Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Rhode Island

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Margaret and Dr. Paul Borton Music Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Dr. Paul Borton, who established the Margaret and Dr. Paul Borton Music Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County in memory of his wife, Margaret Borton. Margaret "Maggie" Borton arrived in Muskegon in the late 40s, bringing with her the rich heritage and culture of South Carolina. Not having had the opportunity in her youth to pursue music, she sought ways to include it in her daily life, enjoying the many concerts and festivals available in our area. Maggie always admired the talented youth she met in Muskegon's musical community. Knowing of her dream, her love for people and her passion for music, Maggie's husband, Paul established the Margaret Borton Music Scholarship Fund in her memory to provide scholarship assistance to Muskegon County students who will major in music in college.

The Tribal Self-Governance Planning and Negotiation Cooperative Agreements are designed to assist tribes in planning and preparing to manage healthcare services for their members through the Tribal Self Governance Program. The Indian Health Service will provide three awards under this initiative, aiming to empower tribal organizations in their efforts to enhance healthcare delivery and self-determination.

The Parsons Family Scholarship for LGBTQ+ Youth and Allies, established by the Parsons family, supports Maine graduating high school seniors of any gender identity or sexual orientation. The scholarship awards $2,000 and is aimed at LGBTQ+ students and their allies pursuing post-secondary education at accredited institutions. Recipients will be notified by the selection committee in late May, with funds disbursed in December for the spring semester. This initiative reflects a commitment to inclusivity and support for diverse youth.

The Dana Marie Underdonk Bryant Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Central Kentucky Community Foundation, aims to support female graduating seniors from Hardin County high schools. Eligible applicants must plan to pursue a college degree in marketing or business, or have participated in high school tennis, with a minimum GPA of 3.5. This scholarship not only provides financial assistance but also encourages leadership and community involvement among young women.

The Helen Elbert Scholarship, administered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors planning to major in music, particularly piano. Established in 1989, the Foundation has a strong commitment to education and community support. This scholarship is not based on financial need and will provide one year of assistance to students attending any college in the United States. It aims to empower young musicians to pursue their educational dreams.

The Michael and Carolyn Stelman Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, supports students pursuing education in Culinary Arts, Music, or Photography. With annual awards of up to $1,250, this scholarship aims to empower high school graduates from Southern Arizona with a GPA of 2.5 or higher, enabling them to achieve their educational dreams and contribute as future leaders in the community.

The Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes honors 25 exceptional young leaders aged 8 to 18 from diverse backgrounds across the U.S. and Canada. Each winner receives $10,000 for education or service projects, a personalized plaque, and media opportunities. Selection focuses on impactful service activities primarily initiated by the young hero, demonstrating qualities of courage, generosity, and moral purpose. This prize encourages youth to inspire others and create positive change in their communities.

ASPCA PRO

ASPCApro.org provides tools and resources for animal welfare professionals, veterinary personnel and volunteers. We take a progressive approach to helping the country's at-risk animals, promoting cutting edge research to advance the field.

ASPCA Research Grants

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) research grants fund high-quality research with a clear potential to benefit animals, either directly or through effecting systems-level change. Proposals to extend existing studies, focused on other disciplines, will also be considered if they can clearly demonstrate substantial potential benefit to animal welfare.

This year we are soliciting proposals in the following six research areas:

• Access to Veterinary Care (AVC) Research
• Applied Behavior Research
• Cruelty Research
• Farm Animal Welfare Research
• Psychological Trauma Research
• Shelter Research

Proposals focused on evaluating the effectiveness of a program or service must demonstrate methodological rigor and a clear plan to produce generalizable scientific knowledge. Please view eligibility information for specific projects from the research area you are interested in. 

Psychological Trauma Research

Proposals related to developing and validating novel approaches to the objective documentation of animal cruelty and neglect in the absence of physical trauma (i.e., documenting psychological trauma) in dogs. Proposals are encouraged from any relevant discipline (e.g., physiology, psychology, ethology). Of particular interest is research that focuses on objective measures, including biomarkers and quantitative behavioral phenotyping.

The Rodgers Family Agricultural Scholarship, managed by the Northern Piedmont Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Fauquier County pursuing degrees in agricultural fields at accredited institutions. Candidates must demonstrate financial need, initiative, motivation, and leadership. This scholarship not only offers financial assistance but also presents opportunities for renewal, fostering academic growth and community involvement among students dedicated to agriculture in the region.

The Bausch Foundation, established by Bausch Health Companies Inc., supports global charitable initiatives focused on disease prevention, improving patient outcomes, and education related to its core businesses. The Foundation also aids disaster recovery efforts and assists underserved communities. Applications for funding are accepted continuously, with quarterly reviews, ensuring timely support for impactful projects. All submissions must be unsolicited, and decisions by the Advisory Committee are final, fostering a transparent giving process.

The Advancing Equity Through Oral Health Funds, initiated by CareQuest Institute, seeks to transform oral health systems by supporting projects that dismantle disparities faced by marginalized communities. The program encourages organizations to propose innovative solutions that enhance access to dental care, engage community voices, and promote policies that ensure equitable health outcomes for all. This initiative aims to create a more integrated and accessible healthcare system, particularly for historically underserved populations.

The Military-Civilian Charitable Foundation Scholarship aims to support children of active or retired military personnel in the San Antonio area by providing scholarships for higher education. Established in 1954, this foundation integrates military and civilian communities, emphasizing the importance of education for military families facing unique challenges. Scholarships are available to high school seniors across all military branches, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to fostering patriotism and community support.

The Music Man Foundation invites eligible organizations to apply for Advocacy and Research Grants aimed at supporting systemic change in the arts sector. Organizations must demonstrate their impact on music-related systems, showcase their priorities in the field, and outline their achievements. Grants will assist with research, advocacy training, and cross-sector initiatives to enhance community vitality and promote sustainable solutions, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to fostering positive arts engagement.

Ruth E. Owen Scholarship Fund

Russ Owen established the Ruth E. Owen Scholarship Fund in memory of his beloved wife. He met Ruthie during World War II when he was home on leave. The couple carried on a long-distance romance throughout the war. Ruthie lived in Pittsburgh and worked as a secretary and a professional singer. She performed on the Rege Cordic and Bill Cullen Show on WWSW and with a group called the Melody Guild.

Ruthie trained in New York for the Metropolitan Opera and considered moving there but, as fate would have it, she remained in Pittsburgh and married her beloved Russell. Russ’ hope for this scholarship is that students who are pursuing further education in music can achieve their dream.

The Gardner, Prudence E. Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Noble County Community Foundation, supports West Noble High School seniors with a GPA between 3.00 and 3.50. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate a strong work ethic through part-time employment or active participation in extracurricular activities. This scholarship aims to encourage students to excel academically while contributing positively to their communities, furthering the foundation's mission of fostering positive change in Noble County.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Virginia Scott Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Ludington Area School District, which established the Virginia Scott Memorial Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

This scholarship is presented to a graduating senior of Ludington High School with a cumulative grade point average of 2.8 or higher on a 4-point scale. The recipient must pursue a degree or certification at any two or four-year accredited college, university, or vocational/technical school.

The Goble, Eldon and Frances Agriculture/Business Scholarship offers a $500 award to graduating seniors from Gage County, managed by the Beatrice Educational Foundation. Established in 1987, the foundation provides financial support to enhance educational opportunities in the Beatrice School District. Candidates are evaluated based on academic goals, achievements, and community involvement. Applications are available in the Student Services Office and online at www.beatricepublicschools.org, promoting academic excellence and civic engagement.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Bethany Lutheran Church Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Bethany Lutheran Church Congregational Council, which established the Bethany Lutheran Church Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

In the 1870s, Danish immigrants to the Ludington area met to pursue a dream to worship God, provide Christian education, and support one another through fellowship. In 1878 they established the Danish Evangelical Lutheran Church, which later became Bethany Lutheran Church. Danish language worship services were held into the 1940s. A mural depicting Bethany's longest-serving pastor, The Reverend John Christensen, can be viewed from the parking lot west of the James Street Plaza. The congregation continued to worship and serve the community from its 1101 South Madison location until 2018 when, due to declining membership and financial support, it sold the church building to the Salvation Army and accepted the invitation of Grace Episcopal Church to share its building. Bethany held worship services there until March of 2019. As a memorial to all those who were a part of Bethany's ministry and in support of young people desiring post-high school education, Bethany's last act of service was establishing an endowed scholarship fund through the Community Foundation for Mason County.

The Gage County Agricultural Society Scholarship, managed by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, awards four $500 scholarships to graduating seniors from Beatrice High School. Candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and have participated in Gage County Agriculture Society events. The foundation, established in 1987, supports educational opportunities and does not consider economic need in its selection process. Applications are available through local resources and online.

The Music Performance Trust Fund (MPTF) is a nonprofit organization established in 1948, dedicated to enhancing public appreciation of music. It offers free, live music programs across the United States and Canada, ensuring access to quality musical experiences for diverse communities. Funded by royalties from major record labels, the MPTF collaborates with local arts organizations to promote music education and performance, enriching lives through the power of music at no cost to attendees.

The Holy Cross Lutheran Church Matt 25 Scholarship, funded by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers a $500 award to one deserving student from Beatrice High School. Established to support education, this needs-based scholarship is applicable for various higher education institutions, including colleges and trade schools. Applications can be obtained from the Student Services Office or the foundation's website. The foundation has been active since 1987, promoting academic excellence and community involvement.

The Jespen, Peter W. Scholarships, managed by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offer two $2,150 scholarships to graduating seniors from Beatrice High School. These scholarships support students pursuing higher education, including vocational training. Recipients are selected based on academic performance, extracurricular involvement, character, and financial need, with a FAFSA Student Aid Report required for need-based consideration. The Foundation has provided substantial financial support to local students since its establishment in 1987.

The ON Semiconductor STEAM Education Grant Program aims to support educational institutions and charitable organizations that promote STEAM education for underserved youth. Through initiatives like employee giving and community revitalization, the program seeks to inspire the next generation of innovators. Eligible organizations must operate within onsemi's communities, align with its values, and adhere to local laws. The foundation prioritizes previous grantees who have demonstrated positive outcomes in their educational efforts.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Raymond J. Pontoni Entrepreneur Scholarship Fund

The fund was established in Honor of the memory of Raymond J. Pontoni, past CEO of Nottawa Gardens Corporation and Athens Community Leader to assist Athens graduating seniors and adults seeking to further their education and business needs, through training programs in the skilled trades, associate degrees, apprenticeships, or certificate programs, and to help aid the creation and development of their Entrepreneural Goals and economic ventures.

The Ultra-Rare Gene-based Therapy (URGenT) Network Resource Access program provides critical support to researchers by offering access to contract research organizations and subject matter experts. This funding opportunity aims to facilitate nonclinical therapeutic development efforts, helping investigators navigate the complexities of manufacturing and planning. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time, with optional Letters of Intent recommended 30 days prior to the proposal deadline.

The Music Family Scholarship, funded by the Music Performance Trust Fund, aims to enhance music appreciation and accessibility for children and communities. Established in 1948, the MPTF provides free live music programs across the U.S. and Canada, focusing on underserved populations. Eligible applicants must have a parent in good standing with a Local AFM and be enrolled in higher education for fall 2025. This scholarship encourages artistic expression and community unity through music, fostering enriching experiences for all.

About Patient Advocate Foundation

Patient Advocate Foundation is the nation’s most comprehensive nonprofit dedicated to helping patients navigate, access, and afford the care they need—while improving the healthcare system for all.

Who we are and our impact

Patient Advocate Foundation provides financial assistance to help patients afford treatment and cost of living needs, personalized case management to navigate complex healthcare and social needs challenges, and a wide array of resources to empower people to take charge of their health. Since our founding in 1996—and joining forces with the PAN Foundation in 2026—we have helped 3.8 million patients navigate and access care, granted over $7 billion in financial assistance, served 350,000 people through personalized case management and elevated the patient’s voice to drive improvements in the healthcare system.

Amyloidosis

Help with healthcare costs for amyloidosis

This TotalAssist fund helps you pay for out-of-pocket healthcare costs, including medication copays, coinsurance, and deductibles, health insurance premiums, and other expenses.

About the disease

Amyloidosis is characterized by a build-up in amyloid protein in specific organs or throughout the body. It is a rare disease that affects multiple systems. Subtypes include hereditary amyloidosis, light chain amyloidosis (AL amyloidosis), and amyloid A (AA) amyloidosis (secondary amyloidosis).