Best Seed Grants for Nonprofits in New York

The Corky Kress Golf Scholarship, administered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from specific high schools in Iowa who are members of their golf teams. This scholarship, which is need-based and offers up to $2,500, aims to assist students in covering college costs for two-year or four-year programs. Financial need is a primary criterion for selection, emphasizing the importance of academic performance and commitment to the sport.

The ACES Foundation Fund, managed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, offers scholarships to high school seniors from Cumberland, Dauphin, or Perry County. Eligible students must pursue business-related studies or trades, demonstrate academic achievement with a minimum GPA of 2.5, and show commitment to community service. This initiative aims to support future entrepreneurs and enhance community development through educational funding.

The Conrad Siegel “Numbers Matter” Community Scholarship Fund, established by Conrad M. Siegel, Inc., supports underserved students in Central PA pursuing degrees in math, finance, and related fields. This initiative aims to enhance diversity in financial professions by alleviating the financial burden of higher education for students from minority backgrounds. The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, dedicated to strengthening local communities, manages this scholarship to empower the next generation of leaders in these disciplines.

The Harry N. and Melva A. Derickson Scholarship, managed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, supports residents of Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry Counties pursuing degrees in medical, dental, nursing, physical therapy, or engineering fields. This endowment aims to promote academic achievement and community service, with a preference for gender balance in award distribution. By investing in future healthcare professionals, the scholarship fosters educational advancement and strengthens local communities.

The Jack and Edna May Yost Scholarship, managed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, supports graduating seniors from Dauphin or Cumberland counties pursuing higher education at accredited colleges. Priority is given to children of postal employees and those majoring in nursing or education. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, demonstrate community service, and show financial need. This scholarship aims to empower students and promote educational equity in the community.

The Nathan Cummings Foundation offers Venture Grants to support social entrepreneurs with innovative solutions addressing inequality and climate change. These short-term grants aim to foster partnerships and expedite necessary funding. The foundation prioritizes projects aligned with its mission of advancing racial, economic, and environmental justice, focusing on systemic change through a holistic approach. Eligible applicants must demonstrate alignment with the foundation's values of diversity, equity, and inclusion to qualify for funding opportunities.

The ASH-Roland B. Scott Award, presented by the American Society of Hematology, honors outstanding research on Sickle Cell Disease by a resident. This prestigious award includes a $16,000 honorarium, $2,000 for mentor research supplies, and $2,000 for travel to the annual meeting. It recognizes the legacy of Dr. Roland B. Scott, emphasizing the importance of innovative research in improving patient outcomes in hematology.

The Michael Jackson Scholarship, provided by the United Negro College Fund, offers up to $4,000 in financial assistance for Communication and Performing Arts students at UNCF-member colleges during the 2025-26 academic year. This one-time award aims to support students with financial needs, reflecting UNCF's commitment to enhancing minority education and fostering future leaders. With a history of over $5 billion in scholarships, UNCF continues to champion educational opportunities for thousands of students.

The National Geographic Content Scholarship, offered by the United Negro College Fund, supports juniors and seniors from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Recipients receive a $10,000 award and participate in a one-week immersion program with National Geographic, gaining valuable industry experience and mentorship. This program seeks passionate individuals interested in creative storytelling and environmental advocacy, promoting diversity and inclusion within the media field.

The Gates Scholarship (TGS) is a prestigious last-dollar scholarship launched by the Gates Foundation in 2017, aimed at empowering high school seniors from low-income backgrounds. By covering financial barriers, it supports exceptional student leaders in pursuing their college education. The program not only provides funding but also engages scholars with resources and services throughout their academic journey, fostering their growth into future leaders. TGS exemplifies the Foundation's commitment to educational equity and student success.

The Ordóñez Family Scholarship aims to support graduates from Detroit Public Schools or accredited private high schools in southwest Detroit. This renewable scholarship offers $1,250 annually for up to four years, totaling $5,000. Applicants must have resided in southwest Detroit throughout high school and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA in college. Renewal is contingent upon reapplication and meeting academic criteria, ensuring continued support for eligible students.

The Common Ground Scholarship, awarded by the Foundation for Rural Service, supports high school seniors from rural communities across America with two $9,000 scholarships. Preference is given to students pursuing studies in environmental sustainability, social justice, telecommunications, or economic development. This initiative has provided over $1 million in scholarships, empowering rural students to enhance their communities with vital skills and experiences, thus fostering future leaders in various fields.

The nccPA Health Foundation: Kathy J. Pedersen Grant aims to promote equitable health care by providing up to $5,000 for innovative projects that address health disparities. This grant honors Kathy J. Pedersen's legacy and encourages applicants to develop actionable strategies that foster cultural humility, advocate for underserved populations, and improve public health. Grantees are expected to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and social accountability in their proposed initiatives.

The nccPA Health Foundation: Equitable Care - Be the Change Grant supports PAs and PA students in implementing projects that improve health access and promote equity in their communities. With a focus on addressing health disparities, applicants can receive up to $2,500 to fund innovative initiatives. Applications are accepted year-round, enabling ongoing support for transformative health solutions aimed at fostering equitable care for underserved populations.

The nccPA Health Foundation's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion - PAs STEP Up Grant aims to empower PAs and PA students to create initiatives that enhance diversity and foster inclusive practices within the PA profession. With funding up to $2,500, this grant encourages projects that raise awareness of the PA profession among underrepresented groups, ultimately striving to reduce health disparities and promote equity. Applications are accepted year-round, providing ongoing support for impactful community-driven efforts.

The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile Jr. Scholarship Program, established by the Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile Jr. Foundation in partnership with UNCF, supports students attending UNCF member institutions, HBCUs, or other accredited four-year colleges. This renewable merit-based scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for residents of specific counties in Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana, particularly focusing on those majoring in education or STEM fields.

The Lillian and Larry Goodman Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing Jewish life in the U.S. and Israel, addressing drug abuse, and combating hunger. Established in 1994, the foundation supports various charitable organizations, prioritizing the preservation of Jewish culture and child welfare. It funds programs in Israel, particularly in Be'er Sheva, and aims to strengthen communities in Chicago and beyond. The foundation emphasizes mental health, substance abuse prevention, and food security initiatives.

The ACUMEN Scholarship, provided by the East Bay Community Foundation, aims to support financially challenged students from Youth Spirit Artworks, Oakland Tech High School, and McClymonds High School. Each year, up to three scholarships are awarded, with amounts of $5,000 for 2-year colleges and $8,000 for 4-year colleges. This initiative is designed to assist students with educational costs, encouraging their commitment to higher education.

The SAA Native American Undergraduate Archaeology Scholarship, funded by the Society for American Archaeology, supports Native American students pursuing undergraduate studies in archaeology. With an award of up to $6,000 available annually, this scholarship aims to empower students and promote the preservation of cultural heritage through education and collaboration. It encourages participation from all Native peoples across the Americas, ensuring accessibility and support for educational advancement in the field of archaeology.

The TFEC Aspire to Rise Scholarship Fund, managed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, offers financial support to non-traditional students aged 22 and older who have faced challenges in their educational journey. This scholarship is aimed at those pursuing higher education or vocational training, with special consideration for applicants without a post-secondary degree. Additionally, it supports individuals preparing for the GED, fostering opportunities for personal and professional growth in South Central Pennsylvania.

The Texas Educational Foundation Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports full-time students pursuing an Associate's Degree or vocational training. Open to Texas residents demonstrating financial need, this renewable scholarship covers tuition, fees, and supplies. Priority is given to Federal Job Corps graduates and honorably discharged veterans. Established in 1964, the foundation has significantly impacted the San Antonio community by funding education and enhancing quality of life.

The Theodore S. and Kathy Smith Smetzer Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, aims to support single parents, widowed individuals, and non-traditional students in furthering their education. Eligible applicants must have graduated from an Ashland County high school with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and have been accepted to an accredited institution. The scholarship considers work experience, financial need, and unusual circumstances, making it a vital resource for those facing financial hardships.

The Solomon Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools, especially Hillsdale students. Candidates must major in Elementary Education, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and be accepted to a four-year accredited college. Established in honor of Lee Solomon and Jane Welsh, this scholarship aims to foster future educators and promote a love for teaching in the community.

The McLaughlin-Wilson Scholarship Fund, established in 1994 by Edith Wilson, supports residents of Monterey, MA, in accessing post-secondary education. Created in memory of Marjorie McLaughlin, this fund reflects Wilson's commitment to aiding the educational pursuits of local youth. It emphasizes the importance of nurturing intelligent minds in the community, ensuring that high school graduates from Monterey can achieve their academic goals. This scholarship is a testament to the enduring friendship and shared values of its founders.

The Shanna Stoffer Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, aims to support Ashland County residents pursuing degrees in Education. Eligible applicants include graduating high school seniors, continuing college students, and non-traditional students with a minimum GPA of 2.5. This scholarship provides financial assistance to those enrolled or planning to enroll in two or four-year colleges or graduate programs, fostering educational advancement in the community.

The Robert & Joyce Stokes Family Scholarship, provided by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools with a GPA of 2.75 or above and at least two varsity letters. This scholarship honors the Stokes' commitment to education and service. Recipients can renew the scholarship for up to three years by maintaining full-time enrollment and a GPA of 2.75, ensuring ongoing support for their educational journey.

The Beistle Company Scholarship, managed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, provides financial support for legal dependents of full-time Beistle Company employees. If no eligible dependents apply, it extends to Shippensburg High School graduates and other local students. Applicants must demonstrate academic promise, financial need, and be accepted into an accredited institution. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for deserving students in the community.