Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Virginia

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

Rolf Landauer and Charles H. Bennett Award in Quantum Computing

This award recognizes recent outstanding contributions in quantum information science, especially using quantum effects to perform computational and information-management tasks that would be impossible or infeasible by purely classical means. The award is given annually and will consist of $5,000 and a certificate citing the contributions of the recipient, plus an allowance for travel to an APS meeting to receive the award and deliver an invited lecture.

The Creative Projects Grant, previously known as the Creative Catalyst Grant, supports Illinois artists and non-profit organizations in developing arts-related projects, events, and professional growth. With an open deadline until funds are expended, applicants must submit their proposals at least eight weeks before their project's start date. As of September 2025, demand exceeds available funds, and award notifications continue as reviews are completed. Future details for the FY27 grants will be announced next year.

The Folke H. Peterson Foundation Grant aims to prevent cruelty to animals and enhance their welfare. It provides funding for organizations focused on animal protection, medical assistance, and food supplies, ensuring these efforts directly benefit animals. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations within the United States. Notably, the foundation will not support any organization involved in euthanizing healthy animals, reinforcing its commitment to animal welfare.

The Simons Foundation's Scientific Software Research Faculty Award supports faculty positions focusing on scientific software development in mathematics and physics. It aims to enhance research capabilities by providing five years of salary support and a $50,000 yearly research allowance. Awardees must have a Ph.D. and demonstrate leadership in scientific software. This initiative addresses the career limitations faced by software experts and encourages applications from underrepresented groups.

The PLTW Computer Science grant, funded by Lockheed Martin, aims to support schools in expanding or establishing PLTW Computer Science courses. This initiative addresses the critical shortage of skilled professionals in STEM fields, enabling students to gain essential knowledge and skills. Since 2007, Lockheed Martin has successfully partnered with PLTW to implement programs across the nation, impacting over 77,000 students. Schools are encouraged to apply for funding to enhance their computer science curriculum.

The Harvard-Yenching Library Travel Grant supports scholars outside Boston in utilizing its extensive collections for research. This program prioritizes non-tenured faculty, dissertation-writing Ph.D. candidates, and independent scholars, especially those from institutions lacking East Asian language resources. Grants are awarded based on merit and must be used by August 31, 2026, to encourage diverse academic engagement and exploration.

The Forrest E. Mars, Jr. Chocolate History Grant, offered by the Mars Wrigley Foundation, supports projects that explore and share chocolate's rich cultural history. Launched in 2013, this grant aims to educate the public about chocolate's global significance and its impact on heritage. Projects can include research, immersive experiences, and publications. Awardees must present their findings at Heritage Chocolate Society meetings, emphasizing educational impact, equity, and inclusion in their proposals.

The Peter G. Peterson Foundation Grant aims to address America's long-term fiscal challenges by promoting awareness and encouraging action. The Foundation supports innovative projects that align with its mission, particularly those by U.S.-based 501(c)(3) non-profits capable of national impact. Eligible applicants should have a minimum two-year existence and an annual budget of at least $1 million. The Foundation avoids funding organizations outside the U.S. or those involved in political activities.

The AAO-HNSF Rande H. Lazar Health Services Research Grant offers $10,000 for one year to support research in otolaryngology. It aims to enhance participation in health services research by gathering socioeconomic data. Eligible applicants include otolaryngologists in the U.S. and Canada, including independent practitioners and residents. Projects must demonstrate clinical significance and innovation, with priority given to those that can attract further funding. Special consideration is given to research focusing on the socioeconomic impact of otolaryngology services.

The AAO-HNSF Health Services Research Grant provides $10,000 for one year to support research that enhances the effectiveness and appropriateness of medical practices in otolaryngology. Projects should yield clinically significant findings within the award period and can be innovative in nature. Eligible applicants include otolaryngologists from the U.S. and Canada, with support letters required from Department Chairs. Funding cannot be used for Principal Investigator salaries or clerical support, and detailed budgeting is crucial for application.

The AAO-HNSF Resident Research Award provides $10,000 to support innovative resident research in otolaryngology. It encourages projects that enhance patient safety and quality improvement, focusing on collaboration with preceptor investigators. Applications must include letters of support and a detailed budget. This grant aims to foster original, scientifically valid research that can significantly advance the field of otolaryngology and improve healthcare outcomes.

Robert H. Moser Essay Award

To honor the late Robert H. Moser, MD (AΩA, Georgetown University, 1969). Awarded to one outstanding essay celebrating the life of a physician like Dr. Moser who has enriched the world through his/her career in medicine.

Background

Dr. Moser organized and worked in one of the first MASH units during the Korean War. He was a pioneering flight controller for NASA during the Project Mercury and Project Apollo space programs, served as Chief of Medicine at Tripler Army Medical Center in Hawaii, and treated patients at the Kalaupapa Leper Colony in Molokai. He was Chief of Medicine at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, editor of JAMA, Executive Vice President of the American College of Physicians and a member of The Pharos Editorial Board.

The Award

One award of $4,500 for an essay highlighting the life of a physician who has enriched the world of medicine. The winning essay will be published in The Pharos. The winning author must submit a W-9 form prior to issuance of the award check.

The CCWH/Berks Graduate Student Fellowship, offered by the Coordinating Council for Women in History, provides a $1000 award to graduate students in U.S. history departments who are completing a dissertation. This fellowship aims to support crucial research stages or the final year of writing. Applicants must be graduate students who have achieved A.B.D. status and may specialize in any history field, ensuring diverse representation in women's history.

The Budding Botanist Grant, offered by the Klorane Botanical Foundation, aims to educate students about environmental sustainability and biodiversity through school garden programs. In 2023, grants of $1000 will be awarded to twenty schools across the U.S., prioritizing those with a significant percentage of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals. This initiative encourages young learners to explore and care for their local ecosystems.

The AHNS Alando J. Ballantyne Trainee Research Pilot Grant aims to support innovative research in head and neck oncology, focusing on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of neoplastic diseases. Open to residents in U.S. or Canadian training programs who are AHNS members, this grant encourages collaboration across disciplines and requires letters of support from academic chairs and mentors. Projects should yield useful results within the award period, with a total funding limit of $20,000.

The Alexander McCausland Charitable Trust Grant supports organizations that promote the humane treatment and care of animals in Roanoke, Virginia, and surrounding areas. Focused on preventing cruelty and ensuring health, protection, and appropriate shelter for animals, the Trust prioritizes grants to 501(c)(3) exempt organizations. Notably, it does not fund entities that engage in euthanasia. This initiative reflects Mr. McCausland's dedication to animal welfare and community support.

The Outreach Volunteer of the Year Award, presented by the American Chemical Society, recognizes exceptional volunteers from local sections and international chapters who educate the public about chemistry. This award highlights the vital contributions of volunteers to the community and promotes scientific outreach. Awardees receive a certificate and a small gift during events, and their achievements are celebrated at the annual ChemLuminary Awards. This initiative aims to inspire future generations and strengthen the chemistry community.

The National Facilities program, funded by the National Science Foundation, provides essential research capabilities through specialized user facilities across various scientific disciplines including biology, chemistry, and physics. These facilities offer advanced instrumentation and resources for research in high magnetic fields and nanofabrication. They not only support scientists and engineers but also engage students and teachers through educational initiatives, enhancing public awareness and contributing to curriculum development.

The National Chemical Technician Award, presented by the American Chemical Society (ACS), recognizes outstanding excellence among chemical technology professionals. Winners receive a $1,000 prize and a plaque at the ACS Spring meeting, with travel expenses covered. This award honors the contributions of technicians, operators, and analysts in advancing the field, promoting professionalism and expertise within the community. Nominees must have five years of relevant employment, though ACS membership is not required.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

Leo P. Kadanoff Prize

This prize recognizes scientists whose theoretical, experimental, or computational achievements have opened new vistas for statistical and or nonlinear physics. The annual prize consists of $10,000, a medal, certificate, travel reimbursement up to $500 for recipients traveling within North America, up to $1,000 from overseas, and a registration waiver to attend the APS March Meeting to give an invited talk and accept the award.

Nominations will be considered for three review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

Leo Szilard Lectureship Award

To recognize outstanding accomplishments by physicists in promoting the use of physics for the benefit of society in such areas as the environment, arms control, and science policy. The lecture format is intended to increase the visibility of those who have promoted the use of physics for the benefit of society. The award consists of $5,000, a certificate citing the contributions of the recipient, plus $2,000 travel expenses for lectures given by the recipient at an APS meeting and at two or more educational institutions or research laboratories in the year following the award. The lectures should be especially aimed at physicists early in their careers.

Nominations will be considered for three review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.

The Iber Health Education Scholarship, a program of the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin, supports graduate students pursuing health-related studies. With scholarships ranging from $500 to $40,000, the foundation aids students in enhancing their educational opportunities. Applicants must be Portage County residents, demonstrating academic excellence, financial need, and community involvement. Special consideration is given to those likely to return to the area post-graduation. This initiative aims to foster future leaders in healthcare.

The Indigo Oak Fund is a Colorado-based foundation dedicated to empowering individuals through support for education, the arts, and social justice. Focused on fostering lifelong learning and creative expression, the Fund aids various programs that enhance community engagement. It supports both youth and adult initiatives, including classes and community events in diverse artistic disciplines. By prioritizing equal opportunity and personal potential, the Fund strives to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and the community.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

LeRoy Apker Award

The LeRoy Apker Award recognizes outstanding achievements in physics by undergraduate students, and provides encouragement to students who have demonstrated great potential for future scientific accomplishment. Two awards are presented each year, one to a student from a PhD granting institution, and one to a student from a non-PhD granting institution. The award consists of $5,000 for the recipient, $5,000 for their undergraduate institution's physics department to support undergraduate research, a certificate, and reimbursement for travel to an APS meeting to give an invited talk.

Six finalists are selected to present their research for the Apker Award Selection Committee. Each of the finalists will receive an honorarium of $2,000, $1,000 for their undergraduate institution’s physics department to support undergraduate research, reimbursement for travel to the selection meeting, and a certificate.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

Lev D. Landau and Lyman Spitzer Jr. Award for Outstanding Contributions to Plasma Physics

Recognizes outstanding theoretical, experimental, or technical contribution(s) in plasma physics and for advancing the collaboration and unity between Europe and the United States of America by joint research or research that advances knowledge which benefits the two communities in a unique way.

The award may be given to a team or collaboration of up to four persons affiliated with either European or United States institutions.

The award consists of $4,000, a certificate citing the contributions made by the recipient, and a registration fee waiver to attend the meeting at which the award is to be presented.

The person or team receiving the award will be offered an invited talk at the forthcoming annual conference of APS-DPP (usually early November) or EPS-DPP (usually end of June, or first week of July), depending on the affiliation of the recipient(s).

On years that DPP is hosting, in the event of a team larger than five (5), DPP may cap the number of registration waivers.

The ACS Award in Pure Chemistry recognizes early career researchers for their outstanding contributions to fundamental research in pure chemistry. Established in 1931, the award includes a $5,000 prize and reimbursement for up to $1,000 in travel expenses to the award presentation meeting. Nominees must have less than 10 years of experience since their terminal degree and demonstrate exceptional research merit. Special consideration is given to originality and independence of thought in submitted research.

The Garden Grant Program by Whole Kids Foundation offers $3,000 to schools and non-profits to create or enhance edible educational gardens. This initiative connects children with food, fostering curiosity and healthy eating habits. Eligible applicants include K-12 schools and organizations that regularly engage at least ten children in gardening activities. The program emphasizes the importance of hands-on learning about food and gardening, aiming to inspire a new generation of healthy eaters.