Best Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Oklahoma

The Retirement Research Foundation (RRF) offers Professional Education & Training Grants aimed at enhancing the skills of professionals serving older adults (60+). The foundation focuses on projects with significant national or regional impact, particularly those addressing the needs of historically marginalized groups, including people of color and LGBTQ individuals. RRF seeks to foster a well-trained workforce capable of meeting the increasing demands of an aging population, thereby improving the quality of life for older Americans.

The Cooley, Dearing And Rinker Foundation Scholarship, managed by the Northern Piedmont Community Foundation, supports graduates from public schools in Winchester, Frederick, Rappahannock, and Warren Counties. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and show commitment to their college education. Award amounts typically range from $1,000 to $5,000, helping students pursue their academic goals. The foundation has a strong history of addressing community needs since its establishment in 2000.

About

What is FOXG1 Syndrome?

FOXG1 syndrome is a rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a mutation in the FOXG1 gene. FOXG1 gene is one of the first and most important genes for early brain development and when impaired, causes developmental disabilities as well as medical complexities, including epilepsy.

Every child born with FOXG1 syndrome is unique as FOXG1 manifests as a spectrum where symptoms and severity vary between individuals. Our patient data shows characteristics of children with FOXG1 syndrome include: non-speaking, non-ambulatory, experience seizures, feeding problems, cortical vision impairment, movement disorders, and developmental delays. Less-severely-affected FOXG1 children often present with (ASD) Autism Spectrum Disorder as FOXG1 is an autism related gene. FOXG1 syndrome is found equally among both females and males and is geographically more prevalent where diagnostic testing is more advanced. 

Our Story & Mission

When our children were diagnosed with FOXG1 syndrome, we were told there was nothing we could do. No treatments, no concerted research underway, no roadmap. Just a devastating diagnosis for a disorder few had ever heard of.

But we refused to accept that. 

Research Assets & Grants

FOXG1 Scientific Research Project Grants

The FOXG1 Research Foundation is providing grants to scientists to deepen the understanding of the biology of FOXG1 with the goal of identifying innovative therapeutic strategies and finding a cure.

For the next few years, these are the strategic focus areas:

• Experiments designed to understand when, where, and levels of FOXG1 needed for normal brain development in mice
• Experiments designed to understand the biophysical properties of FOXG1 mutations
• Experiments designed to gain insights into the molecular and cell biological pathways regulated by FOXG1  

Retina Research Foundation

Across the nation, there were only a handful of voluntary groups with the will and the means to tackle retinal disdorders. Retina Research Foundation, established in 1969, was one of those organizations. By the 1980s, RRF had become a voice for retina research in an effort to reduce the incidence of retinal disease, which was fast becoming the leading cause of blindness in developing countries.

Undaunted, the Foundation steadily raised funds each year for vision scientists who were nationally recognized for their work in retina research. Government funding for eye research increased dramatically, and the field of retina research matured. As this body of knowledge grew, RRF programs were expanded to include major awards that recognize established retina scientists and contribute to their ongoing research. The Foundation also developed scientific exchange programs to disseminate knowledge of the dramatic advances that were being made in the laboratory.

RRF Pilot Study Grants

The mission of the Retina Research Foundation is to reduce retinal blindness worldwide by funding programs in research and education. As a public charity, RRF raises funds from the private sector and the investment of its endowment funds.

RRF is currently welcoming pilot study grant applications for the 2027 grant period. Each grant application must be signed by the principal investigator and either their Department Chair or Dean of Research.

The Raymond and Mary Jane Barry Educational Scholarship Fund, established by the Saginaw Community Foundation, aims to support students from Saginaw County pursuing careers in technical fields. With awards ranging from $500 to $4,000, this fund honors the Barrys' commitment to education and community service. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum 2.7 GPA and demonstrate enrollment in a Career and Technical Education program or an undergraduate degree. This scholarship encourages students to overcome challenges with humor and determination.

The Plant Genome Research Program (PGRP) focuses on genome-scale research to tackle vital biological, societal, and economic challenges. It promotes innovative tools and resources for the plant research community to explore significant scientific questions. The program emphasizes high-impact data accessibility and integration while supporting training and career development. PGRP offers two funding tracks: the Research-PGR Track for fundamental biological inquiries and the TRTech-PGR Track for advancements in functional plant genomics.

The Rev. Dr. Roosevelt and Dr. Nurame Austin, Sr. Scholarship, established by the Saginaw Community Foundation, honors Pastor Roosevelt Austin's dedication to his church and community. This scholarship supports graduating high school seniors from Saginaw County pursuing undergraduate degrees or Career and Technical Education (CTE) training. With awards ranging from $500 to $4,000, it fosters educational opportunities for students in skilled trades, reflecting Pastor Austin's belief in the power of education.

The Technical Assistance and Training Grant Program by the USDA's Rural Utilities Service provides funding for essential technical assistance and training aimed at resolving water and waste management issues. This program supports applicants in preparing loan and grant applications, enhancing the operational efficiency of water systems, and ensuring compliance with best practices in facility management. However, grant funds cannot be used for duplicating existing services or for capital expenditures.

The Hasting Innovation Award for Interstitial Lung Disease, offered by the American Lung Association, provides $75,000 annually for up to two years to support early-career researchers. This award targets investigators with proven excellence and a track record of accomplishment, aiming to advance lung disease science. Successful candidates must have held a K or R type award within the last three to five years, fostering innovation and discovery in lung health.

The Greater Tindall Neighborhood Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, aims to support residents of Tindall Heights pursuing post-secondary education. It offers $2,000 per recipient, renewable for up to four years. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA, and enroll full-time at an accredited institution. The scholarship fosters educational growth and community development, ensuring that residents have the necessary resources to succeed in their academic endeavors.

The Lung Cancer Discovery Award, offered by the American Lung Association, supports innovative research aimed at improving outcomes for lung cancer patients. With funding of $100,000 per year for up to two years, this award encourages groundbreaking projects that enhance diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, investigate genetic forms of lung cancer, and develop novel screening methods. The initiative is a vital step towards reducing lung cancer morbidity and mortality, ultimately improving patient care and saving lives.

The Gladys Lasky Endowment Fund Ballet Scholarship, established in 2000 by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, aims to support ballet students in Georgia by providing funding for classical ballet instruction or summer intensives. Each year, one scholarship is awarded to a deserving student, prioritizing those with financial need and ties to Central Georgia. Recipients are selected based on recommendations, potential for success, and years of formal dance training.

The American Society for Theatre Research (ASTR) Sally Banes Publication Prize celebrates outstanding publications that explore the relationship between theatre and dance. This award alternates between recognizing books and essays based on even and odd years, respectively. Eligible works must have been published within the last two years. The award includes a $500 prize and free conference registration, encouraging scholarly contributions to the field.

The SAA Shakespeare Publics Award, presented by the Shakespeare Association of America, celebrates innovative efforts that engage diverse publics with Shakespeare's works. Open to SAA members, the award recognizes projects that promote teaching, scholarship, performance, and activism. Since its inception in 1972, the SAA has fostered dialogue and collaboration among scholars, enhancing the appreciation of Shakespeare's impact on culture. This award highlights the importance of broadening access to Shakespeare's legacy in today's society.

The Biocodex Microbiota Foundation invites early career researchers in the microbiome field from U.S. institutions to apply for the 2024 grant. This initiative focuses on groundbreaking research into gut microbiota's role in human health and disease, particularly in areas like circadian rhythms and metabolic disorders. The grant supports operational costs, allowing for innovative projects aimed at fostering independent research careers in microbiota studies.

The Benton Community Foundation will be awarding over $132,330 this year in scholarships to graduating high school seniors from Benton County high schools.

Ruth & Julian Adams Memorial Scholarship

Ruth died in 1983, and Julian died in 2002. Both had a passion for journalism. Ruth’s daughter Shirley McDonald, and her husband Marv McDonald, established the Ruth and Julian Adams Memorial Scholarship Fund as a lasting tribute to Shirley’s parents’ memory. The fund benefits Benton County high school students pursuing careers in journalism.

The Pittsburgh Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four–year universities, graduate schools, and career/technical schools.

Pittsburgh ERG Scholarship Fund

The Pittsburgh ERG Scholarship formed by employees of Microsoft delivers on the mission of Microsoft’s local employee resource group to support diversity and inclusion. This scholarship enables high school students with disabilities and/or financial needs to go to college and pursue a career in technology. In addition, we hope to contribute to increasing the pool of people living with a disability enrolling in higher education and, in the long term, decrease the unemployment bias for this demographic. This scholarship will be awarded to promising high school seniors living in the city of Pittsburgh who plan to attend a vocational or academic college and have a financial need. The amount of this multi-year renewable scholarship is $12,000 payable over four years ($3,000 per year). (Immediate family members of Microsoft employees are not eligible for this scholarship.)

• Average Award: $12,000 over 4 years.
• Award Type: Multi-Year (up to 4 years). Recipients must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and enrollment in the stated major.

Seattle Foundation

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

Patricia Fisher Endowed Scholarship

The Seattle Association of Black Journalists (SABJ) established this scholarship in honor of Patricia Fisher, a Puget Sound native, journalist, educator and role model for her support of young people and her community. Scholarships of $5,000 help students of African descent who are from or attending college in Washington and who are pursuing college careers in communications, such as print, photo, broadcast journalism or multimedia and online journalism. Scholarships are awarded based on scholastic achievement, financial need, community service and a serious interest in communications. Recipient(s) will be matched with a mentor who is a SABJ member.

The Dr. Curtis Jones Leadership Award Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, honors the legacy of Dr. Curtis Jones, a distinguished educator and former Superintendent. This scholarship aims to support a graduating senior from Bibb County Public Schools who exemplifies leadership, scholarship, and citizenship. Awarded annually at $1,875, it is renewable for up to four years, encouraging students to achieve their academic goals while honoring Dr. Jones's commitment to education and community.

College Foundation, Inc.

College Foundation, Inc. (CFI), a non-profit corporation serving North Carolina students and families since 1955, administers education loan programs, several major grant and scholarship programs funded by the State of North Carolina for students attending North Carolina colleges and universities, and the tax-advantaged "NC 529" college savings program on behalf of the North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA).

Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program

The TEACH Grant Program provides grants of up to $4,000 a year to students who are completing or plan to complete course work needed to begin a career in teaching. More information may be found at the Federal Student Aid TEACH Grant website.

Repayment Information

As a condition for receiving a TEACH Grant, you must sign a TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve in which you agree to (among other requirements) teach

• in a high-need field;
• at an elementary school, secondary school, or educational service agency that serves students from low-income families; and
• for at least four complete academic years within eight years after completing (or ceasing enrollment in) the course of study for which you received the grant.

The Professional Nurses of Southwestern PA Scholarship Fund, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation, supports nursing education for students in nine counties of southwestern Pennsylvania. This scholarship aims to assist those pursuing a Pre-Licensure RN, BSN, Master's, PhD, or DNP programs. Eligible applicants must have completed one semester in a nursing program and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. The fund continues the legacy of the Pennsylvania State Nurses Association, promoting leadership and service in nursing.

The Pocket Nurse Scholarship Fund, established by Pocket Nurse at The Pittsburgh Foundation, provides financial assistance to students pursuing education in Allied Health, Nursing, and Nursing Faculty. This initiative highlights the Foundation's commitment to supporting local students, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, as they strive to achieve their academic and career goals. With a minimum GPA requirement of 3.5, the program aims to empower the next generation of healthcare professionals.

The Edna B. Collins Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, supports graduating seniors from Wautoma pursuing a degree in business. With awards ranging from $500 to $40,000, this scholarship aims to help students achieve their educational goals. Selection is based on academic performance, financial need, and extracurricular involvement, encouraging a diverse range of applicants to apply for this valuable opportunity.

The Alma Gilmore Doud Memorial Scholarship honors a dedicated community servant from Saginaw. Established by the Saginaw Community Foundation, this scholarship supports students pursuing Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs or undergraduate degrees. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and reside in the Great Lakes Bay Region. Priority is given to members of the First Congregational Church. Awards typically range from $500 to $4,000, addressing the growing demand for skilled trades in today's workforce.

The Pittsburgh Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four–year universities, graduate schools, and career/technical schools.

R.K. Mellon Family Scholarship/Ligonier Valley Endowment Fund

The R.K. Mellon Family Scholarship/Ligonier Valley Endowment Fund was established at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships to students in the Ligonier Valley School District. 

• Average Award: $5,000
• Award Type: Single-Year Award

The Dalsemer Interstitial Lung Disease Award, funded by the American Lung Association, provides $50,000 per year for two years to support junior investigators researching interstitial lung disease. This award aims to foster independence in early-career scientists while building on the Association's 120-year legacy of improving lung health through innovative research and advocacy efforts, ultimately enhancing the lives of those affected by lung disease.

The Manny Heaton Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Manny Heaton, a vibrant individual whose life was tragically cut short in April 2023. Established by his father, Tom Heaton, this annual scholarship supports the children of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana (TMMI) employees. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors with a minimum GPA of 2.0, planning to attend college or technical school, reflecting Manny's dedication and resilience.