Best Higher Education Grants in Mississippi

Mississippi higher education institutions, nonprofit organizations, and public agencies in eligible Appalachian counties can seek funding for critical infrastructure and workforce or business development projects. Mississippi colleges and universities with projects in areas like broadband, water and wastewater systems, transportation, entrepreneurship, or worker training can access funding through Appalachian Regional Commission’s Area Development Program.

Costco Foundation provides Mississippi higher education nonprofits and other 501(c)(3) organizations with monetary support for programs serving children, education, and health and human services. Eligible applicants must demonstrate community need, measurable outcomes, collaboration, and a broad base of financial support; applications are typically reviewed within 4–6 weeks.

Higher education and other 501(c)(3) organizations in Mississippi focused on STEM education and digital literacy can seek support for programs, projects, and events that build tech skills and workforce readiness. C Spire Wireless Foundation prioritizes STEM initiatives that enhance professional skills, technology education, and broadband access, with preference for organizations based in its regional service area.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

Mississippi 501(c)(3) nonprofits with audited expenses over $2 million that run proven social service programs can seek more than US $100,000 to expand direct services tackling chronic poverty and strengthening families. The William Randolph Hearst Foundation provides program, capital, and general support; higher education institutions with qualifying social service or youth development initiatives may be eligible.

Higher education institutions and other nonprofits in underserved Mississippi counties can seek funding to expand arts access and participation through the Mississippi Arts Commission’s Underserved Initiative. Colleges, universities, libraries, and community organizations in Amite, Clarke, Itawamba, Jefferson Davis, Tishomingo, and Winston counties may be eligible for support and on-site grant guidance.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

Nonprofit organizations and public institutions in Mississippi can receive up to US $2,500 for public humanities programs from Mississippi Humanities Council, including projects in literature, history, philosophy, and related social sciences. Colleges, universities, museums, libraries, and community or cultural organizations may be eligible for these flexible minigrants supporting higher education and community engagement activities.

Mississippi 501(c)(3) public charities and governmental agencies can seek funding for educational programs, especially those improving outcomes for children and youth. With a mission to strengthen education, Phil Hardin Foundation provides Mississippi higher education institutions and partners with support for early childhood, literacy, teacher quality, school leadership, equity, arts, and community capacity-building initiatives, including projects with regional or statewide impact.

Mississippi higher education institutions and nonprofits serving marginalized communities can access funding through Semnani Family Foundation to support health, education, and humanitarian programs. Organizations working on healthcare access, medical education, literacy, or related social services in Mississippi may be eligible, alongside projects in other U.S. states and internationally.

Mississippi 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking support for community-focused programs such as basic needs, workforce development, or neighborhood revitalization can apply for sponsorship funding that advances economic mobility and social progress. Bank of America Foundation also considers arts, culture, environment, sports, and diversity initiatives, which may benefit higher education institutions and related programs in the state.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

Higher education institutions and 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Mississippi communities near Georgia-Pacific facilities can seek funding for education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental programs. Focused on strengthening GP communities, the Georgia-Pacific Foundation supports projects that enhance long-term well-being and sustainability where the company operates.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

Higher education institutions, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and libraries in Mississippi can seek unrestricted support for environmental, human services, or related programs. Grants from Lawrence Foundation typically range from US $5,000 - US $10,000 and may benefit colleges or universities with qualifying community or environmental initiatives, including general operating or project needs.

IRS-qualified nonprofit organizations in Mississippi working in higher education and related community programs can seek US $1,000 - US $20,000 to support post-secondary education initiatives, training, and facilities. The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation also considers museums, cultural programs, youth and senior services, disability services, environmental efforts, and other community-based projects across the U.S.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

Higher education institutions and other 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Mississippi can receive US $1,500 - US $10,000 to run short-term volunteer and civic engagement projects. With a mission to expand community service, Volunteer Mississippi provides funding for activities like mentoring, literacy, community arts, environmental restoration, and projects addressing food insecurity, poverty, and homelessness, plus related facilities, supplies, advertising, and volunteer training costs.

Mississippi 501(c)(3) nonprofits and local government units can seek project support for arts-based community development, arts education, arts industry, and folk and traditional arts initiatives. Focused on expanding arts activities statewide, the Mississippi Arts Commission’s Project Grants may benefit higher education institutions and programs that meet these criteria and goals.

Mississippi 501(c)(3) arts organizations can use this grant for general operating expenses such as salaries, marketing, rent, insurance, and artistic fees. Focused on strengthening arts-based community development, arts industry, and folk and traditional arts, the Mississippi Arts Commission invites eligible institutions to support programs that enrich communities and expand access to the arts.

The Hansen Family Foundation Grant seeks to empower organizations that uphold the American values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Focused on diverse causes like children, education, animals, environmental conservation, humanitarian efforts, and arts, the foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that create positive change. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while political campaigns and organizations with high budgets or overheads are ineligible. This grant fosters impactful contributions to society.

Higher education and other 501(c)(3) or aligned for-profit organizations in Mississippi can seek funding to tell impactful stories about their work. The Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation’s Storytelling Grant supports communications projects for nonprofits advancing preservation, education, or wellness, which may include colleges and post-secondary programs that fit these pillars; awards are typically more than US $50,000.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

Mississippi higher education institutions and other rural public or nonprofit entities can use these USDA Rural Development grants to support small rural businesses through training, technical assistance, and community economic development projects. Funding may cover facilities, equipment, revolving loan funds, business incubators, and long-term strategic planning in eligible rural areas across the state.

Nonprofit organizations helping disadvantaged people become self-reliant can apply for Gupta Family Foundation grants, with awards from US $5,000 - US $250,000. U.S.-based 501(c)(3)s and qualifying foreign entities working in countries including the U.S. may be eligible, and Mississippi higher education programs that fit these criteria and revenue ranges may benefit.

Mississippi higher education institutions, public bodies, community-based nonprofits, and Federally Recognized Tribes in rural areas can use this program to build, purchase, or improve essential community facilities and equipment. USDA Rural Development offers grants, low-interest loans, or combinations for projects such as educational facilities, public safety buildings, and community support services in communities under 20,000 residents.