Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in New Jersey

The Caplan Foundation for Early Childhood provides grants to support innovative projects aimed at improving the welfare of young children in the U.S. The foundation focuses on early childhood welfare, education, and parenting education, promoting safe environments and effective teaching methods. Grants are awarded to projects with significant potential impact on children's lives, emphasizing national application and interest. Eligibility requires 501(c)(3) status, while ineligibility includes funding for foreign programs and capital equipment.

The Buckley Schools Marie Guyton Scholarship Endowment, established by the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, offers three scholarships annually to graduating seniors from Buckley Community Schools. These include the Marie Guyton Valedictorian Scholarship and the Eleanor Smith Salutatorian Scholarship, both of which require no application, as well as the competitive Marie Guyton Leadership Scholarship. This initiative aims to recognize and support the academic achievements and leadership potential of local students.

The Benzie Central Legacy Scholarship Endowment, established by the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Benzie County Central Schools pursuing postsecondary education. This scholarship emphasizes character, citizenship, and community service, while financial need and academic achievement are considered secondary. It aims to empower students to achieve their educational goals, fostering a spirit of giving back to the community that nurtured them.

The Wenatchee Bowling Association Scholarship, established in 2006, aims to recognize and reward youth bowlers in the Wenatchee Valley. Managed by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, this scholarship evaluates applicants based on leadership, citizenship, and academic achievements, alongside their bowling skills. Eligible candidates include graduating high school seniors and prior recipients in their first year of college, with the possibility of renewal through reapplication.

The Wenatchee Exchange Club Scholarship, established by the Wenatchee Exchange Club in 1959, supports college-bound seniors from Wenatchee and Eastmont high schools. This scholarship is awarded to students demonstrating excellence in academics, athletics, or extracurricular activities, and community involvement. Preference is given to children or grandchildren of current or deceased members of the Exchange Club. Administered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, it aims to foster educational opportunities for deserving students.

The Wenatchee Kiwanis Foundation Scholarship supports graduating seniors from Chelan or Douglas County high schools who demonstrate financial need and community service. Ideal candidates are Key Club members or have family ties to Kiwanis, showcasing above-average academic performance with a minimum GPA of 2.5. This scholarship emphasizes service to others, requiring at least 200 hours of community involvement during high school. It aims to empower well-rounded students committed to making a difference in their communities.

The Wenatchee Rotary Foundation Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, aims to enhance educational opportunities for graduates from the Wenatchee area. This scholarship supports full-time students pursuing higher education, particularly those who are first-generation college attendees. Candidates must demonstrate academic strength, leadership, and community service, with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Special consideration is given to applicants with financial need, fostering a more inclusive educational environment.

The Wenatchee Women’s Bowling Association – Opal Wickland Scholarship, established by Cheryl Pope, honors the legacy of top bowler Opal Wickland. This scholarship supports youth bowlers in the Wenatchee Valley, encouraging them to pursue higher education. Eligible applicants include graduating high school seniors entering college, who demonstrate academic achievement. The WBA aims to recognize and reward dedication to bowling, while helping students achieve their educational dreams.

The William and Elizabeth Robinson Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports graduating seniors from Chelan or Douglas county high schools who demonstrate significant financial need. Ideal candidates are hardworking, motivated students with a GPA between 3.3 and 3.80. This scholarship honors the Robinsons' legacy of valuing education and community service, assisting those who aspire to pursue higher education and contribute positively to society.

The SDA Award of Excellence recognizes innovative achievements in textile and fiber arts, promoting the mission of the Surface Design Association (SDA). This prestigious award is presented to artists exhibiting exceptional work in current exhibitions, emphasizing creativity and excellence. Recipients receive a one-year premium digital membership in SDA, which includes various member benefits. By celebrating artistic accomplishments, the award aims to enhance awareness of the SDA's commitment to supporting textile and fiber artists and their contributions to the community.

LaVern Smith Scholarship

Scholarships awarded to members of a 4-H or a FFA chapter within Calhoun County. Applicants must be seniors in high school or enrolled in a technical school or college, and under the age of 19 at the time the application is submitted. GPA is not a determining factor.

The Project Lifesaver International Grant by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America aims to fund programs that prevent wandering and enhance public safety for individuals with dementia-related illnesses. This grant supports public safety agencies that are members of AFA and Project Lifesaver International, focusing on essential training, supplies, and community outreach. Grants are awarded biannually, promoting better care and safety for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

Marshall Bowling Council Smith/Dannenberg Scholarship

A scholarship awarded to an active, certified member of the Marshall Youth Bowling Association/United States Bowling Council (USBC) who plans to further his/her education in a college or vocational school. Applicants must be an amateur as defined by the USBC. Service in USBC state, local and league offices will be considered. Civic, curricular and co-curricular activities; grade point and hobbies outside of bowling may be determining factors. DO NOT submit a Marshall Community Foundation Scholarship Application.

The Anne & Irving Brodsky Innovation Grant, offered by the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, provides $25,000 to support innovative programs that enhance the lives of individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease and related conditions. This grant is exclusively available to AFA nonprofit member organizations, with funding directed towards essential program expenses such as staff training, administrative costs, and necessary supplies. The initiative aims to foster advancements in care and support for families dealing with Alzheimer's.

Kari Hamaker Performing Arts Scholarship

A scholarship awarded to a student in Marshall, Olivet or the surrounding area, during school or upon graduation, seeking a degree in Performing Arts or for additional enrichment opportunities in performing arts. Applicants must demonstrate financial need. GPA is not a qualifying factor; however, transcripts and test scores are required. Students who receive this scholarship are encouraged to apply for further support in subsequent years.

George Sherman Scholarship

Applicants must be pursuing a two- or four- year degree or advanced education and/or training in the skilled trades and show evidence of involvement in co or extra-curricular activities or volunteerism related to the applicant’s field of interest. Transcripts and scores are requested, but not necessarily a determining factor.

The PCC Rapid Response Grants provide support for cultural initiatives that aim to shape narratives during critical cultural moments. These grants prioritize projects that engage communities of color, immigrants, refugees, and other marginalized groups, focusing on intersectionality, gender justice, and social equity. Eligible projects include pop culture campaigns, research, and public spectacles that respond to urgent political and cultural events, aiming to reach mass audiences and disrupt harmful narratives.

The Mission Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington in 2007, supports graduating seniors from Chelan, Douglas, or Okanogan counties who plan to undertake mission trips to Latin America. This scholarship aims to inspire young individuals to engage in community service while gaining cultural insights. Eligible applicants must be juniors or seniors, ready to complete their mission within two years of receiving the award, providing a unique opportunity to make a positive impact abroad.

The Ogburn Family Scholarship, provided by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports high school seniors from Quincy, Wenatchee, or Eastmont High Schools. Eligible students should plan to pursue education or a medical field, such as nursing or radiology, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. Preference is given to those attending Wenatchee Valley College or Central Washington University's teaching program. This scholarship promotes educational advancement within the community.

The Okanogan Masonic Lodge #169, through the Community Foundation of NCW, has been providing scholarships to deserving Okanogan County students since 1998. This initiative honors the wishes of Herbert and Elizabeth Davis, ensuring their philanthropic legacy supports local youth. The dedicated Masons review applications and select recipients, embodying commitment to education and community development. Their efforts have made a significant impact on students' futures, reinforcing the values of charity and support within the community.

The Pateros Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of NCW, supports Pateros High School students in their pursuit of higher education. This fund encourages academic and financial growth for graduating seniors and previous graduates, including home-schooled students from the Pateros School District. Established in the 1990s, it emphasizes education as a key driver of community development. Renewal is available for prior recipients, allowing for a maximum of two awards.

The Bayer Fund: Food & Nutrition Grant supports high-quality programs that combat malnutrition and improve access to nutritious foods, particularly for underserved communities and families with young children. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government units. The fund prioritizes long-term behavioral change towards healthy eating and nutrition, with grants typically not exceeding 25% of an organization's operating budget. International requests start at $25,000, fostering sustainable food security and education initiatives.

The SETAC North America Student Meeting Attendance Grant supports student participation in annual meetings, emphasizing inclusivity and excellence. This program provides waived registration and stipends for costs such as travel and dependent care. Eligible students can apply during abstract submission from March to May, with grants available for each degree program. The initiative encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds, particularly those from indigenous communities and minority-serving institutions, enhancing representation within the environmental sciences.

The Kathy’s Kids Scholarship, established in honor of Kathy Smith, provides educational support for young women in the Longview area facing challenges. Administered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, this scholarship aims to empower graduating seniors to pursue their educational goals. With a focus on financial need, applicants must be from participating high schools and demonstrate resilience in overcoming adversity. Scholarships of $1,500 are available and may renew annually, emphasizing the foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities.

The John Stashonsky Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Muskingum County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from John Glenn High School, Cambridge High School, or Mid-East Career and Technology Center (Zanesville Campus) who are pursuing higher education. Applicants are required to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities and improve the quality of life in Muskingum County through philanthropy.

The Risk and Protective Factors of Family Health initiative invites research proposals to explore family health and resilience, addressing health disparities in minority communities. Key submission deadlines are set for various dates from February 2025 to February 2027. This program is supported by the National Institutes of Health, highlighting the importance of family well-being as a critical area for advancing health equity. Proposals should focus on interventions that improve family health outcomes.

The Charles and Mary Lou Heck Educational, Forest M. and Meryl C. Cale, and Violet and Ralph Hennessey Educational Scholarships, administered by the Muskingum County Community Foundation, support residents pursuing higher education. Established to honor community leaders, these scholarships target students maintaining a 'C' average or higher, including late bloomers and those from families not qualifying for financial aid. Preference is given to graduates of Muskingum County high schools, ensuring local talent is nurtured.