Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Rhode Island

Who We Are

The Delaware Community Foundation (DCF) is a nonprofit organization focused on partnering with donors to build opportunity and advance equity in Delaware.

Our mission is to strengthen Delaware by maximizing community-based philanthropy.

Our vision is a Delaware where generosity expands opportunities for all.

Looking for some financial help this school year?

The DCF awarded scholarships totaling a record-breaking $850,000 to 245 students for the 2024-2025 school year.

Section 4: Unique Scholarships requiring a separate application

Scott Kammerer Scholarship

One-time award of $2,000.

The Jason Debus Heigl Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations dedicated to animal welfare in the U.S. It aims to maximize the benefit to animals through education, spay and neuter initiatives, and positive advocacy. The foundation focuses on impactful programs, encouraging grants that align with their mission to end animal overpopulation and cruelty. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while individuals and political lobbying efforts are excluded from funding.

UCHealth Employee Scholarships

With thanks to our generous donors, UCHealth Northern Colorado Foundation is pleased to offer academic scholarships to UCHealth employees in northern Colorado.

Scholarships are available to support permanent and relief employees’ academic pursuits toward an associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or doctorate program. Applicants will be considered for all scholarships for which they are eligible via the completion of a single application.

Awards are typically paid-out in August, 2026. Scholarship award amounts may vary from $500-$2,000.

The AMA Foundation's Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship in Illinois offers $10,000 in tuition assistance to medical students nearing graduation. This prestigious program, established in 1950, has awarded over $61 million in scholarships, emphasizing diversity and support for underrepresented medical students. Eligible applicants must be Illinois residents, involved in organized medicine, and plan to practice in Illinois post-residency. This scholarship continues the AMA Foundation's commitment to advancing medical education and fostering a diverse healthcare workforce.

The Moe Family Fund for Statewide and Local Partners Grant Program, administered by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, offers grants of up to $10,000 to dues-paying members of the National Preservation Partners Network. This program focuses on strengthening preservation organizations and addressing key issues, including advocacy, capacity building, and climate change initiatives. Eligible projects should demonstrate innovation, potential impact, and a clear budget, while adhering to preservation standards and timelines.

The Janosik Family Scholarship, awarded by the Delaware Community Foundation, offers a one-time financial assistance of $2,000 for graduating seniors from specific Eastern Shore High Schools. This program emphasizes citizenship qualities, work ethic, and community service as key selection criteria. In 2024-2025, the foundation distributed a record-breaking $850,000 in scholarships to support students pursuing undergraduate degrees, promoting educational opportunities and equity across Delaware.

The AMA Foundation's Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship provides $10,000 to medical students entering their final year. Since 1950, over $61 million has been awarded to support diverse medical students, particularly those underrepresented in the field. Applicants must show commitment to medicine and patient care, and all students from accredited U.S. medical schools can apply, regardless of AMA membership status.

The AMA Foundation's Physicians of Tomorrow Scholarship, offering $10,000 in tuition assistance, is designed for medical students approaching their final year. This scholarship aims to support underrepresented groups in medicine, including African American, Latine, and Native American students, who are dedicated to serving underserved populations. Since 1950, the AMA Foundation has awarded over $61 million in scholarships, promoting diversity in the medical field.

The NCRG Large Grant, provided by the International Center for Responsible Gaming, supports high-quality research on gambling disorders and responsible gambling. Eligible applicants can request up to $75,000 annually for a maximum of 24 months, totaling $187,500. The grant emphasizes scientific rigor through its advisory board, ensuring only the best proposals receive funding. This initiative aims to advance understanding and treatment of gambling-related issues through peer-reviewed research.

Cherokee Nation Foundation

The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a nonprofit organization serving the Cherokee Nation, a federally recognized tribe of more than 470,000 citizens. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities to Cherokee students so they can reach their full potential. The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Scholarships

Cherokee Nation Foundation offers a diverse range of scholarships to help reverse the trend of rising student debt. Students may receive up to two CNF scholarships per academic year. All opportunities are reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens, unless otherwise noted in the description.

Pathology Laboratory Associates Scholarship

Applicant must be an undergraduate or graduate student majoring in a medical science field with a minimum 3.0 GPA. This is a one-year scholarship reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens residing within the Cherokee Nation jurisdictional area.

Cherokee Nation Foundation

The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a nonprofit organization serving the Cherokee Nation, a federally recognized tribe of more than 470,000 citizens. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities to Cherokee students so they can reach their full potential. The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Scholarships

Cherokee Nation Foundation offers a diverse range of scholarships to help reverse the trend of rising student debt. Students may receive up to two CNF scholarships per academic year. All opportunities are reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens, unless otherwise noted in the description.

Peruzzi Family Scholarship

Applicant must be a graduating high school senior with a minimum 3.0 GPA and enroll full time in a four-year, higher education institution. This is a one-year scholarship reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens residing within the Cherokee Nation jurisdictional area.

Cherokee Nation Foundation

The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a nonprofit organization serving the Cherokee Nation, a federally recognized tribe of more than 470,000 citizens. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities to Cherokee students so they can reach their full potential. The Cherokee Nation Foundation is a tax-exempt charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Scholarships

Cherokee Nation Foundation offers a diverse range of scholarships to help reverse the trend of rising student debt. Students may receive up to two CNF scholarships per academic year. All opportunities are reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens, unless otherwise noted in the description.

Rudisill Scholarship

Applicant must be an undergraduate student with a minimum 3.0 GPA majoring in education and in their full internship. This is a one-year scholarship reserved for Cherokee Nation citizens residing within the Cherokee Nation jurisdictional area.

The Amy Heryford Ousley and James Heryford Ousley Educational Fund, established in 2005, provides scholarships to Klamath and Lake County students attending nonprofit colleges in the U.S. The fund, initially valued at $6.5 million, has awarded over $2.5 million in scholarships. Eligible students must have attended a Klamath County high school for four years, maintain a minimum GPA, and enroll as full-time students. Scholarships can reach up to $3,000 annually for up to five years.

The Alpha Delta Pi Foundation, a private funder, established the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Endowment to support local RMHC Chapters in the U.S. and Canada that lack adequate backing from Alpha Delta Pi collegiate or alumnae associations. Since 1979, over $22 million has been contributed to RMHC, with grants ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 available for houses, renovations, and family room expansions, fostering a strong philanthropic partnership.

The John Ostrom Enders II Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, awards $4,000 to graduating seniors from East Lyme, New London, or Waterford High School. This scholarship supports students with a strong commitment to the creative arts and community service. Since 1983, the Foundation has distributed over $11.9 million in scholarships, helping students pursue higher education and rewarding careers.

The John T. Savage Memorial Scholarship, established in memory of a dedicated agriculturalist and public servant, supports students from Brooklyn, Eastford, Pomfret, Union, and Woodstock. With an award of $1,500, this scholarship aims to assist those pursuing education in politics or agriculture. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has provided over $11.9 million in scholarships, reinforcing its commitment to local education and community development.

The Baskin Family Foundation Grant supports innovative organizations that focus on education and social justice. Established by Samuel and Hadassah Baskin, Sheldon Baskin, and Judy Wise, this grant aims to empower 501(c)(3) organizations to create meaningful change in their communities. By promoting forward-thinking initiatives, the foundation strives to enhance the lives of those it serves and foster equality in access to education.

The Rachael Ray Save Them All Grants support innovative projects aimed at enhancing the lifesaving efforts for cats and dogs in U.S. shelters. Eligible organizations, including public and private shelters and rescue groups, can apply for up to $50,000 to fund initiatives like intake prevention services, medical care for at-risk pets, and shelter enrichment programs. All projects must align with the mission of increasing adoption rates and improving animal welfare within the Best Friends Network.

The Runschke Family Scholarship, established by Gernot and Anne Runschke, supports students from Northwest Ottawa County pursuing vocational or trades programs. It aims to empower local youth by easing educational costs, while emphasizing community involvement and academic potential. Financial need is not a primary consideration, allowing a diverse range of applicants to qualify. This scholarship reflects the Runschke family's commitment to enhancing education and workforce development in their community.

The Laurel High School Alumni Association offers the Helen Kirk Deputy Ellis Scholarship for graduating seniors pursuing higher education. The Delaware Community Foundation, which awarded $850,000 in scholarships for the 2024-2025 school year, supports this initiative. Eligible students must have a minimum GPA of 2.50 and do not need to be alumni members. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for local students, fostering community growth and equity.

Batts Family Scholarship

Graduating senior or graduating early college student who attends public, private, or home school in the primary service area of the Community Foundation.

Zeeland Rotary – Donald Morgan Memorial Scholarship

Graduating senior who resides in the Zeeland Public School District (student does not have to attend Zeeland Public Schools to be eligible).

The Latin Network for the Visual Arts Scholarship, established by Mimi and Gaston Daumy, supports New London County students pursuing degrees in fine arts. With an award amount of approximately $1,600, scholarships are paid directly to colleges by August 1. Preference is given to students with ancestral ties to Romance language countries, including French, Italian, Portuguese, Romanian, and Spanish. This initiative has been part of the Community Foundation's commitment to educational support since 1983.

The Higher Education Challenge Grant Program, administered by the USDA, aims to address critical educational needs at various levels. This program encourages innovative approaches that can be modeled by others, fostering collaboration between universities and the private sector. By enhancing relationships in the science and education community, it seeks to improve program quality and ensure lasting benefits beyond the project duration.

Benjamin H. Van Andel Promise of Excellence Scholarship

This scholarship recognizes and supports exceptionally talented students in any field who exhibit the gifts and passion to be world class leaders, performers, or artists in their area of giftedness.

The Make Your Mark Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, has awarded over $11.9 million since 1983, supporting female and non-binary students in Northeast Connecticut. With awards ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, this scholarship encourages young individuals to pursue their educational goals and seize opportunities for success. Applications are due by August 1, ensuring timely support for students embarking on their academic journeys.

Lilly Endowment Inc. focuses on enriching the religious lives of Christians in the U.S. by supporting diverse congregations and theological education. It aims to foster community development, youth education, and public understanding of religion. The Endowment prioritizes initiatives that improve life quality in Indiana while considering national projects that align with its mission. Notably, it emphasizes nurturing the faith of young people and ensuring all congregations have capable leaders to meet contemporary challenges.