Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in North Carolina

The Educational Theatre Foundation (EdTA) offers the Thespian Growth & Excellence Grants to support production expenses for school theatre programs. Grants of up to $1,000 can cover essential costs such as licensing fees, rentals, sets, and costumes. With a commitment to enhancing educational theatre, EdTA prioritizes applications based on demonstrated need, particularly for Title 1 schools, helping to foster creativity and collaboration in diverse educational settings.

The Comprehensive Housing Counseling (CHC) and Housing Counseling Training (HCT) NOFO (FY2026) aims to support HUD-approved housing counseling agencies. These agencies provide essential guidance to tenants and homeowners regarding property maintenance, financial management, and literacy. This initiative plays a crucial role in helping individuals secure sustainable homeownership or affordable rentals, while also serving as a safeguard against housing scams and discrimination, connecting clients to various housing resources.

The Creative Capital Award, established in 1999, provides unrestricted project grants ranging from $15,000 to $50,000 for innovative artistic works in various disciplines. It supports artists in visual arts, performing arts, film, and literature through a democratic, open-call process. Awardees receive professional development resources and mentorship over a five-year relationship. Additionally, recipients are automatically considered for the State of the Art Prize, which offers a $10,000 grant to one artist from each U.S. state.

The EdTA Thespian Growth & Excellence Grants support theatre programs by providing financial assistance for troupe expenses, including travel to professional productions and participation in state conferences. Founded by the Educational Theatre Foundation, these grants aim to enhance educational theatre access and representation. By the end of 2024, 349 grants totaling over $286,000 will have been awarded, benefiting schools with Title 1 designations and empowering students and educators in their creative pursuits.

The Hershey Heartwarming Young Heroes GYSD Grant supports youth-led projects for Youth Service Month and Global Youth Service Day. Open to U.S. and Canadian youth aged 5-25, grants of $250 or $500 are available, depending on volunteer engagement. Projects should address community needs and foster inclusivity among diverse youth volunteers. Successful applications will partner with local organizations and focus on relationship-building. A total of $50,000 in grants will be awarded, encouraging meaningful community service.

The John W. Work III Memorial Foundation Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors the legacy of an inspiring educator and composer. This scholarship supports undergraduate juniors, seniors, or graduate students, particularly African American, pursuing a degree in music. Applicants must maintain a B average and demonstrate musical potential. The fund aims to foster excellence in music education and ensure future generations benefit from John W. Work's impactful contributions.

Building a global community of creative problem solvers, effective collaborators, and empathetic individuals through theatre

Our Mission and Goals

The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF) is the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association (EdTA).

ETF advances the field of educational theatre by broadening representation and increasing access for all. ETF’s programs aim to support students, educators and the field at large by realizing three strategic goals:

• Subsidizing new, emerging, and underserved student theatre programs;
• Creating paths for theatre educators to develop new skills; and
• Commissioning research to showcase the value of a theatre education.

Educator & Program Grants

Giving school theatre programs a boost

The Thespian Growth & Excellence Fund is committed to supporting the ongoing development of theatre programs and the pursuit of excellence for educators, students, schools, and communities by offering a number of grants that assist in EdTA membership, teacher support, and programmatic resources for theatre in schools.

By the end of 2024, the Thespian Growth and Excellence Fund has awarded 349 grants to 276 schools, totaling $286,167 in assistance provided to school theatre programs, many at schools with Title 1 designations.

Equipment Upgrade (up to $5,000)

Can be awarded to help school theatre programs with large technical purchases that upgrade the resources available for theatrical use, such as lighting and sound equipment.

The NIH Blueprint for Neuroscience Research Network aims to enhance foundational research on human consciousness, addressing critical biomedical issues such as coma and dementia. By fostering a collaborative framework among 14 NIH institutes, the initiative seeks to improve diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders through interdisciplinary approaches. Key objectives include detecting consciousness in minimally responsive patients, enhancing understanding of sleep disorders, and exploring new methodologies. This effort will ultimately strengthen U.S. leadership in neuroscience and improve patient outcomes.

Dick & Judy Hoyt Inclusion Grant

The Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism is excited to collaborate with the Hoyt Foundation for the Dick and Judy Hoyt Grant for Inclusion. Our joint effort is driven by a shared vision of fostering a society where individuals with autism and other disabilities are embraced and valued within their communities. In tribute to the pioneering spirit of Dick and Judy Hoyt, we will be distributing $50,000 through this community grant to support people with autism and other disabilities. Successful ways grant funds can be used: 

• Side-by-side participation with non-disabled peers in a swim program, the grant provides a private lifeguard to allow individualized support to ensure an inclusive experience.
• Grant provides the purchase of a racing chair to allow an individual with a disability to run in races with non-disabled peers.
• Competitive horseback riding supported by the grant to purchase specialized equipment to allow a rider to compete against non-disabled peers.
• Grant provides the purchase of an adaptive ski prosthetic to allow an individual to participate side by side with non-disabled peers on their high school ski teams.
• Participation in dance training and competitions to allow a student with a disability to compete in a dance competition with non-disabled peers, grant lessons, and staff to assist in dance training.
• Grant provides a mobile stand to allow a student with a disability to participate side by side with non-disabled peers in the college marching band. 

The Howard Mayer Brown Fellowship, administered by the American Musicological Society, supports graduate students from historically underrepresented groups at U.S. or Canadian universities. Established to enhance diversity in musicology, it offers a $25,000 stipend for one year of full-time study. Applicants are expected to have completed at least one year of graduate work and demonstrate academic excellence. The fellowship encourages institutions to provide additional financial support, fostering a vibrant academic community.

FY25 Veterans Treatment Court Program

Executive Summary

This NOFO will support the implementation and enhancement of veterans treatment court (VTC) operations. VTCs connect veterans who come in contact with the justice system to treatment for substance use disorders (SUD), mental health disorders (MHD), co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders (MHSUD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Funding supports service coordination, and recovery support services. VTCs integrate mandatory drug testing, incentives and sanctions, and transitional services in judicially supervised criminal court settings that have jurisdiction over veterans with behavioral health treatment needs. These courts aim to reduce recidivism and overdose fatalities, while increasing access to treatment and recovery support that leads to long-term recovery.

Category 3 supports state applicants to improve, enhance, or expand VTC services statewide. Activities include expanding treatment and services; audits of program policies and procedures; and data collection and analysis to assess program practices and track recidivism. These are intended to be one-time projects to enhance capacity that can be sustained.

Program Description

Statewide grants are available to state applicants to improve, enhance, or expand veterans treatment court services statewide. Activities include expanding treatment and services; reviewing programs’ policies and procedures; and data collection and analysis to assess program practices and track recidivism. This could include training to address staff turnover and offer operational skills updates and to expand treatment resources in locations with critical substance use needs. These are intended to be one-time projects to enhance capacity that can be sustained

Dr. Barry T. Katzen Master Clinician Award

Honors an interventional radiologist who exemplifies dedication to clinical practice, patient care, diligence in their work and continuous improvement within the field and who has also made a demonstrable impact at their institution or practice as a result.

About

The Dr. Barry T. Katzen Master Clinician Award seeks to honor an interventional radiologist who exemplifies dedication to clinical practice, patient care, diligence in their work and continuous improvement within the field as well as who has made a demonstrable impact at their institution or practice as a result. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to enhancing patient outcomes and advancing the reputation and practice of interventional radiology through their hard work, commitment and, most importantly, clinical practice. The award is being given in the name of Barry T. Katzen, MD, FSIR, who pioneered clinical practice for IR in 1976 and became a vocal advocate, champion and example for colleagues of the importance of IR being a clinical discipline for advancement of the specialty.

The recipient will receive:

• Complimentary annual meeting registration
• Recognition during the SIR Annual Scientific Meeting

The Dementia Care and Brain Degenerative Diseases Grant, offered by the Sephardic Home For The Aged Foundation, aims to support innovative projects enhancing care and quality of life for older adults affected by dementia. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)3 nonprofits in operation for at least two years. The Foundation prioritizes proposals focusing on dementia care, promoting collaboration and resource access for aging individuals. Interested applicants should submit a Letter of Inquiry through the online application system.

The Intervention Research to Improve Native American Health initiative aims to enhance health outcomes in Native American communities through innovative research. This program supports studies focused on health promotion, disease prevention, and culturally informed treatment strategies. Key deadlines for grant applications are October 21, 2025, and January 7, 2026. By addressing health disparities and leveraging community strengths, the initiative fosters sustainable interventions tailored to specific cultural contexts.

The Intervention Research to Improve Native American Health (R34) aims to support research that enhances health interventions for Native American populations. This includes studying the efficacy of health promotion and disease prevention strategies, culturally informed treatments, and addressing existing health disparities. The initiative encourages community-based solutions that are sustainable and adaptable to various Native American tribes. Key deadlines for grant applications are set for October 2025 and 2026, with additional dates for AIDS-related proposals.

The Nicholas B. Ottaway Foundation's Community Impact Fund Grants aim to enhance community well-being by supporting 501(c)(3) organizations focused on underrepresented populations. Grants range from $3,000 to $20,000 and are intended for projects in areas like disaster relief and sexual health. First-time applicants must submit a letter of intent before applying. The foundation prioritizes projects in regions where its members live and work, ensuring local engagement and impact.

Elias Eade Jr. Scholarship

This scholarship was created in honor and memory of Elias Eade Jr. by his children. Elias Eade Jr. was a lifetime resident of Olean who faithfully served God, his country, his family and the Olean community. Mr. Eade was a graduate of Olean High School and St. Bonaventure University and a member of the Olean business community for many years. Mr. Eade was an entrepreneur, leader and a man of great strength and integrity with an unprecedented work ethic. Candidates must be a graduating senior of a high school in Cattaraugus County with good academic standing and leadership skills and who plan to continue their education at a trade school or 2- or 4-year college or university. Candidates must answer an essay prompt of their choice from the three prompts provided by the fund advisors.

The Lawren H. Daltroy Preceptorship in Health Communication aims to enhance patient-clinician communication by providing a one-on-one learning experience for trainees and junior researchers. Funded by the Rheumatology Research Foundation, it offers up to $15,000 over one year for eligible candidates with no prior R01 funding. The program focuses on projects that improve understanding of effective communication in healthcare settings, addressing critical issues such as health literacy and shared decision-making.

The NRF Foundation Rising Stars Scholarship aims to inspire high school students to explore diverse career paths in the retail industry. By encouraging early participation in the NRF Foundation Student Program, the scholarship allows nominated freshmen and sophomores to gain invaluable insights. Eligible students, nominated by university members, receive a $1,000 travel stipend for the program held in New York City from January 8-11, 2026, fostering their academic and professional growth.

The Mitchell Patrick Mielnik Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, honors the legacy of Mitchell Mielnik, a passionate hockey player who exemplified integrity. This scholarship supports scholastic hockey players demonstrating excellence in athletics and academics. By fostering Mitchell's spirit of generosity, the foundation aims to empower young athletes to excel in their personal and professional lives, ensuring a positive impact on the community for years to come.

The Grief Reach Grants: Community Education Cycle, funded by the National Alliance for Children's Grief (NACG), aims to empower organizations that support grieving youth. With $10,000 grants available, the initiative enhances access to essential bereavement resources and education, addressing the needs of children coping with loss. This program is crucial as 1 in 12 children will experience the death of a loved one by age 18, highlighting the urgent need for support in diverse communities.

The Henrietta Hutton Research Grant, established in 1964 in memory of a notable University of Oxford student, provides up to three grants of £500 each year. This grant supports undergraduate and Masters students conducting overseas field research lasting over four weeks. Emphasis is placed on independent projects that may not be related to academic studies, with a preference for research that includes geographical, social, or environmental elements.

The ENF Community Investments Program offers Gratitude Grants between $3,000 and $5,000 to Elks Lodges that have met the GER’s per-member-giving goal. These grants empower Lodges to enhance community service and foster local engagement, supporting initiatives that promote health, education, and welfare. The program exemplifies the Elks' commitment to charity and community improvement, showcasing their dedication to building stronger neighborhoods and helping those in need.

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.

Jean M. Brown Nursing Scholarship Fund 

Jean M. Brown graduated from the St. Francis School of Nursing in 1938. She went on to become Caterpillar’s first Industrial Nurse, a role she deeply valued. Inspired by her career, she wanted to help others pursue nursing as well.

Through her will, Ms. Brown established an endowed scholarship to support nursing students with financial need, with preference given to those pursuing a career in Occupational Nursing. The scholarship fund was created following her passing in October 2000.

The San Antonio Association of Hispanic Journalists Scholarship Fund, administered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in Journalism or Communications. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and college students from specific Texas counties or those attending schools in San Antonio. The scholarship aims to foster educational opportunities and promote diversity in media, helping students achieve their career goals in the communications field.

The Jazz Road Creative Residencies Grant Program, initiated by South Arts, supports professional jazz artists in the U.S. by removing financial barriers to their creative practices. This initiative aims to enhance artistic growth through flexible residency activities, fostering community engagement and innovative collaborations. By providing crucial funding, it encourages artists to explore new creative visions, connect with diverse audiences, and build meaningful partnerships across the country, thereby enriching the jazz landscape.

The SRVH Scholarship Fund, established by Sherrard Roe Voigt & Harbison in 1981, supports local students pursuing higher education. This initiative, commemorating the firm's 40th anniversary, aims to promote equity by offering critical financial assistance to those enrolled in technical schools, community colleges, or universities. With a focus on students interested in legal careers, the fund seeks to strengthen community ties and foster the next generation of professionals in the Nashville area.