Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Oregon

Founded in 2016, this program supports nonfiction filmmakers or filmmaking teams working on their first or second feature-length documentary.

In this year-long program, 9 filmmakers will receive:

• $40,000 USD in grant funding for the production of their feature-length film
• Mentorship with Chicken & Egg Films team members
• Two creative retreats focused on career building and creative development
• Travel stipend for director and producer upon acceptance to a forum or market during program year
• Tailored industry meetings and funder connections
• Peer support from their cohort

You do not need a fiscal sponsor to apply for the (Egg)celerator Lab. However, if you are selected for the Lab, you must secure a US fiscal sponsor, or be a 501(c)(3), to receive the funds. If granted, we can help advise on finding a fiscal sponsor. 

The PLTW Gateway - Program Expansion initiative, led by Burns & McDonnell in partnership with Project Lead The Way (PLTW), aims to enhance STEM education by increasing access to PLTW programs for students in eligible communities. This program empowers students through real-world applied learning experiences, promoting essential skills for college and careers. Grants will support schools in expanding their existing PLTW Gateway programs starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, fostering a brighter future through education.

Nurses Educational Funds

Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. depends solely on donations to advance our only mission, to promote nursing leadership through annual scholarship support for professional nurses seeking masters and doctoral degrees in nursing education, practice, research, and administration.

NEF’s only purpose is to provide nursing scholarship assistance to make graduate level nursing education possible. NEF is one of the largest, national, private, professionally endorsed source of funds for advanced nursing study with over one hundred years of service to and for professional nursing. NEF is a non-profit organization with 501(c) status.

Margaret Gould Tyson Scholarship

Dr. Tyson was a very active NEF Board member for many years and the Dean at Hunter Bellevue School of Nursing in New York City. Since her death in 2008, the Margaret Gould Tyson scholarship has been given annually to a doctoral applicant studying nursing education.

The PLTW Gateway - New Program, in partnership with Burns & McDonnell, aims to enhance student engagement in STEM by providing teachers with essential resources and support. Starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, eligible schools can apply for grants to introduce and expand PLTW programs, fostering real-world skills through applied learning. This initiative targets schools with significant free and reduced-price lunch populations, promoting equity in education across various U.S. counties.

Nurses Educational Funds

Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. depends solely on donations to advance our only mission, to promote nursing leadership through annual scholarship support for professional nurses seeking masters and doctoral degrees in nursing education, practice, research, and administration.

NEF’s only purpose is to provide nursing scholarship assistance to make graduate level nursing education possible. NEF is one of the largest, national, private, professionally endorsed source of funds for advanced nursing study with over one hundred years of service to and for professional nursing. NEF is a non-profit organization with 501(c) status.

Margaret L. McClure Scholarship

Created in 2020, by Margaret L. McClure, EdD, RN, FAAN, together with NEF. This scholarship fund recognizes Dr. McClure’s distinguished career. Her many accomplishments include: leading the team that conducted the original research study responsible for the Magnet Hospital program under the auspices of the American Academy of Nursing. She concluded her full-time career at the New York University Medical Center, where through the courses of two decades, she served as the executive director of nursing and administrator for hospital and institutional affairs and as vice president for hospital operations. She also served in the United States Army Nurse Corps Reserve and retired with the rank of colonel.

Dr. McClure has served Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. as a board member, officer, and now emeritus member upon her retirement. This scholarship recognizes graduate nurse leaders for their academic, research, administration, and health care policy roles.

The Packaging Innovation Program by the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (FFAR) seeks innovative research proposals to develop sustainable packaging alternatives for U.S. specialty crops. With increasing restrictions on single-use plastics, this initiative aims to enhance global market access for U.S. producers. Collaborating with Clemson University and the Foundation for Fresh Produce, the program supports three research tracks, focusing on applied R&D, technology acceleration, and pilot-scale manufacturing projects to advance eco-friendly packaging solutions.

The Dunkirk Community Funds: Dr. H. L. Shroyer Christian Love Scholarship, established in 1970, provides scholarships to high school graduates from Jay County and nearby areas who exemplify Christ’s love in their daily lives. The scholarship aims to support students who demonstrate strong moral character and faith through an essay on the significance of Christ’s love. This fund was transferred to the Portland Foundation in 2023, enhancing its mission to foster community growth and opportunity.

Cumberland Community Foundation ("CCF") manages more than 60 scholarship endowment funds created by local individuals, families, civic organizations, and corporations who want to provide a path to higher education for future generations. 

Each year, Cumberland Community Foundation announces more than $1,000,000 in college scholarships to students from southeastern North Carolina.

Manning Family Scholarship

Nontraditional student - includes delayed enrollment, employment status, part time enrollment, financial independence, has dependents or other characteristics as set by the Foundation.

The WesTex Drilling Co – Robt. B. Cockrell Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports graduating seniors from select Abilene high schools. Applicants must have a 3.5 GPA and plan to pursue careers in engineering, science, or math. Scholarships range from $500 to over $5,000, with payments directed to educational institutions in August and January. This fund is part of a larger initiative to assist students in achieving their educational goals.

The Todd Moore Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors a passionate golfer and student. This scholarship supports high school seniors from select schools who have played varsity golf. Awards range from $500 to over $5,000, with payments made directly to educational institutions. Todd's legacy lives on through this scholarship, reflecting his love for golf and education. Eligible students must demonstrate academic commitment and athletic participation in golf during high school.

The Stanley and Claudie Wilson Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports deserving students from Taylor County and surrounding areas who aim to pursue higher education, particularly in legal or literary fields. Applicants must be graduates in the top 20% of their class or possess a minimum 3.0 GPA. Scholarships range from $500 to over $5,000, with awards sent directly to educational institutions for fall and spring semesters.

The IBMA Foundation is pleased to announce the permanent endowment of the Rick Lang Music Songwriter Scholarship, funded by a $50,000 gift from Rick and Wendy Lang of New Hampshire. Rick Lang is a GRAMMY-nominated writer who serves as the chair of the IBMA Songwriter Committee and volunteers with the IBMA Songwriter Mentor Program.

The Rick Lang Music Songwriter Scholarship is awarded annually to a student planning to study songwriting at the college level. Applicants are not required to have a declared major in songwriting, but they must already have demonstrated skills as a songwriter and plan to further their study of the art on a higher education level. Applicants must be current IBMA members. 

The first two recipients of this scholarship were Heather Alley (2020), a student at Morehead State University in Morehead, KY, and Jessica Lang (2021, no relation to the donors), a student at Belmont University in Nashville, TN.

“Our goal with the scholarship is to help our youth be able to afford to further their educations in the music field and realize their dreams,” the Langs said. “Young people are the future of bluegrass music, and we are glad to be able to help them along their journey! We are beyond excited about finally endowing the scholarship. This means it will perpetuate and be available to students each and every year.”

The new endowed fund is held at the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee in Nashville, TN, which invests and administers more than $500 million in charitable funds. The Rick Lang Music Songwriter Endowment Fund will distribute annual income to the IBMA Foundation to use in funding one or more Rick Lang Music Songwriter college scholarships each year and for expenses of administering that scholarship program.

Gifts to support this endowed scholarship are welcome from additional individuals, organizations and corporations interested in supporting the future of bluegrass songwriting.  

Bethany's Butterflies Scholarship Program, managed by the St. Croix Valley Foundation, offers up to $500 for Wisconsin students aged 21 or younger with an Individualized Education Program (IEP). This scholarship supports enhanced learning and recreational experiences in Polk, St. Croix, or Pierce County. Applications are reviewed monthly without a hard deadline, as long as funds are available. This initiative honors the memory of Bethany Mazur, aiming to create lasting impacts through educational opportunities.

The Neil Rosenberg Bluegrass Scholar Award, presented by the IBMA Foundation, recognizes emerging academic scholars who deliver exceptional research on bluegrass music at juried conferences. Recipients earn a $500 honorarium and entry to the IBMA Business Conference and Awards Show. This award honors Neil Rosenberg, a prominent bluegrass historian, and aims to support graduate students and recent PhDs in their scholarly endeavors, promoting the preservation and study of bluegrass culture.

The African-American Community Foundation - Paul R. and Frieda M. Miller Memorial Scholarship, managed by The Dayton Foundation, offers financial support to African-American high school seniors in Montgomery County planning to attend historically Black colleges. This scholarship honors the legacy of educators Paul R. and Frieda M. Miller, aiming to promote educational success. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate financial need, with preference for those majoring in education.

The African-American Community Foundation offers the Pearl A. Dale and Audrey Parker Scholarship to support students who demonstrate resilience and academic achievement. Established by The Dayton Foundation, this scholarship honors the legacy of Pearl Dale, who overcame significant barriers in her education. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, score at least 21 on the ACT, and demonstrate financial need. This initiative fosters educational opportunities for African-American students, ensuring they have the resources to succeed.

The African-American Community Foundation - Robert S. Early, Sr. Memorial Youth Scholarship, established in 2017 by the Roosevelt High School Class of 1968, supports African-American graduates from Montgomery County high schools. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and be accepted into an accredited college or vocational program. The scholarship emphasizes participation in sports, particularly golf, baseball, or softball, honoring Robert S. Early's legacy as a dedicated community member and scholar.

The African-American Community Foundation - Scott Neal Simpson Scholarship, established in 1999 by The Dayton Foundation, honors Scott Simpson, a promising athlete and scholar. This scholarship supports Montgomery County high school graduates pursuing higher education at accredited institutions. With a focus on leadership, academic achievement, and community involvement, it aims to empower students who demonstrate resilience and dedication to their education, fostering a brighter future for the community.

The Mike Auldridge Memorial Scholarship, established by the IBMA Foundation, honors the legacy of Bluegrass Hall of Fame member Mike Auldridge. It awards a $1,000 to $2,000 scholarship to students studying Dobro, steel guitar, or acoustic guitar at the college level. Applications are due by June 1 for the fall semester. This initiative supports the foundation's goal of fostering bluegrass music education and preserving its rich heritage.

The Katy Daley Broadcast Media & Sound Engineering Scholarship, funded by the IBMA Foundation, supports individuals pursuing studies in broadcasting or sound engineering with a bluegrass music focus. Annually, $2,000 scholarships are available to current IBMA members, including adults seeking continuing education. Eligible fields include radio, television, digital media, and sound engineering. The application deadline is June 1 for fall semester scholarships, promoting professional involvement in the bluegrass music industry.

The Dayton Daily News Si Burick Scholarship honors the legacy of sports editor Si Burick, awarded annually to a graduating senior from specific counties in Ohio pursuing journalism. The scholarship emphasizes academic success and journalistic aspirations, supporting students with a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrated financial need. Established by The Dayton Foundation, this initiative reflects a commitment to fostering talent in journalism while contributing to the community's cultural and educational landscape.

The Dorothy Reynolds Scholarship, established by The Dayton Foundation in 2013, supports seniors graduating from Dayton Public High Schools or members of St. Benedict the Moor Church. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, demonstrate leadership, provide community service records, and show financial need. Additionally, applicants must submit proof of acceptance to an accredited college or university. This scholarship aims to empower students in the Greater Dayton area to pursue higher education.

The Dunbar High School - Carson/Byars Scholarship Fund, established by The Dayton Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Dayton Public Schools who have participated in varsity sports. This scholarship aims to recognize scholar-athletes who demonstrate academic excellence, community involvement, and personal growth. By providing financial assistance, the fund encourages these students to pursue higher education and continue their journey of success. The Dayton Foundation, a key philanthropic partner in Greater Dayton, has a long history of supporting education and community development.

The Mount Sinai Hospital School of Nursing offers the Edith G. Ryan and Joan Herman Bilder Scholarship for master's and doctoral nursing students. Established in 2024, it honors distinguished alumni and supports those with a minimum GPA of 3.6. Applicants must have at least two semesters of study remaining and meet specific eligibility criteria, including current RN licensure and national nursing association membership. This scholarship aims to promote nursing leadership and academic excellence.

The Hearst Journalism Awards Program, established in 1960, supports journalism education at the collegiate level by offering scholarships for outstanding performance. The 2024-2025 program includes 14 competitions across various media forms, with awards totaling up to $700,000. Participation is open to undergraduate journalism majors and minors at ACEJMC-accredited institutions. The program aims to encourage excellence in journalism and provides financial support to both students and their schools.

Cumberland Community Foundation ("CCF") manages more than 60 scholarship endowment funds created by local individuals, families, civic organizations, and corporations who want to provide a path to higher education for future generations. 

Each year, Cumberland Community Foundation announces more than $1,000,000 in college scholarships to students from southeastern North Carolina.

Dorothy Gilmore FCCYC and Monroe Evans Scholarships

Graduating senior from any high school in Cumberland County.

The Jan Harp Domene Diversity and Inclusion Awards, established by the National PTA, recognize excellence in diversity, equity, and inclusion among PTAs. These awards honor outstanding efforts to foster inclusivity and end discrimination, celebrating PTAs that actively promote these values. Each year, three awards are granted to state, district, and local PTAs, with winners receiving cash awards, plaques, and recognition at the National PTA Convention, enhancing community engagement and commitment to educational equity.