Best Seed Grants for Nonprofits in New York

The Junior Hamilton Memorial Mariachi Scholarship is designed to support graduating seniors from Wenatchee, Eastmont, or Westside High School who have shown dedication to the Mariachi Program. This scholarship honors Junior Hamilton's vibrant spirit and enables students to pursue higher education. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.85 and demonstrate continued involvement in the mariachi program. Renewal is possible through reapplication, ensuring ongoing support for deserving students in North Central Washington.

The ASHP Foundation offers Professional Advancement Scholarships for up to 13 graduating pharmacy students to attend the 2025 ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting. Each recipient will receive full meeting registration and $1,000 for travel expenses. This initiative aims to enhance professional development and networking opportunities for future pharmacists, facilitating their engagement with the pharmacy community and furthering their education in patient care.

The BRAIN Initiative seeks innovative proposals for preclinical proof of concept studies on novel recording and modulation technologies aimed at diagnosing and treating central nervous system (CNS) disorders. This initiative supports diverse, multidisciplinary teams to enhance our understanding of the human CNS and prepare technologies for first-in-human studies. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time, with optional Letters of Intent encouraged 60 days prior to the proposal deadline.

The Cohen Family and L. and V., Inc. Family Scholarship aims to alleviate financial barriers for students pursuing nursing or related fields. Offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, this scholarship is designed for adults, including non-traditional and vocational students. With a focus on broadening access to education, the foundation provides support to those seeking further education, ensuring that help is available throughout the application process.

The NIDDK Disorders of Gastrointestinal Interoception Consortium Clinical Centers (DGIC) aims to enhance understanding of gastrointestinal disorders by expanding the previous Gastroparesis Consortium's research scope. This initiative will include adult and pediatric conditions linked to impaired interoceptive processing, utilizing multidisciplinary approaches to uncover mechanisms connecting GI function to symptoms, identify biomarkers for treatment efficacy, and explore new therapeutic targets for future clinical trials.

The Wilhelm Family Foundation Grants aim to enhance access to artistic resources by funding diverse nonprofit arts organizations. Prioritizing projects that engage with environmental and climate issues, the foundation seeks to support creative expression and collaboration in underserved communities. Emphasizing equality and sustainability, it fosters artistic practices that empower individuals and promote cultural dialogue. Grants are typically awarded to small organizations, focusing on community engagement and longevity in the arts sector.

The PEN Prison Writing Awards, initiated after the 1971 Attica Prison Riots, invites incarcerated writers in the U.S. to submit unpublished works across various genres including Poetry, Fiction, and Memoir. Winners receive cash prizes and their works are published in an annual anthology. This program not only recognizes talent within carceral facilities but also supports writers through mentorship, fostering creativity and expression in challenging circumstances.

The American Association of University Women Scholarship supports women who are resuming their education after interruptions, specifically targeting adult students aiming to complete a 4-year degree. Applications open on November 1 and close on February 1. This scholarship encourages women, particularly sophomores at Corning Community College planning to transfer to a 4-year institution, to pursue their academic goals without financial barriers, thereby enhancing educational opportunities in the community.

The Heart of Illinois Community Foundation Scholarships provide financial support for high school seniors in Macon, Moultrie, and Piatt County. Annually, over 70 students benefit from these awards, ranging from $500 to $10,000, to pursue higher education. Funded by generous donors, the program aims to enhance educational outcomes in the community. Eligibility includes being a graduating senior or an existing college student previously awarded a multi-year scholarship. Various criteria may apply to each scholarship.

The United Way of Greater Niagara Grants aim to empower local youth through strategic funding for programs that enhance their social, emotional, and mental development. Committed to creating impactful community initiatives, the organization supports eligible 501c3 entities in Niagara County and the City of Tonawanda. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, the United Way seeks to cultivate leadership and resilience in youth, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

The HTR Foundation Grant supports the preservation of American Civil War sites and educational projects related to this heritage. Grants are available to tax-exempt organizations and government agencies, focusing on land acquisition and public engagement while excluding endowments, individual support, and local interest projects. This initiative promotes the historical, cultural, and environmental legacy of the United States, ensuring the continued education and awareness of the Civil War's significance.

The Brinson Prize Fellowship Program, in partnership with The Brinson Foundation, offers support for early career astrophysicists and cosmologists pursuing innovative research in observational cosmology. This program emphasizes the importance of connecting science with society and provides up to three years of funding, including a stipend for independent research. Applicants must hold a PhD in relevant fields and can apply for fellowships starting in 2026, which include professional development opportunities.

The SAA Native American Graduate Archaeology Scholarship, funded by the Society for American Archaeology, supports Native American graduate students pursuing studies in archaeology. Each year, one scholarship is awarded, providing up to $10,000 to cover tuition, travel, housing, and other educational expenses. This initiative aims to foster collaboration between archaeologists and Native American communities while promoting ethical practices and preservation of cultural heritage.

The Shari Simon Greenberg Community Scholarship, offered by the Simon Youth Foundation, supports high school seniors residing near Simon malls. This scholarship aims to help first-generation college students and those with financial need pursue higher education. With an annual funding of approximately $1 million, the foundation ensures more students have the opportunity to chase their dreams by alleviating post-secondary expenses for those determined to learn.

The Knowles Teaching Fellowship supports emerging high school science and mathematics teachers in the U.S. Ideal candidates possess a strong academic background, leadership skills, and a commitment to teaching. The fellowship emphasizes comprehensive development through mentoring and financial support, including grants for classroom materials and stipends to alleviate financial burdens. By fostering a community of over 500 educators, the program aims to enhance teaching quality and sustainability in the profession over a five-year trajectory.

The Beyond the Cure Ambassador Scholarship Program, offered by the National Children’s Cancer Society, supports childhood cancer survivors in their pursuit of higher education. Celebrating resilience and determination, this program awards 50 scholarships annually, empowering survivors to achieve their academic and professional dreams. With over 35 years of experience, the NCCS has provided significant financial assistance to families navigating the challenges of childhood cancer, ensuring that no family faces this journey alone.

The Southern Cayuga Scholarship Fund, established by the Southern Cayuga Scholarship Foundation, aims to support local students in pursuing higher education. This initiative encourages community donations to provide financial assistance to both graduating seniors and non-traditional students from the Southern Cayuga district. By alleviating financial barriers, the fund empowers individuals to achieve their educational goals and enhance their future opportunities.

The William K. Wiley Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports high school seniors and non-traditional students from Ashland County who are pursuing degrees in History or related fields. Established in memory of William K. Wiley, this scholarship honors his contributions to the community. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.25 and complete a 20-hour internship at the Historical Society, fostering a commitment to preserving local history.

The William and Marlene Rose Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools who plan to major in Pre-Med or Nursing. Eligible students must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and be accepted to an accredited four-year college or university. This scholarship aims to assist deserving students in pursuing their education in the medical field.

The TW and Marjorie Smith Scholarship, established by the Ashland County Community Foundation, aims to support graduating seniors from any Ashland County high school who are pursuing a degree in Agriculture or a related field. This scholarship not only provides financial assistance for education at accredited colleges or universities but also honors the Smiths' commitment to benefiting their local community.

The Elmer Baker Student Fellowship, offered by the ACI Foundation, supports undergraduate students entering their junior or senior year in civil or structural engineering, or construction management. Recipients receive a $10,000 educational stipend, recognition in Concrete International magazine, and paid travel to ACI conventions. Internships at Baker Concrete Construction are mandatory. The fellowship aims to foster the next generation of leaders in the construction industry by providing financial support and mentorship opportunities.

The Horticulture Printers Scholarship, established in memory of Harold & Beky Vanberg, offers up to $5,000 for dependents of Veritiv employees. This one-year scholarship can be applied at any accredited U.S. college or university. Selection criteria include academic achievement, SAT/ACT scores, civic involvement, and financial need. Since 1953, Communities Foundation of Texas has partnered with donors to support educational opportunities, fostering thriving communities through accessible scholarship programs.

The IML Mentorship Grant offers students at the Eastman School of Music funding and mentorship to foster innovative ideas in music. It seeks applicants who demonstrate musical excellence, a compelling project concept, and the potential for sustainable initiatives. Eligible candidates must be full-time students during the award period and attend an advising appointment before applying. This grant aims to enhance creativity and add value to both the music field and the community.

The Baker Student Fellowship, offered by the ACI Foundation, supports undergraduate students in civil engineering or related fields entering their junior or senior year. Recipients receive a $10,000 educational stipend, recognition in Concrete International magazine, and travel expenses for two ACI conventions. An internship at Baker Concrete Construction is required. This fellowship aims to foster the next generation of leaders in the construction industry through financial support and mentorship.

The AOE Fellowship, established by the ACI Foundation in memory of Wendy O. Ward, supports undergraduate students pursuing careers in sales, marketing, or public relations within the concrete industry. Awardees receive a $10,000 stipend for educational expenses, mentorship opportunities, and recognition in industry publications. This fellowship encourages students from diverse backgrounds to apply, fostering growth and innovation in the concrete sector. By participating, students gain valuable insights and support for their academic and career aspirations.

The ACI Foundation Future Concrete Industry Leader Fellowship provides $10,000 to undergraduate students demonstrating leadership potential in the concrete industry. Recipients are recognized in Concrete International magazine and matched with industry mentors. The fellowship emphasizes self-motivation, integrity, and collaboration, with no internship requirement. Students must attend a U.S., Canadian, or Mexican institution and submit a report detailing the fellowship's impact on their career preparation. This initiative supports the next generation of concrete industry leaders.