Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

Arizona Community Foundation

For more than four decades, the Arizona Community Foundation has worked in tandem with generous individuals, families, and organizations to address some of the biggest challenges facing our state.

Scholarships

In partnership with our generous donors, we award millions of dollars annually to help students achieve their educational goals. Through our online system, students complete one application and are matched with available scholarships, based on their eligibility requirements.

The Morfessis Family Scholarship

Education has been a core value of the Morfessis family, and college attainment a passion and goal for all of its members. To assist others who are driven toward similar goals, the Morfessis Family, in conjunction with the Helios Education Foundation, has established a scholarship fund. This fund was established to support Arizona women pursuing a bachelor’s degree in select in-demand career fields at one of Arizona’s three public universities or at one of the state’s community colleges that offer bachelor’s degrees.

This scholarship is renewable.

Arizona Community Foundation

For more than four decades, the Arizona Community Foundation has worked in tandem with generous individuals, families, and organizations to address some of the biggest challenges facing our state.

Scholarships

In partnership with our generous donors, we award millions of dollars annually to help students achieve their educational goals. Through our online system, students complete one application and are matched with available scholarships, based on their eligibility requirements.

The Thunderbirds Scholarship

The Thunderbirds scholarship provides a four-year, full ride opportunity for two Arizona high school graduates (or equivalent) attending either Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, or University of Arizona as an incoming freshman. Applicants must demonstrate academic achievement, and/or overcoming significant odds, as well as demonstrating service and leadership during their high school career. Students are required to live on-campus for at least the first year and will be mentored by Education Forward Arizona. This scholarship will be renewed each year if required criteria is maintained. 

PLTW Launch, in collaboration with Emerson NI, aims to enhance STEM education by providing crucial grant support for elementary schools. This initiative will allow schools to implement PLTW Launch programs in the 2025-2026 academic year. With a total grant of $10,000, this partnership seeks to inspire students through hands-on learning experiences, fostering a design-thinking mindset and preparing them for future challenges in engineering and technology.

The PLTW Launch Program, in partnership with Emerson NI, aims to expand STEM education by providing grant support to elementary schools in Texas. With a total award of $5,000, the initiative focuses on enhancing hands-on learning through innovative modules. Schools can utilize the funds for program expansion activities, teacher training, and necessary equipment. This partnership seeks to foster creative problem-solving and a design-thinking mindset among students, preparing them for future challenges in engineering and technology.

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 Arts Access Assistance program, run by the Kentucky Arts Council, provides funding between $2,500 and $5,000 to 501(c)(3) nonprofits for innovative arts programming aimed at underserved communities. This initiative fosters creativity and well-being by utilizing arts-based strategies that evolve with each grant cycle. The program seeks to enhance cultural engagement, promote lifelong learning, and increase participation in the arts across the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

The Bernard B. Brodie Award in Drug Metabolism and Disposition honors significant contributions in drug metabolism, recognizing outstanding research that impacts future studies. Presented biennially, it includes a $2,000 honorarium, a medal, and an invitation to present at the Annual Meeting. Candidates from all sectors are eligible, and nominations may highlight lifetime achievements or promising mid-career scientists. The award aims to celebrate innovation in this critical field.

The PLTW Gateway Program Expansion, in collaboration with Emerson NI, aims to enhance STEM education by providing middle schools in select Texas counties with grants to expand their PLTW Gateway programs. This initiative focuses on hands-on learning experiences that empower students to explore their passions through engineering, computer science, and biomedical science. With a total grant award of $10,000 available for the 2026-2027 academic year, this partnership seeks to inspire the next generation of innovators.

The PLTW Gateway program in partnership with Emerson NI aims to enhance STEM education for middle school students. By providing hands-on learning experiences, this initiative empowers students to discover their passions and explore future career paths in engineering and technology. With a grant of $10,000 available for the 2026-2027 academic year, eligible public and charter schools in select Texas counties can implement PLTW Gateway units, fostering an inclusive environment that promotes diversity in STEM fields.

The PLTW Computer Science Program Expansion, in partnership with Emerson NI, aims to enhance STEM education by providing grant support to public and charter schools in Texas. With a total award of $10,000 for the 2026-2027 academic year, this initiative encourages schools to expand their existing PLTW Computer Science programs through new courses and teacher training, fostering innovative learning experiences that prepare students for future challenges.

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 Snoqualmie Tribal Organization Grant supports veterans services with funding up to $50,000 for nonprofits in Washington State. Since 2010, the Tribe has donated over $8 million to various organizations. Eligible applicants must be IRS-registered 501c3 nonprofits providing services to veterans and their families. This initiative exemplifies the Tribe's commitment to community support and enhancing the lives of those who have served in the armed forces.

The Tuscola County Community Foundation Scholarship provides financial assistance to students pursuing post-secondary education. Scholarships are awarded based on donor-specific criteria, including financial need, academic performance, and personal goals. Applications can be obtained from the guidance offices of high schools in the Tuscola Intermediate School District. Additionally, completing the FAFSA is essential for all applicants, whether they are recent graduates or current college students, to qualify for federal financial aid.

The Snoqualmie Tribal Organization Grant supports senior and elder services, aiming to enhance independence and quality of life for elderly individuals. Since 2010, the Snoqualmie Tribe has contributed over $8 million to various nonprofits in Washington State. Eligible organizations must be IRS-registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in Washington, fostering community initiatives that benefit seniors.

The SCF The Women's Fund Grant, established in 2006 by visionary women, aims to enhance the lives of women and children in Stark County. Through vital funding, it supports programs focused on economic stability, emotional health, and community engagement. The fund seeks to empower women as leaders in philanthropy while addressing the needs of underserved populations. Its strategic goals include building a sustainable endowment and promoting philanthropy across diverse backgrounds, ensuring lasting impact for future generations.

The Snoqualmie Tribal Organization Grant for Environmental Education offers up to $50,000 to 501c3 nonprofit organizations in Washington State. Since 2010, the Snoqualmie Tribe has donated over $8 million to various nonprofits. This grant aims to enhance public awareness and knowledge about critical environmental issues, including climate change, by supporting initiatives that educate the community.

The Camargo X EHESS program fosters collaboration between scholars and artists, encouraging interdisciplinary projects that bridge social sciences and various art forms. This initiative aims to create enriching dialogues that enhance both research and artistic creation. Eligible candidates include EHESS PhD students and researchers, alongside international artists developing new works. The program highlights the value of cross-fertilization between disciplines, contributing to a greater understanding of the interplay between art and social inquiry.

The Ariane Condellis Fellowship at the Gennadius Library supports Turkish nationals researching intercommunal relationships and social history during the Byzantine or Ottoman periods. The fellowship offers a stipend of $11,500, room and board, and requires full-time engagement in research from September 2026 to May 2027. The Gennadius Library, with over 150,000 titles, serves as a comprehensive resource for the study of Greek culture and history, enhancing academic exploration in these fields.

The Penn Treaty Special Services District (PTSSD) offers sponsorships aimed at empowering community organizations to develop projects that benefit local residents. Applications for event sponsorships must be submitted at least 30 days in advance, with a recommendation to submit 60 days prior for timely consideration. The Board meets monthly from September to June, accommodating up to five requests per meeting. Late applications may be accepted with a valid explanation, ensuring continued support for community initiatives.

Rotary Club of San Jose

The Rotary Club of San Jose is the largest, most active and well-known service organization in the community. We are a leadership organization working together to make a difference. Our members include local business, nonprofit, professional and civic leaders. We form lasting friendships through our shared Rotary experiences including weekly meetings with interesting speakers, committee meetings and projects, social events and group service projects within our community and internationally.

Community Grants

• The primary purpose of the Rotary Club of San Jose Foundation Community Grants is to assist nonprofit organizations serving the citizens of San Jose with grants up to $15,000 for specific, tangible and identifiable capital purchases. Recent examples include grants to purchase a commercial oven, refrigerator, computers (including peripherals), streaming equipment, and cameras.

• Grants up to $15,000 may also be made for small facility improvement projects of under $30,000 total. Recent examples include linoleum flooring, electrical upgrades, carpet and fences. The intent is to provide a grant that will serve the grantee for many years.

Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines

The Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines improves quality of life for all by promoting charitable giving, connecting donors with causes they care about and providing leadership on important community issues…we’re simply better together. 

Decatur County Community Foundation

Mission of the Decatur County Community Foundation:

We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern: Improving the quality of life in Decatur County. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our region meet the challenges of changing times. The foundation invests and administers these funds that help our region meet the challenges of changing times.

The Decatur County Community Foundation is committed to improving the quality of life throughout Decatur County by investing in area nonprofits through our grant programs and by providing individuals, families and area businesses who love our communities with a way to give back.

The Decatur County Community Foundation Grants

Grants are available to 501(c)3 organizations and government entities serving Decatur County. Grant selections are made in an effort to create a better quality of life for people in Decatur County. The local governing committee reviews the applications from charitable organizations serving their community. 

The Willson Center Public Impact Grant, offered by the University of Georgia, supports faculty-led initiatives that organize conferences, exhibitions, and performances showcasing humanities and arts research. With a funding limit of $7,500, this grant encourages collaboration between faculty and graduate students, facilitating interdisciplinary projects. Award recipients must communicate program details to the Willson Center and provide proper credit in all related publicity. Applications are open for the upcoming academic year, with a focus on impactful engagements.

The William G. & Myrtle Hess Charitable Trust Grant supports Catholic charitable organizations in Oakland County, MI, with a focus on Waterford and White Lake Townships. This grant emphasizes education and scientific endeavors. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS tax code, while individuals are not permitted to apply. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare through financial assistance to deserving causes.

The Myrtle And William Hess Charitable Trust Grant provides funding to Catholic charitable organizations focused on education and scientific initiatives in Oakland County, MI, with a specific preference for those in Waterford and White Lake Townships. This grant is exclusively available to nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS tax code. Individuals are not eligible to apply for this grant.

The Nagel Foundation Grant supports non-profits in southwest Idaho by providing financial assistance to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations. The Foundation has a selective grant-making process, focusing on community enrichment through education and service. It does not fund political campaigns, projects outside southwest Idaho, or grants to individuals. This targeted approach ensures that funds are allocated effectively to benefit the local community.

South Dakota Community Foundation

As a statewide community foundation, we work with donors, nonprofits and community leaders to strengthen philanthropy in South Dakota every day.

Grants

The South Dakota Community Foundation offers an array of grants to help state nonprofits realize their dreams and continue investing in their communities. 

Selby Community Foundation Grant

Selby Community Foundation was established by a local advisory council in partnership with South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF). Their goal is to create a long-term funding source for charitable causes in the local area. With careful investment, the fund will continue to thrive and enhance quality of life in the local area creating a lasting legacy. This fund is one of 90 community savings accounts in partnership with SDCF.

About the Awards

The Benton Community Foundation’s Philanthropic Achievement Awards brings together nonprofit leaders, business leaders, and community members to recognize outstanding achievements in philanthropy in Benton County.

The event showcases the hard work of our talented, generous community, and celebrates the people and organizations that volunteer, donate, and inspire others to create a bright future for families and children.

Outstanding Rising Changemaker Award

The Benton Community Foundation Philanthropic Achievement Awards celebrate the power of generosity, honoring visionary leaders in philanthropy and volunteerism. The Rising Change Maker Award recognizes an individual or group under the age of 30 that has improved the community through dedicated action and exhibit extensive commitment to the missions they care about. This award is open to nominees who have contributed energy, expertise, or funds to projects throughout Benton County and surrounding areas.