Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Pennsylvania

Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation

The Foundation was established in September 1977 by Dr. Arnold O. and Mrs. Mabel Beckman to give back to the scientific community.

“The mission of the Foundation is to support leading edge research, in the fields of chemistry and life sciences, broadly interpreted, and particularly to foster the invention of methods, instruments, and materials that open up new avenues of research and application in these sciences and related disciplines. My preference is to favor young investigators, new ideas, and a variety of projects rather than fund large, established ones of long duration.”

Current Foundation Initiatives

Today, the Foundation continues according to the vision laid out by Dr. and Mrs. Beckman:

• Supporting Young Scientists: through our annual grant programs, focused on the most promising young scientists
• Community Support activities: that promote science education and excellence in our local community
• Streamlined operations: so that we don't "spend money to give money away"

"Beckman Family" Awardee Community Support Grants

The Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation’s "Beckman Family" Awardee Community Support Grants are open to all current and former Foundation grant awardees and Executive Committee members, specifically from the Beckman Scholars Program, Arnold O. Beckman Postdoctoral Fellowship, Beckman Young Investigator, and Instrument Grants programs.

As a current or former Beckman awardee or Executive Committee member, if you are actively engaged as a volunteer or Board member in a youth STEM or STEAM organization in your local area, you may apply to this program for funding for a particular project with that organization.

Funding Priorities

Projects should be aligned with the Foundation’s aim of “supporting young scientists today for tomorrow’s breakthrough discoveries” and oriented toward achieving positive outcomes in at least one of the Foundation’s current funding priorities:

• Engaging youth in hands-on science and math activities to encourage curiosity and student-driven exploration and learning.
• Using technology to engage youth in STEM/STEAM.
• Promoting the Beckmans’ legacy of technology innovation and leadership amongst youth.

In addition, the following considerations should be addressed in a proposal for funding:

• Where possible, the Foundation’s contribution to a project or activity should help to build capacity within the nonprofit organization to continue the activity beyond the one-time grant.
• The Awardee/Executive Committee member should discuss how the program will increase access to STEM/STEAM opportunities for the target audience.
• The costs associated with the request should relate to a stand-alone STEM/STEAM project, event, or activity and not part of a broader program, event, or target audience outside the Awardee’s or Executive Committee member's local area.
• Youth registration to participate in the STEM/STEAM project, event, or activity should be open to all in the local area, when possible.

Process & Timeline

Grant funds are directly issued to the organization by the Foundation and include for acknowledgement an indication that the gift was made because their volunteer or Board member is a Beckman Awardee or Executive Committee member.

Requests must be submitted by the Beckman Awardee on behalf of a U.S. nonprofit 501(c)(3), or equivalent, organization exclusively serving youth in their local community. As a matter of policy, the Foundation does not provide grants to non-U.S. organizations or institutions. This program defines the terms “youth” and “youths” as individual(s) 17 years of age or younger.

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.

Susan Townsend Barnes Scholarship

A senior graduating from any in-person, on-site accredited High School in Cumberland County.

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.

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.

Lula T. and James L. Crosby Scholarship Fund

Any high school in Cumberland, Hoke or Harnett counties.

The Jacques-Wegner Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, invests in future leaders by providing $3,000 annually to students attending a 4-year college. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5, be high school graduates from specific Southern Arizona regions, and enroll in an accredited institution. This scholarship supports educational aspirations and allows recipients to re-apply for funding up to four times, ensuring ongoing support for their academic journey.

The Michael Todd Gavitt Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, honors Mike Gavitt's culinary passion and musical talent. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to support students in their educational pursuits. This scholarship is specifically for Eastern Connecticut residents in good academic standing who are pursuing studies in culinary arts, with secondary preference for those studying music. The approximate award is $500.

The Marge Christensen Gould Memorial Scholarship, valued at $1,500 annually, honors the legacy of Marge Gould, a dedicated educator at Catalina High School. It aims to support students from Southern Arizona, especially those graduating from specific local high schools. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and can re-apply for up to four years. This initiative emphasizes the importance of education in fostering future leaders within the community.

The Pat & Ernestine Patterson Music Scholarship, established in 1983, offers $500 to graduating seniors of New London High School who show a talent and interest in music, particularly jazz, and plan to attend a 4-year accredited institution. With over $11.9 million awarded in scholarships by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, this scholarship aims to support students in their educational pursuits and foster their musical talents.

The CFSA General Scholarship aims to empower future leaders by providing essential financial support for education. Offered by the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, this renewable scholarship is available for up to four years, rewarding students with increasing amounts from $2,000 in their first year to $4,000 in subsequent years. Eligible applicants must maintain a 2.5 GPA and be a graduate from a Southern Arizona high school, ensuring they have the opportunity to pursue their academic dreams.

The Leonard-Litz Foundation's LGBTQ+ Advocacy Fund Grant aims to empower LGBTQ+ individuals by funding organizations that advocate for their rights and well-being. With a focus on health, wellness, and racial justice, the fund supports projects that require significant investment for impactful change. Prioritizing partnerships that serve vulnerable communities, including people of color and transgender individuals, this grant fosters equality and addresses systemic inequalities faced by LGBTQ+ people, especially in the northeast U.S.

The Leonard Litz Foundation supports LGBTQ+ organizations through grants that promote health, wellness, crisis intervention, racial justice, advocacy, and social assistance. Priority is given to organizations in the northeast U.S. and those serving communities of color and transgender individuals. Applications that clearly link funding requests to specific needs will receive stronger consideration. The foundation aims to foster a supportive environment for the LGBTQ+ community to thrive.

The Margaret Mary Curtin Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides $500 to support female students from Southeastern CT pursuing degrees in government or politics. Since 1983, the Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to help students achieve their educational and career goals. Awards are paid directly to colleges by August 1, ensuring timely funding for recipients.

The Helen M. Clymer Scholarship Fund, established by the Berks County Community Foundation, supports single mothers in Berks County who are pursuing their education. Annually, scholarships are awarded to mothers who have sole guardianship of children aged 17 or younger, enabling them to achieve their educational goals. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities and supporting local families in need.

The Studebaker National Foundation Scholarship supports students pursuing careers in automotive studies. With over $20,000 awarded for technical and trade education in auto restoration, this scholarship encourages applicants to maintain the legacy of Studebaker. Eligible candidates include those studying automotive fields or those engaged with Studebaker as hobbyists. A minimum GPA of 2.5 is required, and preference is given to members of Studebaker clubs or their relatives. Reapplications from previous recipients are allowed.

The Patricia K. Drake Scholarship, established by Bill Mayo to honor his mother-in-law, supports New London high school seniors of color pursuing education in healthcare or human services. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has provided over $11.9 million in scholarships to help students achieve their career goals. Each award is approximately $800, with disbursements to colleges made by August 1. This initiative encourages diversity and empowers future leaders in critical service areas.

The Berks County Scholastic Athletic Trainer’s Association Scholarship Fund, established in 2005 by the Berks County Community Foundation, awards scholarships to graduating seniors from Berks County high schools. Eligible students must have two years of experience as student trainers and plan to pursue a degree in Sports Medicine. This initiative not only supports the students' educational aspirations but also recognizes their dedication to athletic training, fostering future professionals in the field.

The Pfizer Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides $1,000 awards to graduating seniors from select high schools in New London County, CT, and Westerly High School, RI, pursuing STEM studies at accredited colleges. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, supporting students in achieving their educational and career goals. Notably, children of Pfizer employees are ineligible for this scholarship.

The Sean Duzant Memorial Scholarship, established in memory of a talented athlete and lab technician, provides $2,000 to students from Southeastern CT pursuing studies in biology or demonstrating excellence in soccer. This scholarship honors Sean's legacy and passion for education, aiming to support those who share his dedication. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, helping students achieve their educational goals and rewarding careers.

The Shirley Bradway Serafin Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides financial support to residents of Northeastern Connecticut pursuing nursing studies. Since 1983, over $11.9 million in scholarships have been awarded to help students achieve their educational goals. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and can receive up to $5,000 over four years, with awards disbursed to colleges by August 1.

The Albert Boscov Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Berks County Community Foundation, offers scholarships to graduating seniors from Berks County high schools pursuing education in performing arts, entertainment, or sports management. Founded in 1994, the foundation aims to help individuals and organizations achieve their charitable goals, managing numerous funds that distribute millions in scholarships and grants annually to support local students and nonprofit causes.

Boom & Bucket's Student Scholarship Program aims to provide a $1,000 scholarship each year to students pursuing heavy machinery programs at colleges or trade schools in the U.S. and Canada. This initiative supports both current and future students, ensuring access to quality education regardless of financial background. By investing in education, Boom & Bucket hopes to foster the next generation of heavy equipment professionals while demonstrating its commitment to transparency and customer service.

The William Emberton Scholarship, established in memory of Bill Emberton, awards $1,000 to students in Eastern Connecticut who demonstrate a strong interest in literature and poetry. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has distributed over $11.9 million in scholarships. This scholarship honors Bill's legacy as a passionate literary advocate and civic volunteer, supporting local students in their educational pursuits and fostering a love for literature.

The Viola A. and Henry W. Turner Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports high school seniors from Southeastern CT pursuing a four-year degree, particularly in education. Since 1983, over $11.9 million in scholarships have been awarded. The scholarship provides approximately $500, with awards sent to colleges by August 1, and is primarily need-based.

The St. Mary Catholic Community School Scholarship, established in 1989 by Dr. John Birdzell and the Crown Point Rotary, aims to enrich the quality of life in South Lake County. This non-renewable scholarship is available to graduating high school seniors who are alumni of St. Mary's Catholic Community School and actively involved in religious activities. Award recipients are invited to a special Scholarship Awards Night on May 7, 2026.

The Energy, Power, Control, and Networks (EPCN) Program, managed by the National Science Foundation, fosters innovative research in multi-agent systems, resource allocation, and machine learning. It focuses on applications in energy, transportation, and robotics, while emphasizing the integration of renewable energy into power systems. EPCN also explores advanced power electronics, cybersecurity for grids, and the development of adaptive systems. This program encourages groundbreaking advancements in energy-efficient technologies and promotes collaboration in addressing complex challenges.

The Tri Kappa Scholarship, established by the Crown Point Community Foundation, aims to enrich the quality of life in South Lake County by providing financial assistance to graduating high school seniors who are residents of Crown Point, IN, and involved in community service. This non-renewable scholarship invites awardees to a special Scholarship Awards Night on May 7, 2026, at the Halls of St. George.

The Dj Wetzel Fund, established in 2017 at the Berks County Community Foundation, offers scholarships to members of Berks County UCC churches pursuing higher education. This initiative supports students enrolled in various educational programs, including colleges, vocational schools, and life enrichment courses. Previous scholarship recipients can reapply in subsequent years, ensuring opportunities for continued educational advancement without preferential treatment. This fund contributes to the foundation's goal of benefiting local students and community causes.