Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Nebraska

The Community Foundation of Grant County offers over 120 scholarship opportunities for U.S. citizens and eligible noncitizens pursuing higher education at accredited institutions. With more than $1 million awarded annually, the foundation supports students of all backgrounds and academic abilities. Scholarships are competitive and aimed at covering qualified educational expenses, including tuition and fees. Applicants are encouraged to collaborate on proposals, enhancing community impact through education and development.

Bright Minds Scholarship

The Bright Minds Scholarship, in conjunction with the Salem Five Charitable Foundation, supports academic excellence and community leadership across Essex and Middlesex counties. We recognize that the journey to a four-year degree requires significant dedication—and significant resources.

To support that journey, we provide a scholarship award designed to make a real-world impact on the cost of higher education.

The Award

• 5 Scholars Selected Annually: Each year, we name five exceptional students as Bright Minds Scholars.
• Up to $20,000 total: Awarded as $5,000 annually over four years of undergraduate study.
• Maintain good academic standing to receive support throughout your entire bachelor's degree program.

The Salem Five Charitable Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. Scholarship awards are granted without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or disability. Final selection of scholarship recipients is at the sole discretion of the Salem Five Executive Committee in partnership with the Phillips Scholarship Fund.

Welcome to the Greater Houston Community Foundation Scholarship Application Site!   

The Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF) administers a variety of unique scholarship funds that grant over $5.7 million annually to college students. The scholarship funds have been established by thoughtful and generous donors and each has a unique set of eligibility criteria and award structure.

Scholarship Application Info:  

Greater Houston Community Foundation administers over 60 different scholarship programs, each with differing eligibility requirements. Eligibility for some scholarships may be dependent on employment, course of study, high school, or college. 

Bratcher Family Foundation Scholarship

This is a renewable scholarship, meaning recipients can renew the award for multiple years funding if they meet the GPA and enrollment requirements and complete the renewal application for each academic year they plan to be enrolled.

About the Scholarship Award

• One (1) new scholarship awarded annually. Scholarship award amounts and renewal durations vary by degree type:
  • 4-year degree at a college/university - $6,000 per academic year
    • Renewable for up to four (4) years of funding maximum ($24,000 in total), as long as the student meets renewal requirements
• 2-year degree at a trade school/community college - $4,000 per academic year
  • Renewable for up to two (2) years of funding maximum ($8,000 in total), as long as the student meets renewal requirements

What can the scholarship be used for?

• The scholarship will be mailed directly to the student's college to be used towards tuition, required academic fees, and/or book expenses. 
• Scholarship funding cannot be distributed directly to the student. Funding cannot be used for room and board, rent, meal plans, parking passes, or other similar living expenses.

Are there any requirements I must meet if I'm selected as a scholarship recipient?

• Recipients must attend an accredited university, community college, or trade school in the United States.
• Recipients must enroll in at least 12 credit hours for both the fall and spring semesters (or be enrolled full-time according to your school if it is on a different system).
• Recipients must submit college enrollment information online through GHCF Scholar the summer before the academic year begins. This information is required in order for the scholarship check to be mailed to the student's college. Instructions will be included in the student's award letter.
• Recipients must meet certain criteria in order to receive subsequent annual awards (i.e., renewals): maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75, be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours per semester, and complete the renewal application for each academic year they planned to be enrolled.

The Carolyn and Bill Franck Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, provides essential financial support for graduating high school seniors from Henry County or Martinsville pursuing post-secondary education in various fields. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of at least 2.5 and demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA. This scholarship aims to empower deserving students by facilitating their educational aspirations in accredited institutions.

The Clarence Lee Lester Educational Fund, administered by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, provides scholarships to deserving students pursuing higher education. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors with a minimum 2.5 GPA and a connection to First Baptist Church in Martinsville, VA. This scholarship aims to support capable individuals in their academic journeys, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their educational aspirations. For more information, contact the Foundation directly.

The Gerald & Sybil Cohen Family Foundation Scholarship aims to ease the financial burden of college costs for students pursuing education in STEM fields. Open to U.S. citizens aged 18 and older with a minimum GPA of 3.5, the scholarship is available for public colleges and universities. Preference is given to dependents of former employees of Information Builders, Inc. Awards are not guaranteed and may vary in amount.

The Davis B. and Barbara J. Francis Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, provides educational scholarships to deserving students in the Roanoke Valley. It aims to support graduating seniors or former graduates pursuing careers in technical theatre or performing arts. Applicants must demonstrate significant contributions to their school's theatre arts program and enroll in an accredited college or technical school. Financial need is considered but not the primary criterion.

The Dillon Family Scholarship Fund, established by James M. Dillon, provides financial assistance for higher education to deserving students from specific regions in Virginia. Administered by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, this scholarship supports students who demonstrate financial need and academic potential. Eligible candidates must be graduating seniors from designated public high schools, enrolling in accredited colleges or trade schools. Preference is given to graduates from Alleghany High School, ensuring targeted support for local students.

The Dorothy and Julien Meyer, Sr., M.D. Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, provides scholarships to graduating seniors from Roanoke Valley high schools pursuing premedical studies. This fund aims to support deserving students with financial need, ensuring they can achieve their educational goals. The Foundation administers various scholarships and encourages students to inquire for detailed eligibility criteria and application processes.

The Valley Hospital Auxiliary has been supporting future healthcare professionals since 1961 by providing scholarships to high school seniors and undergraduate students. In 2025, they awarded $30,000 to 21 exceptional students who have shown academic excellence and a commitment to healthcare. This initiative not only benefits the recipients but also contributes to the community by nurturing the next generation of medical leaders. Eligible high school students can reapply throughout their college years, ensuring continuous support for their educational journeys.

The Truman Scholarship, established by the Truman Foundation, supports college juniors committed to public service. It offers up to $30,000 for graduate studies, alongside mentoring and career development opportunities. Ideal candidates demonstrate leadership, a strong commitment to public service, and the potential for success in graduate school. This prestigious award aims to cultivate future leaders dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

The PCORI Call for Proposals for HSII Implementation Projects invites innovative approaches to address barriers in healthcare settings. These projects should enhance practice change through active, multi-component strategies and include rigorous evaluations to measure implementation effectiveness. While developing tools to support these strategies is permitted, it should not be the main focus. Successful proposals will demonstrate their potential impact on healthcare outcomes and patient experiences.

The Edwin K. Mattern, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, supports graduating seniors from the Roanoke Valley pursuing higher education in engineering or architecture. This renewable scholarship emphasizes academic achievement and financial need, requiring recipients to maintain a minimum GPA. Established to empower deserving students, the fund reflects the foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities in the community.

The Frank W. (Bo) Rogers Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, offers scholarships to graduating seniors from Roanoke Valley high schools. Eligible students must enroll in accredited colleges, demonstrate financial need, and show commitment to community service. Special consideration is given to applicants with a parent employed by Woods Rogers, PLC. The Foundation aims to support deserving students and help them achieve their higher education goals.

The Hooker Educational Fund Community Scholarships support deserving undergraduate students in Henry County or Martinsville, Virginia. Established by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, these scholarships aim to assist students who demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5, and show capability for college-level studies. The foundation has been a key philanthropic organization since 1988, managing numerous endowment funds to benefit the local community.

The Jean L. Price Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, supports underprivileged students from the Roanoke Valley. Eligible applicants include graduating seniors and full-time college students who demonstrate financial need. This scholarship aims to alleviate the financial burdens facing these deserving students, ensuring they have access to educational opportunities. As a vital resource, the scholarship reflects the Foundation's commitment to fostering academic success and community development.

The Outdoor Fund - Local Impact Grant supports local organizations and projects that enhance community engagement and align with conservation goals. With grants up to $5,000, eligible projects include youth fishing clinics and trail maintenance. Funded by Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s, this initiative exemplifies their commitment to wildlife conservation and connecting communities to the outdoors. Eligible applicants include municipalities and registered nonprofits in the U.S. and Canada, focusing on specific conservation efforts.

The 9.11 Promise Run Scholarships provide financial support to children of first responders and military personnel who have been killed or injured. Established in 2019, these scholarships range from $5,000 to $15,000 and can be applied toward trade school or college tuition. Eligible applicants must be under 25 years old and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Awards are issued directly to accredited institutions and can be renewed for up to six years, ensuring continued support for eligible students.

The CDC's NCIPC invites proposals for rigorous evaluations of programs aimed at preventing child sexual abuse (CSA) and problematic sexual behavior (PSB) among youth. This research aims to assess the effectiveness of prevention policies, especially in digital spaces and youth-serving organizations. Eligible proposals should address issues like online exploitation, harmful behaviors, and the impact of organizational policies on youth safety. This initiative seeks to enhance the evidence base for effective prevention strategies.

The CoreCivic Foundation Grant aims to support nonprofit organizations that help former offenders, victims of crime, and underserved youth. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charities with a commitment to measurable outcomes. Preference is given to those with a history of collaboration with CoreCivic and those operating in Tennessee. This grant provides essential resources to enhance the quality of services delivered to these vulnerable populations, fostering rehabilitation and community support.

The NAEMT Foundation Scholarships provide financial support for individuals pursuing careers in Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Scholarships are available for those seeking certification as Emergency Medical Responders (EMR) or Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT). Recipients must begin their educational programs in the awarded term and maintain good academic standing. Funds are paid directly to educational institutions. The foundation aims to strengthen the EMS profession through education and research funding.

The New York Health Foundation is offering sponsorship for nonprofits and community organizations to participate in conferences that support healthy communities, consumer empowerment, and veterans' health. This initiative aims to enhance the visibility of innovative work being done in New York, particularly for those historically marginalized. By facilitating attendance at local, state, and national events, the Foundation seeks to empower organizations to showcase their impactful programs and connect with key stakeholders.

The Youth in Foster Care Scholarship Fund offers financial support to young adults from the New Mexico foster care system who seek to develop skills or pursue higher education. Aimed at those aging out of foster care, the fund provides opportunities for both full-time and part-time students at accredited institutions. Eligible applicants include high school seniors, recent graduates, and GED holders, all with a commitment to enhancing their education and future career prospects.

The Schulze College Scholarships provide U.S. citizens with financial support for four years of full-time college enrollment at accredited institutions. Annually, up to 46 scholarships worth $20,000 each are awarded to students demonstrating strong academic performance and community involvement. The program, initiated by the Schulze Family Foundation in 2014, aims to reduce student debt and enhance the college experience by allowing recipients to focus on their studies and personal growth.

A. M. and May Abel Memorial Scholarship

Anthony M. Abel, brother of W. H. Abel of Montesano, was born in Sussex, England and raised in Salina, Kansas.

He earned his law degree from the University of Kansas, and established a successful law practice in 1903. There he married May Rosmond. Abel went on to become one of western Washington’s most highly regarded lawyers.

The A. M. and May Abel Memorial Scholarship is open to all applicants who satisfy the general eligibility requirements of the Scholarship Program.

The Craig H. Neilsen Foundation offers Community Support Grants aimed at enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with spinal cord injuries (SCI). With a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, these grants support community-driven programs that promote independence and participation. Funding ranges from $25,000 to $200,000 annually for up to two years, addressing regional needs and removing barriers to access. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to empowering all individuals affected by SCI.

Dr. George H. Hitchings Memorial Scholarship

Born in Hoquiam in 1905, George H. Hitchings grew up in a family of shipbuilders. Hitchings’ father, George, Sr., worked at and eventually managed the Hoquiam shipyard that his father-in-law, Peter Matthews, established in 1897. 

From the late 1960s until his death in 1998, Dr. Hitchings became increasingly involved with philanthropy. He served as President of the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, a nonprofit foundation which supports biomedical research, and he led several charities in the Research Triangle Park area of North Carolina, where Burroughs Wellcome had relocated in 1968. In 1983, Dr. Hitchings founded the Greater Triangle Community Foundation, which serves the Triangle area.

While preference will be given to applicants interested in studying science or medicine, the George H. Hitchings Memorial Scholarship is open to all applicants who satisfy the general eligibility requirements of the Scholarship Program.