Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The William Tucker Keene Memorial Scholarship, established by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, provides financial support to students who value education as a lifelong asset. Open to high school seniors, current college students, and adults returning to school, this scholarship aims to help those pursuing degrees or certificates. Since its inception, the Foundation has allocated over $50 million to enhance the quality of life within the community, underscoring its commitment to philanthropic efforts.

The Gosnold Community Scholarship, established by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, offers tuition assistance to individuals who have actively contributed to the Gosnold Community and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship aims to support high school seniors, college students, and adults returning to education for degree or certificate programs, fostering educational advancement and community engagement. With a commitment to philanthropy, the Foundation has distributed over $50 million to enhance the quality of life in the region since 1995.

The Dr. Frederick M. Kalisz, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, established by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, honors high school seniors from New Bedford pursuing degrees in Political Science, Public Policy, Organizational Leadership, Business Administration, Sustainability, or related fields. This scholarship reflects Dr. Kalisz's commitment to public service and aims to support exemplary students in their educational endeavors. Since 1995, the Foundation has facilitated over $50 million in philanthropic giving to enhance the community's quality of life.

The RPAC Fundraising Grants, offered by the National Association of Realtors, support state and local associations in organizing fundraising events aimed at boosting RPAC contributions. These grants require a fundraising goal three times the amount requested, ensuring tangible results. The initiative emphasizes developing detailed fundraising plans that comply with state laws regarding corporate treasury funds. This program is vital for enhancing RPAC participation and advancing property ownership advocacy.

Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi

The Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi manages 314 donor-established funds and has disbursed over $48 million to support more than 1,000 charitable organizations and activities recommended by its donors, as well as charitable programs established by the foundation. Established in 2002 with a generous grant from the Maddox Foundation, the Community Foundation is an independent 501(c)3 charitable organization. The Foundation serves Bolivar, Coahoma, DeSoto, Leflore, Marshall, Panola, Quitman, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tunica and Yalobusha counties. 

Shapoor Alexander Ghane Memorial Endowment

Shapoor Alexander Ghane was a Navy SEAL and to honor his memory this scholarship fund was established to benefit the children of Navy SEAL members who died in action. 

The Jacki Apple Award in Performance and Artist Projects, presented by Franklin Furnace, honors the legacy of Jacki Apple in the New York art scene. This annual award, distributed over ten years, supports a mid or late-career artist based in New York City, with a focus on performance art. Each year, $10,000 will be awarded to fund projects in performance, media, exhibition, or publication, fostering creativity and innovation in the arts.

The Reed Penington Family Trust Scholarship Fund, managed by The Denver Foundation, supports Colorado residents who are undergraduate or graduate students in their final two years of schooling. This fund aims to assist those facing financial barriers that hinder their educational pursuits. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 2.75 or higher and demonstrate financial need through FAFSA or CASFA. The scholarship fosters academic persistence and helps students graduate within two academic years.

The R. Alvin Stevenson Fund Grant aims to enhance community welfare by supporting nonprofits focused on health and human services in Hocking and Fairfield Counties. This initiative, backed by The Columbus Foundation, invites 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations to apply for funding that fosters continuous innovation in service delivery. With a focus on strategic grantmaking, this program seeks to strengthen our community through effective partnerships between donors and nonprofits.

Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi

The Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi manages 314 donor-established funds and has disbursed over $48 million to support more than 1,000 charitable organizations and activities recommended by its donors, as well as charitable programs established by the foundation. Established in 2002 with a generous grant from the Maddox Foundation, the Community Foundation is an independent 501(c)3 charitable organization. The Foundation serves Bolivar, Coahoma, DeSoto, Leflore, Marshall, Panola, Quitman, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tunica and Yalobusha counties. 

Win Winogrond Memorial Scholarship

Mark Winogrond has established a scholarship in memory of his older brother, Henry “Win” Winogrond, Jr., who passed away in Clarksdale in 2014. The scholarship will help an outstanding graduate of Coahoma Community College to complete a four-year degree at a college of the recipient’s choice.

Win was a lifelong fan of the blues. In Clarksdale, he restored historic buildings as lodging for national and international travelers making pilgrimages to America’s “Home of the Blues”. Win served with distinction in Vietnam and was awarded a Purple Heart as a decorated member of the Special Forces. He continued to assist the U.S. government throughout a long and distinguished career. He traveled to more than 300 counties. Win was buried, with an honor guard, at Arlington National Cemetery.

The Paraprofessional to Teacher Reimbursement Grant, Round 3, offered by the Georgia Department of Education, aims to recruit teachers within local educational agencies and GNETS programs in Georgia. This initiative provides financial assistance to paraprofessionals who are pursuing their teaching certification through the Georgia Teacher Academy for Preparation Pedagogy Program (GaTAPP), thereby enhancing the workforce of qualified educators in the state.

The Beaufort Jasper Water & Sewer Authority Scholarship, established in 2024, offers financial support to students from Beaufort and Jasper Counties, South Carolina. This scholarship is both merit-based and need-based, aiming to assist deserving students in pursuing their post-secondary education. Funded by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, it reflects a commitment to fostering educational opportunities in the region.

The Dr. Glenn Neil Love Medical Scholarship, established in 2014, provides annual financial assistance to individuals pursuing medical training and education. It aims to support nontraditional applicants currently employed in healthcare who demonstrate financial need and a commitment to advancing their skills. Priority is given to those seeking additional certifications or training to enhance their expertise in the medical field.

The William H. Young and Dorothy Young Mixer Field of Interest Fund, managed by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, aims to enhance the natural beauty of the Grand Haven area. Grants support projects focused on improving public natural settings and facilities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, government units, and educational institutions serving Northwest Ottawa County and greater West Michigan, provided they address the foundation’s sustainability priorities.

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.

Jeanne Yalon-Owens Memorial Scholarship

Jeanne Marie Yalon was born in San Francisco, CA. She earned a BSN from both UC Davis and San Francisco State University and a MN from Louisiana State University Health Science Center.

Jeanne’s ability to connect with people was immediate. You were better in her presence because she saw and encouraged who you were. She radiated joy, communicated empathy and maintained a curiosity about people and the world around them. She nurtured her friendships; supported hundreds of patients seeking medical care; and was a mentor to numerous intern students and those exploring a career in healthcare.

This scholarship fund was established to benefit and support Siskiyou County high school graduates and current college students pursuing higher education in the field of health care.

The Saints Arts Grants support theater, dance, music, and multi-disciplinary organizations in their artistic endeavors. Grants of up to $6,500 are available for projects taking place from June 1, 2025, to May 31, 2026. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations with at least three years of operation. Funded projects may include costumes, community outreach, and technical improvements, fostering diverse artistic expressions and community engagement.

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.

Keefer Scholarship Award

United Scholarships, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing scholarships to deserving students of the Yreka Union High School District.

Through wise investments and sound stewardship, United Scholarships, Inc. is committed to making available to graduates of Yreka Union High School District for many future years the monetary awards they will need to be successful at college.

United Scholarships, Inc. partners with the Community Foundation to offer applications for the Keefer Scholarship Award and Merit Scholarship Award.

Cumberland Community Foundation ("CCF") manages more than 60 scholarship endowment funds created by local individuals, families, civic organizations, and corporations who want to provide a path to higher education for future generations. 

Each year, Cumberland Community Foundation announces more than $1,000,000 in college scholarships to students from southeastern North Carolina.

Organization of Korean-American Women of NC Scholarship

Currently enrolled in a NC college, university or community college, taking a minimum of 6 credit hours per semester.

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.

Kelly Moravec Academic Encouragement Scholarship

An award opportunity for graduating students who are dealing with, or have dealt with, a serious medical adversity.

The Kelly Moravec Academic Encouragement Scholarship, is in honor and loving memory of Kelly Moravec. Kelly Moravec was a young man who despite huge battles with medical tragedies, kept true to his academic goals and dreams. The Fund was established to honor the overcoming of medical adversities and to encourage continued education beyond high school through the awarding of scholarships, awards, and gifts for academic achievement, and the facilitation of connecting students for resource networking and peer support.

The "I'm Pet Friendly" License Plate Grants aim to enhance spay and neuter programs across Missouri by providing funding to eligible animal shelters and non-profit organizations. By purchasing specialty license plates, individuals contribute to a fund that supports these initiatives. Grants are evaluated by a panel and awarded based on the availability of funds, ensuring effective use of resources to reduce the pet population and improve animal health care in the state.

The Community Identity and Heritage Grant, administered by the Minnesota Humanities Center, allocates $6,299,000 to support projects that celebrate and teach the diverse cultures of Minnesota. This funding opportunity is open to individuals and organizations, with grants up to $300,000 available. It aims to enhance cultural heritage work for historically underrepresented communities, including Indigenous groups and recent immigrants. All funds must be utilized for new initiatives, ensuring the continuation and growth of Minnesota's rich cultural landscape.

The CFGFW Emergency Grant Program provides crucial funding to Allen County nonprofits facing unexpected expenses that hinder their mission. These grants are designed to address urgent, unforeseen challenges, including community disasters like floods or tornadoes. The Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne is committed to supporting local organizations in overcoming financial hurdles, ensuring they can continue their vital work in the community. Emergency Grants may also cover reimbursements for expenses incurred within 14 days of an emergency.

PetSmart Charities' Adoption Partnerships and Event Grants support organizations in finding loving homes for pets. With over 10 million pets placed, the program offers resources like cash rewards for adoptions and grants for event support. Eligible partners include registered charities and educational institutions. The maximum grant available is $5,000, aimed at maximizing the impact of adoption events. Join us in enhancing the lives of pets and their new families through collaboration and community engagement.

The Advancement Grant Program provides flexible matching grants to support Los Angeles County school districts in delivering quality arts education. With funding up to $25,000, the program enables districts to invest in projects aligned with their arts plans, ensuring sustainable practices beyond the grant term. Backed by the Funders Council and the LA County Board of Supervisors, it leverages public and private resources to enhance instruction in various art forms, including dance, music, and visual arts.

PetSmart Charities offers Natural Disaster Response Grants to support organizations addressing the urgent needs of pets affected by major disasters. Grant funds can be utilized for shelter supplies, veterinary care, structural repairs, and supplemental staff expenses within 30 to 45 days post-disaster. In special cases, funding may extend up to 60 days. Eligible applicants include authorized disaster responders and nonprofit organizations directly impacted by the disaster, ensuring timely assistance to affected animals and their caretakers.

The Ditchfield Family Scholarship, established by the SouthCoast Community Foundation, aims to support high-achieving students in financial need. This scholarship is open to high school seniors and college students pursuing accredited vocational programs or degree courses. With a commitment to enhance educational opportunities, the Foundation has disbursed over $50 million to community needs since 1995. This scholarship reflects their mission to foster philanthropy and improve lives in the region.

The Central District Scholarship, funded by Michigan Sugar Company, awards up to two $1,000 scholarships annually to deserving high school seniors or college first-year students. Eligible applicants must reside in the Central District and have completed a Michigan Sugar Youth Sugarbeet Project. This initiative reflects Michigan Sugar's commitment to fostering education and community involvement, ensuring that local youth have the support they need to succeed in their academic pursuits.

The Albert Flegenheimer Memorial Scholarship, established by Michigan Sugar Company in 1974, honors a dedicated leader and supports high school seniors completing a Youth Sugarbeet Project with a $2,500 award. Additionally, the Next Generation Scholarship, initiated in 2013, provides a $1,000 award to the runner-up, reinforcing Michigan Sugar Company’s commitment to nurturing future sugarbeet growers. This scholarship program emphasizes community involvement and encourages local youth to pursue agricultural opportunities.