Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Mississippi

The Volunteer and Civic Engagement Mini-Grants program, managed by Volunteer Mississippi, aims to support diverse projects promoting community service. Eligible organizations, including nonprofits and public entities, can apply for funding between $1,500 and $10,000. Projects may involve mentoring, social justice advocacy, environmental restoration, and literacy initiatives. Applications are accepted until August 7, 2025, or until funds are depleted, making it crucial for interested parties to act promptly.

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

About Electronic Health Records (EHR) ProgramThis program aims to:

• Provide financial assistance to rural health and mental health providers seeking to adopt electronic health record (EHR) systems or replace outdated or non-interoperable electronic health record systems.
• Promote the implementation of interoperable, certified systems.
• Enable seamless exchange of clinical information, improve care delivery, support quality reporting, and strengthen participation in value-based care.

The goal of the State’s Rural Health Transformation Plan is to support healthcare in rural communities by expanding access and improving outcomes in rural settings. The EHR Program is intended to assist independent rural healthcare facilities and providers in adopting and/or upgrading EHR systems to modernize clinical workflows; advance patient care options (telehealth or remote patient monitoring operability); meet standard levels required for participation in valuebase care models; and expand health information exchange (HIE) connectivity and utilization. 

The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi

The Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi manages 314 donor-established funds and has disbursed over $48 million to support more than 1,000 charitable organizations and activities recommended by its donors, as well as charitable programs established by the foundation. Established in 2002 with a generous grant from the Maddox Foundation, the Community Foundation is an independent 501(c)3 charitable organization. The Foundation serves Bolivar, Coahoma, DeSoto, Leflore, Marshall, Panola, Quitman, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tunica and Yalobusha counties. 

DeSoto County Business Women

The Desoto County Business Women offer a scholarship each year to a female, non-traditional student at the University of Mississippi Desoto Center. The criteria are as follows:

• Desoto County resident
• Business major
• Female senior
• Non-traditional student

The recipient shall be required to attend one DCBW meeting at our expense.

About the Community Foundation for Mississippi

We Are Better Together. We Are Mississippi.

Mississippi is one of the most charitable states in the nation. Our state is full of generous people who want their communities to be great places to live. Helping communities harness their philanthropic potential is what we do. We work alongside community leaders, philanthropists, and community partners to make meaningful and lasting change in our state. Because, truly, we are better together.

Friends of Andrew Bucci Fund: Art Supply Grant

The Friends of Andrew Bucci Fund’s 2026 Art Supply Grant cycle is now open. Mississippi art teachers may apply for grants of up to $500 to purchase supplies that support visual arts instruction for students in pre-K through 12th grade.

The fund was created to honor the memory of Andrew Bucci, one of Mississippi’s most celebrated visual artists. Grants help teachers provide hands-on opportunities for students to create and explore art using supplies such as paper, paint, paintbrushes, pencils, markers and clay.

The FDC Foundation, established in 2008, is a private non-profit dedicated to providing grants to 501(c)(3) public charities across three main areas: Health & Nutrition, Education, and Housing. The foundation supports initiatives that improve nutrition, assist diabetic individuals, enhance early childhood development, and promote housing opportunities for those in need. However, it does not fund for-profit entities or international organizations, nor does it provide grants for specific excluded purposes.

Tides Foundation

Tides is a partner for justice in the social sector, working closely with doers and donors to build the power of historically excluded groups who face systemic barriers. We provide fiscal sponsorship, donor advised funds, impact investing, and a variety of grantmaking solutions to advance social justice and equity. 

Through Tides Foundation, we partner with individuals and families, foundations, corporations, and social change leaders to design and deliver social impact initiatives that shift decision-making power back to the communities we serve. Our mission is our North Star — and a beacon for those who share our commitment to social justice. Together, we work to shift resources and power to communities historically denied both, so they can create a just and equitable future.

Voter Mobilization & Civic Innovation Fund

This fund is designed for organizations that are deeply rooted in community, testing bold or emerging strategies, and able to adapt quickly to changing on-the-ground conditions. The Southern Voter Mobilization & Innovation Fund is a 12-36 month, election-cycle investment designed to support organizations that are: 

• Closest to communities facing the most barriers to political participation
• Testing bold, creative, or unproven civic engagement strategies
• Shifting power to local groups participating in civic engagement
• Responding rapidly to on-the-ground conditions during the 2026 midterms 

Tier 2: Context-Dependent Areas

While we have identified priority counties based on data and historic investment patterns (Tier 1), we remain open to proposals serving other counties within the five Southern states.  

For work proposed outside of previously identified priority areas, we invite applicants to share:  

• Why this geography is urgent or strategically important at this moment 
• What gaps or opportunities exist that may not be reflected in traditional metrics 
• How this work complements- not duplicates of existing investments 

Lawrence and Lucimarian Roberts Scholarship Fund

The Lawrence and Lucimarian Roberts Helpline Scholarship Fund was established in July 2002 to help individuals further their education in human service professions such as psychology, counseling, social work, or other majors in the behavioral health and science field. The applicant must be currently enrolled in a two- or four-year college or university in the state of Mississippi or a high school senior who is planning on attending a two- or four-year college or university in the state of Mississippi. The applicant should have an overall grade point average of at least 2.5 (based on a 4.0 scale) from a state or private college or university or from a public or private high school. The individual must have family residency in Harrison, Hancock, Pearl River or Stone counties.

The Anchor QEA Scholarship supports graduate students pursuing degrees in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, with awards between $1,000 and $10,000. This program emphasizes helping those in financial need, particularly focusing on BIPOC students to address inequities in STEM. Eligible candidates must demonstrate a commitment to community service and possess an inclusive mindset. This initiative reflects Anchor QEA's dedication to fostering a diverse and equitable educational environment.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

The Von Voigtlander Family Foundation Grant, though currently closed, aims to support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, primarily in Michigan. The foundation emphasizes animal welfare, parks preservation, veteran support, and youth empowerment. Their mission is to enhance lives through community-focused initiatives that foster resilience, education, and well-being. They prioritize charities that promote responsible pet ownership, outdoor recreation, and provide resources for veterans and youth, ensuring a positive impact across multiple sectors.

The Jay L. Smith Family Foundation provides grants to tax-exempt non-profit organizations in the United States, primarily focusing on healthcare, family values, and supporting the disadvantaged. With a strong commitment to Alzheimer's research, the foundation has funded various initiatives including elderly care, domestic violence prevention, and cancer research. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities through meaningful contributions, aiming to address critical social issues and promote well-being.

CSX Charitable Investments provide essential in-kind donations to nonprofit organizations focused on supporting military members and community first responders. Through intermodal transportation services, CSX offers equipment and rail services to help reduce transportation costs for eligible organizations. The program also includes occasional donations of railroad materials and equipment based on availability. CSX prioritizes support for organizations operating within its service areas, promoting community betterment and development.

The Alleghany Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) organization in Virginia, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the Alleghany Highlands through strategic funding initiatives. It seeks grant applications that address key areas such as economic transformation, educational excellence, health and wellness, community capacity, and civic leadership. By prioritizing innovative projects and supporting local organizations, the Foundation aims to foster sustainable growth and community engagement, ensuring a vibrant future for the region.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers a variety of scholarships for students in the Dietetic Technician Program, with over 250 scholarships available. Ranging from $500 to $25,000, these scholarships help support aspiring dietetic professionals. Applicants need to complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships based on eligibility. Membership in the Academy is encouraged but not mandatory for applying.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for dietetic interns, allowing a single application to apply for multiple awards. Scholarships range from $500 to $25,000, with eligibility for interns enrolled through June 30, 2024, including those with off-cycle matches. Applicants should consider their career goals in areas like clinical dietetics, culinary arts, and nutrition education. Academy membership is encouraged but not required. Fundraising determines the number of scholarships available each year.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for graduate and doctoral students pursuing degrees in nutrition and dietetics. With scholarship amounts ranging from $500 to $25,000, applicants can utilize a single application to be considered for multiple opportunities. Eligibility includes enrollment in accredited programs and other criteria such as experience in education or dietetics. Membership in the Academy is encouraged, although not required, for most scholarships.

The Appalachian Region Healthcare Support Program aims to enhance healthcare delivery in rural areas by providing technical assistance to organizations such as critical access hospitals and rural health clinics. By focusing on planning and implementing healthcare service improvements, the program seeks to strengthen the operational performance and quality of care within these communities, ultimately benefiting the residents served by the Appalachian Regional Commission.

The JWDDBF Service Learning Program, administered by the Joe W & Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation, supports K-12 schools in Louisiana and Mississippi. This initiative encourages students to engage with their communities through service learning projects that connect academic curriculum with real-world problems. By providing funding, the program enhances students' critical thinking, collaboration, and empathy while fostering positive relationships between schools and communities. The Principal’s Award also incentivizes schools to participate in these enriching experiences.

The JWDDBF: SupportSTEM Grant Program aims to enhance STEM education in K-12 schools in Louisiana and Mississippi by funding innovative curriculum implementation and instructional support. Eligible applicants include K-12 schools, universities, and non-profits with three years of operation. Grants can be requested for amounts up to $20,000, covering essentials like professional development, STEM kits, and ongoing programs. However, funds will not support capital projects or one-time events.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for undergraduate students pursuing dietetics. Applicants complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships ranging from $500 to $25,000. Eligibility includes enrollment in an ACEND-accredited program and various special criteria. This initiative supports students from diverse backgrounds, encouraging future professionals in nutrition and dietetics. Membership in the Academy is recommended but not mandatory for application.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants Scholarship Fund

The Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants created this scholarship fund to award to a qualified individual majoring in an agricultural field.

The Garden Club of America Award in Coastal Wetlands Studies supports graduate students engaged in coastal wetlands research. Established through the Rockefeller Environmental Education Fund, this scholarship promotes conservation by funding field work in tidal and nontidal wetlands across coastal states, including the Great Lakes. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. graduate program and can propose their own wetlands study. The award aims to foster environmental education and scientific inquiry in this vital ecosystem.

CSX Charitable Investments offers the Pride in Service Grants to support organizations that honor and assist military members and first responders. Focus areas include safety, mental health, community bridging, workforce development, and addressing food insecurity. Eligible organizations include those with 501(c)(3) status, government entities, and educational institutions. Grants aim to uplift communities and recognize the contributions of those who serve, while ensuring alignment with specific charitable criteria.

The Asian Cultural Council's Graduate Fellowship provides financial support for travel and living expenses to graduate students from Asia studying in the U.S. It offers $15,000 for one academic year, potentially renewable for another year, covering essential costs while pursuing full-time coursework. This initiative fosters international cultural exchange and enhances academic training in the arts. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in accredited graduate programs and commit to at least two consecutive semesters of study.

About The American Chestnut Foundation:

Our mission is to return the iconic American chestnut to its native range.

Our vision is a robust eastern forest returned to its splendor.

Small Grants Program

Are you looking for funding to support your American chestnut research? External small grants offer recipients a variety of benefits such as professional development and an expanded network. Grant activities contribute to the continuous renewal and development of faculty and staff, to the education and motivation of students, and achievement of our mutual interest — restoration of the American chestnut. This is a small grants program. TACF does not ordinarily fund projects in excess of $10,000.