Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Oregon

The DEWALT Trades Scholarship, offered by the SkillPointe Foundation, supports individuals pursuing education in high-demand trade fields such as construction, manufacturing, and mechanics. This scholarship covers essential costs like tuition, tools, and transportation. Open to applicants 17 years and older who are enrolled in accredited programs, it aims to bridge the skills gap in the U.S. and create opportunities for a diverse range of students seeking to enhance their careers.

The Simeon J. Fortin Charitable Foundation, founded in 1986, champions cancer research initiatives aimed at finding a cure. It supports relevant projects and fellowships within medical and research institutions, ensuring a significant impact on health-related research. The grant review process is conducted by The Medical Foundation, in coordination with the King Trust Postdoctoral Fellowships, enhancing collaboration and funding opportunities for innovative research in oncology.

The NACRJ Mini-Grants provide funding of up to $500 for projects promoting community and restorative justice. Launched in 2016, the initiative has allocated over $60,000 to support NACRJ members nationwide. This unique opportunity fosters impactful projects and enhances visibility within the restorative justice community. Applications are accepted biannually, with a focus on empowering organizations and individuals committed to restorative practices. Members are encouraged to apply for this essential funding to further their meaningful endeavors.

The NACRJ Impact Grant, initiated in 2016, has provided over $60,000 to NACRJ members to support community and restorative justice projects. This grant is available annually, offering up to $3,000 to members for innovative initiatives that foster community impact. By applying, members can gain funding, visibility, and networking opportunities within the NACRJ and the broader restorative justice community, helping to empower meaningful projects that align with restorative justice principles.

The Women’s Shelters Grant, provided by the AKC Humane Fund, offers financial assistance to domestic abuse shelters that accommodate pets. This grant aims to empower shelters to break the cycle of domestic violence by allowing women to keep their beloved pets during difficult times. By supporting organizations that facilitate this, the AKC Humane Fund fosters a community where both women and animals can find safety and solace together.

The AGS Infrastructure Cluster oversees critical facilities for atmospheric and geospace sciences research, primarily focusing on the NSF National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR). Located in Boulder, Colorado, NCAR serves as a hub for atmospheric science, providing advanced computer models, supercomputing, and extensive data to support university researchers. Through a cooperative agreement with the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research, NCAR trains the next generation of Earth system scientists, ensuring the growth of this vital field.

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.

The AO Spine NA Fellowship Award aims to fund post-graduate fellowship programs at institutions in North America, covering expenses such as stipends, research, and education. This award is limited in number and contingent upon available funding as determined by the AO Spine NA Board. Applications undergo a rigorous review based on established criteria, while the engagement of faculty and compliance with eligibility requirements are critical for the selection process.

The Donald Mazzoni Scholarship, offered by the National Italian American Foundation, is designed for two exemplary Italian American undergraduate students majoring in business. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate at least 50% Italian heritage, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and possess an active NIAF membership. This scholarship aims to support students dedicated to preserving Italian culture and heritage while pursuing their academic goals in the United States.

The Caroline Guarini Memorial Scholarship, offered by the National Italian American Foundation, supports outstanding Italian American students majoring in music or related fields. Eligible applicants must be from New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut, maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher, and hold an active NIAF membership. This scholarship aims to foster musical talent while honoring Italian heritage and culture.

The A. Lucchetti Martino Scholarship is awarded to outstanding Italian American undergraduate students majoring in International Relations, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.5. Applicants must hold an active NIAF Membership, which can be obtained through a parent or grandparent. This scholarship fosters commitment to Italian culture and heritage while supporting students enrolled full-time in U.S. accredited institutions. The National Italian American Foundation, a non-profit organization, promotes the rich traditions and contributions of Italian Americans.

The ASTRO-ACS Clinician Scientist Development Award aims to support full-time faculty members in radiation oncology who aspire to become independent investigators. Co-funded by the American Cancer Society and the American Society for Radiation Oncology, this grant provides $135,000 per year for 3 to 5 years, along with 8% allowable indirect costs. It encourages applications from underrepresented groups and those with disabilities, fostering diversity in cancer research.

The Agnes E. Vaghi Scholarship, offered by the National Italian American Foundation, supports outstanding female Italian American undergraduates majoring in Italian, English, literature, or journalism. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher and hold an active NIAF membership, which can be obtained through a parent or grandparent. This scholarship aims to promote the rich cultural heritage of Italian Americans while encouraging academic excellence.

The Health Services Research Grants, offered by the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research, focus on enhancing physical therapy services through evidence-based studies. Researchers are encouraged to explore areas such as therapy utilization, cost-effectiveness, and access barriers using rigorous methodologies. Proposals must align with the 2023 APTA Research Agenda, addressing topics that improve patient outcomes and care delivery, particularly in underserved populations. This initiative aims to elevate the role of physical therapists and optimize healthcare access.

The Garrison Area Scholarship Fund, supported by CommunityGiving, offers three $1,000 scholarships to local high school seniors pursuing higher education. This initiative aims to empower students from Aitkin, Brainerd, Crosby-Ironton, and Onamia. By fostering educational opportunities, the fund upholds the mission of CommunityGiving to strengthen local communities and inspire philanthropy. Eligible applicants must submit online applications and have a Scholarship Management System account to apply. Join us in supporting the future of our youth.

The Granite Scholarship Fund, established by the Granite Companies, offers scholarships to the children and grandchildren of employees, supporting their educational goals. With up to 30 scholarships of $2,000 available annually, this initiative aims to empower students, ensuring that their academic pursuits are supported as they strive for excellence. Eligibility requires maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher and enrollment in a two or four-year college or university. This fund exemplifies the commitment to community and education.

The GriffinHarte Foundation Grant aims to foster civil discourse surrounding contentious issues of fairness, equity, and identity. This nonprofit supports initiatives that promote understanding and respect through research and education, focusing on social and economic justice. Eligible applicants include individuals and organizations dedicated to exploring civility and its impact on community dialogues. The foundation emphasizes the importance of identity and diverse perspectives in shaping effective communication strategies. This grant presents an opportunity for meaningful engagement in vital societal conversations.

The ACS-ASTRO Felix Feng, MD Clinician Scientist Development Award supports practicing radiation oncologists engaged in research that enhances health across the cancer continuum. Funded by the American Cancer Society and ASTRO, this award provides $730,000 over three to five years, aiming to advance the field of radiation oncology and improve patient care through innovative research and collaboration.

The Disaster Resilience Program Fellowship supports low-income communities affected by disasters by mobilizing lawyers and law students to provide free civil legal aid. This initiative ensures access to essential legal services, helping families navigate recovery barriers. Attorney Fellows receive a salary while Student Fellows earn a stipend for their service. Participants engage in outreach, build community relationships, and receive comprehensive training to enhance their legal skills, contributing to the resilience of affected communities.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

Riopelle/Dowden Technical Scholarship Endowment (Regional)

Available to students from the five county area that are enrolled, or planning to enroll, in an associate's degree, certificate, or apprenticeship program.

The Bill and Joyce Coborn Memorial Scholarship supports Coborn's employees and their dependents pursuing private high school or post-secondary education. Offered by CommunityGiving, this scholarship provides up to 20 awards of $1,000 each, fostering educational advancement and community empowerment. Eligible applicants include high school seniors, college students, and graduate students who are children of Coborn's employees with at least one year of service. This initiative honors the legacy of Bill and Joyce Coborn while promoting lifelong learning.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

Ragland Bloem Scholarship Fund (Antrim and Kalkaska Counties)

Available to graduating seniors from Antrim or Kalkaska Counties who are planning to pursue education in environmental or related studies.

The Bernick Family Foundation Scholarship, provided by CommunityGiving, aims to support high school seniors in their pursuit of higher education. This scholarship recognizes well-rounded students from the Bernick Service Area who maintain a GPA of 3.0 or better. With 10 scholarships available, each worth $2,000, the foundation seeks to inspire philanthropy and empower local communities through education. Applications are accepted online, and candidates must have or create a Scholarship Management System account to apply.

The Arthur A. Cater Scholarship, administered by CommunityGiving, aims to empower high school seniors pursuing full-time education at St. Cloud Technical and Community College. This scholarship supports students from various high schools in the region, emphasizing the importance of local philanthropy and community engagement. By fostering educational opportunities, it helps create a lasting impact on students' lives and encourages future generations to give back to their communities.

The Andy and Carol Hilger Pro-Life Scholarship, offered by CommunityGiving, supports high school seniors and college students from the St. Cloud Diocese area who advocate for pro-life causes. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher and plan to enroll full-time in a two or four-year college. This scholarship reflects the Hilgers' commitment to empowering individuals and fostering community connections through education.

The Centers of Excellence Program, funded by the US HHS: HRSA, aims to improve health professions education for under-represented minority individuals. It provides grants to health schools and organizations to enhance academic performance, expand clinical education, and strengthen faculty recruitment. This initiative promotes strategic partnerships to develop a competitive applicant pool and supports research on health issues affecting minority groups, ensuring better health outcomes and career opportunities in the health professions.

Witness To Win Inc

Witness to Win, Inc. is a product of the Mathena family’s deep commitment to honoring God and God’s mission as stated in Matthew 28:19-20. These legacy values of giving and sharing were not only taught but were caught by the Mathena children. Many times, foundations are created to honor people and their legacy; however, Gary, Teresa, David, Melissa and John’s desire is to glorify the person of Jesus Christ and make Him known to all peoples. Therefore, the Mathena children unanimously decided to create the Witness to Win Foundation in 2017.

Over the past 10 years, the Mathena Family has given over $80M through their tithes and offerings to their local churches and to charitable organizations whose sole purpose is to share the love and message of Jesus Christ. 

Witness to Win Grant Program

To encourage and support charitable 501(c)(3) organizations who have as among their primary purpose to share and spread the gospel of Jesus Christ to the nations. These organizations will directly fulfill this purpose through Christian religious education and qualified Christian ministries. These charitable organizations must all be headquartered in the United States and must adhere to Christian, moral, and conservative standards of belief and conduct as specified in our Statements of Belief.