Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Pennsylvania

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Brenda and Charles Muller Scholarship

Brenda Muller was an avid reader. The last seven years of her career with the State of Ohio were in the Department of Education. Charles Muller was the recipient of a scholarship that made an otherwise unobtainable college education possible. His studies of America’s material culture could not have been without the assistance of many libraries. Libraries are the keepers of history, the preservers of culture and the gateway to the pursuit of intellectual curiosity.

The CTIA Wireless Foundation's Catalyst Grant Program aims to empower social entrepreneurs leveraging 5G technology to tackle critical challenges in American communities. With over $200,000 in unrestricted grants available, the program supports innovative projects that utilize 5G connectivity for social good. As 5G transforms communication and interaction, the Catalyst Grant seeks visionary leaders who can harness this potential to inspire meaningful change and enhance community engagement.

Raymond and Paulette Cox Scholarhsip (Piedmont)

Provides scholarship to a Piedmont graduating senior with a GPA of 3.0-3.00, attending a two- or four-year college or university and majoring in health services or public service.

The SLEEP Travel Grant for Sleep Technologists and Advanced Practice Providers, funded by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine Foundation, offers a $2,000 grant to support first-time attendance at the SLEEP 2026 meeting. This initiative aims to enhance engagement among non-physician members of the sleep team, such as sleep technologists and advanced practice providers, while promoting networking opportunities within the sleep community.

The Space Technology Research, Development, Demonstration, and Infusion (SpaceTech REDDI-2026) initiative by NASA aims to advance transformational space technologies to meet critical stakeholder needs. This umbrella solicitation for FY 2026 will invite proposals across various technology topics, promoting innovation and competitiveness in the U.S. space sector. With a focus on economic growth and fostering a strong aerospace community, STMD supports ideas from diverse innovators nationwide.

The Remote Biomarker Measurements in Microphysiological Systems Grant seeks innovative proposals to enhance remote biomarker analysis technologies for microphysiological systems, crucial for deep space missions. It prioritizes non-invasive, adaptable methods that allow for continuous monitoring of biomarkers without sample return. This initiative aims to advance personalized healthcare and biological research, addressing astronaut health in challenging environments. Eligible entities include U.S. institutions and collaborations with foreign entities under specific conditions.

The CCS High School Chemical Safety Grant, offered by the American Chemical Society, aims to enhance chemical safety in secondary education. Educators can apply for up to $3,000 to support initiatives like curriculum integration of safety practices, advocating for safe chemical usage, and improving safety infrastructure. Eligible applicants include middle and high school science teachers in the U.S. Grants cover training, equipment, and workshops to promote a culture of safety in educational environments.

The Michael Scott Kramer Memorial Scholarship, offered by the San Juan Island Community Foundation, is designed for post-secondary students pursuing education in fields like recreation, adventure tourism, and marine trades. This scholarship honors Mike Kramer, a beloved outdoorsman, by encouraging students to embrace life and adventure. Candidates should demonstrate community service, a strong work ethic, and a passion for their studies. It aims to inspire the next generation to live authentically and pursue their dreams.

The Zimmer Biomet Foundation offers educational grants to support organizations that focus on scientific, clinical, or healthcare education. These grants promote educational programs, independent conferences, and resident education, ensuring that the content remains unbiased and free from influence. Eligible applicants include educational institutions, training hospitals, and medical associations, while requests from individuals or private practices are not supported. By fostering education in healthcare, the foundation aims to improve community well-being and advance medical knowledge.

The ACS-Hach Professional Development Grant provides up to $2,500 to support high school chemistry teachers in the U.S. as they pursue professional development opportunities. This grant aims to enhance teaching and learning in chemistry by funding activities such as conferences, workshops, and educational resources. It is designed to improve educators' skills and boost student achievement, thereby fostering a better learning environment in chemistry classrooms.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to establish a fund with us. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Wright, Gary C Scholarship

This fund was established in memory of Gary C Wright by his family to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors of the St. Joseph School District intending to major in education with preference given to those in math and/or science.

Guidelines:

• Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in August.
• Awards are non-renewable.

Amount:

• $250 - $500

Stanislaus Community Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students in order to help them achieve their educational and career goals. We believe that by investing in our students, we are investing in a brighter future for Stanislaus. 

Robert Woolley Scholarship

Open to graduating seniors from Stanislaus County attending a four-year university to study horticulture.

Award Amount:

• $10,000

Artis offers exhibition grants to support contemporary artists from Israel, aiming to promote critical dialogue and cultural exchange in international settings. These grants facilitate presentations at renowned organizations globally, focusing on innovative and impactful projects that engage with pressing social and environmental issues. The program prioritizes proposals that demonstrate curatorial ambition and artistic experimentation, fostering collaboration across diverse disciplines. Artis is committed to shaping a sustainable art world while addressing urgent global challenges through artistic practice.

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.

Sue Aplington Kreutz Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was established in 2020 to support first-year college students accepted into a four-year college or university.

The NewSchools: Learning Solutions Grant Program aims to empower K-8 students by enhancing their literacy and numeracy skills, crucial for overcoming educational challenges exacerbated by the pandemic. With a focus on innovative learning solutions, the program seeks to fund early-stage ideas that engage students and support educators. By leveraging research and technology, including generative AI, it aims to create equitable educational opportunities, fostering a brighter future for all students.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Clemens-Clair Future Educators Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is named for Clemens J. Rosen and Clair J. Hemphill – two fathers who encouraged and paid for their daughters to pursue college educations. Both believed an educated woman had more opportunities and would be better able to take care of herself and her family.

Clemens Rosen (1919-2016) did not finish grade school as he was needed on the farm. However, nobody could beat him in Scrabble. He served in WWII on a B24, was shot down twice and was held in a Nazi POW camp until the end of the war. He then took employment in Peoria, IL, first working for Western Electric and then as a foreman for Caterpillar Tractor Company.

Clair Hemphill (1912-1979) finished high school and was a life-long farmer in Elwood, Illinois. Clair’s father was a farmer as was his grandfather and others before him. Clair’s mother was a teacher until she married. He had a strong belief in women pursuing education and was proud that his daughter did just that.

This scholarship is a $10,000 scholarship, awarding $5,000 for two consecutive years providing that students maintain their enrollment status. 

Stanislaus Community Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students in order to help them achieve their educational and career goals. We believe that by investing in our students, we are investing in a brighter future for Stanislaus. 

Dr. Grant E. & Colleen Bare Scholarship

Open to current Modesto Junior College students and Stanislaus County students planning to transfer to a four-year college and pursue a degree in the fields of science, medical sciences and/or mathematics. 

Award Amount:

• Up to $3,500

The Peterson Foundation Grant, established in 1944 by Hal and Charlie Peterson, supports charitable organizations within Kerr, Bandera, Edwards, Gillespie, Kendall, Kimble, and Real Counties. The Foundation primarily funds health care and education initiatives, and applications are accepted year-round from §501(c)(3) organizations in the service area. Notably, grants are not available for religious purposes, political actions, or individuals, ensuring a focus on community enrichment.

The AJ Muste Foundation's Rapid Response Grants support U.S.-based organizations engaged in grassroots activism for social justice. These grants, up to $5,000, are aimed at addressing immediate needs of groups fighting for equality and liberation. The funding is designed for unexpected opportunities and emergencies, promoting powerful organizing efforts. The foundation prioritizes groups lacking traditional funding sources and those focused on systemic change rather than individual support.

John A. & Louise V. Maslin Scholarship

Essay:

• On the topic “The Importance of Art, Science or Math in Society.”

Award:

• One time award of $1,000.

The Matthew Isakowitz Commercial Space Scholarship, presented by the Commercial Space Federation and the Matthew Isakowitz Foundation Programs, is an annual scholarship aimed at college students passionate about the commercial space industry. Recipients are awarded $1,000 and gain internship consideration and networking opportunities with industry leaders. The program emphasizes the importance of space policy knowledge, encouraging students to follow Matthew Isakowitz's legacy of kindness and generosity while pursuing careers in this evolving field.

About Us

Harbor Freight is America’s #1 Tool Store with more than 1600 locations nationwide. Founded in 1977 by Eric Smidt, the company began as a small mail-order tool business in North Hollywood, California. Over 75 million customers have come to Harbor Freight for our unmatched assortment of quality tools at an unbeatable value, including automotive, air and power tools, storage, outdoor power equipment, generators, welding supplies, shop equipment, hand tools, and much more.

Harbor Freight Tools Gift Card Donation Requests

If you are a Harbor Freight Associate and have been affected by an unexpected, unavoidable crisis and are in financial need, please apply to our Employee Emergency Relief Fund (EERF). To apply, go to www.myHFT.com to review our FAQs, guidelines, eligibility requirements and application form.

For all other donation requests, please note that we have recently updated our criteria. You can find the current eligibility requirements below.

All donations are given in the form of Harbor Freight Store gift cards. We do not provide cash donations, event sponsorships or support for individuals.

Harbor Freight Tools proudly supports the following:

Skilled Trades Education

• Skilled trades classes that emphasize the expert use of tools and materials to build, repair and maintain products and structures. Fields include Agricultural Mechanics, Carpentry, Construction, Electrical, HVAC, Advanced Manufacturing, Plumbing, Transportation Mechanics and Repair, and Welding
• Donation requests must be submitted by a K-12 public-school teacher for their own school/classroom. Harbor Freight store gift cards are given directly to the school/teacher requesting one. We do not provide donations to outside organizations, clubs or third parties.

The Our Legacy Fund Grants, offered by the McKean County Community Foundation, aim to empower nonprofit organizations in McKean County through strategic financial support. With a maximum award of $10,000, these grants seek to foster social change, promote equity, and address unmet community needs. Eligible applicants include schools, municipalities, and 501c3 organizations serving the community. This initiative reflects MCCF's commitment to building a sustainable foundation for future generations.

The Stanley C. Israel Regional Award for Advancing Diversity in the Chemical Sciences recognizes individuals or institutions promoting inclusiveness in the chemical sciences. This award includes a medal, a $1,250 grant, and reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,500 for attending the ACS regional meeting where the award is presented. Eligible nominees must foster programs that increase participation from diverse groups in the chemical enterprise.

The Local Share Account (LSA) program in Northampton and Lehigh Counties provides funding for economic and community development projects as mandated by Act 71. These funds support initiatives that enhance public interest and stimulate growth in the region. Eligible projects include those that foster business development and improve community infrastructure, ensuring that the local population benefits from the investments made. The program aims to utilize gaming revenue to support valuable public services.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Kent R. Smith Scholarship

Student must be pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in the field of education at an accredited college or university.

Selection based upon:

• Academic ability, financial need, demonstrated community and school service, and recommendations.

Various amounts up to $20,000 in scholarships

The Multi-Municipal Collaboration Grant, offered by the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority, supports innovative partnerships among local governments and organizations in Erie County. Launched in 2012, this program aims to enhance economic growth and foster cooperation among municipalities. Grants provide essential matching funds for projects that improve community resources, promote quality of life, and advance strategic initiatives in areas like small business development and municipal operations. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until November 30, 2024.