Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Michigan

Amway Impact Grants support non-profit organizations in Kent County, Michigan, focusing on Health + Wellbeing and Empowerment. Grants are awarded to projects that improve access to healthy foods, provide nutritional resources, and foster mental wellbeing. Additionally, they promote workforce education, youth mentorship, and support for underserved populations. Applications are accepted annually from February 1 to October 1. Collaboration on projects is encouraged, and priority is given to proposals that demonstrate community need and clear outcomes.

The NCI Pathway to Independence Award (K99/R00) aims to support early-stage postdoctoral researchers transitioning to independent faculty positions. This initiative focuses on talented individuals with doctoral degrees in research or clinical fields, providing essential NCI funding during this key career juncture. Researchers engaged in cancer control, prevention, and data sciences are encouraged to apply for this opportunity, which emphasizes experimental studies with human participants, thus aligning with NIH's clinical trial definitions.

The Charles Koch Foundation invites innovative proposals for research that aligns with its vision of social progress and mutual benefit. Focused on supporting 501(c)(3) non-profit public charities and universities in the U.S., the Foundation emphasizes original projects of high standards. While it welcomes a broad range of ideas, it typically does not fund for-profit ventures, overhead costs, or certain areas like medical treatment and political activities.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Oriole Foundation / Michael Oakes Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Oriole Foundation. The Michael Oakes Memorial Scholarship award intends to honor late superintendent, Mike Oakes.

Mike Oakes's spirit of generosity, community service, and passion for education is commemorated by this Oriole Foundation award. With an emphasis on creating a positive community impact, this scholarship recognizes the value of individual and organizational service within the community.

The Improving Students' Understanding of Geometry Grant, provided by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, aims to enhance students' comprehension and application of geometry through innovative activities. Eligible applicants include educators teaching at the Pre-K-8 level, with proposals integrating technology and linking geometry to various fields such as art and science. The grant seeks to foster a deeper appreciation of geometry, ensuring that students achieve a greater understanding of its relevance in everyday contexts.

The Department of the Air Force is soliciting innovative research proposals for technologies that enhance multi-source data processing to improve Battlespace Awareness and automate decision-making processes. With a funding ceiling of approximately $99M and awards ranging from $3M to $35M, this opportunity is open to qualified offerors, including Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs). Note that foreign participation is not allowed in this BAA.

Larimer County Scholarship

The Larimer County Scholarship is designed to support post-secondary pursuits of students throughout the region and is funded through contributions from many community members and legacy gifts. 

The Larimer County scholarship is available to students who have participated in community or philanthropic activities designed to strengthen our community. Activities could include volunteering or fundraising to provide funding to local nonprofits or school-based initiatives.   

This scholarship is available to high school seniors living in Larimer County. The scholarship is open to students pursuing any kind of secondary education including four-year degrees, two-year degrees, trade schools, etc. 

Scholarship amount:

• $4,000

Number of awards:

• 3

Scholarship awards are one-time awards. The amount awarded to a selected recipient may be used for the cost of attendance. All scholarships will be paid directly to the recipient’s school and must be used for the upcoming academic year. Award disbursement is contingent upon the outside scholarship policies of a recipient’s college or university.

The Lyons & Snyder Legal Excellence Scholarship, offered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing legal studies. Applicants must demonstrate teaching or counseling experience and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. This scholarship is available to those enrolled or planning to enroll in accredited community colleges or universities across the USA. Since 1964, the foundation has played a vital role in enhancing community welfare through educational grants and scholarships.

The Technology Development Research for Establishing Feasibility and Proof of Concept (R21) grant supports innovative projects aimed at developing new technologies with high potential impact in biomedical research. Applicants are encouraged to submit Letters of Intent 30 days before application deadlines, which are set for February, June, and October from 2025 to 2027. This funding opportunity is administered by the NIH, focusing on high-risk, high-reward exploratory research.

Golden Garden Scholarship

The Golden Garden Scholarship supports Buckingham and Louisa highschool seniors who plan to attend a two‑year community college or a four‑year university as full‑time students. Established to support first‑generation college students—particularly students of color—with financial need, the award provides $2,500 per year, renewable for up to four years, and seeks candidates who demonstrate an interest in the Arts & Humanities, have a minimum 2.75 high‑school GPA, and a commitment to healthy lifestyle choices. Recipients must reside in Buckingham or Louisa County, remain enrolled full‑time throughout the scholarship term, and uphold good character and citizenship.

The Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) Institutional Research Training Grant (T32) supports eligible institutions in enhancing research training for predoctoral and postdoctoral candidates. This initiative aims to foster a diverse workforce in biomedical and clinical research, ensuring that training programs are comprehensive, engaging, and career-oriented. Key deadlines for applications are set from January 2025 through September 2027, with specific dates for standard and AIDS-related applications.

The Advanced Mathematics Education Course Work Scholarship, offered by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, aims to enhance the teaching skills of educators in grades 9-12. This grant provides financial support for advanced courses in mathematics education, emphasizing specific mathematics topics. Eligible applicants must have at least three years of teaching experience and dedicate a significant portion of their day to teaching mathematics. This initiative seeks to foster high-quality mathematics instruction across schools.

The Cottrell STAR Award recognizes exceptional research and educational achievements of Cottrell Scholars and Holland Award recipients. It aims to enhance science education at U.S. and Canadian universities, promoting the Cottrell Scholars' national profile. The award includes a $5,000 cash prize, with applications initiated through nominations. Highlighted at the summer Cottrell Scholar Conference, the award supports a vibrant community of early career faculty committed to innovative research and teaching in the physical sciences.

The Connecting Mathematics to Other Subject Areas Grant, offered by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, aims to enhance high school mathematics education through interdisciplinary lessons and materials. Grants support the creation of resources that facilitate mathematical modeling while connecting math to real-world contexts. Eligible applicants are educators teaching math in grades 9-12, and proposals should include a timeline for development and expected student impact.

The POET Community Impact Grant is a one-time funding opportunity aimed at supporting local nonprofits, schools, churches, and environmentally focused groups. It encourages innovative projects that enhance community welfare, education, and sustainability efforts. Open to organizations and individuals near POET's facilities, this grant reflects POET's commitment to fostering positive change and community development through collaboration and creativity.

The Cottrell IMPACT Award recognizes the significant contributions of Cottrell Scholars and Holland Award recipients in advancing science through leadership and service. It encourages excellence in academic leadership while raising the profile of awardees nationally. The award includes a $5,000 cash prize and highlights recipients at the Cottrell Scholar Conference and in professional journals, fostering a community of innovative researchers committed to impactful science.

The Classroom Research Grant 7-12, offered by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, aims to promote classroom-based research in mathematics education. This grant encourages collaboration between college or university mathematics educators and grades 7-12 teachers, focusing on enhancing curriculum, engaging diverse students, and integrating technology. Successful proposals should address research design, data analysis, and anticipated impacts on student learning, ultimately leading to a publishable article in relevant mathematics education journals.

The Mildred Rowlett Scholarship, offered by the Central Kentucky Community Foundation, supports Hart County graduating seniors in their pursuit of higher education. To qualify, applicants must rank in the top 15% of their class and aim for a degree in mathematics or a related field. This scholarship exemplifies the foundation's commitment to enhancing community life through educational opportunities.

The Professor Emeritus John Edward Lillich Endowed Scholarship Program, funded by the United Negro College Fund, aims to provide need-based scholarships to students majoring in engineering at HBCUs, with a preference for those attending North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NCAT). This scholarship honors John Edward Lillich, a WWII veteran and advocate for women in engineering, supporting students in their pursuit of education and leadership roles.

The Grades 7-12 Preservice Teacher Coursework Scholarship, provided by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, offers financial support for students preparing to teach secondary school mathematics. Eligible candidates must be college sophomores or graduate students with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship aids in funding coursework and graduation within two to three years, ensuring a robust pipeline of qualified mathematics educators.

The Science of Science: Discovery, Communication, and Impact (SoS:DCI) program fosters research that enhances the public value of scientific endeavors. It invites proposals that explore mechanisms of scientific discovery, improve understanding of communication outcomes, and assess societal benefits of science. Emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches, the program prioritizes proposals that broaden participation in science, engage diverse teams, and support America's leadership in global scientific innovation. The goal is to create impactful, evidence-based policies and advance the science of science.

In just one application, our Common Scholarship Application provides students access to more than 150 scholarship opportunities with awards ranging from $1,000 to more than $5,000.

In 2025, San Diego Foundation awarded a record-breaking $5.5 million in scholarships to nearly 1,400 students.

Wen Bo Wang Scholarship

Be graduating high school seniors and plan to enroll full-time at an accredited four-year university in the United States in fall.

The State Justice Institute's Curriculum Adaptation & Training Grant aims to empower courts and national associations to tailor educational programs to local needs. With funding up to $40,000 for 12 months, it encourages innovative training for judges and court personnel. Applicants must provide a 50% match, including at least 20% in cash. Selection criteria focus on project goals, the necessity of funding, and the effective integration of new curricula into existing court systems, ensuring impactful judicial education.

The Robert C. Seamans, Jr. Fellowship in Science, Technology, and Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School supports students excelling in research and management at the intersection of technology and public policy. This fellowship fosters future leadership in these critical areas, ensuring a commitment to addressing pressing public challenges. Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged, as the program is designed to promote inclusivity and recognizes the importance of varied perspectives in policy-making.

The Hale Kauai Scholarship in Memory of William Moragne, established in 2015, supports Kauai residents pursuing degrees in agriculture or engineering. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be full-time students at accredited colleges in Hawaii or the mainland USA. Preference is given to past recipients who continue to meet the criteria. This scholarship fosters educational advancement within the community, ensuring a brighter future for Kauai's youth.

The Powering Affordable Reliable Technology (PART) Energy Program, managed by the Rural Utilities Service, seeks Letters of Interest for loan applications to fund renewable energy generation and energy storage projects. With approximately $410 million available from the Inflation Reduction Act, the program offers up to 75% financing for project costs, along with potential loan forgiveness options. This initiative aims to enhance energy infrastructure in rural areas, promoting sustainable energy solutions.

The Teacher Professional Development Grant (Pre-K-5) aims to enhance mathematics teaching skills for classroom teachers in grades Pre-K-5. Sponsored by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, this grant supports professional development initiatives that foster effective teaching practices. Eligible applicants include experienced classroom teachers and organizations that support mathematics education. Project activities should occur between June 1 and May 31, with a focus on improving student learning outcomes in mathematics.