Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Pennsylvania

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.

The Clinical & Translational Science Award TL1 Postdoc Fellowship Training Grant offers comprehensive support for biomedical researchers at Vanderbilt University. This program empowers scholars through career development tools, mentoring opportunities, and participation in national Translational Science meetings. Trainees must hold a doctoral degree and be committed to translational research while pursuing full-time training. This fellowship fosters innovation and collaboration among researchers, enhancing their contributions to the field.

The IEEE Computer Society Grant, offered by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, provides funding up to $10,000 to support STEM outreach efforts. This program encourages IEEE members to engage pre-university students in engineering and computing through various initiatives. With multiple funding levels, it aims to inspire the next generation of technology innovators and promote awareness of the engineering profession, ensuring that engineering is accessible and exciting for all.

Love Your Block

Love Your Block is a City of Pittsburgh program that brings neighbors together to improve our communities by combating blight, creating assets, and building resilience, block by block.

Community organizations across Pittsburgh are invited to apply for $500 and $1000 grants, and a limited number could qualify for a $1,500 grant. These grants will function as a reimbursement.

Examples of successful projects include:

• Community garden maintenance / improvements
• Artistic Board-Ups
• Tree and flower planting
• Beautification projects involving a parcel of land owned by the City or the community group applying for the grant.

The Limited Competition: Institutional Mentored Research Career Development Program aims to enhance the CTSA Program by fostering the development of postdoctoral fellows and junior faculty. This initiative focuses on training individuals for independent clinical and translational science careers, ensuring they are well-prepared for research engagement. Funded by the NIH, the program supports a national network of academic centers to facilitate the transition of scientific discoveries into practical health solutions.

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.

The Toshiba America Foundation offers grants of $5,000 or more to support innovative STEM projects for grades 6-12 in public and nonprofit private schools across the U.S. These grants encourage teachers to implement project-based learning in their classrooms. Founded in 1990, the foundation aims to enhance STEM education by providing necessary resources and support for educators to inspire their students. Applications require school official endorsement and must focus on innovative teaching methods.

The BJA FY26 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement - Formula Grants Program supports state agencies in enhancing forensic science capabilities. The program aims to improve public safety by funding initiatives that strengthen forensic science and support law enforcement efforts. Eligible applicants can submit their full applications through JustGrants by November 6, 2026. This funding is crucial for addressing ongoing challenges in the justice system, including violent crime and public safety concerns.

The Gunther & Lee Weigel Medical School Scholarship is an exclusive opportunity for current and former Elks National Foundation scholarship recipients pursuing medical or osteopathic degrees. This scholarship, established in memory of Gunther Weigel, aims to support Elks scholars entering their first year of medical school. The number and amount of scholarships vary annually, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to healthcare education.

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.

Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) 

Founded in 1967, the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) is a national community of academic leaders committed to developing an accomplished family medicine workforce, prepared to serve as the foundation of America’s health care system. Our members include physicians, PAs, nurse practitioners, behavioral health specialists, researchers, pharmacists, nurses and other health care professionals, health system executives, administrators, coordinators, fellows, residents, students, and others involved in the education of family physicians. 

STFM Excellence in Education Award

Designed to honor outstanding teachers, the STFM Excellence in Education Award recognizes an STFM member who has demonstrated excellence in teaching, curriculum development, mentoring, research, or leadership in education at regional or national levels. Nominees must have sustained involvement in family medicine education.

The selection is made by the STFM Nominations Committee and approved by the STFM Board of Directors. Nominations are ranked based on the:

• Contributions recognized at the home institution
• Regional/national impact of nominee's activities
• Sustained involvement in family medicine education

Nominees must be STFM members. Members of the Nominations Committee are not eligible to receive the award while serving on the Committee.

American Society of Civil Engineers 

The American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 160,000 members of the civil engineering profession in 177 countries. Founded in 1852, ASCE is the nation’s oldest national civil engineering society.

ASCE stands at the forefront of a profession that plans, designs, constructs, and operates society’s economic and social engine – the built environment – while protecting and restoring the natural environment.

G. B. Mann Scholarship

All scholarships are awarded on an equal opportunity basis to current high school senior students who attend school in the Dallas Branch region (Collin, Cooke, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Kaufman, Navarro, and Rockwall Counties) and who will be attending an institution of higher learning in the 2026 Fall Semester in pursuit of a degree in Civil Engineering.

About G. B. Mann

The (Dallas) Branch Scholarship Fund was established in the early 90s when David Schnurbusch was the Branch president. In 1993, the Fund received a large boost from George Boley Mann, when he contributed a large sum of his retirement investments to the Fund. Numerous Dallas area high school and college students have benefited from his large and kind endowment. He did not want any publicity for this contribution.

An ASCE Past President and Life Member, Mr. Mann received a degree in Civil Engineering from SMU. During WWII he worked in Ordinance Department at Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland. He retired from Texas Department of Transportation after 34 years of service. He was active in ASCE and NSPE. He contributed to the construction of numerous Texas highways. He mentored many young engineers.

The U.S. Venture/Schmidt Family Foundation supports initiatives that drive self-sufficiency and community enrichment for vulnerable populations. With over $4.31 million awarded last year, the foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate measurable impact and foster stronger communities. Eligible organizations include those designated as public charities by the IRS. The foundation emphasizes collaboration with other funders, avoiding sole financial support to ensure comprehensive community development.

The Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) Program aims to enhance the translation of scientific research into effective health interventions by establishing a national network of academic medical centers. This program supports integrated research and training environments for clinical and translational science, promoting the development of innovative methods and technologies. The reissuance of the CTSA Notice of Funding Opportunity invites eligible organizations to apply, with peer-reviewed applications prioritized for funding.

The Convention Inclusion Travel Grant, provided by the Association for Slavic, East European, and Eurasian Studies (ASEEES), aims to promote diversity in the field of Slavic and East European studies. It supports BA, MA, and PhD students from diverse backgrounds to attend the ASEEES Annual Convention, fostering understanding of racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ community members, and individuals with disabilities in Eastern Europe and Eurasia.

The Edward Mallinckrodt, Jr. Foundation provides crucial support for early-stage biomedical researchers in the first four years of their tenure-track positions at American institutions. With grants of $75,000 annually for up to three years, this funding aims to help investigators advance their projects towards securing independent funding. The foundation emphasizes the importance of a clear project description and requires a one to two-page lay summary, making it accessible to both scientific and non-scientific board members.

The Growing Research Access for Nationally Transformative Equity and Diversity program, funded by the National Science Foundation, aims to enhance the research enterprise by addressing structural barriers and promoting inclusivity. By focusing on administrative support and innovative strategies, the initiative seeks to empower diverse organizations to participate in research. Proposals should target institution-wide impacts and scalable models that strengthen human capital and research practices, fostering a more equitable and competitive research landscape.

The Hugh M. Nelson Engineering Scholarship, funded by the Erie Community Foundation, supports Erie County residents who are sophomores or juniors enrolled in an ABET-accredited BS Engineering Program at Penn State Behrend or Gannon University. Over $800,000 was awarded in 2023 to help deserving students pursue their educational goals. Selection is based on academic standing, faculty recommendations, involvement in college activities, and financial need.

The Franklin Research Grants support noncommercial research by funding travel to libraries and archives, purchasing research materials, and covering fieldwork or laboratory expenses. With a maximum award of $6,000, these grants are aimed at scholars with a doctorate or equivalent publications, excluding Ph.D. candidates. Grants are taxable, not retroactive, and are not intended for conference attendance or publication costs. The program encourages young scholars and allows reapplications after two years.

The BHW Women in STEM Academic Scholarship is a new initiative by The BHW Group, aimed at supporting women pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in undergraduate or master's programs at universities in the United States. This scholarship emphasizes the importance of female representation in STEM fields and provides financial assistance directly to the winner's educational institution.

The PLTW Engineering program, in partnership with Burns and McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by providing grants to public and charter schools in specific counties. This initiative empowers students to engage with real-world challenges through hands-on learning experiences. Eligible schools must offer PLTW Engineering courses, ensuring access to quality education for students from diverse backgrounds. With a total grant of $40,000 over two years, this program seeks to inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators.

The Dream Big Technology Grant by KindCause.org aims to empower registered 501(c)(3) organizations by funding the implementation of Salesforce CRM. This initiative enhances nonprofit operations, enabling better donor management and campaign efficiency. With automated workflows and integrated tools, nonprofits can improve fundraising efforts and save valuable resources. Successful applicants will receive tailored technology roadmaps and potential funding for essential packages, ensuring they maximize their impact in the community.

The PLTW Engineering Program Expansion by Burns and McDonnell aims to enhance STEM education in eligible communities. This initiative supports schools in expanding their existing PLTW Engineering programs, providing students with hands-on experiences and essential skills. The program focuses on empowering students through new courses and teacher training, ensuring access for underrepresented populations. By fostering excitement around STEM, Burns and McDonnell is committed to shaping the future workforce and enhancing educational opportunities in critical areas.

St. Ignace Area Community Foundation

The St. Ignace Area Community Foundation (SIACF) was established in 1995 by a group of concerned citizens who recognized a need and found access to some matching grant funds to enhance the initial contributions to the SIACF. Organized as a member of the Community Foundations of the Upper Peninsula (CFUP), Jack Swope, Fred Stearns, and Dr. A.D. (Don) McKinnon secured an anonymous contribution establishing the Education Enhancement Fund and a contribution from the local American Legion Post establishing the American Legion Fund as the initial Funds within SIACF.

Community Service Scholarship

The St. Ignace Community Fund annually awards scholarships assisting students with higher education based largely on acknowledgement of student responsibility, community service, and civic involvement. These Scholarships are made possible through the generosity of donors to the various accounts within the St. Ignace Area Community Fund. Some accounts specifically are awarded to recognize higher education in the areas of special education, teaching, law enforcement, and health care.  

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors.

The Reuter Scholarship Fund

• Interested in pursuing a career in engineering, science or technology
• Based on good moral character and student’s overall performance as to academic ability and standing, extracurricular activities, success in dealing with life’s challenges in individual circumstances and financial need

The NIAID Physician-Scientist Pathway to Independence Award (K99/R00) aims to support new independent physician-scientists by facilitating their transition from postdoctoral research to tenure-track faculty positions. This program provides essential research funding to help awardees establish their careers in biomedical research, addressing the national shortage of physician-scientists. Applicants must propose research that does not lead an independent clinical trial, but may include mentorship in clinical trials.

The AIAA Rising Stars program empowers underrepresented undergraduate students interested in aerospace by providing scholarships to attend key AIAA events like the AVIATION Forum or ASCEND. Participants receive support for travel, conference registration, and unique networking opportunities with industry leaders. This initiative not only fosters professional growth but also helps build lasting relationships in the aerospace community, celebrating the achievements and potential of future innovators in the field.