Best Grants for Education Nonprofits in Missouri

Education-focused 501(c)(3) organizations in Missouri seeking funding for capital projects, programs, or operating needs may be eligible for this opportunity supporting youth and community development. The Kerr Foundation also considers arts and culture, health, and human services initiatives, with a preference for Oklahoma but including Missouri among its eligible states.

Missouri nonprofits, 501(c)(3) organizations, and eligible businesses implementing education or community development projects in Missouri can access up to US $500,000 in in-kind support through state tax credits. With a mission to strengthen local communities, Missouri Department of Economic Development provides Neighborhood Assistance Program credits to help organizations attract private contributions for approved projects.

Missouri education and community nonprofits can access funding through Encova Foundation of West Virginia to support programs that improve communities and families, promote education, and encourage wellness. U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations with verifiable tax IDs, especially those impacting health, safety, and children or involving Encova associates, may be competitive applicants.

Education nonprofits and schools in Missouri seeking up to US $2,000 for reusable, long-lasting items may be eligible for this grant supporting rural community improvement. MFA Oil Foundation funds 501(c)(3) organizations and accredited educational institutions focused on education, youth, human services, or civic programs in communities where the company has a strong presence.

Missouri 501(c)(3) education and community organizations seeking support for charitable, religious, scientific, literary, or educational programs may be eligible for this funding. Willard and Pat Walker Charitable Foundation supports nonprofits in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Oklahoma; applicants must contact the Foundation at least 30 days before applying to discuss eligibility.

Nonprofit organizations in Missouri seeking support for education, health, social services, scientific research, performing arts, museums, scholarly publications, or historic preservation can apply for funding from the Clifford Willard Gaylord Foundation. Missouri education nonprofits may be especially interested, as the foundation supports a broad range of educational initiatives alongside other community-focused programs.

Education and community-focused 501(c)(3) organizations and other eligible entities serving Missouri’s Nixa area can apply for grants from Community Foundation of the Ozarks; awards up to US $10,000 support local projects. Funding may benefit education, culture, environment, health, family services, or economic development initiatives that address important community needs or foster collaboration.

Missouri 501(c)(3) education and Christian charitable organizations can seek funding for educational, scientific, religious, and arts and culture programs. Focused on these program areas, the Virginia H. Glasson Charitable Trust invites eligible nonprofits in Missouri and select other states to apply through the JPMorgan foundations online application system.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Missouri planning educational, medical, cultural, religious, or human services capital projects can seek challenge grants for construction, renovation, or major medical equipment. The Mabee Foundation supports projects across Missouri and nearby states, offering up to US $2,000,000 when at least 40% of project funding is already secured from public donors.

Established education and human services nonprofits in Missouri can seek program funding to expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life, especially for underrepresented urban populations. The Lozier Foundation prioritizes education, women and girls, North Omaha initiatives, and human services, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis and submitted via its Program Application process.

Established education and human services nonprofits in Missouri and other Lozier footprint communities can seek general operating, program, or capital support to expand opportunity and strengthen underrepresented urban communities. With a mission to improve quality of life, The Lozier Foundation prioritizes education, women and girls, North Omaha initiatives, and broader human services through its General Application, reviewed on a rolling basis.

Missouri education nonprofits serving urban and underrepresented communities can access funding through the Lozier Foundation Education Application to support learning initiatives. The family foundation prioritizes education, women and girls, human services, and North Omaha–style community initiatives in areas where Lozier has a corporate footprint, offering general operating, program, and capital support year-round.

Missouri education-focused 501(c)(3) nonprofits addressing education, hunger, or community servant support can request donations to meet fundamental community needs. Missouri education organizations can access funding through Casey's General Stores if they operate in a Casey’s community and follow the online donation request process, with decisions provided by email within about one month.

The Sandra Trudgen Dawson Award, established by the Coordinating Council for Women in History, commemorates the legacy of a remarkable scholar and leader. This award supports individuals in research, teaching, and service within women's and gender history, allowing recipients to cover costs for travel, materials, and projects that honor Sandra's commitment to collaboration and support in the field. It aims to foster connections among scholars and promote the advancement of women's history.

The Ed & Mildred Schroeder Scholarship, offered by the Coastal Bend Community Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life in the Coastal Bend through educational support. This scholarship is available to graduating seniors or current college students pursuing a degree in education, demonstrating financial need, and enrolled in at least 12 credit hours. By providing effective grants and scholarships, the foundation fosters community philanthropy and addresses local educational needs.

The AES Hawaiʻi Foundation Grant supports communities near AES Hawaiʻi’s renewable energy projects, focusing on social justice, education, environmental stewardship, and community health. Preference is given to nonprofit organizations in these areas, but statewide entities may also apply. Successful projects should align with the Foundation’s impact pillars, demonstrate measurable community benefits, and address unmet needs, ensuring long-term positive effects on the local community.

The Wan Chen and Ming Li Scholarship for International Study at WMU's College of Education and Human Development supports undergraduate and graduate students in non-English based study abroad programs. Applicants must be U.S. residents, enrolled in CEHD, and submit proof of acceptance into an international program along with a proposal outlining the experience's benefits for their academic and career goals. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities and make studying abroad more accessible.

The Jewell Schweitzer Quality of Life Grant Program, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, aims to support nonprofit organizations and government entities addressing pressing issues in Springfield-Greene County. With $120,000 available and individual awards up to $30,000, the program encourages innovative proposals without a matching requirement. Partnerships are welcomed, and all applicants must affirm non-discrimination in service provision, ensuring equitable access for all communities in need.

Missouri education nonprofits should note this $1,000 scholarship supports West Noble High School seniors pursuing 2- or 4-year colleges, with community service and specific majors preferred. Noble County Community Foundation funds qualified educational expenses like tuition, books, and academic fees at eligible post-secondary institutions, which may interest organizations assisting college-bound students.

The Vatterott Foundation offers grants to organizations in the Greater St. Louis Metropolitan Area focusing on four key areas: alleviating poverty, enhancing education, promoting public welfare, and supporting religious advancement. Applications are accepted yearly with specific deadlines. Eligible organizations must align with the Foundation's goals and practices, ensuring their proposals are for general operations, capital campaigns, or program support. Note that grants are not available for individuals.

The Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation, established in 1951 in Oklahoma, aims to support charitable organizations across the U.S., with a focus on education and local initiatives. Grants are awarded to qualified 501(C)(3) organizations, prioritizing projects that align with the foundation's mission in areas such as education, health, arts, and literacy. Interested applicants must submit a Letter of Inquiry before applying for funding, ensuring alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Adapted PE/Activity Program of the Year Award recognizes outstanding community-based initiatives aimed at enhancing the physical capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Organized by SHAPE America, this award highlights programs that provide inclusive physical education and recreational opportunities, ensuring that all participants can engage in healthy, active lifestyles. By showcasing best practices, the award promotes innovation and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, fostering an environment of inclusion and support in physical activity.

The Dr. Doris R. Corbett-Johnson Leaders for Our Future Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors young professionals under 36 who exhibit exceptional promise in scholarship, teaching, and leadership. This prestigious award is available in two categories: college/university and non-college/university, with a maximum of two recipients per category each year. By recognizing emerging leaders, SHAPE America aims to inspire a new generation dedicated to advancing health and physical education.

Just One More Grant aims to transform lives by providing financial support to individuals and nonprofit organizations in the U.S. who are overcoming challenges like mental health issues, drug misuse, and educational barriers. The foundation encourages applications from those committed to personal growth and community support. Though current grants are paused for nonprofits, interested individuals with actionable plans are invited to apply. More information and past winners can be found on their website.

About

Founded in 1971, the Mensa Foundation was established by members of American Mensa to extend the organization’s impact. While connected by a shared purpose, the Foundation operates independently, guided by its own Board of Trustees, strategic plan, and initiatives.

Grants & Fellowships

Catalyst Grant

Early-stage funding for bold ideas that deserve a chance to move forward. Open to anyone, from any background, with an idea worth exploring.

Details

Giving Ideas a First Chance

$10,000 in annual funding helps promising ideas take their next step.

The Catalyst Grant supports early-stage ideas that demonstrate originality and the potential for meaningful impact.

Funding may support one project or be shared among several, depending on the applications received and where funding can make the greatest difference.

Ideas can come from any discipline or background. They may grow from lived experience, independent inquiry, academic research, creative work, or connections between fields.

Funded projects should broadly align with the Mensa Foundation’s mission to unleash intelligence for the benefit of humanity.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Ginny and Jim Thompson Scholarship

Selection based upon (in order of priority):

Financial need, academic ability, recommendations, and an essay, “Why is education important to me?”

Awards

• One $1,000 scholarship

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Kent R. Smith Scholarship

Student must be pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in the field of education at an accredited college or university.

Selection based upon:

• Academic ability, financial need, demonstrated community and school service, and recommendations.

Various amounts up to $20,000 in scholarships