Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Missouri

The Clinical & Translational Science Award TL1 Postdoc Fellowship Training Grant offers comprehensive support for biomedical researchers at Vanderbilt University. This program empowers scholars through career development tools, mentoring opportunities, and participation in national Translational Science meetings. Trainees must hold a doctoral degree and be committed to translational research while pursuing full-time training. This fellowship fosters innovation and collaboration among researchers, enhancing their contributions to the field.

Since 1977, MAHF has provided grants to help fund almost 50 research and educational projects through individuals and institutions to improve the health and welfare of all animals. These grants have improved veterinary care, animal housing and medical techniques for all species for animals.

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation and KidsGardening offer the GroMoreGood Grassroots Grant to enhance community gardens across the U.S. This initiative supports programs that engage under-resourced communities, focusing on youth participation. In 2026, 120 grants of $750 will be awarded, with additional funding opportunities available through specialty awards for programs addressing specific needs, including those serving LGBTQ+ youth and communities of color.

The ASCFG Research Foundation Grant, offered by the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers, aims to support innovative research projects that benefit specialty cut flower growers. The program, open to academia, government, and industry researchers, will distribute up to $30,000 in grants in 2026. Proposed research should last one year or less and can include multi-year projects. Recipients are expected to present their findings at ASCFG meetings, fostering collaboration and advancement in the cut flower industry.

The James H. Shea Award, presented annually by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT), recognizes outstanding contributions in writing and editing Earth science materials aimed at the public and educators. Established in 1991, this prestigious award honors the legacy of James H. Shea, a dedicated advocate for quality geoscience education. Nominations require a detailed letter outlining the nominee's exceptional contributions, reinforcing NAGT's commitment to fostering excellence in Earth science education.

Nebraska Library Commission Grants Schedule

Nebraska Library Commission Grants: The Nebraska Library Commission awards grants to Nebraska libraries and library organizations according to the following schedule. These grants are financed with funding made available through the Nebraska Unicameral Legislature or through the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act.

Continuing Education and Training Grants

This year, the Nebraska Library Commission is opening the CE grants to 1) online learning, 2) attending out-of-state conferences or workshops, and 3) larger continuing education projects.

The purpose of these continuing education grants is to assist Nebraska libraries in improving the library services provided to their communities through continuing education and training for their library personnel and supporters. Successful applications will show how the continuing education and/or training proposed will support the library's mission.

For this round of CE and training grants, applications should be for events happening before June 2026. (All reimbursement forms and receipts must be submitted by June 12, 2026.).

The Excellence in JEDI Award, presented by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT), honors individuals who promote justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) in geoscience education. This prestigious award recognizes significant contributions, including mentorship and advocacy for marginalized groups. Awardees receive a one-year NAGT membership and an opportunity to present their work at a DEI event. Nominations are accepted online, and selections are made by the NAGT DEI Committee.

The Bigglesworth Family Foundation's Access Grants aim to strengthen nonprofit organizations in delivering essential legal services to underserved communities. Ranging from $1,000 to $3,500, these grants provide access to critical tools and resources. The application process is streamlined, ensuring a review within 30 days, with a limit of two applications per organization annually. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on legal services, as applications outside this area will not be considered.

Helen Frankenthaler Foundation Inc

The Helen Frankenthaler Foundation supports the artist’s legacy through a variety of initiatives, including exhibitions, loans of artworks, research and publications, conservation, grants, educational programs for the public and the scholarly community, and the publishing of a catalogue raisonné. It is dedicated to promoting greater public interest in and understanding of the visual arts.

Established and endowed by the artist during her lifetime (1928-2011), the Foundation became active in 2013, on the closing of Frankenthaler’s estate. As the principal beneficiary of Frankenthaler’s estate, the Foundation maintains an extensive collection of her work in a variety of mediums, as well as her collection of works by other artists and original papers and materials pertaining to her life and work.

Visual Arts & Education Grant

The Helen Frankenthaler Foundation supports public engagement with the visual arts through philanthropic, educational, curatorial, and research initiatives. It has expanded its grantmaking to sustain museums and visual arts institutions, supporting exhibitions, scholarship, and education across the field. The Foundation’s grantmaking priorities are currently organized across three areas:

• Climate Action and Sustainability
• Cultural Resilience
• Visual Arts & Education
  • Project-based support for exhibitions, publications, public programs, and academic initiatives that advance the presentation, study, and interpretation of the visual arts.
  • The Foundation supports discrete, institutionally grounded projects that advance the presentation, study, and understanding of the visual arts. Competitive proposals typically include:
    • Exhibitions, publications, and public programs focused on modern and contemporary art
    • Projects that expand access to collections, archives, and curatorial research
    • Academic and institutional initiatives in art history, studio practice, visual studies, museum and curatorial studies, conservation, and related areas of scholarship and teaching—particularly those involving university museums, galleries, and special collections
    • Conferences, programs, or initiatives led by professional organizations whose missions address the visual arts
    • Exhibitions and scholarly or public programs related to the 2028 centennial of Helen Frankenthaler
    • Projects must be clearly defined in scope, duration, and outcomes, and supported by appropriate institutional capacity. Requests for Visual Arts & Education funds should not be framed as general operating support. 

The Outstanding Teaching Assistant Awards, presented by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT), honor exemplary teaching assistants in geoscience education. With up to 30 awards given annually, both undergraduate and graduate TAs are eligible. Winners receive a one-year NAGT membership, including a subscription to the Journal of Geoscience Education. This award aims to recognize the contributions of TAs in enhancing Earth education, regardless of their formal titles.

The Neil Miner Award, presented annually by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers, honors outstanding contributions to stimulating interest in Earth sciences. Established in 1953, this prestigious award recognizes educators who embody personal excellence and effective teaching, inspired by Neil Miner's philosophy. Nominations are open to NAGT members, who may submit a letter of nomination, letters of support, and the nominee's curriculum vitae. This award promotes excellence in geoscience education and celebrates dedicated educators.

The Chisholm Foundation offers grants to support arts, education, and religion projects across the United States. Applications for May and November grants should be submitted by March 1st and September 1st, respectively. The Foundation evaluates each application individually and encourages innovative projects that can attract additional funding. Grants may be awarded as lump sums or in installments, and applicants are advised to seek matching gifts to enhance their proposals.

The JGE Outstanding Paper Award, presented by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers, recognizes exceptional contributions to geoscience education. Nominations are open to JGE readers, authors, and Editorial Board members, and must include a discussion of how the nominated paper enhances student learning, advances the discipline, or demonstrates significant societal impact. This prestigious award has been celebrating excellence in education since 1938.

The JGE Outstanding Reviewer Award, presented by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers, recognizes exceptional reviewers for their quality and quantity of contributions to the Journal of Geoscience Education. Eligible nominators include JGE authors and Editorial Board members, who must describe the nominee's outstanding peer-review contributions. This prestigious award aims to honor those who enhance the journal's integrity and effectiveness in geoscience education.

The NIH is set to release a funding opportunity for pragmatic and implementation trials aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of interventions in real-world healthcare settings. This initiative encourages collaborations across various health systems to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of interventions. By focusing on commonly encountered conditions in everyday clinical care, the trials aim to provide actionable insights for patients, clinicians, and policymakers. Interested investigators are encouraged to start developing their project proposals.

The National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT) has been promoting excellence in geoscience education since 1938. Through its sponsorships, NAGT aims to enhance visibility and impact within the geoscience community, fostering collaborations and expanding membership. Sponsorships support both long-term programs and single events, ensuring that NAGT is acknowledged and involved in all associated activities. This initiative aligns with NAGT's mission to provide effective Earth education to diverse audiences.

The National Fund for Sacred Places Grant Program supports historic houses of worship in the U.S. through matching grants ranging from $50,000 to $250,000. This initiative, in collaboration with the National Trust for Historic Preservation, aims to enhance community engagement and preserve culturally significant buildings. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate their historical relevance and community service, particularly those representing underrepresented groups. The program prioritizes urgent repair needs and projects that foster inclusivity and accessibility.

The Robert Christman Distinguished Service Award, established in 2008 by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers, honors individuals for their exceptional and long-term contributions to geoscience education. Named after Robert "Bob" Christman, who dedicated over thirty years of service, this award recognizes nominees who demonstrate significant impact at both national and section levels. Active NAGT members can submit nominations that detail the nominee's contributions, promoting excellence in the geoscience community.

The CCS High School Chemical Safety Grant, offered by the American Chemical Society, aims to enhance chemical safety in secondary education. Educators can apply for up to $3,000 to support initiatives like curriculum integration of safety practices, advocating for safe chemical usage, and improving safety infrastructure. Eligible applicants include middle and high school science teachers in the U.S. Grants cover training, equipment, and workshops to promote a culture of safety in educational environments.

The Fund for a Just Society Grant, offered by the Unitarian Universalist Association, supports nonprofit organizations that focus on social and economic justice through community organizing. This grant prioritizes innovative projects that seek systemic change and empower disenfranchised communities. Eligible organizations must operate with an annual budget under $500,000 and demonstrate a clear campaign for change. This funding aims to foster a more just society by addressing root causes and enhancing visibility for Unitarian Universalist principles.

The CTIA Wireless Foundation's Catalyst Grant Program aims to empower social entrepreneurs leveraging 5G technology to tackle critical challenges in American communities. With over $200,000 in unrestricted grants available, the program supports innovative projects that utilize 5G connectivity for social good. As 5G transforms communication and interaction, the Catalyst Grant seeks visionary leaders who can harness this potential to inspire meaningful change and enhance community engagement.

ASPCA Reimagining Racers: Grants for Adopting Out Retired Racehorses Grant

ASPCA Right Horse Adoption Partners, ASPCA Right Horse Industry Partners, and organizations actively participating in the warm-up ring (defined as groups that are actively working to achieve the 13 criteria for Partnership and are participating on myrighthorse.org) are invited to apply for a grant to support an increase in capacity and/or efficiency of programs aimed at adopting out retired Thoroughbred racehorses. 

Funding requests for this grant initiative should focus on:

Activities that increase capacity, decrease length of stay, reduce cost of care or increase efficiencies, and/or improve humane outcomes in other ways. Examples:

• Training programs
• Programs that engage new adopters and grow the market share for adoption
• Medical make-ready or rehabilitation with a focus on innovation and/or sustainability
• Collaborations with other equine industry organizations to increase support for retired racehorses

Proposals will be evaluated on their potential (within the 12-month grant term) to: 

• Increase capacity (the number of horses that can be rehabilitated, trained, and placed)
• Decrease length of stay
• Decrease cost of care
• Reduce risk, harm or suffering for retired racehorses

Requests may be for the creation of new programs or the expansion of existing programs. Programs that test innovative ideas are welcome.

Grant Amounts

Grants will generally range from $10,000-$40,000, with a maximum individual grant amount of $60,000. The total funding amount available for this grant opportunity is $200,000. 

Eligibility

ASPCA Right Horse Adoption Partners, ASPCA Right Horse Industry Partners, and active Warm-Up Ring participants (defined as groups that are actively working to achieve the 13 criteria for Partnership and are participating on myrighthorse.org) whose mission or operations focus significantly on serving retired Thoroughbred racehorses are eligible to apply for this grant opportunity. Adoption organizations must be up to date on reporting data biannually to the Equine Welfare Data Collective (EWDC). If you’re unsure about your eligibility, you may contact therighthorse@aspca.org to confirm before applying.   

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) was founded on the belief that animals are entitled to kind and respectful treatment by humans. We invite all voices to join us in working together to improve the lives of animals in need.

The ASPCA Right Horse Grants aim to enhance equine adoptions and support community equines by funding programs that boost shelter capacity or assist in keeping owned equines in their homes. Grants between $5,000 and $50,000 are available, with a total funding pool of up to $750,000. Eligible applicants include ASPCA Right Horse Adoption Partners and organizations committed to the welfare of retired Thoroughbred racehorses. Proposals should clearly outline the objectives and expected impacts.

The Fund for UU Social Responsibility Grant supports Unitarian Universalist organizations in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, focusing on social justice, community engagement, and fostering generosity. With backing from the Unitarian Universalist Association, the program encourages innovative projects that promote the values of Unitarian Universalism while enhancing community involvement. Grants are typically for one year, with potential for renewal based on project success and community impact.

The Zimmer Biomet Foundation offers educational grants to support organizations that focus on scientific, clinical, or healthcare education. These grants promote educational programs, independent conferences, and resident education, ensuring that the content remains unbiased and free from influence. Eligible applicants include educational institutions, training hospitals, and medical associations, while requests from individuals or private practices are not supported. By fostering education in healthcare, the foundation aims to improve community well-being and advance medical knowledge.

The Johanna Favrot Fund for Historic Preservation, established in 1994, supports public agencies and nonprofit organizations in their efforts to preserve historic environments. With grants ranging from $2,500 to $15,000, this highly competitive funding opportunity aims to foster appreciation for cultural heritage and enhance community livability. Eligible activities include planning, education, and preservation projects. Applicants must match the grant dollar-for-dollar and adhere to specific guidelines to ensure the success of their initiatives.

Bengier Foundation

After lots of hard work and more than a bit of luck, Gary and Cynthia were able to retire from professional business careers at an early age. They decided then to try to give back a little to their community and to others less lucky than they. So the Bengier Foundation was formed in 2004 to give a helping hand to bright, hardworking young people who need a little help to find their own success.

One of our goals is to help – in a small way – to focus attention on the need to increase our American educational capital. The dropout rate statistics are shocking. We must do more to help the next generation prepare for the increasing demands of our ever-more sophisticated information economy. The Bengier Foundation believes that we must give everyone a chance to achieve their potential.

Bengier Foundation Grants

The foundation's mission is to provide educational experiences that motivate, broaden and qualify bright, hard working young people who have limited means and limited opportunities to enlarge their expectations of what they can accomplish in life.

• By motivate we mean to change a young person’s expectations about themself, by providing experiences which pique their interest, or that let them see themself in a role or career that they never previously imagined.
• By broaden we mean to allow a young person to have experiences that broaden their perspective of the world or cause them to view it and their role in it differently.
• By qualify we mean to help a young person gain the experiences and education that will allow them to succeed in college and in life.