Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The McKnight Media Artist Fellowships, offered by FilmNorth in collaboration with the McKnight Foundation, provide four $25,000 fellowships to mid-career media artists residing in Minnesota. These fellowships aim to recognize artistic excellence and support the creative work of individuals with a strong commitment to media arts. In addition to the financial award, fellows benefit from public acknowledgment, networking opportunities, and professional support, fostering a vibrant community of artists.

The Dr. Booker T. DeVaughn and Dr. Elena L. Haynes DeVaughn Endowed Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, aims to support African-American students from Greater Hartford in pursuing undergraduate degrees. Since 1945, this fund has contributed to the scholarship program, which has awarded nearly $30 million to local students. This initiative addresses the rising costs of college education and encourages academic success among underrepresented communities.

The Dorothy E. Hofmann Pembroke Scholarship Fund, established by a dedicated teacher, provides scholarships for female residents of Hartford who plan to attend specific colleges. Since 1945, the Hartford Foundation has awarded nearly $30 million to support local students in their pursuit of higher education. This fund honors the legacy of Dorothy E. Hoffman, encouraging young women to pursue their academic dreams at institutions like UConn and Brown University. Award range: 2-6 annually.

American Psychiatric Association Foundation

There is no health without mental health. The APA Foundation is working in your community to provide the support and resources we all need to prioritize mental wellbeing where you live, learn, work, worship, and play.

Backed by the medical expertise of the APA and industry-leading strategic partners, we administer community-changing programs, public education campaigns, grants, and awards aimed at increasing mental health literacy, connecting individuals to needed care, and shifting attitudes toward mental health.

Edwin Valdiserri Correctional Public Psychiatry Fellowship

The Edwin V. Valdiserri Correctional Public Psychiatry Fellowship program has been made possible by a generous gift from Ronald Valdiserri, M.D., M.P.H., in memory of his brother Edwin V. Valdiserri, M.D. and creates a special opportunity for current residents who are interested in public, community, or forensic psychiatry programs to receive additional experience, training and mentorship in a correctional setting.

Program Benefits

• Sponsorship to attend a minimum of four APA meetings: Two APA Annual Meetings and Two Fellowship Forums
• Attend Fellows' choice of one of the following: The American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law (AAPL) Annual Meeting OR National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) Annual Conference
• Attend courses and workshops at APA meetings and be exposed to training opportunities that develop leaders in public psychiatry
• Collaborate with other Public Psychiatry Fellows to plan a workshop at the APA meeting
• Gain an understanding of APA/APAF governance through service on an APA Council, Committee, or APAF initiative
• Have the opportunity to sit on the APA Board of Trustees as a non-voting member (one of the Edwin Valdiserri/Public Psychiatry Fellows allowed)
• Cultivate a professional network with psychiatrists through exclusive events and engagements with APA leaders. Establish relationships and peer-mentorship with a diverse group of resident fellows with similar career interests and goals

Program Expectations

• Maintain APA membership and good standing in one’s residency program throughout the fellowship
• Contribute a minimum of 40 volunteer hours annually in a correctional facility
• Provide confirmation from your Training Director or Department Chair that this required volunteer service is feasible and can/will be supported
• Attend two consecutive APA Meetings, two Fellowship Forums, and all fellowship related activities
• Actively participate on an assigned APA Council, Committee, or APAF work group
• Participate in Fellowship teleconferences (a minimum of 50%)
• Participate in mid-year and year-end evaluations with Fellowship Program Manager.

The Delano & Aldrich/Emerson Fellowship, established by the Architects Foundation, provides a unique opportunity for a young French architect to travel and study in the U.S. for three months. With a budget of $20,000, the fellowship emphasizes contemporary issues in architecture, including sustainability and inclusive design. Candidates aged 23 to 35, holding a degree in architecture, are eligible. This program aims to foster cross-cultural understanding and inspire future architects through immersive experiences.

The Nancy Stump Seiger Scholarship Fund, managed by the Berks County Community Foundation, offers scholarships to graduating seniors from Berks County planning to pursue education at Kutztown University. Established in 1994, the foundation aims to fulfill charitable goals by distributing millions in scholarships and grants annually to support local students and nonprofit endeavors. This fund specifically encourages future educators, helping them achieve their academic aspirations.

The John Rich Curran Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by family and friends in 2005, supports outstanding graduating seniors from Schuylkill County high schools. Managed by the Berks County Community Foundation, this fund provides multi-year scholarships to students with a cumulative B average (3.0) or better. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and plan to pursue further education at a four-year college or university. This scholarship is available to select schools on a rotating basis.

Debartolo Family Foundation

The Debartolo Family Foundation was founded in 2001 with one goal in mind: To channel the same level of care, compassion and dedication that has allowed the DeBartolo family to find success in real estate, sports, and other ventures, into efforts that help serve the underserved communities of Tampa Bay.

For nearly two decades, we have strengthened the community by helping youth, veterans, animals, and local grassroots organizations that share our mission and values. The Foundation annually awards scholarships to students, provides back to school grants to local teachers, adopts Bay Area families during the holidays, and three times each year presents the Spirit of Humanity Award – a $25,000 donation that honors the most outstanding local philanthropic outreach programs. Since 2002, the DeBartolo Family Foundation has given nearly $17 million to strengthen Tampa Bay by bringing people together through its passion for giving back.

Spirit of Humanity Award

The DeBartolo Family Foundation’s Spirit of Humanity Award honors local nonprofit organizations that impact the Tampa Bay community in a meaningful way. Recipients of this award create unity, demonstrate hard work, and extend their outreach by helping people in need to overcome obstacles that are beyond their control. Since 2002, 60+ recipients have been recognized with the $25,000 Spirit of Humanity Award, awarded three times annually.

If you believe your organization, or an organization that you support, would be a candidate for this award, please submit the nomination form. 

Alger Regional Community FoundationThe Alger Regional Community Foundation (ARCF) is a locally based 501(C)(3) nonprofit corporation dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Alger County through grants and scholarships.ARCF is a unique institution. It is a permanent, yet flexible, collection of endowment funds contributed by people from all walks of life who want to make a difference in our community.Clarence A. Thunander Endowment Scholarship FundGiven to an Alger County graduate who is continuing his/her education at an institution of higher learning in the medical-related field. The student receiving this award will be required to have completed 50 hours of satisfactory college credit with 10 hours in a medical-related field and provide college transcripts. They must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale. They must be attending an accredited college and pursuing a minimum of a 4-year degree in a medical-related field.

The Health Foundation's Challenge Grants aim to enhance health and well-being in Wilkes County, North Carolina, by promoting community-driven solutions that tackle health equity and social determinants of health. These grants support organizations in developing sustainable fundraising programs to meet identified healthcare needs. Eligible applicants include non-profits and governmental entities, while funding is not available for religiously affiliated services. The program encourages innovative approaches to health improvement in the local community.

The Fulton Association for Community Enrichment Multi-Fund Grant, managed by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, combines four grant opportunities to support various community needs in Fulton, IL. This grant facilitates funding for organizations focusing on community impact, education, and essential services for residents. It aims to enhance organizational capacity and support critical projects, ensuring that local needs are met effectively. By connecting generous donors with pressing community causes, this initiative fosters lasting positive change.

The Hispanic Fund Grant, managed by the Community Foundation of Lorain County, aims to enhance socioeconomic and educational opportunities for the Hispanic community in Lorain County. It funds projects that address social issues, promote public safety, and improve educational outcomes. Eligible applicants must have IRS 501(c)(3) status or a fiscal sponsor. The fund prioritizes innovative solutions to community challenges while excluding grants for membership fees, religious purposes, and capital support.

The Geneseo Is For Tomorrow (GIFT) Grant, provided by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, aims to support nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status. Annually, it awards significant funding, having distributed over $160,000 last year to schools, hospitals, and community organizations. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to enhancing local communities through generous donations, fostering a culture of philanthropy and support for vital causes in Rock Island County, Illinois, and Scott County, Iowa.

The Louie F. Cox Scholarship, established by the Middletown Community Foundation, honors Mr. Louie Cox, an influential civil rights advocate. This scholarship supports African American students graduating from high schools in Butler or Warren Counties, Ohio, recognizing their academic achievements as well as their community service and leadership. With a legacy rooted in community support, this scholarship reflects the foundation's commitment to empowering future leaders and fostering educational opportunities.

Murray & Agnes Seasongood Good Government Foundation

Agnes and Murray Seasongood were philanthropists who promoted good government and civic reform. The Seasongood Foundation honors their legacy by fostering accountability, transparency, equity, and efficiency in local government through grants for 501(c)(3) community organizations and professional associations serving the Greater Cincinnati Region. The Foundation reviews proposals three times each year. Visit the grant applications page for deadlines and access to the online application form.

As champions of good government, the Trustees identified key investment areas to live out their mission with the community.

• Engagement in Democracy – projects and programs that actively and directly champion voter education, voting access, and equitable voting; projects and programs that address issues of redistricting, gerrymandering, and the rising threat of authoritarianism in America
• Public Service Professionalism – public service internships (especially for college students with local government offices), public/private collaborations, anti-corruption efforts, the protection of poll workers and election officials
• Combating Political Polarization – projects and programs that advance fair, balanced media and fact-based reporting; community efforts to cultivate civil discourse; projects and programs that advocate for transparency in government actions and policies

Seasongood Good Government Foundation Internship Program

Since 1975, The Seasongood Good Government Foundation Internship Program, offers a select group of college juniors, seniors, and graduate students insights into the realities of the day-to-day operation of the government of the City of Cincinnati. Interns, working under the supervision of local government professionals, have a chance to contribute to the local government while they are learning about government. In 2020, the trustees updated the Seasongood Good Government Internship Program to include all government organizations in the Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky region. A revised application and reporting process was been implemented for 2022.

The goal of the Seasongood Foundation internship program is to support the development of emerging professionals who want to work in the public realm, and who understand and practice good government principles.

The Irv Noll Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 2006 by the Berks County Community Foundation, honors Irv Noll's legacy by providing annual scholarships to seniors from public or parochial high schools in Berks County. Eligible recipients must have participated in high school sports, maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher, and demonstrate financial need. This fund supports students who embody kindness, sportsmanship, and perseverance, helping them pursue further education and achieve their goals.

The Iris M. Balthaser Adam Scholarship Fund, established in 2014 by the Berks County Community Foundation, honors Iris M. Balthaser Adam, a dedicated teacher. This fund provides scholarships to high school seniors from Berks County, Pennsylvania, who plan to attend Kutztown University majoring in Elementary Education. Eligible students must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to graduates of Hamburg Area High School, promoting local educational advancement.

The GRIP Dreamer Scholarship Fund, established by the Berks County Community Foundation in 2013, supports college scholarships for immigrants ineligible for federal or Pennsylvania financial aid. This fund aims to empower aspiring students in Berks County by providing crucial financial assistance. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and recent graduates under 30, with specific GPA requirements to ensure academic merit. Previous recipients must reapply annually to be considered for continued support.

The Donald and Dorothy Bonelli Puerto Rican Education Fund, established by Dorothy Bonelli's educational trust after her passing in 2012, aims to support graduating high school seniors of Puerto Rican descent from the Greater Hartford region. This scholarship fund provides financial assistance to help these students pursue post-secondary education, reinforcing the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving's commitment to educational opportunities since 1945.

The Daniel R. DiNardi Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports graduating seniors from Rocky Hill High School with a sports background, particularly basketball. This scholarship honors Daniel R. DiNardi and aims to assist students pursuing higher education. The Hartford Foundation has a long history of providing scholarships to local students, having awarded nearly $30 million since 1945 to facilitate access to post-secondary education.

The Christopher Guerrini Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports high school seniors from the Greater Hartford region who demonstrate financial need. Eligible students must attend a four-year college, show interest in business or history, and have a record of community involvement, particularly in sports, with a preference for soccer. This scholarship reflects the Foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities for local youth.

The Furci Family Scholarship Fund, offered by the National Italian American Foundation, supports outstanding Italian American undergraduate students enrolled in at least 10 credits of Italian language or studies. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher and hold an active NIAF membership, which can be through a parent or grandparent. This scholarship aims to promote the rich Italian heritage and culture among future generations.

The Frank D. Stella Scholarship, offered by the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), supports outstanding undergraduate students of Italian descent pursuing business-related fields. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher and hold an active NIAF membership, which can also be from a parent or grandparent. This initiative encourages the preservation of Italian culture and heritage while fostering academic excellence among Italian American students.

The Monocacy Foundation Grant provides essential funding to support Frederick County residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Established in 1995, this foundation aims to bridge financial gaps in medical, educational, and recreational needs, ensuring dignity and opportunities for all. Grants cover expenses like vacations, adaptive equipment, and employment training that are often overlooked by other funding sources. Your support can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals in our community.

The Filomena C. Peloro Scholarship, offered by the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), aims to support outstanding Italian American students pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher and demonstrate financial need, alongside an active NIAF membership. This scholarship emphasizes cultural heritage and the contributions of Italians to American society, fostering academic excellence and community engagement among students.

The Ernest L. Pellegri Scholarship, offered by the National Italian American Foundation, supports outstanding Italian American students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in Latin or related fields. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher. This scholarship aims to encourage the preservation of Italian culture and heritage while promoting academic excellence within the community.

The Emanuele Gianturco Memorial Scholarship, offered by the National Italian American Foundation, supports outstanding Italian American students who are first-generation college attendees, demonstrating financial need and maintaining a GPA of 3.5 or higher. Applicants must hold an active NIAF membership and be enrolled in a U.S. accredited institution. This scholarship aims to encourage the preservation of Italian heritage and culture among students while facilitating their academic pursuits.