Best Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Puerto Rico

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Willie “Beaver” Troutman Football Scholarship

This scholarship, created in 2022, honors Willie “Beaver” Troutman and his longstanding coaching career in Marion County.

For generations to come, this scholarship will assist students financially to further their potential in academics and athletics.

The Willie ‘Beaver’ Troutman Football Scholarship is open to any student-athlete who attended a high school located in Marion County (Ohio) for at least 2 years, maintained a GPA of 2.5 or greater, and demonstrates volunteerism in the community and/or extraordinary financial need.

The Robert Macario Ybarra Scholarship honors a passionate athlete and Hawley High School graduate who inspired many. Established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, this scholarship aims to support students from a 19-county area who have participated in varsity sports during their junior and senior years. By alleviating financial burdens, it enables recipients to pursue their educational aspirations, ensuring that no talented athlete has to forego opportunities due to financial constraints.

The Sheriff John Middleton Memorial Scholarship, established by friends to honor Sheriff John Middleton, offers financial support to employees or dependents of Taylor County law enforcement agencies. The Community Foundation of Abilene administers this scholarship, which awards between $500 and $5,000. Payments are made directly to educational institutions each semester. This scholarship reflects the values of dedication and integrity embodied by Sheriff Middleton, who served the community with distinction.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

United Church Homes Scholarship

The United Church Homes Scholarship Fund, created in 2018, supports higher education for Marion area students who intend to pursue a career involving service to older citizens, including, but not limited to, gerontology,

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

St. John Lutheran Church (Windfall) Scholarship

This scholarship fund was created in 2024 by the members of St. John Lutheran (Windfall) Church to support Marion and Morrow County students active with a Christian church. The fund, formerly known as the Horst Scholarship, migrated from the church to the stewardship of Marion Community Foundation.

The scholarship is open to seniors and graduates of high schools located in Marion and Morrow counties (must be a resident of one those counties at the time of application). Applicants must demonstrate that they are affiliated with a Christian church, located in Marion or Morrow County, that adheres to the Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds.

First consideration is given to seniors and candidates for graduation from high school; then, to graduates enrolled as a sophomore, junior, or senior in an undergraduate collegiate program.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Robert M. & Dorothy C. Wopat Scholarship

The largest scholarship fund at Marion Community Foundation, the Wopat Scholarship awards $100,000+ annually in support of local students.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Norman Withrow Golf Scholarship

The Norman Withrow Golf Scholarship Fund supports students from any Marion County high school who participate in varsity golf to attend the college or university of their choice.

The Tony Daniel Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports students from various high schools, including Coleman and Santa Anna. This scholarship honors Anthoney 'Tony' Daniel, a dedicated educator and FCA advocate, who inspired many during his life. Award amounts range from $500 to over $5,000, with payments sent directly to educational institutions for the fall and spring semesters, aiding students in their pursuit of education.

The Winters Area Foundation Alumni Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports Winters alumni currently enrolled in college. With awards ranging from $500 to over $5,000, this scholarship aims to ease the financial burden of higher education. Payments are made directly to educational institutions for the fall and spring semesters. This initiative highlights the Foundation's commitment to empowering students through financial assistance and fostering educational opportunities.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Nancy O. Whitaker Memorial Scholarship

The Nancy O. Whitaker Memorial Scholarship is available to students pursing an education in the field of speech and hearing, including research, treatment, education, and cures for people who suffer from speech and hearing impairments and diseases.

The Whitaker Scholarship is open to high school seniors who have lived in Marion for at least the last two years. 

The Council of Independent Colleges

Founded in 1956, the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) is an association of nonprofit independent colleges and universities, state-based councils, and higher education affiliates that works to support college and university leadership, advance institutional excellence, and enhance public understanding of independent higher education’s contributions to society.

CIC is the major national organization that focuses on providing services to leaders of independent colleges and universities and state-based councils. CIC offers conferences, seminars, publications, and other programs and services that help institutions improve educational quality, administrative and financial performance, student outcomes, and institutional visibility.

NetVUE Grant Programs

NetVUE offers a variety of grants to member institutions, supporting programming for students and professional development for faculty members and staff. Grants support projects ranging from one to four years in length. Grant programs are tailored to differing circumstances among member institutions, including their particular areas of interest, their bandwidth and capacity for administering projects, and the depth of their previous engagement with vocational exploration and discernment. NetVUE grants are administered by the Council of Independent Colleges, with generous support from Lilly Endowment Inc.

NetVUE Grants for Reframing the Institutional Saga

Many NetVUE member colleges and universities have strong historical ties to a specific religious tradition, a particular educational philosophy, or a pioneering educator. These elements of an institution’s heritage are important, but their significance may not always be clear in the midst of changes in the institution’s demographic profile, surrounding community, and founding organizations. These changes can influence student recruitment and retention, curriculum design, and the composition of faculty. The purpose of this grant program is to enable institutions to produce an updated account of their history and mission in light of their current context.

The Carnegie-Whitney Grant, established by Andrew Carnegie in 1902, supports the creation of bibliographical aids for American libraries. Grants cover the preparation costs of reading lists and indexes, enhancing access to library resources. Eligibility requires projects to stimulate library use and be broadly appealing, with a focus on national distribution. Notably, completed works and projects under contract are ineligible. The fund encourages innovation in library resource development, welcoming applications from individuals and organizations.

The Sergeant John Basilone Memorial Graduate Scholarship, offered by the UNICO Foundation, provides two awards of $3,000 each for graduate students of Italian descent. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, enrolled full-time in accredited programs, and reside in specified states. The scholarship supports students pursuing graduate studies in the academic year 2026-2027. UNICO promotes Italian American heritage and community service, making this scholarship a valuable opportunity for deserving students.

The Doyle O. and Lelia Jane Bateman Scholarship

The Doyle O. and Lelia Jane Bateman Scholarship, established at the Community Foundation in 2018, honors the memory of husband and wife of 46 years, Doyle and Jane Bateman. Jane worked as a successful realtor in Waynesboro for over 25 years and enjoyed giving back to her community.

The Doyle O. and Lelia Jane Bateman Scholarship will provide college scholarships to deserving students of any age, to include high school seniors (public, private, and homeschool) as well as adult students residing in Staunton, Waynesboro and Augusta County. Selection considerations for the scholarship include, but are not limited to, financial need, involvement in school and community activities, and a strong desire to succeed in school and life.

The Watson-Brown Foundation Scholarship offers need and merit-based financial assistance to students from Georgia and South Carolina attending accredited four-year colleges. Established in 1970, the foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities for underprivileged youth, awarding over $2.4 million annually. Eligible students can receive up to $3,000 per semester to cover educational expenses, supporting their academic journey while encouraging responsible scholarship and historic preservation.

The Ronald and Wendy Smith Clinical Research Grant supports innovative studies in orthopaedic foot and ankle surgery. Funded by the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society, it aims to enhance patient care through research that leads to practical applications. Grants up to $25,000 are available, with potential for renewal, encouraging multidisciplinary approaches and addressing critical clinical issues. Successful projects will be shared at AOFAS meetings and may lead to further funding opportunities.

Bojangles Promise of Tomorrow Scholarship

The Bojangles Promise of Tomorrow Scholarship was established at the Community Foundation in 2024 by Arnold Dale Haywood in the spirit of helping students take a step towards building a brighter future. Mr. Haywood’s parents, John and Diane, were humble, hardworking, and ethical people. They understood that the foundation of parenting is to give their children love and support, as well as encouragement to always believe in the promise of tomorrow. They gave him the chance to chase his dreams.

Mr. Haywood has established the Bojangles Promise of Tomorrow Scholarship to honor his parents and to give local youth the same encouragement and opportunities that were afforded to him.

The Emily Stover Memorial Scholarship offers $2,000 annually to support outstanding members of the Nantucket community. This scholarship is aimed at individuals who are dedicated to helping others and are pursuing careers that reflect this commitment. Eligible applicants must be Nantucket residents attending accredited colleges or universities, demonstrating a passion for community service and a desire to make a positive impact.

The Carl J. Niedzial Memorial Scholarship, established by the Connecticut Community Foundation in 1923, supports members of the CT State Police Credit Union and their immediate families, including grandchildren. As one of the largest scholarship providers in the Greater Waterbury and Litchfield Hills region, the foundation aims to help students achieve their college education dreams by addressing critical community issues and fostering equitable outcomes.

Community Foundation of Randolph County

Our mission is to bring people and resources together to strengthen the quality of life, both now and in the future, for the residents of Randolph County.

The Community Foundation’s work falls into three major categories: grant-making, donor service, and community convening. Our most visible activities are the grants and scholarships we award each year. Most of these awards come from income earned from permanently endowed funds. Scholarships and other grants come from funds that donors have established for specific purposes.

Ethan Cheesman Memorial Scholarship

Ethan Taylor Cheesman, a promising young athlete and student at Union Jr./Sr. High School, went to heaven on May 6, 2009 at the age of 15. Born in Muncie to Gregory D. and Paula K. (Clevenger) Cheesman, Ethan was a well-rounded individual with a passion for sports, music, and animals. He was an active member of the United Methodist Church in Losantville and excelled in various extracurricular activities, including track and field, basketball, cross-country, student council, and baseball. He was also a member of the band, playing both trumpet and French horn. Ethan’s kind and gentle nature, coupled with his great sense of humor, made him beloved by his friends and family. This scholarship honors his memory and supports students who embody his spirit and dedication.

The UNICO Foundation's Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship provides two scholarships of $2,500 each to students pursuing a degree. Open to all ethnicities, applicants must be U.S. citizens, attend an accredited college full-time, and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. They should continue their studies in the 2026-2027 academic year and may apply if sponsored by a UNICO chapter from specific states. This initiative underscores UNICO's commitment to supporting educational opportunities for deserving students.

The Persbacker Family Fund Scholarship, established by the Connecticut Community Foundation, is dedicated to residents of Bridgewater who have volunteered significantly in their community for over six years. This scholarship aims to support local students in achieving their college education dreams. With awards starting at $2,500, the foundation continues its legacy of fostering educational opportunities for deserving students in the Greater Waterbury and Litchfield Hills region.

The World Trade Center Scholarship in New Jersey provides financial support to dependent children and surviving spouses of residents who lost their lives in the September 11 attacks. Administered by HESAA, this scholarship covers tuition, fees, and other educational costs at eligible institutions. Applicants must be full-time students and maintain satisfactory academic progress. The award amount varies each year based on funding and need, ensuring that assistance is available to those who have lost financial support due to these tragic events.

Community Foundation of Randolph County

Our mission is to bring people and resources together to strengthen the quality of life, both now and in the future, for the residents of Randolph County.

The Community Foundation’s work falls into three major categories: grant-making, donor service, and community convening. Our most visible activities are the grants and scholarships we award each year. Most of these awards come from income earned from permanently endowed funds. Scholarships and other grants come from funds that donors have established for specific purposes.

Joe & Elizabethe Gardner Scholarship

This scholarship is open to a graduating senior who has applied and been accepted into a University, College, Junior College, or Technical School. Their proposed field of study must be in the area of 1) Home Economics Education, 2) Home Economics Specialty (i.e. dietetics, textiles, etc.), or 3) Home Economics related Health Occupation (listed as nursing, dental assistant, etc.).

The Military Heroes Program, funded by the Pentagon Federal Credit Union Foundation, offers high impact grants to support both active duty and retired service members in their transition to civilian life. This initiative focuses on harnessing military skills for community leadership, promoting educational programs that honor service, and providing resources for meaningful employment. Non-profit organizations can apply for funding to create programs that align with these priorities and positively impact veterans and their communities.

The Roxbury Volunteer Fire Department Memorial Scholarship, established by the Connecticut Community Foundation, supports college-bound students from Roxbury, offering a $2000 award. This scholarship prioritizes current or former members of the Roxbury Fire Department and their descendants, promoting educational opportunities for those committed to serving their community. With a legacy dating back to 1923, the Foundation plays a vital role in enhancing the educational landscape in the Greater Waterbury and Litchfield Hills region.

Community Foundation of Randolph County

Our mission is to bring people and resources together to strengthen the quality of life, both now and in the future, for the residents of Randolph County.

The Community Foundation’s work falls into three major categories: grant-making, donor service, and community convening. Our most visible activities are the grants and scholarships we award each year. Most of these awards come from income earned from permanently endowed funds. Scholarships and other grants come from funds that donors have established for specific purposes.

U & C Scholarship

Given to students who have been accepted into a 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning and are family members of vendors, business associates or children of company employees of B & F Plastics.