Best Private Grants for Nonprofits

The Portland Foundation Women’s Giving Circle Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Jay County, Indiana, by empowering women philanthropists. Established in 1951, this initiative supports tax-exempt organizations to address community needs through grants. With a focus on collaboration and resource pooling, the Circle seeks to award a $5,000 grant to strengthen local nonprofit organizations and their programming, ensuring a lasting impact on the community.

The Sweet Grass Community Foundation offers Micro Grants to support local organizations in addressing unexpected, urgent, or one-time expenses. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 organizations and government entities serving Sweet Grass County residents. However, requests for recurring expenses, travel, and payroll are not funded. This initiative aims to strengthen community efforts and enhance the capacity of local organizations to fulfill their missions effectively.

The Gaston Community Foundation's Unrestricted Competitive Grant Cycle invites nonprofit organizations to submit innovative proposals aimed at improving the quality of life in Gaston County. Grants are awarded based on demonstrated community support, potential for measurable positive outcomes, and sustainability plans. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt public agencies and 501(c)(3) charities. The Foundation prioritizes projects that enhance community collaboration and avoid duplication of services, ensuring that funds effectively address the needs of local citizens.

The Alleghany County Community Foundation Grant Program supports local nonprofit organizations by providing annual grants to enhance community life. Established in 1993, it offers funding for projects that address changing community needs, with an average grant of $1,000 and a maximum total of $16,000 available. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt charities and local government units. The program emphasizes inclusivity and does not fund political activities or general operating support for religious entities.

F.Y. Eye's PSA Grant Program empowers nonprofits in NYC by providing free advertising space through its unique PSA Network. This initiative aims to amplify vital community messages and resources, ensuring underserved populations receive essential information. By collaborating with local artists and creators, the program fosters public awareness and engagement. Nonprofits can share their messages at no cost, leveraging a significant media value of approximately $150,000, to promote narrative change and essential services across the five boroughs.

The Trail Blazers Foundation Fund – PLAY Grant aims to enhance the lives of underserved youth in Oregon and SW Washington by promoting physical activity. With grants of up to $50,000 over two years, eligible organizations can implement programs that encourage active lifestyles among children and their families. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to community engagement and health, ensuring that all youth have opportunities to thrive through active play.

The AAAE Native American Scholarship, offered by the AAAE Foundation, supports Native American students pursuing aviation studies at accredited institutions. Eligible applicants must be college juniors, seniors, or graduate students with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Selection is based on academic achievements, financial need, and community involvement. Two awards of $2,000 each are available, although amounts may vary. This non-renewable scholarship aims to foster future leaders in aviation.

The ASEEES Dissertation Research Grant, specifically the James Bailey Dissertation Research Grant in Folklore Studies, supports PhD students across various disciplines conducting research in folklore. It offers up to $6,000 for research in Eastern Europe and Eurasia, encouraging applications from students with ABD status who are ASEEES members. Research in eligible countries, including Ukraine and Russia, is allowed, although caution is advised due to the current geopolitical situation.

The Pence Contractors Diversity in Leadership Scholarship supports underrepresented students in Oregon pursuing construction engineering. Preference is given to residents of Multnomah County, aiming to foster diversity in the field. This scholarship encourages students to achieve their educational goals and prepare for careers in construction, contributing to a more inclusive workforce. It is a valuable opportunity for aspiring engineers to gain financial assistance and promote equity in the industry.

The Thesis Foundation Fund supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in the Portland metro area, including Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, and Clark counties. Its mission is to promote racial equity and serve underserved communities through educational and digital programming. The fund prioritizes grants for projects that address these issues, particularly during crises. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government agencies that advocate for equal opportunities and community support.

The ASEEES Dissertation Research Grant in Ukrainian Studies supports graduate students conducting research on any aspect of Ukrainian studies. With a maximum stipend of $6,000, it aims to facilitate research outside the US in eligible countries. Applicants must be ABD status, proficient in relevant languages, and ASEEES members. The grant promotes engagement with the complexities of Ukrainian culture, history, and society, encouraging innovative research that contributes to the understanding of this vital region.

The Johnsonburg Area Endowment Fund, established by the Johnsonburg Community Cable TV Company, aims to support nonprofit organizations serving the Johnsonburg Area. This fund is focused on providing financial assistance to projects that benefit the community, ensuring fair access regardless of race, religion, or creed. Organizations must be tax-exempt and demonstrate a clear benefit to local residents. Interested parties should connect with the Foundation staff before applying to ensure alignment with funding priorities.

The Plattsmouth Community Foundation Fund, established in 2000, aims to enhance community improvement through charitable giving. It supports civic, cultural, educational, and recreational needs, focusing on projects that foster a vibrant Plattsmouth. Preference is given to initiatives that align with the Hometown Competitiveness pillars, including leadership and youth engagement. The Fund Advisory Committee makes decisions on grant distributions, ensuring a positive impact on the community's future.

The Portland Foundation Summer Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Jay County, Indiana, by providing support to charitable organizations and community agencies. Established in 1951, the foundation encourages proposals that address local charitable needs, particularly for start-up costs, one-time projects, and capital needs. Eligible applicants include new or existing organizations committed to making a positive impact in the community.

The Community Foundation of Will County offers Community Partner Grants to enhance quality of life through strategic partnerships with not-for-profits. The grants focus on collaborative projects that address critical community needs, improve organizational capacity, and promote sustainable fundraising efforts. This initiative seeks to foster a culture of philanthropy across diverse groups within Will County, ensuring that resources are effectively utilized to benefit the community at large.

The Assaria Community Fund, managed by the Greater Salina Community Foundation, supports charitable projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents of Assaria, Kansas. This fund provides resources for community-serving initiatives, seed funding for new projects, and capacity-building efforts. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, requests for political projects or those that involve discrimination will not be considered. The fund emphasizes community collaboration and sustainable development.

The A. Ward Ford Memorial Research Grants, administered by the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, support innovative research projects. Applications are accepted through the ASLMS Research Grant application process. Interested applicants should fill out either the Standard Pre-Application or the Student Application to be considered for funding. This grant aims to foster research excellence and advance knowledge in relevant fields.

The Graham County Community Foundation's Unrestricted Fund supports local nonprofits with grants ranging from $500 to $2,500. Established in 1999, this fund addresses evolving community needs by enabling organizations to enhance the quality of life in Graham County. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities and local government units, ensuring a broad range of community services can be funded. The grants program is competitive and aims to foster philanthropic initiatives in the area.

The Japanese Studies Fellowship Program, offered by the Japan Foundation, supports doctoral candidates conducting research in Japan. This program, lasting 4-12 months, provides significant benefits including airfare, monthly stipends, and insurance. Applicants must be ABD at the start of the fellowship, with preference given to those poised to complete their dissertations shortly thereafter. The foundation aims to enhance cultural exchange and understanding between Japan and other nations, fostering future scholars in Japanese studies.

Low Family Foundation We See You Grants

The Low Family Foundation (LFF) We See You grant awards organizations that align with the values and interests of the Low Family Foundation’s founders: Joseph, Wilma and Rosemary Low. The LFF seeks to recognize and support the work of nonprofit organizations by expanding opportunities and supporting critical needs in and around Berrien County, MI.

The Low Family Foundation was established in 2023 through the generosity of Joseph N. and Rosemary E. Low. Joe practiced law all his life in Niles, Michigan and, with his first wife Wilma, had two sons, Joseph and John. Wilma was Joe’s legal secretary for almost 25 years and a major reason for his career and financial success. After her passing in 1995, Joe married her sister Rosemary and hence Rose was an aunt and stepmother to the sons. Joe passed in 2013, and Rose survived him until 2020. Joe, Wilma and Rose were each integral to the establishment of the Foundation.

Mission

The Joseph and Rosemary Low Family Foundation is created exclusively for charitable, religious or educational purposes including, for such purposes, making distributions to organizations that qualify as “not-for-profits.”  

The Foundation makes distribution grants in keeping with their many discussions with the Founders about their intentions. The Advisory Committee focuses on charities of known interest to the Founders: for example, Rose loved cats, Wilma was a supporter of nature centers and gardens, and Joe was interested in history. The Foundation generally limits its giving to a 100-mile radius of Berrien County, Michigan with a focus on meeting needs in Berrien County.   

The Haywood County Community Foundation offers an Unrestricted Endowment fund to support local nonprofit organizations. Established in 1994, this fund enables responsive grantmaking to meet community needs, with grants ranging from $500 to $1,500, totaling no more than $4,500 annually. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt public charities or local government entities, focusing on projects that benefit the community while ensuring non-discrimination in services provided. The program emphasizes flexibility in funding to adapt to evolving local challenges.

Bader Philanthropies' Community Matters Grant Programs focus on enhancing community engagement and support in Milwaukee. They provide funding to tax-exempt organizations and government entities that address critical human needs through innovative strategies. The program emphasizes grassroots initiatives and metrics like individuals served and mindset changes to measure success. Preliminary applications are reviewed on a rolling basis with deadlines aligned to biannual board meetings, ensuring timely responses to applicants.

The Duplin County Community Foundation Grant Program, administered by the North Carolina Community Foundation, provides funding for local nonprofits and community projects in Duplin County. Established in 2005, it aims to enhance community life through competitive grants. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and local government units, promoting inclusivity and non-discrimination. The program is focused on addressing pressing local needs, ensuring flexibility in funding for various projects, and supporting the overall mission of improving community welfare.

About Community Foundation of Fayette County (CFFC)

The Community Foundation of Fayette County (CFFC) is led by a volunteer Board of Directors and daily operations are managed by a small, professional staff. The foundation benefits Fayette County through personalized donor services and serves as a supportive community leader, grantmaker, and scholarship provider.What is a Community Foundation?

Community foundations are grantmaking public charities that are dedicated to improving the lives of people in a defined local geographic area. They bring together the financial resources of individuals, families, and businesses to support effective nonprofits in their communities.About the Grant

• The Arthur and Millicent Gabriel Legacy Fund is accepting grant requests for reusable items that will enhance the classroom(s). 
• Any teacher, school counselor, or administrator in the Laurel Highlands School District or Uniontown Area School District is encouraged to apply.
• Requests from $750 up to $10,000 will be considered. A maximum total of $30,000 may be awarded this grant cycle.

The Japanese Studies Fellowship Program by the Japan Foundation offers short-term research fellowships ranging from 21 to 89 days for scholars in the humanities and social sciences. This program aims to enhance Japanese Studies worldwide by supporting outstanding researchers conducting studies in Japan. Benefits include airfare, monthly stipends, and insurance. Priority is given to experienced scholars expected to publish their findings post-fellowship. Established in 1972, the Japan Foundation fosters cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

The Macon County Community Foundation's Unrestricted Endowment Fund supports local nonprofit organizations by providing annual grants ranging from $500 to $2,500, with a total grantmaking cap of $15,000. Established in 1991, the foundation focuses on meeting evolving community needs and enhancing quality of life in Macon County. Qualified organizations, including 501(c)(3) public charities and local government units, are encouraged to apply for funding to further their charitable missions.

The Mellon/ACLS Dissertation Innovation Fellowship offers a $42,000 stipend plus $8,000 for project-related expenses to support early-stage doctoral students in the humanities and social sciences. This fellowship encourages innovative dissertation research and aims to diversify academic methodologies and perspectives. Applicants must be PhD students in relevant fields, with certain eligibility criteria, including not having advanced to candidacy before January 2025. The fellowship promotes inclusive excellence, contributing to a diverse academic community.