Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Nebraska

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation

The Northern Piedmont Community Foundation (NPCF) began in December 2000 when nine concerned citizens from Virginia’s Piedmont region were searching for solutions to the charitable needs in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, and Rappahannock counties. With modest beginnings, our funds have grown to over $39 million in support of local charities, scholarships and community need in our northern Piedmont region.

Scholarships

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation manages the scholarship application process for dozens of scholarships for students in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, and Rappahannock counties (as well as a handful serving students from surrounding counties too). 

Fauquier NAACP – Dr. Ellsworth Weaver Education Scholarship

The Dr. Ellsworth Weaver Education Scholarship celebrates the legacy of Dr. Ellsworth Weaver, a former president of the Fauquier County NAACP Branch 7059 and a dedicated advocate for education and equality. Each year, a $1,000 scholarship is awarded to one graduating senior from each of Fauquier County’s three public high schools. Eligible applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA and plan to attend an accredited trade, technical, or vocational school, community college, or four-year university. Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership, service, citizenship, and extracurricular involvement.

Minority students, those facing financial or personal hardships, and individuals committed to improving their communities are strongly encouraged to apply. As part of the required essay, applicants should describe a significant challenge or barrier they encountered during their educational journey and explain how they overcame that difficulty.

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation

The Northern Piedmont Community Foundation (NPCF) began in December 2000 when nine concerned citizens from Virginia’s Piedmont region were searching for solutions to the charitable needs in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, and Rappahannock counties. With modest beginnings, our funds have grown to over $39 million in support of local charities, scholarships and community need in our northern Piedmont region.

Scholarships

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation manages the scholarship application process for dozens of scholarships for students in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, and Rappahannock counties (as well as a handful serving students from surrounding counties too). 

Dr. Eric J. Maybach Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established in memory of a local family practitioner, Dr. Eric J. Maybach. Dr. Maybach treated countless residents of Fauquier County, and in his honor, a scholarship was created. Qualifying applicants must be a resident of Fauquier County and pursuing a degree in medicine – medical school, nurse practitioner, physician’s assistant. Award amount varies.

Jack and Jill - Jacqueline Moore Bowles Scholarship

The Jack and Jill of America Foundation is committed to the positive development of youth and future leaders. Through providing programs focused on financial literacy, education, mentoring, health and wellness, and early childhood development, the Foundation promotes the preparation of succeeding generations of leaders.

In partnership with UNCF, the Jack and Jill of America Foundation - Jacqueline Moore Bowles Scholarship was developed to provide a one-time need-based scholarship of up to $2,500 to service-oriented undergraduate students majoring in Communications. 

Applicants must have completed a minimum of 60 hours of volunteer and community service within 12 months preceding the application deadline. Awards will be issued in the 2025-2026 spring term.

The Villafane, Brandon, Scholarship offers a $2,000 award to a graduating senior from Beatrice High School who demonstrates mental toughness, a team-oriented attitude, and strong work ethic. Established by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, which has been supporting local education since 1987, this scholarship aims to recognize students who participate in sports such as football, basketball, or track. Financial need, academic achievement, and extracurricular involvement will also be considered.

UNCF STEM Scholars Program

The UNCF STEM Scholars Program is an initiative designed to identify and provide scholarship and academic support for students who aspire to earn STEM degrees and to pursue careers in STEM fields, awarding 75 scholarships. The program enables highly capable young people to pursue undergraduate STEM majors and prepares them for successful careers in a variety of STEM professions.

Individual Award

• Maximum total up to $25,000, please see Program Benefits below.

Through the generosity of fundholders and donors, NCCF has awarded more than half a million dollars in scholarships to assist students in Northwest Connecticut with the cost of higher education.

NCCF awards more than $530,000 in scholarships a year. 

Donald E. Heisinger Scholarship

Academic Focus:

• Accounting, Finance, or Business

Award:

• $750

Established by the Dillon Family, this scholarship is awarded to a student whose primary residence is in Torrington and who pursues, or intends to pursue, a degree in accounting, finance, or business at an accredited university or college. This scholarship is not financially need-based. (No FAFSA required)

The AO Spine NA Fellowship Award aims to fund post-graduate fellowship programs at institutions in North America, covering expenses such as stipends, research, and education. This award is limited in number and contingent upon available funding as determined by the AO Spine NA Board. Applications undergo a rigorous review based on established criteria, while the engagement of faculty and compliance with eligibility requirements are critical for the selection process.

Coast Guard Foundation

Founded in 1969, we’re a vital partner to the U.S. Coast Guard—tackling the toughest challenges confronting our heroes.

We’re there for members from enlistment to long after retirement, and our work strengthens the entire community. Through close collaboration with Coast Guard leadership, we’re able to respond to new and emerging needs effectively. Our investments support families, bolster unit morale, honor the Coast Guard’s mission at the national level, and more. Every day, Coast Guard members risk their lives to protect our country. When we stand together and show them our appreciation, we can ensure they remain always ready—no matter what.

Children of Commissioned Officers Scholarship - Returning Applicants

Description

Scholarship for Children of Active-Duty, Retired or Active Reserve Coast Guard Commissioned Officers

This application is intended for returning applicants only.

Support for education is a cornerstone of our commitment to the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard and their families. If you are the child of an active duty or retired Coast Guard commissioned officer you are eligible to apply.

When we began the scholarship program in 1990, we focused on one goal — providing Coast Guard families the opportunity to send their children to college. Since that time, the cost of higher education has sky-rocketed, making our original aspiration even more relevant for today’s Coast Guard families.

The Delano & Aldrich/Emerson Fellowship, established by the Architects Foundation, provides a unique opportunity for a young French architect to travel and study in the U.S. for three months. With a budget of $20,000, the fellowship emphasizes contemporary issues in architecture, including sustainability and inclusive design. Candidates aged 23 to 35, holding a degree in architecture, are eligible. This program aims to foster cross-cultural understanding and inspire future architects through immersive experiences.

Coast Guard Foundation

Founded in 1969, we’re a vital partner to the U.S. Coast Guard—tackling the toughest challenges confronting our heroes.

We’re there for members from enlistment to long after retirement, and our work strengthens the entire community. Through close collaboration with Coast Guard leadership, we’re able to respond to new and emerging needs effectively. Our investments support families, bolster unit morale, honor the Coast Guard’s mission at the national level, and more. Every day, Coast Guard members risk their lives to protect our country. When we stand together and show them our appreciation, we can ensure they remain always ready—no matter what.

Children of Commissioned Officers Scholarship - First-Time Applicants

Description

Scholarship for Children of Active-Duty, Retired or Active Reserve Coast Guard Commissioned Officers

This application is intended for first-time applicants only. 

Support for education is a cornerstone of our commitment to the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard and their families.

If you are the child of an active duty or retired Coast Guard commissioned officer you are eligible to apply. 

When we began the scholarship program in 1990, we focused on one goal — providing Coast Guard families the opportunity to send their children to college. Since that time, the cost of higher education has sky-rocketed, making our original aspiration even more relevant for today’s Coast Guard families.

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.

Medical & Health Professions Scholarship

Applicants must be pursuing a certificate or an Associate’s, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degree in medical and associated health professions.

Selection based upon (in order of priority):

• Financial need, academic ability, community and school service, and recommendations.

Awards

• Two $1,500 scholarships

Scholarship Overview

Since 1980, the Northern New York Community Foundation has awarded more than $28 million in scholarships to students from Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties.

10th Mountain Division (Light) Scholarship

The Fort Drum Chapter of the National Association of the 10th Mountain Division has established the 10th Mountain Division (Light) Scholarship for active or former 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) members or family members — spouse or child — of an active or former 10th Mountain Division (LI) soldier. The applicant or their military sponsor must also be a member of the National Association of the 10th Mountain Division. Membership information is available from the Association. Scholarship applicants may live anywhere and be in any year of full-time undergraduate study.

The Henry Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Awards Program supports early-career faculty in the chemical sciences at undergraduate institutions. Through institutional nominations, it provides $75,000 unrestricted research grants to enhance scholarly research and teaching. Eligible nominees must hold full-time tenure-line positions and be within their fourth to twelfth independent academic years, demonstrating a strong commitment to undergraduate education. This funding opportunity fosters the development of promising educators and researchers in the chemical sciences.

Jacquie Porter Scholarship for Aspiring Early Childhood Teachers in Austin ISD

Aspirations of becoming an early childhood educator.

Awards

• (1) $5,000.00

W. Thomas Musser Memorial Charitable Fund

Mission Statement

This fund has been initiated in memory of W. Thomas Musser (Tom Musser) and will provide grants to charitable organizations whose missions and activities most closely reflect those that Tom believed in and supported during his life time. A component of the fund will also be used to provide scholarships to individuals pursuing post-secondary education.

Scholarship

The W. Thomas Musser Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established to honor the life and legacy of W. Thomas (Tom) Musser. Tom believed deeply in the importance of education and life-long learning. 

The Tom Woodward Memorial Visual Arts Scholarship

The Tom Woodward Memorial Visual Arts Scholarship benefits students pursuing postgraduate studies at an accredited two-year or four-year college, university, or trade school. Art is not a required major for eligible applicants. This scholarship is renewable.

Application Requirements:

• High School Transcript, Essay, 3 Pieces of Artwork and References.

Eldon & Mary Jean Jensen Family Scholarship

The Jensen Family Scholarship was established by Eldon and Mary Jean Jensen to inspire graduating seniors to return and contribute to their hometown communities. Throughout their lives, Eldon and Mary Jean have dedicated themselves to serving and supporting the communities of Faith, Lemmon, Bison, Hettinger, and beyond— with a spirit of generosity and community commitment. 

Awarded fall semester of sophomore year.

To provide financial support to graduates of high schools in the Lemmon, SD area.

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

Marcia McKenzie Pay It Forward Scholarship

This scholarship is open to all majors, with priority given to women returning to school at Shasta College, or CSU Chico.

The Marcia McKenzie ‘Pay It Forward’ Scholarship Fund honors Marcia’s strong belief in a college education to further a person’s career goals and life path. She was the first of her family to attend and graduate from college, and benefitted throughout her life from that education. Years after her bachelor’s degree, she commuted to CSU, Chico to obtain a master’s degree while teaching full time at Shasta College. 

A wonderful mother and scratch cook, this scholarship was organized by her daughters and niece to honor her unwavering educational legacy. This scholarship is open to all majors, with preference given to applicants with an articulated career path, and life or community experiences that have delayed but clarified career intentions.

Harlan & Mae Niedermyer Scholarship

To provide financial support to graduates residing in Fall River County.

Jeff & Marcia Sveen Scholarship

To provide financial support to South Dakota graduates with preference given to Dakota Provisions, LLC personnel in Huron, SD.

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

Pucek Family Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund was established in honor of Bill, Jeannette, and Sidney Pucek.

Scholarship awards from this fund aim to benefit and support North State students pursuing an associate degree or certification in a vocational program.

South Dakota Community Foundation

As a statewide community foundation, we work with donors, nonprofits and community leaders to strengthen philanthropy in South Dakota every day.

Scholarships

At South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF), we proudly manage more than 350 scholarship funds in partnership with generous donors who are committed to supporting students. These scholarships offer countless opportunities to help ease the financial burden of continuing their education.

Wilmer & Esther Werner Family Scholarship

To provide financial support to graduates who plan to attend a college or technical school.

The Muenster, Theodore R. and Marcelene R. Scholarship is offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, which supports educational opportunities for Beatrice High School graduates. This scholarship is designated for students attending the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, with priority given to those demonstrating financial need and being the first in their family to attend college. Annually, the foundation provides over $55,000 in scholarships, contributing to a $3.8 million endowment fund.

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

REU Powering Redding’s Future Scholarship Fund

Redding Electric Utility (REU) is proud to offer students in the Redding community awards from the REU Powering Redding’s Future Scholarship, Program. The purpose of REU’s Program is to identify and support local students dreaming and planning to attend community college, a 4-year college/university, or technical school. The primary goals of REU’s Powering Redding’s Future program is to encourage Redding’s youth to consider a college/university or technical school education that may lead to career opportunities in the electric utility industry, preferably with REU. This program will award up to $50,000 in scholarships for local students each year.

All REU scholarships are offered to Redding residents.

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

REU Powering Redding’s Future Scholarship Fund

Redding Electric Utility (REU) is proud to offer students in the Redding community awards from the REU Powering Redding’s Future Scholarship, Program. The purpose of REU’s Program is to identify and support local students dreaming and planning to attend community college, a 4-year college/university, or technical school. The primary goals of REU’s Powering Redding’s Future program is to encourage Redding’s youth to consider a college/university or technical school education that may lead to career opportunities in the electric utility industry, preferably with REU. This program will award up to $50,000 in scholarships for local students each year.

All REU scholarships are offered to Redding residents.

South Dakota Community Foundation

As a statewide community foundation, we work with donors, nonprofits and community leaders to strengthen philanthropy in South Dakota every day.

Scholarships

At South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF), we proudly manage more than 350 scholarship funds in partnership with generous donors who are committed to supporting students. These scholarships offer countless opportunities to help ease the financial burden of continuing their education.

South Dakota Farm Bureau Scholarship

To provide financial support for scholarships as recommended by the South Dakota Farm Bureau.

The South Dakota Farm Bureau is committed to supporting agriculture across our state. This scholarship is designed to honor young people with a passion for agriculture and a dedication to their rural communities. It aims to provide scholarships to youth who plan to return to rural areas to work and contribute to the continued vitality of these communities.

The Cardiac Arrest Research Team (CART) Network RFP invites U.S.-based researchers to apply for funding from the American Heart Association. With a commitment of $3.4 million USD, the initiative aims to establish a cross-border research network to address critical gaps in cardiac arrest research. Teams will focus on improving detection, survival rates, and health outcomes through collaboration. This funding opportunity emphasizes team-based approaches in three priority research areas, with awards up to $1.7 million USD for competitive projects.