Best Grants for New Nonprofits in New Jersey

The Teiger Foundation Single Project Grant supports innovative visual arts projects at non-profit exhibition spaces with annual budgets exceeding $3 million. Focused on curatorial practices, the grant encourages experimentation and creativity, aiming to drive positive structural change in contemporary art. Eligible expenses include artist fees, publication costs, and coalition-building efforts. The next Call for Proposals opens in Fall 2026, with funding of up to $150,000 available for selected projects.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Shelley Speet-Mills Creative Arts Scholarship

• Graduating senior or graduating early college student who attends public, private, or home school in the primary service area of the Community Foundation
• Enrolling at an accredited post-secondary school within the United States
• Financial need (must submit the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)
• GPA of 3.0 or greater
• Planning to pursue a career in the arts
• Recommended by applicant’s high school art teacher
• This scholarship is potentially renewable and supports one student at a time. 

In 2025, the Community Foundation of Madison & Jefferson County awarded over $233,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors of the county’s public and private high schools. Nearly 50 different students earned money toward their college costs. Scholarships are available for a variety of applicants. Some are specific to schools, majors, need, or interests.

CFMJC scholarships may be used for tuition and related expenses like fees and required equipment at accredited colleges and universities. Room and board are not covered.

Terry & Wanda Wood Memorial Scholarship

Criteria evaluated:

• Work ethic and ambition, desire to pursue a trade, and financial need

Required materials: 

• Essay of up to 250 words describing the applicant’s career path plans, 
• 2 letters of recommendation from teachers and/or counselors, and 3) FAFSA SAI PDF upload

Scholarship amount:

• $7,500 | 1 scholarship

ASPCApro.org provides tools and resources for animal welfare professionals, veterinary personnel and volunteers. We take a progressive approach to helping the country's at-risk animals, promoting cutting edge research to advance the field.

ASPCA The Rescue Effect Campaign Grants

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) is offering up to $2 million in grants to support adoption at shelters and rescues during the 2026 “The Rescue Effect”, a nationwide campaign that highlights the positive chain of events that occurs when people adopt, foster, volunteer, advocate and donate.

The Rescue Effect will run through the months of August, September, and October 2026, during which grantees must offer a minimum of two (2) fee-waived adoption days/events each month. 

Restrictions and Parameters

Grant funds may be used for any of the following:

• make-ready costs for cats/dogs available for adoption during the Campaign months covered by the grant term (e.g., s/n surgery, microchips, vaccinations, testing, dewormer, flea-tick treatment, heartworm preventative, bloodwork)
• marketing/advertising costs (e.g., adoption promotions, volunteer/foster recruitment)
• waived adoption fees for adoptions occurring during the Campaign months covered by the grant term
• foster program expansion/ramp up
• operating costs related to supporting participation in The Rescue Effect campaign

The Gerber Foundation provides research grants focused on pediatric nutrition, aiming to enhance the health and well-being of infants and young children. Key areas of interest include applied research on nutritional issues, benefits of specific nutrients, and innovative treatment regimens. The foundation prioritizes projects that promise significant advancements in health outcomes for children from birth to age three, ensuring that grant dollars effectively address critical development challenges.

The Montana Circle K - Key Club Renewal Scholarship Program, supported by the Kiwanis Foundation of Montana, recognizes and aids Circle K members who have previously earned a scholarship and excelled academically in college. This program emphasizes the importance of leadership, community service, and continued academic achievement, providing essential financial assistance to deserving students who contribute positively to their communities.

The Communities Outreach Programme by the Islamic Development Bank aims to enhance the socio-economic development of Muslim minority communities in non-member countries. Established in 1981, it focuses on education, health, and capacity building to empower these communities. The programme supports initiatives that foster entrepreneurship, women's empowerment, and youth development, ensuring inclusive growth. By addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, it strives to improve living conditions and promote productivity, ultimately contributing to sustainable development in diverse regions.

Community Foundation of New Jersey

Over our 46-year history, the Community Foundation of New Jersey has collaborated with individuals, families, organizations, and businesses to design charitable funds and implement the philanthropic solutions they want to see in their communities. We leverage $1.17 billion in assets and 1,200 funds to help our partners think boldly and creatively about ways to give.

Scholarship Fund Overview

Beyond a shared commitment to educational opportunity, families establish scholarship funds with a variety of goals and purposes in mind. They may offer traditional scholarships or customize fund awards for alternative scholarships.

Currently, CFNJ administers more than 135 scholarship funds. Our scholarship opportunities run the gamut, from those exclusive to a local high school or geographic region to those supporting specific majors or career pursuits. Last year, we awarded over $2 million in scholarship assistance to 271 scholars.

Applicants may be evaluated on academic performance; extracurricular activities; community involvement; paid or unpaid work; and a statement of their personal aspirations, educational goals, and demonstrated unmet financial need in our scholarship review process.

Elsie E. and Joseph W. Beck Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior from Christian Brothers Academy (Holmdel), Seton Hall Prep (West Orange), Marymount School (NYC), St. Benedict's Prep (Newark), or Saint Vincent Academy (Newark). The award is based on merit and unmet need.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Peter Eisen Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior who has experienced the loss of a biological parent before the age of 18. Students must have achieved a cumulative 3.0 GPA or better. Applicants will be evaluated on academic performance, extracurricular activities, community service, work (paid or unpaid), and unmet financial need

Battle Creek Community Foundation

Our Mission: The Battle Creek Community Foundation connects people, ideas, and resources to expand opportunity and create lasting community benefit for today and tomorrow.

Scholarships

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Aaron W. Howard Scholarship Fund

The Aaron W. Howard Scholarship Fund was established by the parents, family and friends of Aaron Howard. Pfc. Howard died in February 1991 while serving in the U.S. Army in the Persian Gulf War. He was a 1989 Lakeview High School graduate. There are no restrictions as to college to be attended or curriculum to be followed. To qualify, an applicant must be in need of financial assistance and must have demonstrated potential to succeed in the college curriculum to be pursued. Factors considered, in addition to financial need are character and citizenship, industry and effort and ability as indicated by test data and grades received to date in high school.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Kids In Business Merit Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to individuals who are or have been associated with the Kids In Business program (Newark) who wish to further their education at an accredited educational institution.

The William W. and Beverly I. Sutton Scholarship, provided by the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, aims to empower Muskegon County residents to achieve their educational dreams. This scholarship is available to high school seniors, current college students, and adult learners. With over $1 million in scholarships awarded annually, it reflects the Foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities and community growth, ensuring that the legacy of Bill and Beverly Sutton continues to inspire future generations.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Keith Hightower Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a college-bound, graduating high school senior from Warren, Morris, Sussex, or Somerset counties. Applicants must have participated in a science or math competition or in independent scientific research during high school. 

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

West Shore Cardiology Consultants, P.C. Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of West Shore Cardiology Consultants, P.C., who established the West Shore Cardiology Consultants, P. C. Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. The five partners, Dr. Carl Gebuhr, Dr. Ralph Ryan, Dr. Mark Meengs, Dr. John Skallerup, and Dr. Gregory Bernath, felt they "...wanted to give something back to the community," and therefore chose a scholarship fund because of a strong commitment to education and its impact on an individual's success. Awards are for Muskegon County students with merit and financial need.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

J. Oscar and Susan Florence Hunt Scholarship

This scholarship will be awarded to a college-bound, graduating senior from Gloucester or Salem counties. Preference is given to the residents of Swedesboro, Auburn, Pedricktown, and Penns Grove, in the order of priority stated. Scholarships will be awarded based on need and merit.

The Mobile County Education Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of South Alabama, provides scholarships to Mobile County School students with a minimum GPA of 3.5 and financial need. This initiative supports students pursuing professional certificates, undergraduate, and graduate degrees, ensuring that local talent can thrive. The scholarship rotates among Mobile County Public High Schools, empowering students to achieve their educational goals and contribute positively to the community.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

John "Jack" and Jo Schils Scholarship Fund

The John "Jack" and Jo Schils Scholarship Fund was established by the Schils family in 2020 as a memorial tribute to John "Jack" Schils, a multi-sports coach, athletic director, teacher, principal, father, grandfather, husband and friend to many. This fund supports students from the Battle Creek Public Schools District where Jack was employed from 1958 until his retirement in 1986.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Harry H. Loudenslager Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a college-bound, male graduating high school senior who is a resident of Camden, Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland, or Cape May counties. Scholarships are based on need and merit.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Lillian A. Jones Scholarship Fund

This fund was established in memory of Lillian A. Jones to support academic scholarships for graduate students who are Calhoun County residents. "Often times students finish their undergraduate degree and are in debt or just don't have the funds to continue on to higher degrees," said Lillian speaking about her fund, "There is a real need for these students too."

The Make a SPLASH! Grant Contest, co-hosted by Inside Edge Safety Surfaces, offers two all-expenses-paid awards for Life Floor safety surfaces, aimed at enhancing community splash pads. The Need-Based Award targets municipalities and non-profits demonstrating financial need, with design options including planks, bubbles, and geometric shapes. Grant values range from $50,000 to $65,000, depending on project size, ensuring safety and accessibility for all users.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Otto A. Huth Scholarship Fund

Aging out of foster care or child welfare custody in Nevada?

The Otto A. Huth Scholarship Fund is established to provide support for youth who are about to age out of foster care or have already aged out of foster care in the state of Nevada who are seeking support for post-high school education (university, community college, business school, and trade school) at institutions located within the United States. Applicants must apply before their 21st birthday.

Applicants may apply for a scholarship for a maximum of 5 years for up to $40,000 in total. Annual scholarship awards are not to exceed $10,000. Scholarship awards may cover tuition, on-campus room & board, books, student health insurance, on-campus meal plans, and other education-related expenses.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Nico Goon Compassionate Scholar Award

The Nico Goon Compassionate Scholar Award is designed to support graduating high school seniors from Northern Nevada who are planning to attend a 4-year university to complete their degree. One scholarship of $2,500 will be awarded each year to a student who the committee feels exemplifies the qualities that Nico possessed. Consciously, Nico had a love for learning and pursuit of knowledge that was inspiring to his classmates and teachers. Subconsciously, Nico walked through life with a kindness and compassion that impacted the lives of others. Together, these qualities can have a lasting impact on the world around you. This is a one-time award. 

About AWS

We Move Welding Forward

Founded in 1919, the American Welding Society is a nonprofit organization with a global mission: to advance the science, technology, and application of welding and allied joining and cutting processes worldwide, including brazing, soldering, and thermal spraying.

By fostering knowledge, embracing change, and providing real-world opportunities through scholarships, fellowships, and workforce development, AWS provides the tools to help members succeed—and to inspire future generations of welding professionals.

Section and District Named Scholarships

Many AWS Sections offer scholarships funded by local members, companies, and donors. These scholarships are designated for students within each section and range from $1,000 to $3,000+.

The AWS District Scholarships, offered by the American Welding Society, provide financial support for students pursuing welder training in certificate programs. Annually, up to 800 scholarships worth $1,000 each are available for those attending accredited trade schools or community colleges. Eligible applicants must reside within AWS District boundaries and plan to attend a qualifying institution. Funds can cover tuition, fees, and necessary supplies, promoting growth in the welding profession.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Harry & Helen Davidson Family Scholarship Fund

The Davidson Family Scholarship was established to honor the commitment to education and service to the Battle Creek community of Harry and Helen Davidson. Harry, who served as superintendent of the Battle Creek Public Schools for a number of years, who upon his retirement from the education field, became the first executive director of the Battle Creek Community Foundation. Much of Harry and Helen's work in this community can be exemplified today through development of our fine educational system, the growth of our Community Foundation, and a strong community value for the education of our young people.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Gordon Lymbery Scholarship

Candidates for the Gordon Lymbery, PhD Memorial Scholarship must have graduated from a Northern Nevada high school, or received a GED, and must be seeking an Associate’s, Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.

Candidates for the Gordon Lymbery, PhD Memorial Scholarship must have graduated from a Northern Nevada high school, or received a GED, and must be seeking an Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, or Master’s degree. Awards for up to $1,000 are available for graduates of any Northern Nevada high school. Please see the Lymbery Certification Scholarship if you are seeking a certificate. This is a one-time award but has the potential to be renewed with reapplication.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Caesars Nevada Team Member Scholarship

This year, Caesars Entertainment is partnering with Phil and Jennifer Satre to match the scholarship funding.

Paid work, internships, and volunteerism will be a weighted selection tool used by the committee. This is a one-time award; awards may be single- or multi-year.