Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds. 

Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

Franklin County Education Fund

Supporting students from Franklin County.

Additional Guidelines

• Students can receive up to $3,000 in scholarships from the Community Foundation.
• Scholarship awards could impact the financial aid offered by a college, and students are advised to check with their college financial aid offices about this.
• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. Some part and/or all the award could be considered taxable income. It is advisable students check with the college or tax accountant regarding this matter.

The Michigan Competitive Scholarship supports undergraduate students pursuing their first degree, focusing on financial need and merit. To qualify, applicants must achieve a minimum SAT score of 1200 and file the FAFSA by July 1. Eligible institutions include public universities and non-profit colleges in Michigan. This scholarship aims to increase access to higher education for residents while ensuring students meet specific eligibility criteria, including citizenship and enrollment status.

The Joanna Cornerstone Ministries Scholarship Fund, established by Joanna Cornerstone Ministries, focuses on supporting high school seniors from Cherokee, Clay, or Graham counties in North Carolina. Eligible applicants must be legal residents planning to attend an accredited college or vocational school full-time. Preference is given to students demonstrating financial need. This initiative is part of the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina's broader commitment to fostering educational opportunities in the region.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts seeks to enrich the quality of life of the people of our region by:

• Encouraging philanthropy
• Developing a perpetual, flexible endowment
• Assessing and responding to emerging and changing needs
• Serving as a resource, catalyst, and coordinator for charitable activities
• Promoting efficiency in the management of charitable funds

The Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds.

• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. 
• Most scholarships are for students who live in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties. However, some are also available to students who live in Berkshire County and Hartford County in Connecticut.
• We offer scholarships to those who attend on either a full-time or part-time basis. 
• Any student who plans to enroll for the upcoming fall semester, in any year of college as an undergraduate or graduate student and who will attend an accredited post-secondary school in the United States may apply.
• Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

United Personnel Future Scholars Fund

To support scholarships for residents from Holyoke, Chicopee, Springfield, Westfield, or Pittsfield; preference for first generation college students

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds. 

Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

Elaine Nicpon Marieb Scholarship Fund

To support women residents of Franklin, Hampden or Hampshire counties attending college.

Additional Guidelines

• Students can receive up to $3,000 in scholarships from the Community Foundation.
• Scholarship awards could impact the financial aid offered by a college, and students are advised to check with their college financial aid offices about this.
• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. Some part and/or all the award could be considered taxable income. It is advisable students check with the college or tax accountant regarding this matter.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts seeks to enrich the quality of life of the people of our region by:

• Encouraging philanthropy
• Developing a perpetual, flexible endowment
• Assessing and responding to emerging and changing needs
• Serving as a resource, catalyst, and coordinator for charitable activities
• Promoting efficiency in the management of charitable funds

The Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds.

• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. 
• Most scholarships are for students who live in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties. However, some are also available to students who live in Berkshire County and Hartford County in Connecticut.
• We offer scholarships to those who attend on either a full-time or part-time basis. 
• Any student who plans to enroll for the upcoming fall semester, in any year of college as an undergraduate or graduate student and who will attend an accredited post-secondary school in the United States may apply.
• Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

United Way of Holyoke, South Hadley, and Granby, Inc./YWCA Scholarship Fund for Women

To support women, age 18 or older, from Granby, Holyoke and South Hadley.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts seeks to enrich the quality of life of the people of our region by:

• Encouraging philanthropy
• Developing a perpetual, flexible endowment
• Assessing and responding to emerging and changing needs
• Serving as a resource, catalyst, and coordinator for charitable activities
• Promoting efficiency in the management of charitable funds

The Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds.

• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. 
• Most scholarships are for students who live in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties. However, some are also available to students who live in Berkshire County and Hartford County in Connecticut.
• We offer scholarships to those who attend on either a full-time or part-time basis. 
• Any student who plans to enroll for the upcoming fall semester, in any year of college as an undergraduate or graduate student and who will attend an accredited post-secondary school in the United States may apply.
• Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

Urban League of Springfield Scholarship Fund

To support African American residents of Springfield.

The Elissa M. Garofalo Community Impact Award Fund, established by friends and family, honors Elissa's legacy by recognizing individuals demonstrating leadership and community impact in Carbon County. Each year, the recipient receives at least $500 for professional development or can designate a local charity to receive the funds. This award seeks to empower those in the prime of their careers, not lifetime achievers, fostering ongoing community contributions and mentorship.

Jacob L. and Ella C. Loose Foundation Grant 

The Jacob L. and Ella C. Loose Foundation supports organizations working to strengthen the lives of children and families across Kansas City and Jackson County, Missouri.

Grant Focus:

In 2026, the Loose Foundation’s Board will be considering local nonprofits for the Empower Together event. This special gathering creates space for connection—bringing the Loose Foundation together with organizations to learn more about their work and to celebrate a shared commitment to helping children and families thrive in Kansas City.

Eligibility Requirements: Eligible applicants include organizations that focus on serving children and families within Kansas City, Missouri and/or Jackson County, Missouri.

Kids' Chance of Pennsylvania Scholarship

The mission of Kids’ Chance of Pennsylvania, Inc. (Kids’ Chance of PA) is to provide scholarship grants for college and vocational education to children of Pennsylvania workers who have been killed or seriously injured in a work-related accident resulting in financial need.

The hardships created by the death or serious disability of a parent often include financial ones, making it difficult for deserving young people to pursue their educational dreams. That's where we come in - helping those dreams become a reality!

We are dedicated to supporting the higher education of the children of seriously injured or killed Pennsylvania workers. Since our inception in 1997, we have provided over 1,150 scholarships totaling more than $3.2 million to deserving students! If you are one of these children, we encourage you to take the time to fill out this application. Additionally, if you receive a KCPA scholarship, you may be eligible to receive supplemental grant money through an agreement with the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency/Pathways to Higher Education (PHEAA/PATH) Program

Scholarships are awarded on an annual basis and must be reapplied for each year. 

The Penny Allison Early Childhood Fund, managed by the Carbon County Community Foundation, supports early childhood education initiatives in Carbon County, Pennsylvania. Grants ranging from $250 to $500 are available for school programs and nonprofits focused on nurturing young learners and promoting school readiness. Through this fund, the Foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and enrich the lives of children and families in the community.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts seeks to enrich the quality of life of the people of our region by:

• Encouraging philanthropy
• Developing a perpetual, flexible endowment
• Assessing and responding to emerging and changing needs
• Serving as a resource, catalyst, and coordinator for charitable activities
• Promoting efficiency in the management of charitable funds

The Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds.

• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. 
• Most scholarships are for students who live in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties. However, some are also available to students who live in Berkshire County and Hartford County in Connecticut.
• We offer scholarships to those who attend on either a full-time or part-time basis. 
• Any student who plans to enroll for the upcoming fall semester, in any year of college as an undergraduate or graduate student and who will attend an accredited post-secondary school in the United States may apply.
• Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

Virginillo-Falvo Scholarship Fund

To support low-income youth of western Massachusetts to attend college.

The OAC Essential Arts Education Grants for Schools supports Oklahoma schools in enhancing arts education programs during the school day. Schools can apply for up to $5,000 per year, fostering significant improvements in academic performance and student engagement. Arts education develops essential skills, promotes creativity, and encourages civic responsibility. With a focus on hands-on learning led by qualified educators, these grants aim to expand access to various art forms, benefiting both students and the broader community.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts seeks to enrich the quality of life of the people of our region by:

• Encouraging philanthropy
• Developing a perpetual, flexible endowment
• Assessing and responding to emerging and changing needs
• Serving as a resource, catalyst, and coordinator for charitable activities
• Promoting efficiency in the management of charitable funds

The Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds.

• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. 
• Most scholarships are for students who live in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties. However, some are also available to students who live in Berkshire County and Hartford County in Connecticut.
• We offer scholarships to those who attend on either a full-time or part-time basis. 
• Any student who plans to enroll for the upcoming fall semester, in any year of college as an undergraduate or graduate student and who will attend an accredited post-secondary school in the United States may apply.
• Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

Wilbur H.H. Ward Education Fund

To support individuals from Hampshire County attending University of Massachusetts Amherst with preference given to residents of the Town of Amherst.

The OAC Community Arts Experience Grants, offered by the Oklahoma Arts Council, support community vitality through funding for arts-based projects such as festivals and exhibitions. These grants aim to enhance cultural opportunities for Oklahomans and require a 100% match. Organizations may apply for two grants annually, with a maximum award of $5,000. This program fosters engagement and preserves cultural heritage, replacing the previous Small Grant Support program as of September 1, 2023.

The OAC Capitol Art Field Trip Grants provide an exceptional opportunity for Oklahoma school children, particularly those from rural and under-resourced communities, to experience the state's rich history and art at the Oklahoma State Capitol. Schools can receive reimbursement for transportation and associated costs, allowing students to engage in guided tours and learn about Oklahoma's art collections and government. Grants are available for up to $1,100 per field trip, fostering a unique educational experience.

John & Nancy Dennis Scholarship Fund

When the Rev. John Dennis had served in his ministry at the First Presbyterian Church of Corvallis for thirty years, friends and members of the congregation and the community wanted to honor his and his wife’s lifelong dedication of service to others. With these contributions, and those of the Dennis family, the John and Nancy Dennis Scholarship Fund was established.

Tuition for a Benton County high school student to study any field at Oregon State University.

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds. 

Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

Clarence H. Matteson Scholarship Fund, Bank of America, Trustee

To support residents of Greenfield.

Additional Guidelines

• Students can receive up to $3,000 in scholarships from the Community Foundation.
• Scholarship awards could impact the financial aid offered by a college, and students are advised to check with their college financial aid offices about this.
• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. Some part and/or all the award could be considered taxable income. It is advisable students check with the college or tax accountant regarding this matter.

The OVAC Creative Projects Grant, offered by the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition, supports Oklahoma artists aged 21 and above in creating visual art for public presentation. Grants of up to $1500 are awarded for new projects culminating in public events. Eligible applicants must not be current BFA or MFA students and should not have received OVAC funding in the past year. The evaluation focuses on the potential impact, quality, concept, and feasibility of the proposed work.

The Chattooga Club Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, aims to support current Club employees in pursuing higher education amidst rising costs. Eligible applicants must be employed at the Club and either be high school seniors or graduates. This initiative enhances educational opportunities for dedicated employees, contributing to their academic and professional growth.

The Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program aims to elevate educational attainment in Indiana by providing full-tuition scholarships to eligible high school graduates from each county served by community foundations. Launched in 1998, this initiative encourages engagement among scholars and local leaders to enhance community quality of life. By partnering with Independent Colleges of Indiana, the program aspires to support talented students in pursuing degrees at accredited institutions, fostering both personal and economic growth within the state.

The Crisis Assistance Program Grants, administered by The Youngstown Foundation, offer crucial funding support to 501(c)(3) organizations in Youngstown, facilitating swift responses to emergency needs. Established in 1918, the foundation aims to enhance community life through financial assistance for charitable, scientific, and educational initiatives. Grants are capped at $5,000, with a focus on ensuring continuity of vital services. Applications are processed within 48 hours, with funding provided within four business days.

The Fostering Futures Scholarship, administered by the Michigan Education Trust, offers financial assistance to former foster youth in Michigan who have experienced foster care after age 13. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial need, possess a high school diploma, and enroll at least half-time in a participating institution. This program aims to support the educational pursuits of students who have faced significant challenges, ensuring they have access to higher education opportunities.

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds. 

Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

Frank W. Jendrysik, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund

To support residents of Chicopee, Holyoke and Springfield.

Additional Guidelines

• Students can receive up to $3,000 in scholarships from the Community Foundation.
• Scholarship awards could impact the financial aid offered by a college, and students are advised to check with their college financial aid offices about this.
• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. Some part and/or all the award could be considered taxable income. It is advisable students check with the college or tax accountant regarding this matter.

The Gene and Lee Meyer Scholarship, founded in 1993, aims to support deserving students from Graham, Jackson, Macon, Swain counties, and the Qualla Boundary in their pursuit of higher education. This scholarship provides essential financial assistance to well-rounded students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership potential. It prioritizes those in need and those transitioning out of foster care, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their educational aspirations.

Syringe Service Program Supply Hub NOFO

This funding will support a single grantee in operating and maintaining a Syringe Service Program (SSP) Supply Hub. The grantee will create a catalog of IDPH-approved supplies informed by a statewide needs assessment and the laws governing this work, set up a secure website for IDPH-authorized SSPs in Illinois to request SSP supplies, and establish distribution and monitoring infrastructure to deliver supplies to IDPH-authorized SSPs.

This project is funded by the Illinois General Revenue Funds.

The Syringe Service Program (SSP) Supply Hub is a two-year grant cycle, competitively awarded in year one (1) with the option of one (1) year of non-competitive renewal applications. Total base award is $1,500,000 for the chosen grantee, with the remainder of the total grant distributed to the chosen grantee upon the beginning of the second grant year. Program funds granted must be allocated based on the following areas:

• Contractual Services, Direct Administrative Costs, Consultant Services, Fringe, Grant Exclusive Line Items, Miscellaneous Costs, Occupancy/Rent & Utilities, Personal Services (Personnel), Subawards/Subgrants. Supplies, Telecommunication, Training and Education, Travel

Anticipated Number of Awards 

• 1

Estimated Total Program Funding 

• 1500000.00

Single Award Range 

• $0 - $1500000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts seeks to enrich the quality of life of the people of our region by:

• Encouraging philanthropy
• Developing a perpetual, flexible endowment
• Assessing and responding to emerging and changing needs
• Serving as a resource, catalyst, and coordinator for charitable activities
• Promoting efficiency in the management of charitable funds

The Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds.

• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. 
• Most scholarships are for students who live in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties. However, some are also available to students who live in Berkshire County and Hartford County in Connecticut.
• We offer scholarships to those who attend on either a full-time or part-time basis. 
• Any student who plans to enroll for the upcoming fall semester, in any year of college as an undergraduate or graduate student and who will attend an accredited post-secondary school in the United States may apply.
• Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

Arthur and Helen Watson Scholarship Fund

To support graduating seniors of a Springfield Public School, with a preference for students from Central High School, and with demonstrated participation in extracurricular activities