Best Grants for New Nonprofits in North Carolina

The JDF: FIRST LEGO League Explore Grant Program, supported by the John Deere Foundation, aims to enhance participation in STEM for underserved youth. Teams must apply for the grant before registration and ensure compliance with eligibility criteria, including training requirements. This initiative is part of John Deere's commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in technology and engineering fields, ultimately seeking to impact one million youth by 2030.

The ICRG Seed Grant supports innovative research aimed at understanding and treating gambling disorders. With a focus on pilot studies, secondary data analysis, and developing new methodologies, it encourages both established and early-career researchers to apply for funding up to $40,000. The grant emphasizes the importance of addressing critical issues in gambling research while ensuring the inclusion of diverse participant groups. This initiative aims to enhance public education and promote responsible gaming practices.

The Persbacker Family Fund Scholarship, established by the Connecticut Community Foundation, is dedicated to residents of Bridgewater who have volunteered significantly in their community for over six years. This scholarship aims to support local students in achieving their college education dreams. With awards starting at $2,500, the foundation continues its legacy of fostering educational opportunities for deserving students in the Greater Waterbury and Litchfield Hills region.

The Roxbury Volunteer Fire Department Memorial Scholarship, established by the Connecticut Community Foundation, supports college-bound students from Roxbury, offering a $2000 award. This scholarship prioritizes current or former members of the Roxbury Fire Department and their descendants, promoting educational opportunities for those committed to serving their community. With a legacy dating back to 1923, the Foundation plays a vital role in enhancing the educational landscape in the Greater Waterbury and Litchfield Hills region.

The Sergeant Felix M. DelGreco, Jr. Scholarship, established by the Connecticut Community Foundation, supports students who are children of current CT Army National Guard members. As one of the largest scholarship providers in the Greater Waterbury and Litchfield Hills region, the Foundation aims to help students achieve their educational dreams through generous donor contributions. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering educational opportunities and supporting military families within the community.

Grand Traverse Regional Community FoundationThe Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.Home Builders' Association of the GT Area Scholarship Endowment (Regional)Available to residents from Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska or Leelanau Counties who are pursuing continuing education related to the home building industry.

The King-Rockwell Scholarship Renewal aims to address the diverse needs of the community through innovative funding solutions. This private foundation is dedicated to holistic support in education, arts, infrastructure, and wellness. Eligible applicants are those who have previously received the King-Rockwell Scholarship, ensuring continuity in nurturing talent and community engagement. This initiative not only provides financial assistance but also fosters awareness and collaboration for a sustainable future.

The Craft Research Fund Exhibition Grant provides up to $15,000 to support innovative exhibition research in craft scholarship across the United States. It aims to encourage critical explorations of craft theory, history, and practice, promoting new insights into American craft artists and their work. Eligible applicants include museum and gallery curators, as well as independent researchers. The program emphasizes cross-disciplinary approaches and requires financial remuneration for artists involved in funded projects.

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation, founded in 2006, is the newest community foundation in South Carolina. We have a permanent endowment to meet the changing needs of the Pee Dee.

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation improves the quality of life in our area of South Carolina through inspired philanthropy and innovative community programs. We serve Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Marion, Marlboro, and Williamsburg Counties.

Scholarships

Eastern Carolina Community Foundation partners with donors to administer 12 scholarship funds for the benefit of students in the Pee Dee. All scholarship opportunities are established through specific funds established at ECCF with criteria determined by the donor. 

The Michelle Yolanda Glenn Carey Scholarship

This fund provides a scholarship to a graduating Pee Dee area high school senior who plans to major in education and teach at the elementary level. The fund was established in memory of Michelle Yolanda Glenn Carey who dedicated twenty years to the teaching of kindergarten students at Theodore Lester Elementary School in Florence, South Carolina.

The 1772 Foundation, in collaboration with the National Preservation Partners Network, is opening its 2026 grant cycle for Historic Property Redevelopment Programs (HPRP). This initiative aims to support nonprofit organizations in the U.S. focused on historic property revitalization. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) designation and be NPPN members. Grants typically range from $50,000 to $75,000, promoting sustainable practices that address community revitalization and heritage conservation.

The ENF Community Investments Program - Freedom Grants will award $1,000 grants to 1,000 Lodges for projects focused on veterans and active-duty military families in 2025-26. Eligible projects must address five key areas: employment, homelessness, current military members and their families, health, and educational support. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of life for service members and their families, ensuring that local needs are met through community-driven efforts.

The Robert Macario Ybarra Scholarship honors a passionate athlete and Hawley High School graduate who inspired many. Established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, this scholarship aims to support students from a 19-county area who have participated in varsity sports during their junior and senior years. By alleviating financial burdens, it enables recipients to pursue their educational aspirations, ensuring that no talented athlete has to forego opportunities due to financial constraints.

The Sheriff John Middleton Memorial Scholarship, established by friends to honor Sheriff John Middleton, offers financial support to employees or dependents of Taylor County law enforcement agencies. The Community Foundation of Abilene administers this scholarship, which awards between $500 and $5,000. Payments are made directly to educational institutions each semester. This scholarship reflects the values of dedication and integrity embodied by Sheriff Middleton, who served the community with distinction.

The CFGC: Next Generation Fund Grant, established by the Gaston Community Foundation, supports charitable initiatives primarily in Gaston County. Since 2000, it has awarded over $193,000 to local nonprofits focused on children's welfare, environmental improvements, and crisis relief. In 2023, the fund emphasizes Health and Wellness, encouraging collaboration among organizations to maximize community impact. This grant fosters grassroots support and sustainable projects, ensuring that resources are used effectively to benefit the county's residents.

The Tony Daniel Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports students from various high schools, including Coleman and Santa Anna. This scholarship honors Anthoney 'Tony' Daniel, a dedicated educator and FCA advocate, who inspired many during his life. Award amounts range from $500 to over $5,000, with payments sent directly to educational institutions for the fall and spring semesters, aiding students in their pursuit of education.

The NDEP STEM Open NFO invites innovative proposals for research and implementation of effective STEM education and outreach programs. This continuously open announcement from the Department of Defense encourages submissions that align with key initiatives, including support for community colleges and strategic partnerships. As funding becomes available, amendments detailing specific topics and submission guidelines will be released. Applicants must submit white papers to express interest in full applications for potential funding consideration.

Brown County Community Foundation

BCCF operates as a 501 (c)(3) corporation. It professionally manages and distributes income from charitable bequests consistent with the donor’s wishes and interests. In other words, BCCF manages charitable funds, making grants to local, nonprofit organizations based on advice from donors. Donors can specify a specific organization or a general area of concern within the community to which their gift be directed.

Scholarships

The Foundation manages several academic scholarship funds, many established expressly for Brown County High School graduates. 

Additionally, through the Foundation’s affiliation with The Lilly Endowment Inc., over forty Brown County residents have received four-year full-tuition scholarships through the Endowment’s Community Scholars Program.

BCCF Scholarships are available to current high school graduates, students currently enrolled in college, past graduates planning to enroll, as well as G.E.D. graduates.

P.E.O Chapter CU Scholarship

Purpose

To provide a scholarship to a female Brown County resident who is graduating from high school or completing a G.E.D. and will be attending an accredited post-secondary educational institution in the U.S. or Canada, full-time or part-time, in the fall of the academic year following high school graduation.

Awards winners are chosen by P.E.O using the application process.

The Creative Economy Fund offers vital support to digital creators and entertainment professionals affected by the LA Wildfires. Catering to individuals in film, music, and performing arts, this fund provides assistance for those who have experienced home loss or damage. Eligible applicants include direct creators, employees of talent agencies, and other creative professionals, ensuring a broad reach within the entertainment community. With a focus on personalized resources and guidance, the fund aims to foster resilience in a challenging industry.

Brown County Community Foundation

BCCF operates as a 501 (c)(3) corporation. It professionally manages and distributes income from charitable bequests consistent with the donor’s wishes and interests. In other words, BCCF manages charitable funds, making grants to local, nonprofit organizations based on advice from donors. Donors can specify a specific organization or a general area of concern within the community to which their gift be directed.

Scholarships

The Foundation manages several academic scholarship funds, many established expressly for Brown County High School graduates. 

Additionally, through the Foundation’s affiliation with The Lilly Endowment Inc., over forty Brown County residents have received four-year full-tuition scholarships through the Endowment’s Community Scholars Program.

BCCF Scholarships are available to current high school graduates, students currently enrolled in college, past graduates planning to enroll, as well as G.E.D. graduates.

Shaffer Family Scholarship

Purpose

To provide educational scholarships for students who are accepted into and attending accredited two or four year public or private intuitions of higher learning.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Altrusa Club of Marion Scholarship I

The Altrusa Club of Marion Scholarship Fund I was established in memory of Lynda L. Williams, Ruth Kramer, and Clara J Walters. It supports life-long Marion County students pursuing higher education.

The John F. O'Brien, Jr. Scholarship, established in memory of a World War II veteran, supports students from Southeastern Connecticut pursuing a healthcare degree and facing financial need. Since its inception in 1983, the Community Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to help students achieve their educational goals. With an approximate award of $500, this scholarship ensures that deserving students can access the necessary resources for their college education.

About the Community Foundation

Our mission:

To inspire people and communities to build and distribute charitable funds for good, for Adams County, for ever.

Our vision:

To be a leading resource in promoting philanthropy among people of all means who wish to make a lasting and meaningful contribution to Adams County, and creating opportunities to develop and strengthen our communities.

Dr. Charles H. Glatfelter Scholarship Application

For any descendant of Casper Glattfelder who was the first of his family to arrive in the United States in 1743. Students are not required to be residents of Adams County, Pennsylvania. This award is open to all descendants nation wide.

The Bridget McCabe Memorial Scholarship, funded by the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, aims to support students at any life stage who demonstrate a passion for learning. With an annual award of up to $1,000, this non-renewable scholarship encourages applicants with a minimum 2.5 GPA who have graduated from a high school in Southern Arizona. The initiative reflects a commitment to nurturing future leaders and ensuring access to education for deserving students.

The Mary Clutter Leadership in Science Public Service Award, established by the American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB), honors individuals who significantly contribute to plant science and public policy leadership. Renamed in 2019, this award recognizes efforts that advance ASPB's mission, encouraging diverse contributions to the field. Recipients, who may not be plant scientists themselves, are invited to address the Society at its annual meeting, highlighting their achievements and the importance of their work in the broader scientific community.

The Rosa Louise Parks Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, aims to support students in financial need who demonstrate the potential for academic success. This unique scholarship, named after the civil rights icon, is dedicated to high school graduates from Southern Arizona, ensuring that they have the necessary resources to pursue higher education and become future leaders. It exemplifies the Foundation's commitment to fostering educational aspirations within the community.

The John Ostrom Enders II Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, awards $4,000 to graduating seniors from East Lyme, New London, or Waterford High School. This scholarship supports students with a strong commitment to the creative arts and community service. Since 1983, the Foundation has distributed over $11.9 million in scholarships, helping students pursue higher education and rewarding careers.

The John T. Savage Memorial Scholarship, established in memory of a dedicated agriculturalist and public servant, supports students from Brooklyn, Eastford, Pomfret, Union, and Woodstock. With an award of $1,500, this scholarship aims to assist those pursuing education in politics or agriculture. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has provided over $11.9 million in scholarships, reinforcing its commitment to local education and community development.