Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Oregon

United Negro College Fund

“A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”®

For more than seven decades, this principle has remained at the heart of UNCF, enabling us to raise more than $5 billion and help more than 500,000 students and counting not just attend college, but thrive, graduate and become leaders.

We do this in three ways: By awarding more than 12,000 students scholarships, worth more than $65 million, each year. By providing financial support to 37 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). And by serving as the nation’s leading advocate for the importance of minority education and community engagement.

Richard F. Freeman Scholarship Fund

The Richard F. Freeman Scholarship Fund is designed to provide financial assistance for deserving students from Southeast Michigan who are afforded the opportunity to earn a college degree. 

The Gloria Belle Memorial Scholarship, established by the IBMA Foundation, honors pioneering bluegrass musician Gloria Bernadette Flickinger. This $1,000 annual scholarship supports students engaged in the bluegrass music community, either as performers or in supportive roles. With over $25,000 raised since June 2024, the scholarship aims to expand funding to $2,000 annually by 2025, promoting education and participation in bluegrass music.

The Independent Medical Education Program Grants provided by the Boston Scientific Foundation Inc aim to support educational, scientific, and policymaking programs that enhance medical knowledge. These grants are available to US-based healthcare institutions and organizations, promoting a wide range of educational initiatives. While they do not cover certain costs like faculty honoraria or travel for attendees, they encourage applications for various educational events. Please apply well in advance, as funding decisions are made monthly.

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

Doug Struthers Memorial Scholarship

Doug Struthers taught at Alexander Graham Bell Elementary in the Lake Washington School District for more than two decades. His hard work, commitment and perseverance made a difference in the school and the community. This scholarship fund was created in his memory to help young people learn skills to serve their communities. Four Lake Washington School District students every year are chosen to receive this $5,000 renewable scholarship.

The Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation's President's Grants support educational projects that enhance health professional training. The foundation prioritizes diversity, collaboration, and ethical navigation in clinical learning environments. Grants are awarded on a rolling basis, primarily aligning with these priorities, and are capped at $25,000, including a maximum of 10% for indirect costs. Applications are accepted year-round from tax-exempt institutions focusing on medical and nursing education.

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

Anne D. Maloof Scholarship

This is a one-time scholarship for $3,000 to honor and financially assist graduate, professional or undergraduate students in Island, Kitsap, Jefferson, and Thurston counties.

The Marine Trades Scholarship, offered by the National Marine Representatives Association (NMRA), supports students pursuing education in marine trades. Since 2008, NMRA has facilitated annual scholarships funded by members and affiliates. This initiative not only encourages academic growth but also fosters professional development through networking events, industry insights, and advocacy support. Applications are accepted each spring, with recipients chosen in the summer, promoting a brighter future for the marine industry.

The Private Higher Education Grant, offered by the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations, supports colleges and universities dedicated to undergraduate education and the liberal arts. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $300,000, encouraging projects that enhance student outcomes and faculty leadership. Proposals promoting advocacy for liberal arts, civil discourse, and purpose-oriented education are especially welcomed, fostering an environment of respectful dialogue and a strong sense of purpose among students.

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois will make a sustainable philanthropic impact in our community through visible leadership in connecting people who care with causes that matter.

Gerald C. Bulkeley Scholarship Fund 

The Gerald C. Bulkeley Scholarship Fund was established by his family to honor his legacy of service to the Abingdon community. A graduate of Abingdon High School, Mr. Bulkeley was dedicated to supporting young people through civic and educational leadership.

This scholarship is available for students attending school in District 276 and residing within the boundaries of former District 217. The student will receive the scholarship award each year for four years.

The Interfaith Leadership & Religious Literacy Grant aims to enhance religious literacy by fostering multi-faith dialogues and collaborations. It targets 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. that educate leaders across various sectors, promoting mutual respect for diverse beliefs. Funding ranges from $100,000 to $300,000, supporting initiatives like digital media projects and campus collaborations that bridge differences. The grant encourages innovative proposals while excluding scholarships and individual grants.

The Charles A., Dhel L., and Katharine Funkhouser Memorial Scholarship provides $1,500 in renewable financial assistance to high school seniors graduating from Dayton Public Schools. Established by Jeanne Funkhouser-Reeder and her husband, Vern W. Reeder, this scholarship aims to support deserving students demonstrating financial need and academic potential. Administered by The Dayton Foundation, it encourages graduates to pursue further education at accredited colleges or universities.

The CAA Professional Development Fellowship in Visual Arts offers a $10,000 grant to support MFA students and artists from underrepresented groups. This fellowship aids in job-search expenses or purchasing materials for their studio practice. Recipients also receive a one-year CAA membership and free registration to the Annual Conference. Honorable Mentions will also receive membership and conference registration. This initiative promotes diversity and provides crucial support to emerging artists in their professional journey.

Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida connects people who care with causes that matter. Since 1964, we have served the citizens of Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Clay, and Putnam counties through a range of charitable and civic activities, while helping individual donors achieve their philanthropic goals. We believe in Giving Back. Forever Forward.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous donors, The Community Foundation offers several scholarships each year that benefit students in Northeast Florida who are seeking post-secondary degrees.

Talen Charles Birt Memorial Scholarship

The Talen Charles Birt Memorial Scholarship will provide financial assistance for students graduating from Andrew Jackson, First Coast, Jean Ribault, or William M. Raines High Schools in Duval County. In selecting the successful candidate, the review committee will consider the students’ demonstrated commitment to academics and leadership, plans to pursue a 2- or 4-year degree and can articulate why they have selected their area of study, and financial need. The one-time scholarship will support tuition and books, up to $2,000.

Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida connects people who care with causes that matter. Since 1964, we have served the citizens of Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Clay, and Putnam counties through a range of charitable and civic activities, while helping individual donors achieve their philanthropic goals. We believe in Giving Back. Forever Forward.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous donors, The Community Foundation offers several scholarships each year that benefit students in Northeast Florida who are seeking post-secondary degrees.

Sam and Lydia Payne Scholarship

The Sam and Lydia Payne Scholarship will provide financial assistance for three students graduating from a North Florida public or private school who demonstrate an aptitude and desire to succeed. The scholarship will support tuition and books, up to $12,000 ($3,000 per year for 4 years) provided the recipient continues to meet the eligibility requirements. In selecting the successful candidate, the review committee will consider a desire for personal growth and financial need.

Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida connects people who care with causes that matter. Since 1964, we have served the citizens of Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Clay, and Putnam counties through a range of charitable and civic activities, while helping individual donors achieve their philanthropic goals. We believe in Giving Back. Forever Forward.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous donors, The Community Foundation offers several scholarships each year that benefit students in Northeast Florida who are seeking post-secondary degrees.

Byon M. Morris Scholarship

The Byon M. Morris Scholarship will provide $4,800 ($1,200 per year for 4 years) to support tuition, books, fees, room & board, and degree-related expenses for one graduating senior who has attained Scouting’s highest ranks. One Eagle Scout (Boy Scouts) or one Gold Award winner (Girl Scouts), who demonstrates an aptitude and desire to succeed, will receive the scholarship. In selecting the successful candidate, the review committee will consider academic achievements, leadership experience, desire for personal growth and financial need.

The NCRG Large Grant, provided by the International Center for Responsible Gaming, supports high-quality research on gambling disorders and responsible gambling. Eligible applicants can request up to $75,000 annually for a maximum of 24 months, totaling $187,500. The grant emphasizes scientific rigor through its advisory board, ensuring only the best proposals receive funding. This initiative aims to advance understanding and treatment of gambling-related issues through peer-reviewed research.

The Hearst Journalism Awards Program, established in 1960, offers scholarships for exceptional performance in journalism at the collegiate level, with a total of up to $700,000 in awards. This program includes various competitions across writing, photojournalism, audio, television, and multimedia formats. Open to undergraduate journalism majors and minors from accredited institutions, it encourages students to showcase their work and gain recognition in the field of journalism.

The Rachael Ray Save Them All Grants support innovative projects aimed at enhancing the lifesaving efforts for cats and dogs in U.S. shelters. Eligible organizations, including public and private shelters and rescue groups, can apply for up to $50,000 to fund initiatives like intake prevention services, medical care for at-risk pets, and shelter enrichment programs. All projects must align with the mission of increasing adoption rates and improving animal welfare within the Best Friends Network.

The Hearst Journalism Awards Program, established in 1960, supports college journalism education by awarding scholarships and grants for excellence in journalism. The 2024-2025 program offers $700,000 across various competitions in writing, photojournalism, audio, television, and multimedia, allowing each university to submit two entries per competition. Open to undergraduate journalism majors and minors, this program aims to encourage student participation and recognizes outstanding journalistic work in diverse formats.

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

Philip A. Spade and Ruth M. Spade Scholarship

Provides scholarships which benefit students educated in the Gwinn Public School System from elementary school through graduation, with particular emphasis on attendance at George D. Gilbert Elementary School. 

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

The Mark Ulrickson Memorial Scholarship Fund

Provides scholarships to graduating seniors in Marquette County who are enrolled at a college or university, and who demonstrate financial need. 

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

William B. Larson Memorial Scholarship

Provides scholarships for graduating seniors of Ishpeming, Negaunee, and Westwood High Schools. The Fund aims to award three scholarships of equal amount annually to eligible applicants based on the following criteria: Students must be graduating seniors pursuing higher education in the field of business administration, they must demonstrate financial need, and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

The Community Foundation of Marquette County distributes over $130,000 annually in scholarships to benefit aspiring students in Marquette County.

Coach Dion Brown Memorial Scholarship

Be a graduating senior of Gwinn Area Community Schools pursuing higher education, and who demonstrates school and/or community leadership through involvement in extracurricular activities (not limited to athletic).

Distribution Process

• CFMC scholarship recipients will be contacted in June requesting student enrollment verification
• Scholarships can only be distributed once student’s information is received
• Scholarships will be distributed to the college/school/university indicated by student
• The scholarship must be used for tuition and fees required for the enrollment or attendance of the student at a qualifying educational institution; fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction at such an educational institution; and room and board, within the first semester of first year of students enrollment
• That year’s recipient must claim the scholarship within that fiscal year to be distributed (by 12/31/xx)

The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) anticipates soliciting applications for a National Research Center for Promoting Work and Strong Families.The Center aims to improve the effectiveness of federal and state policies that promote the dignity of work, economic self-sufficiency, and build stable, married families while reducing their reliance on public assistance. The Center will support rigorous, policy-relevant research and build stronger connections between researchers and policymakers in human services programs.The Center will carry out three core activities:

Fellowship Program: Support in-residence fellows placed within ACF and other HHS offices to provide policy-relevant research expertise on work, earnings, family stability, and human services programs.

Extramural Research Grants: Administer a competitive grant program to fund timely, actionable research aligned with ACF priorities, including promoting the dignity of work, economic self-sufficiency and reduced dependence on public assistance, family formation and stability through marriage, child well-being, and program effectiveness.

Dissemination and Communication: Host in-person and virtual events and produce policy-focused materials to ensure research findings are accessible and actionable for federal, state, tribal, and local policymakers. ACF anticipates making one cooperative agreement award for a five-year project period. The recipient must be able to show, and ACF must be able to monitor, that funds appropriated were spent on activities that can be directly attributed to those required and allowed by each funding source.

The Hearst Journalism Awards Program, established in 1960, offers substantial support for journalism education through competitive scholarships totaling up to $700,000. This prestigious program includes various competitions covering writing, photojournalism, audio, television, and multimedia, allowing students from ACEJMC-accredited institutions to showcase their talents. Additionally, the Hearst Foundation promotes educational and charitable initiatives across the country, contributing over a billion dollars to various fields. This program encourages the next generation of journalists to excel in their craft.

The Abbey Mural Prize, established in 1932, supports the creation and restoration of public murals across the United States. This prestigious award, administered by the National Academy of Design since 1940, emphasizes projects that enhance community engagement and social activism through art. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $40,000, with a total annual funding cap of $125,000. Eligible applicants include artists, architects, and nonprofit organizations committed to impactful mural projects.

The Association of American Educators Foundation offers the National Teacher Scholarship to promote professional excellence among educators. This scholarship provides funding for various professional development opportunities, including conferences and learning materials, with awards up to $500. Available to full-time educators who haven't received AAE funding in the last two years, the scholarship aims to enhance the quality of education across the nation while supporting educators' growth and collaboration.