Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

FC Cincinnati Foundation

FC Cincinnati is committed to leaving a legacy, creating something bigger than ourselves, and being the embodiment of a rising Cincinnati. Through our own programs and initiatives, and the support of key partners, we aim to improve the lives of children through the game of soccer and will continue to do our part to create an inclusive community.

FC Cincinnati Foundation’s mission is accomplished primarily through five key programs: Club Ambassadorship through In-School and Out-of-School Programming, Mini Pitch Soccer Builds, West End Pride and Learning Is Cool. These programs help promote and encourage strong academic performance, and serve as catalysts to reinforce character values and improved health for children in the Greater Cincinnati region. The Foundation also serves as FC Cincinnati’s philanthropic arm, making donations and investments to Cincinnati-area organizations that have similar goals and ambitions for the area’s youth.

Donation Request

Donations are a way for FC Cincinnati to give back to local non-profit's as they are hosting fundraisers and events. These donations include, but are not limited to FCC signed merchandise items, FCC apparel items, and on special occasion, tickets to matches. Donations allow FC Cincinnati to show up across the city and support causes that are important to our fans, allowing us to connect with fans in a way that is meaningful to them. These items allow non-profits to use the donation for fundraising efforts and supporting their organization to raise money for a specific cause.

The Beazley Foundation Grants support educational, charitable, and religious initiatives, primarily awarding funds to 501(c)(3) organizations. While historically favoring projects in Portsmouth, the Foundation extends its reach throughout South Hampton Roads and beyond. Applicants must consult with the Foundation's president prior to submission, and grants are not available to individuals or for certain projects, including environmental and arts initiatives, unless deemed compelling by the Board.

The NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) Phase I program invites proposals for groundbreaking aerospace concepts, aiming to transform potential in aeronautics. This initiative supports innovative research through multiple award phases, focusing on Phase I requirements and evaluation criteria. A virtual forum will be held on October 7, 2026, to discuss the Appendix’s details and clarify submission guidelines. Additional information will be available on the NSPIRES page, ensuring participants are well-informed about the process.

NASA's Early Stage Innovations for In Situ Resource Utilization (ESI26-ISRU) aims to advance lunar water purification technologies. This initiative invites proposals from U.S. institutions to address civil-space needs, fostering collaboration among tenured and untenured faculty. With awards expected to commence in June 2027, NASA plans to allocate approximately three awards, contingent on proposal quality and funding availability. This solicitation emphasizes the importance of innovative solutions for sustainable lunar exploration.

The Nature Awards for Inspiring Women in Science celebrate outstanding contributions by women in STEM fields. These awards recognize early-career female researchers who demonstrate exceptional achievements, face challenges, and inspire the next generation through outreach. Winners receive prizes totaling $50,000, mentorship opportunities, and invitations to prestigious ceremonies. This initiative promotes inclusivity and aims to enhance the representation of women in science, thereby supporting a diverse and equitable scientific community.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) invites U.S. institutions of higher education to submit proposals for the Early Stage Innovations (ESI26) program. This initiative focuses on innovative, early-stage space technology research aligned with civil-space needs. Proposals are sought on topics such as advanced manufacturing for lunar missions and computational fluid dynamics. Only U.S. institutions are eligible, with a requirement for the Principal Investigator to be a tenured or tenure-track faculty member.

The NSF Core Research in Biological Sciences (BIO Core) program supports innovative research that enhances our understanding of biological systems, from molecular to biome scales. This funding opportunity encourages interdisciplinary proposals and can fund both single and multi-investigator projects. The awards will vary in scope and duration, accommodating exploratory projects and long-term commitments, depending on available funding and alignment with the program's objectives.

The AHRQ Mentored Clinical Scientist Research Career Development Award (K08) supports individual career development for health services researchers. This funding opportunity aims to cultivate a diverse group of trained researchers who can effectively address AHRQ's mission and priorities. Through mentorship and structured programs, applicants are equipped to enhance their research skills and contribute meaningfully to the field of health services research.

John Randolph Haynes And Dora Haynes Foundation

THE HAYNES FOUNDATION has been a force for change in the Los Angeles Region (comprised of the counties of Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino, Riverside, and Orange) for over nine decades. The Foundation’s founders, Dr. John Randolph Haynes and Dora Haynes were passionate advocates of involved citizenship who believed that through social science research, the Foundation not only could identify critical social and political problems in Los Angeles but also offer solutions to them. The Foundation awards major research grants on governance and democracy in the Los Angeles region, archival grants, doctoral dissertation fellowships, and faculty fellowships.

Major Research Grants

Governance and Democracy in the Los Angeles Region

Our initiative on Governance and Democracy funds high-quality planning and research grants that:

• Add significantly to knowledge and understanding of governance and democracy issues in the Los Angeles region (Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino, Riverside, and Orange counties).
• Help influence policies and practices.
• Offer promise of helping to improve the lives of people and our communities.

We expect researchers to seek opportunities to collaborate with community-based organizations and/or policymakers. We are open to all fields of study and disciplines that address governance and democracy in the Los Angeles region.

Special Foundation Focus: County Governance Reform

The Foundation particularly invites proposals focused on Los Angeles County governance reform, as well as county governance reform across the broader LA region. Applicants can view the full RFP, including suggested topics, here.

Grant Type

There are two grant types for the initiative on Governance and Democracy: Planning Grants and Research-to-Action Grants

Research-to-Action Grants

Research-to-action grants can be made for up to two years, with a third-year renewable that may be considered. The grant maximum is $250,000 per year. Depending on the nature of the research-to-action project, consideration may be given to a larger award.

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 National Science Foundation (NSF) is offering funding through the Engineering (ENG) program, focusing on foundational research in civil, mechanical, and manufacturing innovation. Key areas include advanced manufacturing systems, civil infrastructure, and intelligent dynamic systems. The NSF ENG encourages innovative and transformative proposals that may not require immediate commercial outcomes. Award sizes and durations will vary based on budget availability, aiming to support long-term research advancements.

The Nature Awards for Inspiring Women in Science, particularly in the Science Outreach category, honors initiatives that empower girls and young women in STEM fields. With a focus on engagement and retention, the awards aim to celebrate projects that encourage participation in natural sciences, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine. Winners will receive significant cash prizes and opportunities for mentorship, creating pathways for future generations of women in science.

The NIA — Neighbors in Action program, initiated in 2025, aims to empower community-driven projects in Rochester. With grants ranging from $250 to $10,000, it invites neighborhood associations, block clubs, and community organizations to apply. Established to revitalize local neighborhoods, NIA promotes resident engagement and action. Since its inception, it has funded numerous initiatives to enhance community connections and foster collaboration among residents, striving for a more connected and vibrant Rochester.

The Froderman Foundation Grant, established in 1961 by Mr. and Mrs. G. Harvey Froderman, supports qualified applicants focusing on religious, educational, medical, and charitable initiatives. The foundation promotes equity by considering applications without regard to race, creed, or color. Applicants must provide proof of 501(C)3 status and detailed plans for fund utilization, as general operating budgets are not typically funded. This grant aims to enhance impactful community projects.

The George J. & Effie L. Seay Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Virginia, focusing on arts, culture, education, and human services. Established in 1957, the foundation promotes various charitable programs and prefers funding specific projects over general operating grants. Grants are typically one year in duration, and organizations may not apply for another grant until three years after receiving funding. The foundation encourages collaboration with other funding sources to maximize support.

The Andover Greater Together Community Fund Grant aims to empower local organizations by providing financial support ranging from $250 to $10,000. Established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, this initiative encourages civic engagement and community ownership of local needs. It invites registered nonprofits and the Town of Andover to apply, fostering growth in philanthropy and volunteerism within the Greater Hartford region. This funding opportunity addresses community priorities while enhancing awareness of local challenges and opportunities.

About the KBF

Guided by a clear purpose and a deep sense of responsibility, the Kentucky Bar Foundation is committed to fueling access to justice and expanding legal knowledge throughout the Commonwealth. We envision a Kentucky where justice is within reach for all and we bring that vision to life through values rooted in integrity, compassion, service, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous growth.

Signature Justice Grant

We award a $50,000 grant to support bold, innovative projects that create lasting improvements in access to justice and legal education across Kentucky.

About the Signature Justice Grant 

The Signature Justice Grant is a new opportunity from the Kentucky Bar Foundation to invest in bold ideas that have the potential to make a meaningful and lasting difference. 

Unlike KBF's regular annual grants, which support a broad range of important programs and services throughout Kentucky, the Signature Justice Grant is intended for a single transformative project. 

KBF is looking for projects that are new, innovative, or represent a substantial expansion of an existing initiative. The project should address a significant need and have the potential to improve access to justice or expand legal knowledge in ways that can continue beyond the grant period. 

The Signature Justice Grant is an additional grant opportunity and will not replace or reduce KBF's regular annual grantmaking.

KBF is looking for projects that think differently about how access to justice or legal education can be improved. An innovative or transformative project may introduce a new approach, technology, partnership, service model, or resource; significantly expand the reach or impact of an existing program; or address a longstanding need in a new and potentially more effective way. 

The NIH Independent Scientist Award (K02) aims to support the development of promising scientists, providing three to five years of salary support and protected time for focused research. This funding opportunity is specifically for basic experimental studies involving human participants, classified as clinical trials. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a need for intensive research to advance their careers, and the proposed projects should align with the interests of the participating NIH Institutes and Centers.

The RJJB Family Foundation, established in 1997 by Rodney and Jeanna Pilot, aims to foster a legacy of philanthropy in coastal Alabama. Committed to supporting 501(c)(3) non-profits, the foundation focuses on education, community economic needs, and Christian ministry. Guided by the Pilot family's shared values and passions, the foundation strives to create lasting positive changes in the community, ensuring their contributions lead to causes of eternal significance.

About

Established in 1968, the VCA is the state agency dedicated to investing in the arts of Virginia. Through allocations made possible by the National Endowment for the Arts and the General Assembly, the VCA utilizes investments to empower arts leaders, arts educators, and arts practitioners. In doing so, we create a virtuous cycle of those who not just participate in and appreciate the arts, as stated in our enabling legislation, but those who serve as change agents and advance the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Mission Statement

To invest in the arts in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Capacity Building Grants

Purpose

Capacity Building Grants help Virginia arts organizations enhance artistic quality, strengthen community engagement, and improve management capabilities by providing access to external expertise.

Description

Capacity Building Grants provide targeted assistance for Virginia arts organizations seeking to strengthen their internal operations and sustainability. These grants help organizations access specialized expertise or training that supports strategic growth, improved management, and long-term effectiveness.

The Katrine Menzing Deakins Charitable Trust Grant supports organizations in Texas, particularly those serving Tarrant County. Established in 1987 by Katrine Deakins, the trust aims to benefit various charitable organizations. To be eligible for re-application, organizations must skip one grant cycle after receiving a grant. This ensures ongoing support for projects that align with the trust's mission of fostering education, health, and human services within the community.

The NE-AIPG Angelo Tagliacozzo Memorial Geological Scholarship (ATMGS) supports junior and senior undergraduate geology students in the NE Section, honoring Angelo Tagliacozzo's legacy. Established in 1986, the scholarship aims to encourage young geologists to pursue careers in geological sciences. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in accredited programs, on track for required credit hours, and can only receive the scholarship once. This initiative fosters early engagement with AIPG, emphasizing professional affiliation and support for the next generation of geologists.

The Minnie M. Jones Trust Grant, established in 1953, aims to enhance educational opportunities for underserved children in Texas. This private trust focuses on supporting organizations that provide quality education programming, with a preference for those serving youth in Denison and Grayson County. Grants are awarded for a duration of one year, emphasizing the importance of sustainable educational initiatives.

The White Family Foundation provides support to non-profit organizations that enhance community engagement through art and artistic elements. Their mission emphasizes empowering individuals, fostering cultural awareness, and improving well-being through access to the arts. Organizations seeking funding should demonstrate how their programs impact lives, educate youth, and develop leadership skills. The foundation primarily serves Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts, focusing on enriching the community and promoting collaboration.

Please note that all applications are required to address both objectives.

• Objective 1: Development and Implementation of CBE programming
  • The grant’s primary objective is focused on the implementation, evaluation, and expansion of the EV competency-based education (CBE) framework.
  • Programs span the EV Technology occupational continuum from development and production to maintenance and body work for Electric Vehicles, as well as installation and maintenance of critical infrastructure, and are listed in Section D of the attached PDF..
• Objective 2: Wraparound Student Supports
  • This objective focuses on colleges designing or implementing programs with a student-centered approach as they create or implement curriculum.
  • A strong student support model includes effective strategies for recruitment, retention, and comprehensive services that help students succeed.
  • Uses of funds can include, but are not limited to:
    • Investments in academic advising and career guidance
    • Supplemental instruction
    • Wraparound support services and barrier reduction (academic and non-academic)
    • Community needs assessments
    • Partnering with community-based organizations to braid barrier reduction funding

The Helen and Ritter Shumway Foundation Grant aims to support conservation and historic preservation in Rochester, New York, and nearby areas. This grant encourages charitable organizations to submit requests for general operating and program support, particularly focusing on traditionally underserved communities. The foundation, established by Helen S. Mayer, also honors the legacy of her brother, Ritter Shumway, by backing causes they valued. Applications for endowment campaigns or capital projects are typically not accepted.

The NSF Mid-scale Research Infrastructure-1 Program supports projects that enhance research capabilities in science and engineering. This program provides funding for both design and implementation of mid-scale research infrastructure, emphasizing the development of a diverse workforce. By addressing specific community needs and promoting competitive research environments, the program encourages innovative approaches to infrastructure development. Proposals may involve upgrades, new acquisitions, or design efforts aimed at successful implementation of vital research tools.