Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Tennessee

The SPARK Research Match Expansion initiative by the Simons Foundation aims to enhance autism research participation among undersampled groups. By providing incentives for participants in online surveys and other research methods, this program seeks to address the demographic disparities in clinical research. This funding opportunity encourages innovative studies that prioritize inclusivity, ensuring that the research reflects the diverse population of the United States, thereby advancing scientific discovery in autism and related fields.

The Creative Native Call for Art invites Indigenous artists aged 5 to 24 to showcase their talents through diverse artistic expressions. Participants can submit works inspired by the theme of what is sacred to them and their community, with opportunities for national recognition and awards, including a grand prize of $1,000. This initiative aims to celebrate and support young artists in their creative journeys while honoring cultural significance and community values.

Charmayne Gooch Arts Scholarship

The Charmayne Gooch Arts Scholarship is available to Larimer County students who have the potential to succeed but may not have attained sufficient academic achievement to place them in a position to receive other scholarships. This can include students with a disability or special needs and/or a student who would benefit from a program with less emphasis on academics such as art, writing, music, or visual arts.

Scholarship amount:

• $5,000

Number of awards:

• 3

Scholarship awards are one-time awards. The amount awarded to a selected recipient may be used for the cost of attendance. All scholarships will be paid directly to the recipient’s school and must be used for the upcoming academic year. Award disbursement is contingent upon the outside scholarship policies of a recipient’s college or university.

The Abrazo/Mitchard Birthmother Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports birthmothers who have placed their children for adoption through Abrazo Adoption Associates. This fund offers financial assistance for tuition and educational expenses for full-time students pursuing various degrees. Eligible applicants include adult learners and current college students. Although the scholarship is not renewable, recipients can apply for an additional year of funding, making education accessible to those in need.

The Ajay Castro Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports female undergraduate students pursuing a degree in communications. This scholarship is aimed at adult learners or current college students who have graduated high school or earned a GED. Although it is not renewable, recipients can reapply annually. Preference is given to those returning to college after a break, ensuring that the fund continues to empower women in education.

Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture encourages, protects and promotes agriculture and related industries throughout the commonwealth while providing consumer protection through inspection services that impact the health and financial security of Pennsylvania's citizens.

Wine Marketing & Research Program

Introduction

The Pennsylvania Wine Marketing and Research Program Board (Board) annually, or more frequently as the availability of the fund permits, solicits applications for grants to conduct promotion, marketing and research projects to increase the quality, profitability, production and sale of wines, enhance the wine industry and benefit wine producers of this Commonwealth.

Research includes, but is not limited to:

• Characterization of Accentuated Cut Edges (ACE)
• Impacts of Spotted Lanternfly
• Impact of Under-trellis Groundcover
• Marketing Education and Professional Development for the PA Wine Industry
• Pennsylvania Wine Land Statewide Marketing & Promotions
• Spotted Wing Drosophila in Pennsylvania
• Grapevine Leafroll Viruses
• Tannin Extraction

Lakeview Foundation Scholarship

The Lakeview Foundation provides higher education scholarships to college bound students of Eastern Van Buren County, Michigan who are pursuing a healthcare degree.

Lakeview Foundation started in 1985 as a Hospital Authority Foundation. Its existence is solely due to the hospital that was started in Paw Paw in 1939 in a house that was the summer home of David Rose, a former mayor of Milwaukee.

The hospital quickly became Lakeview Municipal Hospital and eventually Lakeview Community Hospital Authority comprising the Villages of Paw Paw, Lawton, Decatur and Mattawan, The City of Gobles, and the Townships of Paw Paw, Pine Grove, Decatur, Antwerp, Almena, Hamilton, Porter and Lawrence.

Shortly after the hospital authority sold the hospital to Bronson Methodist Hospital, Lakeview Foundation became independent and accepted a large donation as part of the sale. Lakeview Foundation enjoys a close bond with Lakeview Bronson Hospital.

The Community Foundation’s scholarships are for Arkansas students pursuing education at two- or four-year colleges or universities, vocational schools or technical training programs. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria. Some scholarships are designated for graduates of a particular high school or those who plan to attend a particular college. Others are based on extracurricular activities or intended college majors.  

The Foundation has a scholarship portal with a quiz to help applicants determine scholarship eligibility. 

“Since 1976, the Community Foundation has partnered with individuals and organizations who want to support our state’s students in their pursuit of higher education,” said Heather Larkin, Community Foundation president and CEO. “These generous people provide the funding and determine the size and eligibility criteria of each scholarship, while we oversee the application and awarding process on their behalf.”  

Anne Pressly Scholarship

To memorialize the legacy of Anne Pressly and support women who plan to pursue a career in Journalism.

The ISF Media Scholarship Program, established by the Islamic Scholarship Fund, supports American Muslim students pursuing degrees in media-related fields. With scholarships ranging from $3,000 to $5,000, the program aims to enhance Muslim representation in media and policy, counter negative portrayals, and foster positive narratives. Eligible applicants must be full-time students or working professionals in supported majors like media studies and journalism, maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0.

The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), in partnership with the Sallie Mae Fund, offers the Completing the Dream Gap Scholarship to 170 students pursuing accredited post-secondary education. Each recipient will receive $2,500 to alleviate financial barriers that may hinder their academic progression. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain good academic standing, and possess leadership qualities. This initiative aims to support students as they navigate their educational journeys and prepare for successful futures.

Nurses Educational Funds

Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. depends solely on donations to advance our only mission, to promote nursing leadership through annual scholarship support for professional nurses seeking masters and doctoral degrees in nursing education, practice, research, and administration.

NEF’s only purpose is to provide nursing scholarship assistance to make graduate level nursing education possible. NEF is one of the largest, national, private, professionally endorsed source of funds for advanced nursing study with over one hundred years of service to and for professional nursing. NEF is a non-profit organization with 501(c) status.

Mathy Mezey Scholarship

In 2013, the John A. Hartford Foundation, Inc. created a permanent NEF Scholarship for $50,000 in honor of Mathy Mezey, EdD, RN, FAAN, a noted international geriatric expert. Funds from this scholarship will be used to award nurses engaged in graduate geriatric nursing programs.

Help End Alzheimer's

The CART Fund is dedicated to funding cutting-edge, high-impact research to find a cure for Alzheimer’s Disease. We are proud to collaborate with more than 600 Rotary Clubs in 50 Rotary Districts around the US who #StandWithCART.

100% of all donations go directly to research.

ADRC-Supported Programs: Request for Pilot Projects for Early Stage Investigators

CART Discovery Grant

Projects are intended for new/early-stage faculty only (i.e, instructor, assistant professor, or equivalent, with institutional privileges to serve as PI on federal grants).

Areas of research can range from basic, translational and clinical investigations. Studies of pre- clinical phases of disease and approaches useful in differentiating disease processes from normal aging, as well as multi-etiology dementia, early interventions, imaging and biomarkers, are encouraged. Applicants may consult with ADRC scientists for strategic and statistical advice.

Please write a cover letter and include affirmation that this is a NEW pilot project and not supported by federal or non-federal sponsored grants. The applicant may request a project period of up to one year with a budget for DIRECT COSTS of up to $50,000. CART will send payment for these Pilot Grants at the beginning of the project. INDIRECT COST RECOVERY IS NOT ALLOWED.

Institutional matching funds are encouraged.

Through the generosity of donors to the Foundation Council, MNRS is able to offer nurse researchers grant opportunities to further their work and contribute to the profession of nursing science. The Foundation and Grants Committee urges you to apply for one of the grant opportunities offered solely to MNRS members. You must remain a member of MNRS for the entire duration of the grant process.

About MNRS Joseph & Jean Buckwalter Dissertation Grant

This grant was made possible through a bequest from the estate of Dr. Joseph and Jean Buckwalter to their son and daughter-in-law, Jody and Kitty Buckwalter. The purpose of this grant is to support the research development of budding scholars in the Midwest Region, especially those with interests in chronic illness and mental health. All applicants MUST be current active members of MNRS to be eligible for this grant.

National Federation of the Blind of Maryland

The National Federation of the Blind of West Virginia (NFBWV), an affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind, is an organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people, and has the power, influence, diversity and determination to help transform our dreams into reality. Members work together for a brighter tomorrow by raising expectations so that blind persons can live the life they want.

The National Federation of the Blind of West Virginia is a 501c(3) nonprofit volunteer membership organization comprised of blind and interested sighted persons of all ages, their families and friends. Our committed local chapters, divisions, committees, programs, and well-trained leaders help newly blind people adjust to vision loss, and promote the full participation and integration of blind people in our communities. We bring our collective experiences together to effect change at the state and national level.

Allen-Sprinkle Memorial Gift

Each year the National Federation of the Blind of West Virginia (NFBWV) awards a scholarship to a worthy blind individual who is pursuing or planning to pursue a full-time program of post-secondary study or training and is a resident of West Virginia. This award is known as the Allen-Sprinkle Memorial Gift. Both Sid Allen and Jack Sprinkle were long time leaders in the organized blind movement in West Virginia. The gift is One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00), and the scholarship will be given at the annual banquet of the NFBWV State Convention.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Ruth Westerman Oren Nursing Scholarship

• Recent graduate of an Ottawa County high school or technical school or Ottawa County adult resident making a career transition to nursing
• Pursuing a nursing degree to become a Registered Nurse (RN) through an accredited nursing program within the United States
• Priority given to past recipients who have a strong performance record in their nursing studies

The Wenatchee Women’s Bowling Association – Opal Wickland Scholarship, established by Cheryl Pope, honors the legacy of top bowler Opal Wickland. This scholarship supports youth bowlers in the Wenatchee Valley, encouraging them to pursue higher education. Eligible applicants include graduating high school seniors entering college, who demonstrate academic achievement. The WBA aims to recognize and reward dedication to bowling, while helping students achieve their educational dreams.

The William and Elizabeth Robinson Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports graduating seniors from Chelan or Douglas county high schools who demonstrate significant financial need. Ideal candidates are hardworking, motivated students with a GPA between 3.3 and 3.80. This scholarship honors the Robinsons' legacy of valuing education and community service, assisting those who aspire to pursue higher education and contribute positively to society.

The Austin Education Foundation Scholarship, established by a committee from the Austin School District, aims to support local high school seniors in their pursuit of post-secondary education. With an estimated total award of $3,500 over four years, the scholarship is designed to honor the legacy of Austin High School Alumni. To be eligible, applicants must belong to the Austin School District and submit an activity resume, facilitating a pathway for deserving students to achieve their educational dreams.

The SDA Award of Excellence recognizes innovative achievements in textile and fiber arts, promoting the mission of the Surface Design Association (SDA). This prestigious award is presented to artists exhibiting exceptional work in current exhibitions, emphasizing creativity and excellence. Recipients receive a one-year premium digital membership in SDA, which includes various member benefits. By celebrating artistic accomplishments, the award aims to enhance awareness of the SDA's commitment to supporting textile and fiber artists and their contributions to the community.

The Cooley, Dearing And Rinker Foundation Scholarship, managed by the Northern Piedmont Community Foundation, supports graduates from public schools in Winchester, Frederick, Rappahannock, and Warren Counties. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and show commitment to their college education. Award amounts typically range from $1,000 to $5,000, helping students pursue their academic goals. The foundation has a strong history of addressing community needs since its establishment in 2000.

The Project Lifesaver International Grant by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America aims to fund programs that prevent wandering and enhance public safety for individuals with dementia-related illnesses. This grant supports public safety agencies that are members of AFA and Project Lifesaver International, focusing on essential training, supplies, and community outreach. Grants are awarded biannually, promoting better care and safety for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

The Anne & Irving Brodsky Innovation Grant, offered by the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, provides $25,000 to support innovative programs that enhance the lives of individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease and related conditions. This grant is exclusively available to AFA nonprofit member organizations, with funding directed towards essential program expenses such as staff training, administrative costs, and necessary supplies. The initiative aims to foster advancements in care and support for families dealing with Alzheimer's.

The OJJDP FY 2026 Opioid Affected Youth Initiative provides funding to support states and localities in combating violent crime and overdose deaths. This initiative aims to enhance prevention, intervention, and treatment strategies for children, youth, and families impacted by substance use disorders. Collaboration among law enforcement, educational institutions, and community organizations is essential to effectively address the needs of at-risk populations and those already involved in the child welfare and justice systems.

Charlottesville Promise Scholarship

The Charlottesville Promise Scholarship is a multi-year award that can fund up to $13,000 of the cost of a two or four year undergraduate degree, or a vocational training/professional certificate program at an accredited technical school. Charlottesville Scholarship Program typically awards nine new scholarships each year to seniors attending Charlottesville High School, one potential new scholarship each year to a graduating high school senior residing in Charlottesville City and attending an alternative or non-traditional learning centers listed here, and one potential new scholarship each year to an eligible adult student currently attending or planning to enroll in a post-secondary undergraduate program or vocational training/professional certification program at an accredited technical school.   

The NIJ FY 2026 Research and Evaluation on Human Trafficking funding opportunity aims to support comprehensive research and evaluation projects. It focuses on preventing human trafficking, assessing the impact of federal policies, and enhancing services for victims. This initiative, led by the National Institute of Justice in partnership with the Office for Victims of Crime, seeks to generate insights that can inform better responses to human trafficking in the U.S.

Health Services Research in Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders (HSR-ADRD) Program

The HSR-ADRD program seeks to support research that strengthens dementia detection, diagnosis, and post-diagnostic care pathways along the care continuum. Projects may address a range of health services research questions, including, but not limited to, studies examining barriers and solutions to timely access, quality, and care coordination. By supporting rigorous and innovative research, this program aims to generate actionable evidence to improve person-centered, coordinated, and equitable brain health and dementia care.

Program overview

The program welcomes proposals that utilize rigorous methodologies to advance understanding and improvement of cognitive impairment, including MCI and Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD) detection, diagnosis, and post-diagnostic care.

This award is structured as an individual research grant, with funding administered through the recipient’s institution. Proposals should address one or more Areas of Focus. Areas of Focus represent high-priority research topics for which this program is actively seeking proposals and include: 

• The Value of Early Detection and Diagnosis: Studies should investigate outcomes associated with early detection and diagnosis on at least two levels of the dementia care ecosystem (i.e., individual/families, providers/clinicians, health systems/payers, and policy/society).
• Care Pathways for Individuals with MCI or Dementia: Studies should consider comorbidities and investigate how people are being screened and diagnosed in different settings, and the post-diagnosis pathways for care and treatment, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions or combinations thereof.

Funding overview

• Each HSR-ADRD award is limited to a total of $250,000 U.S. (direct and indirect costs) for a duration of up to two years (awards should be a minimum one year).
• Indirect costs are capped at 10 percent of total direct costs and are inclusive of indirect costs for the implementing institution as well as for any subcontracts.

Nurses Educational Funds

Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. depends solely on donations to advance our only mission, to promote nursing leadership through annual scholarship support for professional nurses seeking masters and doctoral degrees in nursing education, practice, research, and administration.

NEF’s only purpose is to provide nursing scholarship assistance to make graduate level nursing education possible. NEF is one of the largest, national, private, professionally endorsed source of funds for advanced nursing study with over one hundred years of service to and for professional nursing. NEF is a non-profit organization with 501(c) status.

Liesel M. Hiemenz Scholarship

This permanent scholarship was established in memory of Ms. Hiemenz, a nurse from Germany. Preference is given to applicants interested in public health.