Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in New Jersey

Mission & Vision

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission:

We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Our Vision:

We envision a Greater Rochester region transformed by enduring philanthropy, where every person, neighborhood, and future generation can thrive.

Jennifer Grimes Lindley Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

The Jennifer Grimes Lindley Scholarship recognizes and awards young women residing in Monroe and Yates counties who intend to continue education beyond high school, preferably in the field of engineering.

Number and Size of Awards

Two awards of $1,000 each to both a Monroe County and a Yates County recipient, plus a four-year student membership to the American Association of University Women (AAUW). Award paid in one lump sum in the Fall.

Donor Information

This scholarship was established by the Lindley family in memory of their daughter, Jennifer Grimes Lindley. Jennifer was a very bright student who eventually obtained her electrical engineering degree in her mid-30s. This scholarship recognizes those women who choose to continue their education in the field of engineering and science.

The Bernice Carver Scholarship of Hope, established by the family of Don and Barbara Frey, honors the legacy of Bernice Carver, a dedicated educator. This scholarship supports Whitley County seniors from Columbia City, Churubusco, or Whitko High School who have a minimum 2.2 GPA and aspire to careers in nursing, teaching, or science. Emphasizing good citizenship and a quest for knowledge, the scholarship reflects Miss Carver's admirable character and commitment to education.

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.

Cynthia Chapman Memorial Scholarship

Cynthia Chapman was a renowned pianist who was dedicated to the pursuit of science and education. She devoted much of her life developing educational videos for Encyclopedia Britannica. This scholarship is in honor of her exceptional accomplishments and career.

The Cynthia Chapman Memorial Scholarship is designed for students who have a background in music (such as playing an instrument, choir, band, etc.) and who are pursuing a degree in a science related field. This scholarship is for graduating high school seniors from Northern Nevada, with a preference for those from Eureka County. This is a one-time award of up to $2,000.

Cathy Geerlings Indomitable Spirit Scholarship

Graduating senior or graduating early college student with substantial work history or record of volunteering who attends public, private, or home school in the primary service area of the Community Foundation; or a current college student with substantial work history or record of volunteering whose permanent address lies within the primary service area of the Community Foundation; or a currently employed worker from the greater Holland/Zeeland area, employed 20 or more hours per week, in human resources, manufacturing, skilled trades, semi-skilled trades, or other production-related areas with a greater Holland/Zeeland area company including temporary staffing agencies.

The AESEF Genelec Mike Chafee Audio Pioneering Scholarship supports exceptional women pursuing graduate studies in audio engineering. Named in honor of Michael Chafee, a significant figure in audio innovation, this scholarship aims to empower women in a traditionally male-dominated field. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $5,000 and are awarded based on academic merit and commitment to audio engineering. Payment is made directly to the student’s graduate school, facilitating a smoother educational journey.

The Health Equity Data Access Program (HEDAP) offers funding for six seats in the CMS Virtual Research Data Center, enabling researchers to access critical CMS data for minority health research. Focused on various health topics, HEDAP aims to tackle health disparities among underserved populations, including racial and ethnic minorities and individuals affected by poverty. The program encourages innovative research methods and intersectional approaches, enhancing researchers' capacity to utilize CMS data effectively while providing actionable insights for stakeholders.

The MSU Graduate Teaching Scholarships recognize the vital role graduate students play in undergraduate education by providing financial support for their teaching efforts. Eligible candidates must have a graduate teaching assistantship, complete professional development, and apply before the semester starts. Scholarships range from $250 to $1000, promoting excellence in teaching and enriching the educational experience at Montana State University.

The Jewish Women's Foundation of New Jersey invites organizations to apply for the Fall Grant - Impact Grants Cycle, aimed at supporting projects that empower women and girls in New Jersey. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for initiatives demonstrating significant impact, urgency, or covering specific expenses. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or have a fiscal agent with this status, focusing on the unique needs of their communities. Applications are due by September 3, 2025.

The OJJDP FY 2026 Multistate Mentoring Programs aims to provide crucial mentoring services to at-risk youth, helping them avoid delinquency and victimization. This funding opportunity emphasizes the importance of one-on-one, group, and peer mentoring approaches. The program aligns with the U.S. Department of Justice's commitment to public safety and juvenile justice reform, addressing the needs of vulnerable populations and fostering positive youth development.

The OJJDP FY 2026 Strengthening Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) program aims to enhance the technological investigative capacity of ICAC task forces nationwide. Through this funding opportunity, the program will support the development and refinement of investigative tools and methods to combat child sexual abuse material, exploitation, and trafficking. The deadline for application submission is November 5, 2026, at 8:59 p.m. ET, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these critical issues.

The Bertha Parker Cody Award, offered by the Society for American Archaeology, supports Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian women pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies in archaeology and museum studies. This scholarship fosters educational advancement and collaboration between archaeologists and Indigenous communities, promoting ethical practices and cultural preservation. Funded in part by the Autry Museum of the American West, it aims to empower diverse voices within the field of archaeology and is available annually.

The MCSF Career & Technical Education Scholarship supports children of Marines pursuing non-degree certificate programs. It offers financial assistance to eligible applicants based on need, helping cover tuition, fees, and associated educational costs. With a minimum GPA requirement of 2.00 and a family income cap of $123,000, this scholarship ensures that all qualifying students have access to vocational training at accredited institutions. Applications are accepted year-round, providing flexibility for students.

Who We Are

Our Mission

UNCF envisions a nation where all Americans have equal access to a college education that prepares them for rich intellectual lives, competitive and fulfilling careers, engaged citizenship and service to our nation.

UNCF’s mission is to build a robust and nationally-recognized pipeline of under-represented students who, because of UNCF support, become highly-qualified college graduates and to ensure that our network of member institutions is a respected model of best practice in moving students to and through college.

2026-2027 Lincoln Financial Scholars Program

The Lincoln Financial Scholars program provides college students with professional development and scholarship assistance to help prepare them for internships and early career opportunities

The Experience

Through engagement in live webinars and online learning management system, scholars will receive training in the following key areas to prepare for internship opportunities and early career opportunities

• Exploring the True Colors Personality Lens 
• Exploring Transferable Skills: Emotional Intelligence 
• Cultivation of Professional Skills: Networking - Branding - Managing Up 
• Financial Wellness

Each eligible student will be awarded a one-time, scholarship award of up to $3,000.

The State Biomonitoring Cooperative Agreement aims to enhance public health laboratories' ability to conduct biomonitoring and assess human exposure to environmental chemicals. This funding opportunity emphasizes community investigations, state-level studies, and emerging chemicals not covered in the National Exposure Report. By improving laboratory capacity and fostering collaboration, the initiative seeks to identify harmful exposures and evaluate intervention effectiveness over a three-year period.

About

Mission, Vision & Values

To enhance our community through philanthropy.

We aspire to co-create diverse, meaningful and innovative charitable giving that yields an exponential positive impact within local communities and beyond.

Masonic Lodge Scholarship

About the fund

These funds are focused on providing scholarships to students and historically underserved youth in Benton County, thereby encouraging them to complete their education at a public institution.

The Apraxia Kids Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) Clinical Research Grant focuses on funding high-quality research applicable to childhood apraxia of speech. With an award of up to $50,000, it supports studies addressing early diagnosis, treatment approaches, and the impact of CAS on literacy and phonological skills. Apraxia Kids encourages proposals that consider diverse populations and comorbid conditions, aiming to enhance understanding and outcomes for children with CAS.

The NIH Blueprint for Neuroscience Research Network aims to enhance foundational research on human consciousness, addressing critical biomedical issues such as coma and dementia. By fostering a collaborative framework among 14 NIH institutes, the initiative seeks to improve diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders through interdisciplinary approaches. Key objectives include detecting consciousness in minimally responsive patients, enhancing understanding of sleep disorders, and exploring new methodologies. This effort will ultimately strengthen U.S. leadership in neuroscience and improve patient outcomes.

The Charles E. Crow Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 1953, supports graduates of Big Pasture High School in Randlett, Oklahoma, by providing a one-year scholarship up to $5,000. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities for students pursuing college, community college, or trade school certifications. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.8. By investing in the potential of local youth, this fund contributes to building thriving communities and advancing equity in education.

The Craig Zadan Pathway for Equity in the Arts Grant aims to enhance high school theatre programs in underserved communities. By providing $10,000 grants, this initiative fosters collaboration between students and industry professionals, while promoting performances that address diverse perspectives. The grant encourages schools to select plays that spark important conversations, ensuring inclusivity and representation in the arts. Ultimately, it seeks to inspire students and open doors to future careers in theatre.

The Carter Creech Scholarship offers financial support up to $8,000 for graduating seniors of Troy Buchanan High School in Missouri who aim to pursue a four-year degree. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA, achieve an ACT score of 27 or higher, and rank in the top 10% of their class. This scholarship encourages academic excellence and allows recipients to reapply annually for up to $32,000 over four years, fostering educational opportunities in the community.

ONEOK's Scholarship Program provides financial support for dependents of ONEOK employees aiming for higher education. Annually, up to twelve scholarships are available: $5,000 per year for four years (max $20,000) or $2,500 per year for two years (max $5,000). Eligible applicants must be high school seniors or graduates with a minimum GPA of 2.5. The program encourages academic excellence and civic leadership, fostering the next generation of leaders from ONEOK families.

The Pabst Steinmetz Foundation Grant supports innovative projects at the intersection of arts, education, and wellness. It aims to empower organizations that address critical community issues and foster sustainable models for change, particularly in Florida. The foundation encourages collaboration and seeks initiatives that create a ripple effect, enhancing community capacity and promoting impactful solutions. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) entities in the U.S. focusing on community betterment through creative approaches.

The Graduate Student Scholarship: Student With a Disability Scholarship, offered by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation, supports graduate students with disabilities pursuing degrees in communication sciences and disorders. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in an accredited program. This scholarship aims to foster academic achievement and provide financial assistance for educational expenses. Applicants may also consider additional scholarship categories but can only receive one award. Up to 15 scholarships of $5,000 are available.

The AAUW Branch and State Affiliate Community Action Grants aim to empower AAUW branches and state organizations by providing up to $10,000 for innovative STEM programming targeted at girls in grades K-12. This initiative is designed to foster hands-on learning experiences, expand local impact, and showcase AAUW's commitment to gender equity in STEM. By collaborating with other organizations, AAUW seeks to build confidence and inspire the next generation of female STEM leaders.

The Lovisa Card Catlin Art Scholarship, administered by the Erie Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Erie County high schools pursuing further education in art, architecture, or industrial art. In 2023, over $800,000 was awarded to more than 500 students for post-secondary education. Applicants must submit up to six examples of their artwork in JPEG format along with a completed application. This scholarship fosters artistic talent and encourages educational advancement in creative fields.

The Comprehensive Housing Counseling (CHC) and Housing Counseling Training (HCT) NOFO (FY2026) aims to support HUD-approved housing counseling agencies. These agencies provide essential guidance to tenants and homeowners regarding property maintenance, financial management, and literacy. This initiative plays a crucial role in helping individuals secure sustainable homeownership or affordable rentals, while also serving as a safeguard against housing scams and discrimination, connecting clients to various housing resources.

The Kenneth Jernigan Scholarship, offered by the National Federation of the Blind, honors the legacy of Jacquilyn Billey, a dedicated advocate for the blind. With thirty merit-based scholarships of $10,000 each available, applicants must be legally blind, reside in the U.S., and plan to pursue full-time post-secondary education. Awards are based on academic excellence, community service, and leadership, with finalists attending the NFB National Convention in July for selection.