Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Missouri

The Mathew W. Placzek Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, offers a $5,000 scholarship for postgraduate law students pursuing a Juris Doctorate. Eligible applicants must be in their second or third year and have graduated from specific high schools or universities in Missouri. Required materials include a transcript, an essay, and a letter of good standing. This scholarship aims to support students in their educational and professional aspirations.

The Alleghany Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) organization in Virginia, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the Alleghany Highlands through strategic funding initiatives. It seeks grant applications that address key areas such as economic transformation, educational excellence, health and wellness, community capacity, and civic leadership. By prioritizing innovative projects and supporting local organizations, the Foundation aims to foster sustainable growth and community engagement, ensuring a vibrant future for the region.

The Lozier Foundation

The Lozier Foundation is a private family foundation based in Omaha, Nebraska, funded by Allan and Dianne Lozier. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations working to expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life for people and families who have historically had less access to resources.

The Foundation’s grantmaking is grounded in a long-term commitment to Omaha and the surrounding region. We are especially interested in work that helps level the playing field, supports people during important moments of need or transition, and gives individuals and families greater ability to make choices about their own lives and futures.

The Foundation’s support has historically focused on established nonprofit organizations working in areas such as education, human services, youth development, health, family stability, and community well-being. While those areas describe much of our grantmaking, they are not intended to serve as fixed categories or a comprehensive list.

The Foundation is selective in its grantmaking. We generally support organizations with a meaningful operating history, capable leadership, sound governance, financial discipline, and a demonstrated ability to serve the community effectively. The Foundation does not typically support early-stage organizations, small projects or organizations with limited reach, or requests that fall outside our geographic and charitable priorities.

The Foundation also considers whether a request reflects a clear understanding of the existing community landscape. We are generally skeptical of efforts that duplicate services already being provided effectively by other organizations, particularly when collaboration, coordination, or partnership would better serve the community. Organizations seeking support should be prepared to explain how their work fits within the broader field, who they collaborate with, and why the proposed work is needed.

Grants

Grantseekers wishing to apply to the Lozier Foundation should begin by reviewing the Mission, Values, Funding Priorities and Funding Eligibility Statements.

The Lozier Foundation grant applications include: Capital Application; Education Application; General Application; and Program Application.

Organizations may receive general operating, program, and capital grants. While The Lozier Foundation prefers to provide ongoing general operating support, organizations can receive a program and/or capital grant in the same calendar year.

Lozier Foundation General Application

Funding Priorities

• Education
• Women & Girls
• North Omaha Initiatives
• Human Services

The General Application follows the foundation guidelines provided here.

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Fund for Community Good supports projects that promote equity and justice across various sectors, including education, health, and economic prosperity. This unrestricted fund invites partnerships with 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, primarily focusing on Kent County, Michigan. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusive opportunities, ensuring all community members can thrive. Eligible applicants can submit pre-applications year-round for potential funding.

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. 

FDH Scholarship

This fund was established in honor of FDH by his family to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors of high schools within the 18- county region of The Community Foundation pursuing degrees in Agriculture, Business, or Health Care.

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

The Matt Bushey Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, awards a $1,000 scholarship to a postgraduate student enrolled in an accredited graduate education program. Eligible applicants must currently teach in specified Missouri schools, including Dadeville and Fair Play. An essay is required as part of the application process. This scholarship reflects the foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and supporting aspiring educators in their academic pursuits.

The Lozier Foundation

The Lozier Foundation is a private family foundation based in Omaha, Nebraska, funded by Allan and Dianne Lozier. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations working to expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life for people and families who have historically had less access to resources.

The Foundation’s grantmaking is grounded in a long-term commitment to Omaha and the surrounding region. We are especially interested in work that helps level the playing field, supports people during important moments of need or transition, and gives individuals and families greater ability to make choices about their own lives and futures.

The Foundation’s support has historically focused on established nonprofit organizations working in areas such as education, human services, youth development, health, family stability, and community well-being. While those areas describe much of our grantmaking, they are not intended to serve as fixed categories or a comprehensive list.

The Foundation is selective in its grantmaking. We generally support organizations with a meaningful operating history, capable leadership, sound governance, financial discipline, and a demonstrated ability to serve the community effectively. The Foundation does not typically support early-stage organizations, small projects or organizations with limited reach, or requests that fall outside our geographic and charitable priorities.

The Foundation also considers whether a request reflects a clear understanding of the existing community landscape. We are generally skeptical of efforts that duplicate services already being provided effectively by other organizations, particularly when collaboration, coordination, or partnership would better serve the community. Organizations seeking support should be prepared to explain how their work fits within the broader field, who they collaborate with, and why the proposed work is needed.

Grants

Grantseekers wishing to apply to the Lozier Foundation should begin by reviewing the Mission, Values, Funding Priorities and Funding Eligibility Statements.

The Lozier Foundation grant applications include: Capital Application; Education Application; General Application; and Program Application.

Organizations may receive general operating, program, and capital grants. While The Lozier Foundation prefers to provide ongoing general operating support, organizations can receive a program and/or capital grant in the same calendar year.

Lozier Foundation Program Application

Funding Priorities

• Education
• Women & Girls
• North Omaha Initiatives
• Human Services

The Program Application follows the foundation guidelines provided here.

The Matthew J. England Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, offers a $1,000 award to deserving students pursuing higher education. Applicants must be graduating high school seniors from local schools or homeschooled, have a GPA of 3.5 or above, and demonstrate financial need through FAFSA-SAI. Participation in community service and school activities is required, along with a recommendation letter from a counselor. The scholarship aims to support educational aspirations and foster community engagement.

The Royalty Fields Grant Program, presented by the Kansas City Royals Foundation, supports the enhancement of youth baseball and softball facilities across the Midwest. This initiative offers matching grants for major renovations, including essential upgrades such as new sod, infields, fencing, and dugouts. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations or local government entities that can demonstrate secured funding. Grants aim to foster safe and improved playing conditions for youth athletes.

The Michael Vyrostek Musicians Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, offers a $1,000 scholarship to graduating high school seniors from specific schools in Missouri. Eligible students must have participated in a music program for two of their four high school years and are required to submit an essay and describe their community service. This fund aims to support aspiring musicians in their pursuit of higher education.

The PTSC Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, awards $2,500 to an undergraduate student at Missouri State University-Springfield. Applicants must be in their second or third year, have graduated from a Missouri high school, and submit an essay. Eligible candidates should be majoring in Education and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This scholarship aims to support students in their pursuit of higher education.

The Asian Cultural Council's Graduate Fellowship provides financial support for travel and living expenses to graduate students from Asia studying in the U.S. It offers $15,000 for one academic year, potentially renewable for another year, covering essential costs while pursuing full-time coursework. This initiative fosters international cultural exchange and enhances academic training in the arts. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in accredited graduate programs and commit to at least two consecutive semesters of study.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

The Harold H. Lurie MD Scholarship, provided by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, awards a $450 grant to postgraduate medical students entering their second, third, or fourth year at the University of Missouri School of Medicine. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial need through FAFSA-SAI, maintain good academic standing, and submit a personal essay. This scholarship supports students dedicated to advancing their medical education and career in healthcare.

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. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Day, Roger Scholarship

This fund was established in memory of Roger Day’s dedication to Hillyard Technical Center and his life-long contribution to education. The fund provides academic scholarships to Hillyard Technical Center students in the welding program.

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. 

St Joseph School District Foundation ECHO Scholarship

Established by ECHO to be awarded to a graduating second-year student that will be employed in the construction field after graduation from high school OR continuing postsecondary training in the field of construction.

The Health Forward Foundation offers event sponsorships to non-profit organizations that promote health equity and community well-being. Focusing on initiatives that foster racial equity and economic justice, the foundation prioritizes educational events and advocacy efforts within its region. Sponsorships support activities that align with their mission while ensuring that only specific types of fundraisers are considered. This commitment enriches community partnerships and strengthens the impact of local organizations.

The Dr. William M. Walker Memorial Medical Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, awards a $9,000 grant to a postgraduate student entering their final year of medical school in Missouri or Iowa. Preference is given to veteran applicants. Eligible candidates must provide a letter of good standing, a personal essay, and a letter of recommendation. This scholarship aims to support future medical professionals in achieving their educational goals.

The Dr. Thomas E. and Mary M. Ashley Medical Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides an $8,000 grant to a postgraduate student in their third or fourth year at the University of Missouri School of Medicine–Springfield. Eligible candidates must demonstrate academic excellence and financial need, supported by a FAFSA-SAI form, a letter of good standing, and a personal essay, along with a letter of recommendation.

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. 

Nold, Chad R Family Scholarship

This fund was established in memory of Chad Nold by his family to provide academic scholarships to students pursuing a Business degree at Missouri Western State University.

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. 

Nold, Chad R Family Scholarship

This fund was established in memory of Chad Nold by his family to provide academic scholarships to students pursuing a Business degree at Missouri Western State University.

The Patterson Foundation offers Assistance Dog Program Grants to support organizations providing service animals to veterans and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available for projects that expand capacity, personnel costs related to puppy training, and program support aimed at improving client experiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and can request grants up to $35,000 for capital projects or $10,000 for program support. Applications are accepted through a two-step process.

The Ann and Doug Sickles Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, awards $2,800 to an undergraduate student in their third or fourth year pursuing a degree in Health or Social Science at a Missouri college. Preference is given to students from specific high schools in Missouri. Applicants must maintain a GPA of at least 2.5 and provide a transcript along with a personal essay detailing their community service efforts.

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. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Barton, Elmer Scholarship

This scholarship program was initiated to recognize the leadership of Mr. Elmer Barton in the field of Industrial Technology. One scholarship recipient will be selected annually to receive a $500.00 scholarship. 

The Rural Business Development Grants in Missouri support small rural businesses by providing technical assistance and training. Eligible projects benefit rural areas outside urban centers with populations over 50,000. Funding is prioritized for smaller requests, with no maximum grant amount. Grants can be utilized for various purposes, including training, land development, pollution control, and community economic development. This program aims to foster growth and sustainability in rural economies.

The A+ Scholarship Program, managed by the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development, offers financial assistance to graduates of A+ designated high schools who enroll in participating community colleges or vocational schools. This merit-based scholarship covers tuition and fees after non-loan federal aid has been applied, and eligibility requires maintaining academic standards and fulfilling certain attendance and mentorship criteria. It supports students in achieving educational and career success.

Mark's Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, offers a $2,000 scholarship aimed at high school seniors from specific local schools. This renewable scholarship supports students maintaining a 2.5 GPA while enrolled in an accredited institution. Eligible candidates must demonstrate financial need and submit necessary documents, including an essay and a letter of recommendation, to pursue their higher education goals.