Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Missouri

Women's Education Coalition Grant

This multiyear grant helps women who are unemployed or struggling to support themselves and their families. This scholarship supports tuition, college expenses, and helps build a better future for you and your family. 

This education grant was established by a coalition of four member organizations: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, YWCA Kalamazoo and the former Kalamazoo Network.

KZCF scholarships may be applied to any items under your school’s cost of attendance (COA). Each school has a different COA that may include items such as tuition, fees, housing, transportation, food, health insurance, etc. Scholarship payments are sent directly to your institution.

This is a multiyear scholarship, meaning that it is eligible to repeat annually up to the degree/program completion.

The NIOSH Centers of Excellence for Total Worker Health® (U19) aims to enhance worker well-being by funding research and translation activities that address harmful exposures and improve working conditions. Priority areas include high-risk occupations, young workers, and chronic diseases. The initiative emphasizes strong project coordination, scientific rigor, and economic evaluations. Projects must utilize the NIOSH Worker Well-Being Questionnaire and share findings with the HERO Clearinghouse, fostering innovative solutions for employers and workers.

The USA Football Grant Program offers funding for youth organizations, middle schools, and girls flag football programs to improve operational standards and enhance athlete experiences. Spring Grants are available to help teams acquire necessary equipment and reduce barriers to play, while Fall Grants assist in future planning and increasing participation. Applications for Spring Grants are accepted until March 17, 2025, supporting the mission of #FootballForAll.

The PVA Education Foundation Grant Program, offered by the Paralyzed Veterans of America, supports innovative projects aimed at improving the lives of individuals with spinal cord injury and disease (SCI/D). Grants of up to $75,000 are available for initiatives in consumer education, professional development for healthcare providers, and research translation. This funding enables the development of essential educational tools and resources to enhance health, independence, and quality of life for the SCI/D community.

The Mockingbird Foundation offers competitive grants for music education for children. Focused on underserved communities, the foundation supports innovative projects that engage children directly through music. Grants are only available for nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, including public schools, in the U.S. The aim is to enhance creative expression and provide music education in unconventional settings. Applications must demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusion in their programs.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts seeks to enrich the quality of life of the people of our region by:

• Encouraging philanthropy
• Developing a perpetual, flexible endowment
• Assessing and responding to emerging and changing needs
• Serving as a resource, catalyst, and coordinator for charitable activities
• Promoting efficiency in the management of charitable funds

The Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds.

• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. 
• Most scholarships are for students who live in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties. However, some are also available to students who live in Berkshire County and Hartford County in Connecticut.
• We offer scholarships to those who attend on either a full-time or part-time basis. 
• Any student who plans to enroll for the upcoming fall semester, in any year of college as an undergraduate or graduate student and who will attend an accredited post-secondary school in the United States may apply.
• Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

Rintoul Family Fund

To support students from Hampden or Hampshire County attending a two- or four-year college, studying agriculture or other related majors.

The ILA Exemplary Reading Program Award, presented by the International Literacy Association, recognizes exceptional reading and language arts programs across all grade levels in Canada and the United States. This award aims to highlight outstanding educational efforts that promote literacy improvement and excellence among school staff. Eligible programs must submit comprehensive applications showcasing their entire reading initiatives, serving as models for others. Winning schools gain recognition while contributing to the advancement of literacy education.

Claud Hyatt Scholarship

The Claud N. Hyatt Scholarship was established in 2023 as a permanent fund of Taos Community Foundation. Mr. Hyatt started his teaching career in 1964, and dedicated his entire career to teaching history at Clayton High School. His desire to give back to the Clayton community has made this scholarship possible. The award is available to graduating seniors of Clayton High School who are pursuing advancement of higher education beyond high school. The scholarship is available to those applying to 2 or 4 year colleges and universities as well as vocational / trade schools. Award amounts will be determined at the time of committee review and will be within the range of $2,000 and $8,000. The awards will be paid out in annual installments for up to four years for those students attending a 4 year institution, 2 years for those students attending a 2 year institution, or per unit for certificate programs. Students must maintain a 2.5 GPA and be enrolled as a full time student to continue eligibility for the scholarship.

The Catalyst Award for Innovative Research Approaches for Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) provides $300,000 in funding to U.S. researchers exploring novel treatments and understanding of AMD. This initiative, co-funded by partners such as the American Macular Degeneration Foundation, encourages high-risk, high-gain research that could lead to significant advancements in AMD therapies. Each award is designed to support innovative projects that are not yet in clinical trials, fostering groundbreaking work in vision science.

The Jason Pettigrew Memorial ARE Scholarship, administered by the Architects Foundation, supports emerging architecture professionals by covering costs for the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). Open to current Associate AIA members, the scholarship honors Jason Pettigrew's legacy and encourages applicants who demonstrate significant contributions to the profession. Recipients gain financial assistance for exam fees and study materials, aiding their journey toward architectural licensure and fostering a new generation of architects committed to community impact.

The USTA's Tennis Venue Services provides funding for tennis facilities, emphasizing community and growth. Grants are available for various projects, including basic improvements, resurfacing, and new constructions. With funding up to $55,000 based on project type, the program supports collegiate organizations in enhancing their facilities. This initiative promotes healthy competition and camaraderie among players, ensuring tennis remains accessible and well-equipped for all enthusiasts.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship is an esteemed, achievement-based scholarship aimed at high school seniors committed to leadership and community service. Annually, 150 scholars receive $20,000 to support their college education. Since its inception, the program has awarded over $87 million in educational funding to more than 7,000 students. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, planning to attend an accredited college, and demonstrate strong community leadership and service.

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

Brian Watson Scholarship

Awarded to a graduating senior of Gwinn Area Community Schools pursuing higher education, who is pursuing a degree in one of the STEM fields and demonstrates a financial need.

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)

This funding opportunity aims to enhance the global response to rabies through innovative, cost-effective tools. The initiative focuses on reducing human rabies cases and advancing canine rabies elimination, particularly in high-burden regions. Research areas include tracking vaccination efforts, managing rabies exposure investigations, improving laboratory systems, and assessing the economic impact of interventions. Ultimately, it seeks to develop strategies that protect public health and ensure the sustainability of rabies-free status in the U.S.

The Sisters' Circle Fund, established in 2016, aims to enhance charitable giving within African American communities in Greater Kansas City. This fund awards grants to nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving quality of life and providing essential services in the region. Eligible nonprofits must have 501(c)(3) status and focus on serving African-Americans in specific counties in Missouri and Kansas. This initiative fosters impactful community development and strengthens local support networks.

The Homelessness Trust Fund Grant, established in 1988 by the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, aims to support homeless individuals and those at risk of homelessness in Kansas City and Jackson County, Missouri. Organizations can request up to $10,000, with a focus on impactful services. Eligibility requires 501(c)(3) status and a commitment to regular assistance for the homeless population. Preference is given to smaller organizations and those expanding essential services.

York County Community Foundation

York County Community Foundation was founded in 1961 by generous visionaries who saw an opportunity to perpetually support their community by pooling charitable giving, investing it to grow over time and make grants to charity from the earnings on the pooled fund. It wasn’t until 1991 that the Community Foundation made a real push to build its assets so that it could become the kind of leading organization it is today. Donors are the crux of our existence; they are the reason we have been so successful over the years. Today, thanks to encouragement from many community leaders, we have enhanced our mission to include being a community leader and changemaker by working with community stakeholders to leverage our grantmaking and expertise for powerful community improvement.

Field of Study Scholarships

Through the Community Foundation, our donors have established scholarship funds focused on a specific field of study. Each scholarship expresses our donors' deep commitment to helping York County students achieve their educational goals.

Tom Adams, Jo Hunger, George Lamotte Scholarship Fund

This scholarship was created for York County students studying to become a dentist, a dental specialist, or a dental hygienist.

The Marshall O. Bell Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, offers financial assistance to current high school seniors in Bexar County. This scholarship supports students pursuing any area of study, requiring full-time enrollment in an accredited institution. Renewable for up to three years, it aims to alleviate the financial barriers to higher education, assisting students in achieving their academic goals and enhancing their community.

Scholarships for High School Seniors

Mid-Shore Community Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties, who are planning to attend a college, university, or trade school. In general, scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, financial need, and other criteria specified by the donor.

Omer and Marie Dulin Scholarship

Awarded to Mid-Shore students, who are planning to pursue programs in Agriculture.

Gamma Mu Foundation

The Gamma Mu Foundation provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that serve clients and communities, particularly in rural and underserved areas across the United States. The Foundation awards grants for initiatives focused on community support services, public education and research, and HIV and health programs benefiting the LGBTQ+ community.

Additionally, the Foundation offers academic scholarships to LGBTQ+ individuals facing financial hardship and the impacts of discrimination. These scholarships are designed for those who actively support their local LGBTQ+ communities and demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing their education or vocational training. The Gamma Mu Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Scholarships

The Gamma Mu Foundation is committed to supporting the academic aspirations of gay men and LGBTQ+ students through our annual scholarship program. Scholarships provide financial assistance for a wide range of educational paths, including vocational training, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and graduate or professional programs.

Scholarships are awarded exclusively for full-time study at accredited institutions or programs chosen by the student.

Students attending community colleges or accredited vocational programs are encouraged to apply.

Applicants must select one scholarship category that reflects both their academic status for the upcoming fall term and identity. Categories include:

• Gay Male First-Year Student – For students entering college or technical school directly from high school.
• Gay Male Undergraduate Student – For current, returning, or adult undergraduate students enrolled in a college or technical school.
• Gay Male Graduate Student – For students pursuing graduate or professional degrees.
• LGBTQ+ Undergraduate Student – Open to undergraduate students of all LGBTQ+ identities.
• LGBTQ+ Graduate Student – Open to graduate and professional students of all LGBTQ+ identities.

Submitting multiple applications or applying in a category that does not align with your academic status or identity may lead to disqualification. 

Use of Scholarship

Scholarships may be used to cover tuition, books, fees, and other college-related expenses at accredited colleges, universities, vocational, or professional schools. All scholarship funds are disbursed directly to the institution and must be applied to the fall or spring term following the award. The scholarship is a one-time grant, and continued financial support beyond the initial award is not implied. Please see FAQ section.

Award Duration

• Scholarships are awarded for one year only.
• Recipients must reapply each year for funding consideration.
• The Foundation does not offer multi-year scholarships.

Applications are assessed based on the following criteria:

• Financial need
• Experience overcoming discrimination or marginalization
• Leadership in promoting diversity and inclusion
• Demonstrated LGBTQ+ community involvement
• Educational and career goals
• Extracurricular activities
• Academic and professional achievements

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts seeks to enrich the quality of life of the people of our region by:

• Encouraging philanthropy
• Developing a perpetual, flexible endowment
• Assessing and responding to emerging and changing needs
• Serving as a resource, catalyst, and coordinator for charitable activities
• Promoting efficiency in the management of charitable funds

The Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds.

• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. 
• Most scholarships are for students who live in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties. However, some are also available to students who live in Berkshire County and Hartford County in Connecticut.
• We offer scholarships to those who attend on either a full-time or part-time basis. 
• Any student who plans to enroll for the upcoming fall semester, in any year of college as an undergraduate or graduate student and who will attend an accredited post-secondary school in the United States may apply.
• Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

WestFest Scholarship Fund

To support Hampden County residents pursuing degrees in the arts; preference to residents of Westfield.

The Adult Learn-to-Swim Grant, a collaboration between the USA Swimming Foundation and U.S. Masters Swimming, aims to enhance adult swimming safety and reduce drowning risks. By consolidating fundraising efforts, the initiative provides vital resources and support for swim instructors and programs serving adults aged 18 and over. This grant empowers communities through education and outreach, ensuring that more adults have access to essential swim lessons and water safety training.

The Step Into Swim initiative aims to increase swimming participation among underserved communities by providing learn-to-swim programs. With over 300,000 swim lessons delivered, the program partners with various organizations to ensure children learn vital water safety skills. Funding is strictly for swim lessons, with a focus on developing safe swimmers who understand essential safety rules. Grants will prioritize facilities with certified pool operators, ensuring quality instruction and community engagement in aquatic activities.

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 Clark H. and Louise A. Criss Charitable Fund

The Clark H. and Louise A. Criss Charitable Fund was established to assist Stark County, OH high school graduates attending a two or four year university, college, or technical school. 

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

The Actors' Equity Foundation, established in 1962, is dedicated to supporting the professional theatre community through grants. Annually, it funds over 150 nonprofit theatres and arts organizations, promoting initiatives that enhance the performing arts landscape. The Theatre Grants are specifically aimed at organizations with 501(c)(3) status, ensuring a commitment to artistic excellence and fiscal responsibility. By investing in diverse programs, the Foundation plays a pivotal role in nurturing both emerging and established talent within the theatre industry.

The PLTW Gateway program, in partnership with Arrow Electronics, aims to enhance STEM education in public and charter schools across the U.S. Funded by Lockheed Martin, this initiative provides $10,000 for schools to expand their existing PLTW Gateway programs. Eligible activities include adding new units and training teachers. Since its inception, over 300 programs have been established, reaching over 77,000 students and addressing the growing need for skilled engineers and computer scientists.

The PLTW Gateway program, supported by Lockheed Martin, offers grants for schools to implement STEM and CTE-aligned curricula. Aimed at enhancing educational access for students, it provides funding of $10,000 for the 2026-2027 academic year. Eligible schools include public and charter institutions across the U.S. This initiative, part of a long-standing partnership since 2007, addresses the critical need for future engineers and scientists, benefiting over 77,000 students through innovative coursework.