Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Utah

The Vanguard

Remuseum announces The Vanguard, an award and accelerator for innovative leaders in the visual and performing arts, in partnership with the Doris Duke Foundation. The Vanguard’s $100,000 annual award will recognize up to ten leaders who are exploring new ways to strengthen arts institutions, and a year-long accelerator will help them refine, implement, and evaluate their ideas. The first award and accelerator of its kind, The Vanguard celebrates leaders who are ready to center the public in their work in new ways, building models for increased relevance and sustainability in the arts.

The Program

The $100,000 grant that accompanies each award will go to that leader’s institution, to support ideas developed in The Vanguard’s 12-month accelerator program. That program begins with a week-long retreat at Shangri La, the Doris Duke Foundation’s global center for culture and ideas in Honolulu, Hawaii, followed by a year of monthly coaching sessions, regional peer gatherings, and collaborative workshops, culminating in a public presentation of their work and findings to the broader arts community. The accelerator and its curriculum, tailored specifically for cultural leaders, has been designed by Jenny Larios Berlin, entrepreneur in the creative and tech sectors and Lecturer at MIT Sloan School of Management, and will be co-taught with Gregory Bunch, entrepreneur and Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and will be advised by Ethernet Inventors Professor of Entrepreneurship Bill Aulet, Managing Director of the Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship.

By year’s end, members of The Vanguard will have built an intellectual kinship with each other while modeling a spirit of innovative leadership for the field. Remuseum will continue evaluating and sharing their work as case studies for cultural organizations broadly, and future classes will continue expanding a Vanguard of leaders (10, then 20, and on) who build models of success for cultural organizations in the 21st Century, allowing arts & cultural institutions not just to survive but to support a stronger and more pluralistic civil society.

The NRC Research Associateship Grant Program, managed by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, provides prestigious research opportunities for postdoctoral and senior scientists at federal laboratories. This program promotes scientific excellence through mentorship and access to advanced facilities. Eligible candidates must hold a relevant doctorate and demonstrate significant research potential. With annual deadlines on February 1, May 1, August 1, and November 1, this initiative aims to enhance the career development of promising researchers.

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.

Raymond and Paulette Cox Scholarhsip (Piedmont)

Provides scholarship to a Piedmont graduating senior with a GPA of 3.0-3.00, attending a two- or four-year college or university and majoring in health services or public service.

The U.S. Venture/Schmidt Family Foundation supports initiatives that drive self-sufficiency and community enrichment for vulnerable populations. With over $4.31 million awarded last year, the foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate measurable impact and foster stronger communities. Eligible organizations include those designated as public charities by the IRS. The foundation emphasizes collaboration with other funders, avoiding sole financial support to ensure comprehensive community development.

Armstrong County Community Foundation

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Richard and Mary Krauland Scholarship

This scholarship was established to provide scholarship funding to pursue a career in math or engineering.

Scholarship Details

• Available to High School Seniors
• Nonrenewable

All ACCF Scholarships are merit based.

The Hardin County Principal Organization Scholarship, offered by the Central Kentucky Community Foundation, aims to support graduating seniors from Hardin County Schools who plan to pursue a career in education. Applicants must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. This scholarship serves as a stepping stone for future educators, ensuring they have the financial resources to achieve their academic goals and contribute positively to their communities.

The Infrastructure Innovation for Biological Research Program by NSF aims to enhance contemporary biology through innovative research tools and methods. It focuses on developing or redesigning infrastructure in bioinformatics, instrumentation, and research methods. Projects should significantly advance biological understanding and be applicable to a wider research community. Proposals should aim at transforming biological research by either creating novel tools or adapting existing ones in meaningful ways, addressing fundamental questions in the biological sciences.

The Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) orchestrates the basic research program for the Air Force Research Laboratory, aligning with technical guidance and Air Force needs. It promotes collaboration among Air Force, universities, and industry, ensuring that research effectively transitions to support military capabilities. AFOSR's focus encompasses significant areas of research organized under two scientific departments, enhancing national defense and peacekeeping operations.

The NNLM CHIS Training Award Year 5 aims to enhance the capabilities of rural and small library staff in providing reliable health information. This initiative not only supports health literacy but also promotes community engagement by enabling awardees to conduct CHIS classes. By utilizing existing materials, participants can present these classes in various formats, ensuring broader access to essential health resources. This award fosters local health information leaders, ultimately improving public health outcomes.

The AWWA Larson Aquatic Research Support Scholarships, administered by the American Water Works Association, honor Dr. Thurston E. Larson by providing financial support for graduate students in science or engineering. Annually, two scholarships are awarded: $5,000 for master's students and $7,000 for doctoral students. This initiative reflects AWWA's commitment to fostering future leaders in the water industry while recognizing the contributions of Dr. Larson.

About Us

Harbor Freight is America’s #1 Tool Store with more than 1600 locations nationwide. Founded in 1977 by Eric Smidt, the company began as a small mail-order tool business in North Hollywood, California. Over 75 million customers have come to Harbor Freight for our unmatched assortment of quality tools at an unbeatable value, including automotive, air and power tools, storage, outdoor power equipment, generators, welding supplies, shop equipment, hand tools, and much more.

Harbor Freight Tools Gift Card Donation Requests

If you are a Harbor Freight Associate and have been affected by an unexpected, unavoidable crisis and are in financial need, please apply to our Employee Emergency Relief Fund (EERF). To apply, go to www.myHFT.com to review our FAQs, guidelines, eligibility requirements and application form.

For all other donation requests, please note that we have recently updated our criteria. You can find the current eligibility requirements below.

All donations are given in the form of Harbor Freight Store gift cards. We do not provide cash donations, event sponsorships or support for individuals.

Harbor Freight Tools proudly supports the following:

Skilled Trades Education

• Skilled trades classes that emphasize the expert use of tools and materials to build, repair and maintain products and structures. Fields include Agricultural Mechanics, Carpentry, Construction, Electrical, HVAC, Advanced Manufacturing, Plumbing, Transportation Mechanics and Repair, and Welding
• Donation requests must be submitted by a K-12 public-school teacher for their own school/classroom. Harbor Freight store gift cards are given directly to the school/teacher requesting one. We do not provide donations to outside organizations, clubs or third parties.

The CTIA Wireless Foundation's Catalyst Grant Program aims to empower social entrepreneurs leveraging 5G technology to tackle critical challenges in American communities. With over $200,000 in unrestricted grants available, the program supports innovative projects that utilize 5G connectivity for social good. As 5G transforms communication and interaction, the Catalyst Grant seeks visionary leaders who can harness this potential to inspire meaningful change and enhance community engagement.

Individual Provider Grants empower medical providers to contribute to communities through medical mission trips. These grants fund nonprofit organizations to assist with program costs. Applications are accepted year-round, but should ideally be submitted 30-60 days prior to the mission for timely processing. The Making a Difference Foundation reviews all applications monthly; however, meeting eligibility does not ensure funding at the requested amount.

The NIH Common Fund Data Ecosystem aims to enhance the reusability of biomedical data through collaboration between Common Fund programs and external data resources. This funding opportunity encourages projects that connect various biomedical data ecosystems, including the HEAL Data Ecosystem and the BRAIN Initiative. By fostering partnerships, the initiative seeks to improve the accessibility and interoperability of valuable datasets, ultimately advancing research efforts. Note that clinical trials are excluded from this funding opportunity.

The Johanna Favrot Fund for Historic Preservation, established in 1994, supports public agencies and nonprofit organizations in their efforts to preserve historic environments. With grants ranging from $2,500 to $15,000, this highly competitive funding opportunity aims to foster appreciation for cultural heritage and enhance community livability. Eligible activities include planning, education, and preservation projects. Applicants must match the grant dollar-for-dollar and adhere to specific guidelines to ensure the success of their initiatives.

The Felix E. Martin Jr. Foundation Community Leadership Fund provides essential support for leadership development in Muhlenberg County, KY. It aims to empower individuals and groups seeking innovative solutions to local challenges. Eligible applicants include those pursuing personal leadership growth or researching effective community strategies. The fund underscores inclusivity, welcoming diverse applicants without discrimination. This initiative fosters a vibrant community by equipping leaders with the resources needed to effect positive change.

The Plant America Community Project Grant, offered by the National Garden Clubs, supports initiatives that enhance public spaces and community gardens. Grants of up to $2,000 are available for projects that educate and engage both adults and children in gardening. Since 2017, over 250 grants have been awarded, totaling more than $225,000. Eligible applicants include member clubs, focusing on beautification, restoration, and environmental education.

The Development of Fiscal Year 2027 Commercial Vehicle Safety Plans aims to enhance national safety goals by reducing incidents involving commercial motor vehicles. This initiative, funded by the US Department of Transportation's FMCSA, provides crucial financial support to states and territories. Through the Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program, the focus is on minimizing crashes, injuries, and fatalities associated with commercial vehicle operations, ensuring safer roads for all.

The BJS FY 2026 National Criminal History Improvement Program (NCHIP) Training and Technical Assistance aims to enhance the accuracy and accessibility of criminal history records. By providing direct technical assistance to states, territories, and tribal jurisdictions, the program ensures compliance with FBI standards and promotes the use of advanced technologies. This initiative supports the DOJ’s objective to reduce violent crime and improve public safety through effective criminal background checks and information sharing.

The Michigan Animal Health Foundation offers research and education grants to enhance animal health and welfare. Since 1977, these grants have supported nearly 50 projects aimed at improving veterinary care and medical techniques. Eligibility varies, with specific criteria for research grants, while educational grants have no restrictions. Researchers and educators alike can benefit from this funding, which plays a vital role in advancing animal health initiatives.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

Robert Paul Dost Scholarship Endowment (Regional)

Available to graduating high school seniors in Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Leelanau Counties who are planning to pursue electrical engineering. 

The B-INSPIRE program aims to foster behavioral interventions that enhance interest and preparedness for careers in biomedical research. It invites applications that propose innovative studies addressing motivation and persistence in research-oriented individuals. The initiative also encourages analyses of existing data to improve intervention methodologies. Successful projects should yield findings that support the implementation of diverse strategies across academic levels, ultimately enriching the biomedical research workforce.

The Laura Bush Foundation for America’s Libraries offers financial support to underfunded schools to enhance their library collections, promoting literacy and a passion for reading. Eligible applicants include Title 1 public schools and private institutions with at least 50% of students qualifying for financial aid. The grant funds can be utilized exclusively for books, periodicals, and subscriptions, ensuring that all students have access to diverse reading materials. Applications require a designated librarian and completion of necessary documentation.

Ann Lane Gates Scholarship Fund

Established by Ann Lane Gates to provide scholarships for Project GRAD Akron Public Schools students.

Amount:

• Varies $500-$1,500

Number of awards:

• Varies

Renewal:

• Renewable for three additional years. Must maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA, continue to pursue a degree in education, and reapply annually by submission of a new application.

The NewSchools: Learning Solutions Grant Program aims to empower K-8 students by enhancing their literacy and numeracy skills, crucial for overcoming educational challenges exacerbated by the pandemic. With a focus on innovative learning solutions, the program seeks to fund early-stage ideas that engage students and support educators. By leveraging research and technology, including generative AI, it aims to create equitable educational opportunities, fostering a brighter future for all students.

The Institute of Education Sciences (IES) offers a grant to support state education agencies in utilizing longitudinal data systems to inform policies and programs for learners with disabilities. This initiative aims to enhance evidence-based decision-making at both state and local levels, ensuring better educational outcomes for at-risk students. The grant encourages collaboration and effective use of data to promote informed policymaking in special education.