Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Rhode Island

The Combined Pilot Research Grants from the Plastic Surgery Foundation and the American Society for Peripheral Nerve support innovative research in peripheral nerve surgery. Aiming to enhance scientific knowledge and clinical practices, these grants fund preliminary projects with a maximum of $15,000 for one year. Eligible applicants include those with doctoral degrees or those in relevant clinical positions, encouraging new collaborations and research initiatives to advance the field.

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's Student Traineeship Award supports students in engaging with cystic fibrosis research through hands-on projects. With a maximum funding of $4,000 for one year, the program aims to inspire students to pursue careers in CF research or care. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a degree program and collaborate with a faculty mentor on a relevant project. This initiative also emphasizes the importance of maintaining interest in CF-related research among new generations.

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation offers a Travel Award Supplement aimed at supporting Ph.D. students, postdoctoral fellows, and junior faculty. This funding of up to $3,000 enables trainees to participate in off-site workshops or training programs to enhance their research skills. Eligible applicants must be active researchers in CF projects, with a minimum of one year of experience. The program excludes conference attendance and for-profit entities, ensuring focused support for advancing cystic fibrosis research.

The Harry Shwachman Clinical Investigator Award, offered by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, supports clinically trained physicians transitioning to independent researchers in cystic fibrosis. It provides up to $133,000 per year for three years to facilitate research tailored to individual interests. The funding covers personnel costs and supplies, promoting a strong mentorship during this critical stage of their academic careers.

The Path to a Cure (PTAC) - Postdoc-to-Faculty Transition Award by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation supports postdoctoral fellows in advancing their research careers in cystic fibrosis. This program offers up to five years of funding, including 3 years for research training and 2 years for transitioning to an independent faculty position, with a maximum support of $110,000 per year. It aims to foster innovative research that develops new therapies for cystic fibrosis.

The Can'd Aid: Crush It Crusade Grant empowers nonprofits, local education, and government organizations to enhance recycling efforts. With grants ranging from $3,000 to $8,000, the program supports initiatives that promote recycling at community events, engage volunteers, and foster inclusive outreach. Since 2014, over 125 organizations have benefited from this funding, driving impactful change through community engagement and environmental stewardship.

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation offers the Path to a Cure (PTAC) Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Award to support innovative research training in cystic fibrosis (CF). Aimed at enhancing scientific knowledge and facilitating the transition to independent careers, this program funds projects targeting the development of new therapies for CFTR variants. Awards can reach up to $75,000 in the first year and $76,000 in the second year, fostering foundational research that could lead to breakthroughs in CF treatment.

About NCCF

For more than 50 years, NCCF has been taking on tough problems to improve the quality-of-life in Northwest CT by supporting nonprofits that speak to the charitable passions of our generous donors.

NCCF is a Community Foundation, a tax-exempt public charity that enables donors to establish funds that support the work of local nonprofits through grants and provide scholarships to local students.

NCCF's Board and Staff champion the causes you care about with smart grant-making designed specifically to adapt over time and provide highly attentive, knowledgeable, and compassionate service that brings donors and organizations together to address community issues.

Scholarship Opportunities and Applications

Through the generosity of fundholders and donors, NCCF has awarded more than half a million dollars in scholarships to assist students in Northwest Connecticut with the cost of higher education.

Michele Farley Pittler Scholarship

• Academic Focus: Unspecified
• Award Average: $1,000

The Mae Casali Bonvicini Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports Torrington High School graduating seniors aiming for higher education. With awards ranging from $400 to $1,500, this scholarship is designed to ease financial burdens for students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents in the NCCF’s service area. For over 50 years, NCCF has dedicated itself to enhancing the quality of life in Northwest Connecticut through grants and scholarships.

The Pizza Hut Foundation is offering scholarships for students demonstrating financial need and community leadership. Eligible applicants must be U.S. residents aged 17-26, enrolled in accredited post-secondary education for Spring 2026, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. Scholarship amounts range from $500 to $5,000, with distribution to be made in Spring 2026. The application period runs from July 8 to September 5, 2025, with notifications for recipients by November 17, 2025.

The Edward W. Diskavich Scholarship, established by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Edward W. Diskavich. It aims to support students from Oliver Wolcott Technical High School who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents in the service area. With awards ranging from $300 to $1,000, this scholarship helps alleviate the financial burden of higher education for deserving students, reflecting NCCF's commitment to enhancing community well-being through accessible educational opportunities.

The National Network of STI Clinical Prevention Training Centers (NNPTC) aims to enhance the education and training of clinicians and disease intervention professionals in STI patient care. This initiative focuses on improving the ability of healthcare providers and systems to effectively diagnose, manage, and counsel individuals at risk for STIs, ultimately reducing morbidity and enhancing public health outcomes on both local and national levels.

The INCLUDE Project aims to enhance the health and quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome by generating comprehensive genomic and multi-omics data. This initiative encourages applicants to submit samples to NIH-supported resources, facilitating the exploration of molecular mechanisms related to health conditions associated with Down syndrome. The data will be shared via the INCLUDE Data Hub, promoting collaboration within the research community, though no direct funding is available to applicants.

The Columbus Firefighters Foundation Scholarship supports the dependent children of active or retired members of the Columbus Division of Fire. Established by The Columbus Foundation in 1943, this scholarship aims to enhance the educational opportunities for these children. Eligible candidates must attend a public or nonprofit independent college or university in the U.S. full-time, with an award amount of $1,000 to assist in their educational journey.

The AGA Abstract Award for Health Disparities Research provides a $500 travel grant for graduate students, medical students, residents, clinical fellows, and postdoctoral fellows who present research on health disparities at Digestive Disease Week® (DDW). This award aims to enhance interest in gastroenterology research and improve access to care for underserved populations. It recognizes outstanding abstracts accepted by AGA, fostering future careers in digestive disease research among young professionals.

The Shubert Foundation provides unrestricted grants to not-for-profit professional theatre and dance companies in the U.S. Its focus is on organizations with a proven track record in artistic and administrative excellence. Eligible applicants must have a minimum annual budget of $150,000 and demonstrate financial stability, strong community engagement, and the ability to generate income. The foundation does not fund individuals, project-specific requests, or organizations without 501(c)(3) status.

The Fanny Vought Fink Memorial Scholarship, established by Louise Van Vliet in 2007, supports single mothers pursuing education at accredited institutions. Funded by The Dayton Foundation, a key philanthropic organization in Greater Dayton, Ohio, this scholarship aims to empower women by easing financial burdens associated with higher education. With a focus on promoting equitable opportunities, it is a vital resource for those seeking to improve their lives through education.

The Coordinating Agricultural Development & Innovation (CADI) initiative fosters trade growth in Eastern Europe, the South Caucasus, and Central Asia by removing barriers to U.S. agricultural exports. Funded by the USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service, CADI aims to inject over $622 million into the U.S. economy while preventing potential losses exceeding $50 billion. The awardee will conduct essential research and provide actionable recommendations to support U.S. farmers and enhance trade relationships, ensuring a prosperous agricultural sector.

The Burton E. Stevenson Endowment Scholarship, established by The Columbus Foundation, supports underprivileged children in Ross County, Ohio. Named after the influential librarian and author Burton E. Stevenson, this scholarship aims to alleviate the challenges faced by these children, promoting access to education regardless of race, sex, or religion. Applicants must be graduating seniors from Ross County high schools and plan to attend a public or nonprofit college in the U.S. Awards range from $500 to $6,500.

The Karl A. Bickel and Madira Bickel Journalistic Scholarship Fund Grant supports journalism students at accredited colleges and universities. Established under Karl A. Bickel's Last Will and Testament, it awards approximately $40,000 annually. Eligible organizations must have journalism programs and qualify as 501(c)(3) exempt entities. While there are no geographical restrictions, preference is given to institutions in Florida. The fund is administered by Wells Fargo Bank, ensuring that deserving students receive necessary financial support.

The Batkoski Family Scholarship honors Frank Batkoski, a dedicated sheet metal worker and Army veteran, by supporting students pursuing Career and Technical Education (CTE). Established by the Saginaw Community Foundation, this scholarship aims to inspire hard work and craftsmanship. With awards ranging from $500 to $4,000, it targets high school seniors from Saginaw County who maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and seek to excel in skilled trades. This initiative reflects the growing demand for skilled workers in various trades.

The Cultural Capital Fellowship offers $10,000 grants to Native artists and culture bearers dedicated to community outreach and cultural preservation. This fellowship strengthens the Collective Spirit of First Peoples artists, emphasizing the importance of passing on ancestral knowledge and maintaining cultural sharing. Eligible applicants must have strong ties to their Native community and be committed to sustaining cultural practices. The fellowship aims to support those who promote generosity, wisdom, and integrity within their communities.

The Jennifer Easton Community Spirit Award honors Native artists who have dedicated their lives to sharing cultural knowledge and ancestral gifts. With a grant of $50,000, this award supports artists deeply rooted in their communities, fostering healing and resilience. Nominations are open for practicing artists across various mediums, including music, dance, and storytelling, ensuring the continuation of Indigenous traditions and the enrichment of Native culture.

The Native Performing Arts Fellowship (NPA) supports Native artists in enhancing their craft through grants of up to $10,000. This fellowship prioritizes personal artistic development over project-based funding, encouraging applicants to focus on growth through classes, workshops, and professional mentorship. Eligible candidates must be U.S.-based, 18 years or older, and enrolled members of recognized tribes. The program emphasizes Indigenous values in performing arts, fostering resilience and cultural expression.

The Columbus Hilltop Lions Community Service Scholarship Fund, established by The Columbus Foundation in 1943, aims to support high school seniors from the Hilltop area of Columbus who demonstrate a strong commitment to community service. The scholarship offers $2,000 over two years to eligible candidates who have completed at least 30 hours of volunteer service. This initiative reflects the foundation's long-standing dedication to enhancing the quality of life in central Ohio.

The Solidaire Network's Janisha R. Gabriel Movement Protection Fund supports frontline organizers facing security threats while fostering long-term safety. With $7.9 million allocated, the fund aids groups working towards racial, climate, gender, and reproductive justice. Despite a pause on new applications due to high demand, the fund remains committed to resourcing movement partners and addressing the disproportionate targeting of marginalized leaders amidst rising aggression from right-wing forces.

The Jean Penny Scholarship, established by The Dayton Foundation in 2022, aims to assist students from the Miami Valley in completing their college degrees. This scholarship honors Jean Penny, a Miami University graduate and co-founder of Penny and Penny Advertising, known for her love of education and generous spirit. The foundation, committed to strengthening local communities through philanthropy, emphasizes support for education, workforce development, and equitable opportunities.