Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Texas

Volunteer Challenge Grants

Each year, CVS Health colleagues volunteer thousands of hours at nonprofit organizations in their communities. To help our colleagues lend even more support to the causes they care about, the CVS Health Foundation offers grants for volunteer service. Funded through the Foundation, our Volunteer Challenge Grant program supports nonprofit organizations where our colleagues donate their time, with grants ranging from $150 to $3,000. The more hours our colleagues give — starting with just 10 logged hours — the more support the nonprofit of their choice can receive from the Foundation.

Volunteer Challenge Grants are awarded on behalf of individuals who volunteer 10, 25 or 100 or more hours of service, to teams that volunteer more than 50 hours of service, and to both individuals and teams who fundraise for a charitable run, walk or ride event.

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation

The Northern Piedmont Community Foundation (NPCF) began in December 2000 when nine concerned citizens from Virginia’s Piedmont region were searching for solutions to the charitable needs in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, and Rappahannock counties. With modest beginnings, our funds have grown to over $39 million in support of local charities, scholarships and community need in our northern Piedmont region.

Scholarships

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation manages the scholarship application process for dozens of scholarships for students in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, and Rappahannock counties (as well as a handful serving students from surrounding counties too). 

Dr. Eric J. Maybach Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established in memory of a local family practitioner, Dr. Eric J. Maybach. Dr. Maybach treated countless residents of Fauquier County, and in his honor, a scholarship was created. Qualifying applicants must be a resident of Fauquier County and pursuing a degree in medicine – medical school, nurse practitioner, physician’s assistant. Award amount varies.

Jack and Jill - Jacqueline Moore Bowles Scholarship

The Jack and Jill of America Foundation is committed to the positive development of youth and future leaders. Through providing programs focused on financial literacy, education, mentoring, health and wellness, and early childhood development, the Foundation promotes the preparation of succeeding generations of leaders.

In partnership with UNCF, the Jack and Jill of America Foundation - Jacqueline Moore Bowles Scholarship was developed to provide a one-time need-based scholarship of up to $2,500 to service-oriented undergraduate students majoring in Communications. 

Applicants must have completed a minimum of 60 hours of volunteer and community service within 12 months preceding the application deadline. Awards will be issued in the 2025-2026 spring term.

The NEI Center Core Grant for Vision Research aims to enhance research infrastructure and support collaborative studies among NEI R01-funded investigators. By combining multiple Resource and Service Cores, this grant promotes cost-effective research and productivity through shared facilities and resources. It is designed to bolster an institution's capabilities in vision research, encouraging innovative studies on the visual system and its disorders while adhering to the NEI's mission and Strategic Plan.

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.

The Cancer Center Support Grants (CCSGs) aim to bolster NCI-Designated Cancer Centers by funding comprehensive, clinical, and basic cancer research. These grants facilitate the integration of diverse research capabilities, promoting innovative approaches to cancer prevention, diagnosis, and therapy. CCSGs encourage collaboration among researchers and the development of Shared Resources, ultimately enhancing the understanding of cancer and its treatment. This initiative supports the continuous discovery and dissemination of crucial research findings for community benefit.

Through the generosity of fundholders and donors, NCCF has awarded more than half a million dollars in scholarships to assist students in Northwest Connecticut with the cost of higher education.

NCCF awards more than $530,000 in scholarships a year. 

Patrick Dillon Scholarship

Academic Focus:

• Unspecified 

Award:

• $750

Established by the Dillon Family, this scholarship is awarded to a student whose primary residence is in Torrington, is either a first-generation immigrant to the United States or is the child of a first-generation immigrant, and who attends, or will attend, an accredited university or college. This scholarship is not financially need-based. (No FAFSA required)

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley 

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their philanthropic goals through the establishment of charitable funds that support the needs of Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster counties. With over $100 million in assets, CFHV manages nearly 600 charitable funds and has distributed more than $777 million in grants and scholarships since January 2000. We lead initiatives to address urgent community needs such as food insecurity and educational challenges, offering both immediate relief and long-term support.

Wappingers Rotary Scholarship

Established by the Rotary Club of Wappingers Falls, scholarships will be awarded to graduating seniors from Roy C. Ketcham High School or who reside in the RCK area who have demonstrated involvement/leadership in community service activities and an ability to succeed in their chosen field.

Type of Award

One-time non renewable scholarship payable to school

Current High School

Roy C. Ketcham High School or resident in the RCK district

UNCF STEM Scholars Program

The UNCF STEM Scholars Program is an initiative designed to identify and provide scholarship and academic support for students who aspire to earn STEM degrees and to pursue careers in STEM fields, awarding 75 scholarships. The program enables highly capable young people to pursue undergraduate STEM majors and prepares them for successful careers in a variety of STEM professions.

Individual Award

• Maximum total up to $25,000, please see Program Benefits below.

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation

The Northern Piedmont Community Foundation (NPCF) began in December 2000 when nine concerned citizens from Virginia’s Piedmont region were searching for solutions to the charitable needs in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, and Rappahannock counties. With modest beginnings, our funds have grown to over $39 million in support of local charities, scholarships and community need in our northern Piedmont region.

Scholarships

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation manages the scholarship application process for dozens of scholarships for students in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, and Rappahannock counties (as well as a handful serving students from surrounding counties too). 

Fauquier NAACP – Dr. Ellsworth Weaver Education Scholarship

The Dr. Ellsworth Weaver Education Scholarship celebrates the legacy of Dr. Ellsworth Weaver, a former president of the Fauquier County NAACP Branch 7059 and a dedicated advocate for education and equality. Each year, a $1,000 scholarship is awarded to one graduating senior from each of Fauquier County’s three public high schools. Eligible applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA and plan to attend an accredited trade, technical, or vocational school, community college, or four-year university. Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership, service, citizenship, and extracurricular involvement.

Minority students, those facing financial or personal hardships, and individuals committed to improving their communities are strongly encouraged to apply. As part of the required essay, applicants should describe a significant challenge or barrier they encountered during their educational journey and explain how they overcame that difficulty.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) invites research applications focused on early-onset cancers (ages 18-49), aiming to uncover their etiology and biological mechanisms. This funding opportunity supports studies that explore modifiable risk factors, biological responses, and improved identification of at-risk individuals. The initiative seeks to address the concerning rise in these cancers among young adults, facilitating essential prevention and control strategies. Applicants can choose between exploratory or research project formats, with project durations ranging from 2 to 5 years.

About Community Foundation of South Alabama

Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama, improving the lives of many residents in our corner of the world.

We amplify the gifts from generous donors through wise investment, support others in efforts to enhance our community, and lead and collaborate on initiatives which have a broad impact.

Scholarships

The more than 40 scholarship funds at the Foundation were created by generous donors who wanted to help the students in our community achieve a brighter future. We are committed to assisting the most promising students with scholarships for professional certificate programs, two and four-year undergraduate degrees and graduate school. The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, books, and fees.

Steve and Carolyn Perry Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is for an individual pursuing technical training or certification in advanced manufacturing & will support both career training and career advancement training. The applicant must demonstrate that he or she meets the skill requirements of the training or certification program. Financial need is not required but may be taken into consideration. 

Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. 

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Northern Nevada’s Scholarship Program is intended to help students cover the ever-increasing cost of tuition. Some of our scholarships are based on financial need, but others represent an award for achievement. These scholarships typically go to students who have excelled in an academic area or have shown they can balance academics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. There are also scholarships designated for students who have overcome adversity, students pursuing degrees in high-need areas, and adult learners outside the traditional college age group. Community Foundation scholarships can help cover tuition, books, and on-campus housing.

Alex Sevcsik Opportunity Scholarship

The Alex Sevcsik Opportunity Scholarship is open to students who are graduating seniors from the Academy of Arts, Careers, and Technology, or students who have received services from the Eddy House. Preference will be for students who are interested in pursuing Business or Automotive Technologies. Qualifying students will be planning to attend any 2- or 4- year college or university, community college, or trade school in or out of state.

Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. 

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Northern Nevada’s Scholarship Program is intended to help students cover the ever-increasing cost of tuition. Some of our scholarships are based on financial need, but others represent an award for achievement. These scholarships typically go to students who have excelled in an academic area or have shown they can balance academics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. There are also scholarships designated for students who have overcome adversity, students pursuing degrees in high-need areas, and adult learners outside the traditional college age group. Community Foundation scholarships can help cover tuition, books, and on-campus housing.

Jean Bear Mullins Memorial Scholarship

In honor of our beloved wife and mother, who was lovingly known as Jean Bear to her children, we have started the Jean Bear Mullins Memorial Scholarship to help students from Washoe County who have been accepted to or are currently enrolled in a Physician Assistant program or Medical School program at an accredited college or university nationwide. We are so proud to be able to honor her legacy.

Through the generosity of fundholders and donors, NCCF has awarded more than half a million dollars in scholarships to assist students in Northwest Connecticut with the cost of higher education.

NCCF awards more than $530,000 in scholarships a year. 

Donald E. Heisinger Scholarship

Academic Focus:

• Accounting, Finance, or Business

Award:

• $750

Established by the Dillon Family, this scholarship is awarded to a student whose primary residence is in Torrington and who pursues, or intends to pursue, a degree in accounting, finance, or business at an accredited university or college. This scholarship is not financially need-based. (No FAFSA required)

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

The Americana Foundation's American Heritage Grant aims to support projects that broaden inclusivity in early American art and narratives, especially for underrepresented groups. Recognizing the historical significance of Americana, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote understanding and appreciation of America's diverse heritage. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and municipal entities. The foundation encourages innovative projects that reinterpret early American material culture, fostering a deeper connection to the past for future generations.

Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. 

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Northern Nevada’s Scholarship Program is intended to help students cover the ever-increasing cost of tuition. Some of our scholarships are based on financial need, but others represent an award for achievement. These scholarships typically go to students who have excelled in an academic area or have shown they can balance academics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. There are also scholarships designated for students who have overcome adversity, students pursuing degrees in high-need areas, and adult learners outside the traditional college age group. Community Foundation scholarships can help cover tuition, books, and on-campus housing.

Mary J. Yamamoto Memorial Scholarship

The Mary J. Yamamoto Memorial Scholarship helps young women graduating high school seniors from Nevada and Michigan who will be attending accredited colleges, universities, trade schools to obtain a 2 or 4-year degree or certificate. This scholarship is established in memory of Mary J. Yamamoto to support equal access to education. 

Cox Enterprises Scholarship Program

A need-based scholarship for students attending UNCF member institutions with preference given to students majoring in STEM.

Individual Award

• Up to $5,000

The Japanese-Language Education Project Grant supports initiatives that enhance Japanese language education across various regions. Offered by the Japan Foundation, Los Angeles, this grant targets workshops, seminars, and original projects that connect language learning with Japan Studies. Eligible applicants include non-profit educational organizations in the U.S. Projects should benefit multiple programs, ensuring a broad impact on Japanese language education. The deadline for applications is two months before the project start date, which must be between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026.

The NIH Support for Conferences and Scientific Meetings (R13) provides funding for high-quality conferences that align with public health and scientific missions. Key deadlines for applications include April 12, August 12, and December 12 for the years 2024 through 2026, with specific deadlines for AIDS-related grants as well. This funding opportunity aims to foster collaboration and dissemination of important research findings in relevant fields.

The Rea Charitable Trust, established in 2009 by Mrs. Isabel McClintic Rea, prioritizes support for charitable organizations that focus on the arts. Administered by Comerica Bank & Trust, the trust provides funding through structured application periods for organizations based on their names. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, limited to one application per year. The trust aims to uphold Mrs. Rea's legacy by fostering artistic endeavors within the community.

The Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund Grant Program seeks to advance secure computing environments for AI-powered Radio Access Networks (RAN). This initiative aims to foster innovative solutions that can enhance operational revenue, provide cost efficiencies, and develop third-party services, thereby demonstrating viable business cases. By supporting the integration of AI capabilities, the program accelerates commercial deployments and promotes the export of secure, interoperable equipment.

The AHRQ Mentored Clinical Scientist Research Career Development Award (K08) aims to foster a diverse pool of skilled health services researchers. This funding opportunity supports career development for individuals pursuing research that aligns with AHRQ's mission and priorities. Eligible applicants will receive mentorship to enhance their research skills and contributions to the field. Overall, this initiative is crucial for addressing pressing healthcare research needs.

The American Association of Law Libraries (AALL) Research Fund Grant supports projects that enhance legal information services and law librarianship. With a funding cap of $5,000 per round, the grant encourages diverse scholarship in legal research. Eligibility includes individuals with relevant research experience, while preference is given to AALL members. Applications are reviewed biannually by a jury, ensuring that the most impactful projects receive support. This initiative aims to foster innovation and collaboration within the legal information community.

The PLTW Gateway Program Expansion, in partnership with Lockheed Martin, aims to enhance STEM education in schools across the United States. With a total grant of $10,000 for the 2026-2027 academic year, this initiative focuses on expanding existing PLTW Gateway programs, allowing schools to introduce new units and train additional teachers. Since 2007, Lockheed Martin's support has enabled over 300 programs, providing critical skills to more than 77,000 students nationwide.

The Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) offers predoctoral training grants aimed at enhancing clinical and translational science. Administered by the NCATS, this program supports institutions in training aspiring researchers for a PhD or equivalent, ensuring a diverse cohort of scientists equipped to tackle pressing health challenges. The ultimate goal is to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of advancing biomedical research and addressing community health needs effectively.