Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Vermont

Cumberland Community Foundation ("CCF") manages more than 60 scholarship endowment funds created by local individuals, families, civic organizations, and corporations who want to provide a path to higher education for future generations. 

Each year, Cumberland Community Foundation announces more than $1,000,000 in college scholarships to students from southeastern North Carolina.

The Kiwanis Club of Cape Fear Scholarship

Cumberland International Early College; EE Smith High School; Village Christian Academy; Westover High School senior.

The Paul and Helen Lenchuk Engineering Student Scholarship Program, established by the NCMA Education and Research Foundation, aims to support full-time graduate students in engineering fields across the U.S. and Canada. With a focus on innovative uses of concrete masonry, this program awards a non-renewable $5,000 scholarship annually. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate proficiency in English, ensuring a commitment to advancing the concrete masonry and hardscape industry.

The Jon P Nelson Scholarship, administered by the Tulsa Community Foundation, supports students graduating from Oklahoma high schools who are pursuing engineering majors with an energy focus. Established in memory of Jon P. Nelson, a passionate advocate for education and community service, this scholarship prioritizes applicants with financial needs, fostering the next generation of engineers dedicated to making a positive impact in the energy sector.

About Us

Making a Difference, Together

The Community Foundation of Monroe County (CFMC) builds a thriving, inclusive community through the power of philanthropy. By connecting generous donors with local causes, we help ensure Monroe County remains a place where everyone can thrive. Since our founding, we’ve been a trusted steward of community resources, fostering impactful collaborations and sustainable solutions to address challenges in education, health, poverty, and community development.

Scholarship Opportunities

Whether you’re heading to college, pursuing a technical career, or furthering your education as an adult, there’s a scholarship for you.

Ahadi Women in Science Scholarship

For female graduating seniors from Monroe County high schools entering a science-related field.

The DLA Piper BRAVO Scholarship Program, managed by Scholarship America, supports veterans and student athletes pursuing legal careers. It aims to remove financial barriers and promote diversity in law by offering scholarships to qualified individuals. Eligible applicants must be 18 or older, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and plan to enroll in law school within a year. This initiative fosters discipline and resilience in pursuing legal education and careers.

Native Forward awards are allocated based on the financial aid information provided by the institution’s Financial Aid Office. Awards can vary, ranging from $100 to $30,000 per academic year.

Native Forward Scholars Fund members of federally and state-recognized Tribes as well as first and second-generation descendants. However, Native Forward Scholars Fund scholarship opportunities have different Tribal eligibility requirements and can be determined by submitting a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

Lynne Ruth Lafin Elmore Sucher Scholarship

This opportunity is provided to honor the life and legacy of Lynn Ruth Lafin Elmore Sucher.

The purpose of the Lynn Ruth Lafin Elmore Scholarship program is to provide financial assistance to eligible American Indian and Alaska Native graduate students attending full-time at an accredited institution pursuing mathematics, Medicine, or life sciences are eligible to apply.

This opportunity is a need-based award.

The Global Technology Industry Association (GTIA) Grant supports nonprofits and schools leveraging technology to enhance lives in under-resourced communities. GTIA provides funding for innovative solutions addressing challenges like broadband access and educational equity. Eligible applicants are encouraged to apply, especially those referred by GTIA members. Key focus areas include educational technology, bridging the digital divide, and workforce initiatives that promote equitable access to resources and opportunities.

Museums Empowered (2027) is a professional development initiative by the Institute of Museum and Library Services aimed at enhancing museum staff capabilities. It focuses on three vital areas: digital technology, evaluation, and organizational management. By supporting training and learning opportunities, the program seeks to empower museum professionals to effectively utilize digital tools, improve evaluation methods, and strengthen organizational resilience, ultimately fostering growth within museums of all types.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Leroy McKinney Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund

This scholarship was created in memory of Leroy McKinney Jr., who was a graduate of Battle Creek Central High School, Class of 1988. Upon graduation, he studied Pre-Engineering in college. He also had an entrepreneurial spirit. Though he struggled with mental illness, one of his proudest accomplishments in life, was returning to college as an adult and completing his Bachelor's degree in Business Management. He would be honored to know this scholarship was created in his legacy to support other African American men to pursue their education in these fields.

The AIAA Foundation Roger W. Kahn Scholarship honors Roger Kahn's legacy in aviation and jazz. Aimed at high school seniors pursuing engineering, it offers up to four $10,000 scholarships, along with mentorship from AIAA professionals. Eligible students must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 and demonstrate interest in aerospace. This initiative not only supports education but encourages underrepresented students to engage in the aerospace field, reflecting AIAA's commitment to diversity and excellence.

The Industrial Energy Storage Systems Prize, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy, offers $4.8 million to promote innovative thermal energy storage solutions for the industrial sector. With three phases from 2025 to 2026, participants can win cash prizes by developing cost-effective concepts to enhance energy efficiency. This initiative encourages the adoption of sustainable technologies to address energy demands while reducing the strain on the electric grid, supporting the overall decarbonization goals of the industry.

Generally the Community Foundation's scholarships are awarded to applicants who have high financial need. Applicants with household income exceeding $100,000 are less likely to be awarded, but applying will allow you to be considered for targeted scholarships.

Miller Johnson Michigan Diversity Law School Scholarship

Open to students of color accepted to or presently attending an accredited law school within the US with a permanent residence in Michigan or attending a Michigan law school with financial need and a minimum 3.0 GPA.

The National Leadership Grants for Libraries (NLG-L) program, funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, aims to enhance library services across the nation. By supporting projects that promote adult reading, health and financial literacy, and effective use of new technologies, this initiative fosters community prosperity and builds partnerships among libraries, archives, and museums. The grants ensure that libraries can respond effectively to public needs and enhance their contributions to education and information access.

Simon and Donna Dragan Scholarship Fund

Created in 2025 by Simon and Donna Dragan, this scholarship will provide financial support to students enrolled in a trade school to further their construction skills and/or students pursuing a two- or four-year college degree in engineering or construction. 

Simon Dragan is a native of Vurpar, Transylvania, Romania. He came to the United States after escaping Communist Romania in 1969 and held a variety of entry-level positions in the Baltimore area before finding work with Williams-Scotsman, a distributor of modular and mobile buildings. Mr. Dragan worked in various roles at Williams- Scotsman, ultimately serving as Executive Vice President of Operations. In 1993, he purchased Whitley Manufacturing from Williams-Scotsman—a factory located in South Whitley, Indiana—and developed it into one of the nation’s leading manufacturers of modular structures. Under his leadership, Whitley expanded from a single facility into a nationwide enterprise serving diverse markets including education, healthcare, government, retail, and commercial sectors.

A visionary leader in the modular construction industry, Mr. Dragan was inducted into the Modular Building Institute (MBI) Hall of Fame in 2002 in recognition of his lasting contributions to modular design and manufacturing excellence. In July 2025, Mr. Dragan sold Whitley Manufacturing to Sunbelt Modular, headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. Grateful for the opportunities he found in the United States, Mr. Dragan has given back extensively to various nonprofit organizations and charitable causes.

The Staff Research Program, initiated by the ARO, aims to enhance the professional skills of its scientific staff through collaborative basic research with external institutions. This program encourages hands-on scientific investigations in various fields, including engineering and life sciences, while ensuring the integrity of the ARO's mission. ARO scientists will not act as principal investigators on proposals but will contribute to research outcomes and educational activities, fostering knowledge advancement and collaboration.

The Mac Michaelis Scholarship, offered by the Central Kentucky Community Foundation, supports residents of Hardin County pursuing careers in law enforcement. Applicants must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0, with preference given to those with parents or guardians in law enforcement agencies. This scholarship aims to empower future law enforcement professionals and strengthen community ties through education and financial assistance.

The Fiscal Year 2027 AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP Competition invites communities to apply for funding aimed at engaging adults aged 55 and older in addressing pressing local needs. Through national service and volunteerism, AmeriCorps strengthens communities and fosters civic engagement. This open competition spans all states and territories, encouraging organizations to harness the skills and expertise of older adults to enhance community well-being and promote a culture of service.

The Sustainable Slopes Grant Program, initiated by the National Ski Areas Association in 2009, supports NSAA member ski areas in their sustainability efforts. With over $890,000 awarded, the program facilitates projects that enhance energy efficiency, protect natural habitats, and promote recycling. This year, applicants can apply for Cash Grants, the Herman K. Dupré Sustainable Snowmaking Grant, or the new Recycling Grant, all aimed at reducing environmental footprints and achieving sustainability goals.

The FY27 Communications and Networking Applied Research program aims to advance technologies essential for Naval operations. This initiative aligns with the Design for Maritime Superiority, focusing on the Naval Tactical Grid (NTG) to ensure seamless connectivity among distributed units. The technologies developed will operate under challenging conditions across multiple domains, enhancing command and control capabilities for effective decision-making in maritime and other operational theaters.

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds. 

Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

MassMutual Scholars Fund

To support graduating high school seniors from Springfield, MA or Enfield, CT interested in pursuing careers in financial services, business or information technology.

Additional Guidelines

• Students can receive up to $3,000 in scholarships from the Community Foundation.
• Scholarship awards could impact the financial aid offered by a college, and students are advised to check with their college financial aid offices about this.
• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. Some part and/or all the award could be considered taxable income. It is advisable students check with the college or tax accountant regarding this matter.

The Bolger Foundation Grant is dedicated to supporting capital projects that enhance tangible property for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Grants range from $10,000 to $250,000, with a maximum project budget of $2.5 million. The foundation focuses on community empowerment through conservation, health, and education, while excluding revenue-generating and operational costs. Eligible organizations must adhere to strict compliance with federal tax regulations. The mission is to inspire and empower nonprofits to better serve their communities.

The AECOM Academic Scholarship, offered by the American Water Works Association (AWWA), supports graduate students pursuing engineering degrees focused on innovative solutions for improving urban drinking water. This $5,000 scholarship aims to invest in the future of the water industry by aiding talented students dedicated to enhancing water supply systems. AWWA emphasizes the importance of education in fostering the next generation of water professionals.

The Ben May Charitable Trust, established in 1971 by Mr. Ben May, supports charitable, scientific, and educational initiatives. Notably, it has funded the Ben May Laboratory for Cancer Research at the University of Chicago, contributing to significant medical advancements. The Trust accepts funding requests from 501(c)(3) organizations. Mr. May's legacy includes support for renowned researchers and institutions, ensuring ongoing contributions to the field of medical science and education.

The Culture Works Leonard P. Roberts Memorial Scholarship honors Mr. Roberts' dedication to business and the arts. This scholarship is available for graduating high school seniors and current college students in the Dayton Region who actively participate in the arts. Eligible applicants must reside in specific counties and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to students majoring in the arts, business, or engineering, but all fields of study are welcome to apply.

About the Healthy Soils Program Block Grant

Through the Block Grant model, CDFA's Office of Agricultural Resilience and Sustainability (OARS), partners with regional organizations to administer local grant programs that support farmers and ranchers implementing healthy soils practices.

Block Grant Recipients work directly with producers in their region by providing outreach, technical assistance, and support throughout project implementation. These organizations manage the local application process, recommend projects for funding to CDFA, establish agreements with producers who carry out soil-health practices on their operations, and manage funded on-farm projects.

By working through trusted regional partners, the Block Grant model helps ensure funding reaches producers along with locally informed support and technical expertise, thus expanding the adoption of soil-building practices across California.

The Bernard Erlin Memorial Scholarship, offered by the ACI Foundation, honors the contributions of Erlin to the concrete industry. It provides financial support of $5,000 to deserving undergraduate or graduate students pursuing degrees related to concrete materials. Recipients will also receive recognition in Concrete International magazine. This scholarship aims to foster the next generation of leaders in the concrete sector, ensuring educational opportunities for passionate individuals committed to innovation in this field.

The Richard D. Stehly Memorial Scholarship, offered by the ACI Foundation, supports undergraduate students pursuing degrees in concrete-related fields, particularly in structural design, materials, or construction. Applicants must demonstrate community sustainability efforts in their essays. The scholarship provides a $5,000 educational stipend and recognition in Concrete International magazine. This opportunity is open to international students, and recipients will receive funds in two installments during the award cycle, which spans from fall to spring semester.