Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

Grand Rapids Community Foundation

Connecting people, passion and resources

The Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that connects people, passion and resources. With our partners, the Community Foundation uses the tools of philanthropy to find solutions to pressing issues. We provide grants to support the work of nonprofits, scholarships to local students and other forms of support to communities working to eliminate barriers to opportunity, prosperity and belonging.

Our Mission is to build and manage our community’s permanent endowment and lead the community to strengthen the lives of its people.

We envision a magnetic and interconnected West Michigan community.

Integrity, Excellence, Inclusion, Sustainability and Bold Aspirations

Give and Receive Openly, Build Trust with Each Other, Create Brave and Safe Space, Embrace Vulnerability, Accountability

Our North Star

For West Michigan to grow and prosper, we must make sure that everyone can apply their talents and creativity to fuel our future. It is only by connecting across perspectives and overcoming inequities that we can build and sustain an inclusive economy and thriving community.

Opportunities for students

Apply for scholarships to support your ambitions

Each year Grand Rapids Community Foundation supports hundreds of students on their college or career training journeys. We are excited to remove barriers to academic success so that students like you can pursue what you're passionate about.

Scholarship Fund Details

Support for West Michigan Students

Attending college or trade school increases opportunity and opens doors to careers. Donor partners who establish a scholarship fund give students a boost on their path to higher education. Students who complete the general scholarship application are considered for these scholarships.

Open to full time students who are residents of Kent or Ottawa counties attending CMU, MSU, NMU, or Muskegon Community College and have a minimum 3.0 GPA.

The Varghese Summersett Autism Scholarship aims to support children diagnosed with autism who require financial assistance for educational or recreational opportunities. Offered by Varghese Summersett, this scholarship reflects the commitment to enhancing the quality of life for autistic children. It can be utilized for camps, tutoring, or educational tools to help them thrive. This initiative is particularly meaningful, as several members of the legal team have personal connections to autism, underscoring their dedication to this cause.

The UPMC Administrative Fellowship Program is a two-year opportunity designed for graduate students passionate about healthcare management. Participants engage with executive leadership through rotations, gaining hands-on experience in various health sectors. The program offers competitive salaries, benefits, and potential reimbursement for conference travel. UPMC is dedicated to developing future leaders in healthcare, emphasizing training and professional growth within its administrative fellowship.

About Us

The South Carolina Developmental Disabilities Council was established in 1971 by Executive Order of the Governor and was reauthorized in 2010 and again in 2015. Not less than 60% of the total Council membership is consumers and family members. Additional members come from state agencies, DD Act partners and non-governmental organizations.

The Council is federally funded under the Developmental Disabilities Act. The Council engages in activities that contribute to a coordinated, consumer and family centered and directed, comprehensive system that includes needed community services, individualized supports and other forms of assistance that promote self-determination for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

DD Council Small Grants

Small Grant Funding is awarded to evidence-based,organized activities that enhance knowledge and skills in priority areas outlined in our Five-Year State Plan, specifically Community Supports, Employment, and Self-Advocacy.

Organizations are limited to one small grant per program year, from July 1 to June 30.

The Duplin Foundation for Youth Advancement Grant, managed by the Duplin County Community Foundation, aims to support local organizations that focus on holistic youth development in Duplin County. This grant prioritizes initiatives that motivate youth to succeed academically, foster mentorship, and promote community engagement. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt charities and local government units, with a strong emphasis on nondiscrimination. The foundation encourages innovative proposals that enhance youth well-being and leadership skills.

The New Haven Scholarship Fund offers financial assistance to New Haven residents graduating from local public high schools with demonstrated need. Scholarships, ranging from $200 to $2900, are awarded for one academic year, covering two semesters. Eligible students must have attended a qualifying high school since senior year and complete a formal application process, including an interview. Reapplication is permitted each year, ensuring continued support for students' educational pursuits.

Reiter Family Foundation Grant

The Reiter Family Foundation seeks to support organizations that are doing meaningful work to shape and sustain Colorado communities. Our areas of focus are housing and food security, education and youth programming, and environment and conservation, but we do welcome inquiries from non-profits who do not necessarily fit neatly into our focus areas. In terms of geographic location, we tend to focus our giving in the Denver Metro and Grand County areas of Colorado.

Education and Youth Programming

Education: We believe that education is a cornerstone to every community, and with significant funding demands and an ever-changing educational landscape, it is getting more and more difficult each day for educators to meet the needs of their students. We want to come alongside public education systems, programming, and educators themselves to help them best serve their student populations.

Grants typically range from $2,000 - $15,000, but additional funding may be available.

Applicants can only submit one grant proposal each calendar year (January - December), but may apply again the following year unless otherwise advised. 

The Sister Mary Daniel Ruffing Nursing Scholarship Fund, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation, supports graduate and undergraduate nursing students in Western Pennsylvania. This fund aims to aid those demonstrating financial need, with a minimum GPA requirement of 2.5. Preference is given to undergraduate students, ensuring that future nurses are equipped to meet the healthcare demands of the community. The foundation's commitment to local stewardship enhances the scholarship's impact on the region.

The Ed Hiestand Memorial Veterinary Student Scholarship, awarded by the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association, invites current veterinary students to submit papers on wildlife rehabilitation topics. The scholarship includes a $1000 award, symposium registration, and a banquet ticket. Winners will present their findings at the NWRA Symposium, with eligibility requiring original, unpublished manuscripts. This initiative supports veterinary education and promotes wildlife conservation efforts.

The DeLeon Carter Foundation Grants support a wide range of charitable purposes, including religious, scientific, educational, and literary initiatives, as well as the prevention of cruelty to children and animals. This private foundation is committed to addressing the needs of the Rocky Mount and Nashville communities while maintaining flexibility in its decision-making processes. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

The English, Bonter, Mitchell Foundation Grant honors Dr. Calvin English, the first medical director of the Lincoln National Life Insurance Company. This private foundation primarily supports operating, programming, and multi-year capital campaigns in Northeast Indiana. The Distribution Committee convenes biannually to review proposals and allocate resources, ensuring impactful contributions to the community.

The Indian Land Tenure Foundation's Economic Opportunity Grant aims to empower American Indian nations by enhancing their control over reservation lands. This initiative addresses historical challenges in land ownership and economic development, providing essential resources and tools for communities to manage land effectively. By focusing on land acquisition and productive land use, the Foundation supports sustainable growth and cultural preservation, ultimately fostering economic self-sufficiency among Indigenous populations.

Davie Community Foundation

Founded in 1988, Davie Community Foundation is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving the lives of Davie County residents, today and for generations to come.

Mission: The Davie Community Foundation inspires philanthropy to strengthen Davie County for present and future generations. Vision: We envision Davie County as a vibrant community where everyone can thrive!

S.U.R.F. Board Grants

The S.U.R.F. (Students Understanding Real Futures) Board provides grant funding to support youth-led projects that make a positive impact in Davie County. These grants are designed to empower young people to identify needs in their community, develop solutions, and take an active role in carrying out meaningful projects with the support of an adult advisor and a sponsoring organization. If you are a student or youth group with an idea to benefit youth in our community, we encourage you to apply.  

Each year, the S.U.R.F. Board raises funds and awards grants to youth-led projects that make a positive difference in Davie County. Students are not only learning the value of giving their time, talents, and resources – they are actively identifying needs, evaluating proposals, and making real decisions that benefit their peers and their community.

This youth grant program gives high school students a hands-on opportunity to lead, learn, and give back.

Community Reinvestment Fund

The Community Reinvestment Fund, a capital grant program, shall be used for community redevelopment, revitalization and investment capital projects which will improve the economic, culture, historical, and recreational health of Delaware communities.

Eligible applicants include county and local governments, community-based nonprofit organizations, and private sector nonprofit organizations. All nonprofit organizations must hold a 501(c)3 designation at the time of application submission in order to be considered eligible. State agencies, school districts, charter schools, private schools, institutions of higher education, childcare facilities, churches, fire companies, fiscal agents, and for-profit organizations are not eligible for funds from the Community Reinvestment Fund.

The Indian Land Tenure Foundation's Legal Reform Grant Program aims to empower American Indian nations by addressing systemic barriers to land ownership and control. This initiative promotes collaboration on projects like estate planning, land policy reform, and engaging government leaders in discussions about tribal sovereignty. By focusing on legal reforms, the program seeks to rectify longstanding inequities and enhance the ability of tribes to manage their land effectively.

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Tennessee (TMMTN) Grants aims to foster community improvement by partnering with nonprofit organizations. Committed to enhancing the quality of life, Toyota supports initiatives in community sustainability, inclusive mobility, and workforce readiness. The program prioritizes long-term impact and inclusivity, ensuring diverse populations benefit from funding. Toyota encourages collaborative efforts to tackle pressing societal challenges while engaging employees as volunteers. Note that applications from certain organizations, including those outside the U.S., will not be considered.

The Vladimir R. Bakaleinikoff Memorial Fund, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation, offers scholarships to undergraduate music students entering their senior year. This fund honors Vladimir R. Bakaleinikoff's legacy by supporting students who demonstrate financial need and have a minimum GPA of 2.0. Eligible applicants must be rising juniors or seniors from Allegheny County, PA, pursuing a degree in music, ensuring continued investment in the arts within the community.

The NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship for Spring Sports is awarded to exceptional student-athletes who are in their final year of competition and have maintained a minimum GPA of 3.2. Each year, 126 scholarships of $10,000 are provided, split equally between male and female athletes across various sports. This initiative, established in 1964, aims to promote graduate education and recognizes not just athletic excellence, but also academic achievements and community involvement.

Mission Statement

Beckley Area Foundation exists to inspire and facilitate generous charitable giving that advances our community.

The Beckley Area Foundation is committed to enriching lives and strengthening communities across Southern West Virginia.

Scholarship

Supporting Student Success

The Beckley Area Foundation proudly manages scholarship funds established by individuals, businesses, and organizations dedicated to helping students pursue higher education. Many of these scholarships are tailored for specific schools, fields of study, or graduates from local high schools, while others offer broader opportunities. No matter the path, our scholarships aim to support students from our region as they work toward achieving their educational goals.

The Christie H. Meadows Family Scholarship

Eligibility

Need based scholarship for Raleigh County graduates, Member of FFA (Future Farmers of America) and/or 4Hclub, Required documentation of participation in FFA and/or 4H club, and preference given to students who have submitted an FFA and/or 4H project to the West Virginia State Fair.

The NLN Edmund J. Y. Pajarillo Health Informatics and Innovation Scholarship offers up to $5,000 annually to support graduate students in health informatics. This scholarship focuses on advancing nursing education through innovative data analysis and technology. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in accredited programs and have completed at least one year of study. Special consideration is given to nurses of color and those from marginalized communities transitioning to full-time teaching roles.

The Greenwall Foundation's Making a Difference in Real-World Bioethics Dilemmas Grant seeks proposals for innovative research addressing pressing bioethics issues in healthcare, policy, and practice. Projects should focus on topics such as trust in science, healthcare bias, public health crises, and healthcare access. The Foundation aims to support inclusive bioethics that incorporates diverse perspectives, promoting impactful solutions to real-world dilemmas while ensuring that bioethics remains central to decision-making in health-related fields.

Hamilton Community Foundation (Ohio)

The Hamilton Community Foundation, established in 1951 and headquartered in the historic Lane-Hooven House in Hamilton, Ohio, is the largest community foundation in Butler County. As a public charity managing over $160 million in assets and more than 900 individual, family, corporate, and nonprofit endowment funds, the Foundation is dedicated to making the community a better place to live, work, and play. It awards millions of dollars annually in grants and scholarships, addressing critical local priorities such as education, social and health issues affecting children and families, and community revitalization. By offering donors the impact of a private foundation without administrative burdens, and by adhering to National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations, the Hamilton Community Foundation demonstrates a long-standing commitment to financial stewardship, transparency, and lasting community impact, ensuring philanthropic resources continue to benefit the region in perpetuity.

Scholarships for Students Graduating from High School

Our scholarships are open to to students attending any school in Butler County, Ohio with a focus on those attending: Hamilton High School, Stephen T. Badin, Ross High School, New Miami High School, Lakota High Schools, Middletown High School, Talawanda High School, Edgewood High School and Fairfield High School.

The M.S.P.A. Grant, offered by the Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agriculture, provides financial support to projects that enhance agriculture in Massachusetts. With grants ranging from $500 to $25,000, the Society focuses on initiatives that are economically and environmentally sound, promote knowledge of farming, and stimulate research in new areas. Founded in 1792, the Society has a long-standing commitment to advancing agricultural practices and supporting farmers in the region.

The Next Generation Graduate Scholarship, established by the Architects Foundation, supports aspiring architects from diverse backgrounds. With an award of up to $20,000 over five years, it aims to enhance education accessibility in architecture. This initiative honors Whitney Young Jr.'s call for a more responsible profession, inviting students from technical schools, community colleges, and non-NAAB programs to apply. The scholarship not only aids in educational pursuits but also fosters a network of future leaders in architecture.

The Next Generation Undergraduate Scholarship, established by the Architects Foundation, aims to support diverse students pursuing architecture degrees. With a total award of up to $20,000, the scholarship is available to US citizens or permanent residents who are seniors in high school or second-year college students enrolled in NAAB-accredited programs. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering inclusivity and excellence in the architectural profession, empowering future leaders to shape the built environment.

The Bertha Parker Cody Award, offered by the Society for American Archaeology, supports Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian women pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies in archaeology and museum studies. This scholarship fosters educational advancement and collaboration between archaeologists and Indigenous communities, promoting ethical practices and cultural preservation. Funded in part by the Autry Museum of the American West, it aims to empower diverse voices within the field of archaeology and is available annually.

The AOA/AOSA Opportunities in Optometry Grant program aims to promote inclusion within the optometric profession. This program offers $1,500 grants to under-represented minority students who are applying to optometry school. Eligible candidates include U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or DACA recipients who meet specific academic criteria. The initiative seeks to enhance diversity in the field and expand access to primary eye care, supporting the next generation of optometrists.