Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Virginia

The Helene Stoller Scholarship, established in September 2023 by Dr. Helene Stoller, aims to support students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math. This merit and need-based scholarship targets those with strong financial needs and academic excellence. Managed by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, it covers various educational expenses, ensuring equitable access regardless of race, gender, or background. Applications are reviewed by a dedicated committee to select deserving recipients.

The James Henry Smith & Gladys Manning Smith Scholarship Fund aims to support students with financial need and strong character, helping them achieve a college education. This renewable scholarship offers annual funding, covering tuition, fees, housing, and books, with awards between $6,000 and $7,000. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors from Muscogee County, Georgia, maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and demonstrate community service. The scholarship reflects the Smiths' commitment to service and education.

The TowerCares Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations that support children in need and military families in the Baltimore/Washington area. New organizations must consult a Foundation Ambassador before applying. The Foundation prioritizes specific project funding over general operational support. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and align with the Foundation's mission, enhancing community welfare and ensuring a brighter future for those in need.

The Maude MacKenzie Scholarship, offered by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs in Maine, provides $1,000 annually to a deserving student who has graduated from an accredited high school in Maine, demonstrating academic achievement, leadership, and community service. Applicants must be residents of Maine and accepted into a college or university. This scholarship aims to support students in their pursuit of higher education while promoting the values of commitment and service within the community.

The BPW/Maine Futurama Foundation offers the Career Advancement Scholarship, a $3000 award aimed at women aged 30 and above residing in Maine. This scholarship supports those enrolled in accredited colleges or training programs, covering both full-time and part-time studies. It assists women in improving their skills for career advancement, whether entering a new field or re-entering the job market. Since 1962, the foundation has empowered women towards economic self-sufficiency.

The Lemieux-Lovejoy Youth Scholarship, provided by the BPW/Maine Futurama Foundation, supports Maine women pursuing higher education. Established in 1962, this scholarship honors Rachel E. Lemieux and Arline Andrews Lovejoy, who were instrumental in its founding. Applicants must be Maine residents graduating high school and demonstrate financial need. This initiative aims to empower women and promote economic self-sufficiency, enabling them to achieve their educational goals and contribute positively to the community.

The Hopewell Lions Club Scholarship Endowment honors Louis C. Gibbs, promoting education for residents of Hopewell and nearby areas. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need, academic performance, and extracurricular involvement. Eligible candidates must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and submit an online application with required documents. The aim is to support individuals who demonstrate commitment to their education and community service, reflecting the values upheld by Mr. Gibbs and the Lions Club.

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 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 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 Mary Katherine "Katy" Williamson Scholarship Fund honors the memory of Katy Williamson, established by her family after her passing in 2005. This scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in healthcare, both human and animal, at accredited institutions in the U.S. Recipients may renew the award annually for up to four years, contingent on maintaining eligibility. The fund reflects Katy's love for animals and nature, aiming to empower future generations to contribute positively to society.

About us

SIR Foundation is a scientific foundation dedicated to fostering research in interventional radiology for the purposes of advancing scientific knowledge, increasing the number of skilled investigators, and developing innovative therapies that lead to improved patient care and quality of life. The foundation is committed to fostering the development and enhancement of innovative, minimally invasive, image-guided therapies from inception to mature clinical application and to conduct educational programs in the service of its mission.

Resident Research Award

Provides residents and fellows an opportunity to attend and present their scientific research at the SIR Annual Scientific Meeting. The intent is to expose young researchers who wish to further their careers in interventional radiology.

Award

Up to two recipients will receive complimentary registration and a travel stipend of $1,000.

About us

SIR Foundation is a scientific foundation dedicated to fostering research in interventional radiology for the purposes of advancing scientific knowledge, increasing the number of skilled investigators, and developing innovative therapies that lead to improved patient care and quality of life. The foundation is committed to fostering the development and enhancement of innovative, minimally invasive, image-guided therapies from inception to mature clinical application and to conduct educational programs in the service of its mission.

Research Scientist Award

Recognizes the contributions and accomplishments of PhD scientists and engineers at all levels of training for their basic and preclinical research on the topic of interventional radiology.

Award

Up to two recipients will receive complimentary registration and a travel stipend of $1,000.

About us

SIR Foundation is a scientific foundation dedicated to fostering research in interventional radiology for the purposes of advancing scientific knowledge, increasing the number of skilled investigators, and developing innovative therapies that lead to improved patient care and quality of life. The foundation is committed to fostering the development and enhancement of innovative, minimally invasive, image-guided therapies from inception to mature clinical application and to conduct educational programs in the service of its mission.

Dr. Gary J. Becker Young Investigator Award

Promotes excellence in academic research for members early in their careers. This award honors the founding editor of the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology (JVIR) and recognizes the importance of the young investigator in developing interventional solutions for the future.

About

In 1990, SIR Foundation established the Dr. Gary J. Becker Young Investigator Award as a way to recognize promising young practitioners of interventional radiology early in their careers and encourage their pursuit of academic careers. Each year, the author of the most outstanding clinical science research paper submitted receives this distinguished award.

Award

$3,000 honorarium along with complimentary registration to the SIR Annual Scientific Meeting.

The award will be presented during the SIR Foundation Awards Ceremony at the SIR Annual Scientific Meeting.

The H. Franklin Brooks Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, offers renewable scholarships to graduating high school seniors from Middle Tennessee. This fund particularly supports self-identified LGBTQ+ students, especially those whose families have ceased financial support for their education. With over 30 years of community impact, CFMT aims to foster a thriving, inclusive environment through collective philanthropy.

The JFNY Grant for Japanese Studies provides up to $5,000 for U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status to promote Japanese Studies. This grant supports conferences, presentations, and research that enhances understanding of Japan. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for online projects, while others must be submitted three months prior to the project start date. Preference is given to projects that secure additional funding from other sources.

The 9.11 Promise Run Scholarships provide financial support to children of first responders and military personnel who have been killed or injured. Established in 2019, these scholarships range from $5,000 to $15,000 and can be applied toward trade school or college tuition. Eligible applicants must be under 25 years old and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Awards are issued directly to accredited institutions and can be renewed for up to six years, ensuring continued support for eligible students.

The Healthy School Food Pathway Fellowship empowers experienced school food professionals to lead sustainable and equitable food reform over a 13-month program. Participants enhance their leadership skills, gain in-depth knowledge of the U.S. food system, and advocate for healthy school food policies. The fellowship includes live virtual sessions, coursework, and hands-on projects, culminating in a capstone project. With a focus on collaboration and networking, selected fellows will drive impactful change in their school districts.

Wilburn Clary Medal

The Clary Medal, made possible through the generosity of the Eddie and Jo Allison Smith Family Foundation, recognizes outstanding high school student-athletes annually in memory of Wilburn C. Clary.

Consideration given to the following criteria:

• Applicant must demonstrate excellence in athletic participation through awards, honors, and special recognitions.
• Applicant must demonstrate success in other, non-sport, extra-curricular activities.
• Applicant must demonstrate active involvement within their community through volunteer service programs, scouts, or other similar activities.
• Applicant must demonstrate a desire to excel in all areas of life - athletics, education, sportsmanship, teamwork, leadership, honesty and integrity.

Awards

• 2, $3000

Jerry McGee Endowed Scholarship

The Jerry McGee Endowed Scholarship was created in honor of Jerry McGee for his 24+ years of service as executive director of the North Carolina Athletic Directors' Association (NCADA). This award is unique in that it honors student-athletes who have distinguished themselves by overcoming adversity and returning to excel beyond expectations in their respective scholastic athletic sport(s).

Recipients of the Jerry McGee Endowed Scholarship will be eligible to apply for the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association Scholarship (NIAAA) provided each meets the criteria set forth by the NIAAA. NIAAA scholarship applications are due by May 1 to the NIAAA.

Awards

• 2, $3000

Charlie Adams Endowed Scholarship

First awarded in 2010, this scholarship honors the late former Executive Director of the Association, Charlie Adams, who was the fifth Executive Director of the NCHSAA and served from 1984 until 2010. The female award is given in honor of his daughter, Michelle, who participated in cross country at Chapel Hill on the 1984 State Championship team. The male award is given in memory of his son, C. Scott Adams, who was the first wrestler at Chapel Hill to compete in the State Wrestling Championships.

Funding sources for this scholarship include donations from individuals and athletic organizations (private donations) and interest earnings. This scholarship is awarded to one female, senior varsity cross-country athlete and one male, senior varsity wrestler at an NCHSAA member high school. Each recipient currently receives a one-time scholarship towards continuing their education.

Award presentation: NCHSAA Annual Awards Celebration, Piedmont Hall/Greensboro; June 2026 (date TBD)

Awards

• 4, $2500

Pat Gainey Student Scholarship Award

In 2006/07, through support from the Shoen Family Foundation, the Pat Gainey Student-Athlete Scholarship Award was established to recognize "Athletic Achievement and Strength of Character" annually and provide financial support for two student-athletes with a major focus on need-based applicants.

Pat Gainey, a Dunn, NC native and proponent of women's athletics, showcased a phenomenal record in women's basketball. His overall women's basketball record at Pamlico was an incredible 93-6. He then moved to Taylorsville where he coached from 1955-1964. His women's basketball teams collectively won five Western North Carolina High School Activities Association titles and at one point, recorded 54 consecutive wins and 140 straight conference victories. His overall women's basketball mark was 358-57.

Under Pat's tutelage, the Pamlico baseball teams captured 4 Seashore Conference Championships and compiled an overall record of 67-7 including 24 straight conference wins. Pat Gainey always had a great knowledge of baseball and spent the summer months scouting professional baseball prospects. Pat scouted a combined 18 years for the New York Giants and Chicago White Sox.

Award presentation: NCHSAA Annual Awards Celebration, Piedmont Hall/Greensboro; June 2026 (date TBD)

Awards

• 2, $5000

The Craig H. Neilsen Foundation offers Community Support Grants aimed at enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with spinal cord injuries (SCI). With a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, these grants support community-driven programs that promote independence and participation. Funding ranges from $25,000 to $200,000 annually for up to two years, addressing regional needs and removing barriers to access. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to empowering all individuals affected by SCI.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Oriole Foundation / Paula & Art Janousek Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Paula and Art Janousec. The Paula and Art Janousec Memorial Scholarship was established with funds donated by the Janousecs and the scholarship was named in their honor by former superintendent Cal DeKuiper who knew the Janousecs as his neighbors. Living next to the superintendent, the Janousecs were inspired and impressed by Ludington's staff and administration's dedication to education and students and cooperative spirit. Their wish was to create a legacy of support as friends of Ludington's educational community.

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin awards nearly $300,000 in annual scholarships to support Central Wisconsin students’ educational needs. 

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin awards hundreds of scholarships annually to students primarily in Portage and Waushara counties who are pursuing higher education.

The Community Foundation proudly supports students in Portage and Waushara counties with over $325,000 in scholarships annually, thanks to the generosity of local individuals and families. Award amounts range from $500 to $40,000, opening doors to educational opportunities.

Whether you're a student seeking financial support or a donor looking to grow a scholarship fund, we invite you to explore available opportunities and learn how you can be involved.

COLLEGE Scholarship

Criteria for Selection:

• Financial need and community involvement.

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin awards nearly $300,000 in annual scholarships to support Central Wisconsin students’ educational needs. 

The Community Foundation proudly supports students in Portage and Waushara counties with over $325,000 in scholarships annually, thanks to the generosity of local individuals and families. Award amounts range from $500 to $40,000, opening doors to educational opportunities.

The Community Foundation provides scholarships for a wide range of students, including high school seniors, college students, non-traditional learners, and those pursuing specific fields of study.

Jeffrey Badura Memorial Scholarship

Criteria for Selection:

• Participated in interscholastic athletic competitions and extra-curricular activities.