Best Santa Cruz County Grants for Nonprofits in California

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

The Davis Fire Appreciation Scholarship

The Davis Fire Appreciation Scholarship honors the brave firefighters and law enforcement officers who safeguarded our Nevada communities by supporting their family members' pursuit of higher education.

The Davis Fire Appreciation Scholarship was established by the residents of the Montreux, Arrowcreek, Saddlehorn, and surrounding communities to demonstrate deep appreciation for the firefighters and law enforcement officers who worked tirelessly to hold the fire line during the September 2024 Davis Fire and saved their homes.

The Davis Fire Appreciation Family Scholarships are offered to family members of Nevada firefighters and/or family members of law enforcement who are seeking a 2- or 4-year degree, trade school, or vocational certificate. This is a one-time award of $3,000.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Otto A. Huth Scholarship Fund

Aging out of foster care or child welfare custody in Nevada?

The Otto A. Huth Scholarship Fund is established to provide support for youth who are about to age out of foster care or have already aged out of foster care in the state of Nevada who are seeking support for post-high school education (university, community college, business school, and trade school) at institutions located within the United States. Applicants must apply before their 21st birthday.

Applicants may apply for a scholarship for a maximum of 5 years for up to $40,000 in total. Annual scholarship awards are not to exceed $10,000. Scholarship awards may cover tuition, on-campus room & board, books, student health insurance, on-campus meal plans, and other education-related expenses.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Nico Goon Compassionate Scholar Award

The Nico Goon Compassionate Scholar Award is designed to support graduating high school seniors from Northern Nevada who are planning to attend a 4-year university to complete their degree. One scholarship of $2,500 will be awarded each year to a student who the committee feels exemplifies the qualities that Nico possessed. Consciously, Nico had a love for learning and pursuit of knowledge that was inspiring to his classmates and teachers. Subconsciously, Nico walked through life with a kindness and compassion that impacted the lives of others. Together, these qualities can have a lasting impact on the world around you. This is a one-time award. 

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Foster Children Education Scholarship

The Foster Children Education Foundation Scholarship supports youth who are, or have been, in foster care in the State of Nevada. This includes: a) youth who were never legally adopted or expected to be legally adopted, b) youth who were adopted at or after age 13, and c) youth who were placed with foster families outside the State of Nevada.

This scholarship has the potential to be renewed with reapplication.

The Bob Zylstra STEM Scholarship, offered by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports undergraduate students who identify as female or as students of color from West Michigan. This scholarship aims to empower students pursuing STEM majors by removing barriers to education and fostering diversity in these fields. Each year, the foundation awards scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 to help students achieve their academic and career aspirations.

The Black Men Building Resources Scholarship, offered by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports African-American undergraduates from Kent County. This scholarship aims to empower students pursuing college or career training by removing barriers to academic success. With awards ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, the program prioritizes applicants with high financial need, ensuring that opportunities are accessible to those who strive for educational advancement in West Michigan.

The Audrey L. Wright Scholarship, offered by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports undergraduate students who are long-term residents of Kent County. This scholarship is aimed at those pursuing education or language studies and requires a minimum GPA of 3.0. By removing barriers to academic success, it empowers local students to achieve their educational ambitions and contributes to a thriving and inclusive community in West Michigan.

The Armando "Frank" Quaglia Veteran's Scholarship, offered by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports full-time graduate or upper-level undergraduate students from Kent or Ionia County pursuing healthcare or engineering degrees. With a minimum 3.0 GPA, preference is given to veterans and their families. This scholarship aims to eliminate barriers to education, fostering academic success and connecting students to opportunities in West Michigan's inclusive community.

The Altrusa International of Grand Rapids Scholarship, supported by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, aims to empower students from Allegan, Kent, Ionia, Muskegon, Montcalm, and Ottawa Counties. This scholarship is intended for individuals returning to college or entering after a two-year hiatus, emphasizing inclusivity and support for those with financial need. Recipients can benefit from awards ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, which are directly applied to educational costs, enhancing opportunities for academic and career advancement.

The Institutional Impact Grants by Wake Forest University aim to support U.S. colleges and universities in fostering moral, civic, and intellectual character among their community members. In 2026, these grants will empower institutions committed to character development for faculty, staff, and students, promoting a holistic educational environment. This initiative underscores the importance of character in education, aligning with the university's mission to cultivate ethical leaders.

The Wake Forest Capacity Building Grant, part of the Educating Character Initiative, aims to enhance character education in U.S. higher education institutions. Established in 2023 with support from Lilly Endowment Inc., the initiative has already provided $35 million in grants to 146 institutions. In 2026, new grants will be awarded to colleges and universities focused on fostering moral, civic, and intellectual character among their faculty, staff, and students.

The Exploring Christian Practices Initiative by Lilly Endowment aims to enhance access to settings that enable diverse individuals to engage in Christian practices. This initiative seeks to address spiritual interests, foster community connections, and support the growth of faith. By multiplying opportunities for exploration, it encourages meaningful participation in religious life and nurtures a deeper understanding of Christian traditions.

Who We Are

Founded in 1996, the Community Foundation of South Georgia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to making South Georgia a better place to live through effective philanthropy. We help individuals, families, nonprofit organizations and businesses establish and manage charitable funds that carry out their philanthropic interests. Serving a geographic area of 35 counties in South Georgia, we facilitate our donors’ charitable plans and goals by creating custom designed funds that meet their specific interests and ensure solid financial management and administration for each fund. 

Mary Smith Gay Scholarship

For a graduating senior from a public high school located in Albany, GA or a member of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church located in Albany, GA. All applicants must have a minimum high school GPA of 2.50. The award is based on Academics, Leadership Qualities, Extracurricular School Activities, Character, Community Service, Personal Integrity, and Financial Need. Special consideration will be given to members of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church. This scholarship is given by the family of Caroline Cobey Goodwin, in loving memory of Ms. Mary Smith Gay. 

Who We Are

Founded in 1996, the Community Foundation of South Georgia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to making South Georgia a better place to live through effective philanthropy. We help individuals, families, nonprofit organizations and businesses establish and manage charitable funds that carry out their philanthropic interests. Serving a geographic area of 35 counties in South Georgia, we facilitate our donors’ charitable plans and goals by creating custom designed funds that meet their specific interests and ensure solid financial management and administration for each fund. 

Geraldine Grant Memorial Scholarship

The award is based on Academics, Leadership Qualities, Extracurricular School Activities, Community Service and Financial Need. Special consideration will be given to applicants from an underrepresented minority population as well as applicants who intend to major in Business, Accounting, Finance, Management or another business-related field of study. 

Who We Are

Founded in 1996, the Community Foundation of South Georgia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to making South Georgia a better place to live through effective philanthropy. We help individuals, families, nonprofit organizations and businesses establish and manage charitable funds that carry out their philanthropic interests. Serving a geographic area of 35 counties in South Georgia, we facilitate our donors’ charitable plans and goals by creating custom designed funds that meet their specific interests and ensure solid financial management and administration for each fund.

James D. Eunice Legacy Scholarship

For graduating seniors from a high school located in South Georgia within the service area of CFSGA who have attained at least a 2.5 GPA in high school. Awards are based on academics, leadership qualities, extracurricular school activities, character, community service and personal integrity, and financial need.

Who We Are

Founded in 1996, the Community Foundation of South Georgia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to making South Georgia a better place to live through effective philanthropy. We help individuals, families, nonprofit organizations and businesses establish and manage charitable funds that carry out their philanthropic interests. Serving a geographic area of 35 counties in South Georgia, we facilitate our donors’ charitable plans and goals by creating custom designed funds that meet their specific interests and ensure solid financial management and administration for each fund. 

Hosea Hall & Lilly Eason Vann Scholarship

For a graduating senior of a high school located in Thomas County, Georgia who has attained at least a 3.0 GPA in high school. The award is based on Academics, Financial Need, Leadership Qualities, Extracurricular Activities and Community Service.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Stephen A. Johnston Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a college sophomore, junior, or senior or a graduate student who is majoring in plant pathology or has demonstrated an interest in vegetable crop production or a related field. Preference will be given to a student who can demonstrate evidence of an association with the Rutgers University Agricultural Research and Extension Center.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Vincent P. Arabia Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior or undergraduate student who is blind/visually impaired or has a permanent physical disability that impedes their mobility. The opportunity is open statewide, with preference given to South Jersey students (particular emphasis on Burlington County). Students will be evaluated on academic performance and unmet financial need.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Siegel Family Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior or recent graduate (1-2 years out of high school) from the greater Newark area. Preference will be given to students who have been actively involved with GlassRoots, Inc., or Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson & Union Counties. Students will be evaluated on academic performance (2.5 GPA or better), extracurricular activities, community service, work (paid or unpaid), and unmet financial need.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Peter Eisen Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior who has experienced the loss of a biological parent before the age of 18. Students must have achieved a cumulative 3.0 GPA or better. Applicants will be evaluated on academic performance, extracurricular activities, community service, work (paid or unpaid), and unmet financial need

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Kids In Business Merit Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to individuals who are or have been associated with the Kids In Business program (Newark) who wish to further their education at an accredited educational institution.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Keith Hightower Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a college-bound, graduating high school senior from Warren, Morris, Sussex, or Somerset counties. Applicants must have participated in a science or math competition or in independent scientific research during high school. 

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Gordon Lymbery Scholarship

Candidates for the Gordon Lymbery, PhD Memorial Scholarship must have graduated from a Northern Nevada high school, or received a GED, and must be seeking an Associate’s, Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.

Candidates for the Gordon Lymbery, PhD Memorial Scholarship must have graduated from a Northern Nevada high school, or received a GED, and must be seeking an Associate’s degree, Bachelor’s degree, or Master’s degree. Awards for up to $1,000 are available for graduates of any Northern Nevada high school. Please see the Lymbery Certification Scholarship if you are seeking a certificate. This is a one-time award but has the potential to be renewed with reapplication.

DREAMS Grant Program

DREAMS For Duchenne

Launched in 2023, Entrada DREAMS is a competitive annual grant program designed to fund efforts within the Duchenne muscular dystrophy community to better identify, understand and reach those who are currently underrepresented and underserved.

DREAMS and Belonging

Entrada is building a company culture where everyone can belong, contribute and grow. In the same way, we are committed to working toward a healthcare system that is equitable and inclusive. Entrada DREAMS is part of our commitment to support Duchenne-focused non-profit organizations in their efforts to address disparities in healthcare and to better serve all people living with Duchenne.

DREAMS and Impact

DREAMS has funded transformative projects that bridge healthcare disparities and strengthen community connections. Keep reading to learn more about past recipients and their projects.

This year, two nonprofit organizations will each receive a $50,000 USD grant to fund projects that advance equity, accessibility and inclusion for individuals with Duchenne. Entrada will award one grant to a U.S.-based nonprofit and another to a nonprofit in the UK or EU.

Dr. John and Mary Martin Scholarship Fund

This fund was established to honor Dr. Martin and Mrs. Martin’s service as educators. The fund shall provide scholarship assistance to support the college-going ambitions of graduating seniors of Grandview High School who aspire to teaching careers in the field of pre-K through grade 12 education. Preference shall be given to students who are underrepresented in their area of focus within the education field; for example, males of color in pre-school or elementary school.

Award

• $1,000

Kieth and Serena Cockrell Scholarship

This program was established in honor of long-time HBCU and UNCF supporters Kieth and Serena Cockrell, who are passionate about education and paving the way for future leaders. Eligible applicants must be permanent residents of North Carolina and a high school senior graduating from any public, private, or charter high school in Mecklenburg County, Union County, or Cabarrus County during this current Spring 2026 term.

Renewable Up to $30,000 Over a Four (4) Year Period. Up to $7,500 Per School Year.

NCCF awards more than $530,000 in scholarships a year. Scholarships and awards are made possible by NCCF Funds, established by generous individuals and families. 

Valerie Rose Pinnette Memorial Scholarship Fund

Award Average:

• $1350

Established by Ed and Rosalie Pinnette in memory of their daughter, Valerie. This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school student who resides in and attends school in NCCF's 20-town service area. Preference is given to students pursuing a degree in environmental sciences.