Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

The Gisle A. Johnson and Eva M. Johnson Education Fund, administered by Scholarship America, supports students from the Owatonna, MN School District. It aims to eliminate financial barriers for current high school seniors or graduates under 35. Eligible applicants can enroll in accredited colleges or vocational schools for the upcoming academic year. Scholarship America has awarded over $5.7 billion to millions, ensuring equitable access to education. This fund exemplifies their mission to empower students through financial support.

The BURGER KING Scholars: Employee-Based Track provides scholarships for employees and their families pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or enrichment programs at accredited institutions. With nearly $64 million awarded to over 55,000 students, this initiative aims to support academic success and empower individuals through education. Eligible applicants include employees, spouses, partners, and dependent children, with awards of up to $1,000 based on financial need and academic performance. This program reflects the Burger King Foundation's commitment to education and community support.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Thrive Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties

The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc., strengthens our communities by leading philanthropy and solutions through our direct work in partnership with donors, nonprofits and the community. Our 501(c)3 nonprofit Foundation is the foremost resource for convening partners to elevate people, improve lives and make our community a better place to live.

Grants & Scholarships

Grants power our nonprofit partners on the frontlines of pressing local issues, filling the opportunity gaps through direct-to-people programming.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors. 

The Community Foundation offers both need and merit based scholarships.

PBC Society of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeons Scholarship Fund

Scholarship Eligibility

• Graduating high school senior from any Palm Beach County high school
• Pursuing a career in medicine
• Demonstrate financial need

The Food Access Emergency Grant by the Chaffee County Community Foundation aims to support food providers in Chaffee County as they respond to increasing food insecurity and delays in SNAP benefits. With $50,000 available for funding, eligible organizations can apply for up to $5,000 to enhance their food access programs. This initiative reflects CCCF's commitment to philanthropy and community resilience, ensuring that all residents have access to essential resources.

The Union School Association Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, is designed for Union residents who have lived in the town for at least five consecutive years. Eligible applicants must be graduating from any town-approved high school and plan to pursue further education at an accredited two- or four-year institution, trade school, or other recognized programs. This scholarship supports local students in achieving their educational and career goals.

The BURGER KING Scholars: Nancy McLamore Scholarship offers $20,000 to deserving students, focusing on employees and their families. Administered by Scholarship America, it supports U.S. citizens graduating from high school or pursuing higher education. With over $64 million awarded to 55,000 students, the program emphasizes empowerment through education, reflecting the values of the Burger King Foundation. Eligible applicants must meet specific criteria, ensuring support for those committed to their educational journey.

The Sisters' Circle Fund, established in 2016, aims to enhance charitable giving within African American communities in Greater Kansas City. This fund awards grants to nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving quality of life and providing essential services in the region. Eligible nonprofits must have 501(c)(3) status and focus on serving African-Americans in specific counties in Missouri and Kansas. This initiative fosters impactful community development and strengthens local support networks.

The Waterford Scholars program, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, has been supporting local students since 1983. With over $11.9 million awarded through various funds, this initiative aims to help Waterford residents in financial need pursue higher education. By offering scholarships, the foundation addresses educational disparities and fosters the development of future leaders in the community. Students seeking assistance for college can apply and benefit from this generous program.

The Laura Fish-Kelly Scholarship, established by financial advisor Laura Fish-Kelly, supports female students from Windham County pursuing business-related studies at accredited colleges. It is part of the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, which has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships since 1983. This scholarship aims to help students with financial need achieve their educational goals and contribute positively to their communities.

The Community Foundation of Abilene, established in 1985, aims to enhance community philanthropy by empowering donors and providing scholarships. The 'Another Step Forward' scholarship assists single parents, like Kaye, who have faced challenges in pursuing education. This initiative supports individuals returning to school, ensuring they receive financial help to achieve their academic goals. By offering these opportunities, the Foundation fosters resilience and growth within the Abilene community.

The Marjory B. and Laurence P. "Jim" Smith Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, offers $12,000 over four years to outstanding students with financial need from East Lyme, Robert Fitch, Montville, New London, and Waterford High Schools. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, supporting local students in their pursuit of education and career aspirations.

The Philip A. Turner Scholarship, established by friends and family in memory of Philip A. Turner, supports New London students involved with the Rotary Club of New London's Interact organization. Eligible applicants must be planning to major in Business or a related field, maintain good academic standing, and demonstrate financial need. A secondary preference is given to Norwich Free Academy students committed to community service. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships.

The William Silva Fund for the Arts, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports students pursuing studies in visual and performing arts, particularly in music, singing, photography, painting, and acting. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to help local students achieve their educational goals. This fund reflects a commitment to nurturing artistic talent in the region and enhancing the cultural landscape of Eastern Connecticut.

The Wausau East Girls Swim Team Scholarship, established in 2006, honors student athletes who demonstrate exceptional dedication to the sport and their community. Administered by the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, this scholarship supports graduating seniors from Wausau East High School who have been active members of the swim team for at least three years. It celebrates values such as teamwork, perseverance, and a positive attitude, fostering future leaders both in academics and athletics.

The Logan Middleton Sportsmanship Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, awards two $2,000 scholarships to male graduating high school seniors who have participated in the Blue & Gold Basketball Tournament. Eligible candidates must demonstrate commitment through at least two years of basketball involvement, showcase community service, and submit an essay on sportsmanship. This scholarship aims to support students in their pursuit of higher education while promoting values of sportsmanship and community engagement.

The McKnight Visual Artist Fellowships, administered by the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, support mid-career Minnesota artists through six annual $25,000 unrestricted grants. This initiative, backed by the McKnight Foundation, fosters artistic growth by connecting fellows with national critics and providing professional development opportunities. Since 1982, the program has aimed to enhance the artistic merit and career trajectories of visual artists, contributing significantly to Minnesota's vibrant arts community.

The Daily Bread Grants, offered by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, aim to support congregations with feeding ministries. Starting from November 1st, organizations can apply for $500 grants to help alleviate hunger in their communities. Priority is given to rural ministries, and applications will be accepted until funds are exhausted or until November 15th. This initiative not only provides immediate assistance but also encourages further financial support for food-based services.

The Arizona Child Abuse Prevention License Plate Donation Grant, issued by Governor Katie Hobbs’ Office of Youth, Faith and Family, aims to fund local and statewide programs that effectively promote trauma-informed primary prevention to combat child abuse and neglect. Eligible applicants include academic institutions, non-profits, and schools located in Arizona. This grant supports vital advocacy efforts while fostering community collaboration to strengthen families and protect children across the state.

The David Dupps Scholarship, established in 2017, supports students pursuing careers in trade-related fields such as welding and machining. This scholarship is available for those enrolled at the Miami Valley Career Technology Center or the Hobart School of Welding, aiming for degrees or certificates in machining, welding, robotics, or automation. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and be accepted into the respective programs.

The Petoskey-Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation offers Discretionary Grants to support urgent community needs in Emmet County. With applications accepted year-round, these grants provide up to $1,500 per organization, with a total annual fund of $15,000 available. Eligible applicants include 501c3 nonprofits, governmental institutions, and faith-based organizations focused on community service. Notably, grants cannot fund individual support or projects promoting specific religious doctrines. This initiative fosters philanthropy and addresses diverse community issues.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Robert C. & Maureen A. Granger Scholarship Endowment Fund

The Robert C. and Maureen A. Granger Scholarship Endowment Fund was created to assist graduates of East Aurora High School or West Aurora High School who are furthering their studies in a four-year college or university, seeking a degree in chemistry or chemical engineering.

This scholarship fund was established by Maureen Granger to help aspiring chemists earn a degree in the profession that her husband loved.

Robert (Bob) Granger was a graduate of East Aurora High School where he developed a lifelong interest in chemistry. He graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in chemistry.

He worked for the Burlington Railroad as a chemist/chief chemist for fourteen years. He then took a position with Sears Roebuck in Chicago as a chemist/product engineer until he passed away in 1990 at the age of sixty-one.

He and his wife Maureen were married for forty-one years before his passing. They raised their four children in Aurora.

The intent of this scholarship fund is to assist East Aurora and West Aurora High School graduates pursue a professional career in the field of chemistry.

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program

Program Overview:

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian (LB21) projects build a library and archival workforce that can meet the information needs of communities and increase the institutional capacity of libraries, archives, and library and information science graduate programs across the country.  

The program supports projects that:  

• provide training and professional development to library and archives professionals;  
• develop faculty and information leaders; and 
• recruit, educate, and retain the next generation of library and archives professionals. 

Projects can support the recruitment, education, training, and retention of pre-professionals, students, faculty, and the current library and archives workforce. 

Project Type

Planning:

The Dubuque County Child Care Solutions Fund Grant provides vital wage support for childcare providers in Dubuque County. Designed to enhance employee compensation, this fund aims to retain qualified professionals while maintaining affordable tuition for families. With grants of up to $1,000 for full-time and $500 for part-time staff, it addresses the pressing issue of childcare wages. This initiative, managed by the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque, ensures quality care and access to essential services for the community.

The Loft Literary Center and the Madeline Island School for the Arts (MISA) invite nominations for the 2025 Excellence in Teaching Fellowship, offering four writers a week-long residency to work on their projects. Located on a scenic Wisconsin dairy farm, MISA provides single-occupancy lodging, meals, and a supportive environment. Recipients can select their preferred week from late June or early September 2025, making this a unique opportunity for creativity and professional development.

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program

Program Overview:

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian (LB21) projects build a library and archival workforce that can meet the information needs of communities and increase the institutional capacity of libraries, archives, and library and information science graduate programs across the country.  

The program supports projects that:  

• provide training and professional development to library and archives professionals;  
• develop faculty and information leaders; and 
• recruit, educate, and retain the next generation of library and archives professionals. 

Projects can support the recruitment, education, training, and retention of pre-professionals, students, faculty, and the current library and archives workforce. 

Project Type

Forum:

The Lake Region Arts Council offers the LRAC Operating Support Grant to enhance the arts' vitality in West Central Minnesota. This grant supports arts organizations with annual expenses below $174,000, focusing on fine arts and promoting community engagement. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to arts programming and be located within the nine-county LRAC region. The funding covers operational costs, ensuring organizations can stabilize and grow their artistic offerings.