Best Seed Grants for Nonprofits in New York

Purpose of Scholarship

For a graduating Rochester City School District senior who plans to study science, technology, engineering, or math at Monroe Community College.

Allowed Use of Award - Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

The AWS District Scholarships, offered by the American Welding Society, provide financial support for students pursuing welder training in certificate programs. Annually, up to 800 scholarships worth $1,000 each are available for those attending accredited trade schools or community colleges. Eligible applicants must reside within AWS District boundaries and plan to attend a qualifying institution. Funds can cover tuition, fees, and necessary supplies, promoting growth in the welding profession.

About AWS

We Move Welding Forward

Founded in 1919, the American Welding Society is a nonprofit organization with a global mission: to advance the science, technology, and application of welding and allied joining and cutting processes worldwide, including brazing, soldering, and thermal spraying.

By fostering knowledge, embracing change, and providing real-world opportunities through scholarships, fellowships, and workforce development, AWS provides the tools to help members succeed—and to inspire future generations of welding professionals.

Section and District Named Scholarships

Many AWS Sections offer scholarships funded by local members, companies, and donors. These scholarships are designated for students within each section and range from $1,000 to $3,000+.

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide financial assistance to a current, full-time, sophomore or junior female student at St. John Fisher University continuing her education.

Allowed Use of Award - Awards may be used for educational expenses at St. John Fisher University.

The selection process is coordinated through St. John Fisher University. A committee at the college reviews applications, selects the recipient(s), and informs the Community Foundation.

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide scholarships for optometry students in an accredited College of Optometry who demonstrate financial need and a sincere desire to practice optometry in Upstate New York after graduation, preferably in the counties of Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, Ontario, and/or Wayne.

Allowed Use of Award - Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other educational expenses for optometry school.

Preference is given to applicants who want to return to Upstate New York after graduation and work in areas served by the Rochester Optometric Society. 

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Lillian A. Jones Scholarship Fund

This fund was established in memory of Lillian A. Jones to support academic scholarships for graduate students who are Calhoun County residents. "Often times students finish their undergraduate degree and are in debt or just don't have the funds to continue on to higher degrees," said Lillian speaking about her fund, "There is a real need for these students too."

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

John "Jack" and Jo Schils Scholarship Fund

The John "Jack" and Jo Schils Scholarship Fund was established by the Schils family in 2020 as a memorial tribute to John "Jack" Schils, a multi-sports coach, athletic director, teacher, principal, father, grandfather, husband and friend to many. This fund supports students from the Battle Creek Public Schools District where Jack was employed from 1958 until his retirement in 1986.

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

West Shore Cardiology Consultants, P.C. Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of West Shore Cardiology Consultants, P.C., who established the West Shore Cardiology Consultants, P. C. Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. The five partners, Dr. Carl Gebuhr, Dr. Ralph Ryan, Dr. Mark Meengs, Dr. John Skallerup, and Dr. Gregory Bernath, felt they "...wanted to give something back to the community," and therefore chose a scholarship fund because of a strong commitment to education and its impact on an individual's success. Awards are for Muskegon County students with merit and financial need.

The William W. and Beverly I. Sutton Scholarship, provided by the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, aims to empower Muskegon County residents to achieve their educational dreams. This scholarship is available to high school seniors, current college students, and adult learners. With over $1 million in scholarships awarded annually, it reflects the Foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities and community growth, ensuring that the legacy of Bill and Beverly Sutton continues to inspire future generations.

Battle Creek Community Foundation

Our Mission: The Battle Creek Community Foundation connects people, ideas, and resources to expand opportunity and create lasting community benefit for today and tomorrow.

Scholarships

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Aaron W. Howard Scholarship Fund

The Aaron W. Howard Scholarship Fund was established by the parents, family and friends of Aaron Howard. Pfc. Howard died in February 1991 while serving in the U.S. Army in the Persian Gulf War. He was a 1989 Lakeview High School graduate. There are no restrictions as to college to be attended or curriculum to be followed. To qualify, an applicant must be in need of financial assistance and must have demonstrated potential to succeed in the college curriculum to be pursued. Factors considered, in addition to financial need are character and citizenship, industry and effort and ability as indicated by test data and grades received to date in high school.

Battle Creek Community Foundation

Our Mission: The Battle Creek Community Foundation connects people, ideas, and resources to expand opportunity and create lasting community benefit for today and tomorrow.

Scholarships

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Athens Area Community Foundation Scholarship Fund

The Athens Area Community Foundation (AACF) was created by and for the residents of the community and, therefore, belongs to everyone in this community! Athens Area Community Foundation responds to our changing needs, including developing postsecondary education scholarships. The AACF Scholarship is for graduating seniors and graduates of Athens High School, or current Athens area residents, who wish to seek postsecondary education and have a grade point average of 2.5 or above.

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports nearly 70 academic, sports, special circumstances, and 4-H scholarships. Search scholarships by name, or sort by application type.

Grace I. Cookson Memorial Scholarship

The purpose of Grace I Cookson Memorial Scholarship is to offer college scholarships to worthy graduating seniors and members of the United Methodist Church, Baltimore Suburban District (formerly the West Baltimore District), in the Baltimore-Washington Conference, or its successor.

Community Foundation of Carroll County

The Community Foundation of Carroll County, Inc. was established in 1994 to ensure financial support for Carroll County not-for-profit organizations. It is governed by a Board of Directors and is a 501c(3) public charity. The Community Foundation of Carroll County is trusted partner for donors and nonprofits. We provide one central place where anyone can create a charitable fund, support what matters most, and leave a legacy of lasting impact.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports more than 75 scholarships. These scholarships vary in the amounts they award and cover a wide variety of student interests. Qualifiers range from academic achievements, sports played, and community service performed, to 4-H and FFA involvement. While the majority are for graduating Carroll County high school seniors, there are several for students in college or technical school, and even opportunities for students attending private primary school. 

Westminster Pride Scholarship

The Westminster Pride Scholarship aims to provide some assistance to students of the LGBTQ+ community and student allies in furthering their education beyond high school.

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports nearly 70 academic, sports, special circumstances, and 4-H scholarships. Search scholarships by name, or sort by application type.

Danele Shipley Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Danele Shipley Scholarship Award Fund will provide financial assistance to a number of students from Carroll County to be determined based on the amount of money available in accordance with the terms of this agreement. The student must have shown outstanding citizenship traits and have been involved in student service activities and extra-curricular activities during his or her high school career.

Community Foundation of Carroll County

The Community Foundation of Carroll County, Inc. was established in 1994 to ensure financial support for Carroll County not-for-profit organizations. It is governed by a Board of Directors and is a 501c(3) public charity. The Community Foundation of Carroll County is trusted partner for donors and nonprofits. We provide one central place where anyone can create a charitable fund, support what matters most, and leave a legacy of lasting impact.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports more than 75 scholarships. These scholarships vary in the amounts they award and cover a wide variety of student interests. Qualifiers range from academic achievements, sports played, and community service performed, to 4-H and FFA involvement. While the majority are for graduating Carroll County high school seniors, there are several for students in college or technical school, and even opportunities for students attending private primary school. 

Bee a Rae of Sunshine Foundation – MaKenzi Rae Cash Memorial Volleyball Scholarship

To empower student-athletes who demonstrate leadership, teamwork, and a passion for uplifting others, celebrating MaKenzi Rae Cash’s spirit of perseverance, kindness, and her advocacy for anti-bullying both on and off the court.

Marjorie and Robert Schaumleffel Rotary Scholarship

This scholarship, in memory of Robert and Marjorie Schaumleffel, is for a graduating senior of Olean, Portville, Archbishop Walsh, or Allegany-Limestone who is an active member of of the Rotary Interact Club and displays a value in "service above self."

The World Trade Center Health Program K01 Award supports early-career researchers dedicated to enhancing the health of those impacted by the September 11 attacks. This award grants up to three years of mentored research and career development, focusing on the physical and mental health effects of 9/11 exposures. It encourages studies that translate scientific findings into improved clinical care and public health practices, ultimately addressing emerging health concerns and improving long-term outcomes for affected populations.

Northern New York Community Foundation

Since 1929, the Northern New York Community Foundation has invested in improving and enriching the quality of life for all in communities across Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties.

Through partnerships with businesses and organizations, charitable foundations, and generous families and individual donors, the Community Foundation awards grants and scholarships from an endowment and collection of funds that benefit the region. Its commitment to donors helps individuals achieve their charitable objectives now and for generations to come by preserving and honoring legacies of community philanthropy while inspiring others.

Brittany Walroth Memorial Scholarship

The person, for whom the scholarship is named, Brittany Marie Walrath, was a 2004 graduate of General Brown High School. She was a cheerleader for the GB Lions since fifth grade with the Pop Warner. Her squad took the Championship trophy in 2003. She was an energetic, loving, hardworking young lady who was tragically killed in a car accident in July of 2010. Brittany was a wonderful daughter, friend, wife and aunt and cared a great deal about people. These traits lead her into a job of helping with children.

Brittany worked for the YMCA in the SACC program starting in her junior year until she was called to work at Fort Drum's Child Development Center in 2006. Brittany was a positive role model and spoke of helping children with learning disabilities, like herself. Through Brittany's education, supportive services were essential to allowing her to reach her to reach her academic potential. Therefore, we know she would be honored for this scholarship to be given in memory of her. We would like to encourage an energetic individual who cares to follow their dreams.

This scholarship fund has been instituted in her memory. Money raised from donations and events has been deposited in an interest bearing account.

This scholarship will be awarded annually. The annual award for the Brittany Marie Walrath Memorial Scholarship Fund will be $500. 

The A. Lindsay & Olive B. O’Connor Foundation offers grants up to $2,000 aimed at enhancing the lives of children and youth in Delaware County, NY. Eligible applicants include municipalities, religious organizations, and 501(c)(3) entities. However, individual applicants and proposals for debt repayment or completed projects are not considered. This initiative seeks to directly impact the community's quality of life.

Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida connects people who care with causes that matter. Since 1964, we have served the citizens of Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Clay, and Putnam counties through a range of charitable and civic activities, while helping individual donors achieve their philanthropic goals. We believe in Giving Back. Forever Forward.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous donors, The Community Foundation offers several scholarships each year that benefit students in Northeast Florida who are seeking post-secondary degrees.

Byon M. Morris Scholarship

The Byon M. Morris Scholarship will provide $4,800 ($1,200 per year for 4 years) to support tuition, books, fees, room & board, and degree-related expenses for one graduating senior who has attained Scouting’s highest ranks. One Eagle Scout (Boy Scouts) or one Gold Award winner (Girl Scouts), who demonstrates an aptitude and desire to succeed, will receive the scholarship. In selecting the successful candidate, the review committee will consider academic achievements, leadership experience, desire for personal growth and financial need.

Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida connects people who care with causes that matter. Since 1964, we have served the citizens of Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Clay, and Putnam counties through a range of charitable and civic activities, while helping individual donors achieve their philanthropic goals. We believe in Giving Back. Forever Forward.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous donors, The Community Foundation offers several scholarships each year that benefit students in Northeast Florida who are seeking post-secondary degrees.

Sam and Lydia Payne Scholarship

The Sam and Lydia Payne Scholarship will provide financial assistance for three students graduating from a North Florida public or private school who demonstrate an aptitude and desire to succeed. The scholarship will support tuition and books, up to $12,000 ($3,000 per year for 4 years) provided the recipient continues to meet the eligibility requirements. In selecting the successful candidate, the review committee will consider a desire for personal growth and financial need.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Jennifer L. Jackson Memorial Scholarship

Jennifer L. (Hanson) Jackson was a wonderful young woman on a mission to absorb as much knowledge as humanly possible. Graduating second in her class at Arthur Hill High School in 1995, she excelled in academics while also cultivating a deep interest in history and the arts. She was truly a “Star Wars” fan and trivia expert.

Even though Jennifer’s life ended much too early, her spirit lives on with her family. They choose to honor her memory through this scholarship. The successful candidates will be expected to possess high academic promise, good moral character and personal integrity.

Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida connects people who care with causes that matter. Since 1964, we have served the citizens of Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Clay, and Putnam counties through a range of charitable and civic activities, while helping individual donors achieve their philanthropic goals. We believe in Giving Back. Forever Forward.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous donors, The Community Foundation offers several scholarships each year that benefit students in Northeast Florida who are seeking post-secondary degrees.

Talen Charles Birt Memorial Scholarship

The Talen Charles Birt Memorial Scholarship will provide financial assistance for students graduating from Andrew Jackson, First Coast, Jean Ribault, or William M. Raines High Schools in Duval County. In selecting the successful candidate, the review committee will consider the students’ demonstrated commitment to academics and leadership, plans to pursue a 2- or 4-year degree and can articulate why they have selected their area of study, and financial need. The one-time scholarship will support tuition and books, up to $2,000.

The Sports 4 Life Grants, co-founded by the Women’s Sports Foundation and ESPN, aim to promote the health and development of girls in underserved communities. This initiative focuses on increasing participation and retention rates of Black, Hispanic, and Native American girls in sports through funding for coaching, equipment, and facilities. By fostering leadership and self-esteem, the program seeks to empower young girls and provide them with lifelong benefits from sports participation.

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois will make a sustainable philanthropic impact in our community through visible leadership in connecting people who care with causes that matter.

Gerald C. Bulkeley Scholarship Fund 

The Gerald C. Bulkeley Scholarship Fund was established by his family to honor his legacy of service to the Abingdon community. A graduate of Abingdon High School, Mr. Bulkeley was dedicated to supporting young people through civic and educational leadership.

This scholarship is available for students attending school in District 276 and residing within the boundaries of former District 217. The student will receive the scholarship award each year for four years.

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

Anne D. Maloof Scholarship

This is a one-time scholarship for $3,000 to honor and financially assist graduate, professional or undergraduate students in Island, Kitsap, Jefferson, and Thurston counties.

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

Doug Struthers Memorial Scholarship

Doug Struthers taught at Alexander Graham Bell Elementary in the Lake Washington School District for more than two decades. His hard work, commitment and perseverance made a difference in the school and the community. This scholarship fund was created in his memory to help young people learn skills to serve their communities. Four Lake Washington School District students every year are chosen to receive this $5,000 renewable scholarship.