Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

Judy Lutz Davidson Scholarship

A scholarship awarded to Marshall-area graduating seniors or previous graduates pursuing a degree in the legal support services, such as but not limited to legal secretary, paralegal, legal clerk, legal assistant, compliance specialist or title examiner. GPA is not a determining factor, however, transcripts are requested. Students who receive this scholarship are encouraged to apply for further support in subsequent years. 

The Agnes and Margaret Macmillan Scholarship, established by the Saint Andrew's Society in New York, offers five annual scholarships worth $45,000 each. Aimed at fostering academic exchange, it supports US students studying in Scotland and Scottish students in the US. Candidates must demonstrate Scottish descent and reside in specific Northeastern states. This scholarship honors the legacy of Margaret 'Peggy' Macmillan, who significantly contributed to the fund in memory of her sister Agnes.

The Lisa Walder Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports female students pursuing degrees in fields such as Foreign Language, Liberal Arts, and Business. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and current college students enrolled in accredited institutions. With a focus on financial need, this renewable scholarship offers funding for up to three years, emphasizing academic achievement with a required GPA of 2.5. This program aims to empower women through education and community growth.

About

Created by the community for the good of the community, the GLCCF is here to turn problems into opportunities through strategic grant making and initiatives created to address our region’s most pressing needs. We work with you to identify your charitable goals, and we ensure that they are carried out efficiently.

Work with us to make the kind of impact you want to see in your community. Let us take on the financial complexities and paperwork, while you focus on the important things like fostering good works throughout our community.

When you give to the Greater Lake City Community Foundation, you are making an investment that will benefit the community, now and in the future.

GLCCF Personal Services Scholarship

To award annually a scholarship to a qualified applicant who intends to further his/her education toward obtaining training to work in the Personal Services area.

The Equity in Mathematics Grants (6-12), funded by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, aim to enhance the achievement of historically underrepresented student groups in mathematics. Grants support innovative classroom materials and lessons, focusing on effective teaching strategies as per NCTM policy. Eligible applicants include classroom teachers and small groups of educators. Proposals should outline their plan for improving student outcomes while detailing the anticipated impact on underachieving students' performance.

The Equity in Mathematics Grant (PK-6) aims to enhance mathematics education for underrepresented student groups, addressing disparities linked to race, gender, and culture. Funded by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, this grant supports innovative classroom materials and lesson plans that focus on improving student achievement. Eligible applicants include classroom teachers and collaborative groups. The initiative seeks proposals that reflect best practices in mathematics education while fostering equity and inclusivity in learning environments.

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.

Wallace S. and Janis J. Sweet/Westminster Presbyterian Church Memorial Scholarship

Awarded by Wallace S. and Janis J. Sweet/Westminster Presbyterian Church Memorial Scholarship Fund

A scholarship fund established through the generosity of many friends of the Sweet Family to help deserving students pay for expenses of an education beyond the high school level.

Candidates are identified by Utica Dollars for Scholars.

Ayla Lankerd Scholarship for Dreams

Applicants must exemplify Ayla’s attributes of independence, wittiness, intelligence, tenacity, nonconformity, courage, competitiveness, desire for perfection and quirky sense of humor. Ayla Lankerd was born on August 31, 2010 and attended Marshall Public Schools until a sudden illness took her from earth on June 8, 2021. Although she was only alive for 10 short years, she lived each moment to the fullest. She was a competitive gymnast and loved to play soccer and basketball. She liked owls, sloths, rainbows and peace signs. She was unapologetically herself. At one time, she wanted to cure cancer and then wanted to be a rock scientist (her words). She created beautiful artwork from the pictures in her mind. She was a leader, never really caring what others thought of her, only concerned with her self-realization. She had anxiety but always worked herself through it and overcame it. She always pushed through. This scholarship fund was created in her memory as a way to remember her beautiful soul that left this earth too soon. This scholarship also gives the family an opportunity to provide support to other students that embody Ayla’s personality traits so they can go forth and carry out their dreams whether it’s to cure cancer, become a rock scientist or make a living in artistry. 

The Inja & Kwang Choi, MD Family Scholarship, awarded by the Erie Community Foundation, supports deserving seniors from local high schools who aspire to pursue careers in medicine or engineering. With over $800,000 in scholarships distributed in 2023, this initiative helps students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher achieve their educational goals, fostering the next generation of professionals in critical fields.

The John Lewis NIMHD Research Endowment Program aims to enhance research infrastructure and training at higher education institutions to address health disparities. Key objectives include improving physical infrastructure, acquiring research equipment, developing technical expertise, expanding academic science programs, and recruiting accomplished researchers. This limited competition invites applications from eligible organizations, with a rigorous peer-review process to ensure only high-quality proposals receive funding.

The Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) Phase II aims to enhance technological innovation in the private sector, focusing on improving the lives of individuals with disabilities through research and development. Administered by the US HHS Administration for Community Living, this program supports small businesses in addressing the needs of these individuals. Grants are available for a 24-month project period, allowing projects to expand upon Phase I results to achieve greater commercial application and societal impact.

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.

George Dila Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Wayne and Jeanie Mortenson, who established the George Dila Memorial Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Mason County to honor the memory of their dear friend, George Dila.

This scholarship is for graduating senior(s) of Ludington High School pursuing a degree or certification at any two or four-year accredited college, university, or vocational/technical school.

The Leukemia Exploration and Prevention Grant Program (LEAP) aims to advance cancer interception and prevention for patients with RUNX1 familial platelet disorder (RUNX1-FPD). This program supports interdisciplinary research teams investigating the mechanisms of leukemogenesis and innovative treatment strategies. With funding of up to $430,000 per year, LEAP encourages projects focused on both understanding clonal evolution and developing novel therapeutic approaches. The initiative seeks to bridge critical knowledge gaps and provide urgent interventions for high-risk populations.

The WAEF Scholarships, supported by the Washington Apple Education Foundation, offer over $1 million in educational awards to more than 300 students this year. These scholarships are primarily for individuals with ties to the tree fruit industry in Washington, with a special focus on the Danna Gebbers Guzman Memorial Scholarship, aimed at nursing students. Eligible recipients can use the funds at accredited institutions with nursing programs.

American Psychiatric Association Foundation

There is no health without mental health. The APA Foundation is working in your community to provide the support and resources we all need to prioritize mental wellbeing where you live, learn, work, worship, and play.

Backed by the medical expertise of the APA and industry-leading strategic partners, we administer community-changing programs, public education campaigns, grants, and awards aimed at increasing mental health literacy, connecting individuals to needed care, and shifting attitudes toward mental health.

Our Mission is to promote the mental health and well-being of individuals and communities. Our Vision is a mentally healthy nation for all – where we live, learn, work, worship, and play.

Diversity Leadership Fellowship

The Diversity Leadership Fellowship identifies and motivates minority psychiatry residents or those interested in minority and vulnerable populations to become well equipped to teach, administer, and provide culturally competent, evidence based mental health and substance abuse services to diverse minority groups and at-risk populations. These populations include—but are not limited to—American Indians/Native Alaskans, Asian Americans/Native Hawaiians/Native Pacific Islanders, Blacks/African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, LGBTQ, and religious minorities. Program Benefits:

• Sponsorship to attend a minimum of four APA meetings:
  • Two APA Annual Meetings
  • Two Fellowship Forums
• Develop leadership skills in the field of psychiatry and advance understanding of the life experiences of racial ethnic minority communities
• Gain an understanding of APA/APAF Governance through observation and service on an APA Council, Committee, or APAF initiative
• Have the opportunity to sit on the APAF Board of Directors as a non-voting member (one Diversity Leadership fellow allowed)
• Cultivate a professional network with psychiatrists interested in minority mental health and services through exclusive events and engagements with APA leaders. Establish relationships and peer-mentorship with a diverse group of resident fellows with similar career interests and goals

The Robert and Jenilie Palla Education Fund offers scholarships to graduating WCPS seniors who have participated in Cross Country and/or Track & Field Teams. This initiative, supported by the Community Foundation of Washington County, Maryland, aims to honor local students and encourage their academic pursuits. With a commitment to enhancing the community's quality of life, the fund exemplifies the importance of education and athletics in shaping future leaders.

The Brees Dream Foundation Grant aims to enhance the lives of cancer patients while providing essential care, education, and opportunities for children and families in need. With the support of generous donors and partners, the Foundation is dedicated to advancing cancer research and offering vital resources to those facing challenges. This commitment reflects a profound dedication to improving quality of life and fostering hope in communities.

EmpowHer Grants, offered by the Boundless Futures Foundation, provide essential financial support and resources to female entrepreneurs in the U.S. who are committed to creating social impact through their businesses. Grants, which can go up to $25,000, are available to those with businesses that are less than three years old and demonstrate revenue generation. This initiative aims to empower women by reducing barriers and fostering a supportive entrepreneurial community.

The John Stashonsky Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Muskingum County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from John Glenn High School, Cambridge High School, or Mid-East Career and Technology Center (Zanesville Campus) who are pursuing higher education. Applicants are required to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities and improve the quality of life in Muskingum County through philanthropy.

The NCB - Botany Research Scholarship Program, offered by Northern California Botanists, targets undergraduate and graduate students pursuing research in botany and plant ecology. Scholarships of $1,500 support independent study, thesis, or dissertation projects within a specific geographic area of Northern California. Eligible applicants may reapply for funding for up to four years. This initiative aims to foster academic careers in botany and promote valuable ecological research.

The Glenn D. and Bennie Lou Hammons Family Scholarship, established by the Central Kentucky Community Foundation in 1960, supports residents of Hardin County with a GPA between 2.5 to 3.5. This scholarship aims to empower local students by providing financial assistance for their educational pursuits, fostering community growth and development. As part of the Lincoln Trail Region's extensive network of community foundations, it reflects a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for deserving applicants.

The NIH is seeking innovative computational approaches to enhance the curation of biomedical research assets at scale. This initiative aims to accelerate access to secure datasets and computational models, facilitating transformative discoveries in biomedical science. Key deadlines for applications range from January 2025 to January 2027, covering standard, renewal, and AIDS-related grants. Applicants are encouraged to submit Letters of Intent 30 days prior to application deadlines to ensure a streamlined review process.

This funding opportunity invites applications for pilot projects focused on understudied proteins linked to rare diseases. The goal is to generate preliminary data and tools related to these proteins, which belong to druggable families with known rare disease associations. By supporting innovative research, this initiative aims to facilitate the characterization of these proteins, ultimately contributing to advancements in understanding and treating rare diseases.

The NIDCR Drug, Biologic, Device and/or Procedure Intervention Clinical Trial Planning and Implementation Cooperative Agreement (UG3/UH3) is designed to support clinical trial planning and implementation for dental, oral, and craniofacial conditions. This funding opportunity encourages applications that propose innovative research strategies within the NIDCR mission. Key deadlines span from February 2025 to January 2028, with emphasis on milestone-driven planning phases leading into possible clinical trial phases.

North Central Zone Covering Jefferson and Lewis Counties "Retired Educators Helping Future Educators" In Partnership with The Northern New York Community Foundation

Scholarship Awards for 2026

Three $1,000.00 scholarships will be awarded by the North Central Zone of the Retired Educators of New York (RENY) and the Northern New York Community Foundation (NNYCF) for students residing in Jefferson and/or Lewis Counties - These are a onetime award to help students get started with their college education

Any high school senior pursuing a career in the teaching profession is eligible

• You must be a 2025-2026 high school senior
• You must be accepted into a college program starting in the Fall of 2026

The Carolyn Ann Weiner Scholarship, established by the Muskingum County Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Carrie Weiner, a brave young woman who faced significant health challenges. This scholarship supports college-bound seniors who have overcome extraordinary obstacles, reflecting Carrie's dedication to education. Candidates are nominated by mentors who highlight their resilience and character. The scholarship aims to empower students pursuing their dreams despite adversity, ensuring that Carrie's inspiring story continues to impact future generations.

The NLSOT Dr. Hillary M. Carpenter, III NLSOT Merit Award honors individuals for their outstanding contributions to the Northland Society of Toxicology and the field of toxicology. It is awarded annually to recognize distinguished service, with the possibility of consideration in subsequent years if no award is granted. Awardees receive a plaque and are encouraged to attend the fall meeting where they are formally recognized, with waived registration fees.