Best Social Science & Humanities Grants

Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education provides leadership, oversight, funding, support, and accountability for the Commonwealth's approximately 400 school districts that educate close to 1 million public school children each year. We also oversees programs that serve 20,000 adult learners each year.

Civics Teaching and Learning

The purpose of this competitive grant program is to support teaching and learning related to civics, as required by Chapter 296 of the Acts of 2018 and emphasized in the 2018 History and Social Science Framework.

This grant supports LEAs to develop and/or select curriculum materials, implement professional development, and design other enriching learning experiences intended to further students' civic knowledge, skills and dispositions. LEAs may propose to collaborate with vendors to support this work. Proposals may include interdisciplinary elements or other opportunities for civic learning beyond the history/social science classroom.

In addition, the grant supports implementation of grade 8 and high school civics projects, the hosting of local civics project showcases, participation in the Massachusetts Civics Project Showcases, and other enrichment activities focused on meaningful civic learning.

For details about the civics projects and other civics instructional information, please visit Civics.

This grant is structured as a two-year program. LEAs awarded funding in FY27 (Year 1) and contingent upon available funds and satisfactory progress awardees may apply only for continuation funding in FY28 (Year 2) to support the next phase of their projects. Continuation funding is not guaranteed. Contingent upon available funds, a new cohort of LEAs may be selected through the FY28 competitive RFP process. FY27 awardees will not be eligible to apply under the new FY28 competitive RFP.

Priorities

DESE seeks to fund civics teaching and learning initiatives that exemplify:

• Equity. Grant-funded projects should increase all students' access to high-quality civics education experiences and work to address historical inequities where they exist. In addition, projects should provide students with culturally and linguistically sustaining learning experiences that value and affirm their identities and linguistic resources, center student and community agency, and develop students' critical perspectives. Supports for multilingual learners should be developed in alignment with the 2020 WIDA English Language Development Framework.

• Sustainability. Grant-funded projects should take steps toward long-term enhancements to civics education, including, but not limited to, the development of supportive instructional leadership structures. Investments such as professional development for educators or acquisition of needed instructional materials can provide benefits long past the period of this grant, as opposed to "one-off" activities.

• Civic deeper learning. Grant-funded projects should help students master civic knowledge, skills and dispositions, appropriate to grade-level standards, through creative agency and opportunities to actively "do civics." Civic action should be student-led and meaningful to students as individuals, with relevance to their identities and lived experiences. Civic learning should be an integrated part of the larger curriculum, not isolated experiences, lessons, or units.

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Frank A. Weidman Fund

The Frank A. Weidman Fund was established at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide funds for graduates of Pittsburgh Public Schools to complete college and university studies in the arts and social sciences.

Award Type: Single-Year Award

The Franklin Research Grants support noncommercial research by funding travel to libraries and archives, purchasing research materials, and covering fieldwork or laboratory expenses. With a maximum award of $6,000, these grants are aimed at scholars with a doctorate or equivalent publications, excluding Ph.D. candidates. Grants are taxable, not retroactive, and are not intended for conference attendance or publication costs. The program encourages young scholars and allows reapplications after two years.

The Greater Lynchburg Community Foundation offers competitive grants to enhance the quality of life in Lynchburg and surrounding counties. With a focus on various sectors such as the arts, education, and health, these grants support innovative projects that address community needs. Tax-exempt organizations with a 501(c)(3) classification are eligible to apply, with a preference for proposals that promise significant impact with moderate funding. This initiative aims to foster self-reliance and community engagement.

The FHL Foundation Giving program focuses on Animal & Human Welfare in its Winter 2026 Grant Cycle, from December 7, 2025, to January 7, 2026. Interested organizations should email to discuss potential trackable projects. Grants are awarded to 501(c)(3) organizations in Northern New Mexico and Southern Colorado, with clear objectives that can be measured. The foundation meets quarterly to review proposals across various focus areas, ensuring accountability in grant spending.

The Chester County Community Foundation offers funding through its Field of Interest and Donor Advised Funds, supporting nonprofits in various sectors such as arts, education, and health. Grants range from $500 to $7,500, with proposals accepted year-round. Eligibility requires nonprofits to be based in Chester County and have budgets of $500,000 or less. The foundation aims to enhance the effectiveness of local organizations through capacity-building initiatives.

The CFGC Community Grants aim to enhance the quality of life in Greene County, PA by supporting nonprofit organizations that address various community needs. Grants focus on areas such as education, health, arts, and economic development. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations and governmental bodies. The foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate measurable impacts, promote collaboration, and avoid duplicating existing services, reflecting its commitment to effective philanthropy and community improvement.

The Howard E. Stark Charitable Foundation, established in 2007, supports small, impactful organizations in the Northeast US. The foundation prioritizes projects that alleviate suffering for people or animals and considers applications from 501(c)(3) organizations outside its usual funding parameters. Key areas of support include education, after-school programs, rehabilitation, arts, nutrition, and emotional support initiatives. The foundation is committed to fostering local community development through thoughtful funding.

The John W. Porter Trust Grant, established in 1947, aims to enhance the lives of Long Beach, California residents by supporting non-profit organizations. The foundation focuses on arts, education, health, and other community benefits. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and operate within California, with a preference for those serving the Long Beach area. Grants foster positive community impact, reflecting Mr. Porter's vision for a better society.

The Carlsbad Community Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Carlsbad and South Eddy County, fostering projects that enhance community well-being. Established in 1978, the Foundation prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate significant local impact. Grant proposals must include a brief letter outlining project objectives and a budget, encouraging collaboration through matching gifts from other donors. This initiative aims to leverage community contributions to address pressing needs effectively.

The Dallas County Foundation Grant supports community projects in Dallas County, addressing diverse needs such as health, human services, arts and culture, historic preservation, and environmental initiatives. Governed by a dedicated volunteer board, the foundation meets monthly to ensure effective stewardship of donor funds. They welcome grant applications annually, aiming to make a significant local impact. For detailed guidelines, applicants can refer to the FAQs on their website.

The Berrien Community Foundation's "For Good" Grants support community projects in Berrien County, Michigan. These grants are available in two sizes: Major grants ($1,501-$15,000) and Minor grants (up to $1,500). Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) entities, schools, and government or religious organizations. The foundation prioritizes programs that are innovative, sustainable, and address critical local needs while fostering collaboration among community groups.

The Competitive & Foundation-Initiated Grant Programs by the Sonora Area Foundation focus on enhancing quality of life in Tuolumne County. They fund projects in various sectors, including human services, education, and health. Eligible applicants include non-profits and public entities serving the community. The Foundation encourages innovative projects, sustainability, and collaboration with community organizations, aiming to address local challenges effectively. Emergency grants are also available for urgent needs, ensuring timely support for impactful initiatives.

The Suffolk Foundation's Community Impact Grants Program supports nonprofit organizations in Suffolk and Western Tidewater, Virginia, focusing on local projects in health, education, arts, and more. Grants prioritize organizations with strong local presence and leadership, funding direct project costs to enhance community impact. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt public charities serving residents in these areas. Exclusions apply for non-tax-exempt entities, individuals, and projects outside the service area, ensuring funds directly benefit the community.

The McMurry Foundation Grant, established in 1998, focuses on enhancing the well-being of communities in Wyoming, particularly in Natrona County. It supports a range of initiatives, including education, health services, and the arts, aimed at fostering innovation and self-sufficiency among local organizations. The Foundation provides funding for both new and established programs to create lasting community impact while adhering to values of excellence and compassion.

The Alice E. and Joseph C. Blewett Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations, primarily in Dallas, Texas, focusing on education, arts, health, and human services. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt to qualify. The foundation places a strong emphasis on local community engagement, aiming to enhance educational and cultural opportunities for youth. While there are no strict geographic limitations, preference is given to initiatives that align with the Blewetts' legacy of civic involvement and support for community welfare.

The Cooper Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Nebraska, especially in Lincoln and Lancaster County. It prioritizes innovative ideas and sustainable organizations across various sectors, including arts, education, and human services. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) entities and public institutions. Funding is available for program support and capacity building, while the foundation does not support individuals, businesses, or operational deficits. Interested parties are encouraged to contact the foundation before applying.

The Drown Foundation Grant, offered by the Joseph Drown Foundation, focuses primarily on enhancing education in Los Angeles. The foundation supports programs addressing educational equity, including charter schools and teacher development, while also funding community health and social services. They prioritize initiatives that help economically disadvantaged individuals overcome barriers to success. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and the foundation does not fund individuals or religious programs.

The Annual Community Commitment Grants, managed by the Community Foundation of East Central Illinois, have been empowering nonprofit organizations since 1972. With a focus on sustainable impact, these grants support projects in arts, education, health, and more. Each proposal is evaluated based on its potential community value and strategic vision. By fostering collaboration and addressing local needs, the foundation aims to make a lasting difference in east central Illinois.

The Irving S. Gilmore Foundation offers grants to enhance the cultural, social, and economic life of Greater Kalamazoo. With a focus on arts, education, community development, and health, the foundation supports nonprofit organizations benefiting local residents. First-time applicants must consult with the Program Officer prior to submission. Grants of $10,000 or less can be submitted anytime, but the foundation does not fund individuals or academic research.

The Boo Grigsby Foundation, established in 2007, supports 501(c)(3) organizations in Baton Rouge and across Louisiana, focusing on education, health services, arts, human services, community initiatives, and conservation. With over $2,500,000 donated, the foundation aims to enhance community welfare through diverse programs and initiatives, ensuring all residents have access to vital resources and opportunities for growth.

The Josephine de Karman Fellowship, managed by the Pasadena Community Foundation, supports final-year PhD students from select California universities with a $28,000 award for the 2025-2026 academic year. This prestigious fellowship, established in memory of Josephine de Karman, aims to honor academic excellence and encourages applicants from diverse disciplines, particularly within the Humanities. Eligible candidates must defend their dissertations around June 2026 and demonstrate exceptional academic achievements.

The Kosciuszko Foundation offers Tuition Scholarships for American students of Polish descent pursuing graduate studies in the U.S. Scholarships can provide up to $12,000 for full-time studies, including master's and Ph.D. programs. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents with Polish heritage and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This program aims to foster educational exchanges and cultural understanding between the U.S. and Poland, supporting various fields of study.

The Atherton Family Foundation Grants support charitable activities in Hawai‘i, focusing on areas such as arts, education, health, and community development. Capital requests over $25,000 are only accepted in July, while program requests are accepted in January, April, and October. Organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status or a fiscal sponsor. The foundation prioritizes collaborative approaches to address community issues and typically funds grants for one year, with specific guidelines for larger capital projects.

The Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation focuses on improving the lives of underserved individuals in the DC area through grants in five key areas: Arts and Humanities, Community Services, Education, Environment, and Health & Wellness. The Foundation supports organizations that demonstrate cultural competence and systemic change, aiming for self-sufficiency and holistic well-being for all community members. Grants emphasize access to resources and equitable opportunities to foster meaningful community engagement.

The John W. Speas & Effie E. Speas Memorial Trust Grant, established in 1943, supports educational, cultural, human services, and health care initiatives in the Greater Kansas City area. It prioritizes general operating and program support, with restrictions on capital funding. Eligible organizations must serve the Kansas and Missouri regions, focusing on community improvement and capacity building. This grant aims to enhance the quality of life for local residents through diverse programming.

The Guy I. Bromley Trust Grant supports educational, cultural, human services, and health care initiatives in Atchison, Kansas, and the Greater Kansas City area. Established in 1964, it prioritizes organizations providing general operating support and program assistance, while excluding capital support requests. The grant encourages projects that enhance community improvement, arts, education, and health services, fostering a vibrant and supportive environment for local residents. This trust aims to uplift and empower the community through impactful programming.