Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Missouri

Wegmans Family Foundation Inc focuses on cultivating healthy communities through support for hunger relief, health initiatives, education, and youth programs. They prioritize collaborations with local nonprofits to enhance community well-being, offering assistance in key areas like economic mobility and youth engagement. Despite their wide-ranging support, they have specific ineligibility criteria, such as not accommodating personal requests or solicitation on their property, aiming to direct resources effectively where they are needed most.

The Missouri Humanities Mini Grants support nonprofit projects focusing on Veterans Initiatives, Literacy Festivals, Film Projects, and themes aligned with their annual Signature Series. Grants provide funding up to $5,000 for innovative humanities-based projects that enhance community engagement. While alignment with specific themes is preferred, it is not mandatory, ensuring a broad range of impactful projects can be considered. This initiative fosters cultural enrichment and educational opportunities across Missouri.

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

The Elevance Health Foundation's Behavioral Health Grant aims to address significant challenges in mental health and substance use disorders. With a commitment of up to $90 million over three years, the Foundation seeks partnerships with nonprofits to enhance treatment access, promote prevention strategies, and alleviate loneliness among affected individuals. This initiative emphasizes innovative solutions and measurable outcomes, targeting both national and local programs, particularly in states with pressing health disparities.

The FDC Foundation, established in 2008, is a private non-profit dedicated to providing grants to 501(c)(3) public charities across three main areas: Health & Nutrition, Education, and Housing. The foundation supports initiatives that improve nutrition, assist diabetic individuals, enhance early childhood development, and promote housing opportunities for those in need. However, it does not fund for-profit entities or international organizations, nor does it provide grants for specific excluded purposes.

The Gabby Girls Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides a $550 grant to female undergraduate students in Missouri entering their third or fourth year at a four-year accredited college or university. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, demonstrate financial need through FAFSA-SAI, and submit a transcript, personal essay, and details about their community service and work experience. This scholarship aims to support women's education and empowerment.

The Aroid Fellowship, offered by the Missouri Botanical Garden, supports young scientists in botany and plant sciences, particularly in Neotropical aroid research. This fellowship provides funding for research and training at MBG in St. Louis, covering travel, lodging, and stipends for living expenses. Open to students and young professionals with recent degrees, it encourages independent research or collaboration with MBG scientists, fostering professional growth and access to extensive botanical resources.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Kelsey Family Scholarship for Nursing and Biomedical Engineering

This scholarship was established by Rick and Darla Kelsey in memory and patrimony of Richard and Greta Kelsey and their ancestors. For six generations, the Kelsey family farmed in the Kansas River Valley near Topeka. They were active in Freemasonry and devoted to charitable work and service to their church and community.

This is a one-time award. Students can reapply annually to be considered for a scholarship.

The Alwyn H. Gentry Fellowship, offered by the Missouri Botanical Garden, supports young scientists from Latin America in the fields of botany and plant sciences. This fellowship provides funding for research and training at the Garden in St. Louis, including access to valuable resources and a stipend for living expenses. It honors Dr. Alwyn H. Gentry's legacy and aims to facilitate professional development through independent research or collaboration with MBG scientists.

The Aloyce and James Barnhill Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, supports a graduating high school senior or undergraduate student pursuing education at Mineral Area College, Three Rivers College, or Southeast Missouri State University. This $900 scholarship requires applicants to demonstrate financial need through a FAFSA-SAI form and submit a personal essay. It aims to alleviate financial barriers for students aiming for higher education in Missouri.

The NCR-SARE Research and Education Grant Program supports innovative agricultural projects that are environmentally sound and socially responsible. Grants ranging from $10,000 to $250,000 are available for projects lasting up to 36 months, promoting collaboration among researchers, educators, and producers. This program emphasizes outreach, farmer involvement, and research on topics such as sustainable pest management, local food systems, and crop diversification, addressing the economic and environmental aspects of agriculture.

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation is a leading philanthropic organization founded in 1978 that inspires and facilitates charitable giving to improve quality of life in the Greater Kansas City region and beyond. From its modest beginnings, the Foundation has grown into one of the nation’s most respected public charities, managing billions in charitable assets and administering thousands of funds for individuals, families, and businesses. Through donor-advised funds and other giving vehicles, it helps donors give strategically and effectively while providing education, leadership on key community issues, and personalized guidance that amplifies lasting community impact.

Inez Y. Kaiser GKC-PRSA Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Dr. Inez Y. Kaiser Scholarship, offered by the Public Relations Society of America Greater Kansas City Chapter, honors the legacy of Inez Y. Kaiser, a trailblazing public relations leader and the first Black woman to own a national PR firm. The scholarship supports African American/Black college juniors and first-semester seniors nationwide who are enrolled in an accredited public relations or communications program and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. The $5,000 award recognizes students who demonstrate leadership, commitment to public relations excellence, and volunteerism—hallmarks of Dr. Kaiser’s career. Additional consideration is given to PRSSA members, PRSSA chapter leaders, and residents of Kansas or Missouri, though residency is not required. Scholars also receive recognition and networking opportunities to support their professional development.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. 

Forty and Eight Scholarship

This fund was established by World War I Veterans to provide academic scholarships to individuals obtaining a nursing or medical degree. Forty and eight refers to forty men and eight horses/mules to a French train boxcar during World War I.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in August. 

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Harvest Ball Founders' Scholarship Fund

The Harvest Ball Founders’ Scholarship is created to honor the founders of the Harvest Ball Society, Patty Garney and Sandra Doolin Melinger in recognition of the leadership they demonstrated in establishing that organization to address numerous charitable needs in Clay and Platte Counties. The scholarship will be awarded to students in secondary school, military or other organizations who have demonstrated outstanding leadership.

Simmons First Foundation: Environmental Grant

Amount:

• $2,500 up to $25,000

These funds are to be used for conservation and/or environmental purposes. We prefer the projects support the overall theme of youth (K-12) in the fields of education or health care, however, we do have flexibility on projects that will have an indirect impact on youth. Categories for this grant include, but not limited to: water, air, hunting/fishing, forestry, outdoor education, energy, etc.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.

The Giving Branch Scholarship, funded by Flat Branch Mortgage, Inc. employees, aims to support working adults in pursuing higher education within the communities served by Flat Branch. This scholarship offers financial assistance ranging from $500 to $5,000, targeting individuals aged 25 and older who meet specific employment, residency, and academic criteria. By investing in education, the Giving Branch Foundation seeks to empower local residents and contribute positively to the community.

The WGPF: Legends & Lore Marker Grant Program celebrates and promotes local folklore, legends, and folklife as vital aspects of cultural heritage. Targeted at 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities across 14 US states, it aims to enhance cultural tourism by commemorating community stories. Successful applications typically focus on folktales, historical legends, and community traditions, while excluding purely literary works or personal folklore that lacks broader community significance.

The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

Simmons First Foundation: Mini Grant

Amount:

• $1,000 up to $2,500 
•  Projects must pertain to youth (K-12) in the fields of education or health care. Mini Grants are for immediate (long-term) needs for programs and entities must be a 501c3 organization.

Simmons First Foundation: Make a Difference Grant

Amount:

• $2,500 up to $50,000

For the upcoming grant cycle, funding will be limited to programs focused on:Special Education:  K-12 Youth with disabilities, including physical disabilities, developmental and cognitive disabilities, and sensory impairments.   (examples including):

• Inclusive theater and performing arts programs
• Adapted, hands-on STEM learning
• Accessible coding, robotics, and maker-space activities
• Science-based learning adapted for diverse abilities
• Assistive technology and adaptive learning tools
• Adaptive physical education and recreation programs

Substance Abuse and Violence Prevention:  K-12 Youth (examples including):

• Evidence-based prevention programs targeting alcohol, opioids, vaping, and other substance use
• Skill-building programs that focus on refusal skills, decision making, coping strategies, and peer pressure resistanc
• Early intervention programs for at-risk youth
• Recovery support services for youth in early recovery (including peer support groups, mentoring, and relapse prevention planning)
• Youth-focused programs that teach emotional regulation, anger management, and non-violent communication
• Intervention programs for youth exposed to or at risk of violence
• Peer mediation and restorative justice programs that reduce disciplinary incidents and promote accountability

The California Casualty Music & Arts Grant supports K-12 public schools facing budget cuts that threaten their music and arts programs. Eligible applicants, who must be active employees of public K-12 schools and members of specified educator associations, can request grants of $250 for music or arts needs. This initiative aims to enhance creative education across the states, excluding AK, HI, MA, MI, NY, and WI. Applications received by July 15 will be notified by November 30.

The Arthur G. Tesar Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides two renewable $2,000 scholarships for graduating high school seniors planning to attend Missouri State University or Ozarks Technical Community College. Applicants must have a GPA between 2.5 and 3.0, be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours, and demonstrate financial need. Required application materials include a transcript, personal essay, and details of community service involvement.

The Shirley A. Graham Fellowship, offered by the Missouri Botanical Garden, supports young scientists from Latin America, Madagascar, Vietnam, and Tanzania in advancing their careers in botany and plant sciences. This fellowship provides funding for research and training at MBG in St. Louis, covering travel, lodging, and various expenses. Fellows gain access to extensive resources, fostering professional growth through interdisciplinary activities. This initiative honors Dr. Shirley A. Graham's contributions to plant taxonomy and evolution.

The GPCAH Community Pilot Grant supports innovative research and outreach aimed at enhancing the health and safety of agricultural workers in the Midwest. Funded by NIOSH, this program encourages projects focusing on critical issues like mental health, injury prevention, and chemical safety. With grants up to $30,000, it invites collaboration from various organizations, particularly those within the nine-state region. Special emphasis is placed on proposals addressing the needs of underrepresented groups in agriculture.

The Mabee Foundation provides challenge grants for projects in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas, primarily focusing on construction, renovation, and major medical equipment purchases. Organizations must raise 40% of project costs from other donors before applying. Grants can reach up to 20% of total costs, with a maximum of $2 million. Applications are considered quarterly, requiring submissions by specific deadlines for review at upcoming board meetings.