Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in New York

Cumberland Community Foundation ("CCF") manages more than 60 scholarship endowment funds created by local individuals, families, civic organizations, and corporations who want to provide a path to higher education for future generations. 

Each year, Cumberland Community Foundation announces more than $1,000,000 in college scholarships to students from southeastern North Carolina.

Fayetteville Firefighters Scholarship

Must be both an active uniform Fayetteville firefighter and planning to attend accredited college/university within 6 months.

Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi

The Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi manages 314 donor-established funds and has disbursed over $48 million to support more than 1,000 charitable organizations and activities recommended by its donors, as well as charitable programs established by the foundation. Established in 2002 with a generous grant from the Maddox Foundation, the Community Foundation is an independent 501(c)3 charitable organization. The Foundation serves Bolivar, Coahoma, DeSoto, Leflore, Marshall, Panola, Quitman, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tunica and Yalobusha counties. 

The Reese and Joelle Norris Service through Music Scholarship

The Community Foundation, CoroRio, and MidSouth Music Institute is pleased to offer a $500 college scholarship: The Reese and Joelle Norris Service through Music Scholarship. We are grateful to Reese and Joelle Norris for more than ten years of service to CoroRio and the MidSouth Music Institute. Together, they have nearly 50 years of teaching thousands of all ages throughout the MidSouth and across the country.

Starting in the Spring of 2024, the scholarship will be awarded each year to a student who is currently involved in CoroRio, plans to pursue a career related to music, and has demonstrated a passion for serving others through music, like Reese and Joelle. 

The Lawren H. Daltroy Preceptorship in Health Communication aims to enhance patient-clinician communication by providing a one-on-one learning experience for trainees and junior researchers. Funded by the Rheumatology Research Foundation, it offers up to $15,000 over one year for eligible candidates with no prior R01 funding. The program focuses on projects that improve understanding of effective communication in healthcare settings, addressing critical issues such as health literacy and shared decision-making.

Spencer County Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Spencer County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

The Community Foundation can help you...

• Make a difference where it matters
• Invest in the future of the community you love
• Create greater good together

Schmidt-Yeager Scholarship

Annual scholarship created by Phillip and Elaine Schmidt to facilitate adults continuing their college education.

Award Amount

• $1,470

The Howard Fellowships, administered by the George A. and Eliza Gardner Howard Foundation, support early mid-career artists and scholars with $40,000 awards for independent projects in selected fields. This unrestricted, non-residency fellowship encourages significant creative development and public visibility through exhibitions or publications. Applicants should demonstrate a promising program of work and must currently reside in the U.S. or its territories. Ten fellowships are awarded annually, promoting artistic and intellectual advancement.

This funding opportunity invites applications for investigator-initiated clinical trials focused on complementary and integrative health interventions delivered remotely or via mobile health technologies. The trials must be fully powered, with no in-person contact, and require justification for this approach. Preliminary data on feasibility and safety must be provided, alongside evidence of clinical benefit. A Plan for Enhancing Diverse Perspectives is mandatory for submission. Key deadlines range from February 2024 to June 2026.

The Innovation in Behavioral Health (IBH) Model (the “Model”) is an eight-year, voluntary service delivery and payment model promoting integrated care in behavioral health (BH) settings. The IBH Model will test the impact of a value-based payment (VBP) model aligned across Medicaid and Medicare that supports an integrated care delivery framework in specialty BH organizations and settings for adult Medicaid, Medicare, and dually eligible beneficiaries with moderate to severe mental health conditions and/or substance use disorders (SUDs).The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), through its Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation (Innovation Center), will select up to eight state Medicaid agencies (SMAs) to participate in the Model. Implementation will begin in January 2025 and end in December 2032. The Model will have an eight-year performance period, which will be comprised of a three-year Pre-Implementation Period along with a five-year Implementation Period. Up to $7.5 million dollars in cooperative agreement award funding will be available to each selected Recipient over the course of the eight years. 

The John S. Renner Memorial Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports LGBTQ+ individuals pursuing arts education in postsecondary institutions. This scholarship aims to empower students to achieve their educational and career aspirations, fostering an inclusive environment for all. Applications are open for high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students, providing a vital resource for those looking to make their dreams a reality. Join us in celebrating diversity and supporting the next generation of artists.

The Gronstrand Ernst Scholarship, managed by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports high school seniors and adult re-entry students with a minimum GPA of 3.5. Eligible applicants must be residents of San Luis Obispo County, attend a university or vocational program, and demonstrate financial need, with English as their second language. This scholarship aims to empower students to pursue their educational dreams and contribute positively to the community.

About Us

The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is a resource for local charitable giving. Created by and for the people of San Luis Obispo County, The Community Foundation is an enduring source of charitable funds to meet the changing needs and interests of the region. We envision San Luis Obispo County as an inclusive haven where everyone, regardless of background, feels free to fully participate. In collaboration with our community partners and donors, we seek to foster a safe, respectful environment with ample opportunity for all to reach their potential and contribute to the success of our community. We invite you to join us in celebrating diversity, making sure all of our neighbors feel seen, and free from dehumanizing rhetoric and violence, as we shape a future where all residents can flourish. 

2025-2026 Scholarship Applications

Big dreams start here! With support from generous individuals, families, and businesses, the Community Foundation offers scholarships that help San Luis Obispo County students reach new heights in their education and careers.

Gary Grossman Scholarship

The Gary Grossman Scholarship was established to provide scholarship support for promising LGBTQIA+ students to achieve their full academic and leadership potential.

The David B. Gianas Memorial Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, provides vital educational support for students with documented special needs. This scholarship aims to empower individuals who face unique challenges in achieving their educational aspirations due to financial constraints or a lack of encouragement. Open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students, it seeks to foster inclusivity and uplift the community by helping students reach their fullest potential.

The Burt W. and Virginia Polin FARM Bureau Scholarship, provided by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, aims to support students pursuing careers in agriculture. Open to high school seniors and undergraduates, this scholarship fosters educational advancement and community growth. The Foundation emphasizes inclusivity and provides resources to help students thrive. Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now being accepted, encouraging local students to reach their educational aspirations.

The ARS Sue Ann and John L. Weinberg Foundation Cystic Fibrosis Chronic Rhinosinusitis Grant offers $20,000 for one year to support emerging researchers in the study of cystic fibrosis-related chronic rhinosinusitis. Eligible applicants must be members of the American Rhinologic Society with no significant prior funding. The grant encourages collaboration with experienced CF researchers and requires proper acknowledgment in publications. It prioritizes innovative research projects and fosters career development in the field.

The Dean B. Albritton Memorial Scholarship, established by the Central Alabama Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Dean B. Albritton, emphasizing education as a path to empowerment. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from Autauga, Elmore, or Montgomery County, with a focus on minority students associated with New Walk of Life Church in Montgomery. Since its inception in 1987, the scholarship aims to uplift individuals and foster community development through educational opportunities.

The Butler County Scholarship, established by the Central Alabama Community Foundation, aims to support graduating African American seniors from Georgiana School, Greenville High School, and McKenzie School. Annually, one scholarship is awarded, with the amount determined each year. Recipients may renew the scholarship for up to three additional years, provided they submit a high school transcript and references during the application process. This initiative underscores a commitment to educational advancement in the community.

The Alfred I., Catharine J., and Eleanor G. Switzer Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, aims to support local youth residing in Los Osos, CA. This scholarship is open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students, providing them with essential financial assistance to pursue their educational goals. By fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, the foundation encourages students to achieve their dreams and contribute positively to their community.

About Us

The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is a resource for local charitable giving. Created by and for the people of San Luis Obispo County, The Community Foundation is an enduring source of charitable funds to meet the changing needs and interests of the region. We envision San Luis Obispo County as an inclusive haven where everyone, regardless of background, feels free to fully participate. In collaboration with our community partners and donors, we seek to foster a safe, respectful environment with ample opportunity for all to reach their potential and contribute to the success of our community. We invite you to join us in celebrating diversity, making sure all of our neighbors feel seen, and free from dehumanizing rhetoric and violence, as we shape a future where all residents can flourish. 

2025-2026 Scholarship Applications

Big dreams start here! With support from generous individuals, families, and businesses, the Community Foundation offers scholarships that help San Luis Obispo County students reach new heights in their education and careers.

Alan D. Stephenson Scholarship

The Alan D. Stephenson Scholarship was established to support promising LGBTQIA+ students to achieve their academic potential.

The Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) funding opportunity aims to enhance safety on roads for all users by supporting planning, infrastructure, and operational initiatives. For fiscal year 2026, funds will be awarded competitively to projects that prevent fatalities and serious injuries among pedestrians, bicyclists, public transportation users, motorists, and commercial vehicle operators. This initiative underscores the commitment to creating safer road environments.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to establish a fund with us. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Midland Empire Safety Association Scholarship

This fund was established by the Midland Empire Safety Association to provide academic scholarships to students pursuing a degree in occupational safety and/or health, industrial hygiene, environmental safety, industrial fire prevention, risk management and occupational medicine.

Guidelines:

Scholarship recipient is chosen by The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri’s Finance/Grant Committee. Scholarships will be awarded on a one-time basis and disbursed in August.

Amount:

Minimum of $500.00 to be paid at the start of the Fall semester.

The Systems-Based Approaches to Improve Patient Safety program aims to enhance patient safety by prioritizing healthcare worker safety and well-being. By focusing on systemic improvements, this initiative seeks to create a safer healthcare environment, recognizing that worker safety is integral to patient safety. The funding opportunity encourages innovative proposals that bring new insights from healthcare professionals, ultimately supporting AHRQ's mission to strengthen the patient safety movement.

The NEI Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Cooperative Agreement aims to support small businesses in conducting early-stage clinical trials that pose greater than minimal risk. The program focuses on Phase I and II trials designed to evaluate interventions for vision disorders. Key deadlines for applications include January 30, 2024, and May 24, 2024, among others. Applicants are encouraged to consult with NEI staff prior to submission to ensure alignment with funding opportunities.

About Us

Who We Are

The National Federation of the Blind is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded in 1940 and currently headquartered in Baltimore, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.

What We Do

Through our network of blind members, we coordinate many programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind Americans, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates a future full of opportunities.

What We Believe

We are the only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power to transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people—from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

Scholarship Program

Thanks to our generous partners, there are thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships currently available. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. 

National Federation of the Blind Scholarships

All other scholarships proudly carry the name National Federation of the Blind. Our members acknowledge academic excellence and leadership in making these awards.

About Us

Who We Are

The National Federation of the Blind is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded in 1940 and currently headquartered in Baltimore, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.

What We Do

Through our network of blind members, we coordinate many programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind Americans, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates a future full of opportunities.

What We Believe

We are the only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power to transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people—from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

Scholarship Program

Thanks to our generous partners, there are thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships currently available. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. 

Kurzweil Foundation and Ray Kurzweil

The Kurzweil Foundation and Ray Kurzweil contribute to each recipient’s award, and provide each finalist with a commemorative plaque in both print and Braille. Ray Kurzweil is a long-time friend of the Federation and deserves our special recognition.

About Us

Who We Are

The National Federation of the Blind is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded in 1940 and currently headquartered in Baltimore, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.

What We Do

Through our network of blind members, we coordinate many programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind Americans, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates a future full of opportunities.

What We Believe

We are the only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power to transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people—from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

Scholarship Program

Thanks to our generous partners, there are thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships currently available. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. 

Jesse and Hertha Adams Charitable Trust Scholarship

The Jesse and Hertha Adams Trust Scholarship is made available for those individuals who wish to achieve their dreams. Success is acknowledged through hard work and the effort you put forth. And the Jesse and Hertha Adams Scholarship acknowledges both. In addition to funding this named scholarship, the trust generously contributes to our program travel expenditures for our winners and many of our National Federation of the Blind other scholarships.

About Us

Who We Are

The National Federation of the Blind is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded in 1940 and currently headquartered in Baltimore, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.

What We Do

Through our network of blind members, we coordinate many programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind Americans, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates a future full of opportunities.

What We Believe

We are the only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power to transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people—from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

Scholarship Program

Thanks to our generous partners, there are thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships currently available. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. 

Edith R. and Alvin J. Domroe Foundation Scholarships

The Foundation supports college scholarships and has funded two scholarships to encourage academic excellence.

About Us

Who We Are

The National Federation of the Blind is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded in 1940 and currently headquartered in Baltimore, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.

What We Do

Through our network of blind members, we coordinate many programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind Americans, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates a future full of opportunities.

What We Believe

We are the only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power to transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people—from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

Scholarship Program

Thanks to our generous partners, there are thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships currently available. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. 

Charles and Betty Allen Scholarship

The Charles and Betty Allen Scholarship, funded by Charles and Betty before their passing, is a reflection of their commitment to education. Charlie, who was extremely successful, left school at an early age to care for his family, but retained a strong belief in higher education.

About Us

Who We Are

The National Federation of the Blind is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded in 1940 and currently headquartered in Baltimore, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.

What We Do

Through our network of blind members, we coordinate many programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind Americans, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates a future full of opportunities.

What We Believe

We are the only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power to transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people—from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

Scholarship Program

Thanks to our generous partners, there are thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships currently available. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. 

E. U. and Gene Parker Scholarship

The E. U. and Gene Parker Scholarship honors two longtime leaders of the National Federation of the Blind whose participation stood for strong principles and strong support of the Federation's work.