Best Polk County Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) is set to issue a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for randomized controlled trials examining the long-term effects of nutritional interventions on risk factors for age-related chronic conditions. This initiative seeks to enhance understanding of how various dietary practices can influence health throughout the life span, emphasizing the need for studies with at least five years of follow-up. Researchers are encouraged to prepare collaborative proposals in response to this upcoming funding opportunity.

The National Institutes on Deafness and other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) is inviting applications for a Coordinating Center for the National Human Ear Resource Network. This initiative aims to enhance research on auditory and vestibular disorders by providing essential resources, facilitating collaboration among laboratories, and promoting the use of human ear tissues in studies. The Center will play a pivotal role in coordinating activities, sharing updates with the scientific community, and supporting various research efforts across the nation.

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) invites proposals for Specialized Alcohol Research Centers (P50) to enhance interdisciplinary research on alcohol misuse and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). These centers aim to foster collaboration among researchers, focusing on innovative topics related to alcohol's effects on health across the lifespan. The program supports the development of research methodologies and mentorship for young investigators, addressing the complex challenges posed by alcohol misuse in society.

The ORACLE 3C initiative focuses on advancing research into chronic conditions, coinfections, and comorbidities related to HIV. It aims to support early-career investigators through innovative approaches that diverge from existing methodologies. Emphasizing pediatric and maternal health, this funding opportunity encourages interdisciplinary research to better understand HIV-specific pathways and develop effective preventive and therapeutic strategies, addressing a significant public health concern.

The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) is launching a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) aimed at enhancing genomic research through the development and distribution of high-value resources. This initiative encourages collaborative efforts in genomic resource development and the integration of data science in clinical applications. While applications are not currently being accepted, prospective applicants are urged to prepare meaningful collaborations and projects ahead of the formal solicitation.

The Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) aims to cultivate skilled clinician-scientist leaders to meet the nation's biomedical research demands. It supports domestic organizations in developing dual-degree training that integrates clinical and research education, leading to both a clinical degree (e.g., M.D., D.O.) and a Ph.D. Through comprehensive mentoring and career development, MSTP prepares trainees for impactful careers in health-related research, ensuring a robust pipeline of qualified scientists.

The Native American Research Centers for Health (NARCH) program supports federally-recognized American Indian and Alaska Native Tribes and organizations in advancing health-related research. It aims to enhance research careers and infrastructure through a competitive application process. Funded by the US Dept. of Health & Human Services, this initiative invites eligible entities to apply, ensuring that only high-quality proposals undergo peer review for potential funding.

Grand Rapids Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that connects people, passion and resources. With our partners, the Community Foundation uses the tools of philanthropy to find solutions to pressing issues. We provide grants to support the work of nonprofits, scholarships to local students and other forms of support to communities working to eliminate barriers to opportunity, prosperity and belonging.

Scholarships

Each year Grand Rapids Community Foundation supports hundreds of students on their college or career training journeys. We are excited to remove barriers to academic success so that students like you can pursue what you're passionate about.

Harry and Lucille Brown Scholarship

Open to students who are residents of Kent County. Preference to Challenge Scholar students through 2032.

Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains

Our mission at the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is to improve the region’s quality of life through the power of philanthropy. We do this by offering individuals, families, and businesses the most effective charitable giving tools available in the marketplace today. Founded in 1998, the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is honored to work with hundreds of donors, nonprofits, advisors, and civic leaders to achieve dreams for making the Endless Mountains region of Northeastern Pennsylvania an even better place to live for everyone.

Scholarships

Many generous individuals, families, and businesses have established scholarship funds to provide support to graduates in our region. Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors.

Thomas Conaty Memorial Scholarship

Established by the family of Mr. Conaty to provide a college or post-secondary degree program scholarship to a student from Blue Ridge, Elk Lake or Montrose Area School Districts, including home schooled students from those districts. Preference will be given to a student who will pursue a degree in business or a related field.

Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains

Our mission at the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is to improve the region’s quality of life through the power of philanthropy. We do this by offering individuals, families, and businesses the most effective charitable giving tools available in the marketplace today. Founded in 1998, the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains is honored to work with hundreds of donors, nonprofits, advisors, and civic leaders to achieve dreams for making the Endless Mountains region of Northeastern Pennsylvania an even better place to live for everyone.

Scholarships

Many generous individuals, families, and businesses have established scholarship funds to provide support to graduates in our region. Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors.

Robert and Diane Turrell Family Scholarship

Established by Robert and Diane Hill Turrell. Provides a post-secondary scholarship to a high school graduate who is a student of good moral character and who demonstrates financial need through their Student Aid Report. Students from Lackawanna Trail, Tunkhannock, Elk Lake, Homeschooled and Wyalusing Valley High Schools may apply. Priority will be given to students living in Habitat for Humanity Housing. The recipient may re-apply during each of the remaining years of undergraduate study until reaching the age of 25.

The Scholarships for Careers Endowment, established by a local family in connection with the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains, aims to support graduates of Elk Lake School District and the Susquehanna County Career & Technology Center. This scholarship prioritizes students with financial need and promise for future success, assisting them in pursuing vocational, technical, academic, or other post-secondary programs. Additionally, it contributes to special projects within the school district and community.

The Fred and Betty Worsh Scholarship Fund, managed by the North Carolina Community Foundation, offers financial support to residents of New Hanover and Brunswick Counties who are U.S. citizens attending accredited four-year colleges or universities. Scholarships are available to undergraduates, graduates, and adult re-entry students, and may be renewed annually based on academic performance and financial need. Applications open on December 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026.

Scholarships

We partner with donors to administer scholarships for students across the state. Most NCCF scholarships open for applications on Dec. 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026.

Undergraduates, graduates, medical and professional school students and adult re-entry students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities, career/technical schools, teaching credential programs and graduate, medical or professional schools in the United States are eligible for scholarships offered at NCCF.

Each scholarship has specific eligibility requirements defined by the donor when the scholarship was established. Be sure to read the requirements of each scholarship carefully as directed through the universal application and address those elements as needed in your application.

Grayce Wills MacDonald and Ivan A. MacDonald Endowment

Shall support students who attended high school in Cherokee, Graham, Clay, Swain, Macon, Jackson, Haywood, Buncombe, and Henderson counties, and who are pursuing a college or post-graduate level degree in the field of nutrition with emphasis on the study of natural foods and the vegetarian lifestyle. Scholarships may be based on both need and merit.

The JADE Learning Electrical Technologies Scholarship supports students enrolled in North Carolina technical or occupational schools focused on electrical systems technologies. Eligible candidates include undergraduates, graduates, and apprentices who demonstrate financial need and strong academic performance. The scholarship application requires careful attention to specific donor-defined eligibility criteria. Applications open on December 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026, with preference given to those pursuing a two-year associate’s degree.

The Joyce Price Johnson’s Samaritan Fund provides scholarships for young people in North Carolina who are exiting foster care or facing poverty. Eligible candidates include undergraduates, graduates, and adult re-entry students attending various accredited institutions. Applications for NCCF scholarships open on December 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026. Preference is given to applicants from Wayne County and adjacent areas, ensuring support for those with exceptional financial need.

The NC Hunter and Jumper Association’s Norah Morris Memorial Scholarship Endowment supports individuals pursuing higher education who have engaged in equestrian activities. Open to undergraduates, graduates, and adult re-entry students, the scholarship aims to assist those attending various educational institutions in the United States. Applications for NCCF scholarships will be accepted from December 16, 2025, to March 3, 2026. Be sure to check specific eligibility requirements for each scholarship.

The Computational Mathematics program supports research that integrates computation with mathematical analysis, encouraging innovative algorithm development and application. Proposals may range from individual projects to interdisciplinary teams, focusing on new computational techniques to address significant application challenges. The program also emphasizes training for junior mathematicians through hands-on research. Conference proposals must adhere to strict submission timelines to ensure review and funding opportunities, fostering collaboration within the mathematical sciences.

The Linguistics Program, supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF), promotes fundamental research in human language. It covers various areas including syntax, semantics, and phonetics, encouraging interdisciplinary projects that explore language production, comprehension, and social factors influencing language change. The program welcomes proposals from qualified scholars, including those focusing on endangered languages, while emphasizing the importance of basic research over applied methods. For more details, refer to the NSF's guidelines.

The Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) focuses on enhancing education and workforce development in food and agricultural sciences. It invites applications for various grants aimed at professional development, non-formal education for youth, community college training, and fellowships for both predoctoral and postdoctoral candidates. The program, managed by the USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture, emphasizes the cultivation of skills necessary for the future workforce in agriculture, with multiple deadlines for submissions.

The ROSS Rapid Response Program (RRP) by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides expedited funding to assist communities in addressing urgent social needs. This program offers one-time cost-reimbursable grants for service coordination and direct services, especially in response to emergencies like natural disasters or public health crises. By streamlining the application process, the RRP empowers local leaders to efficiently support residents in HUD-assisted housing, promoting self-sufficiency and resilience.

The ROSES25: B.2 Heliophysics Foundational Research program invites proposals for foundational research in heliophysics. The submission deadline for Step-1 proposals is May 1, 2026, with Step-2 deadlines announced 60 days prior. Amendments include an increase in Step-1 proposal length from two to three pages and clarification on budget expectations per award. Individuals may serve as Principal Investigators for only one proposal, with exceptions for specific institutional requirements.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is offering Postdoctoral Research Fellowships in Biology to support innovative research at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Biological Sciences. These fellowships aim to cultivate expertise in both fields, enabling scientists to leverage AI for breakthroughs in biotechnology and bio-system design. The program encourages proposals that utilize existing biological data and infrastructure to enhance discovery and innovation, ultimately benefiting human lives and the U.S. economy.

The Peter S. Slomianyj Scholarship Fund offers financial assistance to Subway employees and their children who meet specific eligibility criteria, including a minimum of 500 work hours over the past year and a GPA of 2.0 in high school or 2.5 in college. Applications for this scholarship will be open from December 16, 2025, to March 3, 2026. It is part of a broader initiative by the North Carolina Community Foundation to support students pursuing education at various institutions.

The National Quantum and Nanotechnology Infrastructure (NQNI) program by the NSF aims to enhance research in emerging technologies like quantum computing and AI. By establishing a nationwide network of accessible research facilities, NQNI will facilitate innovation and collaboration among researchers. The program emphasizes user facility capabilities and plans for outreach, education, and workforce development, ultimately supporting the nation's quantum and nanotechnology advancements.

The Greater Kansas City Community Foundation is one of the most well-respected, knowledgeable leaders on charitable giving in the nation. We make giving convenient and efficient for donors through donor-advised funds and other types of charitable giving accounts that maximize and organize giving.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Kansas City Pride Community Alliance Scholarship Fund

The KCPCA Scholarship provides needed financial assistance to support LGBTQ+ students who are resident of Jackson, Clay, Platte or Buchannan counties in Missouri and Johnson, Wyandotte or Douglas counties in Kansas of all background and educational interests. We prioritize LGBTA+ students who need it most and who have some or all of the following experiences:

• People of color, Black, Indigenous
• Trans, Non-binary, Gender Expansive, Two spirit people
• People with disabilities – including people living with chronic illnesses, HIV, neurodivergence, mental health challenges
• People who have or are experiencing housing instability
• People living in rural areas
• People who have financial need without access to financial support
• People who have experienced family rejection.

Award

• $1,000

Our mission is to enhance quality of life, today and in the future, by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Building a permanent endowment
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Meeting needs through grants, awards, and scholarships

CFCC: Solomon Valley Community Foundation: Fine Arts Future Development Scholarship

Graduating high school seniors in the Solomon Valley area, including Mitchell, Cloud, and Jewell Counties, that are pursuing a major in Instrumental Music or Art.

Gamma Mu Foundation

The Gamma Mu Foundation provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that serve clients and communities, particularly in rural and underserved areas across the United States. The Foundation awards grants for initiatives focused on community support services, public education and research, and HIV and health programs benefiting the LGBTQ+ community.

Additionally, the Foundation offers academic scholarships to LGBTQ+ individuals facing financial hardship and the impacts of discrimination. These scholarships are designed for those who actively support their local LGBTQ+ communities and demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing their education or vocational training. The Gamma Mu Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Scholarships

The Gamma Mu Foundation is committed to supporting the academic aspirations of gay men and LGBTQ+ students through our annual scholarship program. Scholarships provide financial assistance for a wide range of educational paths, including vocational training, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and graduate or professional programs.

Scholarships are awarded exclusively for full-time study at accredited institutions or programs chosen by the student.

Students attending community colleges or accredited vocational programs are encouraged to apply.

Applicants must select one scholarship category that reflects both their academic status for the upcoming fall term and identity. Categories include:

• Gay Male First-Year Student – For students entering college or technical school directly from high school.
• Gay Male Undergraduate Student – For current, returning, or adult undergraduate students enrolled in a college or technical school.
• Gay Male Graduate Student – For students pursuing graduate or professional degrees.
• LGBTQ+ Undergraduate Student – Open to undergraduate students of all LGBTQ+ identities.
• LGBTQ+ Graduate Student – Open to graduate and professional students of all LGBTQ+ identities.

Submitting multiple applications or applying in a category that does not align with your academic status or identity may lead to disqualification. 

Use of Scholarship

Scholarships may be used to cover tuition, books, fees, and other college-related expenses at accredited colleges, universities, vocational, or professional schools. All scholarship funds are disbursed directly to the institution and must be applied to the fall or spring term following the award. The scholarship is a one-time grant, and continued financial support beyond the initial award is not implied. Please see FAQ section.

Award Duration

• Scholarships are awarded for one year only.
• Recipients must reapply each year for funding consideration.
• The Foundation does not offer multi-year scholarships.

Applications are assessed based on the following criteria:

• Financial need
• Experience overcoming discrimination or marginalization
• Leadership in promoting diversity and inclusion
• Demonstrated LGBTQ+ community involvement
• Educational and career goals
• Extracurricular activities
• Academic and professional achievements