Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in New York

The Coco Gauff Tennis Scholarship

The Coco Gauff Tennis Scholarship will provide a need-based scholarship of up to $8,500 to eligible HBCU student-athletes competing on their intercollegiate tennis teams. Awards will be issued in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Early Career Talent Development General Application

The UNCF Student Professional Development Programs (SPDP) Department works closely with some of the nation’s leading corporations and foundations to shape and execute internship programs, including both stand-alone internship programs and internship-and-scholarship programs

The UNCF Student Professional Development Programs (SPDP) Department works closely with some of the nation’s leading corporations and foundations to shape and execute internship programs, including both stand-alone internship programs and internship-and-scholarship programs with two goals – 

• To help companies build a more diverse workforce; 
• To provide diverse students with the preparation they need to succeed in college, familiarize themselves with professional career paths, and prepare to be competitive candidates for internships and future employers after graduation.

UNCF’s SPDP partners include The Walt Disney Company, Toyota, Papa Johns, United Health Foundation, Wells Fargo, and the Walton Family Foundation. We currently serve over 1500 students annually through internship, leadership, and professional development services.

The UNCF Student Professional Development Programs (SPDP) offer career readiness, success coaching, and paid summer and semester internships to college students. Students participating in SPDP will be exposed to career pathways and opportunities and have access to leadership and personal development training. 

SPDP students will:

• Prepare to navigate from college to early-stage careers
• Enhance professional experiences through meaningful internships
• Develop stronger project management skills
• Improve networking and communication skills
• Strengthen interviewing techniques 

Currently, the SPDP is sourcing candidates to fill for summer 2026 internships!! The Early Career Talent Development General Application is used to establish an applicant pool of potentially eligible students for these ongoing internship/student professional development opportunities that are published/unpublished. Internship or professional development opportunities using the Early Career Talent Development General Application, are restricted to students who are enrolled full time at an accredited institution within the U.S. during the 2025-2026 academic year. 

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Junior League of Columbia Scholarship ($3,000)

The Junior League of Columbia created this non-renewable scholarship to assist students who attended one of the elementary schools located in Richland School District One in Columbia, SC. 

The AGA: Caroline Craig Augustyn & Damian Augustyn Award in Digestive Cancer offers $40,000 for one year to early career investigators holding a career development award focused on digestive cancer research. This grant aims to support innovative studies in pathogenesis, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Applicants must provide evidence of their current awards, a recommendation letter, and demonstrate how the AGA funding will facilitate their transition to independence in research.

Mission

The Mission of the Muskingum County Community Foundation is to improve quality of life in the community by nurturing opportunities and serving needs through collaboration and philanthropy.

Vision

The Envisioned Future of the Muskingum County Community Foundation is that Muskingum County’s quality of life attracts organizations and people to pursue their dreams and practice their passions.

A. Porter Spirit of ZHS Fund

A long time teacher at Zanesville High School. As a new teacher ZHS embraced her and she embraced the Blue Devils. Annette Porter is a first generation college graduate from a single parent home. While her parents supported her decision to go to college, it was necessary to incur personal debt which was and is common. This scholarship is available to help those students who may need a little financial help to take the first step toward college, and also make the collegiate experience less burdensome.

Becoming a Blue Devil was a process. Annette had a lot of help along the way, from Principals, Asst Principals, teaching peers, friends and family, so in an effort to pay it forward she has created this scholarship. “ Everyone of my students had potential, the most difficult thing was to convince them to work toward achieving it”. This scholarship will be awarded to a Blue Devil, not necessarily the most “spirited” but the Best Blue Devil who demonstrated all of the qualities that make up a Blue Devil.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Dr. William and Margaret Morris Academic, Athletic, & Service Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

The Brees Dream Foundation Grant aims to enhance the lives of cancer patients while providing essential care, education, and opportunities for children and families in need. With the support of generous donors and partners, the Foundation is dedicated to advancing cancer research and offering vital resources to those facing challenges. This commitment reflects a profound dedication to improving quality of life and fostering hope in communities.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Peoples Bank Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

The Polk County Tech Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides a $2,000 award for eligible high school seniors from select schools. This scholarship is renewable for a second year if a 2.5 GPA is maintained while enrolled in an accredited two-year or vocational program. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and submit an essay detailing their work experience and academic goals, ensuring support for those pursuing careers in technical fields.

Community Finance Initiative 

Advancing the financial resilience of low-income households across the U.S.

This model enables us to engage and support a broad range of organizations across the globe to tackle some of the most pressing social issues of our time.

The Citi Foundation’s 2026 Community Finance Initiative commits $35 million to support programming that bolsters the financial stability, strength and safety of low-income households in the U.S.

Focus Areas

The Foundation seeks to support organizations advancing low-income household financial resilience in the United States across three focus areas:

Stabilize: Programs that help low-income households to build financial skills and confidence to manage daily finances and navigate financial stress.

• Financial coaching on budgeting, credit, debt reduction and savings strategies.
• Digital tools offering personalized financial guidance and product navigation.
• Assistance with public benefits and social safety net programs.

Strengthen: Programs that help low-income households build and repair credit, as well as short- and long-term financial assets.

• Financial products or services for credit building and credit repair.
• Initiatives to increase savings, including emergency funds.
• Support for homeownership, including readiness, preservation and long-term stability (e.g., first-time buyer assistance, preventing displacement and support systems for aging in place resources).

Safeguard: Programs that protect low-income household financial security by preventing and addressing financial losses.

• Education and support for the safe and confident use of digital financial tools.
• Fraud and scam awareness, prevention and recovery initiatives, including protection from identity theft.
• Interventions to help households recover from major financial shocks (e.g., healthcare costs, extended family care, job transitions or natural disasters).

Funding Opportunity

The Foundation plans to award 70 $500,000 (USD) grants (to be disbursed over two years) totaling $35 million to community organizations working in select communities where Citi has a presence.

The grants will be restricted and are anticipated to be disbursed in two annual payments in 2026 and 2027. Proposed projects should be for a term of 24 months, starting no sooner than August 1, 2026 and ending no later than December 31, 2028.

The Jefferies-Park Scholarship, established in 1988 by Evelyn Jefferies-Park, honors her commitment to education. It supports graduating seniors from Ord High School, Nebraska, who are in the top 15% of their class and plan to pursue a four-year degree. This scholarship reflects the legacy of generosity fostered by the Lincoln Community Foundation, which has provided over $606,000 in scholarships to local students in 2025 alone.

The Gunner Lee Thomason Autism Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides a $700 grant to a graduating high school senior or undergraduate student dedicated to working with autistic individuals and their families. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to those from the Truman Lake area. The application requires a transcript, essay, letter of recommendation, and a description of community service and work experience.

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 Gravelin Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, awards a $450 grant to a graduating high school senior who has faced significant life challenges, such as illness or trauma. Eligible candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.3, show financial need via a FAFSA-SAI form, and plan to enroll in an accredited two-year, four-year, or vocational institution. Applicants are required to submit a transcript, a personal essay, and details of their community service and school involvement.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Philippine Professionals Association Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

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 Anna Lalor Burdick Program supports initiatives that enhance women's access to reproductive health care, contraception, and pregnancy termination. It prioritizes funding programs that provide comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education, particularly for disadvantaged women. The program seeks innovative approaches, clear goals, and sustainable models, while emphasizing advocacy efforts. Organizations dedicated to reproductive rights in restrictive environments are encouraged to apply, as the foundation aims to empower women through informed choices.

The Ruth D. Frick Ames Scholarship, established by Robert Ames to honor his wife, supports students pursuing a nursing degree. Managed by the South Dakota Community Foundation, this scholarship aims to ease the financial burden for those aged 18-32 with a GPA of 2.9 or higher. Applicants should demonstrate financial need, strong academic performance, and community involvement. This initiative reflects Ruth's legacy of compassion, service, and commitment to helping others in the nursing field.

The Hillman Emergent Innovation Grant offers $50,000 for 12-18 months to support innovative nursing-driven interventions for underserved populations facing health care access barriers, including racial minorities and low-income individuals. It encourages fresh, early-stage ideas targeting serious illness and end-of-life care challenges. By fostering community engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration, the program aims to transform care delivery in diverse settings, ensuring equitable health services for all.

The Ben J. Lipps Research Fellowship Program supports nephrology fellows in conducting original research on kidney biology and disease. Each fellow receives $50,000 annually for up to two years, with a limit of two applications per sponsor per cycle. Candidates must hold an MD, DO, PhD, or equivalent and commit to 75% research time. The program encourages applications from underrepresented minorities in medicine, fostering diversity in nephrology research.

The Aden, Jane and Roger Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides a $500 financial award to Beatrice High School graduating seniors actively involved in a Christian church. With a focus on financial need, applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. Established in 1987, the Foundation supports educational opportunities within the Beatrice School District, managing a $3.8 million Endowment Fund and providing over $55,000 in scholarships annually.

The Walter J. Weber, Jr. AEESP Frontier in Research Award recognizes outstanding professors in environmental engineering or science for their innovative research contributions. Awardees receive a plaque, a cash prize of $500, and a $750 travel allotment for attending the ceremony. Nominations are valid for three years and must include a complete package of materials, ensuring strong endorsement of the nominee's pioneering work in the field.

The MASOT Student Poster Awards, organized by the Society of Toxicology, invite graduate and undergraduate students to showcase their research at the annual meeting on November 5, 2025. Participants can win cash awards for their presentations. Eligible students must submit an extended abstract of up to 500 words and be members of MASOT. This event promotes scientific engagement and recognition for emerging toxicology scholars.