Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

The Jefferson Community Foundation Grant supports not-for-profit initiatives aimed at benefiting the Jefferson School District community. It funds projects that are educational, cultural, charitable, or innovative, with a focus on addressing community needs. Grants are awarded biannually, and applicants must be tax-exempt organizations serving the public. This fund aims to enhance the community's future by supporting meaningful projects within a one-year timeframe.

The L’Oréal USA For Women in Science Fellowship empowers women postdoctoral scientists by providing annual grants to support their research in STEM fields. This initiative not only recognizes their contributions but also encourages them to serve as role models for future generations. With a long-standing partnership with the AAAS, the program has awarded over $5 million to 105 scientists, demonstrating a strong commitment to advancing women's roles in science and technology.

General Operating Support (GOS)

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (CAH) is soliciting applications from qualified arts, humanities, or arts education organizations for its Fiscal Year 2027 General Operating Support Grant Program (GOS). Award amounts vary. An award to an individual organization with an annual operating budget exceeding $115,000 may not exceed 50% of the organization's annual operating budget exclusive of funds granted by the Commission on the Arts and Humanities.

Applicants may submit one (1) grant application to this program per fiscal year cycle.

• Single Year Applicants
• Multi-year Applicants
• Capacity Building Applicants

Capacity Building Applicants

Applicant organizations must not have previously received a competitive grant award from CAH.

This category consists of arts and humanities organizations whose primary purpose is to present and/or produce arts and humanities experiences for the residents of, and visitors to, the District of Columbia. This cohort will support arts and humanities organizations that have not previously been awarded a competitive grant by CAH. Organizations must have been in operation for at least one year by the start of the fiscal year to which they are applying. Capacity Building needs can include but are not limited to staff training, longer organizational initiatives, and sector-strengthening that increases access and awareness of programs for the DC community. 

The Makulinski Family Foundation Grant supports nonprofit and charity organizations, emphasizing sustainable community development. With a commitment to lasting change, MFF actively matches investments to amplify their impact, ranging from 10:1 to 1:2 based on beneficiary needs. The foundation welcomes proposals from various regions, including Ohio, Michigan, and South Carolina, and encourages applications that align with their mission. Interested parties can access the grant request form to submit their proposals.

The Beavers Heavy Construction Scholarship at Montana State University provides financial support for students pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering or Construction Engineering Technology. This scholarship aims to assist those demonstrating outstanding academic records and potential for success in the heavy construction industry. Awards vary, making this opportunity accessible to a wide range of applicants. Students are encouraged to apply and benefit from the resources available at Montana State University to further their educational goals.

Steve Wagner Scholarship

Steve Wagner retired as executive director of the American Council of Engineering Companies of Michigan (ACEC/M) in 2003 after 34 years of service. As a member of the Capitol Club and Michigan Society of Association Executives, Steve was well respected by his peers and colleagues and is known for his honesty and integrity.

Steve and his wife, Lana, were married in 1965 and have two daughters, Shelley and Whitney. Throughout his career, Steve has been a proponent of community service and has given many hours himself to church and community programs. Steve also has been a strong proponent of education. ACEC/M has established this scholarship in honor of Steve Wagner to award engineering and surveying students who, like Steve, are active in the community and find it important and necessary to give something back.

The Shelby Foundation Grant aims to enhance community quality of life by providing financial assistance to 501(c)(3) organizations and government agencies. By supporting local schools and programs, the foundation seeks to foster a safe, prosperous environment for residents. The initiative focuses on one-time grants for specific purposes, excluding funding for annual operating expenses or projects tied to regular school curriculums, thus ensuring impactful community development.

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 St. Joseph's Home Legacy of Care Fund, established by the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln, supports various programs and charitable initiatives in Central Illinois. This fund encourages eligible nonprofit organizations, including 501(c)(3) charities and faith-based entities, to apply for funding throughout the year. The foundation aims to adapt and respond to the evolving needs of the community, ensuring that support reaches those who need it most.

The Kelley Foundation

The Kelley Foundation was established by Robert and Judy Kelley and their daughter Marla. The Kelleys are native Oklahomans and longtime residents of Southern Oklahoma.

The foundation is primarily focused on humanitarian projects in Oklahoma, with an emphasis on Southern Oklahoma. Our mission is to develop and strengthen our community, state, and nation by providing essential resources to those in need.

The Kelley Foundation Grant

The Kelley Foundation is a private, charitable foundation, incorporated under the laws of the State of Oklahoma and operated exclusively for providing support through its gifts and grants to religious, charitable, scientific, and educational institutions which are qualified under section 501(c)(3) and which are not private foundations within the meaning of section 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Service Code.

The Marietta McNeill Morgan & Samuel Tate Morgan, Jr. Trust, established in 1962, aims to enhance educational and human services in Virginia. It focuses on specific capital expenditures rather than general campaigns. The Trust encourages matching and challenge grants while excluding requests for debt reduction, scholarships, and funds for media production. Grants are not available to individuals or government agencies primarily funded by tax revenue, ensuring that resources are directed to impactful community projects.

The NSF NCAR Advanced Study Program (ASP) Graduate Visitor Program (GVP) Fellowship provides an enriching opportunity for graduate students to collaborate with NSF NCAR scientists on their research projects. It supports visits of 2 to 3 months, covering travel and housing costs. Eligible candidates include advanced Master’s and Ph.D. students focused on atmospheric sciences and related fields. The program encourages professional development through workshops and allows for potential extensions with co-sponsorship. Applications for the 2026 program are now open.

About us

With roots in the Unitarian and Congregational traditions, the First Parish in Lincoln (FPL) celebrates many theologies and spiritual beliefs. We advocate inclusion and respect for all people. We gather each Sunday for worship at 10 a.m. During Sunday worship, we offer church school for school-aged children as well as nursery care for toddlers and preschoolers. Following worship, we come together at “coffee hour,” an ideal time to meet the minister and members of the congregation, as well as get information about the church.

Throughout the year, we rejoice in marking the changing seasons. Our celebrations range from a water communion welcoming all in September; winter concerts, solstice and Christmas Eve services, and children’s pageant in December; to the annual publication of a Lenten booklet filled with personal submissions from parishioners and the celebration of Easter in the spring.

The community of First Parish draws many members. Whether encountering friends and neighbors on Sunday, volunteering in the church school, or working on committees and service projects, our members and friends embrace the collective whole, recognizing that we are not alone, that we are part of a strong and supportive community.

Parishioners are instrumental in helping to run the church. While there is a core staff in place to provide the essentials, our members and friends come together to support the church in whatever way they are able. In addition to financial support, this can include arranging flowers for the pulpit, serving on a committee, teaching Sunday School, or helping with a special event.

Jean Wood Preston Grant

The First Parish in Lincoln has the honor of choosing the recipients of annual grants from this fund established by a longtime member of our community. In recent years the grants have been as much as $25,000, and may be used for one-time capital projects or Transformative Innovation initiatives.

The RSA–Virginia Fox Stern Center Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for scholars to conduct intensive research at the Johns Hopkins University Sheridan Libraries. This one-month fellowship focuses on pre-1800 rare book and manuscript collections, particularly the Women of the Book Collection and the Bibliotheca Fictiva Collection. It encourages innovative research that contributes to Renaissance studies, supporting scholars across all disciplines and career levels.

The Crystelle Waggoner Charitable Trust supports charitable organizations in the arts and social services, with a focus on those operating in Tarrant County. Established by Crystelle Waggoner, the trust provides grants ranging from $15,000 to $40,000. Eligible organizations must have been in existence since before January 24, 1982, and must wait one grant cycle before reapplying for funding. The trust aims to continue Waggoner's legacy of supporting the community.

The PLTW Gateway program, supported by Arrow Electronics, offers $20,000 in grants for schools in the Atlanta area to enhance STEM education. Schools must implement PLTW Gateway units over two academic years, ensuring comprehensive STEM curriculum development. Eligible institutions include public and charter schools within 25 miles of Alpharetta, GA. The grant covers necessary equipment and training, fostering innovative learning environments and preparing students for future careers in technology and engineering.

The Jack Lewis Safety Fund, established by the Walter Scott Family Foundation, honors Dr. Jack K. Lewis and supports Nebraska and southwest Iowa communities. Grants up to $50,000 are available for safety-related projects, including equipment, training, and facility improvements. Applicants must serve communities with 5,000 or fewer residents or be located in specific counties. Priority is given to projects showcasing local fundraising and collaboration. Applications are accepted year-round with specific deadlines for review cycles.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency will improve outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems. TEA, under the leadership of the commissioner of education, carries out the following functions:

• Administers the distribution of state and federal funding to public schools
• Administers the statewide assessment program and accountability system
• Provides support to the State Board of Education (SBOE) in the development of the statewide curriculum
• Assists the SBOE in the instructional materials adoption process and managing the instructional materials distribution process
• Administers a data collection system on public school information
• Performs the administrative functions and services of the State Board for Educator Certification
• Supports agency operations, including carrying out duties related to the Permanent School Fund
• Monitors for compliance with certain federal and state guidelines.

Online Educator Resources Production and Maintenance Services

The purpose of the 2026–2029 Online Educator Resources Production and Maintenance Services grant is to provide and support content development, adaptation, management, and maintenance of professional learning content and instructional resources within TEA Learn, the statewide Learning Management System (LMS). This grant offers strategic support for the development of professional, high-quality learning resources, from project planning and learning design to media production and marketing, it additionally provides support for the transition of existing instructional materials into accessible, high-quality digital formats, optimized for delivery through Canvas and other supported platforms. Services include project planning, instructional design for platform integration, media production, and marketing. These digital professional learning resources are designed to enhance instructional practices and support educators across Texas. The grant also supports the expansion of TEA’s digital credentialing program and the sustainability of online and hybrid learning offerings.

The Associates of the Montana Contractors Association Scholarship supports students pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering at Montana State University. This scholarship, which varies in amount, is intended for full-time students who maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and have junior status or higher. Montana State University is committed to providing exceptional educational opportunities and financial support to students with strong academic records and potential for success.

The Anna C. & Oliver C. Colburn Fellowships support pre-doctoral students and recent PhD graduates in their archaeological studies at the American School of Classical Studies in Athens, Greece. Funded by the Archaeological Institute of America, these fellowships aim to foster an understanding of diverse cultures through archaeology. Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. or Canada and demonstrate ethical practice in their research. Preference is given to those not affiliated with ASCSA.

The Duke Endowment's Rural Church Grants aim to empower rural United Methodist Churches in North Carolina to effectively respond to changing community demographics. By providing resources and fostering collaboration among church leaders, the program enhances congregational capacity and community engagement. Key strategies include supporting pastoral leaders, reimagining church real estate for community use, and implementing impactful programs, especially for children. This initiative reflects a commitment to ensuring equitable opportunities across diverse rural populations.

The Warner Area Community Foundation Grant, part of the South Dakota Community Foundation, aims to enhance philanthropy by supporting local nonprofits and providing scholarships. This grant allows for the administration of charitable gifts and focuses on fulfilling basic needs while improving the quality of life in the region. By empowering local organizations, it fosters community development and encourages youth engagement through educational opportunities.

Who We Are

Our mission is to enhance the quality of life in our region.

We pursue our mission through resource development, community grantmaking, collaboration and public leadership — connecting passion to purpose since 1973.

In the early 1970s, a group of estate-planning attorneys learned of a sizeable estate gift that left Springfield because there wasn’t a place here to accept a general gift for community betterment. Those 11 founders, supported by then-Springfield Mayor Jim Payne and businesswoman Anne Drummond, created the region’s first public charitable foundation in 1973.

Today, the CFO is governed by community volunteers and run by a professional staff that serves a network of donors, regional affiliate foundations, nonprofit partners and professional advisors through approximately 3,700 charitable funds.

Finley River Affiliate Grantmaking Program

The Finley River Community Foundation works to improve the quality of life for individuals in Finley River Community Foundation through thoughtful grantmaking and community leadership. The Finley River Community Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors, chosen for their knowledge of the area. Grant decisions are made by the grant committee. The unique role of a community foundation is to conduct a flexible community grantmaking program which addresses the most important needs of the community at any one time. The flexibility this requires is made possible by charitable donors who established unrestricted or field-of-interest funds and place the decision-making in the hands of the community leaders serving on our Board of Directors as well as dollars raised by the Finley River Community Foundation.

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 PLTW Computer Science program, in partnership with Arrow Electronics, offers $20,000 in grants for schools to implement or expand their computer science curriculum. Targeting schools in the Atlanta area, it supports the introduction of new courses each academic year. Eligible institutions must be located within 25 miles of Alpharetta, GA, and must adhere to specific program requirements. The funding can be used for necessary equipment, training, and program-related expenses.

The Holt Family Foundation, originally founded as The Daybrook Foundation post-Hurricane Katrina, aims to enhance community life in Louisiana. It offers grants to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations focusing on arts, early childhood education, and community engagement. Additionally, the Foundation provides college scholarships to Louisiana students, emphasizing innovative programs and education to foster positive community development. Its mission reflects the founder's commitment to supporting local families and organizations.

The CERSP Grant Program, administered by Harlem CDC, aims to provide financial assistance for initiatives and events that align with the mission of Harlem CDC. Funded through contributions from Columbia University, this program supports community and economic revitalization efforts in New York State, promoting local economic growth and job creation. With a focus on inclusivity and development, CERSP seeks to enhance the quality of life and opportunities within diverse neighborhoods.