Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

The Welch Foundation Research Grant supports fundamental chemical research at Texas educational institutions. With a minimum funding of $117,000 per year for three years, it encourages innovative research proposals from full-time faculty members. Eligible applicants include universities and colleges listed by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. However, Welch endowed chair holders and projects with scientific overlap with current funding are ineligible. This grant fosters advancements in chemistry, enhancing the state's academic landscape.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

Polymer Physics Prize

To recognize outstanding accomplishment and excellence of contributions in polymer physics research. The prize consists of $10,000, up to $1,500 in travel reimbursement, and a certificate citing the contributions made by the recipient. It is presented annually.

Nominations will be considered for three review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.

The Madeleine B. Wildes Fund Grant offers financial assistance to residents of Salisbury facing hardships due to illness or misfortune. Established by Madeleine Wildes, the fund supports projects by nonprofit organizations that help the needy in Lakeville and Salisbury. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $3,000, with potential for higher amounts. This endowed fund aims to continue its support indefinitely, reflecting Miss Wildes' legacy of generosity and community care.

The Physicians Aid Association Grant provides essential financial support to physicians facing unforeseen hardships. Established in 1937, this initiative assists those in Los Angeles County with temporary needs such as rent, food, and utilities. It aims to alleviate the burden of unexpected challenges, ensuring that healthcare professionals receive the help they need during difficult times. The grant's focus is on compassionate aid and community support for physicians and their families.

The ASB Student Research Award, offered by the Association of Southeastern Biologists, recognizes outstanding research by student members. To qualify, applicants must be graduate or undergraduate students, present their research at the annual meeting, and be the primary author of a manuscript published after the last ASB meeting. This award fosters academic growth and provides valuable feedback opportunities, enhancing the STEM-Student Pipeline since 1937.

The ASB Research Award (Professional), offered by the Association of Southeastern Biologists, honors outstanding research by professional members (not students) with a $1000 grant. Applicants must be the primary author of a manuscript published after the last ASB annual meeting and must present their findings at the upcoming annual meeting. The awardee is recognized at the Closing Banquet, emphasizing the importance of attendance. This initiative promotes scientific advancement and networking among biology professionals.

The AWI Implementing Refinement Grant, offered by the Animal Welfare Institute, aims to enhance the welfare of animals in experimentation. Grants up to $8,000 support equipment purchases or staff training for implementing proven refinements. Eligible applicants must be from the U.S. or Canada, and projects should be completed within a year. The grant focuses on improving animal lives beyond basic needs, ensuring no funds are misused for indirect costs or basic care.

The Arts Fund for East Tennessee Grant Program, established in 1986, supports artistic excellence and cultural diversity in East Tennessee. In 2024, it aims to sustain cultural traditions and encourage diverse artistic expressions. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 will be awarded for two-year terms starting July 1, 2024. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and those with fiscal sponsors, focusing on outreach to underserved populations and grassroots art initiatives.

About the New York State Education Department

The New York State Education Department is part of the University of the State of New York (USNY), one of the most complete, interconnected systems of educational services in the United States.

Our mission is to raise the knowledge, skill, and opportunity of all the people in New York. Our vision is to provide leadership for a system that yields the best educated people in the world.

Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Competitive Grant Program

Purpose of Grant

To improve public libraries’ and library systems’ capacity to offer services and information resources in their communities in the areas of outreach and community engagement; best practices in literacy; and social wellbeing and improving the lives of New Yorkers. 

Project components may include outreach, programming, consultations from outside experts, and the purchase of supplies and technology which support a larger library initiative. 

All projects are encouraged to include an outreach or partnership component.

The Storefront, Security, and Lighting Improvement Grant assists Downtown Hillsboro commercial property owners in enhancing storefront designs and improving security through cameras and lighting. With a maximum grant of $40,000 and a required dollar-for-dollar match, the program aims to boost the aesthetic appeal of buildings, stimulate economic growth, attract investment, and foster community pride. This initiative focuses on visible improvements to increase overall attractiveness and safety in the downtown area.

The Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey offers special one-time grants aimed at improving healthcare for underserved populations in Greater Newark and the Jewish Community of MetroWest NJ. The foundation prioritizes innovative projects that demonstrate measurable impacts, partnerships, and sustainability. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations focused on health disparities. Proposals are evaluated based on mission alignment, systems impact, and the potential for lasting change in community health outcomes.

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 WRAGs Bursary, managed by the WFGA, offers a unique opportunity for young horticulturists aged 18-35 to receive part-time paid training while working under experienced gardeners. This program focuses on skill development through hands-on experience and access to workshops. Graduates often progress to lead their own gardening businesses or secure positions as head gardeners, making this bursary an excellent stepping stone into the horticultural industry.

The Edith J. Goode Residuary Trust Grant supports organizations focused on preventing cruelty to animals. Letters of inquiry are accepted from February 1 to May 1, leading to a formal application process for selected organizations. The 2024 focus areas include programs assisting pets of unhoused populations, domestic violence assistance that allows caretakers and animals to leave together, and parrot rescues. Grants are one-time awards based on organizational fit with donor intent and social impact.

The National Institutes of Health is inviting applications for feasibility studies aimed at informing the design of future clinical trials. These studies should demonstrate scientific necessity and may involve mixed methods to assess recruitment, randomization, and intervention delivery. While applications are not currently being solicited, this notice encourages investigators with relevant expertise to prepare for potential collaboration on impactful public health trials.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

Jonathan F. Reichert & Barbara Wolff-Reichert Award for Excellence in Advanced Laboratory Instruction

This award is to recognize and honor outstanding achievement in teaching, sustaining (for at least four years), and enhancing an advanced undergraduate laboratory course or courses at U.S. institutions. The course(s) should provide a selection of experiments in a range of the various interest areas of physics, for example atomic physics, electronics and optics.

The award consists of $5,000 plus travel expenses (up to $2,000) to attend an APS meeting at which the award is presented, and a certificate citing the achievement of the honoree. The honoree will be invited to present a lecture at that meeting. The award will be offered annually.

Nominations will be considered for three review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.

The St. Francis Fund Grant Program

The St. Francis Fund Grant Program seeks to provide funding for programs that support animal welfare in Springfield and Greene County, MO. 

This fund will grant up to $3,400 in the summer of 2026.

In awarding grants, the CFO will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran status. Grantees must not, in the use of CFO grant funds, discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran status either in its employment practices or in its policies and procedures concerning access to services.

The Schmoldt Family Foundation for Education supports qualified nonprofit organizations aiming to enhance educational opportunities in the Bartlesville community. This grant focuses on proposals that benefit underserved populations, ensuring that educational initiatives reach those who may be overlooked. Eligible applicants include any 501(c)(3) nonprofit or tax-exempt organization, reinforcing the foundation's commitment to educational equity.

The State Energy Program Grant in North Dakota supports energy efficiency and conservation initiatives through funding and technical assistance from the U.S. Department of Energy. Applications are accepted year-round, with a priority for schools and non-profits. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, aimed at projects with a payback period of 10 years or less. Eligible applicants must be registered at SAM.gov and submit detailed proposals, including energy savings analyses for specific installations.

The Bailey Opportunity Grants, funded by the Arts & Culture Alliance of Greater Knoxville, support individual artists and small arts organizations. Applicants must be local residents, at least 18 years old, and demonstrate prior artistic work. The grants aim to enhance professional growth for 501(c)(3) designated entities and provide opportunities for Knoxville's creative community, promoting cultural engagement and artistic development in the region.

The Rapid Response Fund for Movement Building provides urgent financial support to grassroots organizations addressing social justice for low-income residents and people of color. Offering grants of $3,000 to $20,000, projects must show immediate community impact and demonstrate a commitment to racial and economic equity. Applications are processed within 30 days, with projects needing completion within six months. Priority is given to small organizations and collaborative efforts that empower marginalized communities.

The Team 1 Plastics Corporate Donor Advised Fund, managed by the Albion Community Foundation, offers grants up to $1,000 to support educational initiatives benefiting the greater Albion area. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and faith institutions serving the community. The foundation emphasizes community improvement, cultural heritage, and youth development, having awarded over $3.7 million in grants since its inception. This funding aims to enhance the quality of life for local residents.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

Lev D. Landau and Lyman Spitzer Jr. Award for Outstanding Contributions to Plasma Physics

Recognizes outstanding theoretical, experimental, or technical contribution(s) in plasma physics and for advancing the collaboration and unity between Europe and the United States of America by joint research or research that advances knowledge which benefits the two communities in a unique way.

The award may be given to a team or collaboration of up to four persons affiliated with either European or United States institutions.

The award consists of $4,000, a certificate citing the contributions made by the recipient, and a registration fee waiver to attend the meeting at which the award is to be presented.

The person or team receiving the award will be offered an invited talk at the forthcoming annual conference of APS-DPP (usually early November) or EPS-DPP (usually end of June, or first week of July), depending on the affiliation of the recipient(s).

On years that DPP is hosting, in the event of a team larger than five (5), DPP may cap the number of registration waivers.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

LeRoy Apker Award

The LeRoy Apker Award recognizes outstanding achievements in physics by undergraduate students, and provides encouragement to students who have demonstrated great potential for future scientific accomplishment. Two awards are presented each year, one to a student from a PhD granting institution, and one to a student from a non-PhD granting institution. The award consists of $5,000 for the recipient, $5,000 for their undergraduate institution's physics department to support undergraduate research, a certificate, and reimbursement for travel to an APS meeting to give an invited talk.

Six finalists are selected to present their research for the Apker Award Selection Committee. Each of the finalists will receive an honorarium of $2,000, $1,000 for their undergraduate institution’s physics department to support undergraduate research, reimbursement for travel to the selection meeting, and a certificate.

Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation

Founded in 1984, we are a 501(c)(3) public charity. Today, we manage more than 1,000 charitable funds, serving as the trusted stewards for more than $390 million in assets.

Our Community Investment team works with local nonprofits, schools and community leaders to identify gaps, assess critical needs and explore opportunities and possibilities.

Our Philanthropy team works with individuals, families, advisors, businesses, and nonprofits, offering deep and broad experience and expertise in philanthropic strategy, charitable and organizational endowments, and legacy planning.

As a Foundation, we connect donors with causes that inspire them. We invest and steward their gifts to amplify their generosity and create an even greater impact.

We’re proud to say that in collaboration with our donors, we've granted more than $350 million to nonprofits and causes throughout our area since our founding.

Lennox Area Community Fund

The Lennox Area Community Fund is a charitable endowment established to enhance the vibrancy of our communities and improve the qualify of life for those who call these special places home. Gifts to the fund grow over time thanks to the benefit of a pooled investment that generates long-term asset growth.

A board of local directors oversees the fund and works hand-in-hand with community members and civic leaders to understand needs and explore opportunities throughout the area. Each year, the board awards grants in support of local nonprofits and community-based projects and ideas.

Grants from the Lennox Area Community Fund support projects and programs aimed at enhancing quality of life and addressing important needs throughout our area.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

Leo Szilard Lectureship Award

To recognize outstanding accomplishments by physicists in promoting the use of physics for the benefit of society in such areas as the environment, arms control, and science policy. The lecture format is intended to increase the visibility of those who have promoted the use of physics for the benefit of society. The award consists of $5,000, a certificate citing the contributions of the recipient, plus $2,000 travel expenses for lectures given by the recipient at an APS meeting and at two or more educational institutions or research laboratories in the year following the award. The lectures should be especially aimed at physicists early in their careers.

Nominations will be considered for three review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

Leo P. Kadanoff Prize

This prize recognizes scientists whose theoretical, experimental, or computational achievements have opened new vistas for statistical and or nonlinear physics. The annual prize consists of $10,000, a medal, certificate, travel reimbursement up to $500 for recipients traveling within North America, up to $1,000 from overseas, and a registration waiver to attend the APS March Meeting to give an invited talk and accept the award.

Nominations will be considered for three review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.