Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Mississippi

The ENF Community Investments Program offers Spotlight Grants to Lodges, empowering them to tackle pressing community issues such as family literacy, veteran homelessness, and hunger. Each Lodge can apply for a $2,000 grant without needing to meet the GER's per-member-giving goal. Funds can be used for one of the designated project plans or combined with the Beacon Grant, enabling flexible support for local initiatives.

The Walt Disney Company UNCF Enhanced Scholars Program offers scholarships and internships to high-achieving college juniors interested in off-camera careers in the entertainment industry. With a scholarship of up to $5,000 and mentorship opportunities during the 2025-2026 academic year, this program aims to create a diverse pipeline of professionals. Selected students will gain invaluable experience through a summer internship with The Walt Disney Company, enhancing their career readiness in various business areas.

The SRVH Scholarship Fund, established by Sherrard Roe Voigt & Harbison in 1981, supports local students pursuing higher education. This initiative, commemorating the firm's 40th anniversary, aims to promote equity by offering critical financial assistance to those enrolled in technical schools, community colleges, or universities. With a focus on students interested in legal careers, the fund seeks to strengthen community ties and foster the next generation of professionals in the Nashville area.

The San Antonio Association of Hispanic Journalists Scholarship Fund, administered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in Journalism or Communications. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and college students from specific Texas counties or those attending schools in San Antonio. The scholarship aims to foster educational opportunities and promote diversity in media, helping students achieve their career goals in the communications field.

The ENF Community Investments Program offers Gratitude Grants between $3,000 and $5,000 to Elks Lodges that have met the GER’s per-member-giving goal. These grants empower Lodges to enhance community service and foster local engagement, supporting initiatives that promote health, education, and welfare. The program exemplifies the Elks' commitment to charity and community improvement, showcasing their dedication to building stronger neighborhoods and helping those in need.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Milton and Ruby McClendon Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

The Mitchell Patrick Mielnik Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors the legacy of Mitchell Mielnik, a passionate hockey player who exemplified integrity. This scholarship supports scholastic hockey players demonstrating excellence in athletics and academics. By fostering Mitchell's spirit of generosity, the foundation aims to empower young athletes to excel in their personal and professional lives, ensuring a positive impact on the community for years to come.

The NRF Foundation Rising Stars Scholarship aims to inspire high school students to explore diverse career paths in the retail industry. By encouraging early participation in the NRF Foundation Student Program, the scholarship allows nominated freshmen and sophomores to gain invaluable insights. Eligible students, nominated by university members, receive a $1,000 travel stipend for the program held in New York City from January 8-11, 2026, fostering their academic and professional growth.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mary Francis Book Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

The Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company Foundation provides financial support to non-profit organizations that promote American Indian self-sufficiency and culture. Grants are awarded quarterly, and applications must be submitted at least 30 days before meeting dates. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) compliant, focusing on entrepreneurship, education, and cultural preservation. The Foundation, established in 1997, has funded various projects, ensuring that grant funds are utilized effectively for their intended purposes.

The John W. Work III Memorial Foundation Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors the legacy of an inspiring educator and composer. This scholarship supports undergraduate juniors, seniors, or graduate students, particularly African American, pursuing a degree in music. Applicants must maintain a B average and demonstrate musical potential. The fund aims to foster excellence in music education and ensure future generations benefit from John W. Work's impactful contributions.

The Howard Mayer Brown Fellowship, administered by the American Musicological Society, supports graduate students from historically underrepresented groups at U.S. or Canadian universities. Established to enhance diversity in musicology, it offers a $25,000 stipend for one year of full-time study. Applicants are expected to have completed at least one year of graduate work and demonstrate academic excellence. The fellowship encourages institutions to provide additional financial support, fostering a vibrant academic community.

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Stella Knoebel / Saddlerock Evangelical Presbyterian Church Music Scholarship

Stella Knoebel was a significant part of the music department at First Presbyterian Church of Wenatchee (now called Saddlerock Evangelical Presbyterian Church). To honor her legacy, the church established an endowment fund to provide scholarships to students who are members of the congregation and preference will be given to those who plan to continue their education in the field of music.

About

Our Story: Women Deserve More

At Women Founders Grant we are catalyzing a no BS movement for women to truly attain Financial Agency.

Women Founders Grant

If you have a dream, we want to support it. We are here to level the playing field and give you the guidance you need to turn that dream into a reality.

Our Grants

• $5,000 Grants on a rolling basis.
• No strings attached.
• This is our biggest differentiator. We know first hand how the folks who have the funds make you jump through unnecessary hoops. No hoops here.
• An Entrepreneur Business Yoda to mentor and coach you.
• GTM support to help you grow and get paying customers.
• On demand resources that guide you through your entrepreneur journey.

• Simply answer two questions on the application page.
• At the heart of our grants, there's no limit to your business dream. From pioneering scientists to artisan bakers, we encourage diverse passions and pursuits.
• So what truly matters is you—the woman or women driving the business forward. We value authenticity over corporate jargon; past winners have simply shared their stories - real passion and vision can’t be faked - so let your’s shine.
• We seek not only business acumen but also the fiery passion that fuels your entrepreneurial journey.

The Dementia Care and Brain Degenerative Diseases Grant, offered by the Sephardic Home For The Aged Foundation, aims to support innovative projects enhancing care and quality of life for older adults affected by dementia. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)3 nonprofits in operation for at least two years. The Foundation prioritizes proposals focusing on dementia care, promoting collaboration and resource access for aging individuals. Interested applicants should submit a Letter of Inquiry through the online application system.

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Central Presbyterian Church - Raisner Family Scholarship Fund

The Central Presbyterian Church-Raisner Family Scholarship Fund assists deserving Stark County students who are active in the church or who are children or dependents of an active member of Central Presbyterian Church who are pursuing first-year post-secondary education. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate financial need.

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• No

Native Forward awards are allocated based on the financial aid information provided by the institution’s Financial Aid Office. Awards can vary, ranging from $100 to $30,000 per academic year.

Native Forward Scholars Fund members of federally and state-recognized Tribes as well as first and second-generation descendants. However, Native Forward Scholars Fund scholarship opportunities have different Tribal eligibility requirements and can be determined by submitting a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

Katrin Lamon Fellowship

This opportunity is provided to honor the life and legacy of Katrin Lamon.

The purpose of the Katrin Lamon Scholarship program is to provide financial assistance to eligible American Indian and Alaska Native graduate students pursuing degrees full-time at an accredited institution in literature, communication, journalism, or other related fields.

This opportunity is a need-based award.

This funding opportunity invites applications for investigator-initiated clinical trials that deliver complementary and integrative health interventions remotely or via mobile health technologies. Emphasizing no in-person contact, the trials should demonstrate feasibility, safety, and potential clinical benefits. A Plan for Enhancing Diverse Perspectives is required for submission, and applicants are encouraged to consult with NCCIH contacts before applying. Deadlines for submissions range from February 2025 to October 2026.

Native Forward awards are allocated based on the financial aid information provided by the institution’s Financial Aid Office. Awards can vary, ranging from $100 to $30,000 per academic year.

Native Forward Scholars Fund members of federally and state-recognized Tribes as well as first and second-generation descendants. However, Native Forward Scholars Fund scholarship opportunities have different Tribal eligibility requirements and can be determined by submitting a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

Ruth Muskrat Bronson Scholarship

This opportunity is provided to honor the life and legacy of Ruth Muskrat Bronson.

The purpose of the Ruth Muskrat Bronson Scholarship program is to provide financial assistance to eligible federally recognized Tribal members of Oklahoma pursuing graduate or professional degrees full-time in Nursing or a health-related field.

This opportunity is a need-based award.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Joseph and Marla Dernay Future Teacher Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors.Frank P. Husvar Memorial Scholarship FundFrank was a determined man. During a 21-year Army career, he saw action in WWII and Korea, and rose to the rank of 1st Sergeant. When he retired at a comparatively young age, he was far from ready for a life of leisure. He became a math and science teacher. When throat cancer forced Frank to have a laryngectomy, he refused to let the problem get him down. He learned esophageal speech and returned to his middle school students. Later, he went to the Mayo Clinic for training to become a certified speech teacher, resolving to help others with similar challenges.Frank was very interested in children and education,” Martha notes. “The scholarship fund is a way to carry on his name and to honor him.”

• Pursuing a degree in education in math or speech pathology.
• Student should be participating in extracurricular activities common to that field of study.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors.

The Sampson Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is for a Year 3 or Year 4 veterinary school student or resident committed to Zoological or Wildlife Medicine.

The Helen Duranleau-Brennan Theater Scholarship, offered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, supports students pursuing theater studies. Eligible applicants must be graduates from specific Davenport high schools, maintain a 3.0 GPA, and be enrolled in a four-year program or graduate school for theater. This scholarship provides up to $1,000 annually, renewable for up to four years, encouraging students committed to theater-related disciplines and community service.

The USA Swimming Foundation's HBCU Grant program is a $1 million initiative aimed at enhancing swimming opportunities in communities served by Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Launched in 2021, the program provides annual grants of $100,000 over ten years, supporting youth water safety lessons and university swim clubs. This initiative is designed to empower HBCUs to expand their aquatic programming, fostering inclusivity and safety in swimming across diverse communities nationwide.

The Don E. & Charlotte Williams Scholarship, administered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, offers financial support to students pursuing higher education, including community colleges and trade schools. Annually, it provides up to $3,500 for full-time students and $75 per semester hour for part-time students. This need-based scholarship is renewable for up to four years, contingent on maintaining a 2.0 GPA and fulfilling other criteria, prioritizing applicants who are descendants of former employees of the Don E. Williams Company.

Steve's Foundation Grant is a small private funding opportunity providing grants between $500 and $5,000, averaging $2,600. It supports organizations that empower disadvantaged individuals, focusing on cost-effective programs that yield significant impacts. The foundation prioritizes proposals from non-profits that directly assist those in need, especially children and marginalized communities. Applications are evaluated annually in May or June, but due to high demand, the foundation cannot respond to every inquiry.

The Rhoden Fellowship, supported by ESPN and administered by the United Negro College Fund, is a year-long program designed to empower students from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Participants will serve as correspondents, creating multimedia content for Andscape, covering major sports events, and producing a bi-weekly podcast. This opportunity not only fosters journalistic skills but also promotes engagement with the HBCU community, paving the way for future leaders in journalism.