Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The August and Mary Sobotka Memorial Agriculture Award, offered by Montana State University, supports undergraduate students pursuing a degree in agriculture. This merit-based award considers various factors, including residency preferences for students from specific counties in Montana. The goal is to foster educational opportunities in agriculture, ensuring that talented individuals have access to financial support for their academic endeavors.

The Bacigalupo Business Scholarship at Montana State University offers financial support to Minnesota high school graduates pursuing a degree in business. This scholarship aims to reward students with exceptional academic records and potential for success. With varying award amounts, it is designed to make higher education accessible for talented individuals who are not residents of Montana. This initiative reflects the university's commitment to fostering educational opportunities for all eligible students.

The J. Thomas Dutro Jr. Student Award, presented by the Paleontological Research Institution, recognizes the significance of systematic research in paleontology. This $500 award is open to graduate students (Masters or Ph.D.) engaged in systematic paleontology research. Eligible expenses include research supplies, bench fees, and travel for fieldwork or conferences, supporting the academic growth of promising paleontologists.

2026-2027 Special Education Specialized Support (SESS)

Program Description

The purpose of this program is to support the dissemination and implementation of state-level technical assistance, professional development, and project support (e.g., pass-through funds) in the following areas of special education: services to students, ages birth through 21 years of age, who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH), deafblind (DB), blind and visually impaired (BVI), as well as students receiving compensatory services and related services resulting from the closure of a charter school. A robust ecosystem of resources and trainings in these areas was developed from 2019-2024; this grant will support the targeted implementation of these resources and trainings to scale their usage across the state. The audience for the technical assistance and professional development provided through this grant primarily includes school system administrators, educators, and support staff with the ultimate goal of improving special educator practice and outcomes for students with disabilities. TEA and the grantee will be supported in their endeavors with the help of ESC staff from all 20 regions in Texas.

The Pittsburgh Foundation's Equity and Social Justice Grants aim to combat mass incarceration by prioritizing community-led solutions. With a history of supporting vulnerable populations, these grants focus on civic participation and systemic policy changes. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) charities located in or serving Allegheny County. Grant amounts range from $10,000 to $150,000, emphasizing the importance of leadership from those directly affected by injustice.

The Fertility Grants (VIVA Program) by the Bob Woodruff Foundation offer vital financial support to wounded veterans facing infertility challenges due to their service-related conditions. Since its inception, the program has assisted over 100 veteran families in starting their own, highlighting a commitment to ensuring veterans have access to necessary fertility treatments. This initiative addresses the unique needs of veterans, recognizing that they experience infertility at nearly double the rate of the general population.

The Leonard Litz Foundation-Silver Connect Initiative aims to enhance the quality of life for LGBTQ+ older adults by providing grant funding to nonprofit organizations. This program addresses isolation and barriers faced by seniors, particularly those affected by disability, race, or economic hardship. By supporting community-driven models, Silver Connect promotes dignity, safety, and inclusion, ensuring that LGBTQ+ elders have access to necessary resources and affirming services across the Eastern United States.

The Harold and Thelma Hunter Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation Alliance, Inc., supports graduating seniors of Heritage Hills High School who demonstrate financial need and strong moral character. Established in memory of Harold Hunter, this annual scholarship aims to assist students pursuing post-secondary education with a minimum GPA of 2.8. Preference is given to applicants ranked in the 50th to 90th percentile of their class, encouraging community engagement and perseverance.

Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation scholarship funds are created by donors that recognize the importance of helping students achieve their educational goals, now and in the future. The funds’ creators select the criteria based on their interests and community needs.

Many scholarships are memorials, and lasting legacies of individuals and primarily serve... 

• Graduating high school seniors,
• Current college students 
• Returning college students 
• Post-graduates 
• Teachers

Shackley Scholarship

The Shackley Scholarship is awarded twice a year. This scholarship is for students who have resided in the School District. 81-R in Custer/Dawson Counth for at least five years.

The Waukesha Education Foundation Grants aim to enhance educational experiences for students in the Waukesha School District by providing funding for innovative and enrichment programs not covered by the district's budget. Applications are open to educators and staff, promoting creative opportunities that recognize quality work and extend core curriculum activities. The grants are solicited annually in spring, fostering community involvement in education.

The Rural Business Development Grants in New York aim to support small rural businesses by providing technical assistance and training. With no maximum grant amount, priority is given to smaller requests. Funded projects can include training, land acquisition, and community development, among others. Eligible areas include rural regions outside urban centers with populations of 50,000 or more. This initiative, funded by USDA Rural Development, fosters economic growth and sustainability in underserved communities.

The Rural Business Development Grants in New Jersey aim to enhance economic development and create jobs through financial support for eligible entities. Grants are available in two categories: Opportunity grants, which prioritize smaller requests, and Enterprise grants, designed for projects benefiting small and emerging businesses in rural areas. These grants can be utilized for various purposes, including training, land acquisition, pollution control, and community development, fostering sustainable growth in rural communities.

The Adult Education and Literacy Basic Grants, provided by the Illinois Community College Board, aim to enhance literacy and education for eligible adults, including incarcerated individuals. This program aligns with Title II of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014, supporting individuals in achieving a secondary diploma and transitioning into postsecondary education. It also focuses on assisting immigrants and English language learners in improving their skills and understanding of government responsibilities.

The OAC Expanded Arts Education Grants for Schools support arts education programs in Oklahoma that occur outside regular school hours. Schools can apply for up to $2,500 annually with a 10% cash match. These grants enhance academic performance, increase student engagement, and promote civic involvement. Arts education fosters creativity and critical thinking, benefiting students in various subjects. The program encourages sequential, hands-on learning led by qualified educators to provide meaningful arts experiences for students.

The Rural Business Development Grants in New Hampshire aim to support small rural businesses by providing technical assistance and training. While there is no maximum grant amount, applications from the Northeast Kingdom are capped at $200,000, and other regions at $50,000. The funds can be used for various projects including training, market research, and community development. This initiative is crucial for fostering economic growth in rural areas, ensuring sustainable business practices and enhancing local economies.

The Tribal Scholar Grant, offered by the Jeannette Rankin Foundation, supports women, nonbinary, and Two-Spirit students aged 25 and older attending Tribal Colleges. Grants of up to $2,500 annually are available, renewable for up to five years. This initiative aims to empower students pursuing technical or vocational education, associate’s, or bachelor’s degrees while addressing financial needs and promoting educational access for marginalized communities.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Nevada aim to foster economic growth and job creation in rural areas by providing financial assistance to eligible entities. The program offers two types of grants: Opportunity grants for community projects and Enterprise grants for small business support. While there is no maximum grant amount, smaller requests are prioritized. The funds can be utilized for various purposes, including training, infrastructure development, and strategic planning, contributing significantly to rural development.

The Orioles Scouting Scholarship Fund, established by the Fraternal Order of Orioles, provides a $500, non-renewable scholarship for higher education to Carbon County high school seniors involved in Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence with a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit an essay highlighting their community contributions. Preference is given to candidates with strong volunteer records, ensuring support for those committed to making a difference in their communities.

The Oklahoma Arts Council offers Classroom Supply Grants for Visual and Performing Arts, providing up to $500 annually for schools to purchase essential art supplies. This funding addresses the critical need identified by teachers for effective visual and performing arts education, enabling schools to maintain valuable programs that enhance student learning and creativity. Applications are due by August 22, 2025, and require a user account in the Fluxx grant portal.

The Marion B. Sewer Distinguished Scholarship for Undergraduates provides $2,000 to support students pursuing biochemistry and molecular biology, especially those from diverse backgrounds. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or residents, enrolled full-time in accredited institutions, and members of ASBMB. This scholarship aims to enhance diversity in the biomedical workforce and encourage ongoing engagement in scientific activities. Applications are open to all qualified candidates, with a focus on underrepresented groups.

Preservation Connecticut

We enhance and sustain the culture and vitality of Connecticut’s varied communities by preserving, protecting, and promoting historic places which embody the stories of our shared past and enrich our shared future.

For fifty years, we have successfully championed the protection of remarkable community assets all over the state by leveraging funding, advocating for places, providing education opportunities, forming partnerships, and promoting stewardship.

Charles Barlow Fund for Historic Preservation

With a generous $460,000 donation from the New Milford Trust for Historic Preservation, Preservation Connecticut is proud to launch the Charles Barlow Fund for Historic Preservation, an annual 1:1 matching grant program of up to $20,000 to support the preservation of historic properties in New Milford, CT through maintenance, restoration, strategic planning, and efforts to prevent demolition. The Fund is named in honor of Charles Beach Barlow (1926-2016), a longtime New Milford resident and philanthropist who supported a wide range of non-profit efforts, including historic preservation.

Scholarships for High School Seniors

Mid-Shore Community Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties, who are planning to attend a college, university, or trade school. In general, scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, financial need, and other criteria specified by the donor.

Kate Elliott Shannahan Trades Scholarship

Awarded to students graduating from Talbot County Public Schools, who are planning to attend a vocational, trade, or career school.

The College Well-Being Funding Opportunity aims to enhance the health of college students through innovative programs and research. Offered by the American College Health Foundation, it provides up to two awards of $3,500 to eligible institutions for improving campus infrastructure that promotes student well-being. This initiative encourages creativity and collaboration among campus health professionals to develop effective, measurable outcomes in student wellness. By fostering a culture of well-being, the foundation seeks to address the evolving needs of contemporary students.

The Artist-in-Residence Program at Kala Art Institute provides artists with 24-hour access to various creative facilities, including printmaking workshops and digital labs. Artists can benefit from professional development resources, potential exhibition opportunities, and participation in a vibrant artist community. With subsidized and fully funded residency options available, including specific programs for veterans and awards, Kala supports artists in advancing their skills and projects in a collaborative environment.

Scholarships for High School Seniors

Mid-Shore Community Foundation awards scholarships to high school seniors in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties, who are planning to attend a college, university, or trade school. In general, scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic achievement, community service, financial need, and other criteria specified by the donor.

Omer and Marie Dulin Scholarship

Awarded to Mid-Shore students, who are planning to pursue programs in Agriculture.

The Community Benefit Initiative Reinvestment (CBIR) Grant supports one-year projects aimed at enhancing healthcare access in Eastern Oregon. Eligible applicants include healthcare providers and community organizations focused on non-insured services. Technical assistance is mandatory for all applicants. Projects addressing county-specific incentive measures are prioritized. This grant offers a critical opportunity for 2025 CBIR-funded projects to extend their impact and improve healthcare outcomes in the region.