Best Grants for BIPOC in Virginia

The Citizens 1st Bank/Perkins Family Foundation State Employees' Children's Scholarship, managed by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports students from Cherokee, Nacogdoches, or Smith County. Eligible candidates must be graduating seniors or current college students and are required to demonstrate financial need through FASFA. This scholarship reflects a commitment to education, enabling young Texans to pursue their academic dreams at any college in the United States.

The Barbara Bass Community College Scholarship, offered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors who are first-generation college students living in Tyler, Texas. This renewable scholarship aims to assist students attending any community college in the United States while considering financial need through FASFA. Founded in 1989, the Foundation promotes educational opportunities, reflecting the belief in education's transformative power for young individuals.

Next Jazz Legacy is a mentorship program that supports emerging jazz artists through intergenerational mentorship, performance opportunities, and professional networking. Funded by the Mellon Foundation and led by renowned artist Terri Lyne Carrington, the initiative aims to provide a comprehensive support package to seven artists annually from 2025 to 2027. Awardees will receive financial investment, mentorship, and learning opportunities to help them thrive in their careers and contribute to a vibrant jazz future.

The Brinson Prize Fellowship Program, in partnership with The Brinson Foundation, offers support for early career astrophysicists and cosmologists pursuing innovative research in observational cosmology. This program emphasizes the importance of connecting science with society and provides up to three years of funding, including a stipend for independent research. Applicants must hold a PhD in relevant fields and can apply for fellowships starting in 2026, which include professional development opportunities.

The Shari Simon Greenberg Community Scholarship, offered by the Simon Youth Foundation, supports high school seniors residing near Simon malls. This scholarship aims to help first-generation college students and those with financial need pursue higher education. With an annual funding of approximately $1 million, the foundation ensures more students have the opportunity to chase their dreams by alleviating post-secondary expenses for those determined to learn.

The Antonio and Antoinette Pieropan Scholarship Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, supports local students from Stockbridge and West Stockbridge pursuing higher education. This fund prioritizes those in financial need, particularly encouraging vocational training in trades. It reflects the values of its namesakes, promoting independence and community contribution. Scholarships can be renewed annually through age 23, providing essential support for students seeking careers in technical fields and trades.

The Beyond the Cure Ambassador Scholarship Program, offered by the National Children’s Cancer Society, supports childhood cancer survivors in their pursuit of higher education. Celebrating resilience and determination, this program awards 50 scholarships annually, empowering survivors to achieve their academic and professional dreams. With over 35 years of experience, the NCCS has provided significant financial assistance to families navigating the challenges of childhood cancer, ensuring that no family faces this journey alone.

The Berkshire Inspired Educational Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, aims to assist BIPOC and economically disadvantaged students from Berkshire County, MA, facing emergency financial needs. Inspired by local traditions of supporting educational aspirations, the fund provides vital financial resources for college-related expenses, ensuring these students can achieve their academic goals. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to community empowerment and economic mobility, reinforcing their mission to foster equitable opportunities for all residents.

The Emma M. Kirchhofer Scholarship Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, aims to empower graduating high school seniors from Columbia County to pursue their college education. Inspired by Emma's belief in personal growth and creativity through art, this scholarship encourages students to develop their talents in their chosen disciplines. With a commitment to community support and educational advancement, it reflects the foundation's mission of enhancing lives and promoting equity in opportunities.

The William K. Wiley Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports high school seniors and non-traditional students from Ashland County who are pursuing degrees in History or related fields. Established in memory of William K. Wiley, this scholarship honors his contributions to the community. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.25 and complete a 20-hour internship at the Historical Society, fostering a commitment to preserving local history.

The Garrett Francis Collins and Josephine Goodwin Collins Scholarship Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation in 2015, supports high school seniors from Hinsdale, MA, pursuing higher education. This fund is part of a larger initiative that promotes economic mobility and community betterment, reflecting the foundation's commitment to philanthropy and leadership. With a rich history dating back to 1987, the foundation manages numerous funds to enhance the quality of life for residents across multiple regions.

The William and Marlene Rose Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools who plan to major in Pre-Med or Nursing. Eligible students must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and be accepted to an accredited four-year college or university. This scholarship aims to assist deserving students in pursuing their education in the medical field.

The TW and Marjorie Smith Scholarship, established by the Ashland County Community Foundation, aims to support graduating seniors from any Ashland County high school who are pursuing a degree in Agriculture or a related field. This scholarship not only provides financial assistance for education at accredited colleges or universities but also honors the Smiths' commitment to benefiting their local community.

The Theodore S. and Kathy Smith Smetzer Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, aims to support single parents, widowed individuals, and non-traditional students in furthering their education. Eligible applicants must have graduated from an Ashland County high school with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and have been accepted to an accredited institution. The scholarship considers work experience, financial need, and unusual circumstances, making it a vital resource for those facing financial hardships.

The Solomon Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools, especially Hillsdale students. Candidates must major in Elementary Education, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and be accepted to a four-year accredited college. Established in honor of Lee Solomon and Jane Welsh, this scholarship aims to foster future educators and promote a love for teaching in the community.

The Shanna Stoffer Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, aims to support Ashland County residents pursuing degrees in Education. Eligible applicants include graduating high school seniors, continuing college students, and non-traditional students with a minimum GPA of 2.5. This scholarship provides financial assistance to those enrolled or planning to enroll in two or four-year colleges or graduate programs, fostering educational advancement in the community.

The Robert & Joyce Stokes Family Scholarship, provided by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools with a GPA of 2.75 or above and at least two varsity letters. This scholarship honors the Stokes' commitment to education and service. Recipients can renew the scholarship for up to three years by maintaining full-time enrollment and a GPA of 2.75, ensuring ongoing support for their educational journey.

The Robert (Driz) Young Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Canton/McKinley High School with a GPA of 2.0 or higher. This scholarship is designed for students who have been accepted into accredited two- or four-year colleges or universities, providing essential financial assistance to help them achieve their academic goals and pursue higher education.

Compeer Financial's High School Senior Scholarship Program offers 105 scholarships of $2,000 each to graduating seniors in its 144-county territory. Eligible candidates must demonstrate academic achievement, community involvement, and a passion for agriculture. Special consideration is given to dependents of Compeer clients and students from metropolitan areas. This competitive program aims to support the future leaders of agriculture and rural America, with awards paid directly to the recipients' colleges.

The Beatrice Educational Foundation Scholarship supports Beatrice High School seniors with financial aid for higher education. Established in 1987, the Foundation manages a $3.8 million Endowment Fund, providing over $55,000 in scholarships annually. Scholarships are awarded based on criteria set by the donor, focusing on academic merit and need. The Foundation aims to assist deserving students in pursuing undergraduate studies, ensuring funds are available when needed.

The Quailwood Scholarship Fund, established by Jonathan Schor, aims to enhance public services and the quality of life in Red Rock, New York. Funded by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, it provides grants for conservation, education, and community support. The advisory board, comprising local leaders and organizations, ensures that the fund meets the long-term needs of the community. The initiative fosters a strong sense of community and encourages diverse participation among residents, promoting economic mobility and a high quality of life.

The Joann and C.W. Carpenter Endowed Scholarship, established in 2016 by C.W. Carpenter in memory of his wife JoAnn, supports high school seniors from CCISD. With awards ranging from $100 to $16,000, this scholarship aims to assist those in financial need pursuing higher education, including vocational schools. This initiative reflects the Carpenter's commitment to community service and educational support, ensuring that deserving students receive the help they need to succeed.

The Coastal Bend Community Foundation Scholarship supports high school seniors from a seven-county area in Texas, providing grants ranging from $100 to $16,000, with an average award of $1,000. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities for local students attending accredited colleges or universities across the United States. The foundation, known for its integrity and community stewardship, has a longstanding commitment to philanthropy in the Coastal Bend region.

The Linda R. Benavides Memorial Scholarship-Community Fellowship Award, managed by the Coastal Bend Community Foundation, offers financial support to graduating high school seniors and GED recipients in the Coastal Bend area. Awards range from $100 to $16,000, with an average of $1,000. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and a commitment to community service, reflecting Linda Benavides' legacy of advocacy and leadership. This scholarship aims to uplift local students and foster educational opportunities.

The Lawrence Cheung, MD Scholarship for Public Health and Advocacy, offered by the AMA Foundation, supports medical students dedicated to leadership in public health. Each year, recipients receive $10,000 to assist with tuition, focusing on those from California. This initiative is part of the Physicians of Tomorrow program, which fosters the next generation of physician leaders committed to health equity. Students must demonstrate their advocacy interest in their personal statements.

The William Stanley Scholarship Fund, established in 1991 by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, assists Berkshire County residents seeking to attend two- or four-year colleges. Named after inventor William Stanley, the fund honors his legacy in pioneering alternating current technology. The foundation, founded in 1987, focuses on strengthening communities through philanthropy, with a vision of enhancing economic mobility and quality of life for all residents.

The Kappa Kappa Gamma Foundation offers need-based scholarships to empower members in achieving their educational goals. These scholarships provide financial support of up to $5,000 per year or $2,500 per term for undergraduate students. Applicants may apply for either a merit-based or need-based scholarship, ensuring access to education for all. The foundation aims to create opportunities and promote academic success among its members.