Best Rochester Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

Underrepresented Cultural Studies Materials Grants

Grant Goals

For individuals and organizations that will work to develop high-quality academic, cultural, and ethnic studies materials for communities that do not have adequate cultural and ethnic studies materials, or who are underrepresented in those materials. The materials must support Minnesota K-12 students from underrepresented communities without a formal writing system that is primarily orally based, including but are not limited to, Hmong, Karen, Somali, and Oromo cultures.

An applicant that receives funding under this grant opportunity must do at least one of the following:

• Amplify arts, culture, and heritage in Minnesota,
• Increase the depth and breadth of Minnesota who will connect with arts, culture, and heritage, and
• Provide opportunities for individuals in Minnesota to enjoy arts and culture for free or at reduced cost to allow access for economically disadvantaged individuals and families in Minnesota to attend Legacy programs.

Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) was created in July 2003 with the merger of the former Minnesota Department of Trade and Economic Development (DTED) and the Minnesota Department of Economic Security (MDES). DEED is the state's principal economic development agency. The Department's programs promote business recruitment, expansion, and retention; international trade; workforce development; and community development.

Commissioned Needs Assessment for the Minnesota Independent Living Network

Procurement Overview and Goals

The Department of Employment and Economic Development (“DEED”), Vocational Rehabilitation Services (“VRS”) requests proposals, on behalf of the Minnesota Statewide Independent Living Council (“MNSILC”) and the Centers for Independent Living (CILs), to conduct a statewide needs assessment for individuals living with disabilities.

Key objective: Determine the level of financial investment required for Centers for Independent Living to effectively and comprehensively meet the needs of individuals with disabilities throughout the state of Minnesota.

St. Ignace Area Community Foundation

The St. Ignace Area Community Foundation (SIACF) was established in 1995 by a group of concerned citizens who recognized a need and found access to some matching grant funds to enhance the initial contributions to the SIACF. Organized as a member of the Community Foundations of the Upper Peninsula (CFUP), Jack Swope, Fred Stearns, and Dr. A.D. (Don) McKinnon secured an anonymous contribution establishing the Education Enhancement Fund and a contribution from the local American Legion Post establishing the American Legion Fund as the initial Funds within SIACF.

Community Service Scholarship

The St. Ignace Community Fund annually awards scholarships assisting students with higher education based largely on acknowledgement of student responsibility, community service, and civic involvement. These Scholarships are made possible through the generosity of donors to the various accounts within the St. Ignace Area Community Fund. Some accounts specifically are awarded to recognize higher education in the areas of special education, teaching, law enforcement, and health care.  

The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region

Empowering generous people with meaningful giving opportunities.

Since 1968, The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region (CFGCR) has been dedicated to improving the quality of life in the Greater Capital Region. We work with — and for — all our neighbors across the community because together, we are stronger.

Ron Jones Memorial Scholarship 

Established to honor the memory of beloved coach and teacher Ron Jones. This is not an athletic award, rather, it was established to recognize students who have demonstrated a devotion to the community of Hoosick Falls through compassion, action, respect and excellence.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is set to announce a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for multi-site investigator-initiated clinical trials. This initiative aims to support a range of clinical trials addressing efficacy and implementation research. The funding mechanism includes a two-phase approach (UG3/UH3), with a total award duration of up to seven years. Investigators are encouraged to prepare proposals that demonstrate scientific rationale and operational plans for these important studies.

The KUH P30 Resource Core Center funding opportunity invites applications for centers aimed at enhancing research in Kidney, Urology, and Hematology diseases. These centers will provide essential resources, including data and tools, to the research community, fostering collaboration through a national network with the Center Coordinating Hub. This initiative by the National Institutes of Health aims to drive innovative research and shared expertise for improved health outcomes.

The KUH U24 Center Coordinating Hub aims to foster collaboration among funded Centers within the NIDDK/KUHN mission. This initiative encourages the development and sharing of vital research resources, including data, reagents, and expertise, with the broader scientific community. By creating a national network, the program enhances research capabilities and promotes innovative solutions in kidney, urology, and hematology diseases.

The NIDDK Multi-Purpose Resource-Related Research Centers Cooperative Agreement (U2C) invites applications to enhance research capabilities in areas such as obesity and diabetes. These centers provide specialized services, including technical support and data coordination, primarily to clients at other institutions lacking necessary expertise. This initiative aims to bolster high-impact research through collaboration and experiential training, addressing critical health challenges aligned with NIDDK's mission.

Robert & Grace Karst R.N. Scholarship

This scholarship was created by Grace Karst RN, who dedicated 44 years to the nursing profession and as a nursing home administrator. Her husband Robert served in the Army, was a White House guard, and eventually retired after 36 years working for the railroad.

This award is presented to a Whitley County student intent upon becoming a Registered Nurse.

Scientific & Regulatory Consultants, Inc. Scholarship

Science plays a vital role in our daily lives and includes a wide range of fields such as physician or veterinary services, nursing, microbiology, biology, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, psychology, music, etc. This scholarship views “scientific” very broadly and invites you to be creative.

Your application will be reviewed based upon the quality, not quantity, of the response to each question.

Applicants may apply every year.

Whitley County Builders’ Association Scholarship

This scholarship is available to a graduating senior who attends Columbia City High School, Churubusco High School, or Whitko High School and is planning to pursue a technical, associate or baccalaureate degree in the building trades field (such as Construction Engineer, Architecture, Building trades, etc.)

Philip & Leta Shriver Scholarship

Philip Shriver grew up in rural South Whitley and graduated from South Whitley High School. Leta Bernice Keel graduated from South Whitley High School in 1940. The two married on April 4, 1943. They made their home on a farm in rural South Whitley.

Leta was employed by Virgil Heinselman’s Locker and G & G Grocery. She was a member of the South Whitley United Methodist Church until she died on June 26, 2005.

A career-long farmer, Phil had a large chicken and egg operation for years, maintaining over 5000 chickens. An advocate for the industry, he was instrumental in stopping an egg carton tax proposed by the State of Ohio. He also worked construction for Morris Darley of South Whitley for many years. Phil was an accomplished welder and metal fabricator, making several crosses that adorn the steeples of area churches.

This scholarship was created as a gift from the estate of Philip Shriver after his death in 2021. It is open to any Whitley County graduating senior who plans to further their education in the field of agriculture or church-related work.

Whitley County 4-H Helping Hands Scholarship

This scholarship will go to a Whitley County senior involved with 4-H. Please contact the 4-H Extension Office for more information. The recipient will be selected during the Whitley County 4-H fair.

Tenney Family Scholarship

Anyone who has pondered how to leave a legacy needs to talk with Georgia Tenney.

It’s no secret that a good chunk of Georgia’s heart is entwined in Whitko Schools. A lifelong Pierceton resident, she spent over 30 years as the Middle School Secretary and is currently serving her third term as an elected school board member. Her Wildcat spirt was shared with her late husband Bob who retired as a custodian for the schools system. Together they cheered on Whitko sports until he could no longer attend games.

When Bob passed in January of this year, a couple of teachers approached Georgia with the idea of establishing a scholarship fund to which the Whitko community can contribute. Georgia put those thoughts into action and contacted the Community Foundation of Whitley County to help her fulfill a dream. It has taken shape in the form of an endowed scholarship that will benefit Whitko grads for generations to come. 

“I have always felt very fortunate in what I have been given and have long wanted to find a way to give back. After Bob passed, I told myself it was time to put a scholarship in place.” In addition to wanting to help local students achieve their educational and career goals, Georgia wanted to share a legacy of charitable giving with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. “I want this to be something of which they can all be proud,” she reflected.

Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland

We are one of more than 750 similar tax-exempt public charities throughout the United States that work to make their community a better place to live. We are a local organization staffed by residents of the community and led by a board of trustees who have an in-depth knowledge of the issues that shape our County.

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

About Our Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Washington County, MD offers more than 100 scholarships for graduating high school students and non-traditional students in continuing education.

Meritus Healthcare Foundation Scholarship Fund

This fund provides scholarships to deserving students from any Washington County public or private high school accepted into a designated health care program.

Orizon Real Estate Ducks Unlimited Scholarship

This scholarship goes to a Whitley County senior pursuing and education in conservation or the environment.

Simon and Donna Dragan Scholarship Fund

Created in 2025 by Simon and Donna Dragan, this scholarship will provide financial support to students enrolled in a trade school to further their construction skills and/or students pursuing a two- or four-year college degree in engineering or construction. 

Simon Dragan is a native of Vurpar, Transylvania, Romania. He came to the United States after escaping Communist Romania in 1969 and held a variety of entry-level positions in the Baltimore area before finding work with Williams-Scotsman, a distributor of modular and mobile buildings. Mr. Dragan worked in various roles at Williams- Scotsman, ultimately serving as Executive Vice President of Operations. In 1993, he purchased Whitley Manufacturing from Williams-Scotsman—a factory located in South Whitley, Indiana—and developed it into one of the nation’s leading manufacturers of modular structures. Under his leadership, Whitley expanded from a single facility into a nationwide enterprise serving diverse markets including education, healthcare, government, retail, and commercial sectors.

A visionary leader in the modular construction industry, Mr. Dragan was inducted into the Modular Building Institute (MBI) Hall of Fame in 2002 in recognition of his lasting contributions to modular design and manufacturing excellence. In July 2025, Mr. Dragan sold Whitley Manufacturing to Sunbelt Modular, headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. Grateful for the opportunities he found in the United States, Mr. Dragan has given back extensively to various nonprofit organizations and charitable causes.

About

Community Foundation of Greenville bridges philanthropy and purpose in Greenville County, helping people make their charitable giving simpler and more powerful for 70 years. We strategically match diverse needs and opportunities in Greenville County with philanthropic resources.

Vision:

Community Foundation of Greenville will be the leading catalyst for developing assets and unlocking potential to meet the needs of an inclusive and equitable community.

Mission:

Community Foundation of Greenville improves the lives of Greenville County residents through strategic philanthropy, community investment, and collaborative leadership.

The Pioneer Scholarship Fund

Purpose:

This Scholarship Fund was established to provide financial assistance for higher education attainment to first generation need-based students residing in Greenville County.

Criteria:

• Applicants must be residents of Greenville County, South Carolina.
• Applicants must be first-generation college students.
• Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 (un-weighted) scale in high school.
• Applicants must be a rising first-year college student.
• Applicants must be accepted to an institution of higher learning prior to applying.
• Applicants must demonstrate financial need (economically disadvantaged).

Preference will be given to African American applicants who meet the outlined criteria, demonstrate financial need, and reside in a single-earner household. However, the final decision will be based on how well applicants meet the overall scholarship requirements, including past academic achievements and future goals.

About

Community Foundation of Greenville bridges philanthropy and purpose in Greenville County, helping people make their charitable giving simpler and more powerful for 70 years. We strategically match diverse needs and opportunities in Greenville County with philanthropic resources.

Vision:

Community Foundation of Greenville will be the leading catalyst for developing assets and unlocking potential to meet the needs of an inclusive and equitable community.

Mission:

Community Foundation of Greenville improves the lives of Greenville County residents through strategic philanthropy, community investment, and collaborative leadership.

Obermier Scholarship Fund in Memory of John N. Obermier, Edith M. Obermier and Mary Belle Obermier

Purpose

Mary Belle Obermier established this scholarship with a gift from her estate in 2012. Her intent was to help academically deserving students who need financial assistance to be able to attend college and to give preference to qualified students who are committed to a career in the United States Navy. The preference for naval students is in recognition of the US Navy careers of her deceased husband, John, and his deceased first wife, Edith, who were both veterans of World War II.

Criteria:

• Applicants must demonstrate financial need (economically disadvantaged).
• Applicants must have a current academic GPA of 3.0 or higher.
• Applicants must be enrolled/accepted to an institution of higher learning prior to applying.
• Applicants must submit one letter of recommendation from a teacher, employer, or clergy.

Preference in the selection process will be given in the following order to qualified students who are:

students who are committed to a career in the United States Navy

residents of Greer, SC

residents of South Carolina and

residents of all other states

The CDC's NCIPC is seeking research proposals to tackle implementation challenges in providing linkage to care services for individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD). This initiative encourages partnerships with public health entities and local healthcare champions to create actionable, evidence-based strategies. The goal is to enhance care access and ensure comprehensive overdose prevention services are available in real-world healthcare settings, thereby improving outcomes for those at risk of opioid overdose.

The Carolyn and Bill Franck Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, provides essential financial support for graduating high school seniors from Henry County or Martinsville pursuing post-secondary education in various fields. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of at least 2.5 and demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA. This scholarship aims to empower deserving students by facilitating their educational aspirations in accredited institutions.

The Jack and Florence Sitrin Scholarship, established by Joyce Malcolm, supports graduating seniors from Utica, NY, pursuing further education in Mathematics. Administered by Utica Dollars for Scholars, this scholarship aims to empower hard-working students who demonstrate a commitment to their education and community. The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties champions this initiative, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder talented individuals from achieving their academic and career goals.

The Leonard J. Capuana Scholarship, awarded by the Leonard J. Capuana Scholarship Fund, supports students from Herkimer and Oneida counties who demonstrate leadership qualities and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. Established by the Leonard J. Capuana West Utica Democratic Club, this scholarship aims to empower graduates planning to attend college or university. Through partnerships with organizations like Utica Dollars for Scholars, it seeks to enhance educational opportunities and foster community growth.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Cosmetology Scholarship

At a very early age in Alabama, Lee Essie Smith was a self-taught musician. After losing her mother as a young teenager, she began putting her God-given musical talent to work as a pianist for several churches. By the time she graduated from high school, she had learned the cosmetology trade and met Charlie McMillan, Jr.

After his wife’s death, Mr. McMillan continued his community service with the Democratic Party, Habitat for Humanity and Mt. Olive Baptist Church as an usher. Although he did not serve very long in the military, Mr. McMillan continues to exemplify the values and physical energy of the “Army Strong” slogan. He is the patriarch of the family – always dapper – and a regular attendee at church services.

About Us

A Vibrant Region with Opportunity for All

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is a community-based social impact investor whose mission is to engage, invest, and lead—working toward a vision of community vibrancy with opportunity for all. Our team of experienced staff and dedicated trustees is committed to boldly leading and supporting transformational community investments. We channel charitable contributions from donors through nonprofit partners that are meeting current community needs and steward community resources responsibly to ensure greater capacity for the future.

No organization has all the answers, but together, with our partners and donors, we have the means and the will to chart a new course—one that will build upon generations of philanthropy and strengthen the fabric of Herkimer and Oneida counties.

Scholarship Opportunities

We help those seeking educational opportunities that will enrich their lives—and enhance our community.

Please note that scholarships administered by the Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties are awarded through a variety of different mechanisms, including by school district selection, public application, or through our community partners, such as Utica Dollars for Scholars.

Joey R. Ventura Tradesman Award

Awarded by Connor Arthur Lynskey Memorial Scholarship Fund

Established in memory of Connor Arthur Lynskey, a special young man who was active in his community, excelled academically, was sports-minded and had an extraordinary way about himself. Connor was a graduate of Holland Patent Central School District in 2017. He aspired to be a physician and was attending premedical school when a drunk driver took his life on August 11, 2018. This award is also given in loving memory of Joey R. Ventura (1992-2021), an accomplished welder and welding instructor who unexpectedly passed in July of 2021 at the age of 28 years old.

Candidates are identified through an open application process.

About the Bertin Family Foundation

Founders: Kim and Jennifer BertinAfter a successful career innovating orthopedic surgical techniques, devices, and implants, Kim and his wife Jennifer feel a deep sense of stewardship to dedicate their resources to helping others. They engage all three generations of the Bertin family in hands-on service and grantmaking decisions, fostering a shared commitment to giving back. Through the foundation’s work, the Bertin family seeks to strengthen communities, support meaningful causes, and inspire future generations to lead with compassion and purpose. 

NOW Grants

A limited number of grants are available for one time projects or programs that emerge outside of the standard review period. These grants are for $5000 or less.

About Us

Midlands Community Foundation (MCF) is here to serve and add value to donors’ philanthropic needs by providing them an opportunity to “invest in the power of community.” It is our goal to identify current and emerging issues, channel resources to address community needs, and help prepare for the future.

MCF Mission

The mission of Midlands Community Foundation is to be a catalyst for lasting impact in Sarpy and Cass counties and to give opportunities to organizations and individuals to pursue their charitable goals.

Scholarships Through MCF

Midlands Community Foundation is committed to the futures of communities in Sarpy and Cass Counties, and across the country. Supporting higher education of students is a direct investment in the futures of these communities.

Alex Shives Scholarship Application Guidelines

The purpose of the Fund is to distribute scholarships to assist qualified recipients in their pursuit of higher education who have graduated or will be a graduating senior from either Papillion LaVista or Papillion LaVista South High School and who have participated on the boys or girls golf team at either high school.

The Fund shall annually distribute one (1) scholarship in the total amount of $2,500, split evenly per semester (i.e., $1,250 Fall Semester, and $1,250 Spring Semester).