Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Randy Boileau Storyteller Scholarship

• Graduating senior who resides within the primary service area of the Community Foundation or in Hamilton
• Enrolling at Aquinas College, Calvin University, Ferris State University, Hope College, or Grand Valley State University
• GPA of 3.5 or greater
• Majoring in marketing, advertising, public relations, journalism, video production, graphic design, or a related subject
• 1,200-character or less answer to this question: How might you use narrative to create understanding and build community in your future career?

The Daniel Cardillo Charitable Fund, established in 1999 by the Maine Community Foundation, honors the spirit and passion of Dan Cardillo, a compassionate young man. This fund provides scholarships to Maine youth pursuing artistic, academic, athletic, and vocational passions outside traditional education. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, commitment to their goals, and compassion for others. The Maine Community Foundation has been a pillar of support since 1983, awarding over $3 million annually to foster education and community engagement.

The Joplin Regional Community Foundation Affiliate Grantmaking Program aims to enhance the quality of life in Joplin, Carl Junction, and Webb City by providing grants to 501(c)(3) organizations and IRS approved entities. Since its inception, the Foundation has distributed over $61 million, supporting various community initiatives and fostering collaboration. This program is dedicated to empowering local organizations to drive positive change and address community needs effectively.

The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven offers the Consultant Support Grant Program to enhance organizational capacity in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging. Nonprofits in the Foundation's twenty-town service area can receive up to $2,000 for consultancy services. This short-term support fosters collaboration and equity within organizations, allowing for workshops and training. Eligible organizations can only apply once in a 12-month period, ensuring broad access to resources for community enhancement.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Samuel Meengs Scholarship

• Graduating senior from one of the following high schools: Black River, Calvary Schools of Holland, Holland Christian, Holland High School, West Ottawa, Zeeland East, or Zeeland West
• Enrolling at Hope College
• Financial need, a consideration (encouraged to submit the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)
• GPA of 4.0 or greater
• Involvement in high school sports, music, or the arts preferred
• This scholarship is potentially renewable and supports one student at a time.

Accessibility Microgrants

Purpose

To make the arts accessible to all Virginians by supporting improvements in an organization’s space, facilities, or programming.

Description

The Accessibility Microgrant provides funding up to $2,000, with a 10% (1:10) cash match requirement, for projects that meet a specific accessibility need in an organization’s arts offerings. In-kind or federal matches will not be accepted. Funds will be distributed on a rolling basis in two cycles throughout the fiscal year; once funds are depleted for a given cycle, no more projects will be approved.

This grant supports a wide variety of projects, including minor, non-transformational facilities improvements. While it does not fund construction or installation, it may fund supplies, like signage, that would later be installed

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Shelley Speet-Mills Creative Arts Scholarship

• Graduating senior or graduating early college student who attends public, private, or home school in the primary service area of the Community Foundation
• Enrolling at an accredited post-secondary school within the United States
• Financial need (must submit the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)
• GPA of 3.0 or greater
• Planning to pursue a career in the arts
• Recommended by applicant’s high school art teacher
• This scholarship is potentially renewable and supports one student at a time. 

The Connecticut Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program provides vital technical and financial support to local communities facing urgent threats from natural disasters such as floods and fires. This program, managed by the USDA's Natural Resource Conservation Service, enables swift action without the need for a formal disaster declaration. Eligible sponsors can initiate projects focused on restoring watershed health, ensuring safety, and enhancing community resilience against future environmental hazards.

The McMillen Family Foundation Grant aims to support non-profit organizations in Southern California focused on treatment, prevention, and education regarding alcohol and drug dependency. Prioritizing nonprofits with proven track records, the Foundation provides funding for activities beyond government support, with grants up to $50,000 for new applicants. The Foundation also offers technical assistance and collaboration opportunities to enhance the impact of its grantees in the community.

The Maine Artist Fellowship in Performing Arts celebrates artistic excellence among Maine artists. It offers merit-based awards to individuals or collectives, focusing on creativity and vision. The fellowship provides unrestricted financial support, promotional opportunities, and networking events to advance the artist's career. Eligible artists include those in theatre, dance, music, and other live performance genres. One artist per discipline will be selected, fostering a diverse cohort of seven Maine Artist Fellows.

The Maine Artist Fellowship in Literary Arts recognizes the exceptional talent of Maine artists across various writing genres, including fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. This merit-based fellowship offers unrestricted funding to help artists advance their careers. Selected fellows gain visibility through Maine Arts Commission publications and year-long promotional support, culminating in a Fellowship Reception. Eligibility includes being a Maine resident, at least 25 years old, and not currently enrolled in school. This opportunity fosters community and collaboration among artists.

The Maine Artist Fellowship in Visual Arts honors exceptional talent among Maine artists, providing unrestricted awards to advance their careers. Selected artists will receive year-long promotion, inclusion in digital publications, and opportunities for networking and collaboration. This merit-based fellowship is open to individual artists or collectives, with specific eligibility criteria, including residency requirements and age restrictions. The fellowship culminates in a reception with Maine Arts Staff, fostering community and artistic growth.

The Maine Artist Fellowship for Traditional Arts honors exceptional Maine artists committed to preserving traditional art forms. This merit-based award supports artists by providing unrestricted funds, promotional opportunities, and networking events throughout the year. Selected fellows will showcase their work on the Maine Arts Commission website and participate in a reception with staff and commissioners. This fellowship aims to recognize and sustain vital cultural practices among Maine's artistic communities.

The Women’s and Girls’ Fund Grant, supported by Kern Community Foundation, aims to empower women and girls in Kern County through educational initiatives. With at least $80,000 allocated for 2024, the fund prioritizes requests that enhance educational attainment and address critical needs. The focus for 2021-2025 is Education, promoting awareness and advocacy among women to foster positive social change. This grant encourages long-term solutions to societal challenges faced by women and girls in the community.

The Maine Artist Fellowship in Media Arts recognizes outstanding artistic achievement among Maine artists. This merit-based award supports individual artists and collectives in disciplines such as film, video, animation, and podcasts. Recipients receive unrestricted funding to advance their careers and benefit from year-long promotion, networking opportunities, and a reception at the Blaine House. Eligible applicants must be Maine residents, at least 25 years old, and not currently enrolled in school, ensuring a focus on professional artists.

The Executive Fellowship Program at California State University, Sacramento prepares future public leaders through immersive placements in state agencies. Participants engage in hands-on policy development, mentorship from senior leaders, and graduate-level seminars. This program emphasizes skill-building and professional growth, addressing California's governance challenges. It is designed for individuals eager to impact public service and enhance their leadership capabilities, making it a vital opportunity for aspiring leaders committed to public policy and community engagement.

The Wichita Wagonmasters Fund, established in 2012, enhances the quality of life in Wichita by supporting various projects through grants ranging from $250 to $1,000. This fund prioritizes initiatives that serve the community, avoid service duplication, and demonstrate measurable results. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits in good standing, showcasing fiscal responsibility and sustainability. The fund encourages creative solutions to community challenges, promoting collaboration among local organizations for a better Wichita.

The Idaho Commission for Libraries offers Continuing Education Grants aimed at enhancing the skills of library staff in Idaho. These grants, funded by the Library Services and Technology Act, support various educational activities including First-time Conference Attendance, Library Science Courses, Leadership Development, and Group Training. Eligible applicants are encouraged to submit their applications at least 30 days before their event. This initiative helps libraries better serve their communities.

The Idaho Commission for Libraries offers the E-Rate & Broadband Grant Program, which helps public libraries cover internet service costs. Libraries can receive significant discounts on eligible services through the E-rate program, with state reimbursements available for the remaining costs. Timely submission of invoices is crucial for eligibility. This funding opportunity is vital for enhancing digital access in Idaho's libraries, ensuring they can provide essential online resources to their communities.

The Paul G. Silver Young Scholar Research Enhancement Award honors the legacy of Paul G. Silver by providing funding between $2000-$5000 to young scholars, including undergraduates and graduate students, pursuing innovative geophysical research at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. This award aims to support projects that extend beyond typical research boundaries, fostering creativity and mentorship in the field. Eligible candidates must demonstrate how this funding will facilitate new research opportunities and collaborations.

The AAF Capital Grants program supports Colorado animal welfare organizations seeking over $100,000 for long-term projects that enhance the lives of shelter animals and provide community services. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) entities with a history of funding from the Animal Assistance Foundation, demonstrating community commitment and collaboration. Grants are limited to organizations improving the quality of life for animals, ensuring sustainability and long-term impact within their communities.

The Empowering YOU Scholarship, launched by the Tulsa Community Foundation in 1998, supports adults pursuing higher education at accredited institutions in the Tulsa area. This program focuses on individuals who have faced significant challenges but are committed to improving their lives through education. By providing financial assistance, the scholarship aims to empower these students to thrive and contribute positively to their communities.

The Robert H. N. Ho Family Foundation Buddhism Public Scholars Fellowships offer recent PhD graduates in Buddhist Studies the opportunity to work at host institutions such as museums and libraries. Scholars will engage in meaningful roles, receiving competitive compensation and health benefits. Starting in September 2026, this initiative aims to foster partnerships that enhance the understanding and dissemination of Buddhist traditions, benefiting both scholars and cultural organizations globally.

The District of Columbia Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is inviting applications for projects aimed at restoring publicly-owned parks and natural areas. With a funding pool of $184,000, the initiative seeks to engage eligible entities in removing trash and invasive species while enhancing community involvement in preserving these green spaces. Awards will range from $50,000 to a maximum of three grants, promoting sustainable practices within local urban environments.

The Gerber Foundation provides research grants focused on pediatric nutrition, aiming to enhance the health and well-being of infants and young children. Key areas of interest include applied research on nutritional issues, benefits of specific nutrients, and innovative treatment regimens. The foundation prioritizes projects that promise significant advancements in health outcomes for children from birth to age three, ensuring that grant dollars effectively address critical development challenges.

The Bristol Bay Foundation offers a Higher Education Scholarship Program supporting both full-time and part-time students pursuing 4-year or advanced degrees. Eligible applicants must be shareholders of the BBNC or their descendants, have a high school diploma or GED, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Scholarships are based on academic performance and life experiences, with applications due in April for the next academic year.