Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Kiwanis Homestead Early Risers Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides $500 scholarships to Beatrice High School graduating seniors. Awards are available for those attending four-year institutions, pursuing vocational careers in plumbing, welding, line work, electrician, or nursing, and those enrolling at Southeast Community College. Selection criteria include financial need, volunteerism, and academic performance, supporting students' educational aspirations and professional development.

The National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) is a crucial surveillance initiative by the CDC aimed at understanding violent deaths and suicides. This funding opportunity supports state and local entities in modernizing NVDRS, enhancing data collection and reporting processes. Key activities include timely data updates, modernization assessments, and pilot projects for improved data systems. The goal is to create a sustainable national surveillance system that provides reliable data to inform public health actions and enhance violence and suicide prevention efforts.

The Oliver G. & Sarah Sloan Bauman Fund for the Arts, established in 1996, aims to perpetuate the appreciation of fine arts, particularly classical ballet and opera. Grants are awarded to 501(c)(3) organizations in Western New York, focusing on performances that preserve traditional compositions. The fund prioritizes Tier 1 for ballet and opera, and Tier 2 for high-quality classical performances by responsible nonprofits. It reflects a legacy of cultural enrichment through artistic expression.

About

The Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation (CBTF) was founded in 1988 by a group of dedicated parents, physicians, and friends to improve the treatment, quality of life, and the long term outlook for children with brain and spinal cord tumors through research, support, education, and advocacy to families and survivors. In addition to providing funds to research a cure, the organization is the nation’s leader in quality of life programs for families impacted by brain and spinal cord tumors. We support families from the day of diagnosis and throughout the brain tumor journey.

CBTF believes in the importance of being responsive to the needs of everyone in the brain tumor community regardless of their racial/ethnic background. We believe in the importance of a culture that values people of all racial/ ethnic backgrounds. We value the many identities that an individual brings to the community and honor and appreciate the intersections of these identities. Our practice values respect, integrity and honesty. We are committed to inclusiveness. 

The Rosalie Out of the Ordinary Scholarship

Thank you for applying for the Rosalie Out of the Ordinary Scholarship. This opportunity is given in memory of Rosalie Ou, a brain tumor survivor who brought positive energy and creativity everywhere she went. Her passions were fashion, art, and friendship. Rosalie taught many of us the art of origami and at the same time instilled in us lessons about how to live a life filled with joy. Rosalie was not able to complete her degree at the Fashion Institute of Technology. In her memory we dedicate this scholarship to a student who wants to fulfill their dream of a career in fashion or art.

Investing in Our Communities

Regions Bank and Regions Foundation are committed to helping individuals, families, and businesses achieve financial success.

We work alongside nonprofit organizations, local businesses, government and service agencies to address social and economic issues, assist in building inclusive economic prosperity and help more members of our communities benefit from the rewards of a growing economy.

We make strategic and disciplined community investments in programs that seek to achieve three target outcomes:

Economic and Community Development

• Affordable housing
• Job creation
• Small business development
• Homebuyer education and retention
• Neighborhood revitalization and stabilization

Education and Workforce Readiness

• Student competency and skill building
• College and career readiness
• Educational access and success
• Credential building and employment
• Educator training and resources

Financial Wellness

• Financial education to youth, adults, and vulnerable populations
• Financial planning tools and resources, including Regions Next Step®
• Integrated asset-building

Technical Assistance Grants

These grants provide funding to nonprofit community groups to employ independent Licensed Site Remediation Professionals to perform activities designed to help improve the community’s understanding of the environmental conditions at, and remediation of, a contaminated site. The bulk of the funds must be used to hire an independent Licensed Site Remediation Professional as a technical advisor to help interpret and comment on site related documents. Funded by the DEP, grants are available to community groups during the remedial investigation phase and the remedial action phase of a cleanup of a contaminated site. DEP will award a maximum of $10,000 for a single remedial investigation and a maximum of $10,000 for a single remedial action. DEP will not award a Technical Assistance Grant to more than one community group at any one time for any contaminated site.

GRANT LIMITATIONS 

TAG funds are available to community groups during the Remedial Investigation (RI) phase and the Remedial Action (RA) phase of a cleanup of a contaminated site. DEP will award a maximum of $10,000 for a single RI and a maximum of $10,000 for a single RA. DEP will not award a TAG to more than one community group at any one time for any contaminated site.

The CTE Grant for Non-Traditional Grants supports Perkins V Programs of Study, focusing on fields where individuals from one gender make up less than 25% of the workforce, such as technology and computer science. Eligible applicants include education cooperatives and single local education agencies (LEAs) qualified for Perkins funding. For detailed career pathways in Arkansas for 2024-2025, refer to the provided link. This initiative aims to promote gender diversity in high-skill occupations.

The CoServ Charitable Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in North Texas, focusing on basic human needs, community vitality, and education. Since its inception in 2004, the foundation has awarded nearly $20 million to various causes, including food assistance and support for first responders. Eligible projects must be within the CoServ service area, while municipalities and first responders can apply during any cycle. Notably, general operating funds, capital campaigns, and salary support are ineligible for consideration.

Otsego Community Foundation

The Otsego Community Foundation (OCF) is a nonprofit organization created by and for the people of our community. We help meet critical local needs by collaborating with donors and nonprofits serving Otsego county, managing permanent funds, and awarding purposeful grants. We magnify your generosity and impact and ensure that charitable funds are directed where they matter most. Our services cover the entire county and all fields of interest including Arts and Culture, Conservation, Community and Economic Development, Health and Human Services, Education and Youth Initiatives.

Ultimately, our efforts help fill forests with trees, minds with knowledge, youth with dreams, workforce with skills, society with art & culture, pantries with food, communities with connections, and hearts with that joyful feeling of making a difference.

Adapt Grants

Adapt Grants are designed to fund projects that are small in scale, meet an unanticipated need, explore new opportunities, sponsor an event, and grow capacity. These grants are meant to be flexible and support you in adapting to changing needs, so whether you’re dreaming up a new project that could use seed or matching support, or are tackling a challenge that popped up suddenly, we want to support you in executing your day-to-day mission. Compared to the Community Grant Program “big rocks”, we consider these to be “pebble” projects. Both are important for advancing one’s mission. You can apply for both an Adapt Grant and the Community Grant Program in the same year.  

For 2025-2027 the OCF has identified three high impact partners areas to proactively support the community:

• OCAN-Advanced training
• Housing Task Force-Attainable housing
• START-Coordinated human service

Proposals that align with these areas will be strongly considered. 

The Safeway Foundation, part of the Albertsons Companies Foundation, focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations in Portland, OR, and SW Washington that align with their mission to improve community quality of life. Priorities include health services, hunger relief, education, and supporting diversity. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $5,000, aimed at organizations with a 501(c)(3) designation, ensuring funds are directed towards impactful programs and community initiatives.

The Mapp Family Foundation Grant aims to support 501(c)3 organizations in Central & South Mississippi and Coastal Alabama. With a focus on aiding vulnerable people and animals, the foundation encourages applications for grants up to $5,000. The foundation prioritizes compassionate care, striving to enhance the quality of life for those in need. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt entities or governmental agencies, while individuals are ineligible for funding.

The Robert L. Schattner Scholarship Fund, managed by the Jewish Community Foundation, offers financial support to Jewish students from Burlington, Camden, or Gloucester Counties who are pursuing higher education. Eligible candidates must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. The scholarship can be applied towards tuition, books, or living expenses. This initiative aims to foster educational advancement within the Jewish community, encouraging students to achieve their academic goals.

The Elaine Ehlers Arts Scholarship, established in 2002, offers $5,000 to graduating high school seniors in New Jersey who demonstrate artistic excellence in various disciplines such as dance, drama, visual arts, or music. The scholarship is awarded based on a panel's evaluation of work samples and character. This initiative honors Elaine Ehlers' legacy, promoting arts education and supporting students pursuing their creative passions at accredited institutions.

The Berenson Fellowship, supported by The Lila Wallace – Reader’s Digest Fund, invites scholars to explore 'Italy in the World' through transnational dialogues during the Renaissance (14th-17th century). This residential fellowship spans 4 to 6 months, offering USD 5,200 monthly and potential housing support. Applicants must hold a PhD and reside in Florence for at least three days a week. Priority is given to early and mid-career scholars, especially those with limited access to research resources in Italy.

The Banks Baldwin Foundation, established in 1994, supports community initiatives that enhance education and the arts, promote self-sufficiency, and foster leadership among youth. With a focus on active citizenship, the foundation encourages nonprofit organizations to apply for funding to drive positive change in their communities. The foundation's board meets annually to review proposals and make grant decisions, ensuring that their mission aligns with the needs of the communities they serve.

The INPS Biodiversity Grants, offered by the Indiana Native Plant Society, support projects that promote the appreciation and preservation of Indiana's native plants. Grants are available for research on native plant species, demonstration gardens, and land management efforts. Eligible projects must be open to the public, while funds cannot be used for transportation or lodging. This initiative aims to educate the community about the ecological significance of native flora.

The Need to Know Grant by the Albuquerque Community Foundation offers nonprofits the chance to submit rolling grant requests throughout the year. This initiative allows organizations to keep the Foundation informed about their programs and ongoing funding needs. With suggestions to apply for amounts between $5,000 and $10,000, the grant aims to support projects that enhance community well-being in Bernalillo, Sandoval, Torrance, and Valencia counties.

The Eugenie Coladarci Arts Scholarship, offered by Morris Arts, awards $1,500 to graduating high school seniors in New Jersey who demonstrate artistic excellence in various disciplines such as dance, drama, visual arts, or music. Applicants are evaluated by a panel of experts based on their work samples, essays, and dedication to the arts. The scholarship directly supports tuition at the chosen college or arts program, continuing the legacy of Eugenie R. Coladarci, a passionate advocate for young artists.

The TFF Capacity Building Grant supports nonprofit organizations, schools, and government agencies in Illinois, helping them strengthen their operational effectiveness. Grants can fund a variety of projects, including professional development and strategic planning. Organizations are required to contribute 10% of the requested amount in cash. This grant aims to enhance organizational impact, enabling recipients to deliver more effective programs and pursue new opportunities.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The Marlène and Paolo Fresco Fellowship provides a six-month residential opportunity for post-doctoral scholars focused on cultural exchanges between Africa and the Mediterranean from 1250-1750. With a monthly stipend of USD 5,200 and relocation support, the fellowship requires residency in Florence and emphasizes original research in African history. Applicants must hold a PhD and be fluent in English, Italian, or French, ensuring a solid foundation in early modern global exchanges.

Our Mission

Empower donors to fulfill their passions and dreams by establishing charitable vehicles designed to create a positive and enduring impact on Jewish Buffalo, Western New York and the World.

Golden Goldman Fund

The Golden Goldman Philanthropic Fund’s mission is to maximize local impact in support of: Women’s issues including reproduction and choice; Arts and Culture; Literacy; Reducing Income Inequality; and Judaism.

Funding will be awarded based on your proposal's potential impact. We will be looking at the applying organizations' fiscal viability and their ability to reach out to underserved individuals as part of our evaluation process. We do not usually provide funding for ongoing, existing programs.

About Us

Who We Are

The National Federation of the Blind is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded in 1940 and currently headquartered in Baltimore, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.

What We Do

Through our network of blind members, we coordinate many programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind Americans, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates a future full of opportunities.

What We Believe

We are the only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power to transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people—from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

Scholarship Program

Thanks to our generous partners, there are thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships currently available. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. 

Howard Brown Rickard Scholarship

The Howard Brown Rickard Scholarship, first granted in 1965, is awarded to post-secondary full time students studying law, medicine, engineering, architecture, or the natural sciences.

The Deerfield Charitable Trust, established in 2010, supports charitable, scientific, literary, educational, and religious endeavors in Northern Tioga County, Pennsylvania. It prioritizes funding for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that promote health, wellness, and the arts. Founded by Edwin A. and Jane E. Glover, the trust reflects their commitment to community service and cultural enrichment, inspired by their passions for local history and education.

The Walter Blackburn Scholarship, established by Alpha Blackburn in memory of her husband, supports Marion County residents pursuing degrees in design, architecture, fine arts, performing arts, or construction management. Eligible students must demonstrate financial need and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Preference is given to public school and minority students. Awards cover educational expenses at accredited institutions, including tuition, fees, and sometimes room and board, fostering educational opportunities in Central Indiana.

The Elmer G Biddick Charitable Foundation Grant supports organizations in Iowa and Grant Counties, Wisconsin, focusing on enhancing community welfare. It prioritizes programs that deliver significant benefits to local residents and welcomes applications from public schools, government units, and nonprofit organizations. The Foundation particularly values educational initiatives in agriculture and forestry while discouraging funding for individual grants and operating expenses. Collaborative projects addressing community needs are encouraged, ensuring no duplication of existing services.