Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Virginia

The BJA FY 2026 DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR)—Formula Grants Program aims to support states and local governments in enhancing their DNA analysis capabilities. By providing funding for existing crime laboratories, this initiative seeks to increase the processing capacity for DNA samples, thereby reducing the backlog in forensic DNA analysis and ensuring timely entry into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). Applications are due by November 5, 2026.

The ENF Community Investments Program - Beacon Grants offers a unique opportunity for Elks Lodges to initiate and lead charitable projects in their local communities. This program encourages Lodges to develop sustainable initiatives, allowing them to address community needs effectively. By fostering collaboration and providing resources, the Beacon Grants enhance the quality of life for residents, including veterans and families. In 2025-26, all Lodges will have the chance to participate, promoting a culture of giving back.

The ISF Policy Scholarship Program offers financial assistance ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 for scholars dedicated to improving Muslim representation in media and government. Since 2009, ISF has awarded 747 scholarships to students in fields that influence public policy and opinion, such as political science and international relations. With a commitment to mentorship and real-world experience, ISF aims to foster positive narratives about American Muslims and encourage their involvement in the policymaking process.

The Wherewithal Project & Presentation Grant, funded by The Andy Warhol Foundation, supports artists in the DC area with $7,500 grants for innovative projects that will be publicly presented between January and December 2025. This initiative aims to foster unconventional and collaborative practices, enhancing the local arts community. Since its inception in 2019, it has awarded $400,000 to 156 artists and collectives, emphasizing the importance of diverse and experimental art forms.

The ISF Narrative Film Grant, established by the Islamic Scholarship Fund, supports emerging Muslim filmmakers by providing funding for narrative films in production or post-production stages. With a focus on compelling storytelling and positive portrayals of the Muslim community, the grant offers mentorship and networking opportunities to enhance the filmmakers' projects. Since its inception in 2014, it has awarded $625,000 to over 111 filmmakers, promoting diverse narratives that resonate with audiences.

About Boeing

A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Our U.S. and global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture based on our core values of safety, quality and integrity.

The Employees Community Fund (ECF) of The Boeing Company

One of the largest employee-managed funds of its kind in the world, the Employees Community Fund (ECF) of The Boeing Company has empowered employees to make a greater impact by pooling their tax-deductible donations for more than 60 years. Employee-led grantmaking committees at 20 Boeing sites provide combined employee donations to nonprofits in their communities through ECF grants.

Charitable or educational organizations can apply for grants from the Employees Community Fund (ECF) of The Boeing Company.

Puget Sound Chapter

The Employees Community Fund (ECF) of Boeing Puget Sound is a pooled fund consisting of recurring payroll contributions from generous Boeing employees. It funds local nonprofits that help thousands of families and individuals in the Puget Sound region where Boeing employees live and work.

ECF focus areas

ECF makes grants to 501(c)(3) Health & Human Service nonprofits such as food banks, job-training programs, shelters, transitional housing, mental health services, and low-income medical clinics. ECF seeks the direct client benefit of each grant to ensure that our employees’ contributions directly help those in need.

ECF funding criteria

ECF has two distinct grant categories – Supporting Grants and Capital Campaign Grants.

ECF of Boeing Company: Puget Sound Chapter Supporting Grants

Consideration is given to nonprofits/agencies that are performing well and are seeking to upgrade, replace or modify elements of their infrastructure.

• Supporting grants cannot exceed $50,000. The requested amount cannot be more than 10% of an agency’s gross annual revenue.
• Supporting grants will be considered only for agencies benefiting residents in the Puget Sound Region.
• Supporting grants help agencies continue to effectively provide services through enhanced direct client benefit by aiding them in procuring and/or paying for items such as:
  • Equipment (ex. office, kitchen, industrial, furniture, etc.)
  • Vehicles used to support clients and/or transport food and/or goods (cost of vehicle and accommodations, tax, and licensing only; operating expenses, such as insurance, fuel, etc. is not allowed)
  • Phone systems
  • Cell phones for direct client use
  • Remodels and/or renovations (must hold at least a 10-year lease or own the building)
  • Purchase or construction of new buildings
  • Computers or tablets for direct client benefit and/or use
  • Software for direct client benefit and/or use (ex. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device)
  • Information Technology expenses, without which procured tools would not work
  • External improvements for client safety (i.e. security system, exterior lighting, improved ADA accessibility, new or refinished pavement or concrete)
• Supporting grants which are accepted must be spent as approved within nine (9) months.

The Foist Family Perseverance Scholarship Fund, established by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, aims to support adult learners and graduating high school seniors from Berkshire County pursuing careers in healthcare and sciences. With a focus on clinical and research fields such as nursing and occupational therapy, this fund seeks to empower individuals in their educational and professional journeys, promoting economic mobility and high quality of life in the community.

The Michigan Health Endowment Fund offers Scholarships for Conferences and Professional Development to support health-related events. These scholarships, up to $2,500 per person and $5,000 per organization, are available for current or past grantees and partners. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with a requirement to submit at least four weeks before the event. Priority is given to organizations that haven't received funding in the previous year, ensuring equitable access to professional development opportunities.

The AccessLex Diversity Pathway Intervention Grant Program aims to support initiatives that facilitate the entry of college students from historically underrepresented groups into law school. By providing funding of $200,000 to $300,000 over 12 to 24 months, the program seeks to improve enrollment and success rates for these students. AccessLex Institute emphasizes research-backed strategies and collaborative programs to enhance educational outcomes in legal education.

The Chick-fil-A Community Scholars program awards up to thirteen $25,000 scholarships annually to students demonstrating academic excellence, community service, and financial need. In addition to financial support, recipients participate in a year-long mentoring and leadership development program. This initiative aims to cultivate future leaders who are committed to serving their communities, while also alleviating educational costs associated with attending accredited colleges or vocational schools.

The Richmond Christmas Mother Fund Grant, established in 1935, aims to support underprivileged families in Richmond during the holiday season. Through partnerships with local nonprofits, the Fund provides essential holiday assistance, including toys, clothing, and food. The United Way administers the Fund, ensuring donations are processed efficiently. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving the Greater Richmond area, promoting community inclusivity. This initiative highlights the importance of generosity and community spirit during the festive season.

About Us

Making a Difference, Together

The Community Foundation of Monroe County (CFMC) builds a thriving, inclusive community through the power of philanthropy. By connecting generous donors with local causes, we help ensure Monroe County remains a place where everyone can thrive. Since our founding, we’ve been a trusted steward of community resources, fostering impactful collaborations and sustainable solutions to address challenges in education, health, poverty, and community development.

Scholarship Opportunities

Whether you’re heading to college, pursuing a technical career, or furthering your education as an adult, there’s a scholarship for you.

Ahadi Women in Science Scholarship

For female graduating seniors from Monroe County high schools entering a science-related field.

The Industrial Energy Storage Systems Prize, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy, offers $4.8 million to promote innovative thermal energy storage solutions for the industrial sector. With three phases from 2025 to 2026, participants can win cash prizes by developing cost-effective concepts to enhance energy efficiency. This initiative encourages the adoption of sustainable technologies to address energy demands while reducing the strain on the electric grid, supporting the overall decarbonization goals of the industry.

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation 

The Greater Kansas City Community Foundation is a nationally respected leader in charitable giving, dedicated to improving quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing philanthropy, educating and connecting donors to community needs, and leading on critical local issues. Founded in 1978 with a simple belief that charitable giving should be accessible to all, the Foundation has grown into one of the largest and most innovative public charities in the country, offering donor advised funds and other giving vehicles that make philanthropy convenient, efficient, and impactful. Today, it manages more than $7 billion in assets, administers over 7,000 charitable funds, and has distributed more than $8 billion in grants, consistently ranking among the top community foundations nationwide.

Kelly Williams Memorial Scholarship Fund

Kelly Williams Memorial Scholarship Fund provides scholarship support to children, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren of current Altec Industries employees who are pursuing an engineering degree at an accredited two year or four year college or university. Eligible applicants must be enrolled or planning to enroll as full time students in an engineering program and meet academic requirements, including a minimum 3.5 high school GPA and qualifying ACT or SAT scores for U.S. students, or an 80 percent honours average for Canadian students. The scholarship supports both U.S. and Canadian applicants who meet eligibility criteria and are preparing for careers in engineering.

The Wallace K. and Jane Ewing Scholarship, funded by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports high school seniors from the Tri-Cities pursuing studies in English. This scholarship considers financial need and involvement in arts and humanities activities, aiming to empower local students to achieve their educational goals. Applicants must submit transcripts and relevant documents, ensuring a comprehensive review process. This initiative reflects the commitment of Wally and Jane to positively impact student futures in the community.

The AFRL Directed Energy Directorate invites applications for unclassified research projects related to directed energy technologies. This initiative seeks partnerships with U.S. colleges and universities to advance fundamental research in areas such as Laser Systems, High Power Electromagnetics, and Weapons Modeling. The goal is to support the Department of Defense's mission by fostering innovative research that aligns with national security interests. Proposals are accepted until July 18, 2029.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is continuing its support for the NeuroNEXT initiative, which focuses on conducting clinical trials and biomarker validation studies for neurological disorders. This infrastructure aims to foster innovation and enhance the development of effective neurotherapeutics for both adult and pediatric populations. While applications for network clinical research sites are not currently being solicited, this notice allows potential applicants to prepare collaborative and responsive applications.

The Limited Competition Small Grant Program for the NCATS CTSA Program aims to empower KL2 scholars by funding diverse clinical and translational research projects. These grants support short-term studies, methodology development, and preliminary data collection, facilitating the transition to independent research careers. Applications will undergo NIH peer review, ensuring only high-quality proposals receive funding. This initiative fosters innovation in research methodologies and technology, ultimately enhancing the capabilities of emerging translational scientists.

Simon and Donna Dragan Scholarship Fund

Created in 2025 by Simon and Donna Dragan, this scholarship will provide financial support to students enrolled in a trade school to further their construction skills and/or students pursuing a two- or four-year college degree in engineering or construction. 

Simon Dragan is a native of Vurpar, Transylvania, Romania. He came to the United States after escaping Communist Romania in 1969 and held a variety of entry-level positions in the Baltimore area before finding work with Williams-Scotsman, a distributor of modular and mobile buildings. Mr. Dragan worked in various roles at Williams- Scotsman, ultimately serving as Executive Vice President of Operations. In 1993, he purchased Whitley Manufacturing from Williams-Scotsman—a factory located in South Whitley, Indiana—and developed it into one of the nation’s leading manufacturers of modular structures. Under his leadership, Whitley expanded from a single facility into a nationwide enterprise serving diverse markets including education, healthcare, government, retail, and commercial sectors.

A visionary leader in the modular construction industry, Mr. Dragan was inducted into the Modular Building Institute (MBI) Hall of Fame in 2002 in recognition of his lasting contributions to modular design and manufacturing excellence. In July 2025, Mr. Dragan sold Whitley Manufacturing to Sunbelt Modular, headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. Grateful for the opportunities he found in the United States, Mr. Dragan has given back extensively to various nonprofit organizations and charitable causes.

Armstrong County Community Foundation (The Community Foundation Serving the Heart of Western Pennsylvania)

In 1997 Merchants National Bank, an Armstrong County community bank, marked its 100th anniversary. The centennial celebration included a unique expression of gratitude to the community in the form of $100,000 to be used as a seed fund to initiate a community foundation for Armstrong County. The bank challenged the community to keep the principal balance of the endowed funds intact and spend only a portion of the interest earnings to ensure a lasting legacy.

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Armstrong County Bar Association Scholarship

In accordance with the mission of the Foundation, the purpose of the Fund is to provide a scholarship to an individual who was a resident of Armstrong County at the time of graduation from high school or who was a graduate of a school district with an attendance area including Armstrong County. The recipient must be enrolled to attend, or already attending an accredited law school in the United States as approved by the Foundation’s Board of Directors.

The Russell Sage Foundation's Core Research Grants program focuses on Race, Ethnicity, and Immigration, aiming to foster interdisciplinary research on the changing demographics of the U.S. population. This initiative encourages innovative collaboration among social scientists to enhance research quality and support the ideals of a pluralistic society. By building on insights from previous programs, it seeks to address critical questions concerning race and ethnicity within the context of immigration.

The BRAIN Initiative, led by the NIH, aims to advance neurotechnologies at institutions with limited NIH funding. This funding opportunity encourages collaboration and knowledge transfer to integrate innovative neurotechnologies into research and training programs. While applications are currently not being solicited, potential applicants should start developing partnerships and projects in preparation for future submissions. This initiative will enhance the dissemination of BRAIN technologies and support novel research practices.

The Captain Jesse Ozbat 'Honor Above All' Endowed Scholarship supports students from Prince George High School, especially those majoring in mathematics or involved in Junior ROTC. It emphasizes academic achievement, citizenship, and community service. The scholarship aims to honor Captain Ozbat's legacy, who made the ultimate sacrifice for his country. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and commitment to education through required documentation. This scholarship serves as a tribute to a dedicated soldier, encouraging youth to pursue their educational aspirations.

Scholarship funds are established by local individuals, families, businesses and organizations. They provide tuition assistance and financial support to new and continuing college students, and many offer renewable awards.

Jessica Lynn Herman Memorial Scholarship

Graduating high school senior from the Huntington Beach High School District with a passion for both the sciences and humanities and demonstrated commitment to mentoring or tutoring. 

The Global Technology Industry Association (GTIA) Grant supports nonprofits and schools leveraging technology to enhance lives in under-resourced communities. GTIA provides funding for innovative solutions addressing challenges like broadband access and educational equity. Eligible applicants are encouraged to apply, especially those referred by GTIA members. Key focus areas include educational technology, bridging the digital divide, and workforce initiatives that promote equitable access to resources and opportunities.

The Ben May Charitable Trust, established in 1971 by Mr. Ben May, supports charitable, scientific, and educational initiatives. Notably, it has funded the Ben May Laboratory for Cancer Research at the University of Chicago, contributing to significant medical advancements. The Trust accepts funding requests from 501(c)(3) organizations. Mr. May's legacy includes support for renowned researchers and institutions, ensuring ongoing contributions to the field of medical science and education.

Youth Service America

Youth Service America believes that youth, communities, and our democracy thrive when we all work together for the common good. YSA is a leading global nonprofit that activates young people, ages 5-25, to find their voice, take action, and acquire powerful civic and 21st Century skills as they solve problems facing their communities. YSA supports its activation campaigns with grants, training and resources, and recognition programs for young people and their adult champions. Youth-led projects use Awareness, Service, Advocacy, and Philanthropy (ASAP) strategies to create social and environmental change.

Our vision is that youth participation in working together for the common good becomes the common expectation and common experience of all young people in America. Even though youth participation rates are at or near record-high levels, we’re still leaving 3 of every 4 young people out, and participation rates are even lower among youth from underserved low-income communities and communities of color.

We Serve to Remember 9/11 Day of Service Grants

YSA’s We Serve to Remember 9/11 Day of Service Grants are for organizations, schools, and youth changemakers ages 5-25 to lead service projects on or around September 11, 2026. Programming efforts should also honor and pay tribute to those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, their families, and those who rose in service in response to that tragedy.

This year, YSA will award up to 100 grants of $1,000 each. Grantees are required to engage at least 100 youth as volunteers in planning and implementing the service activities.

Reflecting on the spirit of togetherness that brought people together in the days, weeks, and months after September 11th, we are especially looking for ideas that bring together all members of the community.