Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Vermont

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Cosmetology Scholarship

At a very early age in Alabama, Lee Essie Smith was a self-taught musician. After losing her mother as a young teenager, she began putting her God-given musical talent to work as a pianist for several churches. By the time she graduated from high school, she had learned the cosmetology trade and met Charlie McMillan, Jr.

After his wife’s death, Mr. McMillan continued his community service with the Democratic Party, Habitat for Humanity and Mt. Olive Baptist Church as an usher. Although he did not serve very long in the military, Mr. McMillan continues to exemplify the values and physical energy of the “Army Strong” slogan. He is the patriarch of the family – always dapper – and a regular attendee at church services.

The Mobile Learning Fund provides grants to adult literacy programs in the U.S. and Canada, enabling access to digital learning solutions. These grants support various online learning tools, such as New Readers Press, Learning Upgrade, and EnGen, aimed at enhancing literacy, math, and digital skills. Eligible programs must implement the solutions within 30 days and ensure active learner engagement. This initiative empowers educators to expand their reach and improve student outcomes through innovative digital resources.

About Us

A Vibrant Region with Opportunity for All

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is a community-based social impact investor whose mission is to engage, invest, and lead—working toward a vision of community vibrancy with opportunity for all. Our team of experienced staff and dedicated trustees is committed to boldly leading and supporting transformational community investments. We channel charitable contributions from donors through nonprofit partners that are meeting current community needs and steward community resources responsibly to ensure greater capacity for the future.

No organization has all the answers, but together, with our partners and donors, we have the means and the will to chart a new course—one that will build upon generations of philanthropy and strengthen the fabric of Herkimer and Oneida counties.

Scholarship Opportunities

We help those seeking educational opportunities that will enrich their lives—and enhance our community.

Please note that scholarships administered by the Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties are awarded through a variety of different mechanisms, including by school district selection, public application, or through our community partners, such as Utica Dollars for Scholars.

Joey R. Ventura Tradesman Award

Awarded by Connor Arthur Lynskey Memorial Scholarship Fund

Established in memory of Connor Arthur Lynskey, a special young man who was active in his community, excelled academically, was sports-minded and had an extraordinary way about himself. Connor was a graduate of Holland Patent Central School District in 2017. He aspired to be a physician and was attending premedical school when a drunk driver took his life on August 11, 2018. This award is also given in loving memory of Joey R. Ventura (1992-2021), an accomplished welder and welding instructor who unexpectedly passed in July of 2021 at the age of 28 years old.

Candidates are identified through an open application process.

The Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Research Centers are offering supplemental funding for Special Interest Projects (SIPs) aimed at enhancing public health practices. These projects will focus on innovative health promotion and disease prevention strategies to mitigate leading health risks in the U.S. The initiative supports ten specific SIPs, including studies on cancer care, alcohol use reduction, and emergency preparedness, thereby fostering research that translates into real-world health improvements.

In 2025, the Community Foundation of Madison & Jefferson County awarded over $233,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors of the county’s public and private high schools. Nearly 50 different students earned money toward their college costs. Scholarships are available for a variety of applicants. Some are specific to schools, majors, need, or interests.

The Wood Memorial Scholarship

Criteria:

• Academic achievement and financial need

Required materials:

• FAFSA SAI PDF upload

Scholarship amount:

• $1,100 | 1 scholarship

CFMJC scholarships may be used for tuition and related expenses like fees and required equipment at accredited colleges and universities. Room and board are NOT covered.

The Improving Shared Decision Making in Hemophilia Visiting Professorship Program, sponsored by Pfizer and HTRS, aims to enhance educational resources for organizations with limited access to hemophilia expertise. This initiative invites clinicians and multidisciplinary teams to host a distinguished Visiting Professor who will address unmet educational needs in shared decision making and emerging therapies. Grants of up to $7,500 will support local program costs, with a focus on enhancing care for patients with hemostatic disorders.

The US Flu Vaccine Effectiveness (VE) Network aims to enhance the effectiveness of vaccines against influenza and other respiratory pathogens, which are significant contributors to morbidity and mortality. This funding opportunity invites proposals for surveillance studies, including annual VE assessments, acute respiratory illness tracking, household transmission research, and immunogenicity studies. Applicants can apply for either Component A or B, with the option to include additional components based on their primary selection.

Lester Educational Fund

Fund provides scholarships to help students obtain an education in a profession or vocation.

Amount

$1,000+

About The Community Foundation of Hancock County

We are a nonprofit, public charity that encourages philanthropy, convenes and leads community initiatives, provides educational support, and supports nonprofit organizations. 

Scholarships for Adults & Non-Traditional Students

The Community Foundation of Hancock County offers educational support for Hancock County, Indiana adults who are seeking post-secondary training or schooling to improve their career prospects. There are also some opportunities provided by specific businesses in the area. 

Cargold Scholarship

This scholarship was established by Dennis and Evelyn Chapman to honor Dennis’ parents and their belief in higher education.

Ryan Lesher Student Athlete Memorial Scholarship (NCF)

Provides scholarships to Council Rock South and North High Schools for students who participated in multiple sports and maintained a GPA over 3.0.

The DOJ's FY 2026 BIDEN Program aims to address immigration-related challenges by providing funding to eligible state and local governments. This initiative focuses on enhancing law enforcement's capacity to apprehend criminal aliens, investigate gang activities, and manage court operations related to crimes committed by aliens. By supporting these critical efforts, the program aims to improve public safety and uphold the rule of law in communities across the nation.

Coleman, Chambers & Rogers First Responders College Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 2017 by Coleman, Chambers & Rogers LLP. This scholarship was created out of awareness and gratitude for first responders in North Georgia. This scholarship is available to current and active members of the First Responders, their children and grandchildren for Gainesville, all municipalities and Hall County, Georgia.

For this scholarship, First Responder is defined as Police (including local & state), Fire or EMS workers. The 2026 scholarship will award one recipient in the amount of $1,200.

The Disaster Resilience Program Fellowship supports low-income communities affected by disasters by mobilizing lawyers and law students to provide free civil legal aid. This initiative ensures access to essential legal services, helping families navigate recovery barriers. Attorney Fellows receive a salary while Student Fellows earn a stipend for their service. Participants engage in outreach, build community relationships, and receive comprehensive training to enhance their legal skills, contributing to the resilience of affected communities.

The Gabriel, Joseph and Lila Mandour Karam Scholarship, established by the late Joseph G. Karam, supports educational opportunities for students attending 2-year or 4-year colleges, universities, or vocational schools. Administered by the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, the fund has awarded nearly $60,000 to various nonprofits since 2012. The scholarship reflects a commitment to the dramatic arts and technological development, continuing Joseph's philanthropic legacy and vision for community enrichment.

David M. Martin Scholarship

This scholarship was established by the E. E. Butler Class of 1969 in memory of David M. Martin, the son of David Jerome Martin and Cornelia Martin.

The scholarship is awarded every other year, based on financial need, to an African American student who is either a graduating senior or currently enrolled in college and pursuing or planning to pursue a career in a STEM-related field. Eligible applicants must also be descendants of any student who attended the historic Fair Street School or E. E. Butler High School in Gainesville-Hall County between 1936 and 1969.

David M. Martin loved computer science and had a lifelong passion for the latest technology. In honor of this, preference will be given to students who share an interest in computer technology and who are majoring in fields such as Information Technology, Computer Information Systems, Security and/or Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or Informatics.

The 2026 scholarship award will be $1,000.

Changing the Way America Thinks About Race Scholarship

Changing the Way America Thinks about Race Scholarship Fund (CHATR) provides scholarships to Black and Brown students in the state of Washington who are pursuing undergraduate studies. CHATR is particularly interested in supporting Black and Brown students from Bremerton High School, The Why Not You Academy, and those who are active in the Rainier Athletes Mentorship program in the Bellevue School District who are interested in using their college experience to help facilitate changing the way America thinks about race. Awarded funds may be used for tuition, books, room and board, and travel to/from school.

Amount

• 2 awards, $5,000 each

The Community-Built Playspace Grants, funded by KaBOOM!, aim to empower communities to create kid-designed playspaces that foster health and well-being. These grants address inequities in access to safe play areas, particularly in communities of color, ensuring that all children can benefit from spaces that promote social, emotional, and physical development. By supporting the construction of these playspaces, KaBOOM! works to enhance resilience and learning opportunities for children, transforming neighborhoods into vibrant, engaging environments.

Deputy Nicolas Dixon Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a North Georgia First Responder, their child or spouse who are pursuing their post-secondary education. For this scholarship, a first responder is defined as Police (including local and state), Fire, EMS workers, and Communications officers. In 2026, one scholarship award of $750 will be offered.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Clarence A. “Buck” Iles Scholarship

The Clarence A. “Buck” Iles Scholarship was lovingly established by his wife of 65 years, Carrie, to enable a deserving young person to pursue his/her education in the electrical field. Mr. and Mrs. Iles established a successful family-owned and operated electrical contracting company – serving the Saginaw area for more than 25 years. It was in this tradition of hard work, honesty and quality service that the Iles Electric Company, Inc., was founded.

Mr. Iles’ only regret was that he was not able to pursue a formal college education, but he enabled his children and grandchildren to accomplish their educational goals and dreams. Education, combined with dreams and hard work, will create realities. It is hoped that the values, determination and ambition demonstrated by Mr. Iles will be passed on to future generations of electricians as they realize their dreams.

Wichita County Jr. Livestock Association Stock Show Scholarship

The Wichita County Junior Livestock Association Stock Show (WCJLS) Scholarship was created at WFACF in 2013 to support higher education endeavors of graduating high school seniors who participated in the respective FFA programs of Wichita Falls ISD, Iowa Park CISD, Electra ISD, Burkburnett ISD, City View ISD, or the Wichita County 4-H program. There is (1) one-time $2,000 scholarship available for a recipient from each of the 6 programs; students who are in the FFA and 4-H programs must decide which one they want to apply under at the time of application. The award can be used at any college or vocational/trade program in the U.S. for any field of study. To be eligible, students must have a 2.5 GPA and have exhibited a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) for two consecutive years at the WCJLS. The top two candidates from each program will be interviewed by the scholarship committee and the award will be based 50/50 on application/interview. 

The New Music Creator Fund provides financial support to individual music creators across all genres, helping them advance their creative practice. This initiative covers costs associated with developing new work and collaborative projects. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and have three years of professional music experience. The fund aims to empower diverse music creators in the U.S. by facilitating the development of innovative musical ideas and fostering artistic collaboration.

The OREF Multimodal Musculoskeletal Perioperative Pain Management Grant invites research proposals aimed at enhancing perioperative pain management strategies. This funding opportunity emphasizes opioid-sparing techniques and effective regional anesthesia methods to improve patient outcomes in orthopedic surgeries. Eligible applicants include Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) in collaboration with PhDs or MDs, fostering a diverse range of expertise in pain management research.

The Shubert Foundation offers grants to not-for-profit professional theatre and dance companies in the U.S., focusing on general operating support rather than project-specific funding. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and a proven track record in artistic and administrative excellence. Evaluations consider artistic achievement, community service, fiscal responsibility, and commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring support reaches those making significant contributions to the arts community.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Armin “Bun” and Lorraine Rinness Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Armin “Bun” and Lorraine Rinness Memorial Scholarship Fund honors Armin “Bun” and Lorraine Rinness by supporting Saginaw County students pursuing college or Career and Technical Education (CTE) training. This fund provides need-based assistance to help local students continue their education and achieve long-term success.

Scholarships

Grand Haven Area Community Foundation scholarships are awarded competitively based on criteria set by donors. These criteria could include financial need, the school the applicant is attending, academic achievement, as well as personal or career goals. The Community Foundation has a rigorous internal selection process for each scholarship decision, and each applicant is reviewed in depth, and considered thoroughly.

Our scholarship program is simple. You are able to apply once for all foundation scholarships you may be eligible for. Once your application is submitted, you will be eligible for all those for which you meet the requirement.

Frederick Brown Fund

This fund was opened in honor of Frederick Brown by his daughters, Stacy and Bonnie, after his death in 2018. Frederick was a gifted surgeon. He was the first and, for many years, only, vascular surgeon in the Tri-Cities area. He obtained his pre-med degree with a double major in history and biology from Andrew's University and graduated from medical school in 1973. He did his general and thoracic surgery residency at Henry Ford Hospital in Dearborn. Frederick was full of humor, loved to travel, and had a generous presence in ensuring high quality and local health care could be available in West Michigan.

Dissertation Grants

With support from the National Science Foundation, the American Educational Research Association (AERA) Grants Program seeks proposals for Dissertation Grants. The AERA Grants Program provides advanced graduate students with research funding and professional development and training. The program supports highly competitive dissertation research using rigorous quantitative methods to examine large-scale, education-related data. The aim of the program is to advance fundamental knowledge of relevance to STEM education policy, foster significant science using education data, promote equity in STEM, and build research capacity in education and learning. Since 1991, this AERA Program has been vital to both research and training at early career stages.

The Grants Program encourages the use of major data sets from multiple and diverse sources. It emphasizes the advanced statistical analysis of data sets from the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the National Science Foundation (NSF), and other federal agencies. The program also supports studies using large-scale international data systems (e.g., PISA, PIRLS, or TIMMS) that benefit from U.S. federal government support. In addition, statewide longitudinal administrative data systems (SLDS) enhanced through federal grants are also eligible for consideration. The inclusion of federal or state administrative information that further expands the analytic capacity of the research is permissible. The thrust of the analysis needs to be generalizable to a national, state, or population or a subgroup within the sample that the dataset represents.

The Grants Program is open to field-initiated research and welcomes proposals that:

• develop or benefit from advanced statistical or innovative quantitative methods or measures;
• analyze more than one large-scale national or international federally funded data set, or more than one statewide longitudinal data system (SLDS) or incorporate other data enhancements;
• integrate, link, or blend multiple large-scale data sources; or
• undertake replication research of major findings or major studies using large-scale, federally supported or enhanced data.

The Grants Program encourages proposals across the life span and contexts of education and learning of relevance to STEM policy and practice. The research may focus on a wide range of topics, including but not limited to such issues as student achievement in STEM, analysis of STEM education policies, contextual factors in education, educational participation and persistence (pre-kindergarten through graduate school), early childhood education and development, postsecondary education, and the STEM workforce and transitions. Studies that examine issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion across STEM topics and/or for specific racial and ethnic groups, social classes, genders, or persons with disabilities are encouraged.

Award

• Award Component 1 - $27,500 Stipend
• Award Component 2 - AERA Research and Training Conference
• Award Component 3- AERA Annual Meeting Capstone Research Institute

The budget must include funds to attend the AERA Annual Meeting. The funds can be used for research-related expenses such as tuition, living expenses, travel to secure data enclaves or scholarly conferences, books, computer equipment, and other expenses directly related to conducting this research. AERA encourages cost sharing from universities in the form of tuition assistance, office space, university fees, and other expenses.

The Hart Family Scholarship, established by Todd and Terry Hart, supports students residing in the 1969 Fire District area of the Town of Trenton. It aims to provide educational opportunities for those accepted into accredited colleges, universities, or vocational schools in the U.S. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and must have lived in the area for at least three years. This scholarship reflects a commitment to enhancing community vibrancy through education.