Best Grants for Science Research in Washington

Washington 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on children, education, or health and human services can access funding through Costco Foundation for monetary program support in communities where Costco operates. Eligible organizations should demonstrate clear community need, measurable outcomes, collaboration, and a broad base of financial support; science research programs serving children’s health or education may be eligible.

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

Early-stage independent nonprofits and impact-first, mission-driven for-profits in Washington tackling urgent social or environmental problems can apply for support from Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation. Focused on scalable solutions for underserved communities, this global funder offers up to US $300,000 plus intensive capacity-building and community connections for organizations ready to grow their impact.

U.S. R1 research universities in the SSRC College and University Fund for the Social Sciences can secure US $300,000 to launch a Public Exchange that turns research into real-world impact. Grants from Social Science Research Council help Washington and other universities build staffed, branded infrastructure to develop high-impact, cross-sector social science research partnerships.

Nonprofit organizations conducting STEM education or health-related programs in Washington can access funding for health and welfare, education, or community initiatives. Labcorp Charitable Foundation provides support for projects such as healthcare services for underserved populations, STEM programming, food pantries, and healthy lifestyle research and screening, with requests reviewed twice yearly in March and September.

Nonprofit and social enterprise programs improving education, health, or family economic stability for urban low-income children in Washington and across the U.S. can seek more than US $50,000 for project support or scaling. Michael & Susan Dell Foundation backs organizations working in education, children’s health, and poverty alleviation in the U.S., India, and South Africa.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting early childhood education or community economic development in Washington communities where PNC operates can apply for PNC Foundation’s Foundation Grant. Funding may support early learning programs, educator development, family engagement, affordable housing, small business support, community services, arts and culture, or neighborhood revitalization for low- and moderate-income residents.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

Washington science research organizations with 501(c)(3) status can access funding through the Sidney Stern Memorial Trust to support charitable, scientific, medical, or educational work conducted in the U.S. Eligible nonprofits must be tax-exempt under federal law, with projects that are well-managed, broadly beneficial, and materially advance general welfare.

Nonprofit organizations conducting community-based programs in Washington can apply for US $1,000 - US $20,000 to support education, cultural, environmental, health, and social service initiatives. The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation funds U.S. museums, schools, clinics, youth and senior programs, disability services, workforce training, and related projects that benefit local communities and may include science-related activities.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits addressing basic needs, community vitality, or volunteer-driven causes can apply for Ameriprise Financial’s community grants to support programs like hunger relief, shelter, adult self-sufficiency, and cultural enrichment. Organizations in Washington may be eligible, with priority for sites near Ameriprise employee centers and strong Ameriprise volunteer engagement.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

Forestry researchers and institutions in Washington can seek funding for science research on nursery tree production, root systems, and transplanting techniques. Focused on improving root-ball development and establishment success, Tree Fund invites projects that advance root science and urban tree performance, which may benefit broader biology and earth science research efforts.

Libraries, health organizations, and other NNLM Region 5 member institutions in Washington and neighboring states can receive US $2,000 for staff professional development that strengthens health information services. National Library of Medicine funding, administered by NNLM Region 5, supports U.S.-based conferences, workshops, and trainings on health literacy, data science, public health, citizen science, and related topics.

The Community Ties Giving Program by Union Pacific Foundation offers local grants aimed at enhancing community well-being through diverse funding priorities. These include safety initiatives, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes supporting organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create impactful projects that resonate with Union Pacific's heritage and mission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Union Pacific communities and demonstrate a clear need and capacity to deliver effective programming.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations conducting youth, community, or environmental programs in Washington and across the U.S. can apply for Chick Fil A Foundation’s True Inspiration Awards, offering US $30,000 - US $350,000. Grants support education, youth leadership, housing, food security, and environmental stewardship projects that benefit children, families, and local communities.

Established 501(c)(3) organizations conducting education, health, environmental, or related humanitarian programs in Washington and the broader Southern region can seek support for single-year projects. The Robinson Foundation funds efforts in areas like medical assistance, poverty relief, disaster relief, children and families, veterans’ issues, and nature and wildlife conservation, excluding capital or facilities projects.

Washington public schools seeking support for outdoor educational experiences in Washington can apply for grants of US $10,000 - US $175,000 to expand student learning outside the classroom. With a mission to enhance outdoor learning, Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office funds experiential education, STEAM activities, habitat restoration, field studies, and leadership-focused programs that may incorporate science research components.

Washington BIPOC-led nonprofits running youth education, culture, or athletics programs for ages 6–18 can access funding through Charlotte Martin Foundation for program or general operating support. Organizations headquartered in Washington or other eligible Western states that engage youth in STEAM learning, cultural expression, sports, or college preparation may be competitive applicants.

Washington nonprofits, public institutions, and community groups working on environmental conservation, natural resources, or community enhancement projects can access funding through PacifiCorp/Pacific Power/Rocky Mountain Power Foundation. Grants up to US $10,000 support efforts like parks and trails, science centers, libraries, affordable housing, and local economic development in eligible Washington counties served by Pacific Power.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

Nonprofit organizations addressing poverty, disability, social disadvantage, or disaster relief in Washington and other eligible countries can seek project or program support, with awards from US $5,000 - US $250,000. With a mission to help disadvantaged people become self-reliant, Gupta Family Foundation prioritizes smaller, non-sectarian organizations where at least 90% of funds reach beneficiaries.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations conducting community or environmental projects in Washington can seek support for their work through the Dudley T Dougherty Foundation. The foundation provides flexible funding for charitable initiatives, and Washington-based groups doing science-related community, environmental, or peacebuilding efforts may be eligible to apply.

Washington nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities near Georgia-Pacific manufacturing communities can seek funding for education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental initiatives. Washington community organizations conducting science-related education or environmental projects may be eligible for support through the Georgia-Pacific Foundation if they are located within 30 miles of a GP facility.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.