, Inc., beginning to our west and traveling clockwise, includes the following communities in addition to Marshfield (It also includes towns and rural areas between these communities.): Chili, Granton, Neillsville, Loyal, Greenwood, Withee, Owen, Spencer, Unity, Colby, Curtiss, Pittsville, Abbotsford, Dorchester, Stetsonville, Medford, Stratford, Rozellville, Hewitt, Auburndale, Blenker, Milladore, Sherry, Arpin.

Jean Ebbe Visual and Performing Arts Scholarship

This scholarship is for a graduating high school senior attending an accredited school full-time, located in WI or MN pursuing an undergraduate degree. Preference goes to a student who shows a passion for visual arts, like painting, drawing, photography, etc. Student shows academic merit, character, and motivation.

The Charlotte W. Newcombe Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship supports Ph.D. candidates in the humanities and social sciences with a $31,000 stipend for their final year of dissertation writing. This prestigious fellowship encourages original research that engages with religion, ethics, and values. Candidates must have completed all coursework and preliminary exams, and be in the writing stage of their dissertation. The fellowship aims to alleviate living expenses and is open to students whose work significantly contributes to scholarly discussions in their fields.