Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Rhode Island

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society offers Postdoctoral Fellowships to support innovative research aimed at advancing the understanding and treatment of multiple sclerosis. These fellowships are designed for promising researchers holding advanced degrees, providing funding for training that enhances their ability to conduct impactful studies. The Society prioritizes applications that align with high-priority research questions outlined in its Pathways to Cures Roadmap, emphasizing the importance of diverse methodologies and engagement with underserved populations.

About The Community Foundation of Hancock County

We are a nonprofit, public charity that encourages philanthropy, convenes and leads community initiatives, provides educational support, and supports nonprofit organizations. We are here to assist you in helping others…your friends, your neighbors, as well as some residents you’ve never met but need support.

Our Mission

We provide philanthropic leadership by encouraging giving, learning, community pride, and civic engagement. 

Our Vision

We envision a county in which each person has the opportunity to pursue dreams, enjoy daily life, and invest in meaningful causes. 

Scholarships for Adults & Non-Traditional Students

The Community Foundation of Hancock County offers educational support for Hancock County, Indiana adults who are seeking post-secondary training or schooling to improve their career prospects. There are also some opportunities provided by specific businesses in the area. The application is open year-round until all funds are used.

Helen Roath Memorial Fund

Established by Helen’s husband, Rollo, the fund is intended to help adult students return to the classroom.

The Trans Justice Funding Project (TJFP) provides grants to grassroots trans-led organizations in the U.S. and territories, focusing on those with budgets under $250,000. TJFP supports initiatives that address varying needs within trans communities, including health, legal aid, and mutual aid projects. The organization prioritizes groups led by trans people of color and emphasizes the importance of centering marginalized voices in the fight for trans justice.

The Prader-Willi Syndrome Mini-Fellowship Grant aims to enhance understanding of Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) through clinical proctorships. Offering up to $25,000 USD, this grant supports providers in shadowing experts in PWS while engaging in an academic project. PWSA | USA, dedicated to advancing research since 1983, focuses on high-impact projects that translate biomedical knowledge into effective treatments, ultimately improving the lives of those affected by PWS.

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 FSR Early Career Fellowship Grant supports early-stage researchers in sarcoidosis, fostering skills and knowledge advancement. With $150,000 over two years, this grant aims to enhance medical care and scientific understanding of the disease. Eligible applicants, including international candidates, must present innovative study proposals and demonstrate a commitment to sarcoidosis research. FSR encourages transitions from fellowships to faculty positions, thereby strengthening academic credentials and promoting impactful research contributions.

The ISTAART Grant Program for Conferences and Convenings (IGPCC) Grant, funded by the Alzheimer's Association, aims to support innovative initiatives that enhance research discussions among Professional Interest Areas (PIAs). This funding mechanism encourages collaboration and networking opportunities for ISTAART members, allowing for the organization of educational workshops and conferences. Grants of up to $20,000 are available, with a focus on new projects that haven't received funding in the last 24 months. Applications are reviewed year-round.

American Headache Society

The American Headache Society (AHS) is a professional society of healthcare providers dedicated to the study and treatment of headache and face pain. The Mission of the AHS is to improve the lives of people impacted by migraine and other headache disorders. AHS advocates for those impacted by headache and the headache field, to meet our core objectives. AHS provides educational courses, scientific meetings, a journal, research support, career development opportunities, Special Interest Groups, advocacy training, and a professional community. The AHS strives to meet its objectives while fostering an inclusive sense of belonging and community.

AHS Investigator-Initiated Research Awards

Empowering Innovation in Headache Research

The American Headache Society (AHS) Investigator-Initiated Research Awards support AHS members conducting pre-clinical and clinical research in headache and migraine. With a focus on early-career investigators, the program funds investigator-driven projects that advance scientific understanding and improve patient care.

Projects should contribute to the core goal of the AHS – improving the lives of people impacted by migraine and other headache disorders. 

Funding may be used for:

• Investigator effort (limited to 25% of the budget for PI salary support).
• Experimental costs, data collection, supplies, and statistical analysis.
• Other research-related expenses as appropriately justifie

The Lawrence A. Taylor Research Fund in Petrology and Geochemistry offers financial support to two PhD students demonstrating outstanding research in Petrology and/or Geochemistry. Funded by Dong-Hwa Shin (Dawn) Taylor, this grant aims to alleviate some financial burdens associated with their doctoral studies, fostering excellence in these critical fields. Eligible candidates must be AGU student members currently enrolled in relevant doctoral programs and engaged in applicable research.

The NCB - Botany Research Scholarship Program, offered by Northern California Botanists, targets undergraduate and graduate students pursuing research in botany and plant ecology. Scholarships of $1,500 support independent study, thesis, or dissertation projects within a specific geographic area of Northern California. Eligible applicants may reapply for funding for up to four years. This initiative aims to foster academic careers in botany and promote valuable ecological research.

The AMD Resident Research Grant aims to foster innovative research projects related to migraine, encouraging residents to explore diverse topics that are scientifically sound. Applicants, who must be enrolled in accredited training programs, can collaborate with preceptor investigators and receive support from their institutions. The grant is open to all residents without country restrictions, promoting advancements in migraine understanding and treatment.

The APSF/FAER Mentored Research Training Grant aims to enhance anesthesia patient safety by funding promising anesthesiologists who are within 10 years of their first faculty appointment. This two-year grant, totaling $300,000, supports the development of independent researchers focused on perioperative safety. Recipients must allocate 60% of their time to research and career development. With this initiative, the APSF and FAER seek to cultivate the next generation of safety scientists in anesthesia.

American Headache Society

The American Headache Society (AHS) is a professional society of healthcare providers dedicated to the study and treatment of headache and face pain. The Mission of the AHS is to improve the lives of people impacted by migraine and other headache disorders. AHS advocates for those impacted by headache and the headache field, to meet our core objectives. AHS provides educational courses, scientific meetings, a journal, research support, career development opportunities, Special Interest Groups, advocacy training, and a professional community. The AHS strives to meet its objectives while fostering an inclusive sense of belonging and community.

Headache & Migraine Competitive Grant Program

The Headache & Migraine Competitive Grant Program stands at the forefront of advancing headache medicine by funding groundbreaking quality improvement initiatives. This highly competitive grant program, offered through the collaboration between the American Headache Society and Pfizer, supports projects that have the potential to reshape the field by creating widely applicable tools and driving measurable improvements in patient care. 

Adult Population  RFP (Quality Improvement Solutions for the Diagnosis and Management of Migraine and Headache Disorder)

Seeking projects that drive meaningful impact in headache care through advancements in safety, clinical effectiveness, timely diagnosis, and equitable, patient-centered treatment. Submissions should feature bold, practical solutions in primary care and non-headache specialty settings, supporting adult populations with scalable, real-world innovations. 

The Investigator Initiated Research (IIR) Grants program by the Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation aims to enhance patient safety in anesthesia care through innovative research. Grants up to $200,000 (or $300,000 with waiver) are available for projects addressing critical safety issues, with a focus on studies leading to measurable improvements in outcomes. The program encourages collaboration and creativity, prioritizing research that lacks alternative funding sources, while also supporting junior investigators with mentorship opportunities.

The Quality Improvement Awards, sponsored by the Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation (APSF), aim to enhance patient safety during anesthesia care. This initiative invites current trainees and recent graduates to showcase their quality improvement projects. Winners will receive sponsorship to attend the Stoelting Conference in Massachusetts, where they will present their work. The APSF is committed to promoting a culture of safety and learning in anesthesia, ensuring that no one is harmed by anesthesia care.

The Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives.

Scholarships at ACF

Each year, more than 60 scholarships are available to Alaska students—and it all starts with one simple application. With one login and one application, you’ll be considered for every scholarship you may be eligible for. Whether you’re taking your first step toward college, training for a career, or continuing your education, these scholarships are here to help carry you forward, backed by donors who believe in Alaska’s students and the futures they’re building. 

Gary Martin Swim Scholarship Fund

This is a scholarship established in memory of Gary Eugene Martin, and is open to Alaska students entering or enrolled in colleges or trade schools who have been involved in competitive swimming at the high school level in Alaska. 

The Gary Martin Swim Scholarship Fund was established with The Alaska Community Foundation in 2015. Gary Eugene Martin was a longtime resident of Soldotna, Alaska who lifted others up with his positivity and encouraging nature. His list of volunteer activities is long and reflects how much he cared about those he shared a community with. Gary was known to his family as someone who loved animals and spoiled his grandchildren. He showed his passion for helping youth through his involvement in competitive swimming. For years, he served as an official coach and mentor to many young swimmers.

His legacy carries on today through the awarding of the Gary Martin Swim Scholarship. 

EmpowHer Grants, offered by the Boundless Futures Foundation, provide essential financial support and resources to female entrepreneurs in the U.S. who are committed to creating social impact through their businesses. Grants, which can go up to $25,000, are available to those with businesses that are less than three years old and demonstrate revenue generation. This initiative aims to empower women by reducing barriers and fostering a supportive entrepreneurial community.

The National Scleroderma Foundation's New Investigator Grant aims to support emerging researchers dedicated to scleroderma studies. This three-year grant, totaling $200,000, encourages applicants with doctoral degrees and postdoctoral experience. Eligible candidates are invited to submit proposals that may lead to further research funding. The grant emphasizes innovative research approaches while providing essential financial support for early-career investigators. Note that the grant does not cover certain costs, ensuring focused investment in research advancement.

The Jonathan Larson Grants provide essential support to emerging musical theatre artists, helping composers, lyricists, and librettists further their creative endeavors. Established in memory of Jonathan Larson, creator of the iconic musical "Rent," these grants empower artists to create impactful work that resonates with contemporary culture. The program, sustained by the American Theatre Wing and the Larson Family, encourages professional growth and artistic exploration without the limitations of specific projects.

The AMA Foundation Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship: Alliance Grassroots provides $10,000 in tuition assistance to medical students entering their final year. With a commitment to supporting diversity in medicine, this scholarship focuses on candidates interested in women's and children's health issues. Open to all medical students, it recognizes volunteerism and research in health-related fields. Since 1950, the AMA Foundation has awarded over $61 million in scholarships, fostering a diverse cohort of future healthcare professionals.

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.

Napa Valley Community Foundation

There are more than 800 Community Foundations in the US, each devoted to a specific region. We operate independently, with a common goal in mind: to be a platform for local people who want to pay it forward. To deliver resources to effective charitable programs. And to make our communities stronger and more successful by doing these two things.

Among our peers, Napa Valley Community Foundation ranks first on several key measures of donor satisfaction and impact, according to a recent donor survey conducted by the Center for Effective Philanthropy. Our donors say that we deeply understand their interests, and deeply understand the needs of Napa Valley. That, in a nutshell, is our job.

Committed Scholarship

The Napa Valley Community Foundation Committed Scholarship benefits one graduating senior who attends a high school in Napa County, is the first person in their family to attend college, and who grew up in a household where English was not the first language spoken. Applicants must have a strong academic record coupled with demonstrated leadership qualities, extra-curricular activities, and heavy involvement in the community. They must also have a desire and a plan to return to the Napa Valley area to give back to the community after graduation. Recipients must attend a four-year college/university and will receive funding for up to four years of undergraduate study.

Scholarship award amount is renewable for up to four years. It will be based upon overall financial aid already received and any remaining funding gaps.

The Towsley Foundation Grants support initiatives that enhance community welfare and sustainability, focusing on diverse fields such as education, health, and the arts within Michigan. With a commitment to effective philanthropy, the foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate creativity and strategic impact. Eligible organizations must operate in Michigan and adhere to specific funding guidelines, fostering financial sustainability. Grants are allocated based on project merit and organizational capacity, reinforcing the foundation's mission to improve lives through thoughtful partnerships.

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.

Napa Valley Community Foundation

There are more than 800 Community Foundations in the US, each devoted to a specific region. We operate independently, with a common goal in mind: to be a platform for local people who want to pay it forward. To deliver resources to effective charitable programs. And to make our communities stronger and more successful by doing these two things.

Among our peers, Napa Valley Community Foundation ranks first on several key measures of donor satisfaction and impact, according to a recent donor survey conducted by the Center for Effective Philanthropy. Our donors say that we deeply understand their interests, and deeply understand the needs of Napa Valley. That, in a nutshell, is our job.

Amy & Hank Stockton Scholarship

The Amy and Hank Stockton Scholarship benefits graduating high school seniors who attend public high schools in Napa County and will be pursuing post-secondary education in a trade, technical or vocational school, community college, or four-year college/university. Previous recipients of the scholarship are eligible to reapply; scholarship funding may not exceed 4 years of support.

Manuel And Fillie Garcia Hispanic Scholarship

The Manuel & Fillie Garcia Hispanic Scholarship was established as a permanent fund of Taos Community Foundation in 2011.

The award is available to graduating seniors in Taos and western Colfax counties with preference to Hispanic students pursuing advancement of higher education. The scholarship is available to those applying to 4 year colleges and universities as well as 2 year vocational/trade schools.

The award amount will be determined at the time of committee review. This award is typically renewable for up to three years if a 2.5 GPA is maintained and all required paperwork is returned in accordance with the Scholarship Agreement.

The Anna B. Glauser Trust Grants provide financial support to organizations aiding physically handicapped individuals, particularly blind residents in Delaware County, PA. Established in memory of Willis K. Glauser, the trust awards 1-2 grants annually, ranging from $2,500 to $5,000. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified, while funding for salaries is typically excluded. This initiative reflects Anna Glauser's lifelong commitment to assisting the visually impaired community.