Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Oregon

The Pilot Projects to Enhance the Human Virome Program (R03) aims to support small-scale research projects that enhance the understanding of the human virome. This initiative encourages innovative approaches to study virome interactions and improve tools developed under the Human Virome Program. By leveraging human and animal specimens, projects should foster collaboration and expand existing research efforts, ultimately contributing to a deeper understanding of the virome's role in health and disease.

Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. 

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Northern Nevada’s Scholarship Program is intended to help students cover the ever-increasing cost of tuition. Some of our scholarships are based on financial need, but others represent an award for achievement. These scholarships typically go to students who have excelled in an academic area or have shown they can balance academics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. There are also scholarships designated for students who have overcome adversity, students pursuing degrees in high-need areas, and adult learners outside the traditional college age group. Community Foundation scholarships can help cover tuition, books, and on-campus housing.

Reno Pops Orchestra Scholarship Endowment

The Reno Pops Orchestra Scholarship Endowment is created to send an unending stream of income to keep the music flowing in Reno for generations.

Stark Community FoundationStark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds. The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.The Canton Professional Educators' Scholarships FundThe Canton Professional Educators’ Scholarships Fund was established to assist high school graduates enrolled in an academic plan (college/university, 2-year vocational, technical or advanced study). Applicants must be the natural or adopted child of a CPEA member, must have achieved a cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or above, and college students must be “a student in good standing.”Renewable scholarship: No

The BRAIN Initiative aims to create web-accessible data archives to enhance research on brain science by offering tools for data analysis and visualization. This effort, led by the National Institute of Mental Health in collaboration with other NIH Institutes, seeks to establish a framework for rigorous data sharing and collaboration across various sub-domains. The initiative will enable the scientific community to access standardized and comprehensive data archives to support innovative neurotechnology research.

South Dakota Community Foundation

As a statewide community foundation, we work with donors, nonprofits and community leaders to strengthen philanthropy in South Dakota every day.

Scholarships

At South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF), we proudly manage more than 350 scholarship funds in partnership with generous donors who are committed to supporting students. These scholarships offer countless opportunities to help ease the financial burden of continuing their education.

Major General Duane L. 'Duke' Corning Scholarship

To provide financial support to scholarships established by the National Guard Association of South Dakota and the South Dakota National Guard Enlisted Association.

The funding for this scholarship endowment is made possible by donations from the South Dakota National Guard Officer and Enlisted Associations, honoring the memory of Major General Duane L. “Duke” Corning. It reflects his love and dedication to these associations, as well as his loyalty, dedication, and service to his state, nation, and fellow individuals.

The Salad Bars to Schools Grant, initiated by the Chef Ann Foundation, aims to provide salad bar equipment to U.S. schools, enhancing children's access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Launched in 2010, this initiative tackles childhood obesity by ensuring nutritious options in school meals. Eligible applicants receive technical support and free enrollments in educational courses to maximize the impact of their salad bars. By promoting healthy eating habits, the program strives to improve children's overall health and well-being.

The BRAIN Initiative invites applications for clinical studies aimed at advancing devices for recording and modulation in the human central nervous system. This funding opportunity focuses on small clinical trials that provide vital data for device development, particularly for treatments of central nervous system disorders. Investigators are encouraged to explore both non-significant and significant risk studies to enhance understanding of device functionality and design, ultimately contributing to improved clinical outcomes.

The BRAIN Initiative seeks innovative proposals for preclinical proof of concept studies on novel recording and modulation technologies aimed at diagnosing and treating central nervous system (CNS) disorders. This initiative supports diverse, multidisciplinary teams to enhance our understanding of the human CNS and prepare technologies for first-in-human studies. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time, with optional Letters of Intent encouraged 60 days prior to the proposal deadline.

The Wilhelm Family Foundation Grants aim to enhance access to artistic resources by funding diverse nonprofit arts organizations. Prioritizing projects that engage with environmental and climate issues, the foundation seeks to support creative expression and collaboration in underserved communities. Emphasizing equality and sustainability, it fosters artistic practices that empower individuals and promote cultural dialogue. Grants are typically awarded to small organizations, focusing on community engagement and longevity in the arts sector.

South Dakota Community Foundation

As a statewide community foundation, we work with donors, nonprofits and community leaders to strengthen philanthropy in South Dakota every day.

Scholarships

At South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF), we proudly manage more than 350 scholarship funds in partnership with generous donors who are committed to supporting students. These scholarships offer countless opportunities to help ease the financial burden of continuing their education.

Quint Family Scholarship

To provide financial support to high school graduates pursuing a degree in the medical field.

The Quint Family Scholarship was created to commemorate and honor the legacy of the four daughters of Anton & Bertha Quint. Each of these sisters graduated with a 3-year Registered Nurse (RN) diploma from the Dominican School of Nursing in Great Bend, Kansas—Dolores in 1952, Julia in 1956, Alverna in 1961, and Carol in 1963. Collectively, they accumulated 150 years of experience in the healthcare industry.

This need-based scholarship is designed to support high school graduates from the Black Hills region who are pursuing further education in healthcare. The scholarship's founder, Alverna Quint Kopsky, has lived in the Black Hills since 1971, spending much of her career with the Department of Veterans Affairs and providing care to veterans.

This is a two-year scholarship.

The Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education (THCGME) Program aims to equip residents with the skills to deliver exceptional healthcare, especially in rural and underserved areas. By funding the training of residents in HRSA-supported primary care residency programs, it fosters a diverse healthcare workforce capable of meeting the needs of various populations. This initiative not only enhances the quality of care but also strengthens community health systems.

South Dakota Community Foundation

As a statewide community foundation, we work with donors, nonprofits and community leaders to strengthen philanthropy in South Dakota every day.

Scholarships

At South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF), we proudly manage more than 350 scholarship funds in partnership with generous donors who are committed to supporting students. These scholarships offer countless opportunities to help ease the financial burden of continuing their education.

South Dakota American Legion Scholarship

To provide financial support to South Dakota high school graduates that are children or grandchildren of United States veterans.

This scholarship is funded through voluntary contributions from legion posts, private individuals, and businesses. It is designated to provide educational opportunities beyond high school to eligible veterans, their children, and their grandchildren.

Hemophilia Alliance Joe Pugliese Educational Award

The Hemophilia Alliance, The Alliance Pharmacy, and the Hemophilia Alliance Foundation are pleased to support the 2026-2027 Joe Pugliese Educational Award. This award is a scholarship provided annually to individuals diagnosed with an inherited bleeding or inherited thrombotic disorder who are active patients in a federally funded Hemophilia Treatment Center, in support of post-secondary educational pursuits.

The 2026-2027 education award will provide each of four recipients with $12,500 for tuition and/or any qualified educational expense to be used within one academic year of award receipt. 

It is a shared goal of the Hemophilia Alliance and the Hemophilia Alliance Foundation that this scholarship program continues for many years to help support individuals with inherited bleeding or inherited thrombotic disorders throughout their education.

Qualified Expenses:

• Tuition
• Housing or food expenses
• Tools or instruments required for educational program
• Books, computers or other supplies

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.

Janie Chavis Lucas Scholarship

Graduating high school seniors.

Pathway to Careers, a Sedona/Verde Valley CTE Scholarship Summer Courses

This fund is designed to meet the employment needs of the Sedona/Verde Valley area communities through the establishment of a new career pathway. The Fund supports any Sedona/Verde Valley high school graduate currently residing in Sedona/Verde Valley who is already attending, or plans to attend, an accredited community college or technical/vocational school in pursuit of an Associate's degree, license, or certificate.

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. We broadly support the Washington County community by awarding grants in eight focus areas as follows: Animal Welfare, Arts & Humanities, Community Improvement & Economic Development, Conservation & Environment, Education, Health & Fitness, Human Needs, and Religion & Faith.

Loughman Scholarship Fund

For a current year graduating senior who resides within the boundaries of the Fort Cherry School District, who plans to enroll in an associate or bachelor’s degree program, and who demonstrates financial need. 

Northern New York Community Foundation

Since 1929, the Northern New York Community Foundation has invested in improving and enriching the quality of life for all in communities across Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties.

Through partnerships with businesses and organizations, charitable foundations, and generous families and individual donors, the Community Foundation awards grants and scholarships from an endowment and collection of funds that benefit the region. Its commitment to donors helps individuals achieve their charitable objectives now and for generations to come by preserving and honoring legacies of community philanthropy while inspiring others.

Next Step Education Program

The Community Foundation’s Next Step Education Program is an ideal opportunity for students and working professionals who are pursuing career advancement and educational growth. The program aims to help individuals as they pursue postsecondary education and career training. It is designed to assist students of all ages, including recent high school graduates, adult learners, and nontraditional students, as they work to earn undergraduate degrees, professional certifications, or technical credentials that will advance their professional goals.

Whether enrolling in an accredited college, university, technical, or trade school or gaining industry-recognized certifications, the Next Step Education Program aims to help individuals achieve lasting success.

This opportunity is made possible by the generosity of donors who believe in the power of lifelong education. Their support ensures that more people in our community have access to the training and education they need to reach their goals.

Award amounts may be used for tuition, books, and course-related expense.

What educational avenues can I pursue?

The Next Step Education Program supports a wide range of educational and professional development pathways, including:

• Micro-credentials and professional certifications to strengthen skills or secure employment
• Courses or programs that lead to a degree
• Technical and trade school training for hands-on, high-demand careers
• Enhanced skills programs for career advancement or to help obtain new employment, such as Microsoft Office programs and more
• Programs at local BOCES campuses
• Professional licensing programs, including CDL and other industry-specific certifications

Thurman G. Adams and Hilda McCabe Adams Family Scholarship

Award:

• One-time award of $1,000.

Thomas A. & Mary Jo Russo Scholarship

Award:

• 4-year award of $5,000 per year. Students may be eligible to renew their scholarship for up to three additional years, provided they continue in the same degree program. 

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. We broadly support the Washington County community by awarding grants in eight focus areas as follows: Animal Welfare, Arts & Humanities, Community Improvement & Economic Development, Conservation & Environment, Education, Health & Fitness, Human Needs, and Religion & Faith.

Washington County Visiting Nurses Scholarship Fund

The Foundation provides a limited number of need-based and merit-based scholarships to qualifying students attending a graduate school or other educational institution.

Cherokee Nation Foundation

The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a nonprofit organization serving the Cherokee Nation, a federally recognized tribe of more than 470,000 citizens. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities to Cherokee students so they can reach their full potential. The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Scholarships

Cherokee Nation Foundation offers a diverse range of scholarships to help reverse the trend of rising student debt. Students may receive up to two CNF scholarships per academic year. All opportunities are reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens, unless otherwise noted in the description.

Anna Belle Mitchell Memorial Scholarship

Applicant must be an undergraduate, graduate student or community member currently pursuing pottery. Three pictures of artwork must be included with application for consideration. This is a one-year scholarship reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens.

Cherokee Nation Foundation

The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a nonprofit organization serving the Cherokee Nation, a federally recognized tribe of more than 470,000 citizens. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities to Cherokee students so they can reach their full potential. The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Scholarships

Cherokee Nation Foundation offers a diverse range of scholarships to help reverse the trend of rising student debt. Students may receive up to two CNF scholarships per academic year. All opportunities are reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens, unless otherwise noted in the description.

Barbara Jean Dyer Scholarship

Applicant must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours, major in art and maintain a 2.0 GPA.

Hardin Medical and Dental Staff Memorial Scholarship

A graduating high school senior residing in Breckinridge, Grayson, Green, Hardin, Hart, LaRue, Meade, Nelson or Taylor Counties.

Armstrong County Community Foundation (The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania)

In 1997 Merchants National Bank, an Armstrong County community bank, marked its 100th anniversary. The centennial celebration included a unique expression of gratitude to the community in the form of $100,000 to be used as a seed fund to initiate a community foundation for Armstrong County. The bank challenged the community to keep the principal balance of the endowed funds intact and spend only a portion of the interest earnings to ensure a lasting legacy.

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Judy L. (Beveridge) Creel Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is established to honor the memory of Gary and Judy (Beveridge) Creel of East Franklin Township, Armstrong County.

Gary, the son of Clarence and Hally (Sharpe) Creel, was employed in the surface coal stripping industry and then owned and operated a retail tire sales business until his retirement. At the time of his passing, Gary was in the process of getting a patent approved for a canine orthopedic support device.

Judy, the daughter of Floyd "Ernie" and Dorothy (Reesman) Beveridge, was employed in the banking industry. In retirement, Judy designed tombstones/grave markers for both humans and pets. Judy also was a published author having written three books.

Gary and Judy met in high school and shared 55 years of marriage. Life was busy with work, family, and church responsibilities, but both found time to be there for others in their moment of need. Whether it was offering their time, professional skills or personal resources, their compassion was shared authentically and altruistically.

It is the desire of children, Marci and Ryan, to establish this scholarship to continue their parents' legacy of ordinary people doing what they could to help others, simply because it was the right thing to do. Matthew 6:3-4; James 2:15-17

Ken Cicerale Memorial Music Scholarship

Award:

• One time award of $1,000. 

Keisha M. Michael Memorial Scholarship

Essay: Topic:

• “How a college education will help me make an impact on the community and affect my life.”

Award:

• One time award of $1,500. Awardees can re-apply.

Armstrong County Community Foundation (The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania)

In 1997 Merchants National Bank, an Armstrong County community bank, marked its 100th anniversary. The centennial celebration included a unique expression of gratitude to the community in the form of $100,000 to be used as a seed fund to initiate a community foundation for Armstrong County. The bank challenged the community to keep the principal balance of the endowed funds intact and spend only a portion of the interest earnings to ensure a lasting legacy.

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Klingensmith Scholarship

In October of 1983, the Trustees and various Klingensmith Trusts created a scholarship to further the higher education of working high school students residing in Ford City who chose to study in the field of pharmacy. Trustees funded the scholarship with $40,000, designated it as "The Klingensmith Fund," and authorized representatives of the Armstrong School District to invest and reinvest said principal sum and use the income to benefit any eligible student selected by the School District Representatives.

The Trustees further directed that in February of 2007, the School District was to use the Klingensmith Fund's principal and income in its sole discretion to further the interests of the "high school in Ford City" and giving adequate consideration to pharmacological education.

The Klingensmith Trusts that established the Klingensmith Fund no longer existed; and there no longer being a high school in Ford City, the CEO of Klingensmith Drug Stores, David J. Cippel, requested that the School District transfer the balance of the Klingensmith Fund to The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania (the Armstrong County Community Foundation), a public nonprofit corporation, for the purpose of establishing student scholarships.

The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania (the Armstrong County Community Foundation) willingly accepted. The Armstrong School District transferred the remaining principal and income of the Klingensmith Fund to The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania (the Armstrong County Community Foundation) for the purpose of establishing college scholarships.