Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

The Oregon Community Foundation offers the Black Student Success Capacity Building Grants to support Black-led organizations in Oregon. With a total funding of $720,000, these grants aim to enhance the operational capacity of these organizations, enabling them to better serve marginalized Black children and families. Eligible organizations can request up to $50,000 for projects focusing on education, community engagement, and culturally responsive programming, contributing to transformative change in the community.

The Community Partnership Grant, administered by the Sons of Norway Foundation, offers up to $5,000 for projects that promote and preserve Norwegian culture and heritage. Open to individuals and groups from Norway and the U.S., the grant encourages initiatives that reflect the foundation's core values such as lifelong learning and community generosity. Applications must be submitted online in English and should demonstrate a commitment to celebrating Norwegian cultural traditions.

The 100 Voices of Florida Grant, initiated by passionate Floridian sisters, supports filmmakers by offering up to $5,000 to enhance their projects. This grant encourages creative expression among writers, directors, and producers from diverse backgrounds. Applicants must be 18 or older and can use the funds for production, festival fees, or other expenses. Judges will evaluate commitment to storytelling, emotional engagement, and pacing. A unique opportunity for storytellers to showcase their work and receive professional guidance.

The Incentive Prize for Art Critics, organized by the International Association of Art Critics – USA Section (AICA-USA), invites critics from various media to submit essays on the theme of re-thinking the Global South through art. With a deadline of July 27, 2025, and no entry fee, the competition offers cash prizes of €1000 for first place, €500 for second, and €250 for third. Winning essays will be recognized and published, fostering critical discourse among art critics.

The Hans Korendyke Memorial Scholarship, offered by Western Michigan University, is a $500 award aimed at full-time junior or senior students in electrical or mechanical engineering with an interest in environmental design. This scholarship also provides an opportunity to apply for an internship at TowerPinkster. Students can apply by completing the scholarship application form on WMU's Scholarship Universe, demonstrating both academic excellence and financial need.

The Resident Clinical Research Award, supported by the ACG Institute and the American College of Gastroenterology, fosters original clinical research by medical residents in gastroenterology and hepatology. This award encourages promising trainees to undertake a mentored research project, with funding for diverse studies and reimbursement for travel to the ACG Annual Scientific meeting. Since 1994, over $31.9 million has been awarded to more than 745 recipients, promoting careers in clinical research.

The Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program Subgrant, administered by the South Carolina Department of Education, aims to enhance academic enrichment opportunities for students in low-performing schools. This initiative supports a range of activities, including tutoring, youth development, health education, and family engagement, fostering a holistic approach to education that complements the regular academic curriculum and prepares students for successful futures.

The Montgomery County Community Foundation Grant, established in 1998, supports community projects in areas such as civic engagement, health, education, and culture. With two application cycles each year, this grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Montgomery County through impactful projects. Applicants must submit their proposals online by the deadline, as no extensions are granted. Funding can be utilized for capital support or specific program activities.

The Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant, managed by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, aims to enhance student learning through various programmatic components. These include academic enrichment, family engagement, and a range of additional services that support students, particularly those in low-performing schools. The grant is designed to create safe environments for students after school hours, promoting holistic development through tutoring, arts, sports, and community service.

The School Age Community Grant supports school-based programs catering to children aged 5 to 12, including those with disabilities. It aims to enhance academic achievement through various activities such as tutoring, mentoring, and enrichment programs. The grant encourages applications from local education agencies, with funding options for single or multiple sites. Priority points are awarded for targeting schools with higher needs and for year-round programming, ensuring that diverse community needs are met effectively.

The Kentucky 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) Grant aims to enhance student achievement and social development through effective out-of-school programs. Targeting high-poverty and low-performing schools, it provides academic, artistic, and cultural enrichment opportunities. Local school districts, community organizations, and other eligible agencies are invited to apply, with a maximum award of $150,000 available and no matching funds required, fostering collaboration for student success.

The RI Specialty Crop Block Grant Program aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in Rhode Island. This program funds initiatives related to research, marketing, and education for crops such as fruits, vegetables, and nursery plants. Eligible projects may focus on improving food safety, promoting local consumption, and increasing innovation in distribution systems. For detailed eligibility and project examples, visit the USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program website.

The RI Forest Legacy Program aims to protect vital forest lands from conversion to non-forest uses through funding for land purchases or conservation easements. Established in 1990, the program prioritizes projects that demonstrate exceptional resource value and are at risk of development. It operates in partnership with the USDA and RI DEM, requiring at least 25% funding from local sources. Applications are accepted year-round, with a competitive selection process conducted annually.

Welcome to the New Jersey Department of Education

Mission

The New Jersey Department of Education supports schools, educators and districts to ensure all of New Jersey's 1.4 million students have equitable access to high quality education and achieve academic excellence.

Vision

Become a model organization that strengthens teaching, leading and learning in order to increase educational equity for all students.

CTSO: Skills USA

It is the intent of the Career & Technical Student Organization (CTSO) – SkillsUSA Year 1/4 Competitive grant program to identify an organization to provide statewide leadership (state advisors) for the Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) identified below. CTSOs are student-led organizations that develop student competencies and career readiness designed to 1) prepare them for success in environments in different broad industry areas, 2) gain self-confidence and pride in their work and accomplishments, 3) learn good leadership qualities and skills, and 4) identify and make realistic career choices that encourage individual achievement and recognition. Local chapters of a CTSO are established at LEAs serving secondary students. SkillsUSA (SkillsUSA) empowers its members to become world-class workers, leaders and responsible American citizens.

The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) has established a four-year grant program. This limited-competitive grant program is open to public secondary school districts and 2-year and 4-year institutions of higher education in the State of New Jersey.

Funding

Total Amount Available: $158,500 

The Brightwork Grants: Special Project Grant, offered by the North Carolina Arts Council, aims to support visual artists in 2026. One artist will receive funding for studio-based projects, which may cover equipment purchases, exhibition-related expenses, and project-specific research costs. Eligible applicants must reside in designated North Carolina counties and be at least 21 years old. This initiative fosters artistic innovation and community enrichment by empowering local talent through targeted financial support.

The Brightwork Grants: Professional Development, initiated by the North Carolina Arts Council, aims to support visual artists in their professional growth. Starting in 2026, one selected artist will receive funding for activities enhancing their development, such as workshops, portfolio documentation, and equipment purchases. Eligible applicants must reside in specific North Carolina counties for at least one year and be 21 or older. Notably, those awarded the Brightwork Fellowship after 2022 are ineligible.

The Veterans United Foundation Scholarship supports the educational aspirations of military families by providing financial assistance to eligible applicants. This scholarship is open to veterans with service-related disabilities, surviving spouses, and children of deceased servicemembers. Since its inception in 2012, over $1 million has been awarded, making a significant impact on the education of those who serve our country. The application process requires proof of eligibility and documentation to ensure support for education-related expenses.

The Bluegrass in the Schools Mini-Grants program, offered by the IBMA Foundation, supports K-12 educational initiatives by funding live bluegrass music performances in schools. Grants of up to $500 are available for programs that provide a comprehensive understanding of bluegrass music, including its history, instruments, and vocal harmonies. This initiative aims to enhance student engagement with bluegrass while preserving its cultural heritage, enriching the educational landscape through live demonstrations.

Welcome to the New Jersey Department of Education

Mission

The New Jersey Department of Education supports schools, educators and districts to ensure all of New Jersey's 1.4 million students have equitable access to high quality education and achieve academic excellence.

Vision

Become a model organization that strengthens teaching, leading and learning in order to increase educational equity for all students.

Family, Careers and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Grant

It is the intent of the Career & Technical Student Organization (CTSO) – Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Year 1/4 Competitive grant program to identify an organization to provide statewide leadership (state advisors) for the Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) identified below. CTSOs are student-led organizations that develop student competencies and career readiness designed to 1) prepare them for success in environments in different broad industry areas, 2) gain self-confidence and pride in their work and accomplishments, 3) learn good leadership qualities and skills, and 4) identify and make realistic career choices that encourage individual achievement and recognition. Local chapters of a CTSO are established at LEAs serving secondary students. Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) promotes career opportunities in the family and consumer sciences, to enhance the delivery of quality family and community services to all people.

The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) has established a four-year grant program. This limited-competitive grant program is open to public secondary school districts and 2-year and 4-year institutions of higher education in the State of New Jersey

Funding

Total Amount Available: $158,500  

The Racial Equity and Community Partnership Grant Program, managed by Northwestern University, aims to foster partnerships between community organizations and the university to address racial inequities. With over $500,000 committed annually since 2020, the program supports initiatives that promote equity through capacity building and research-based strategies. It invites applications from community-based organizations and university representatives, emphasizing projects that lead to structural changes and benefit underserved communities.

The McGregor Foundation Grant, established in 2002, aims to support seniors in need across Cuyahoga County. Originating from a rich history of senior care, the Foundation continues the legacy of The A.M. McGregor Home and Amasa Stone House. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and located in Cuyahoga County, with a focus on specific areas of need. The Foundation does not fund scholarships or individual grants.

The Nita M. Lowey 2025 Grant Competition is designed for re-applicants seeking funding to provide expanded learning opportunities for children outside regular school hours. Administered by the Kansas State Department of Education, this grant focuses on collaborative projects between school districts and community organizations, targeting schools with a 40% or higher free/reduced lunch population. Eligible applicants must have received 21st CCLC funds in the past five years, fostering educational equity and student achievement.

The State Tutoring Grant, administered by the Arizona Department of Education, aims to provide tutoring for students attending schools rated D or F. This program enables parents to select approved tutoring services to enhance educational outcomes. With a focus on equity, the initiative seeks to support students in need, ensuring that tutoring complements existing educational frameworks. Eligible Arizona schools can apply, fostering improved academic performance and collaboration among educators and communities.

The Nita M. Lowey 2025 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Competition is aimed at new applicants who seek to provide expanded learning opportunities outside regular school hours. Managed by the Kansas State Department of Education, this grant supports projects that enhance student achievement, particularly in schools with a significant low-income population. Applicants must collaborate with community organizations and focus on meeting state educational standards.

The Emerging Artists Competition & Exhibition, organized by Arts For Rural Texas, showcases the creativity of rural Texas students in grades 6-12. Participants submit original artwork for a chance to win ribbons and share in $5,000 in cash prizes. This annual event, held at the Ross Gallery, aims to inspire young artists and promote cultural engagement in rural communities, while fostering artistic development and appreciation among youth.

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation offers the Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship to outstanding community college students with financial need, providing up to $55,000 per year for two to three years to cover educational expenses. This selective scholarship supports students in completing their bachelor's degrees at accredited institutions. Recipients benefit from personalized advising and a robust network of Cooke Scholars. Eligible candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 and demonstrate unmet financial need, ensuring accessibility to higher education.

The National Film Preservation Foundation offers Basic Preservation Grants to nonprofit and public institutions for preserving culturally significant American films. Since 1998, they have provided resources to 337 organizations across the U.S. Grants range from $1,000 to $20,000, facilitating the creation of new film preservation elements and public access copies. With an annual award of 30 to 40 grants, this initiative plays a crucial role in ensuring the survival of films that are at risk of being lost.