Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

Small Community Drinking Water Infrastructure Grant Program

The State of Nevada offers a grant program to help small communities pay for important drinking water infrastructure. This program was created by state law to support capital projects that are needed to meet requirements set by the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection, the Bureau of Safe Drinking Water, and the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act.

This program is designed to close the gap between what a project costs and what a community can afford. Communities are expected to contribute as much as they reasonably can before requesting state assistance. For larger projects, the community must finance as much of the work as possible at the local level, with the grant helping to cover the remaining need.

The grant program helps fund projects that improve drinking water systems and meet state and federal drinking water standards. Examples of eligible projects include:

• Building or upgrading water treatment facilities, intake structures, pumping plants, and transmission lines
• Replacing leaking water lines
• Replacing small pipelines to maintain water pressure during peak use
• Connecting dead end water lines to improve system circulation
• Rehabilitating springs to meet treatment rules
• Adding or replacing wells and pumps to improve water quality or provide backup supplies
• Repairing or replacing storage tanks to fix leaks or structural issues
• Installing water meters
• Adding fire hydrants
• Improving irrigation efficiency by lining canals, recovering or reusing water, or improving storage

The Captain Christopher Sullivan Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts, supports students from Princeton, MA who have completed their first year of college. This fund is part of over 40 scholarship opportunities aimed at fostering education in the region. With specific selection criteria established by donors, the scholarships address various educational needs, promoting growth and development for local students.

The Elizabeth Lord Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts, supports residents of Templeton pursuing postsecondary education. This fund is part of over 40 scholarship opportunities aimed at fostering education in the region, emphasizing community commitment to educational advancement. Applicants can benefit from specific selection criteria tailored to various educational needs, helping to empower students in their academic journeys.

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge

The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is a charitable organization that has served the independent cities of Staunton and Waynesboro, and the counties of Augusta, Highland and Nelson since 1992. 

Martin Lightsey Scholarship for Technical Education

The Martin Lightsey Scholarship for Technical Education was established to honor Martin Lightsey and all he achieved in the creation and subsequent success of Specialty Blades, Inc. (Cadence, Inc.), upon his stepping down as CEO of the company in 2002.

Description

The Martin Lightsey Scholarship for Technical Education was established in 2002 to provide funds for college scholarships to seniors residing in Staunton, Waynesboro and Augusta County, who intend to pursue or are currently pursuing technical education at a two-year or four-year college. Examples of technical education include but are not limited to degrees in engineering, math, chemistry, physics, computer sciences, statistics, and architecture and associate studies in areas such as quality control, process technology, manufacturing technology, machining, electrical and mechanical operations, and information technology.

Cadence, Inc. and the honoree of this scholarship, Martin Lightsey, value the many possible choices in the pursuit of technical education and careers. Many professional roles in the manufacturing sector require highly-specialized training, much of which can be obtained through community colleges. As such, Cadence Inc. and Mr. Lightsey welcome scholarship applications from students pursuing specific industry credentials, associate degrees, and bachelor degrees.

Selection Criteria Used by the Selection Committee

• Academic Merit
• Financial need
• Community service activities
• Leadership ability

The Make a Difference Day Grant, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, provides up to $200 to support nonprofit organizations and groups engaged in community projects within the Wenatchee Valley. This funding aims to enhance volunteer efforts for Make a Difference Day initiatives, which benefit various sectors including arts, education, and health. Applications are accepted from 501c3 charities and public agencies, with funds disbursed in mid-October.

Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation

Outdoor recreation is a cornerstone of Utah’s economy, generating over $9.5 billion annually, supporting 72,000 jobs, and fueling the state’s thriving tourism industry. It also contributes $737 million in state and local tax revenue while providing $4.3 billion in wages and salaries.

Recognizing the growing importance of outdoor recreation to Utah’s economy and quality of life, the Utah State Legislature established the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation in 2022. As part of the Utah Department of Natural Resources, the division unites the nation’s first Office of Outdoor Recreation with key state programs, including Utah’s Boating Program, Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Program, and outdoor recreation grants and planning. We also work collaboratively with DNR's Division of Law Enforcement Rangers. Dedicated to fostering a healthy and active lifestyle for all Utahns, the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation focuses on four key areas: expanding recreational access, promoting safety and education, ensuring responsible stewardship and sustainable visitation, and driving economic growth through outdoor recreation.

Boating Access Grant

The Boating Access (BA) grant program provides federal funds for facilities that create or improve public access for recreational boating opportunities. This program aims to enhance and maintain waterway accessibility while educating recreational boaters about environmental considerations.

Through strategic partnerships with state agencies, local governments, and non-governmental organizations, the program supports a broad spectrum of development initiatives; including renovation of existing facilities and implementation of essential boating infrastructure such as ramps, courtesy docks, and support facilities.

The Moore Community Fund Grant, established by the Moore Family, supports projects enhancing community quality of life, especially those benefiting youth and outdoor activities. Preference is given to initiatives involving young people, reflecting the family's historical ties to local educational and recreational programs. Nonprofits in Greenbrier, Monroe, and Pocahontas counties are eligible to apply for varying grant amounts based on fund earnings.

The Holomua Marine Initiative Strengthening Community Advocacy Grant, offered by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, aims to enhance advocacy capacity in community organizations across Hawai‘i. This funding opportunity supports groups working towards effective management of nearshore marine resources through a one-year Community Advocacy Cohort. Grants, up to $10,000, will assist in training and capacity-building initiatives, fostering collaboration, and strengthening advocacy knowledge to achieve local policy goals. Applications are encouraged from eligible community organizations.

The FKSI Scholarship Fund, managed by the Southern Illinois Community Foundation, aims to support high school graduates from Southern Illinois with $2,500 scholarships. This initiative focuses on empowering students who have faced significant hardships, such as losing parents or being in the foster care system. The fund encourages those pursuing careers in trades or technical fields and maintains a GPA requirement of 2.0 or higher, promoting educational opportunities for deserving youth.

The Gregory-Rye Scholarship Fund, established by the Southern Illinois Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Elmer Gregory and Leonard Rye. This scholarship aims to support Benton High School students pursuing higher education with awards of $10,000, distributed in four installments. With a minimum GPA of 2.00, this fund seeks to empower students to achieve their educational and career dreams, reflecting the values of philanthropy and community support in southern Illinois.

Southern Illinois Community Foundation

Our Vision

To engage the people of southern Illinois in building a tradition of philanthropy. The Southern Illinois Community Foundation is committed to creating an opportunity for donors to participate in local community development efforts to address the changing needs of our community through charitable giving.

Our Scholarships

We represent scholarships all across Southern Illinois with a variety of different missions, goals, and dreams. 

Harry Bertram Reynolds Scholarship Fund

This fund was established in memory of Harry Bertram Reynolds to benefit a graduating senior from a High School in Jefferson County, Illinois.

The Fossgreen Family Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students from the Elk Grove Unified School District pursuing education in teaching. Financial need is not a requirement, and applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 while being full-time students. Participation in school and community activities is mandatory. This scholarship aims to foster future educators, encouraging their academic and personal growth in a supportive environment.

The Friends of Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge Environmental Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students pursuing careers in wildlife management or environmental sciences. No financial need is required, and applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and be full-time students. Eligible schools include Elk Grove High and others within the district. This initiative aims to raise awareness and foster conservation education within the community.

The Friends of the Foundation Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students from various high schools in the Elk Grove area who aim to further their education at a four-year university or community college. This scholarship does not require financial need and mandates full-time enrollment, participation in school, and community activities. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, ensuring that dedicated individuals receive the assistance they need to succeed.

The Future Teachers Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports aspiring educators from the Elk Grove Unified School District. This scholarship is available to full-time students attending a four-year university or community college, with no specific financial need required. Applicants must engage in community activities and submit an essay reflecting on their community service experiences. Eligible schools include Elk Grove High and several others, with a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0.

The George & Virginia Signorotti, Pepsi-Cola Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students from the Elk Grove Unified School District. This scholarship is open to full-time students attending a 4-year university, community college, or vocational school, with no financial need requirement. Students are encouraged to participate in school and community activities and should include reflections on their community service in their personal statements.

The Hanford Sand & Gravel, Inc. Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students from the Elk Grove Unified School District pursuing higher education. This scholarship is specifically for those planning to establish female-owned businesses or work in construction. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and participate in community activities. The scholarship does not require financial need and is available for various post-secondary institutions.

The Home Field Advantage - Brian and Linda Myers Scholarship is offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation to support EGUSD seniors with at least a 3.0 GPA who are engaged in community service. This scholarship provides opportunities for students enrolling in community colleges, vocational schools, or four-year universities. Applicants are required to submit an essay detailing their community service experiences. Financial need is not a criterion for this scholarship.

The Jan Langston Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in public health, health education, nutrition, or related fields. It requires full-time enrollment and a minimum GPA of 3.5. Eligible candidates must be from specific high schools within the Elk Grove Unified School District. This scholarship is funded through community donations, showcasing local support for educational advancement.

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) is set to release a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) aimed at advancing the discovery of in vivo chemical probes for brain targets. Collaborating institutes include the National Eye Institute (NEI), National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), and National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). The initiative seeks to foster research into small molecules and novel biological targets related to brain diseases, encouraging innovative projects and collaborations.

The Elizabeth Pinkerton Family & History Happened Here Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, awards $1000 to students with a minimum GPA of 3.5. This scholarship targets full-time or part-time students interested in history and writing, encouraging community involvement. Applicants must submit an essay showcasing how community contributions enrich society. It aims to support students from various eligible schools in the Elk Grove area, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and historical appreciation.

The Elk Grove Chamber of Commerce Scholarship offers $2000 to students pursuing business or management fields at 4-year universities, community colleges, or vocational schools. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and participate in school and community activities. An essay expressing interest in business or management is required. This scholarship supports the educational aspirations of students in the Elk Grove Unified School District area, fostering academic growth and community engagement.

The Elk Grove Citizen of the Year Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, provides $1500 to students from the Elk Grove Unified School District planning to pursue teaching or special education. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate financial need. Participation in school and community activities is required, and the scholarship aims to support those dedicated to making a positive impact in education.

The Dr "A" Adreani's Leadership/Mentor Memorial Scholarship offers $2000 to high school students from the Elk Grove Unified School District who have demonstrated leadership or mentoring skills. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and must have attended Arnold Adreani Elementary. The scholarship encourages participation in school and community activities, requiring an essay that describes their mentoring experiences to promote personal development and career aspirations.

The EGUSD Staff and Former Students Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students pursuing higher education in the Elk Grove Unified School District. With a scholarship amount of $1000, applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and be full-time students. Participation in school and community activities is required, fostering engagement and commitment. This scholarship is a valuable opportunity for students aiming for a 4-year university or community college to advance their education.

The EGUSD Employees Scholarship, managed by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, offers a $1,000 award for students from the Elk Grove Unified School District. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and be full-time students at a 4-year university, community college, or vocational college. Participation in school and community activities is required, but there are no specified additional qualifications. This scholarship supports students in their pursuit of higher education.

The EGUSD 50th Anniversary Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, provides $1,250 to eligible students from various high schools in the Elk Grove area. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and participate in community activities, submitting an essay on their community service experiences. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing their post-secondary education at universities, community colleges, or vocational schools.