Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Minnesota

The TESOL Award for Excellence in Research honors outstanding empirical research in language teaching and learning, promoting advancements in English language education. Sponsored by Dr. Deborah Short, this award includes a $1,500 grant, an additional $1,500 for conference expenses, a featured session at the TESOL convention, keynote speaking opportunity at the Graduate Student Forum, a one-year subscription to TESOL Quarterly, and a featured article in TESOL Connections.

Gould Medical Group

Open to local college students from Stanislaus and San Joaquin Counties pursuing healthcare careers, particularly those entering medical school.

The scholarship amount is $10,000. Up to five (5) students will be awarded.

The TESOL Teacher of the Year Award, presented by National Geographic Learning, honors exceptional English language teachers who have demonstrated outstanding dedication in the classroom for at least three consecutive years. The winner receives $1,000, a one-year TESOL membership, and free registration for the TESOL International Convention, including travel accommodations. This recognition not only highlights the importance of teaching excellence but also fosters a community of learning and collaboration among educators around the world.

The Bernard B. Brodie Award in Drug Metabolism and Disposition honors significant contributions in drug metabolism, recognizing outstanding research that impacts future studies. Presented biennially, it includes a $2,000 honorarium, a medal, and an invitation to present at the Annual Meeting. Candidates from all sectors are eligible, and nominations may highlight lifetime achievements or promising mid-career scientists. The award aims to celebrate innovation in this critical field.

Warrior Assist Foundation

Founded in 2020, Warrior Assist Foundation is dedicated to supporting those who serve or have served in the U.S. armed forces and their families.

Grants

Warrior Assist Foundation offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations that dedicate at least 85% of their annual expenditures to provide assistance to active duty and reserve military personnel, their spouses and children, veterans, or spouses and children of veterans.

The TESOL Leadership Mentoring Program connects TESOL members with experienced leaders for mentorship and professional development. Participants receive free registration to the annual convention, up to $1,000 for lodging, and the opportunity to build lasting relationships within the TESOL community. This program is designed for members in good standing, with a preference for individuals from underrepresented groups, fostering inclusivity and active participation in the association's initiatives.

The Fund for Unitarian Universalism Grant, managed by the Unitarian Universalist Association, supports innovative projects that enhance UU community life across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. This grant prioritizes programs with broad denominational impact and encourages diverse funding sources. It aims to nurture Unitarian Universalist principles while fostering a spirit of generosity among applicants. However, it excludes funding for projects limited to individual organizations or ongoing UU activities.

The NAPB Borlaug Undergraduate Scholars program, established by the National Association of Plant Breeders, aims to cultivate future leaders in plant breeding. Open to undergraduates in relevant disciplines, the program provides mentorship opportunities and financial support for travel to the NAPB Annual Meeting. Those eligible must be current undergraduates and may not have received similar scholarships previously. This initiative fosters professional development and engagement in the field of plant improvement.

About ACSM

ACSM is the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world, with nearly 50,000 international, national and regional members and certified fitness professionals.

ACSM Fellowship

CSM Fellow members have demonstrated high standards of professional development and shown a commitment to the goals and long‑range activities of the college.

The purpose of fellowship is to recognize commendable service to ACSM; to encourage continued service to the College in a leadership role with ongoing dedication; also, to recognize distinguished achievement in sports medicine and related disciplines.

The NCAA Walter Byers Graduate Scholarship is awarded annually to one male and one female student-athlete, recognizing outstanding academic achievement and potential for success in graduate study. Each scholarship provides $24,000 for one academic year, with the possibility of renewal. Candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.500, compete in NCAA athletics, and demonstrate strong character and leadership. The scholarship aims to support future leaders in their chosen fields, fostering excellence in academics and community engagement.

The Bring Back the Trades Scholarship is dedicated to addressing the skilled trades shortage by providing $1,500 monthly scholarships to students enrolled in post-secondary skilled trades programs across the United States. Founded by a seasoned business owner, the initiative aims to raise awareness and reshape perceptions of trade careers, ensuring that students have the resources to succeed in vital roles that contribute to the nation's future.

The Flexible Support Grant: Tier 3, offered by the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, provides up to $15,000 for arts organizations with an annual operating budget of $200,000 or more. This funding aims to enhance access to the arts in a 9-county area of southcentral Minnesota, supporting operational needs, organizational capacity, and arts programming. Eligible projects may include staff support, facility improvements, or programming events, fostering a vibrant arts community.

The Flexible Support Grant: Tier 2, offered by the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, provides up to $10,000 to arts organizations within a 9-county area in southcentral Minnesota. This grant supports operational costs, enhances organizational capacity, and funds arts programming, ensuring equitable access to diverse art forms for the community. It specifically targets organizations with annual budgets between $75,000 and $199,999, promoting sustainable arts initiatives that enrich local culture.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Kids In Business Merit Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to individuals who are or have been associated with the Kids In Business program (Newark) who wish to further their education at an accredited educational institution.

Friedman Family Scholarship

The Friedman Family Scholarship was established in 1998. The award is available to graduating seniors in Taos and western Colfax counties for students pursuing advancement of higher education. The scholarship is available to those applying to 4 year colleges and universities as well as 2 year vocational/trade schools. The award is up to $ 8,000.00 paid out at $2,000 annually for up to four years if a 3.0 GPA is maintained.

The Diana Jo Dreyer Memorial Scholarship, established by INDATEL Services LLC and the family of Diana Jo Dreyer, supports female students pursuing a business degree. This scholarship honors Diana's impactful career in telecommunications and her dedication to empowering women in the industry. Applicants must be graduating high school seniors, U.S. citizens, sponsored by an NTCA member, and interested in returning to rural communities after graduation. This initiative enriches the lives of young women in rural America.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Keith Hightower Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a college-bound, graduating high school senior from Warren, Morris, Sussex, or Somerset counties. Applicants must have participated in a science or math competition or in independent scientific research during high school. 

The Independent Medical Education Program Grants provided by the Boston Scientific Foundation Inc aim to support educational, scientific, and policymaking programs that enhance medical knowledge. These grants are available to US-based healthcare institutions and organizations, promoting a wide range of educational initiatives. While they do not cover certain costs like faculty honoraria or travel for attendees, they encourage applications for various educational events. Please apply well in advance, as funding decisions are made monthly.

The Winters Area Foundation Alumni Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports Winters alumni currently enrolled in college. With awards ranging from $500 to over $5,000, this scholarship aims to ease the financial burden of higher education. Payments are made directly to educational institutions for the fall and spring semesters. This initiative highlights the Foundation's commitment to empowering students through financial assistance and fostering educational opportunities.

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

Barbara Hammerberg Memorial Scholarship Fund

Provides scholarships to students in Marquette and Delta Counties for post-secondary education. 

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

Gwinn Community Schools Alunni Scholarship

Be a graduating senior of Gwinn Area Community Schools pursuing higher education and are residents of the Gwinn Area School District and hold at least a 3.0 GPA.

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

Evergreen Award of Marquette County Scholarship Fund

Provides financial assistance to individuals residing in Marquette County who meet the following criteria: have not had the opportunity to continue their formal education, represent life-long learning interests, have an established history of service/commitment to others in the community, and demonstrate financial need for educational support. 

Distribution Process

• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

Matt Davidson Memorial Scholarship Fund

Provides scholarships to up to two eligible applicants, one male and one female in the amount of $500.00 each. 

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

The Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation's President's Grants support educational projects that enhance health professional training. The foundation prioritizes diversity, collaboration, and ethical navigation in clinical learning environments. Grants are awarded on a rolling basis, primarily aligning with these priorities, and are capped at $25,000, including a maximum of 10% for indirect costs. Applications are accepted year-round from tax-exempt institutions focusing on medical and nursing education.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

J. Oscar and Susan Florence Hunt Scholarship

This scholarship will be awarded to a college-bound, graduating senior from Gloucester or Salem counties. Preference is given to the residents of Swedesboro, Auburn, Pedricktown, and Penns Grove, in the order of priority stated. Scholarships will be awarded based on need and merit.

The Mobile County Education Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of South Alabama, provides scholarships to Mobile County School students with a minimum GPA of 3.5 and financial need. This initiative supports students pursuing professional certificates, undergraduate, and graduate degrees, ensuring that local talent can thrive. The scholarship rotates among Mobile County Public High Schools, empowering students to achieve their educational goals and contribute positively to the community.

The Private Higher Education Grant, offered by the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations, supports colleges and universities dedicated to undergraduate education and the liberal arts. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $300,000, encouraging projects that enhance student outcomes and faculty leadership. Proposals promoting advocacy for liberal arts, civil discourse, and purpose-oriented education are especially welcomed, fostering an environment of respectful dialogue and a strong sense of purpose among students.