Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

The Anne S. Chatham Fellowship in Medicinal Botany, funded by the Garden Club of America, aims to protect and expand knowledge of medicinal plants. It offers a $4,500 grant to support Ph.D. students and recent graduates in pursuing essential research that may otherwise be inaccessible. This initiative not only fosters botanical research but also contributes to the development of therapies that enhance patient quality of life and potentially save lives.

The Preschool Development Grant Birth Through Five (PDG B-5) SMART Grant aims to enhance early care and education systems in the U.S. by supporting targeted investments in technology and data analytics. This initiative, led by the Administration for Children and Families, encourages states to improve program quality, family choice, and data-driven decision-making for children from birth to five years old. The funding is designed to create measurable outcomes and strengthen coordination within the mixed-delivery system.

The Watershed Fund offers Environmental Education Grants to organizations focused on preserving water quality and enhancing community appreciation for environmental resources. Grants, typically not exceeding $10,000, support projects that educate the public on the significance of watershed land and its impact on local ecosystems. Eligible applicants include non-profits, municipalities, and educational institutions within the South Central Connecticut Regional Water District. The program emphasizes measurable outcomes and collaboration with existing environmental education initiatives.

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

John & Sophie Choratch Scholarship Fund

For current year graduating seniors of any Washington County high school, whose parent or guardian is employed as, or who volunteers as, a first responder (e.g., fire, emergency/rescue, police). Special consideration will be given to those students whose parent or guardian has been killed in the line of duty or who have otherwise been affected by local tragedy.

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

Kiwanis Club of Washington Scholarship Fund

For students who reside within the boundaries of the Avella Area School District, McGuffey School District, Trinity Area School District, Washington School District, and/or attended the Western Area Career & Technology Center and who plan to enroll in a certificate, associate, or bachelor’s degree program. Qualified applicants who are planning to attend or currently attending Penn Commercial Business/Technical School and/or have a strong community service background will be given special consideration.

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

McDonald Family Cookie Jar Scholarship Fund

For a current year graduating senior who resides within the boundaries of any Washington County school district, who plans to enroll in a certificate, associate, or bachelor's degree program, and who demonstrates financial need. In the selection process, preference shall be given to students from under-represented, disadvantaged and/or diverse populations.

Washington County Community Foundation

The Washington County Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in Washington County by promoting and facilitating philanthropy. We accomplish this by assuming four philanthropic roles of Grantmaker, Donor Service Organization, Fundraiser, and Community Leader. Fostering philanthropy by offering charitable gifting opportunities to donors on an individualized basis and at reasonable fees, we make charitable giving easier, more satisfying, and more effective. 

The Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized under the laws of Pennsylvania, which is registered with the Pennsylvania Charities Bureau and annually files the Federal Form 990.

Scholarships for Post-Secondary (Undergraduate) School

The Foundation provides both need-based and merit-based scholarships to students in Washington County, with a few scholarships also available to students in Greene County. All scholarships are made payable to the educational institution the student is attending. 

Olivia Scott Scholarship Fund

For current year graduating seniors of any Washington County high school, who demonstrate academic excellence, sportsmanship, and/or the ability to work with others towards a common goal.

MCCF | About

Helping You Achieve Your Charitable Goals for Montgomery County, Indiana

The Montgomery County Community Foundation was founded in 1991 to support its residents by facilitating proactive and positive changes in the community. Through donor gifts, our foundation fulfills the needs of nonprofits working to improve the quality of life in our county. 

We are here as a reliable source of information and connections to help you accomplish your charitable goals – and help you make a lasting impact.

Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship

Description:

The Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship program will provide one scholarship for full tuition, required fees, and a special allocation of up to $900 per year for required books and required equipment for four years of undergraduate study on a full-time basis, leading to a baccalaureate degree at any Indiana public or private college or university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges.

The Davenport, Evans, Hurwitz & Smith Scholarship, managed by the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation, offers significant financial support for students pursuing higher education in South Dakota. With over $500,000 awarded annually, this scholarship targets high-achieving seniors from specific counties, encouraging participation in community activities and academic excellence. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and plan to attend an accredited institution, ensuring that deserving students receive the assistance they need to succeed.

The Youth Impact Grant, administered by the Jackson Community Foundation's Youth Advisory Committee, aims to support youth-focused initiatives in Jackson County, Michigan. It provides funding to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and government entities that create positive impacts on local youth. This grant not only benefits the community but also empowers student volunteers by enhancing their leadership skills and philanthropic experience. Applications for projects that cater to youth needs are currently being accepted.

The WebbCraft Family Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations that enhance education and cultural awareness. Established in 2000, the foundation has awarded over $3.3 million to various programs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations focused on education and community development in the Belton and Honea Path areas. This funding aims to foster growth and opportunity within these communities, making a significant impact on local arts and educational initiatives.

Spencer Educational Foundation Inc

The Spencer Educational Foundation was founded by the Rims Atlanta Chapter in 1979. To this day, Spencer remains the premier organization funding the education of tomorrow's risk management and insurance leaders.

The Spencer Educational Foundation: awards merit-based scholarships and grants to university students pursuing careers in risk management, insurance, and/or actuarial science; provides grants that create experiential learning opportunities both on and off campus; funds the development of risk management and insurance curricula in colleges and universities; supports Risk Managers by creating internship opportunities within the risk management function of their companies; and operates across the United States and Canada. 

Spencer Educational Foundation: Course Development Grants

Since 2014, Spencer has invested over $1.6 million in developing risk management and insurance (RMI) courses at close to 70 colleges and universities, exposing approximately 19,000 students to the RMI industry.

Our Course Development Grant program supports Introductory Risk Management and Insurance Course Development - for universities that have not previously offered any such instruction - as well as proposals for additional Course Curriculum Development and Program Development - for universities looking to develop a RMI program and/or expand existing RMI course offerings, with an emphasis on new and emerging areas in the industry.

Spencer Educational Foundation: Course Development Grants for NJ Schools

The Spencer Educational Foundation and New Jersey RIMS Chapter are looking to partner with colleges and universities in New Jersey to expand RMI education. Spencer’s Course Development funding supports the development of RMI curricula. Funding opportunities range from introductory course development (i.e., RMI 101) at institutions with no RMI courses to expanding existing RMI courses to address upper-level topics (e.g., Insurance Company Operations, P&C, and ERM). Grant amounts typically range from $10,000 to $25,000 (average $15,000), and New Jersey RIMS Chapter engagement is possible to support RMI graduate scholarships and experiential learning initiatives. 

The Children's Foundation of Erie County Grant aims to enhance the lives of at-risk children in Erie County, NY. With a focus on supporting not-for-profit organizations, the foundation seeks to fund initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to improving children's quality of life. Eligible agencies must have IRS 501(c)(3) status and serve local children. Grants will not be awarded to individuals or for endowments, ensuring that funds directly benefit the intended recipients.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Jennifer L. Jackson Memorial Scholarship

Jennifer L. (Hanson) Jackson was a wonderful young woman on a mission to absorb as much knowledge as humanly possible. Graduating second in her class at Arthur Hill High School in 1995, she excelled in academics while also cultivating a deep interest in history and the arts. She was truly a “Star Wars” fan and trivia expert.

Even though Jennifer’s life ended much too early, her spirit lives on with her family. They choose to honor her memory through this scholarship. The successful candidates will be expected to possess high academic promise, good moral character and personal integrity.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

James R. and Anita Horne Jenkins Scholarship

For Anita and Jim Jenkins, giving back has become a way of life. “Both of us have received help from many others throughout our life’s journey,” the couple says. “We believe in giving back and paying it forward.” Among those who helped along the way was a University of Michigan Law School administrator who guided Anita and Jim through the financial aid process and approved an emergency grant when Jim first began working as a judicial clerk for an Illinois State Appellate Court judge and Anita was in her final year at University of Michigan Law School. They also give because they both grew up in households where their parents modeled outreach, care, and assistance to others. “We are thankful for our blessings and for all that others have done for us, and we take seriously our stewardship responsibility to support and give to others in every way that we can,” said Anita and Jim.

California Department of Education

California will provide a world-class education for all students, from early childhood to adulthood. The Department of Education serves our state by innovating and collaborating with educators, schools, parents, and community partners. Together, as a team, we prepare students to live, work, and thrive in a multicultural, multilingual, and highly connected world.

Public Charter Schools Grant Program Start-Up Subgrant

Purpose and Background

The PCSGP is a subgrant program funded by the federal Charter Schools Program (CSP), authorized under Title IV, Part C of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) of 1965, as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) (20 United States Code [U.S.C.] 7221–7221j (External Link). The PCSGP is a discretionary grant program. California was awarded approximately $93 million in grant funds for 2024–29. States that are awarded these federal funds distribute them in subgrants to charter school developers, known as PCSGP Start-Up Subgrants in the state of California, to assist in the development and initial operations of newly established or conversion charter schools as well as to assist in the expansion and replication of high-quality charter schools.

PCSGP Start-Up Subgrants identify funding levels and terms into three subgrant types: New School (Planning and Implementation), Replication, and Expansion. For FY 2026, the CDE has an approved pipeline and budget to award approximately 26 subgrants. The actual number and type of subgrants awarded during each RFA competition may vary based on demand. If all authorized awards are not approved for funding, the CDE may open additional RFA competition events for new applicants until allocated funds have been awarded.

New Jersey Department of Health

The scope of work for the public health system is ever-expanding, and the Department is on the frontlines in leading the response to public health challenges. The Department has three primary branches – Public Health Services, Health Systems, and Integrated Health. All work collaboratively toward improving health by strengthening New Jersey’s health system.

Our Mission: Protect the public’s health, promote healthy communities, and continue to improve the quality of health care in New Jersey

Tobacco Age of Sale Enforcement TASE Program

Purpose for which the Grant Shall be Used 

The purpose of this grant award is to support enforcement of New Jersey’s Tobacco Age of Sale law, which prohibits the sale of any tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21, through routine compliance inspections of Tobacco Retail Establishments (TREs) by implementing the Tobacco Age of Sale Enforcement (TASE) program within select counties that face disproportionately high tobacco use burden.

The State Occupational Safety and Health Surveillance Program (U60) aims to enhance state-level occupational safety and health (OSH) surveillance capacity. Funded by NIOSH, this initiative supports various state programs, fostering partnerships among health departments and universities. By utilizing diverse data sources, these programs assess workplace health impacts and develop tailored interventions, ultimately ensuring better health and safety for workers across the U.S. This collaborative approach addresses critical gaps left by regulatory programs.

The British Society of Soil Science offers the Teaching Soil Science Grant to support innovative teaching practices in soil science. This grant facilitates the development of interactive educational resources and the purchase of field equipment, enhancing learning experiences. Open to individuals and organizations, the grant encourages creative projects that promote soil science education. Applications are reviewed quarterly, and early submission is advised to secure funding, as resources are limited. Collaboration between educational institutions is also encouraged.

About 

The New Mexico State Library, established in 1929, is committed to providing leadership that promotes effective library services and access to information to all citizens of New Mexico. The State Library provides services that support public libraries as well as delivers direct library services to rural populations, state agencies, the visually impaired and physically disabled, and students and citizens conducting research.

• The library supports public libraries by providing consulting services, offering training and continuing education opportunities, administering the librarian and librarianship certification program, coordinating a state-wide summer reading program and Tribal library program, and administering state and federal grants to public libraries.
• Through special library services for government employees, the State Library serves state agencies. The State Library also provides public distribution of information published by the state government through the State Publications Collection.
• Citizens benefit from State Library services provided directly in Santa Fe and through the state-wide Rural Services program (bookmobile services for those towns without a public library and books by mail services for home bound citizens) and Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped program. The State Library also offers access to a state-wide database, Magazines Online, to all New Mexicans.

Rural Libraries Program (RLP) Grant

The Rural Libraries Program Grant is to provide funds to support and expand public library services for New Mexico’s rural libraries and is issued in accordance with 4.5.10 NMAC

About OLIS

The Office of Library and Information Services strengthens, connects and empowers libraries to advance knowledge, connect communities and enrich the lives of all Rhode Islanders.

The mission of the Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS) is based on the fundamental vision that Rhode Island libraries inspire and transform lives. OLIS provides services and programs for all types of libraries, including public, academic, school and special libraries. These services support and strengthen library and information services in the state to ensure that all Rhode Islanders have free and convenient access to library and information resources and services.

LORI Summer Reading Program Mini-Grants

The Office of Library & Information Services offers subgrants of its Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant to support the overall purposes of LSTA and the priorities of the OLIS Five-Year Plan. The Library of Rhode Island (LORI) Grant Program provides opportunities for libraries, library consortia, or library-serving organizations to execute forward-looking projects that support the advancement of library services in Rhode Island and support the OLIS priorities of Access, Learning, and Engagement. OLIS also administered subgrants for COVID Stimulus Funds.

Library of Rhode Island (LORI) Project Grants provide opportunities for libraries, library consortia, or library-serving organizations to execute forward-looking projects that support the advancement of library services in Rhode Island. Libraries or organizations are encouraged to submit proposals that expand access to library materials and services, expand learning opportunities or promote literacy, expand or advance the use of library services or the role of the library in the community, or create more inclusive or accessible library services to all members of the community. Partnerships with community-serving organizations are strongly encouraged. Visit the 2026 LORI Mini Grants page to learn more about opportunities for smaller projects.

Funds

Grant applications will be accepted for projects from $10,000 to $27,500. No matching funds are required.

The Forrest Shreve Student Research Fund, awarded by the Ecological Society of America, supports research in North America's hot deserts, including the Sonoran and Mojave. This fund aims to enhance our understanding of desert ecology through innovative projects. Eligible applicants include graduate and undergraduate students who are ESA members. Proposals are evaluated based on their significance, feasibility, and design, with awards ranging from $1,000 to $2,000, granted annually.

The World Trade Center Youth Research Coordinating Center aims to establish a research cohort to study the health impacts on youth exposed to the 9/11 events. This initiative, backed by the NIOSH, will focus on individuals aged 21 or younger at the time of exposure, including those in utero. The Center will integrate diverse expertise to assess long-term health and educational effects while enhancing community engagement and stakeholder communication throughout its activities.

Historic Restoration Fund (HRF) Grants

What can the HRF program fund:

• Maintenance and repair of historic building fabric and character defining features.

What types of buildings can the HRF program be used on:

• Buildings that are listed on the State or National Register of Historic Places either individually or as a contributing resource to a district.

What is the size of the grants:

• Grant awards range from $5,000 to $200,000.

Is there a required match:

• Yes, a one-to-one match is required. Grants are paid on a single-payment reimbursement basis following project completion. Federal funds and other non-state funds can be used as a match.

This is a very competitive grant program with a yearly budget of $1 million. If your organization is not awarded a grant, we welcome you to apply in a subsequent year. HRF grants are awarded in January of each year.

Hinsdale Junior Womens Club Foundation Grants

HJWC was founded in 1949 with the mission to enrich our community, the lives of our members and their families. In 2018-2019, HJWC launched our new Grant Fundraising model to help fund tangible items with a lasting impact for deserving organizations. Since then, more than $1.4 million has been granted by HJWC to non-profit organizations in Chicagoland and the Western Suburbs. Each club year, members also donate time towards service projects and scholarship awards.

Local nonprofits can apply for grants of up to $50,000 through HJWC. These grants are supported by the club’s year-round fundraising efforts and annual signature events.

Each spring, HJWC announces its grant recipients, awarding an average of 20 grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000 to organizations serving women and children. Grants typically support long-lasting, high-impact needs.

The McKnight Artist Fellowships for Writers supports mid-career Minnesota writers with five annual $25,000 awards. These fellowships, administered by The Loft, alternate between creative prose and poetry/spoken word, alongside a dedicated award for children's literature. Applicants must be legal Minnesota residents and may only apply for one fellowship annually, with specific eligibility criteria ensuring diversity in creative disciplines. The program emphasizes the importance of artists and cultural bearers in fostering Minnesota's vibrant artistic community.

The Indianapolis Foundation Library Fund supports literacy and information access projects for Marion County residents through competitive grants, media center enhancements, and professional development funds. Eligible libraries include the Indianapolis Public Library and local universities' libraries. The fund aims to foster innovative programming, such as bilingual story times and digitalization of archival collections, with the goal of enriching community engagement and educational resources.