Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Rhode Island

The Saw Island Foundation offers grants focusing on education, science, and health, primarily targeting nonprofit organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area. Their education grants support scholarships and program partnerships, while science and health grants aim to enhance life experiences through improved health outcomes. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, and the foundation emphasizes innovative collaborations that demonstrate measurable impact in their communities.

The AWS Imagine Grant Program aims to empower U.S.-based nonprofit organizations by prioritizing technology in their projects. This initiative offers three award categories: The Pathfinder Award for innovative generative AI projects, the Go Further, Faster Award for cloud-based solutions, and the Momentum to Modernize Award for foundational tech projects. Each category provides significant financial support, AWS promotional credits, and implementation guidance to help nonprofits achieve their mission-driven goals.

In just one application, our Common Scholarship Application provides students access to more than 150 scholarship opportunities with awards ranging from $1,000 to more than $5,000.

In 2025, San Diego Foundation awarded a record-breaking $5.5 million in scholarships to nearly 1,400 students.

William and Patricia Moises Scholarship

Be current college/university students or community college students. Plan to enroll full-time at an accredited community college, four-year college or graduate school in fall.

The James C. Gaither Junior Fellowships at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace offer approximately fourteen 10-12 month fellowships annually to graduating seniors or recent graduates. These fellowships enable Junior Fellows to assist senior associates with research, co-author publications, and engage with policymakers. To be eligible, applicants must be nominated by participating universities and must not have enrolled in graduate studies. This program aims to cultivate a new generation of policy experts committed to global peace.

EZ Start Scholarship

At Ezderm, we believe education drives progress—in healthcare, technology, and every field where curiosity and hard work make a difference. To support the next generation of innovators, we’re proud to offer the EZ Start $1,000 Scholarship. This award is designed to ease some of the financial pressures of college life, giving students the freedom to focus on their goals. Whether it’s tuition, textbooks, housing, or supplies, this scholarship is here to help.

About Community Foundation of Henderson County

• Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.
• Vision: Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

About Grace Poli Scholarship

This scholarship supports a working mother who is a custodial parent and currently enrolled in college.

The Rotary Club of Portsmouth's Helping Professions Grant provides essential financial support to residents of the Seacoast looking to enter or advance in direct care professions. With scholarships and grants of up to $5,000, this initiative aims to address the growing shortage of skilled caregivers, ensuring quality care for families and individuals in the community. Eligible applicants can pursue training in various in-demand roles, enhancing their skills and career prospects.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Individuals, families, organizations and businesses establish funds at the Foundation to carry out their charitable giving now and in the future.

Community Foundation of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public charity, governed by a volunteer board of directors, that has been assisting donors fulfill their philanthropic dreams since 1982.

Our Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.

Scholarships

Community Foundation of Henderson County's Scholarship Program began in 1984. Thanks to the generosity of passionate donors, over 2,000 traditional and non-traditional students have been provided more than $10 million in scholarships to pursue higher education.

Thomas Oliver and Louise Jordan Mulcahy Scholarship

This scholarship is for a graduate of a high school in Henderson County and shall be awarded based on academic standing and financial need. The recipient need not be at the top of his or her class academically nor at the bottom of his or her class financially.

The schlarship is renewable.

The CAA Professional Development Fellowship in Visual Arts offers a $10,000 grant to support MFA students and artists from underrepresented groups. This fellowship aids in job-search expenses or purchasing materials for their studio practice. Recipients also receive a one-year CAA membership and free registration to the Annual Conference. Honorable Mentions will also receive membership and conference registration. This initiative promotes diversity and provides crucial support to emerging artists in their professional journey.

The Samaritan Hospital Medical Staff/Ashland County Physicians Medical School Scholarship, established in 1996, offers two $1,500 scholarships to Ashland County residents pursuing MD or DO degrees at accredited medical schools in Ohio. This initiative reflects gratitude for past medical education and aims to encourage recipients to return to their community for practice. Eligible applicants can reapply for a maximum of four years, fostering a commitment to local healthcare.

The AKC Rescue Grant, offered by the AKC Humane Fund, provides essential financial support to nonprofit organizations focused on canine rescue and welfare. Grants cover significant expenses such as veterinary care, spaying, and essential supplies. Eligible applicants include AKC Parent Clubs and 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to dog rescue. This grant aims to facilitate specific projects and operational needs while ensuring compliance with reporting requirements for awarded funds.

The Kids’ Chance of America: Emergency Grant Program aims to provide essential support to state organizations facing unexpected challenges in funding scholarships for children of injured workers. This initiative ensures that these children can continue their education despite unforeseen financial hardships. Grants can be utilized for scholarships, room, board, and educational fees, emphasizing the importance of maintaining educational support for deserving students during the 2023-2024 academic year.

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 Community Foundation of Henderson County

• Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.
• Vision: Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

About Grace B. Etheredge Scholarship for BRCC Students

To support a (Blue Ridge Community College) BRCC student who is planning to attend a four-year college or university. The scholarship recipient should be a student who plans to attend and has been accepted to attend a four-year college. The student should demonstrate scholastic ability (to include a student gifted in the arts), financial need, character, leadership ability, participation in extracurricular activities and demonstrated ability to complete a college education (in order for the scholarship to be renewed, the student must maintain a GPA of 3.0). Other things being equal, preference should be given to scholastic ability.

This scholarship is renewable for 2 years only. 

The Sullenberger Award for Courage, presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation, recognizes exemplary acts of bravery by graduates of the Academy. This prestigious award honors those who demonstrate outstanding leadership and service, reflecting the core values of integrity, service before self, and excellence. Nominations can be submitted by anyone, and the award celebrates acts that positively impact the Academy and its legacy.

The PEDIGREE Foundation offers Program Development Grants aimed at enhancing dog adoption rates by supporting shelters and rescues across the U.S. Established in 2008, the foundation prioritizes initiatives such as transport, matching, and foster programs. Funding is available to 501(c)(3) designated organizations committed to improving the quality of care for dogs and ultimately increasing their chances of adoption, ensuring that every dog finds a loving home.

The Association of American Educators Foundation offers the National Teacher Scholarship to promote professional excellence among educators. This scholarship provides funding for various professional development opportunities, including conferences and learning materials, with awards up to $500. Available to full-time educators who haven't received AAE funding in the last two years, the scholarship aims to enhance the quality of education across the nation while supporting educators' growth and collaboration.

The Petco Foundation offers grants aimed at animal welfare organizations, focusing on enhancing adoption and medical care initiatives. With a commitment to lifesaving programs, they invest in organizations that demonstrate accountability and significant impact in their communities. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, municipal agencies, and SPCA/humane societies that provide sheltering services. The grant cycle allows for one proposal submission per year, ensuring support for those dedicated to improving the welfare of companion animals.

The Boston Scientific Foundation aims to enhance health and educational opportunities for economically disadvantaged individuals, particularly in STEM fields. Their grant program focuses on K-12 students, requiring at least 50% of participants to be at or below 185% of the poverty line. The foundation seeks evidence-based proposals that can measure improvements in STEM learning, and it prioritizes applications serving communities near Boston Scientific locations, ensuring inclusivity and non-discrimination in service.

About the Chester County Community Foundation

Our Mission

The Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with the causes that matter, so their philanthropy makes a difference now and forever.

Robert & Doris Hanna Scholarship Fund

Mission

The Chester County Community Foundation honors the long and philanthropic lives of Dr. Robert and Doris Hanna.

The NIOSH Small Research Grant Program (R03) aims to enhance the understanding of occupational disease risks and develop strategies for risk reduction. This grant supports research projects that require limited resources, including pilot studies and data analysis, to effectively translate scientific findings into practice. Applicants are urged to articulate the health burdens addressed and the anticipated impacts of their research on workplace safety and health, thereby contributing to the reduction of work-related illnesses and injuries.

VCA Charities offers the Ready for Rescue Grants to support animal welfare organizations in preparing pets for adoption. With a maximum award of $10,000, this program focuses on enhancing the mental and physical well-being of companion animals through various activities, including enrichment and training. Eligible organizations must be registered nonprofits dedicated to animal welfare, adopting out at least 500 pets annually. Applications are accepted twice a year, with deadlines approaching soon.

The Banfield Foundation's Disaster Relief Grants support nonprofit animal welfare organizations and government agencies affected by natural disasters. Since 2015, the foundation has provided resources to help pets in crisis, including medical supplies, food, and temporary shelter. Grants are also available for organizations assisting those impacted by disasters. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and directly help animals and their owners in the U.S., ensuring that pets receive the care they need during emergencies.

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

CAS/Dr. Kim Stacher Scholarship Fund

For a student who resides within the boundaries of any Washington County or Greene County school district, demonstrates financial need, and who plans to enroll in a certificate, associate, or bachelor’s degree program. Qualified applicants who participated in the Headstart program will be given special consideration.

The Louisville Institute's Postdoctoral Fellowship offers early career theological educators a unique opportunity for vocational and professional growth through a two-year placement at ATS-accredited institutions in the U.S. and Canada. With a stipend of $30,000 annually, housing, and insurance benefits, fellows engage in a structured formation program, attend three annual gatherings in Louisville, KY, and receive peer mentorship, enhancing their journey towards becoming effective theological educators.

About Community Foundation of Henderson County

• Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.
• Vision: Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

About Francis H. and Margery T. Escott Scholarship

This scholarship is for a student in need of financial support who is pursuing an education beyond high school. Preference will be given to a student pursuing a career in math or business administration.

This is a renewable scholarship.

The Clayton Jackson McGhie Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 2005, supports students from the Duluth-Superior area. Applicants are encouraged to submit essays or creative works that reflect their understanding of race relations and community service. The fund, initiated by local residents to honor the memory of three African American men lynched in 1920, awards $3,000 for one year, with school selections occurring in the spring.