Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Vermont

The Cancer Research Education Grants Program (R25) aims to enhance the training of a skilled workforce in biomedical research. This program supports innovative educational activities focused on skills development in cancer research, addressing critical areas such as diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. Deadlines for applications are set for January, May, and September from 2024 to 2026, encouraging diverse proposals that meet the needs of cancer patients and their families.

The Sanofi-Regeneron Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Mid-Career Award, funded by the Dermatology Foundation, supports exceptional researchers committed to addressing dermatological issues affecting underrepresented groups. Offering $100,000 annually for up to three years, this award emphasizes projects that enhance understanding and improve health equity in dermatology. Eligibility includes a strong research commitment, relevant training, and a faculty appointment within 12 years of becoming an Assistant Professor. It encourages minority applicants to foster diversity in medical research.

The Gunvor Lund Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, awards between $500 and $2,000 to students from Southeastern Connecticut pursuing studies in engineering or the sciences. Since 1983, over $11.9 million has been distributed through various funds to support students in their educational journeys. Scholarship awards are paid directly to colleges by August 1, aiding students in achieving their academic and career goals.

The Gilbert W. Mead III Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports students from Southeastern Connecticut who show talent in the Arts and have financial need. Offering an award of $500, the scholarship aims to assist these students in pursuing their educational goals. Priority is given to those with physical limitations or disabilities, reinforcing the foundation's commitment to inclusive education since 1983.

The Ashley and Sarah Abel Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors two sisters who cherished their bond and creativity. Designed for graduates or undergraduates from Region 14 high schools pursuing careers in English, literature, or communications, this scholarship reflects the sisters' dedication to education and artistic expression. It aims to support students in achieving their college dreams, continuing the legacy of Ashley and Sara Abel's passion for learning and community involvement.

Mission: To continually improve the Marion Area community through philanthropy, leadership and civic engagement. Marion Elks Lodge No. 32 ScholarshipThe Benevolent & Protective Order of the Elks is a fraternal service organization with more than 600 members in Marion. The Marion Lodge, the second in Ohio, was instituted in 1885 and recognizes former U.S. President Warren G. Harding as a member.

The Elks Scholarship at Marion Community Foundation was established in 2004 and grows annually with regular contributions from Lodge members. It makes awards to students from Marion and contiguous counties who are in the upper 40th percentile of their graduating class and maintain a GPA of 2.5 or better. Recipients are determined based on an essay which demonstrates their understanding of the ideals and mission of the Benevolent & Protective Order of the Elks and a commitment to the social values embodied by members of the Elks.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Mission: To continually improve the Marion Area community through philanthropy, leadership and civic engagement. Kaufman Family Memorial ScholarshipThe Kaufman Family Memorial Scholarship Fund was created in 2019 to honor the adventurous spirit of Martin T. Kaufman II. 

The Catherine Aileen Smith-Jones Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports graduating high school seniors who are members of Holy Family Catholic Church and plan to attend an accredited four-year college or university in the United States. This scholarship honors Cathy Smith-Jones, who valued community, resilience, and the gift of life, leaving a lasting legacy through her organ donations and commitment to helping others.

Mission: To continually improve the Marion Area community through philanthropy, leadership and civic engagement. Harris ScholarshipThe Harris Scholarship Fund was created in 2017 by the LaRue United Methodist Church to honor the generosity of the late Everett and Elvida Harris and to support students active with the church.In addition to being a current and active member of the LaRue Methodist Church, recipients of the Harris Scholarship will be a high school senior, graduate, or candidate for graduation from any high school in Marion County with a GPA of 2.0 or greater.

The Gilbert Cook Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors Gilbert Cook, a devoted community leader and philanthropist. This scholarship aims to support graduating seniors from local high schools planning to attend accredited colleges or universities. Through this initiative, the foundation continues its mission of fostering educational opportunities and empowering students to achieve their dreams, thereby contributing to a thriving Abilene community.

The Harold Dean Wade Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors a dedicated Christian educator who believed in the transformative power of education. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from Texas and Oklahoma who plan to attend Christian colleges or universities full-time. Applicants must rank in the top 15% of their class, ensuring that deserving students continue to pursue their academic dreams while upholding Harold's legacy of service and education.

The Tulsa Achievement Investment Scholarship of Kappa Alpha Psi, established by the Tulsa Community Foundation, supports collegiate members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. This scholarship targets students who graduated from Tulsa County high schools and plan to attend accredited colleges in the U.S. Founded in 1998, TCF is dedicated to enhancing community welfare through philanthropic efforts, investing in educational opportunities to foster growth and development in Tulsa and beyond.

Mission: To continually improve the Marion Area community through philanthropy, leadership and civic engagement. Gladys & Everett Granger Memorial ScholarshipThe Granger Scholarship is a faith-based award and is given annually to college students from the Marion area. Special consideration is given to applicants who are members of Trinity Baptist Church, St. Mary Catholic Church, or employees of an assisted living facility located in Marion County. The Granger Fund was created in 2012 by the couple’s children, B.J. Granger, Margaret Vogel and Judith Granger. 

Mission: To continually improve the Marion Area community through philanthropy, leadership and civic engagement. Eula M. Rhoads ScholarshipThe Eula M. Rhoads Scholarship Fund makes awards to Marion area high school seniors in the top 25 percent of their graduating class and graduates who maintain a college GPA of 3.0 or better. Special consideration is given to those pursuing a degree in pharmacy or veterinary medicine at an Ohio college.

The Joan & Bob Rutman Scholarship, established in 2001 by longtime New London residents, aims to support graduating high school seniors from various Connecticut towns in pursuing four-year degrees. With an approximate award of $4,000, this scholarship reflects the Rutmans' commitment to giving back to their community. Financial need is taken into consideration, ensuring that deserving students receive the assistance they need to further their education and build successful careers.

The Stephanie Gorsh Memorial Scholarship offers up to $800 to students in need, specifically targeting graduates from Scott County, IA. Eligible applicants must enroll in an accredited two- or four-year institution or a trade school, demonstrate financial need, and have a minimum GPA of 2.25. Community service is also a key factor in the selection process. This scholarship is not renewable, making it a one-time financial aid opportunity.

Napa Valley Community Foundation

There are more than 800 Community Foundations in the US, each devoted to a specific region. We operate independently, with a common goal in mind: to be a platform for local people who want to pay it forward. To deliver resources to effective charitable programs. And to make our communities stronger and more successful by doing these two things.

Among our peers, Napa Valley Community Foundation ranks first on several key measures of donor satisfaction and impact, according to a recent donor survey conducted by the Center for Effective Philanthropy. Our donors say that we deeply understand their interests, and deeply understand the needs of Napa Valley. That, in a nutshell, is our job.

Barbara J. “BJ” Wells Scholarship

The Barbara J. “BJ” Wells Scholarship benefits graduating Napa County high school seniors and community college transfer students who will find the cost of higher education a financial hardship and who grew up in a household where English was not their first language spoken. Recipients must be planning to pursue a bachelor’s degree, either by enrolling directly at a four-year college/university or by beginning their studies at a community college before transferring. Recipients of the scholarship will receive funding for up to four years while working to complete their bachelor’s degree.

The Robert D. and Dorothy M. Powers Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors from New Britain, CT, pursuing a bachelor’s degree. This scholarship prioritizes academic achievement and financial need, ensuring that deserving students can continue their education and achieve their aspirations. With a strong commitment to community development, CFGNB aims to empower students and foster a brighter future for the region.

The William P. and Janet C. McCormack Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports high school seniors from New Britain or Berlin who excel academically, ranking in the top 20% of their class. Eligible students must pursue a bachelor’s degree at an accredited institution and demonstrate commitment to community service. This scholarship also considers work experience and financial need, requiring a personal essay to highlight the applicant's achievements and aspirations.

The Aman Armaan Ahmed Family SURF for Success Program offers summer undergraduate research fellowships for students from underrepresented groups in biomedical research. Awardees engage in 10 weeks of research related to digestive diseases under expert mentorship, receiving a stipend of $6,200. This initiative aims to inspire students to pursue careers in science and medicine, enhancing diversity in the field of gastroenterology and hepatology.

Society of Hospital Medicine (SHM)

The Society of Hospital Medicine (SHM) is dedicated to promoting high-value care and achieving optimal outcomes for acutely ill patients. As part of this mission, SHM seeks to address inequities in acute patient care and contribute to a greater dialogue on this important issue. As the home for hospitalists, SHM activates and engages our community to

• Advocate for our specialty, our members, and the diverse patients we serve.
• Promote high-value care and optimal outcomes for acutely ill patients.
• Meet the evolving educational needs of a dynamic specialty.
• Cultivate an inclusive community for hospitalists and support career growth and wellbeing.
• Advance the research and innovation of healthcare delivery, quality, safety, and experience across the care continuum.

Society of Hospital Medicine Equipment Grant

The SHM Global and Rural Health Foundation brings our mission directly to patients in rural and underserved regions of the United States and abroad by offering small travel and equipment grants to hospital-based clinicians and practice administrators involved in this work. The Foundation also aims to amplify the stories of inequitable patient care and celebrate hospital medicine professionals enhancing outcomes.

Equipment grants will be awarded to recipients working in a not-for-profit hospital setting. A letter from hospital or health system leadership, confirming institutional support for the purchase, is required. The equipment purchase date must be in the future (i.e., after the application submission). Award amounts will vary based on need.

The Dr. Harvey Young Education & Development Foundation’s Young Guts Scholars Program supports undergraduate students from underrepresented groups in biomedical research. The program encourages students to pursue careers in science or medicine by offering a stipend, AGA membership, and travel funds for Digestive Disease Week®. Eligible applicants must have a mentor and commit to a minimum of 12 hours of research per week. This initiative aims to expand the pipeline of investigators in digestive disease research.

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 S. “Robbie” Detwiler Memorial Scholarship Endowment (Regional)

Available for graduating high school seniors and enrolled college students from Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, or Leelanau County that are pursuing a degree in architecture or the building trades.

The Donald F. and Norma K. Mougenot Scholarship, administered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from public high schools within NCCF’s 20-town service area. With an average award of $2,000, preference is given to past graduates of St. Peter/St. Francis School. This scholarship aims to assist students pursuing their academic goals, fostering community growth and educational advancement.

The Artist's Resource Trust (A.R.T.) Fund supports mid-career visual artists in New England, providing unrestricted fellowships to those who demonstrate financial need. Established in 1996, it aims to enhance artists' creative abilities through grants for supplies, rent, and travel. Eligible artists must reside in the region for at least two years and have a minimum of ten years of active practice. A.R.T. is building an endowment to ensure its support continues indefinitely.

The Frances H. Ducci Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from public high schools within NCCF's 20-town service area. With awards ranging from $500 to $2,500, this scholarship aims to assist local students in pursuing their academic goals. The foundation is dedicated to enhancing community wellbeing through thoughtful grant-making and scholarship opportunities that address local needs.