Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Ohio

The Partnership Grants, offered by Music Movement, provide funding between $2,500 and $5,000 for eligible entities such as academies, public schools, hospitals, and non-profit organizations within the United States. Applications are reviewed semi-annually, and existing non-profits must submit their 501(c)(3) TIN. Grants can be resubmitted for reconsideration annually, but international applications are not accepted.

The ABMS Research and Education Foundation grants support innovative research aimed at enhancing healthcare quality through board certification. By encouraging collaborations among ABMS Member Boards, the program seeks original studies that inform improvements in certification processes. Proposals are reviewed based on relevance to the ABMS mission, research novelty, methods, team composition, and potential impact. Applications from diverse health organizations are welcomed, provided the principal investigator is unaffiliated with ABMS.

The Veterans United Foundation Scholarship supports the educational aspirations of military families by providing financial assistance to eligible applicants. This scholarship is open to veterans with service-related disabilities, surviving spouses, and children of deceased servicemembers. Since its inception in 2012, over $1 million has been awarded, making a significant impact on the education of those who serve our country. The application process requires proof of eligibility and documentation to ensure support for education-related expenses.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

St. Peter’s Troop 118 Scouting BSA Scholarship Fund

The St. Peter’s Troop 118 Scouting BSA Scholarship Fund provides an annual scholarship to Boy Scouts who are active in Troop 118 and plan to further their education at a local tuition-based high school in the Kansas City metropolitan area.

This is a one-time scholarship with no option for renewal.

Career Education Scholarships

Frederick County residents studying to enter career education fields may apply to receive scholarships that help pay for training at an accredited trade or technical school, certification exams, tools, and other necessary supplies for study and work in the trade.

Scholarship awards can be used for tuition/training, certification exams, tools and other necessary supplies associated with the upcoming school year. Scholarships are paid directly to a school or vendor. These are the funds that are awarding, however, only one application needs to be submitted.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to establish a fund with us. 

Townsend, R.E. Educational Scholarship

This fund was established by the trustees of the R.E. Townsend Educational Fund to provide academic scholarships to students intending to further their education.

Guidelines:

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in August.

Amount:

Minimum of $1,000 and maximum of $2,000 per recipient depending on the fund balance. 

The USF Community Impact Grant, established by USA Swimming and the USA Swimming Foundation, aims to enhance competitive opportunities in swimming clubs. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for registered USA Swimming clubs committed to fostering community engagement and collaboration. Eligible clubs can renew their grant for up to three years, promoting diverse access to swimming programs. This initiative particularly supports clubs that partner with educational or public entities and those led by women or minorities.

Our Scholarships

Since 1986, the Community Foundation has been the leading source for post-secondary scholarship funding in Frederick County, and in more recent years, has provided significant scholarship support for students in Carroll County.

Our program supports nearly every area of study imaginable, with scholarships funded by generous donors who believe in the value of education. Some donors want to support students aspiring to careers similar to theirs; other donors want to give back to the community that has generously given to them. Others wish to honor the legacies of their loved ones, both living and deceased.

Mary Alice and R. David Stup Scholarship Fund

This special fund was created through Mary Alice Stup’s estate which stated that the Community Foundation was to create a ‘second chance’ scholarship fund to uplift students who have lived-experiences of harm or past legal challenges, so they can have a second chance.

The Community Foundation partnered with the nonprofit, legal, educational, and government agency community to award this scholarship for the first time for the 2025-2026 academic year. The scholarship application will be open again in early 2026, with the scholarship monies to be used between July 1, 2026, and August 15, 2027. 

Grants Program for Penn Investigators - Early career awards for Fellows, Postdocs and Instructors

Research grant applications in basic science, prevention, disease interception, and early detection that are relevant to the study of BRCA1/2 will be considered. The Basser Cancer Interception Institute focuses on funding new endeavors in emerging, orthogonal fields beyond DNA damage (e.g. mechanisms of haploinsufficiency, cancer evolution and tissue tropism). 

Grants focused on the following are of particular interest:

• Cancer interception and the pre-cancer disease state
• Issues relevant to men (including but not limited to prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, male breast cancer)
• Potential for translation into clinical practice
• Early detection

Grants that demonstrate a potential for translation into clinical practice will be prioritized for funding.

Early career awards for Fellows, Postdocs and Instructors

Early career awards for Fellows, Postdocs and Instructors up to $100,000 for one year. Grants are eligible for competitive renewal upon reapplication and are contingent on progress the first year.

The Jack and Jill of America Foundation offers College Prep Grants aimed at enhancing college readiness for African American children. These grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to building a pipeline of talent. Eligible applicants include public agencies and organizations aligned with the Foundation's mission. The funding excludes scholarships, operational costs, and individual applicants, focusing solely on direct program implementation costs.

The Chifles Beyond the Bag Scholarship, established in 2024 by the Rivas Family, supports children of Plantain Products Company employees by providing educational assistance. Administered through the Coral Gables Community Foundation, this scholarship aims to empower students to overcome barriers and excel academically. Recipients must maintain full-time enrollment and reapply annually by April 1. With over $6.7 million awarded in the last decade, the Foundation continues to positively impact the Coral Gables community.

The Emergency Educational Grants offer vital financial support of up to $5,000 for undergraduate students who are children of deceased or totally disabled Elks. This grant is renewable for one year and is intended solely for educational purposes, helping cover costs such as tuition and books. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain full-time enrollment in an accredited U.S. college or university, while being unmarried and under 24 years old during the application year.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Medical & Health Professions Scholarship

Applicants must be pursuing a certificate or an Associate’s, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degree in medical and associated health professions.

Selection based upon (in order of priority):

• Financial need, academic ability, community and school service, and recommendations.

Awards

• Two $1,500 scholarships

The Sagol Network GerOmic Award for Junior Faculty supports early career investigators in aging research, focusing on -omics studies related to biological aging and age-related diseases. Research areas include genomics, proteomics, and interventions targeting aging. Eligible applicants are independent researchers at U.S. not-for-profit institutions, with 10 years or fewer since their postdoctoral training. The award may cover overhead costs, promoting innovative research in the vital field of gerontology.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Sidney High School Alumni Scholarship

Selection based upon:

• Financial need; academic ability; community, religious, and school service; recommendations.

Must be enrolling in a trade school or pursuing a two-year or four-year degree.

Awards

• One $2,000 scholarship

The Greater Cincinnati African American Scholarship Fund, administered by the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, offers scholarships for high school seniors in the Greater Cincinnati area. With awards ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, the program aims to support students pursuing higher education. Since its inception in 2002, it has awarded over $170,000 in scholarships, empowering local youth to achieve their academic goals and contribute positively to their communities.

Sophia Joe Scholarship Fund

Sophia Joe graduated from Capital High School in 2023 and the University of San Diego in 2026 with a degree in Marketing and a minor in International Business. During high school, she was a four-year member of the Dance Team and served as Treasurer and Vice President of the National Honor Society, completing more than 100 hours of community service. She also worked her final two years of high school at local businesses in downtown Olympia. Throughout her academic career, Sophia earned recognition on the President’s List at South Puget Sound Community College and received the Donald R. Knauss Trustee Merit Scholarship at the University of San Diego.

Sophia’s passion for travel and global learning helped shape her vision for this scholarship. While studying abroad, she worked alongside students from diverse backgrounds, deepening her appreciation for the importance of access to opportunity. As a member of a family that has been part of the Thurston County community for more than 20 years, Sophia created this fund to support local students who work hard, demonstrate leadership, and aspire to make a positive impact.

The Sophia Joe Scholarship Fund encourages graduating seniors from Thurston County who are pursuing studies in business or a related field to develop their vision for leadership and positive change, both within their community and beyond.

Applicants will be evaluated on their impact, leadership, and vision, as demonstrated by:

• Community service involvement or a commitment to helping others.
• Leadership or responsibilities outside of school, including work, volunteering, or caring for family members.
• Thoughtfulness and vision, as demonstrated by a supplemental essay responding to the question: “What community project or initiative do you think would make the biggest positive impact in Thurston County, and why?”

The Native American Church Property Grants, administered by the Presbyterian Foundation, support essential repairs and improvements to Native American church properties. This initiative is crucial for maintaining the infrastructure of churches and chapels, ensuring their safety and functionality for congregations and visitors. The program reflects the Presbyterian Church's commitment to serving Native American communities, fostering faith and ministry. Through these grants, urgent needs are addressed, strengthening the presence and mission of Native American congregations within the PC(USA).

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

Jim Freeman, MD Memorial Scholarship

A long time military man, Dr. Freeman retired as a full colonel from the Army after many years of service active duty and reserves. He was a partner at the Redding Radiological Associates during much of his reserve military career, continuing his craft as an independent contractor at several facilities until his death in 2018.

Much of his career was spent in training other physicians, a task he greatly enjoyed. He was a very strong proponent of education of all kinds and believed all should have access to the education of their choice.

The Jim Freeman, MD Scholarship was established to benefit and support Shasta County students pursuing a degree, certification, or licensing in the medical field focused on direct patient care.

The Robert E. Gross Award for Excellence in Pediatric Research and Achievement, presented by the American Pediatric Surgical Association, honors an individual whose significant contributions have transformed pediatric surgery practices. This prestigious award recognizes enduring changes in clinical management that are widely accepted by pediatric surgeons as standard. Nominations are required for this award, which showcases the commitment of APSA to advancing surgical care for children through advocacy and education.

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

Jack Schreder Scholarship Fund

The Jack Schreder Scholarship Fund honors Jack’s 65 years of work as an educator with strong interest in education, science and vocational training.

He was a graduate of Michigan State (B.A. – Economics), San Francisco State University (M.A. – School Administration) and Stanford University (Ph.D – Education and Business). He began his career as a high school teacher and coach in Michigan.

The Jack Schreder Scholarship will support scholarships to Shasta County graduating seniors pursuing Education, Science, and/or Vocational Training.

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

Gustafson Fritz Scholarship for Women

An opportunity for female high school graduates in Shasta or Trinity County who demonstrate attributes of generosity, creativity, exemplary work ethic and kindness.

Patricia “Pat” L. Gustafson was an exceptional woman. She was known for her stewardship, generosity, creativity, exemplary work ethic and kindness. Continuing the legacy gifted to her by Pat, her “daughter”, Lynn E. Fritz, the Guftason Fritz Scholarship for Women honors her by awarding support to other women demonstrating like attributes in their journey of self-discovery, empowerment, education and community service.

The Distinguished Service Award, presented by the American Pediatric Surgical Association (APSA), recognizes individuals for their lifetime commitment and significant contributions to pediatric surgery. This prestigious honor highlights a nominee's wide-ranging impact on the field and their dedication to advancing surgical care for children. Nominations are vital, as the frequency of the award is determined by the APSA Board, ensuring that exemplary service is celebrated appropriately.

The Mobile Learning Fund provides grants to adult literacy programs in the U.S. and Canada, enabling access to digital learning solutions. These grants support various online learning tools, such as New Readers Press, Learning Upgrade, and EnGen, aimed at enhancing literacy, math, and digital skills. Eligible programs must implement the solutions within 30 days and ensure active learner engagement. This initiative empowers educators to expand their reach and improve student outcomes through innovative digital resources.

The Bellevue Heights Church Foundation, established over 30 years ago, has significantly contributed to humanitarian efforts and theological education by awarding millions in grants. Its Student Endowment Fund supports Master of Divinity students with monthly scholarships, benefiting 35 to 40 students annually. All church members can participate in the Foundation's governance, and grant recipients must provide updates on their projects. Applications must be submitted in hard copy, following specific guidelines.

The Reading is Fundamental Matching Grant for Read for Success empowers local organizations to enhance literacy by providing matching funds for books and resources. Since 1966, RIF has partnered with communities to foster a culture of reading among children in need, offering diverse books that reflect their lives. This grant matches local investments dollar-for-dollar, maximizing the impact of funding for educational programs. Eligible applicants include schools and youth-serving organizations across the U.S., supporting children from birth through grade 12.

The Reading is Fundamental Matching Grant - Books for Ownership program supports local literacy initiatives by providing funding for diverse books and literacy resources. Established in 1966, RIF aims to foster a culture of literacy among children in under-resourced communities. Eligible organizations can apply for funding to double their impact through matched funds, ensuring children have access to high-quality books that reflect their experiences and broaden their perspectives.