Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Virginia

Northern New York Community Foundation

Since 1929, the Northern New York Community Foundation has invested in improving and enriching the quality of life for all in communities across Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties.

Through partnerships with businesses and organizations, charitable foundations, and generous families and individual donors, the Community Foundation awards grants and scholarships from an endowment and collection of funds that benefit the region. Its commitment to donors helps individuals achieve their charitable objectives now and for generations to come by preserving and honoring legacies of community philanthropy while inspiring others.

Next Step Education Program

The Community Foundation’s Next Step Education Program is an ideal opportunity for students and working professionals who are pursuing career advancement and educational growth. The program aims to help individuals as they pursue postsecondary education and career training. It is designed to assist students of all ages, including recent high school graduates, adult learners, and nontraditional students, as they work to earn undergraduate degrees, professional certifications, or technical credentials that will advance their professional goals.

Whether enrolling in an accredited college, university, technical, or trade school or gaining industry-recognized certifications, the Next Step Education Program aims to help individuals achieve lasting success.

This opportunity is made possible by the generosity of donors who believe in the power of lifelong education. Their support ensures that more people in our community have access to the training and education they need to reach their goals.

Award amounts may be used for tuition, books, and course-related expense.

What educational avenues can I pursue?

The Next Step Education Program supports a wide range of educational and professional development pathways, including:

• Micro-credentials and professional certifications to strengthen skills or secure employment
• Courses or programs that lead to a degree
• Technical and trade school training for hands-on, high-demand careers
• Enhanced skills programs for career advancement or to help obtain new employment, such as Microsoft Office programs and more
• Programs at local BOCES campuses
• Professional licensing programs, including CDL and other industry-specific certifications

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Washington County Hospital School of Nursing Alumni Scholarship

Founded by alumni of Washington County Hospital’s School of Nursing, this fund serves to provide scholarships to deserving students who are continuing their education in Nursing.

The Rolland J. Van Hattum Award honors individuals for their outstanding contributions to audiology and speech-language pathology within school settings. Recipients receive a plaque and $2,000, with an additional $500 awarded to their school system. This award commemorates Rolland J. Van Hattum, whose dedication to these fields greatly impacted educational services. Eligible nominees include clinicians directly employed by school systems, who demonstrate exceptional commitment through innovative programs or support for these essential services.

The Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF) administers a variety of unique scholarship funds that grant over $5.7 million annually to college students. The scholarship funds have been established by thoughtful and generous donors and each has a unique set of eligibility criteria and award structure.

Pi-Squared Scholarship

Benefiting graduating seniors of Spring ISD (Texas), Klein ISD (Texas), and Houston ISD (Texas).

The Orthopedic Research Grant, offered by the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research, supports early-career investigators in physical therapy and rehabilitation science. The grant funds innovative, hypothesis-driven projects that enhance evidence-based practices and patient outcomes. Through this initiative, the Foundation aims to develop independent researchers and strengthen the scientific foundation of the physical therapy profession. Applications are open to licensed physical therapists or assistants who are APTA members, with deadlines on July 31 and August 18.

The Eugene and Nell Petrucci Fund #1, established in 1945 by The Pittsburgh Foundation, offers scholarships to graduating seniors from specific local schools. It aims to support students pursuing higher education at accredited institutions, with a focus on those demonstrating financial need. Managed by one of the oldest community foundations in the U.S., this fund reflects a commitment to enhance educational opportunities and improve the quality of life in the region.

The Freda Gray Charitable Fund, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation, offers scholarships for undergraduate students majoring in foreign languages. This initiative supports students from Allegheny County, PA, who have demonstrated academic excellence with a minimum GPA of 3.0. By providing financial assistance, the fund aims to empower future generations in their pursuit of education, fostering a diverse and skilled workforce in the field of languages. The Pittsburgh Foundation has been a leader in community support since 1945.

The Irene S. and Harry Louik College Scholarship Fund, established in 2001 by The Pittsburgh Foundation, supports students pursuing careers in the performing arts. Eligible applicants must be full-time juniors or seniors at a four-year college, have graduated from an Allegheny County high school, show financial need, and demonstrate a commitment to building audiences for the arts. Preference is given to those who appreciate broader cultural experiences beyond the performing arts.

The Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF) administers a variety of unique scholarship funds that grant over $5.7 million annually to college students. The scholarship funds have been established by thoughtful and generous donors and each has a unique set of eligibility criteria and award structure.

Roger and Barbara Powell Scholarship for Nursing

Benefiting rural Texas residents pursuing nursing degrees.

The Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF) administers a variety of unique scholarship funds that grant over $5.7 million annually to college students. The scholarship funds have been established by thoughtful and generous donors and each has a unique set of eligibility criteria and award structure.

Silver Eagle Distributors Houston Scholarship

Benefiting dependents of Silver Eagle Distributors Houston employees.

The Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF) administers a variety of unique scholarship funds that grant over $5.7 million annually to college students. The scholarship funds have been established by thoughtful and generous donors and each has a unique set of eligibility criteria and award structure.

Tradition of Excellence Scholarship

Benefiting dependents of current Perry Homes employees.

The Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF) administers a variety of unique scholarship funds that grant over $5.7 million annually to college students. The scholarship funds have been established by thoughtful and generous donors and each has a unique set of eligibility criteria and award structure.

Strong Family Scholarship

Benefiting graduating high school seniors from charter schools in Houston, TX.

The Paris Patla Manual Therapy Research Grant, funded by the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research, aims to advance physical therapy research that enhances movement and health. With a funding opportunity of $200,000 available for one to two years, this grant supports both emerging and established researchers. The Foundation emphasizes addressing health disparities and fostering a pipeline of skilled researchers to improve patient outcomes and evidence-based practices in physical therapy.

The Readiness and Recreation Initiative (RARI) by the National Park Service aims to enhance outdoor recreation and support compatible land uses near military installations. This program, funded through the Land and Water Conservation Fund, provides up to 50% of project costs, encouraging collaboration with the Department of War. Projects must involve land acquisition and align with national priorities to ensure public outdoor access in perpetuity, directly benefiting both military and civilian communities.

The Graduate Student Scholarship for Minority Students, offered by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation, supports graduate students from racial or ethnic minority groups who are U.S. citizens. This scholarship aims to promote academic achievement among students enrolled in communication sciences and disorders programs. Applicants must be full-time students and will be considered for multiple scholarship categories, but can only receive one award. The program emphasizes educational support for tuition and related expenses.

The National Centers for Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NCBIB) provide critical resources for biomedical imaging and bioengineering research. This funding opportunity supports the development of innovative technologies tailored to the needs of basic, translational, and clinical researchers. NCBIB facilitates technology access, training, and dissemination, enhancing collaboration and advancing the field. Applications are encouraged to foster advancements that address complex biomedical challenges.

The Carol D. Garling Scholarship, established by Carol D. Garling, provides financial assistance to students pursuing a post-secondary education who have completed at least 30 credit hours at an accredited institution. Offered by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, this scholarship is part of a larger initiative to support local students and promote educational advancement within the community. Applications are accepted annually from January to April 1st, encouraging both high school graduates and non-traditional students.

The Bill Dorsey Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, offers scholarships to students at the Barbara Ingram School for the Arts (BISFA). Designed for rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors, this fund helps cover costs related to their arts discipline. Applications are available in the Fall, supporting the foundation's mission to enhance educational opportunities for local students and nurture their artistic talents.

The NCI Continuing Umbrella of Research Experiences (CURE) Non-Mentored Research Scientist Career Development Award (K22) aims to support postdoctoral fellows transitioning to independent research careers. It provides funding for applicants to establish themselves as independent biomedical researchers. Key deadlines for applications range from February 2025 to November 2027, ensuring ample opportunity for submission. This initiative emphasizes promoting diversity in the research community, helping to cultivate a new generation of scientists.

About Us

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Our Promise

To help you help others through the most effective philanthropy possible.

Richard P. Seiter Scholarship

Richard P. Seiter was a career correctional professional who served as Director of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (DRC) for several years. He began working in corrections after receiving his Ph.D. from The Ohio State University. Dr. Seiter established this scholarship for children of current DRC employees to recognize the commitment of these employees and their service to the State of Ohio. Dr. Seiter established the scholarship with the belief that education (just like in his own life) can set a person’s course for life and put them on the past for success. He values the dedication of people who give their careers to public service, and especially those who work in the difficult jobs of corrections. He believes that if a scholarship can help them with their children, it is an investment in the future of our country and state that is a legacy he wants to leave.

The Eugene Rullo Chemistry Scholarship Fund, established by the Pittsburgh Foundation, provides financial assistance to students majoring in chemistry or mathematics at St. Vincent College. This scholarship aims to support rising juniors and seniors who demonstrate financial need, with a preference for those studying chemistry. Eligible candidates must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and will be prioritized if they are long-term residents of Westmoreland County. Inquire about the application period directly with the scholarship contact.

About Us

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Our Promise

To help you help others through the most effective philanthropy possible.

Mary M. Yost Journalism Scholarship

As a journalist, Mary M. Yost proudly served her hometown community for more than 25 years with her thoughtful, balanced and thorough reporting and writing. She was the epitome of a talented journalist, with a keen interest in the community she covered. Her sense of fairness and her compassion and caring for others and for the issues she covered came through clearly in her interactions with the public and in her reporting and writing. As one of few women in the newsroom when she started out, she was a pioneer who gladly offered advice and mentorship to those who followed. She served the community as a long-time journalist and editor on The Columbus Dispatch and as a senior member of the Ohio Hospital Association and on a variety of community boards and commissions.

About Us

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Our Promise

To help you help others through the most effective philanthropy possible.

Kiwanis Club of Columbus - Speakers' Scholarship

Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world, one child and one community at a time. There are more than 8,000 clubs worldwide, in 80+ countries. Kiwanis Club of Columbus was founded in 1916, and is the fifth oldest club. We are an engaging, vibrant group of volunteers involved in hands-on projects right here in downtown Columbus. Our Kiwanis Club encourages camaraderie and fellowship through weekly luncheon meetings, featuring world-class speakers tackling timely topics. In addition, the Kiwanis Club of Columbus provides a wide range of opportunities to volunteer time and talent to make a difference in our community.

The NIH Career Transition Award (K22) supports exceptional basic and clinical investigators in developing independent research skills through a two-phase program: an intramural appointment at NIH followed by support at an extramural institution. This award specifically aids NINDS intramural neurologist and neurosurgeon scientists in transitioning to independent academic faculty roles, fostering the engagement of clinician-scientists in both funded scientific research and clinical practices.

About Us

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Our Promise

To help you help others through the most effective philanthropy possible.

William Ammer Memorial Educational Trust Fund of the Pickaway County Community Foundation

Judge Ammer was born in Circleville on May 21, 1919, son of the late Moses S. and Mary Ammer. As a graduate of Circleville High School, he continued his education at The Ohio State University (OSU), where he received his bachelor’s degree in business administration. Following three and one-half years of service in the Army during World War II, he came back to OSU and completed a Juris Doctor degree. He served as Ohio Attorney General; Examiner, Industrial commission of Ohio; Assistant Attorney General of Ohio; Prosecuting Attorney in Pickaway County; and was later appointed by Ohio Governor William O’Neill as Common Pleas Judge, Pickaway County. Serving six terms, he handled more than 30,000 cases. After serving 37 years on the bench, Judge Ammer retired, but continued to support and provide service to his community. He was noted for his generous nature by belonging to nearly every civic and service organization in the community.

About Us

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Our Promise

To help you help others through the most effective philanthropy possible.

Dorothy Cage Memorial Scholarship

Dorothy Cage's dream was to ensure underserved and economically challenged youth in our community had the tools they needed to succeed in life. Dorothy and her family awarded hundreds of scholarships and invested in laptops, books, and school-related expenses for youth in need. She had a gift for revealing to young people their own potential. By demonstrating her genuine care and affection for them, Dorothy instilled pride and self-confidence and inspired students to achieve greatness. Her legacy will be seen in the successful lives of the students for whom she committed her time, resources, and love. This scholarship fund honors Dorothy’s memory as a shining example of a life well lived.

Team Endowment Grants

Teams with a MidwayUSA Foundation endowment balance may apply to receive 5% of their endowment balance once per year, in either June or December. Grant funds can be used for team expenses, such as ammunition, travel, uniforms, range and entry fees, and more.