Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Oregon

The Research Foundation of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons offers a Career Development Award to support early career investigators in colorectal surgery. With a funding of $75,000 per year for two years, this award emphasizes mentorship and career growth. Applicants must be within five years of their first faculty position and demonstrate innovative research in colon and rectal diseases. The award aims to enhance academic careers while fostering advancements in surgical techniques.

The NIDA Research Education Program (R25) supports educational activities that enhance training in biomedical, behavioral, and clinical research. Aimed at clinicians and clinical researchers, this program focuses on increasing knowledge about substance use and related disorders. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time, with optional Letters of Intent recommended 30 days prior to the proposal deadline. This initiative is crucial for developing a skilled workforce to address the nation's research needs.

The Edna E. Harrell Community Children’s Fund Grant, managed by The Oregon Community Foundation, supports programs enhancing the lives of underserved youth in Baker County and North Powder. Established in 2014, it provides funding for various enrichment activities, including summer camps, after-school programs, and arts initiatives. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, churches, and schools, ensuring that children from financially constrained families have access to vital development opportunities.

Common Waters: Strengthening Community-based Coastal and Riverine Stewardship

Opportunity Overview

Projects supported by this RFP must be community-based stewardship initiatives (including but not limited to stewardship driven by Indigenous and descendant communities); they should be led by an individual with a strong connection to and/or an existing track record of work in the community(ies) where the project will take place, or by a member of the community themselves, and be designed in response to community needs. Projects can focus on a wide range of specific issues, including (but not limited to) local conservation and ecosystem restoration, climate change adaptation and resilience, or sustainable fishing/agriculture. The RFP will prioritize projects in National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions destinations, including the Arctic, Asia, Baja California, Costa Rica and Panama, Europe and the Mediterranean, Patagonia, the Peruvian Amazon, the Pacific Northwest, Southeast Alaska and British Columbia, the South Pacific, and the United Kingdom and Ireland. For more detailed information on targeted areas within these regions, please refer to the targeted areas document.

The ASTR Targeted Research Area Grant supports projects by scholars focusing on under-represented areas in theatre, dance, and performance studies. This includes research on Asian, African, Latin American, and Middle Eastern disciplines, as well as pre-1900 studies and essential translations. The grant, offering up to $3000, encourages recipients to publish their findings and collaborate with Theatre Survey editors. Eligibility extends to scholars with terminal degrees and graduate students, provided they are ASTR members.

The HEAL Initiative's Pain Research Enhancement Program (PREP) aims to support R15-eligible Principal Investigators in conducting vital pain research. This initiative fosters interdisciplinary partnerships and enhances the research environment for health trainees at eligible institutions. Key application deadlines include November 19, 2024, for standard submissions, with later dates for AIDS-related applications. Engaging students in these projects is a priority to advance pain research effectively.

The Union Home Foundation Grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that promote economic self-sufficiency through financial literacy and housing initiatives. Established in 2015, this grant has awarded over $2 million to various nonprofits across the U.S. Grants typically start at $1,000 and are available for a one-year period. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and can only apply once per year, following specific eligibility criteria.

The AWWA Jacobs Holly A. Cornell Scholarship, established in 1990, supports graduate students pursuing water supply and treatment studies. Sponsored by Jacobs/CH2M, this $10,000 scholarship is aimed at first-generation college graduates or those who have faced economic disadvantages and significant educational barriers. AWWA, the largest organization of water supply professionals, emphasizes the importance of investing in the future of the water industry through such scholarships.

The Applied Materials Momentum Fund offers emergency financial assistance to students facing unexpected financial obstacles while pursuing degrees in engineering. This initiative supports basic needs such as food, housing, and transportation, ensuring that students can continue their education without interruption. It aims to empower women engineers and underrepresented groups in the semiconductor industry, fostering a diverse and resilient workforce for the future.

The BSF Research Grants program supports collaborative research between U.S. and Israeli scientists, focusing on basic science projects. Annually, approximately 400 applications are submitted, with around 100 grants awarded. To foster collaboration, joint publications are essential for evaluation. Applications are accepted once per year in mid-November, with results announced the following July. Since its inception in 1972, the BSF has funded over 5,400 high-quality research initiatives, distributing more than $700 million.

The Bonnell Cove Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in North America focused on safety at sea and marine environmental initiatives. With a funding limit of $10,000, it prioritizes well-defined projects that can be evaluated for impact. Proposals are accepted biannually, with deadlines on February 1 and September 1 for March and October reviews, respectively. The Foundation seeks innovative solutions for personal safety equipment and environmental stewardship, emphasizing projects that promote sustainable practices in marine operations.

The Horton PhD Research Grant supports up to three Ph.D. students annually in hydrology and related fields, funded by the Robert E. Horton Fund. It provides a maximum of $10,000 for research and travel, along with $500 for U.S. and Canadian applicants participating in AGU's annual meeting. Eligible students must be active AGU members, enrolled for the award's duration, and meet all application requirements. This grant promotes excellence in hydrological sciences.

The Dr. Eric W. Bond “Kickstart” Scholarship, initiated by the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge, honors Dr. Bond's dedication to education. It supports three graduating seniors from each Augusta County public high school, focusing on those entering the workforce directly. The scholarship emphasizes financial need, community service, and extracurricular involvement, reflecting Dr. Bond's values. The inaugural scholarships will be awarded in 2026, ensuring a lasting legacy that enriches students' lives and promotes their successful transition into adulthood.

The Applied Materials Momentum Fund - Bridge Grants aim to support students facing financial obstacles in completing their computing degrees. This initiative fosters diversity in the semiconductor industry by encouraging women engineers and providing them with career-building opportunities. Eligible candidates include U.S. citizens, DACA recipients, and F1 visa holders pursuing engineering majors. The fund not only alleviates financial stress but also opens doors to internships and full-time positions at Applied Materials, thus enhancing educational progress and career advancement.

The Applied Materials Momentum Fund is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for students in the semiconductor industry, particularly supporting women engineers. This initiative provides essential financial assistance through various grant types, including emergency mini-grants and larger Last Mile grants, aimed at helping students overcome financial barriers in their pursuit of degrees. By fostering diverse and resilient teams, the fund contributes to innovation and growth in technology and engineering fields.

The Ralph J. Torraco Food Bank/Shelter Fund Grant, offered by the UNICO Foundation Inc., aims to combat hunger and provide shelter for the homeless and indigent. Eligible applicants include registered non-profit food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters in 13 U.S. states. The grant focuses on direct services, ensuring that all funds are used for food and shelter, not for operating expenses, thereby promoting effective community support for vulnerable populations.

Wilson Ornithological Society

The earliest stages of the Wilson Ornithological Society’s development began with the formation of the “Young Ornithologists’ Association,” initiated in 1886 under the leadership of L. O. Pindar and J. B. Richards. They began as a corresponding group of naturalists interested in birds, with notes published in The Oölogist.

Soon after, the Society acquired a constitution and established itself in December 1888 as the Wilson Ornithological Chapter of the Agassiz Association. The fledgling group was named in honor of Alexander Wilson, considered the Father of American Ornithology. Its original purpose was “the study of birds, their nests, and eggs.”

Over the subsequent decades, the group—eventually becoming known as the Wilson Ornithological Club—published its proceedings and articles under a series of diverse titles, culminating in The Wilson Bulletin after 1894 and, most recently, The Wilson Journal of Ornithology. The Club adopted its Constitution and Bylaws in 1930 and became the Wilson Ornithological Society in 1955.

Early Professional Avian Conservation and Community Impact Award

The Early Professional Avian Conservation and Community Impact Award recognizes outstanding contributions by Wilson Ornithological Society (WOS) members working in applied, non-research careers that advance the conservation of birds and their habitats. This award also celebrates professionals whose work fosters a stronger and more inclusive conservation community, through management, education, communication, advocacy, or community engagement.

Purpose

This award highlights the diverse pathways through which people contribute to lasting ornithology and avian conservation beyond academic research. It honors those whose efforts build bridges between science, management, and the public; inspire action for birds; provide mentorship or leadership to build capacity; and promote equity, inclusion, and accessibility within the bird conservation community.

Examples of Qualifying Contributions

• Developing and implementing habitat management or conservation plans.
• Creating tools, educational materials, or outreach programs that promote bird conservation.
• Leading advocacy, communications, or storytelling that inspires conservation action.
• Building partnerships or community engagement initiatives that strengthen conservation impact.
• Advancing conservation policy or planning at local, regional, or national scales.

Award and Presentation

The recipient will be recognized at the 2026 Wilson Ornithological Society Annual Meeting, where they will be invited to share their work with attendees. The award includes:

• A monetary honorarium
• An original piece of artwork from an early-career artist
• Coverage of meeting registration, travel, lodging, and per diem expenses

The Kalamazoo Valley Chapter's George L. Disborough TU Research Grant Fund, established in 1990, aims to support graduate-level research on trout habitat and conservation projects aligned with Trout Unlimited's mission. This fund seeks innovative studies on coldwater salmonids and their environments, with a preference for projects conducted in Michigan. It is open to U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled in accredited institutions, promoting efforts that enhance the quality of aquatic resources.

The Catalyze Challenge Grant, managed by Catalyze, is an opportunity for organizations to receive funding for innovative solutions that enhance career-connected learning for youth aged 11-22. With over $4 million available in Round 5, finalists can secure up to $300,000 to implement their ideas. The grant seeks proposals that empower underserved learners through hands-on experiences and meaningful employer partnerships, ultimately impacting over 65,000 young people across the U.S.

The Eugene Salvati, MD, Limited Project Grant, offered by the Research Foundation of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, supports clinical research in colorectal surgery. This grant aims to honor Dr. Salvati's legacy by funding innovative projects that improve patient care. With a maximum funding of $25,000 for one year, it emphasizes investigator-initiated research conducted within the U.S. or Canada, encouraging collaboration among ASCRS members and adherence to ethical review board protocols.

The American Heart Association is seeking proposals to study the prevalence and treatment of cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic diseases among cancer patients and survivors. Given the over 16.7 million cancer survivors in the U.S., this research aims to highlight critical health disparities, identify treatment modalities, and explore shared risk factors. Applications focusing on underrepresented populations and utilizing real-world data sources are especially encouraged, aiming to improve health outcomes in this vulnerable group.

This funding opportunity encourages applications for clinical observational studies focused on musculoskeletal, rheumatic, and skin diseases. It aims to gather essential data for designing future clinical studies, enhancing understanding of disease symptoms, progression, and patient outcomes. Observational studies supported by this initiative will contribute to the development of objective biomarkers and effective outcome measures. Applicants are invited to address key challenges in clinical project design, ensuring a robust foundation for subsequent clinical trials.

The Exploratory Clinical Trial Grants in Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (R61 Clinical Trial Required) aim to support clinical trials that can be completed within a limited timeframe. This funding opportunity encourages a variety of exploratory studies that align with the NIAMS mission, focusing on interventions such as drugs, biologics, devices, and various therapies. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.

The National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative aims to enhance access to trauma-focused treatment and services for children and families affected by traumatic events. Funded by the US HHS through SAMHSA, this initiative seeks to support domestic public and private nonprofit entities in delivering effective interventions. The program emphasizes the importance of addressing the unique needs of children and adolescents, ensuring they receive the support necessary to recover and thrive.

The Dale Jr. Foundation is dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through targeted support in five key areas: Empowerment, Education, Wellness, Hunger, and Hope. By providing safe homes, educational resources, and healthy food, the foundation helps children overcome adversity and achieve their dreams. Their commitment extends to various charities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. The foundation emphasizes community support and holistic care, making a significant impact in the lives of many young people.

The See, Test & Treat Grant offers funding for a pathologist-led cancer screening program aimed at underserved communities. With a focus on health education, the program provides vital cervical and breast cancer screenings, ensuring same-day results and follow-up care. Eligible institutions can apply for funding up to $20,000 for single-year projects or up to $50,000 over three years. This initiative addresses health disparities, empowers communities, and enhances the visibility of pathology in healthcare.

The DFO Research, Education, and Conservation Grant supports projects focused on birds and their habitats, prioritizing initiatives in the Denver area and Colorado's Front Range. Established in 1994, the fund encourages research, education, and conservation efforts with grants typically under $2,000. Recent funded projects include studies on owl habitats and educational programs for young birders. The fund aims to advance knowledge and appreciation of avian species through targeted financial support.