Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in North Carolina

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors.

Trimble Scholarship for Martin County Fund

• Must participate in extracurricular activities.
• Based on financial need.

Innovia Foundation

Each year, Innovia awards over $500,000 in scholarships to deserving students like you who are college-bound or pursuing vocational or technical training. Single scholarship awards range between $500 and $10,000.

Rika Ream Environmental Scholarship

Applicants must be residents of Spokane County who are accepted or enrolled as a full-time college student to pursue a degree in environmental sciences, environmental studies, ecology, recreational management, or land management. Previous recipients are eligible to re-apply. 

Epps Scholarship

The Epps Scholarship Fund was established at the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation by attorneys Willie and Mischa Epps to support the aspirations of college-bound high school seniors with an expressed interest in pursuing a legal education. This fund honors Dr. Willie James Epps, Sr. and Dr. Barbara Bacon Epps, both born and raised in rural, poor and segregated Mississippi, but excelled in school and became a part of the first generation in their respective families to attend college. Both went on to earn Ph.D.’s in the field of education and to teach at various schools, colleges and universities across the country. They instilled in their two children that faith and education are the keys to success. Their children became licensed attorneys who regularly attend church. Willie and his wife Mischa chose a non-traditional path to promote the scholarship opportunity by working in partnership with churches that disseminate the application and deadline information throughout their congregations.

The Epps Scholarship Fund awards scholarships to college-bound high school seniors based on demonstrated academic achievement, financial need, and an express interest in pursuing a legal education.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in equal payments in August and January. Each scholarship awarded will be a minimum of $2,000 annually to be paid in two equal installments.

This scholarship is not renewable.

The Health-Surgical Care Fund Grant, provided by the Orange County Community Foundation, aims to support underfunded, volunteer-driven organizations offering surgical care for various physical or cosmetic deformities. The Fund prioritizes programs with a significant long-term impact, ensuring services are free to the community. Eligible organizations must demonstrate accountability, transparency, and a commitment to serving U.S. citizens, while allocating at least 70% of their budget to direct program expenses.

The Grant and Bridget Daugherty Nursing Scholarship, administered by the Coral Gables Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to Coral Gables High School seniors pursuing a Nursing major. The scholarship ranges from $1,000 to $5,000 for one academic year. Recipients must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and submit transcripts annually to retain funding. This initiative supports students committed to academic excellence and a career in healthcare.

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Bruce and Crystal Burgett Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Bruce and Crystal Burgett Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to assist Carrollton, Edison, or New Philadelphia High School graduates or graduating seniors majoring in an agricultural-related field of study. Students must demonstrate above-average academic achievement and a history of participation in extracurricular, civic, and/or community activities.

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

Student Academic Success

What We Fund

As detailed in Our Approach, MDBF's goal for its grantmaking is to support nonprofits to strengthen their effectiveness as organizations in ways that lead to long-term sustainability. We strongly encourage you to read Our Grantmaking Approach for essential information regarding how we make funding decisions and to prepare you for the information we ask for in the application.

Early Learning Programs: We support PreK organizations whose primary purpose is kindergarten readiness. Evidence-based programs are a plus.

Academic Achievement: We support organizations whose primary purpose is to support K-12 students' academic achievement. These include organizations that build academic skills through structured academic learning opportunities and/or structured tutoring and professional training for teachers and tutors that align with the standard NC curriculum. Evidence-based programs are a plus.

MDBF's multiyear grant application will open January 16 with a February 15 deadline, and the one-year application will open in August 2026. For more information, including application timeline and eligibility requirements, please visit our Multiyear Grantmaking Guidelines webpage.

Student Academic Success: Multiyear Grant

Organizations that focus on academic achievement AND have received funding from MDBF in the previous 5 years are eligible to apply for a 3-year grant.

Each year, we will award 5-7 general operating support grants to nonprofit organizations that further our grantmaking goals. Grant amounts range from $15,000 - $50,000 a year for each organization. MDBF has a finite budget and may not be able to fund the full amount requested. If your application moves forward, MDBF staff will work with your organization to determine the actual requested amount. Please know that there is no penalty for requesting the maximum amount at the LOI stage.

Both developing nonprofits and established organizations are eligible for these grants. All organizations must have a primary focus on the Student Academic Success. Organizations must be located in and main programming must take place in Chatham, Durham, Orange, and/or Wake Counties, NC.

Student Academic Success

What We Fund

As detailed in Our Approach, MDBF's goal for its grantmaking is to support nonprofits to strengthen their effectiveness as organizations in ways that lead to long-term sustainability. We strongly encourage you to read Our Grantmaking Approach for essential information regarding how we make funding decisions and to prepare you for the information we ask for in the application.

Early Learning Programs: We support PreK organizations whose primary purpose is kindergarten readiness. Evidence-based programs are a plus.

Academic Achievement: We support organizations whose primary purpose is to support K-12 students' academic achievement. These include organizations that build academic skills through structured academic learning opportunities and/or structured tutoring and professional training for teachers and tutors that align with the standard NC curriculum. Evidence-based programs are a plus.

MDBF's multiyear grant application will open January 16 with a February 15 deadline, and the one-year application will open in August 2026. For more information, including application timeline and eligibility requirements, please visit our One-Year Grantmaking Guidelines webpage.

Student Academic Success: One-Year Grant

Both developing nonprofits and established organizations are eligible for these grants. All organizations must have a primary focus on the Student Academic Success. Organizations must be located in and main programming must take place in Chatham, Durham, Orange, and/or Wake Counties, NC.

One-year general operating support grants are available to organizations that have not received a MDBF grant in the past five years or that are new to the foundation. Each year, MDBF will typically award 5 general operating support grants to nonprofit organizations that further our grantmaking goals.

Grants amounts range from $5,000 - $10,000 a year for each organization. MDBF has a finite budget and may not be able to fund the full amount requested. If your application moves forward, MDBF staff will work with your organization to determine the actual requested amount. Please know there is no penalty for requesting the maximum amount at the LOI stage.

Arts Education

Participating in the arts confers numerous benefits, from providing captivation and pleasure, to providing a vehicle for self-expression, to promoting cognitive growth and the capacity for empathy. Arts education can also provide the means for sharing ideas and images, cultural and political knowledge, and insights about humanity across generations. By nurturing creative thinking, collaboration, and other competencies, arts education can play a vital role in preparing students for fulfilling and successful lives and careers.

The Mary Duke Biddle Foundation supports organizations whose primary purpose is to provide high-quality, participatory arts education experiences for PreK-12 students. These organizations work with students who lack access to such programming because of economic conditions, race or ethnic background, geography, or different abilities.

MDBF's multiyear grant application will open January 16 with a February 15 deadline, and the one-year application will open in August 2026. For more information, including application timeline and eligibility requirements, please visit our One-Year Grantmaking Guidelines webpage.

One-Year Grants

Organizations that focus on PreK-12 arts education AND have not received funding from MDBF in the previous 5 years or have never received a grant from us are eligible to apply for a 1-year grant.

One-year general operating support grants are available to organizations that have not received a MDBF grant in the past five years or that are new to the foundation. Each year, MDBF will typically award 5 general operating support grants to nonprofit organizations that further our grantmaking goals. Both developing nonprofits and established organizations are eligible for these grants. All organizations must have a primary focus on the Arts Education.

Grants amounts range from $5,000 - $10,000 a year for each organization. MDBF has a finite budget and may not be able to fund the full amount requested. If your application moves forward, MDBF staff will work with your organization to determine the actual requested amount. Please know there is no penalty for requesting the maximum amount at the LOI stage.

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.

The Perry Township School Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Perry Township School Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to assist high school graduates or high school seniors who have permanent residency in Perry Township in Carroll County, Ohio or who had a permanent residence on the date they began their post high school education. Applicants must have been accepted at and are planning to enroll, or are currently enrolled, at an accredited college, university, or technical school with at least a two-year course of study to pursue further education.

Amount:

• Varies. Minimum $500.

Renewable:

• Yes

The Edwin R. Stucky Debate Scholarship, administered by the McPherson County Community Foundation, is designed for graduating seniors from McPherson County who have participated in the high school debate program. One $1,250 scholarship is available, which is renewable for an additional year, totaling $2,500. Preference will be given to students attending Moundridge High School. This scholarship aims to support students in furthering their education at a public post-secondary institution.

The American Academy of Optometry Foundation

The American Academy of Optometry (AAOF) is an association of optometric professionals who strive to stay at the top of their field. You will find like-minded colleagues within the American Academy of Optometry, an organization committed to promoting the art and science of vision care through lifelong learning.

The Academy’s membership is comprised of optometrists, vision scientists, and other qualified professionals who have committed themselves to the rigorous process required to achieve its prestigious designation, Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO).

For more than a century, the Academy has provided Fellows access to the best minds in optometry, vision science, research, and more. Today’s Fellows welcome the opportunity to attend the Academy’s premiere event, its annual meeting. Other members include students, residents, and Candidates for Fellowship.

Each fall attendees from around the world gather for thousands of hours of continuing education and exposure to the most recent research, networking, and latest products and services. Fellows particularly value the opportunity to connect with colleagues and mentors while enjoying an exceptional level of camaraderie.

OD to PhD Scholarship Program

The OD/PhD Scholarship Program funds optometrists receiving a PhD in eye and vision related fields. Examples of appropriate PhD programs include but are not limited to: Vision Science, Physiological Optics, Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, Education (emphasis on Optometric Education), Neuroscience, and Psychology. The program provides vital support to those who will teach and lead the next generation of optometry students and advance the profession’s cutting-edge research.

The American Academy of Optometry Foundation is proud to partner with EssilorLuxottica to offer the OD to PhD Fellowship, an opportunity created to support optometrists who are ready to take the next step into vision science research. This fellowship is open to individuals who have completed or are completing the clinical training required for the optometry degree and who are enrolling in a PhD program in vision science or a related biomedical discipline.

This competitive fellowship provides financial support during the early years of doctoral training. Awardees receive funding in their first year and may receive additional support in the second year based on successful academic and research progress as detailed in their annual progress report.

Note, awardees may receive the fellowship for up to one successive, two-year period. 

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin offers a robust college scholarship program, providing over $325,000 annually to students in Portage and Waushara counties. Scholarships, ranging from $500 to $40,000, are available for high school seniors, college students, and non-traditional learners. Selection criteria include financial need, community involvement, academic achievement, and extracurricular activities, ensuring support for a diverse range of educational pursuits.

The Dave Ragan Jr. Memorial Golf Scholarship, managed by the Coral Gables Community Foundation, offers financial support to graduating seniors with a passion for golf. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, demonstrate financial need, and intend to play golf at the collegiate level. This scholarship honors the legacy of Dave Ragan Jr. and aims to foster educational opportunities through sports. Over the years, the Foundation has awarded over $2.9 million in scholarships, emphasizing academic achievement and community engagement.

The Bill & Carol Rogacheski Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, provides financial support to students in Portage and Waushara counties. With scholarships ranging from $500 to $40,000, it aims to assist both traditional and non-traditional learners pursuing full-time undergraduate studies or technical education, particularly in medical fields or as first responders. Applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate financial need, along with active participation in extracurricular activities.

The Avis M. Wysocki Memorial Scholarship supports Central Wisconsin college students pursuing degrees in Nursing or as Physician’s Assistants. Sponsored by the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, this scholarship is available to those who have completed 25% of their coursework with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Special consideration is given to immediate family members of Wysocki Family of Companies employees, ensuring opportunities for deserving students. Award amounts range from $500 to $40,000 annually.

The Alton & Barbara McDonald Scholarship, provided by the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, offers financial support to students from Portage and Waushara counties. With awards ranging from $500 to $40,000, it is available to high school seniors and college students pursuing veterinary science at UW. Applicants must demonstrate a strong community service record, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and financial need, ensuring opportunities for deserving students in the region.

The AK Chen Memorial Scholarship Fund, administered by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, provides financial assistance to students pursuing higher education in Hawaii. Eligible applicants must be residents of Hawaii, demonstrate financial need, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to students from specific high schools and those majoring in STEM or education fields. Scholarships cover various educational expenses, ensuring support for students' academic journeys.

This competitive program seeks to encourage organizations to submit grant applications for educational activities focused on healthcare professionals involved in the management and care of people with migraine.

Individual projects requesting up to $200,000 will be considered. Maximum project length is 2 years.

The Dr. Gary Kielhofner Doctoral Research Scholarship in Occupational Therapy supports research initiatives that advance occupational therapy. It encourages doctoral candidates to explore social justice, human volition, and innovative intervention techniques. This scholarship, endowed by the American Occupational Therapy Foundation, honors Dr. Gary Kielhofner's legacy, fostering new research talent in the field. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a doctoral program, have defended their dissertation proposal, and conduct research at a U.S. institution.

The STRIDE Mentored Research Scholarship (SMRS), offered by the American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF), provides funding up to $10,000 for occupational therapy graduates and clinicians from underrepresented backgrounds to enhance their research representation. This scholarship supports participation in mentored research experiences at different institutions, focusing on building critical skills in research methods. By pairing awardees with experienced mentors, the program aims to foster diversity and inclusion within the occupational therapy field.

The Vida Wight Memorial Scholarship, established in memory of Vida Luisa Demuth Wight, supports young women pursuing higher education in fields like dance, psychology, and agriculture. This scholarship aims to honor Vida's vibrant spirit and commitment to empowerment by aiding those who demonstrate passion for their studies and a strong work ethic. Preference is given to students of color, promoting diversity and inclusion in educational opportunities.

The SJICF Scholarship supports San Juan Island residents seeking higher education through accredited institutions. This scholarship empowers eligible high school graduates and adult learners alike, promoting academic excellence and career development. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, show commitment to their studies, and participate in an interview. The funds can cover tuition, fees, and necessary materials, but cannot be used for transportation costs. This initiative transforms lives by making education accessible.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors.

Williamson Pioneer Fund

Must demonstrate community involvement and show financial need.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors.

Women’s Empowerment Scholarship Fund

Florida Resident and female high school or non-traditional students who exhibit financial need (as defined by the Foundation’s scholarship policies).

Lindsay Lloyd North Korea Freedom Scholarship

The Lindsay Lloyd North Korea Freedom Scholarship (supported by the George W. Bush Foundation) provides one or more annual scholarships for up to $10,000 to lawful permanent residents of the United States, U.S. citizens or refugees who were born in North Korea pursuing an educational program in the United States or its possessions. North Korean-born individuals pursuing a degree in accredited colleges and universities in the United States with South Korean citizenship are eligible to apply.

This scholarship may be renewed on an annual basis by completing the scholarship application in full. Renewal applications will be reviewed alongside first-time applicants.

The JUF Springboard Access Grant aims to make Jewish programming more accessible for teens in grades 8-12 in the Chicago area. This grant covers up to 50% of the tuition costs for first-time participants in multi-day programs organized by approved Jewish nonprofits. It encourages teens to engage with their community and explore new interests while ensuring financial barriers are lowered. Eligible teens are expected to share their experiences with the organization after participating.