Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

The Alexander and Gladys Shepherd Scholarships Trust offers financial support to individuals under 21 in the Taranaki Province pursuing careers in farming or the rural sector. Applicants can be enrolled in agricultural or horticultural studies, as well as other relevant training programs. This initiative seeks to empower the next generation of farmers with the education necessary for their success. Note, veterinary science students are not eligible for these scholarships.

The Hew-Shinn Scholarship Fund honors A.K. Hew's parents and emphasizes education's importance. This scholarship is available to Maui County residents enrolled in accredited vocational programs, with a minimum GPA of 2.0 required. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and submit a letter of recommendation. The application deadline aligns with the pre-proposal deadline, ensuring timely consideration for interested students.

The Dibner Program in the History of Science offers long-term fellowships at The Huntington, a prestigious research institution. Scholars in history, literature, and the history of science can apply for nine to twelve months of support. Recipients are expected to engage with the intellectual community, attend symposiums, and contribute to working groups. This program aims to foster advanced research in fields that align with The Huntington's diverse collections, enhancing scholarly discourse and discovery.

Alabama Rural Health Transformation Program - Simulation Training Initiative

Funding is intended to support the implementation of Simulation Training Initiative projects that advance program goals related to workforce development, access to care, and improved healthcare quality. Depending on the proposed project, funding may support activities such as the development and expansion  of specialty-based simulation training programs, acquisition of simulation equipment, and implementation of training environments designed to improve provider skills and readiness in rural areas.

All funding under this opportunity is expected to be distributed through a competitive subaward process. Selected applicants will be treated as subrecipients and will be required to comply with all applicable federal, state, and programmatic requirements associated with the award. 

Funding Availability

ADECA anticipates making approximately $1,000,000 available under this NOFO, consistent with the CMS-approved Simulation Training Initiative budget. ADECA intends to make awards under the strategy category described in Section I. The number, size, and distribution of awards will depend on application quality, applicant readiness, geographic distribution, and other factors identified in this NOFO. 

The Kahiau Scholarship Fund, established in 2007, aims to support students in Hawaii by providing scholarships based on financial need and academic performance. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and demonstrate community involvement related to the spirit of kahiau, meaning generous giving without expectation. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility requirements. This fund fosters educational opportunities and community spirit among Hawaii's youth.

The Ka'a'awa Community Fund, established by the Ka'a'awa Community Association in 1995, aims to support long-time residents of Kualoa, Ka'a'awa, Makaua, and Kahana. To qualify, applicants must be Hawaii residents in financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet these criteria. This fund exemplifies community support and encourages educational advancement among its local residents.

27-3786-01 Illinois Cycle Rider Safety Training Program

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT or “Department”) is seeking Cycle Rider Safety Training Course Providers (“Providers”) to administer Cycle Rider Safety Training Courses to individuals interested in taking a motorcycle safety course. The Cycle Rider Safety Training Program (CRSTP or “Program”) began in 1976 through Public Act 82-649. Since its inception and through partnerships with grantees, the program has trained over 400,000 students in Illinois.

To aid in reducing fatalities and serious injuries on Illinois roads, the Illinois Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Safety Programs and Engineering (BSPE) administers the CRSTP. Through grantees, the CRSTP offers various levels of motorcycle safety training courses for Illinois residents to reduce motorcycle crashes. Motorcycle users are vulnerable road users and providing training to the community is essential to saving lives. As a benefit, students that pass Entry- or Intermediate-level training will be eligible to receive a course completion card that waives the motorcycle licensing test requirement when presented at the Illinois Secretary of State.

Motorcycle training is a vital component in IDOT’s Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP) ; it focuses on the reduction of motorcyclists’ vulnerabilities while riding. Course content includes how to choose proper safety gear and improve riding techniques. These strategies can help reduce motorcyclist fatalities on Illinois roadways.

The goal of this program is to provide motorcycle training to current and potential motorcycle riders of all skill and experience levels. Courses are available to Illinois residents 16 or older who hold a valid automobile or motorcycle driver’s license. Residents younger than 18 must have written consent from a legal guardian. Program courses shall address safe motorcycling principles, enhancing the knowledge and skills of riders from novice to advanced.

Opportunity Funding

• $6,000,000.00

Nebraska Blue Foundation

For more than 85 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) has been a champion for the health and well-being of our members and the communities we serve. Founded in 2024, the Nebraska Blue Foundation now allows us to concentrate our efforts into pockets of our community that need to be uplifted the most.

The foundation has four priority areas:

• Serving Seniors – Addressing the needs of Nebraska’s aging population
• Increasing Access to Preventive Healthcare – Proactive measures to prevent illness, detect health issues early and reduce the risk of chronic disease
• Economic Vitality – Investing in job creation and civic programs to promote a vibrant economy
• Third Places – Building and strengthening the social fabric of communities across the state

The Nebraska Blue Foundation is particularly interested in supporting innovation and pilot projects. As a new foundation, our approach is to be catalytic with our grants – primarily investing in new ideas or programs that could meet a specific need with a one-time investment.

Serving Seniors

The spring cycle focuses on Serving Seniors and Preventive Healthcare. 

This funding addresses the needs of Nebraska’s aging population.

The Edinburgh Botanic Garden (Sibbald) Trust Fellowships support taxonomic research and related activities that benefit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. The Trust prioritizes smaller projects in spring and fellowships in autumn. Funding is available for various research and illustration projects, as well as for botanists seeking to utilize the Garden's extensive resources. Applications must include a report from any previous projects completed within the last year to be considered.

The Molina Fellowship in the History of Medicine and Allied Sciences, offered by The Huntington Library, is designed for scholars pursuing advanced research in history, literature, art, and the history of science. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. or have successfully defended their dissertation by the application deadline. The fellowship supports innovative studies that explore the impact of medicine on society and culture, leveraging The Huntington's extensive collections related to the American West.

The Hope For Memphis Fund Grant aims to empower Christian ministries and leaders in the Memphis area to foster community transformation. By supporting holistic, Gospel-centered initiatives, this fund seeks to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of local nonprofits. Eligible organizations must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) entities that serve underserved populations within the Memphis Metro Area. This grant reflects the commitment of the Christian Community Foundation to uplift and support impactful community work.

The Erin Jergentz Junior Golf Memorial Fund Grant Program provides financial assistance to high school students in Butte and Plumas counties who face barriers to participating in golf. This funding supports the purchase of equipment, gear, lessons, and team events, ensuring that all interested students have the opportunity to engage in the sport despite financial hardships. The program aims to promote inclusivity and support young athletes in their pursuit of golf.

The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History offers $3000 short-term research fellowships for doctoral candidates, faculty, and independent scholars in American history. Founded in 1994, this nonprofit enhances history education through diverse programs in all 50 states, providing access to over 60,000 historical documents. The fellowships support research at New York City archives, fostering scholarship and recognition by esteemed organizations, ultimately benefiting thousands of teachers and millions of 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.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Trembacki & Hultgren Families Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to students graduating from East Aurora or West Aurora High School who will be entering the field of teaching.

Raymond Trembacki (1925-2000) was a teacher in the West Aurora School System from 1952 to 1959.

He then moved to East Aurora High School to develop the photography curriculum. In 1983, he continued his teaching career at the College of DuPage.

Janice Trembacki (1927-1997) was an English teacher in the West Aurora School System. She taught at Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson Junior High Schools. She retired in 1990.

Mr. and Mrs. Trembacki were graduates of Illinois State University (BA) and Colorado State College (MA).

Dale and Rae Jean Hultgren also had long and distinguished careers as educators for the Aurora schools.

In 1953, Dale Hultgren joined his sister Janice Trembacki in the West Aurora School System. He taught at Freeman Elementary School and later he taught science at Thomas Jefferson Junior High School.

Mr. Hultgren is a graduate of Illinois State University (BS) and the University of Colorado (MS).

Rae Jean Hultgren (1935-2008) taught in the Business Education Department at West Aurora High School, where she later became the department chairperson.

She also taught at East Aurora High School in the Business Education Department until her retirement in 2000. Mrs. Hultgren is a graduate of the University of Iowa (BBA and MA).

The Seniors Community Revitalization & Development Fund, supported by the Deaconess Foundation, aims to enhance public health infrastructure for seniors aged 55 and older in the Greater St. Louis area. This initiative focuses on improving transportation, safety, and navigation support for seniors while promoting transparency and accountability. Organizations can apply for grants of up to $30,000 to address these priority areas, ensuring better access to essential services for the aging population.

Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge

Established in 1973, the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge (ACGBR) endeavors to promote cultural growth, economic development, and educational enhancement through the arts in and around the 10-parish region it serves. Those parishes include Ascension, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberville, Livingston, Pointe Coupée, St. Helena, Tangipahoa, West Feliciana, and West Baton Rouge.

Our Mission is to foster the creative capacity and vibrancy of the capital region through advocacy, resources, teaching & training.

Everett G. Powers Fund for Creativity

The Everett G. Powers Fund for Creativity is designed to inspire innovation through the creative process. One award is offered annually to an individual or organization in support of new projects that focus on creativity, innovation and excellence.

This award recognizes the difficulty of finding funds for innovative work — work that may, at times, not be popular work. Primary consideration is given to creativity, excellence, or innovative qualities. In no way will this award censor or limit artistic or innovative freedom.

The Joseph Breen Memorial Fellowship supports students to attend the Green Chemistry & Engineering Conference, facilitating their presentation of research. Funded by the Joseph Breen Memorial Fund, it covers up to $2,000 in travel expenses for undergraduate, graduate, or post-doctoral scholars. Two awards are typically granted, ensuring equitable distribution between undergraduates and graduates. Winners must meet the abstract deadline and submit a report summarizing their conference experience before reimbursement.

The Raymond C. and Martha S. Suckling Fund Grant, established by the late philanthropist Raymond Suckling, provides annual funding of $500,000 to support programs that uplift low-income residents in Sewickley and nearby areas. Through the Pittsburgh Foundation, grants typically range from $25,000 to $75,000, with the potential for multi-year funding up to $150,000. This initiative seeks to empower communities, especially those facing economic hardships, ensuring that help reaches those in need.

The Apple Grant Program, offered by the Troy Foundation, provides up to $1,000 to teachers in the Troy City School District and associated schools. It aims to enhance educational experiences through projects, equipment, or field trips. Eligible applicants must demonstrate the number of Troy resident students and have their applications signed by the Superintendent and Building Principal. This initiative supports educators in creating impactful learning opportunities for their students.

The British Society of Soil Science offers the Teaching Soil Science Grant to support innovative teaching practices in soil science. This grant facilitates the development of interactive educational resources and the purchase of field equipment, enhancing learning experiences. Open to individuals and organizations, the grant encourages creative projects that promote soil science education. Applications are reviewed quarterly, and early submission is advised to secure funding, as resources are limited. Collaboration between educational institutions is also encouraged.

The Forrest Shreve Student Research Fund, awarded by the Ecological Society of America, supports research in North America's hot deserts, including the Sonoran and Mojave. This fund aims to enhance our understanding of desert ecology through innovative projects. Eligible applicants include graduate and undergraduate students who are ESA members. Proposals are evaluated based on their significance, feasibility, and design, with awards ranging from $1,000 to $2,000, granted annually.

The Glenn Foundation for Medical Research Postdoctoral Fellowships in Aging Research Grant aims to support postdoctoral fellows in their research on the biology of aging. In partnership with the American Federation for Aging Research, this program offers up to 10 grants of $75,000 each for one year, emphasizing the need for research that translates basic aging biology into clinical applications. Applicants must be postdoctoral fellows in qualified non-profit settings in the U.S. and meet specific eligibility criteria.

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.

Carolina Trust Federal Credit Union Legacy Scholarship

Carolina Trust actively demonstrates the credit union philosophy People Helping People in the communities we serve. We are honored to partner with several organizations to provide deserving students with financial assistance to achieve their higher education goals.

Scholarship Amount:

• $5,000.00

The Equal Justice Wyoming Foundation Grant Program seeks proposals for the FY 2025-2026 grant cycle to provide civil legal services to low-income individuals in Wyoming. This joint initiative by Equal Justice Wyoming and the Equal Justice Wyoming Foundation aims to enhance access to justice. Non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit comprehensive applications, detailing the total funding requested from both foundations. Funding decisions will be made by the Board of Directors based on the alignment of missions.

The Regional Site Readiness Program-Capital Ready, initiated by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, aims to enhance infrastructure across the state, preparing sites for industrial and manufacturing development. With a total funding of $40 million, awards will range from $250,000 to $3 million, supporting communities to overcome financial barriers and increasing the number of sites ready for future industrial development in all ten Economic Development Regions of Illinois.

The Glenn Foundation for Medical Research Discovery Award, in partnership with the American Federation for Aging Research, aims to fund innovative research that explores the biological mechanisms of normal aging. This award supports projects with a strong potential for groundbreaking discoveries, particularly from researchers new to the aging field. Up to two awards of $525,000 over three years will be granted, promoting scientific collaboration at designated conferences.

The YAC Grants, offered by the Fremont Area Community Foundation, support initiatives that enhance the quality of life for youth in Newaygo County. Grants, up to $12,500, prioritize programs addressing challenges such as substance abuse, teen pregnancy, and social opportunities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, government units, and educational institutions that serve the youth of this area. This funding aims to empower young individuals through education and recreational activities.