Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Rhode Island

The Indigenous Scholarships: Arts Fund facilitates artistic development for Aboriginal Australian, Torres Strait Islander, Native American, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian artists. Offering up to $5,000, it supports projects in each other's countries, with applications due in March and September. Since 2002, over $1 million has been awarded to more than 500 artists, fostering cultural exchange and growth in the arts between Australia and the USA.

The COPIC Medical Foundation Grants aim to improve healthcare outcomes by funding programs that enhance patient safety and reduce medical errors. With over $10 million awarded since its inception in 1991, the foundation focuses on scalable solutions to address healthcare fragmentation. This final grant cycle emphasizes innovative approaches that can be replicated across the healthcare community. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified or have a fiduciary partner to qualify for funding.

The Measurement and Evaluation Graduate Student Award, offered by SHAPE America, aims to support graduate students specializing in psychomotor measurement and evaluation. This scholarship assists with professional expenses, ensuring candidates can focus on their studies. Eligible applicants must be current SHAPE America members and pursuing relevant master's or doctoral degrees. The award prioritizes those who have completed their first year of study, promoting excellence in health and physical education across the U.S.

Morgan Stanley Alliance for Children’s Mental Health Innovation Awards aim to fund innovative mental healthcare solutions for children in the U.S. This initiative invites U.S.-based 501(c)(3) charities with revenues under $5 million to submit projects. With up to $550,000 in grants, the program focuses on addressing critical mental health issues among youth, fostering equity in access to care, and supporting nonprofits led by young leaders. Awards include up to $100,000 for general and $50,000 for Next Gen projects.

Who We Are - CAP Foundation

Mission

Our mission is to improve people’s health by:

• Developing tomorrow’s pathology leaders through awards for advanced training, research, and education.
• Mobilizing pathologists to expand health equity in medically underserved communities within the US and globally.

Vision

Our vision is that pathologists are equipped to bridge health disparities and enhance outcomes globally.

CAP Foundation History

For over 50 years, the CAP Foundation has granted millions of dollars to support pathology education, research, training, and travel grants, with the purpose to:

• Enhance the role of the pathologist in the provision of medical care.
• Advance pathology through the education of the medical community.
• Encourage the clinical application of research developments.

Our Core Values

• Advancement: We are committed to pushing the boundaries of pathology and patient care through scholarships, grants, and educational programs.
• Collaboration: Through effective partnerships, we significantly enhance our capacity to fulfill our mission.
• Excellence: We are dedicated to achieving the highest standards in pathology education, research, and community service.
• Service: Service reflects our core mission of improving health equity by providing access to healthcare and pathology expertise, particularly in underserved communities.

Presidential Pathology Scholarship

This scholarship allows the sitting CAP President to personally support educational creativity, expand awareness of pathology, and connect communities through the CAP Foundation’s mission to develop tomorrow’s pathology leaders. This scholarship is established in honor of each sitting CAP President, as a commitment to the CAP Foundation’s efforts to advance the specialty by supporting creative projects that encourage interest in or expand the reach of pathology. Up to two scholarships will be supported each year. Ranging from $500-$1,500 per awardee, to be used toward the selected project(s).

Each year the sitting CAP President will select a focus area to support based on at least one of the CAP Foundation’s Five (5) Pillars. CAP Foundation Five Pillars:

• Global: Expands global pathology access, capacity, training, and equity.
• Future Leaders: Builds pipeline through learning, leadership, mentorship, and awards.
• Ethics, Research, Innovation: Advances ethical practice, discovery, innovation, and diagnostic excellence.
• Advanced Training: Delivers specialized skills through grants, workshops, and roundtables.
• Community Engagement: Increases visibility and connection with patients, partners, and the public.

Brave Beginnings Grants, under the Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Foundation, focus on enhancing neonatal care by providing vital equipment to hospitals. Since 2006, the program has awarded approximately $1 million annually to Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) across the U.S. Following a suspension due to COVID-19, the 2026 grant cycle is now open, with applications due by February 13, 2026. This initiative aims to ensure the availability of lifesaving equipment for newborns in critical need.

The NASPGHAN Foundation Abbott Advanced Fellowship in Pediatric Nutrition offers up to $75,000 for one year of advanced training in pediatric nutrition for members of NASPGHAN. This fellowship aims to enhance pediatric nutrition expertise by supporting a well-defined clinical experience and focused research project. Eligible applicants must be MDs or DOs and members in good standing, with a preference for those seeking training at different institutions. This initiative addresses the increasing importance of pediatric nutrition in child health.

About Samba RecoverySamba Recovery is dedicated to empowering individuals recovering from alcoholism and drug addiction by restoring confidence and fostering resilience. Through a foundation of compassion, support, and holistic care, we guide individuals toward renewed health and wellness, meaningful relationships, and the discovery of their inner strengths—assisting them to achieve their fullest potential.Hope for Addiction ScholarshipSamba Recovery’s Hope for Addiction Scholarship is an annual $1,000 award dedicated to encouraging more young people to join the fight against addiction by pursuing degrees that directly support individuals and families affected by substance use disorders.

We welcome applications from all eligible students, with special encouragement for those who are in recovery themselves or who have been impacted by addiction within their families.Application requirements:

• Proof of college enrollment or acceptance
• Pursuing a degree with the goal of working with individuals and/or families impacted by addiction
• Completed application form
• An original 500 to 1000 word essay on how you are planning to use your degree to help individuals and families struggling with addiction, and why helping those affected by substance use disorder is important to you

Samardzija-Gutesha Family Fund

The Field of Interest Fund reflects the Samardzija-Gutesha family’s values and commitment to giving back. It supports education and hands-on learning in farming, soil health, and water conservation, with a focus on FFA members and associate-level college students.

Scholarships benefit graduating seniors and second-year post-high school students who are originally from DeKalb County high schools with FFA programs.

The Samardzija-Gutesha Family Fund provides scholarships for post-high school students pursuing education in agriculture or conservation, as well as paid internships with local farmers, and conservation professionals. It also supports educational seminars on topics such as sustainable farming and agricultural business, and provides grants to local organizations that align with the donor’s values.

In its first year, the Fund awarded $65,000 in scholarships to eight graduating seniors from DeKalb, Genoa-Kingston, Indian Creek, Somonauk, and Sycamore high schools (pictured above). Each student attending a two-year college received a $5,000 scholarship, while students planning to attend a four-year university received $10,000.

2026 Veterans and Nature Grant

Supporting the health, well-being, and community connection of America's veterans

The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) is pleased to announce grant funding supported by the American Medical Association (AMA) to expand access to nature-based experiences that support the health, well-being, and community connection of America's veterans. AMA has partnered with NEEF to bring an evidence-based health perspective to this effort, underscoring the growing body of research linking time in nature to improved physical and mental health outcomes.

Background

A Pew Research Center survey found that roughly one in four veterans say the transition back to civilian life was at least somewhat difficult. This is especially true for those who return home with stress or trauma. The National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates 11-20% of veterans are believed to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) each year.

Nature offers profound restorative benefits for veterans navigating the challenges of post-service life. Time spent outdoors — whether hiking, fishing, camping, or simply sitting among trees — has been shown by numerous studies to reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression, conditions that affect veterans at disproportionately high rates.

Quieting hypervigilance, allowing space for reflection, fostering camaraderie, and reducing isolation are all mental and physical benefits that be found through outdoor recreation. Using America’s public lands to do so provides a powerful and accessible path forward.

Overview

Through the 2026 Veterans and Nature grant, NEEF aims to expand access to nature-based experiences that support veteran health, well-being, and community connection by

• Providing opportunities for outdoor activities on public land that improve the physical and mental health of veterans
• Increasing veterans’ understanding of the physical and mental health benefits of time in nature

The grant will provide up to $10,000 per grantee for projects on federal, state, local, or nonprofit public lands that address physical and mental health in veteran communities.

Examples of project types include outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, climbing, or fishing; wellness activities, such as forest bathing or meditation; environmental education, such as community science; adaptive programming; and conservation volunteering. Projects are not limited to those listed here.

The Susie Kubié Symphonic Music Scholarship, established in 2017, provides financial support to talented young musicians from the Albuquerque Youth Symphony Program (AYSP). Each year, up to $4,000 is awarded to new or renewing scholars pursuing a music degree. Applicants are required to submit a personal essay, letters of reference, and a video performance. This scholarship not only aids students in their educational pursuits but also honors Susie Kubié's legacy of dedication to music education.

The PennHOSA Foundation Scholarship promotes healthcare careers by providing scholarships to HOSA student members in Pennsylvania. It aims to enhance compassionate care delivery and community needs. Additionally, the Helen Heidelbaugh Aspire Award is given to one student focusing on community service. Eligible applicants must be HOSA members and enrolled in accredited healthcare programs, demonstrating financial need. This scholarship is a one-time award, reinforcing the commitment to future healthcare professionals.

The Tick-borne Pathogen Award, sponsored by Bay Area Lyme Foundation, offers $150,000 to support innovative research on non-Borrelia tick-borne pathogens. This grant aims to attract scientific talent to explore co-infections with Lyme disease and other related infections. Eligible candidates include researchers from academia or the private sector at the post-doctoral level or higher, with a focus on improving diagnostics and therapies for tick-borne diseases. Applications must present a viable proof-of-concept project.

The Native Forward Scholars Fund Internship Assistance Program empowers Native students by providing financial support for internships in non-STEM fields. This initiative breaks down financial barriers, enabling students to gain practical experience in areas like public policy, education, and cultural preservation. Through this program, students enhance their skills while contributing positively to their Tribal communities. The funding covers essential costs such as travel and living expenses, ensuring transparency and accountability in financial assistance.

The BIE Professional Development Funding for STEM Educators and Students, offered by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, supports training opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) for TCU faculty, staff, and students. This funding assists with costs related to professional development including continuing education, conferences, and certifications. Eligible applicants include educators at BIE-funded or controlled schools, as well as those at institutions with significant Native American populations, fostering increased representation and support for Native scholars.

The Big Bald Dave Adventure Scholarship, provided by the Yellowstone Club Community Foundation, honors Dave Mueller's passion for outdoor adventure. It offers a unique summer trip for Big Sky students in grades 9-11 who demonstrate leadership and a love for the outdoors. Supported by Adventures Cross Country, this scholarship is a wonderful opportunity for students to engage in enriching experiences while giving back to the community. Notably, it is not based on financial need.

The Mobilize Power Fund Grant, offered by the Third Wave Fund, supports youth-led gender justice activism. This rapid response fund targets organizations led by young women of color and LGBTQ+ youth, providing up to $10,000 for urgent needs. It prioritizes groups addressing recent incidents that threaten their work, fostering community power and leadership. Organizations with budgets under $500,000 can apply, aiming for impactful, time-sensitive initiatives that promote social change.

The SAF National Awards Program honors individuals in forestry for their innovative contributions to diversity and inclusion. Notably, the Cultural and Community Engagement Award recognizes SAF members who exemplify leadership in these areas. This award not only includes a $500 honorarium but also offers complimentary registration to the SAF convention and additional funds for travel. It highlights the importance of fostering an inclusive culture within the forestry profession.

The SAF National Awards Program recognizes exceptional student leaders in forestry. The Student Leadership Award honors an SAF student member demonstrating leadership skills at various levels. Recipients receive a $200 honorarium, complimentary convention registration, and up to $500 for travel expenses. Additionally, the recipient's faculty advisor and SAF Student Chapter benefit from $150 each. This award aims to encourage student engagement and excellence in sustainable forestry and resource management.

The Carl Alwin Schenck Award, presented by the Society of American Foresters, honors exemplary contributions in forestry education. This prestigious award recognizes individuals with at least ten years of professional experience who demonstrate outstanding teaching abilities and commitment to forestry. Awardees receive a $500 honorarium, complimentary registration for the SAF national convention, and up to $500 for travel expenses. This award underlines the importance of effective education in advancing sustainable forestry practices.

Oregon Department of Forestry

Vision: Complex and resilient forest ecosystems that endure and adapt.

Mission: To protect and promote resilient forests that benefit all Oregonians.

US Dept. of Transportation Grant - Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program

The purpose of this Notice of Funding Opportunity is to solicit applications for Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grants.

Funds for the fiscal year (FY) 2026 SS4A grant program are to be awarded on a competitive basis to support planning, infrastructural, behavioral, and operational initiatives to prevent death and serious injury on roads and streets involving all roadway users, including pedestrians; bicyclists; public transportation, personal conveyance, and micromobility users; motorists; and commercial vehicle operators.

The SS4A Grant Program includes: 1) Planning and Demonstration Grants; and 2) Implementation Grants.

Planning and Demonstration Grants

Planning and Demonstration Grant Eligibility Requirements

Eligible activities for a Planning and Demonstration Grant include: develop a new Action Plan, conduct supplemental safety planning to update an existing Action Plan, or carry out safety demonstration activities to inform the development of or update to an Action Plan.

These activities may be bundled in any combination, provided that the requirements in this Notice are met. DOT encourages complementary but distinct activities, including but not limited to safety demonstration activities that will help inform the development of an Action Plan. Any applicant that meets the eligibility requirements may apply for a Planning and Demonstration Grant to develop an Action Plan. 

• Expected number of awards: 400 to 700

The NEA Federal Rescue Implementation Network Grant provides up to $100,000 per year for two years to state affiliates for hiring a coordinator to implement the American Rescue Plan in support of public education. This funding is specifically for backfilling a position that must remain filled for at least ninety days, ensuring effective oversight of federal recovery initiatives within the affiliate.

Oregon Department of Forestry

Vision: Complex and resilient forest ecosystems that endure and adapt.

Mission: To protect and promote resilient forests that benefit all Oregonians.

US Dept. of Transportation Grant - Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program

The purpose of this Notice of Funding Opportunity is to solicit applications for Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grants.

Funds for the fiscal year (FY) 2026 SS4A grant program are to be awarded on a competitive basis to support planning, infrastructural, behavioral, and operational initiatives to prevent death and serious injury on roads and streets involving all roadway users, including pedestrians; bicyclists; public transportation, personal conveyance, and micromobility users; motorists; and commercial vehicle operators.

The SS4A Grant Program includes: 1) Planning and Demonstration Grants; and 2) Implementation Grants.

Implementation Grants

Implementation Grants fund projects and strategies identified in an Action Plan that address roadway safety problems. Implementation Grants may also fund supplemental planning and demonstration activities, as well as project-level planning, design, and development activities for projects and strategies identified in an Action Plan (e.g., project-level 21 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance, associated environmental review activities, permits and approvals, construction design, etc.). 

• Expected number of awards: 40 to 70

The Building Hope: Future Forward Schools Prize & Fellowship Program aims to enhance career exploration for middle and high school students. This initiative, launched by Building Hope in partnership with American Student Assistance, recognizes schools that excel in career-connected learning. Awardees receive funding, mentorship, and resources to empower students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring they develop essential skills for future success. With $50,000 available for five schools, this program fosters innovation and prepares students for a changing economy.

The Dr. Alice M. Hudder- Richard T. Molder Post-Secondary Scholarship Fund, established by Richard Molder, supports Erie County high school seniors pursuing post-secondary education. In 2023, the Erie Community Foundation awarded over $800,000 in scholarships to deserving students. Two awards will be granted: one for students focusing on science, math, or business, and another for those studying art or music, emphasizing financial need and a strong work ethic.

The NBA Foundation Grants aim to empower Black youth by providing economic opportunities through skills training, mentorship, and career advancement programs. Established by all 30 NBA teams, the foundation focuses on organizations aligned with its mission, specifically those serving Black youth in NBA markets. Applications for 2024 grants are now open, with a review process taking 12-14 weeks. This initiative is crucial for promoting sustainable economic and racial justice in communities.

The Dementia CAReS Grants aim to enhance the lives of American Indian and Alaska Native communities affected by dementia. By providing funding, training, and support, this initiative focuses on developing actionable strategies within Tribal and Urban Indian settings. Key activities include establishing a network of dementia champions and promoting local best practices. The goal is to empower communities to improve dementia care and outcomes through collaborative efforts and innovative approaches.