Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in North Carolina

The Elvira A. Davis Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, offers renewable financial support to residents of Denmark, Maine, who are pursuing a college or university education or equivalent post-secondary studies. Founded in 1983, the Maine Community Foundation focuses on strategic giving and community leadership, aiming to strengthen local initiatives and empower individuals through education. This scholarship helps ensure that residents can achieve their academic goals and contribute positively to their community.

Each year, Innovia awards over $400,000 in scholarships to deserving students like you who are college-bound or pursuing vocational or technical training. Single scholarship awards range between $500 and $4,000.

Denny and Thelma Yasuhara Scholarship

Applicants must be high school seniors or graduates from the Inland Northwest who demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture and must be good citizens.

The scholarship committee will consider the applicant’s experience participating in school or community activities and job or volunteer activities, as well as his or her commitment to academic excellence and financial need. Previous recipients of this award are eligible to reapply.

The Maude MacKenzie Scholarship, offered by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs in Maine, provides $1,000 annually to a deserving student who has graduated from an accredited high school in Maine, demonstrating academic achievement, leadership, and community service. Applicants must be residents of Maine and accepted into a college or university. This scholarship aims to support students in their pursuit of higher education while promoting the values of commitment and service within the community.

The AJO Forever Scholarship, awarded by the Erie Community Foundation, supports well-rounded high school students who engage in various activities, including community service and part-time work. Applicants must plan to pursue a nursing degree and submit an essay detailing their motivations, along with a letter of recommendation. In 2023, the foundation allocated over $800,000 in scholarships to help more than 500 deserving students achieve their educational goals.

The Tom Roberts Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, supports high school seniors actively participating in baseball or softball with two annual scholarships. Honoring Tom Roberts' 40-year commitment to youth sports, applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.25 and plan to pursue post-secondary education or training. In 2023, over $800,000 in scholarships were awarded to deserving students, highlighting the foundation's dedication to fostering educational opportunities.

The Kiley Marschand 4-H Scholarship, funded by the Hamilton County Community Foundation, supports Cass, Fulton, Hamilton, Howard, and Tipton County residents pursuing education at Indiana institutions. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate dedication through at least three years in 4-H, showcasing a strong work ethic and commitment to community service. This scholarship honors Kiley's legacy and encourages young leaders to thrive in their educational endeavors.

The Paul & Barbara Bond College Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Erie City’s Public schools. Eligible students must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree in any field. In 2023, the foundation awarded over $800,000 in scholarships to more than 500 deserving students, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the community.

The ASH Medical Educators Institute Grant Program aims to cultivate future leaders in hematology education through a comprehensive training initiative. This program includes workshops, webinars, and mentorship, designed for junior faculty and senior fellows in the U.S. and Canada. Participants enhance their teaching skills, develop scholarly projects, and build valuable professional networks. The initiative promotes diversity in medical education and seeks to empower educators dedicated to advancing the field of hematology.

The Woodstock Lions Club Scholarship, funded by The Community Foundation for McHenry County, offers financial assistance to students from the District 200 area in Woodstock, Illinois. This scholarship supports those pursuing four-year degrees, two-year associate degrees, or vocational certificates. Eligibility includes maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrating community involvement. Preference is given to students with financial need, reinforcing the foundation's commitment to educational support and community growth.

The AAUW Community Action Grants provide up to $75,000 to support nonprofits and educational institutions that empower girls in grades K–12 to succeed in STEM fields. By fostering hands-on learning, mentorship, and family involvement, these grants aim to build confidence and skills among girls, especially those from underrepresented communities. AAUW believes that immersive STEM environments and relatable role models can inspire lasting interest and help close the gender gap in leadership and careers.

The Gil and Kay Sparks Scholarship, established in 2020 by friends of the couple, honors their contributions to the Wenatchee Valley community. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from Westside High School or similar non-traditional schools in Chelan, Douglas, or Okanogan counties, aiming to aid students pursuing further education. Recipients should demonstrate resilience in overcoming life challenges, reflecting the legacy of Gil and Kay, who exemplified community building with humility.

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 VAC Veterans Memorial Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation for McHenry County, provides financial assistance to children and grandchildren of active-duty military personnel and honorably discharged veterans. Applicants must be Illinois high school graduates with a minimum 2.5 GPA and provide proof of military connection. This scholarship not only supports educational pursuits but also honors the legacy of service to the country, fostering the next generation of leaders and scholars.

The Corey C. Griffin Scholarship, offered by the Yellowstone Club Community Foundation, awards two $5,000 scholarships to high school seniors. This initiative honors Corey C. Griffin’s legacy by recognizing students who embody his 'never quit' attitude and commitment to community service. Eligible applicants must attend specific high schools and have applied to a post-secondary institution. Note that children of Yellowstone Club employees at the Director level are not eligible for this merit-based scholarship.

The Preserving Black Churches Grant Program, managed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, aims to support the preservation of historic Black churches. Grants range from $50,000 to $500,000 and fund various projects, including restoration, capacity building, and community engagement. The program encourages applications from active and non-active congregations, nonprofits, and public agencies, emphasizing the importance of these churches in their communities. This initiative seeks to strengthen heritage and foster cultural connections.

The NIH Blueprint and BRAIN Initiative Diversity Specialized Predoctoral to Postdoctoral Advancement in Neuroscience (D-SPAN) Award aims to support underrepresented graduate students in neuroscience. This two-phase program facilitates the completion of doctoral dissertations and transitions students to postdoctoral positions, enhancing their career development and fostering their growth into independent neuroscience researchers. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant's organization.

The Jennifer Samson Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by The Community Foundation for McHenry County, honors the memory of a talented artist and advocate. It provides annual awards to graduating high school students in McHenry County who have actively participated in musical theater. This scholarship not only supports educational pursuits but also continues Jenn's legacy of love for the arts and her commitment to equal rights and community service. Applicants must demonstrate involvement in musical theater during their high school years.

The Jake Arndt Memorial Scholarship, managed by The Community Foundation for McHenry County, supports students dedicated to the Woodstock community pursuing higher education. This scholarship honors Jake Arndt, a beloved individual known for his kindness and community involvement. Applicants must demonstrate community engagement and may receive preference if they have athletic backgrounds or financial need. In total, CFMC allocates $50,000 annually in scholarships to empower local students in their educational pursuits.

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

The Crooked Stick Endowed Scholarship, established by Crooked Stick Golf Club, aims to support students from Central Indiana pursuing post-secondary education with a strong interest in golf. Funded by the Hamilton County Community Foundation, this scholarship emphasizes academic promise, character, and financial need, ensuring that recipients are well-rounded individuals dedicated to their education and the sport they love. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering talent in the golfing community.

The Cooney Scholarship, established by Melissa Cooney through the Community Foundation for McHenry County, honors her parents' values of community service. It supports students from Woodstock, Illinois, who have demonstrated involvement with local nonprofit organizations. This scholarship aims to empower those who embody a spirit of giving back, offering financial assistance to further their education and strengthen their commitment to community service.

About

The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region is an independent, public charity established in September 1996 by a steering committee of local civic leaders to gather permanent funds to support our area.

The Foundation’s service area now includes Danville, Pittsylvania and Halifax counties in Virginia as well as Caswell County, NC.

Scholarship Information

Currently, The Community Foundation administers 75 separate endowed scholarship funds. Established by individuals or organizations, these funds help area students achieve their academic and career-oriented goals.

Scholarships through the Community Foundation support individuals of all ages who reside within the Dan River Region – Danville, VA; Pittsylvania and Halifax counties, VA; and Caswell County, NC. In 2025, we awarded more than $370,000 to 152 students.

Addison Singh Scholarship

Open applications for students pursuing the field of sonography, or the field of radiology.

The PSN Labs Scholarship, awarded by the Erie Community Foundation, supports seniors from Erie County schools who have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and are accepted into accredited four-year colleges. In 2023, the foundation allocated over $800,000 in scholarships to more than 500 students, helping them pursue their educational goals. This need-based scholarship aims to alleviate financial burdens and promote higher education among deserving students.

About

The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region is an independent, public charity established in September 1996 by a steering committee of local civic leaders to gather permanent funds to support our area.

The Foundation’s service area now includes Danville, Pittsylvania and Halifax counties in Virginia as well as Caswell County, NC.

Scholarship Information

Currently, The Community Foundation administers 75 separate endowed scholarship funds. Established by individuals or organizations, these funds help area students achieve their academic and career-oriented goals.

Scholarships through the Community Foundation support individuals of all ages who reside within the Dan River Region – Danville, VA; Pittsylvania and Halifax counties, VA; and Caswell County, NC. In 2025, we awarded more than $370,000 to 152 students.

Bennett-Bushnell-Jones-Kaufman Scholarship

Open applications to students enrolled in the Nursing Program at Averett University or Danville Community College and who maintain a 3.0 GPA. Preference will be given to RN students; however, if none are eligible, LPN students will be considered.

The Katharine & Bryant Mather Scholarship, established in 1988 by the ACI Foundation, honors the Mathers' contributions to concrete knowledge. This scholarship provides $5,000 for graduate studies in concrete-related fields, alongside recognition in Concrete International magazine. ACI Foundation, a non-profit supporting education and innovation in the concrete industry, ensures funding for students worldwide, fostering the next generation of leaders in this vital sector.

The Miller Family Scholarship offers financial assistance to graduating seniors from the North East, PA school district or residents of North East. This renewable scholarship is aimed at students pursuing college, university, or vocational education, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. It supports local talent and encourages higher education in the community.

The ASH Medical Student Physician-Scientist Award offers first-, second-, and third-year medical students a unique chance to engage in hematology research under the mentorship of an ASH member. This year-long project requires recipients to dedicate over 80% of their time to research, with funding totaling $42,000 for various expenses. Eligible candidates must be ASH members and actively enrolled in accredited medical programs in the U.S. or Canada, aiming for a career in hematology.