Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

The Community Foundation proudly supports students in Portage and Waushara counties with over $325,000 in scholarships annually, thanks to the generosity of local individuals and families. Award amounts range from $500 to $40,000, opening doors to educational opportunities.

The Community Foundation provides scholarships for a wide range of students, including high school seniors, college students, non-traditional learners, and those pursuing specific fields of study.

Debbie Callahan Arts Scholarship

Must be attending an arts school or pursuing an arts major.

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties

The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc., strengthens our communities by leading philanthropy and solutions through our direct work in partnership with donors, nonprofits and the community. Our 501(c)3 nonprofit Foundation is the foremost resource for convening partners to elevate people, improve lives and make our community a better place to live.

Grants & Scholarships

Grants power our nonprofit partners on the frontlines of pressing local issues, filling the opportunity gaps through direct-to-people programming.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors. 

The Community Foundation offers both need and merit based scholarships.

Arthur C. Tilley Memorial Scholarship Fund

Scholarship Eligibility

• Graduating high school senior from any Palm Beach or Martin County high school.
• Must have “C” average or better in HS. Based on financial need.
• Attend 2 or 4-year college or university with preference for students pursing traditional or non-traditional tech training leading to a cert or degree in chosen field.

Everett Wilimek Endowment for Orchestral String Studies Grant

The Everett Wilimek Endowment for Orchestral String Studies fund provides support for young people ages five to fifteen living in the Bemidji area, the opportunity to study violin, viola, cello, or bass. Funding requests in the amount of $250 – $1,500.00 will be considered.

The Combined Pilot Research Grants by the Plastic Surgery Foundation (PSF) and the American Association of Plastic Surgeons (AAPS) aim to support innovative pilot studies in hand surgery and plastic surgery. Grants of up to $10,000 are provided for projects that enhance scientific knowledge and clinical practices. Eligibility requires applicants to be MDs, DOs, or PhDs in U.S. or Canadian institutions, and membership in AAPS is encouraged to facilitate collaboration and mentorship.

The SPC Cares Foundation

The SPC Cares Foundation was established in 2024 as a way for SPC Credit Union to strategically support four key development issues identified within our community: Hunger, Housing, Employment, & Education. The Foundation supports our local communities through monetary donations, in-kind donation drives, and volunteerism.

SPC Scholarship Fund

SPC Scholarships are available to improve the lives of Members who want to further their education. Scholarship opportunities are available for high school students entering college, adults returning to college, and children of SPC CU employees and board members.

Applications are considered on both academic and needs-based criteria.

These funds are provided by SPC Credit Union in partnership with the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation.

The Gene M. Shoemaker Scholarship, offered by the American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG), aims to support graduate students in Texas pursuing earth science degrees. Named after Dr. Gene M. Shoemaker, a pioneer in astrogeology, this scholarship honors his contributions to identifying impact craters and promoting exploration beyond Earth. It seeks to encourage talented students who demonstrate potential for significant contributions in their fields and society.

The SPC Cares Foundation

The SPC Cares Foundation was established in 2024 as a way for SPC Credit Union to strategically support four key development issues identified within our community: Hunger, Housing, Employment, & Education. The Foundation supports our local communities through monetary donations, in-kind donation drives, and volunteerism.

Member Hardship Fund

SPC Cares Foundation's Member Hardship Fund provides financial assistance up to $1,500 in the form of a grant to Members who are experiencing financial hardship due to events beyond their control, including disasters, extended illnesses or injuries, and other special situations. The Member Hardship Fund does not aid with non-emergency situations or financial difficulties due to poor financial management, judgement, or negligence. Assistance for emergencies and crisis situations are considered on a case-by-case basis, and requested funding is not guaranteed.

This fund is intended to provide relief to SPC Members who are currently experiencing financial hardship. In accordance with the IRS, financial hardship must be demonstrated to receive grant funding and is understood to mean negative household income, meaning there is not enough income or limited to no savings to meet your required financial obligations. 

The PVA Education Foundation Grant Program, offered by the Paralyzed Veterans of America, supports innovative projects aimed at improving the lives of individuals with spinal cord injury and disease (SCI/D). Grants of up to $75,000 are available for initiatives in consumer education, professional development for healthcare providers, and research translation. This funding enables the development of essential educational tools and resources to enhance health, independence, and quality of life for the SCI/D community.

About NYFA

We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit service organization that offers in-person and virtual arts programs, services, and opportunities, tailored to the needs of our creative community.

Our Mission

Established in 1971, the mission of the New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA) is to empower artists in all disciplines, as well as cultural workers, to achieve success on their own terms by providing critical support, resources, and opportunities. NYFA envisions a world where artists thrive in the practice and expression of their creative work, a world that celebrates and supports them. We serve approximately 1M constituents in person and online, annually, through four flagship programs: Learning, Awards & Grants, Fiscal Sponsorship, and Online Resources.

Artist as Entrepreneur Program

An intensive professional development program for artists of all disciplines, ranging from 1 to 3.5 days.

The NYSCA/NYFA Artist as Entrepreneur Program is an intensive professional development opportunity that serves artists and creatives of all disciplines (including visual, literary, and performing arts, among others). This 3.5 day program delves into the fundamental principles of sustainability in the arts, empowering artists with the tools to imagine and pursue success as they define it.

Whether you’re looking for a shift in thinking, strategies for your arts/creative business, or peer networks, this program provides dynamic planning tools for building a blueprint for your creative practice or arts project.

This program is made possible through New York State Council on the Arts, State & Local Partnerships with the support of the Governor’s Office and the New York State Legislature.

NYSCA/NYFA Artist as Entrepreneur Program, Presented by The ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes

Artists of all disciplines based in Cattaraugus, Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben, and Tioga Counties in New York State are encouraged to apply to participate in this FREE entrepreneurial program to be presented in Corning, NY by Arts Council of the Southern Finger Lakes from November 12-15, 2026.

The Andrew Mozola Scholarship, funded by the American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG), supports undergraduate students majoring in geology. This scholarship helps cover college education costs and promotes student engagement with AIPG. Eligible applicants must be AIPG student members, have a minimum GPA of 3.0 overall and 3.5 in their major, and be sophomores or higher. AIPG has been advocating for geoscientists since 1963.

The NJ Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) offers financial assistance to eligible partners for purchasing agricultural land easements, helping to preserve cropland, grassland, and pastureland from non-agricultural use. With NRCS contributing up to 75% of the fair market value for special grasslands, the program ensures long-term conservation of vital agricultural resources in New Jersey, promoting sustainable farming and protecting essential habitats for endangered species.

The Recreational Trails Program in Nebraska offers funding for developing and maintaining recreational trails, supporting activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Grants range from $50,000 to $250,000, with a requirement for applicants to provide 20% of project costs. The program is overseen by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, ensuring that various trail-related projects, including maintenance and construction, receive financial support to enhance outdoor recreational opportunities.

The AIPG Pennsylvania Section Scholarships support undergraduate geology students in Pennsylvania, helping cover educational costs and encouraging their involvement with the American Institute of Professional Geologists. Eligible applicants must be at least sophomores, enrolled in accredited institutions, and be AIPG student members. This initiative not only promotes academic achievement but also fosters a commitment to professional standards and advocacy within the geological sciences community.

The NJ Emergency Watershed Protection Program provides critical technical and financial support to communities facing imminent threats from natural disasters like floods and erosion. Crucially, it doesn't require a formal disaster declaration, allowing for swift action. Assistance includes debris removal, streambank restoration, and land buyouts to mitigate future risks. The program emphasizes collaboration with local sponsors to ensure effective watershed management and environmental sustainability.

The AIPG MN Undergraduate Student Grant supports undergraduate geoscience students in Minnesota, offering at least two grants of up to $1,500 each. Eligible applicants must be in their junior or senior year with a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and must be Student Members of AIPG. This initiative aims to promote the geological sciences and encourage high ethical standards among students pursuing geology, fostering their academic and professional development.

The Bill Armstrong Grant, established by the New Mexico Potters and Clay Artists, honors a founding member dedicated to ceramics education. This annual grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations and educational institutions in New Mexico, providing funding for supplies, artist contracts, and promotional activities related to ceramic art. Awards up to $1000 are available, contingent on Board approval based on merit and specific needs. This initiative fosters creativity and excellence in the clay arts community.

The Americana Foundation's American Heritage Grant aims to support projects that broaden inclusivity in early American art and narratives, especially for underrepresented groups. Recognizing the historical significance of Americana, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote understanding and appreciation of America's diverse heritage. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and municipal entities. The foundation encourages innovative projects that reinterpret early American material culture, fostering a deeper connection to the past for future generations.

Community Foundation for Northern Virginia

Founded in 1978, the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia is a tax-exempt trusted public charity that advances equity through philanthropy and community leadership. Its work is guided by a strategic plan that advances four key priorities for the region:

• Social and Economic Mobility
• Opportunities for All
• Inclusive Systems of Economic Growth
• Community Resilience

Plein Environmental Scholarship Fund

The Plein Environmental Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to benefit graduating high school seniors and current NVCC students in need of financial assistance pursuing an associate degree at Northern Virginia Community College and intending to receive admission to a four-year university to pursue a degree in an environmental-related field.

The CalAgPlate Grant Program, administered by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, offers funding for agricultural education and leadership initiatives targeting students across K-12, post-secondary, and adult education levels. This program is supported by proceeds from specialized agricultural-themed license plates sold through the DMV, aiming to enhance awareness and engagement in agricultural practices among California's diverse educational communities.

The Supreme Basketball Player Scholarship is designed to provide financial assistance to young athletes in Nebraska and surrounding states. This initiative by Supreme Basketball ensures that no child is turned away from basketball programs due to financial constraints. With a focus on player development, the scholarship supports youth from Pre-K to 12th grade, allowing them to participate in camps, clinics, and select club teams, fostering their skills and passion for the game.

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Dr Don Fager Nursing Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to current or previous Wenatchee Valley College nursing students seeking further education in a nursing program at an accredited school in the United States of America.

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Douglas County Waste Management Environmental Studies College Scholarship

The Douglas County Waste Management Environmental Studies College Scholarship was established in 2005 to support Douglas County students seeking further education in environmental engineering or the area of environmental sciences. The committee seeks to award students who plan to major in one of these fields at an accredited educational program in the United States.

The Karl A. Bickel and Madira Bickel Journalistic Scholarship Fund supports journalism education by providing grants to accredited colleges and universities with journalism programs. Established from Karl A. Bickel's Last Will and Testament, the fund aims to assist deserving students in their pursuit of journalism, ensuring they receive the necessary financial backing to succeed in their studies and future careers.

Daviess County Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Daviess County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

The Community Foundation can help you...

• Make a difference where it matters
• Invest in the future of the community you love
• Create greater good together

Lawrell Ray Hilgeman Memorial Scholarship

Annual scholarship created by Veale Creek Players in memory of Lawrell Ray Hilgeman.

Award Amount

• $1,020

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

George and Mary Matijevich Scholarship Fund

For a current year graduating senior from Burgettstown High School, Avella High School, or Fort Cherry High School, who demonstrates financial need and is pursuing post-secondary education in electronics, mechanics, mechatronics, machine tool technology or a related field. 

The Grow Wild Grant Program, offered by the National Wilderness Stewardship Alliance, aims to establish a wilderness stewardship group for every Wilderness area in the National Wilderness Preservation System. This initiative supports start-up groups and existing organizations seeking to expand their impact. Funded by The David Berolzheimer Foundation, it honors Elaine Dermody, a dedicated wilderness champion. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized nonprofits and those with qualified fiscal sponsors.

The Uncommon Leader Impact Award, presented by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, honors non-C-suite employees at 501(c)(3) public charities making significant contributions to economic mobility in Kansas City. Awarded biennially, it recognizes those demonstrating community impact, equity, collaboration, and innovation. In December, one recipient will receive $50,000 and $100,000 for their organization, underscoring the foundation's commitment to fostering sustainable change and uplifting underrepresented voices within the community.