Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Rhode Island

Community Foundation of the Lowcountry

With more than $125 million invested in the Lowcountry area since 1994, Community Foundation of the Lowcountry is the largest source of unrestricted philanthropic resources dedicated to Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper Counties. Throughout our history, we have expanded our services, undertaken important initiatives and altered our course to ensure we’re serving the needs of the Lowcountry. We provide donors and nonprofits the steadfast philanthropic leadership to transform, empower and enhance the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Since 1995, we’ve been a resource for students and parents who are looking for a way to offset the cost of tuition while bypassing the use of student loans.

Heritage Classic Foundation Scholarships

Every year we award Heritage Scholarships to 11 high school seniors who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, community service and leadership skills. Since the program began in 1993, we’ve distributed $5.75 million in scholarships to 408 students from Beaufort and Jasper Counties.

Union County Foundation

For more than three decades, the Union County Foundation has been dedicated to serving the Union County, Ohio community as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to assist individuals and organizations with the accumulation, investment, and distribution of charitable dollars. We believe in enhancing the quality of life for all the citizens of Union County by promoting and facilitating charitable giving. Together, we can create a positive and lasting impact that will benefit our community for generations to come. Join us in our mission and be a part of something truly meaningful.

John & Kandy Taylor College Expenses Grant

This program was established in 2019, to honor the memory of John and Kandy  Taylor. They were both strong supporters of helping the Union County community and higher education.

This grant awards one student recipient per academic school year (Autumn through Summer semester). The recipient would be reimbursed for school-related purchases (i.e. textbooks, classroom materials, supplies) each semester, for a combined total of up to $200.

The Hew-Shinn Scholarship Fund honors A.K. Hew's parents and emphasizes education's importance. This scholarship is available to Maui County residents enrolled in accredited vocational programs, with a minimum GPA of 2.0 required. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and submit a letter of recommendation. The application deadline aligns with the pre-proposal deadline, ensuring timely consideration for interested students.

Ron Brown Scholar Fund

The Ron Brown Scholar Fund is a public 501c3 charity and administers the Ron Brown Scholar Program (RBSP). Established in 1996 by Anthony M. Pilaro to honor the late Secretary of Commerce, RBSP is a college scholarship and leadership program for African American students. Our three initiatives support young people who share Ron Brown’s dedication to individual excellence, leadership, and public service

Ron Brown Signature Scholarship

The Ron Brown Scholarship honors the legacy of Ronald H. Brown through a selective scholarship program that advances higher education for community-minded and intellectually gifted African Americans.

RBSP competitively awards 20 four-year $40,000 scholarships ($10,000 each year) to the most talented and economically-challenged high school seniors who demonstrate a keen interest in public service, community engagement, business entrepreneurship and global citizenship – the four pillars of the late Ronald H. Brown’s mission to uplift people of all races, cultures and ethnicities – especially our disadvantaged youth.

Recipients may use the renewable scholarships to attend an accredited four-year college or university of their choice within the United States. Ron Brown scholarships are not limited to any specific field or career objective and may be used to pursue any academic discipline. Since the Program’s inception in 1996, 683 students have been designated as Ron Brown Scholars.

The NewSchools: Innovative Schools Grant supports education leaders aiming to create new public and charter schools that address the unique needs of today's students. With funding ranging from $150,000 to $250,000, the grant emphasizes equity and innovative educational models. Applications are encouraged before the December 10, 2024 priority deadline, with the final deadline on January 8, 2025. This initiative seeks to empower diverse communities through transformative educational solutions.

The Bear Paw Resort Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, supports graduating seniors from White Lake High School who plan to pursue post-secondary education. With over $2 million available for scholarships in 2025, this initiative aims to empower students in their educational journeys. The scholarship is designed to assist with tuition costs, payable after the completion of the first semester, thereby encouraging academic success and community development.

The Farmers Advocating for Organic Grant (FAFO) supports impactful projects that enhance the organic agricultural sector, focusing on initiatives that assist family farmers and promote organic soil health. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and research institutions. FAFO prioritizes projects that address the needs of organic dairy, meat, and produce farmers while fostering cooperative growth. This grant aims to strengthen the organic industry and ensure the livelihood of organic farmers across the nation.

Wallingford Education Foundation

Our Mission

The Wallingford Education Foundation is a non-profit, community-based partnership supporting educational innovation and excellence in our town.

Our Vision

The Wallingford Education Foundation empowers ideas and enhances educational experiences for students, educators and community members. It provides financial support outside the education budget that is aligned with the goals and focus areas of the school district’s strategic plan.

Professional Development Grant

Transformative impacts often result from staff members who choose to attend professional development programs. Typically, these opportunities are funded through the town’s annual school budget. However, the district may not be financially able to meet each request. Through the Professional Development Grant program, the Wallingford Education Foundation (WEF) provides additional funding for employees of Wallingford Public Schools to attend conferences hosted outside the district.

The Professional Grant program offers paired grants of $1,000 each for two Wallingford Public Schools staff members to attend the same professional development opportunity together OR single grants of up to $2,000 for an individual to attend a conference alone. Multiple grants are awarded yearly.

Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico

Mission: The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico serves as a community resource, connects donors to needs, and supports charitable organizations in their work.

Scholarships

CFSNM offers scholarships that support students from all walks and stages of life in pursuing various avenues of their educational and professional journeys.

Applicants must be pursuing any avenue of higher education and/or professional certifications. This includes undergraduate, post-grad, vocational and more! Applicants must be actively enrolled as a student. Applicants in high school must be a graduating senior.

Carol Troeller Second Chance Scholarship Fund

To support students with emergency financial needs with a preference for a female student in business fields of study

The Cecilia Payne Gaposchkin Doctoral Dissertation Award in Astrophysics, provided by the American Physical Society (APS), honors outstanding doctoral research in astrophysics. It encourages effective communication of research findings. The award includes a $1,500 grant, a certificate, and a registration waiver for the APS April Meeting. Finalists receive up to $750 for travel reimbursement. Open to doctoral students who have defended their thesis within two years prior to the meeting, this award promotes excellence in astrophysics research.

The NIH Collaborative International Research Project aims to foster international research collaborations that align with the NIH mission. This grant encourages applications that incorporate at least one international subproject, offering oversight and tracking for NIH-funded international initiatives. Projects should leverage unique resources or populations abroad, contributing to advancements in health sciences relevant to NIH's objectives. This initiative underscores the importance of global partnerships in enhancing research capabilities and outcomes in the United States.

About USA Track & Field Foundation Inc

The USA Track & Field Foundation was established in 2002. Our Foundation provides a means to attract and guide funds to new and innovative track & field programs, with an emphasis on providing opportunities for youth and elite athletes.

Mission: 

To support the development of emerging elite athletes, while fostering integration within the broader track & field community. To facilitate the physical, educational, social and character development of youth track & field athletes and to help prepare them to mature and succeed in adult life.Team and Club SupportThe USA Track & Field Foundation may be able to provide support to certain Elite Track & Field / Running clubs in the US.

The AEG K-14 Education Fund Grant supports geological education across K-14 levels, including elementary, middle, high schools, and community colleges. Established by the AEG Foundation, its purpose is to encourage innovative teaching methods in geology through hands-on activities and professional demonstrations. Grants are available to accredited educators and institutions in the U.S. While AEG membership is encouraged, it is not mandatory. The fund excludes support for political activities and overhead costs.

The Community Foundation’s scholarships are for Arkansas students pursuing education at two- or four-year colleges or universities, vocational schools or technical training programs. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria. Some scholarships are designated for graduates of a particular high school or those who plan to attend a particular college. Others are based on extracurricular activities or intended college majors.  

The Foundation has a scholarship portal with a quiz to help applicants determine scholarship eligibility. 

“Since 1976, the Community Foundation has partnered with individuals and organizations who want to support our state’s students in their pursuit of higher education,” said Heather Larkin, Community Foundation president and CEO. “These generous people provide the funding and determine the size and eligibility criteria of each scholarship, while we oversee the application and awarding process on their behalf.” 

Arkansas Service Memorial Scholarship

For students who are children of Arkansans who lost their life in service in the state, nation or community.

The Sarah Scaife Foundation Grant supports public policy initiatives that tackle significant domestic and international challenges. This grant is intended for publicly-supported non-profit organizations and does not extend to individuals or national fundraising groups. Proposals related to event sponsorships, capital campaigns, or organizations reliant on government funding are typically declined. The focus remains on impactful projects that align with the Foundation's mission.

Stanislaus Community Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students in order to help them achieve their educational and career goals. We believe that by investing in our students, we are investing in a brighter future for Stanislaus. 

Diane Bava Memorial Scholarship

Sponsored by Amador Family Scholarship Fund, this scholarship is open to current or former Modesto City School District students.

Award Amount:

• $1,000

The Community Foundation’s scholarships are for Arkansas students pursuing education at two- or four-year colleges or universities, vocational schools or technical training programs. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria. Some scholarships are designated for graduates of a particular high school or those who plan to attend a particular college. Others are based on extracurricular activities or intended college majors.  

The Foundation has a scholarship portal with a quiz to help applicants determine scholarship eligibility. 

“Since 1976, the Community Foundation has partnered with individuals and organizations who want to support our state’s students in their pursuit of higher education,” said Heather Larkin, Community Foundation president and CEO. “These generous people provide the funding and determine the size and eligibility criteria of each scholarship, while we oversee the application and awarding process on their behalf.” 

Lillian McGillicuddy Republican Party of Arkansas Scholarship

For students involved in the Young Republicans organization.

Charles Black Construction Company, Inc. Scholarship

The Charles Black Scholarship Fund award identifies and recognizes high school seniors at various high schools in northeast Georgia who have achieved excellence in school and community life. The scholarship fund was created by the Charles Black Construction Company in 2002 as a way to show appreciation for past business relationships by giving back to the community. The scholarship was formally known as the Northeast Georgia School Superintendent’s Scholarship. The resulting scholarships recognize today’s graduating seniors, inspire undergraduate students, and will impact the quality of life in our communities for generations to come.

This scholarship is a one-time award, and recipient school systems and award amounts are determined each year by the Charles Black Construction Company. In 2026, scholarships will be awarded to graduating seniors who plan to attend an accredited college, university, or technical school.

The 2026 scholarships will be 41, $1,000 awards available to graduating seniors at: Apalachee High School, Banks County High School, Barrow Arts and Sciences Academy, Commerce City, Elbert County High School, Franklin County High School, Gilmer County High School, Hart County High School, Lanier Christian Academy, Lumpkin County High School, Madison County High School, Newton County High Schools (Alcovy, Eastside and Newton), Rabun County High School, Towns County High School, Union County High School, White County High School, and Winder-Barrow High School.

The Society of Family Planning is dedicated to advancing equitable access to contraception and abortion through science. The recent approval of Opill, the first over-the-counter oral contraceptive in the U.S., presents a unique opportunity to enhance contraceptive access. This initiative encourages research on implementation strategies to address cost, distribution, and education, ensuring the successful integration of over-the-counter contraceptives into healthcare options for all.

About Decatur County Community Foundation

Decatur County Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter. 

Our Mission

To inspire the generosity of our community to create a lasting impact.

​We help visionary donors practice highly effective charitable giving; award grants to not-for-profits doing good in the community; award scholarships to ease the financial burden of education for students; provide leadership to make Decatur County a better community.

Online Scholarships

The following scholarships are managed by the Decatur County Community Foundation. Complete details for each scholarship are available on the individual online scholarship application.

Don and Barb Horan Memorial Scholarship

The mission of this scholarship is to help a student residing in Decatur County that will graduate from Oldenburg Academy.

About RRCF

Who We Are

Since 1999 we have been fostering philanthropy in South and East King County and acting as a connector around people, place and purpose. Our mission is to ignite the power of philanthropy – by connecting people, ideas and resources – to support and engage our community.

We partner with individual philanthropists and non-profit organizations to provide solutions to today’s challenges, so that together we can work toward our vision of a vibrant, equitable region where communities flourish and everyone thrives.

Scholarships

Helping to educate the next generation

The Renton Regional Community Foundation manages a number of scholarship funds and strongly supports your dream to pursue a post-secondary education. In 2025 we awarded $117,950 to 27 students. 

In 2026, 22 scholarships are provided due to the generosity of Renton Regional Community Foundation fund holders.

This scholarship was established in 2018 for the purpose of furthering the education and overall development of a student who has lost a parent prior to graduating high school.

The ASPCA is offering up to $14 million in Spay/Neuter Grants for shelters and clinics across the U.S. to enhance spay/neuter services for vulnerable animals. Proposals can address critical infrastructure needs and major capital projects to increase spay/neuter capacity. Only one application per organization is permitted, and applicants must choose one funding category. The focus is on compelling proposals that meet the most urgent needs.

2026 ASPCA Grants for Shelters and Spay/Neuter Clinics

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) is offering up to $14 million in grants to support shelters and spay/neuter clinics in meeting the needs of vulnerable animals throughout the United States, including addressing the shortfall in available spay/neuter surgeries. We will fund qualified proposals that support:

• Critical shelter infrastructure
• Strengthening shelter essentials
• Increasing the number of spay/neuter surgeries year-over-year 
• Major capital projects that increase spay/neuter capacity
• Special projects that increase spay/neuter capacity

Spay/Neuter Grants

Spay/Neuter Major Capital Projects

Only one application per agency/organization will be considered. 

Applicants may choose only one of the five funding categories. Our interest is in meeting your most pressing needs in one of the offered categories; we do not have our own preference for funding one category over another. We will fund the most compelling proposals, regardless of category chosen.

2026 ASPCA Grants for Shelters and Spay/Neuter Clinics

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) is offering up to $14 million in grants to support shelters and spay/neuter clinics in meeting the needs of vulnerable animals throughout the United States, including addressing the shortfall in available spay/neuter surgeries. We will fund qualified proposals that support:

• Critical shelter infrastructure
• Strengthening shelter essentials
• Increasing the number of spay/neuter surgeries year-over-year 
• Major capital projects that increase spay/neuter capacity
• Special projects that increase spay/neuter capacity

Spay/Neuter Grants

Increasing Spay/Neuter Surgeries

Only one application per agency/organization will be considered. 

Applicants may choose only one of the five funding categories. Our interest is in meeting your most pressing needs in one of the offered categories; we do not have our own preference for funding one category over another. We will fund the most compelling proposals, regardless of category chosen.

2026 ASPCA Grants for Shelters and Spay/Neuter Clinics

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) is offering up to $14 million in grants to support shelters and spay/neuter clinics in meeting the needs of vulnerable animals throughout the United States, including addressing the shortfall in available spay/neuter surgeries. We will fund qualified proposals that support:

• Critical shelter infrastructure
• Strengthening shelter essentials
• Increasing the number of spay/neuter surgeries year-over-year 
• Major capital projects that increase spay/neuter capacity
• Special projects that increase spay/neuter capacity

Shelter Grants

Strengthening Shelter Essentials

Only one application per agency/organization will be considered. 

Applicants may choose only one of the five funding categories. Our interest is in meeting your most pressing needs in one of the offered categories; we do not have our own preference for funding one category over another. We will fund the most compelling proposals, regardless of category chosen.

2026 ASPCA Grants for Shelters and Spay/Neuter Clinics

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) is offering up to $14 million in grants to support shelters and spay/neuter clinics in meeting the needs of vulnerable animals throughout the United States, including addressing the shortfall in available spay/neuter surgeries. We will fund qualified proposals that support:

• Critical shelter infrastructure
• Strengthening shelter essentials
• Increasing the number of spay/neuter surgeries year-over-year 
• Major capital projects that increase spay/neuter capacity
• Special projects that increase spay/neuter capacity

Shelter Grants

Critical Shelter Infrastructure

Only one application per agency/organization will be considered. 

Applicants may choose only one of the five funding categories. Our interest is in meeting your most pressing needs in one of the offered categories; we do not have our own preference for funding one category over another. We will fund the most compelling proposals, regardless of category chosen.

The ASHP Foundation offers Professional Advancement Scholarships for pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and graduating pharmacy students, enabling them to attend national meetings for networking and professional growth. For the 2025 ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting, scholarships include full registration and $1,000 for travel support. This initiative aims to enhance professional development opportunities within the pharmacy community, fostering connections and knowledge sharing among healthcare professionals.