Best Grants for 501(c)(3) in Pennsylvania

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Stephen A. Johnston Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a college sophomore, junior, or senior or a graduate student who is majoring in plant pathology or has demonstrated an interest in vegetable crop production or a related field. Preference will be given to a student who can demonstrate evidence of an association with the Rutgers University Agricultural Research and Extension Center.

The Chronic Disease Education and Awareness NOFO aims to enhance national education and awareness for chronic diseases not covered by specific CDC funding. It will implement activities to improve surveillance, address evidence gaps, and develop educational resources. This initiative seeks to strengthen partnerships and promote evidence-based practices in prevention, screening, and self-management, ultimately improving health outcomes for individuals affected by chronic diseases through better access to information and resources.

Florence and Jack Sims Memorial Scholarship

The Florence and Jack Sims Memorial Scholarship Fund was established at the North Georgia Community Foundation in 2014. The Sims were active participants and supporters of their communities and the Baptist Church in White, Hall, and Oglethorpe Counties. Their Christian beliefs led them to follow Christ’s teaching in Matthew 22: v37-40 – to first love God and second to love thy neighbor as thyself. The Fund was established by their three children- Jackie, Michael, and Hal- to honor their faith and memory.

Recipients must attend a high school located in Hall County or White County, GA, or be homeschooled students residing in Hall County or White County, GA, and plan to attend an accredited U.S. college or university. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and should demonstrate active involvement in extracurricular and/or community activities such as volunteering, work, and church activities. In 2026, one scholarship award of $2,000 will be offered.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Vincent P. Arabia Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior or undergraduate student who is blind/visually impaired or has a permanent physical disability that impedes their mobility. The opportunity is open statewide, with preference given to South Jersey students (particular emphasis on Burlington County). Students will be evaluated on academic performance and unmet financial need.

Scranton Area Community Foundation

For over 70 years, the Scranton Area Community Foundation has served Northeastern Pennsylvania as a steward of charitable resources, a grantmaker, and a catalyst for positive change. Guided by our core values of collaboration, trust, integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, we work to ensure that our communities thrive with opportunities for all.

Scholarships

We are honored to be the stewards of over 90 scholarship funds established by philanthropically-minded individuals in our community. Generous donors entrust us to connect them to dynamic students to provide financial resources for their education through scholarships. Our donors establish scholarship funds with criteria they wish to be met by applicants. Our scholarship committee considers the criteria, evaluates the submitted applications, and chooses the best candidates for each scholarship.

Northeastern Pennsylvania Health Care Foundation Nursing Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to individuals seeking financial support to obtain a certification or degree in the nursing field, including a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or a Registered Nurse (RN), Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN), or nurse educator.

Scholarships and Awards

The National Federation of the Blind offers several scholarships and awards that honor blind individuals as well as teachers, professionals, entrepreneurs, and organizations whose work benefits the blind community.

Blind Educator of the Year Award

Recognize a blind educator who strives to guide, uplift, and advocate for their blind students and the needs of blind people.

The Blind Educator of the Year Award was established by the National Organization of Blind Educators, a division of the National Federation of the Blind, in 1991 to recognize outstanding blind teachers.

Every year, the award pays tribute to a blind teacher whose exceptional classroom performance, notable community service, and uncommon commitment to the NFB merit national recognition. A teacher not only provides information but also guidance, advocacy, and love. The recipient of the Blind Educator of the Year Award must exhibit all of these traits and must advance the cause of blind people in the spirit and philosophy of the NFB.

The Award

The Blind Educator of the Year Award is presented at the NFB National Convention.

The Michigan Botanical Foundation Grant supports research and educational initiatives that enhance the understanding and preservation of Michigan's flora. Grants are available for projects involving rare species, environmental awareness, and educational programs. The foundation welcomes applications from individuals and organizations that align with its goals. Grant amounts typically range from $100 to $1,500, with preference given to projects based in Michigan or the Great Lakes region. Funding decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.

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

Father Vincent L. Ouellette Scholarship Endowment Fund

Provides financial assistance for graduating high school students who are members of the St. Joseph’s Parish and will be pursuing a degree at a four year college or university. 

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)

Allied Arts Fund

These awards help talented young students further their training in their artistic field. Students must live within the boundaries of the Greater Renton Area or have a Renton address and are between the ages of 12-19. The categories under which a student may apply are all areas of visual or performing arts. Awards may be used for tuition, school fees or academic expenses such as music, lessons, books, painting supplies, etc.

Awards

• $500 - $1000

In 2025, the Community Foundation of Madison & Jefferson County awarded over $233,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors of the county’s public and private high schools. Nearly 50 different students earned money toward their college costs. Scholarships are available for a variety of applicants. Some are specific to schools, majors, need, or interests.

CFMJC scholarships may be used for tuition and related expenses like fees and required equipment at accredited colleges and universities. Room and board are not covered.

Carolyn Bruce Spicer & Gene E. Spicer Nursing Scholarship (Adult Learner)

Criteria evaluated:

• Academic performance, work history, and financial need

Required materials:

• FAFSA SAI PDF upload

Scholarship amount:

• $1,100 | 1 scholarship

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

Bernadette Reider Scholarship Fund

Provides scholarships to students from Marquette County who are entering into a college educational program in the field of nursing. Applicants will also be judged by 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 Botany and Beyond: PLANTS III program, funded by the National Science Foundation and the Botanical Society of America, aims to support diverse undergraduate scholars attending the 2025 Botany conference. Participants will engage in immersive mentoring, scientific talks, workshops, and networking opportunities while exploring various botanical fields. With full funding for travel and accommodations, this program fosters an inclusive environment for budding botanists, encouraging professional development in a supportive community.

Scott Elliott Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Scott Elliott Memorial Scholarship was established in 2019 by the family and friends of Scott Elliott after he lost his courageous battle against cancer. As a way to honor his legacy, the Scott Elliott Memorial Scholarship incorporates Scott’s life-long passion and commitment to swimming and education. He swam competitively for most of his life, and eventually would go on to become a swimming coach and mentor for 20 years at various clubs and programs around West Chester.

Scott’s impact on the West Chester swimming community is unmatchable. He was able to transform a pool deck into a magical place for so many people—a place where the strongest friendships were formed, the most intimidating obstacles were overcome, and new realizations of one’s potential began to take hold. The lessons Scott taught will not be forgotten, the memories he forged will not diminish.

The level of dedication Scott showed for swimming was only exceeded by his devotion to his wife and two children, Trevor and Piper. Scott was a very involved, loving parent and partner. He led by example through his commitment to bettering the community, his charismatic and approachable personality, his dedication to the sport of swimming, and his ever-relenting ability to persevere given any circumstance. Along with the many memories Scott’s friends and family will share along the way, the Scott Elliott Memorial Scholarship Fund will serve as a constant reminder of their father’s giving nature and very beloved personality.

In Scott’s tenure as a coach and mentor, he encouraged positive development among his swimmers both in and out of the pool. This scholarship embodies Scott’s commitment to helping others become the best version of themselves.

In addition to the Scott Elliott Memorial Scholarship Fund, supporters can remember and honor Scott by participating in the Annual Run to Find a Way #ScottStrong. The most recent run was held on June 4th, 2022. Visit the Run Sign Up Website by clicking here to register for this event.

The Toshiba America Foundation offers grants to K-5 teachers in public and nonprofit private schools, funding innovative projects in math and science education. Designed to support teachers in implementing hands-on learning experiences, these grants encourage creativity and community involvement. Applicants can propose projects that enhance student engagement and foster scientific inquiry. The foundation prioritizes teacher-led initiatives, making it a valuable resource for educators aiming to enrich their classrooms and inspire young learners.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Sharonview CARES Paul Paliyenko Scholarship Fund

We're proud to support the academic goals of our young members and family members of our Sharonview team. Each year, we partner with the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation to honor deserving students with scholarship money to help with the costs of their higher education needs.

Any applicant that does not receive a scholarship award from Sharonview is automatically entered in the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation's scholarship pool.

Paul Paliyenko, who served on Sharonview’s Board of Directors for more than 25 years, felt it was the Credit Union’s first duty to serve its members. He insisted that it was the responsibility of the Credit Union to create not only the best returns for its members, but to establish a trusting relationship with them. Paliyenko’s drive to care for the member is why we honor his memory with the Sharonview Cares Scholarship.

What is a Community Foundation?

We are one of more than 750 similar tax-exempt public charities throughout the United States that work to make their community a better place to live. We are a local organization staffed by residents of the community and led by a board of trustees who have an in-depth knowledge of the issues that shape our County.

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Hub City Ravens Roost Inc. #124 “4th and 29” Scholarship Fund

Named for a legendary Baltimore Ravens miracle play, this scholarship recognizes one student’s effort in any area (personal, academic, music, sports, art, etc.) that has led to a brighter future.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship.

HopeSouth FCU Scholarship Fund

Scholarships range from $500 to $5,000 and are available based on achievements and/or financial need.

When you apply for a HopeSouth Scholarship, you’re also entered into consideration for multiple opportunities. We have partnered with Carolinas Foundation Scholarship Program — giving you even more opportunities to fund your education.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Skyla Credit Union Herman Hoose Scholarship

The Skyla Foundation is dedicated to partnering with and supporting the local community through annual scholarship awards to high school seniors in pursuit of continuing education.

Each May, Skyla awards $5,000 Herman Hoose Scholarships to deserving students who are graduating from high school in the current school year and enrolls in an institution of higher education for the fall of that same year.

Skyla is partnering with the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation on the 2025-2026 Herman Hoose Scholarship cycle. The application window is from now through February 1, 2026.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship.

Greenville Federal Credit Union Scholarship Fund

The Greenville Federal Credit Union Foundation exists to promote local prosperity by providing grants, educational scholarships, and other funding support for individuals and non-profit, community-based programs within Greenville County, SC, with a primary focus on youth and education.

The Greenville Federal Credit Union Foundation offers high school seniors the opportunity to apply for (1) $5,000 needs-based scholarship and (5) $1,000 scholarships to help fund their first year of college or technical school.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Summit Credit Union’s Elizabeth Hamilton Scholarship Fund

At Summit Credit Union, we believe that higher education is important - and that academic achievement should be rewarded. Each year, we give out a number of scholarships to deserving students from the region.

Who We Are

Buiding a stronger, More Vibrant Community

For over 70 years, the Scranton Area Community Foundation has served Northeastern Pennsylvania as a steward of charitable resources, a grantmaker, and a catalyst for positive change. Guided by our core values of collaboration, trust, integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, we work to ensure that our communities thrive with opportunities for all.

This scholarship is awarded to a Lackawanna Junior College student who is selected by the school and demonstrates characteristics of academic achievement, good citizenship and service to others, and leadership.

The Norman R. Tilford Field Studies Scholarship Fund, established in 1998 by the AEG Foundation, honors the contributions of Norman R. Tilford. It provides grants to undergraduate and graduate students undertaking field studies in geology. Awards include $1000 for undergraduates and $1500 for both Master’s and doctoral candidates, based on academic merit and potential contributions to the field. This fund promotes hands-on learning and professional development in geosciences.

What is a Community Foundation?

We are one of more than 750 similar tax-exempt public charities throughout the United States that work to make their community a better place to live. We are a local organization staffed by residents of the community and led by a board of trustees who have an in-depth knowledge of the issues that shape our County.

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Lawrence and Genevieve Martin Scholarship Fund

This scholarship honors Larry and Geney Martin by assisting a young man or woman graduating from a Washington County, MD public high school who plans to pursue a career in the building industry.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

R.D. Hinsch Scholarship

This scholarship will be awarded to a college-bound graduating senior or a current undergraduate student who demonstrates an active and continued interest in sailing. Applicants will be evaluated on academic performance, extracurricular activities, and community service work (paid or unpaid).

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Telco Community Credit Union Scholarship Fund

At Telco Community Credit Union, supporting education is an important part of our mission to help members build brighter financial futures. We are proud to award multiple scholarships each year to high school seniors within our field of membership who are pursuing their dreams through higher education at a community college or university. By investing in students today, we’re helping to strengthen the communities we serve for generations to come.

Applicants who are not selected for a Telco scholarship are automatically entered into the wider Carolinas Credit Union Foundation scholarship pool for additional opportunities.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship.

Vision Financial Federal Scholarship Fund

Vision Financial is committed to giving back and recognizes the importance of education and academic assistance.

Scholarships provide an opportunity for people to earn an education and pursue their dreams. Vision Financial is proud to award three deserving high school students entering college with $1,000 scholarships for Fall 2026.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Carolinas Telco Federal Credit Union Legacy Scholarship Fund

At Carolinas Telco Federal Credit Union (CTFCU), we pride ourselves in giving back to our members and the communities we serve. We've partnered with Carolinas Credit Union Foundation to award TEN individual members with a $1,500 CTFCU Legacy Scholarship.