Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in New York

The Shirley Bradway Serafin Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides financial support to residents of Northeastern Connecticut pursuing nursing studies. Since 1983, over $11.9 million in scholarships have been awarded to help students achieve their educational goals. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and can receive up to $5,000 over four years, with awards disbursed to colleges by August 1.

The William Emberton Scholarship, established in memory of Bill Emberton, awards $1,000 to students in Eastern Connecticut who demonstrate a strong interest in literature and poetry. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has distributed over $11.9 million in scholarships. This scholarship honors Bill's legacy as a passionate literary advocate and civic volunteer, supporting local students in their educational pursuits and fostering a love for literature.

The Viola A. and Henry W. Turner Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports high school seniors from Southeastern CT pursuing a four-year degree, particularly in education. Since 1983, over $11.9 million in scholarships have been awarded. The scholarship provides approximately $500, with awards sent to colleges by August 1, and is primarily need-based.

Armstrong County Community Foundation (The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania)

In 1997 Merchants National Bank, an Armstrong County community bank, marked its 100th anniversary. The centennial celebration included a unique expression of gratitude to the community in the form of $100,000 to be used as a seed fund to initiate a community foundation for Armstrong County. The bank challenged the community to keep the principal balance of the endowed funds intact and spend only a portion of the interest earnings to ensure a lasting legacy.

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Klingensmith Scholarship

In October of 1983, the Trustees and various Klingensmith Trusts created a scholarship to further the higher education of working high school students residing in Ford City who chose to study in the field of pharmacy. Trustees funded the scholarship with $40,000, designated it as "The Klingensmith Fund," and authorized representatives of the Armstrong School District to invest and reinvest said principal sum and use the income to benefit any eligible student selected by the School District Representatives.

The Trustees further directed that in February of 2007, the School District was to use the Klingensmith Fund's principal and income in its sole discretion to further the interests of the "high school in Ford City" and giving adequate consideration to pharmacological education.

The Klingensmith Trusts that established the Klingensmith Fund no longer existed; and there no longer being a high school in Ford City, the CEO of Klingensmith Drug Stores, David J. Cippel, requested that the School District transfer the balance of the Klingensmith Fund to The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania (the Armstrong County Community Foundation), a public nonprofit corporation, for the purpose of establishing student scholarships.

The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania (the Armstrong County Community Foundation) willingly accepted. The Armstrong School District transferred the remaining principal and income of the Klingensmith Fund to The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania (the Armstrong County Community Foundation) for the purpose of establishing college scholarships.

Armstrong County Community Foundation (The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania)

In 1997 Merchants National Bank, an Armstrong County community bank, marked its 100th anniversary. The centennial celebration included a unique expression of gratitude to the community in the form of $100,000 to be used as a seed fund to initiate a community foundation for Armstrong County. The bank challenged the community to keep the principal balance of the endowed funds intact and spend only a portion of the interest earnings to ensure a lasting legacy.

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Stephen L. Heffner Memorial Scholarship

Stephen Heffner gave so much of his life to others. His passion for educating the youth of our community will have a lasting impact on countless lives. This scholarship was created to continue providing a positive impact on students’ lives. 

The JFNY Grant for Japanese Studies provides up to $5,000 for U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status to promote Japanese Studies. This grant supports conferences, presentations, and research that enhances understanding of Japan. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for online projects, while others must be submitted three months prior to the project start date. Preference is given to projects that secure additional funding from other sources.

The American Academy of Optometry Foundation is inviting applications for the 2025-26 Allison Summers Pediatric Pilot Grant. This $10,000 grant aims to support mid-career optometrists in conducting pilot research that fosters new collaborations and innovative projects in pediatric optometry. Eligible candidates must be Fellows of the Academy and demonstrate a commitment to advancing pediatric research. The deadline for submitting the Letter of Intent is August 4, 2025.

The Individual Artist Grants support the professional growth of artists through funding for projects that can range from $1,000 to $5,000. Applicants are encouraged to engage the community through public programs like exhibitions or performances. The funding prioritizes artistic merit, community interaction, and the feasibility of projects. The application deadline for pre-proposals is November 1, with final applications due on November 21, 2025.

The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) is set to release a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) focused on the ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of genomics. This initiative aims to explore how genomics can enhance health and well-being while addressing its broader societal impacts. The NHGRI encourages applications from diverse academic disciplines to promote innovative and replicable research approaches that effectively analyze the consequences of genomic advancements.

The Dakota Alliance Soccer Club Student Athlete Scholarship, managed by the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation, offers financial support to graduating seniors from Sioux Falls high schools. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and participate in soccer. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities by supplementing existing financial aid, making it easier for students to pursue their dreams of higher education.

Overview

GEAR is a small grant offered by East Coast Zoological Foundation (ECZF). This grant is intended to be a catalyst for growth and development of conservation-based organizations by supporting operational costs essential for in-situ fieldwork. GEAR addresses the financial challenges organizations face when their needs fall outside large-scale project-based funding.

We aim to respond to applicants within 4 weeks of receiving the application. Funding requests up to $1,000 are anticipated, though larger requests may be considered or partially funded. Recipients must use the funds within 12 months and submit a brief report by the end of that period.

Proposals should fall within one of the three categories defined below:

• Field equipment: supplies required to monitor, survey, and assess species and habitats including, but not limited to, technology, software, tools, clothing, PPE and transport.
• Outreach: supplies needed for public engagement through schools, awareness campaigns, and activities including, but not limited to, pamphlets, books, stickers, digital content creation and signage.
• Professional development: training needed for organizational growth and greater capacity. Opportunities may include, but are not limited to, symposiums, workshops, conferences and training. Additional associated costs such as travel and housing can be included and will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

The Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Dental Assistant Scholarships, offered by the Pacific Dental Services Foundation, provide financial aid of up to $5,000 for eligible dental assistant students. Applicants must be over 18, U.S. citizens or legal residents, and enrolled in a qualifying program. The scholarship emphasizes mentorship and training, supporting the next generation of dental assistants. Awards are based on financial need and application quality, with multiple cycles each year to support aspiring professionals.

The AHA Career Development Award supports early-career healthcare professionals to explore innovative research questions and pilot studies. With a budget of $77,000 per year, this award aims to enhance research skills, provide mentorship, and prepare awardees for successful scientific careers. Eligible applicants must hold a doctoral degree and commit at least 10% effort to the award. The program emphasizes mentorship from experienced investigators, ensuring a structured path towards independence in research.

The Cogley-Buffington Certified Property and Casualty Underwriters Fund offers scholarships managed by the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation, which awards over $500,000 annually to local students. Eligible applicants are graduating seniors from South Dakota, southwest Minnesota, or northwest Iowa, with a GPA of 3.5 or higher, involvement in extracurriculars, and a demonstrated financial need. Scholarships can be used for tuition and course-related expenses, but not for-profit institutions.

The St. Mary Catholic Community School Scholarship, established in 1989 by Dr. John Birdzell and the Crown Point Rotary, aims to enrich the quality of life in South Lake County. This non-renewable scholarship is available to graduating high school seniors who are alumni of St. Mary's Catholic Community School and actively involved in religious activities. Award recipients are invited to a special Scholarship Awards Night on May 7, 2026.

The Tri Kappa Scholarship, established by the Crown Point Community Foundation, aims to enrich the quality of life in South Lake County by providing financial assistance to graduating high school seniors who are residents of Crown Point, IN, and involved in community service. This non-renewable scholarship invites awardees to a special Scholarship Awards Night on May 7, 2026, at the Halls of St. George.

The Bill Barlow "Second Chance" Scholarship, managed by the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from alternative schools or local high schools and GED earners aiming for higher education. The scholarship offers financial assistance for tuition and related expenses, with a GPA requirement of 3.0 for public/private high school graduates. It encourages applicants to pursue their educational dreams without the burden of financial constraints, helping them take significant steps toward their futures.

The Walter J. Bernacki Memorial Scholarship, established by the Crown Point Community Foundation, aims to support graduating high school seniors from Lake Central, Portage, or Crown Point High Schools. Eligible applicants must be senior football players with a minimum GPA of 3.25 and are encouraged to have work experience during high school. This non-renewable scholarship promotes community engagement and academic achievement, culminating in an awards ceremony on May 7, 2026.

The Herman and LaVerne Griller Scholarship, managed by the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation, offers scholarships to students in the Sioux Falls area. Eligible applicants must plan to attend an accredited four-year institution, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship is part of a larger program providing over $500,000 annually to local students pursuing higher education. It aims to support students in achieving their academic dreams.

The Jonathan and Barbara Silver Foundation offers a $20,000 grant for writers focusing on sculpture, encouraging diverse voices in this field. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, or hold an O-1 visa, and have published work within the last five years. The grant aims to support fresh perspectives on the history and aesthetics of sculpture, promoting artistic growth and innovation. Applications are limited to one submission per individual, ensuring a fair opportunity for all.

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

Three Oaks Scholarship Fund

For current year graduating seniors or non-traditional students who reside within the boundaries of the Burgettstown School District, Fort Cherry School District, or Avella Area School District and who are pursuing post-secondary education at an accredited trade or technical school. 

The Crown Point Youth Baseball Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, supports graduating high school students from Crown Point who have a minimum GPA of 2.75 and have participated in Crown Point Cal Ripken Baseball for at least three years. This scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to enhance educational opportunities for local youth, fostering community engagement and growth through sports participation and academic achievement.

The Crown Point Community Foundation Scholarships support graduating high school seniors, college students, and adult learners from Crown Point, Winfield, Cedar Lake, or Lowell. With over 80 scholarship funds established by local donors, the foundation ensures financial assistance is tailored to community needs. Eligible applicants may attend colleges, universities, or vocational schools, but the scholarships are non-renewable. This initiative enriches the quality of life in South Lake County by maximizing charitable giving.

The Institutional Award for Undergraduate Student Training, offered by the American Heart Association, supports qualified research institutions in providing meaningful research experiences for undergraduate students. This three-year award enables institutions to apply for funding for two to five students annually, promoting diversity in science and enhancing mentorship opportunities. Institutions are encouraged to develop robust recruitment plans and ensure effective support for participants, while adhering to strict budget guidelines and reporting requirements.

The Charles and Marjorie Quickle Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, supports South Lake County residents pursuing degrees in divinity, theology, or religious ministry. This scholarship is open to graduating high school seniors, college students, and adult learners, with the ability to reapply annually. It aims to enhance educational opportunities while fostering community growth and engagement.

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

Carol L. Berthold Scholarship Fund for Dance

For a current year graduating senior who is pursuing a degree in dance at an accredited post-secondary educational institution and demonstrates both financial need and academic excellence. The award is renewable annually, provided the recipient remains enrolled in the dance program and in good academic standing (as defined by the institution).

Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County 

The mission of the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County is to enhance the quality of life for all residents of our community by fostering philanthropy and stewarding charitable resources. We strive to identify and address the most pressing needs in our area, and to support innovative solutions that create positive, sustainable change. Through partnerships with donors, nonprofits, and other community leaders, we seek to build a thriving, inclusive, and resilient community that provides opportunities for all to succeed.

Angelica G. Muns Nursing Scholarship

The Community Foundation for Ocala Marion County is pleased to administer the Angelica G. Muns Nursing Scholarship.

Mrs. Muns, a United States Airforce Lt. Colonel, was a registered nurse who served during World War II. Her love of her service and her profession led to her desire to establish a nursing scholarship to ensure that those wanting to excel in the field of nursing had the opportunity to attend school to become an RN or BSN.

Mrs. Muns and her husband were provided excellent healthcare in Marion County and her scholarship is established for those students who plan on staying in Marion County and working at a Marion County acute healthcare facility.

Recipients must maintain a 3.0 GPA through the duration of nursing school.