Best Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Virginia

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 Altrusa Club of Dayton Kay Webster Scholarship honors the late Kay Webster, a passionate advocate for children's literacy and former president of the Altrusa Club. Established in her memory, this scholarship supports graduating seniors from Montgomery or Greene County, Ohio, who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need, particularly those majoring in education or related fields. With a legacy of promoting literacy, the scholarship continues Kay's mission to impact the lives of children positively.

St. Julian and Adrienne Simpkins Book Award

To provide book awards to students pursuing higher education.

Number and Size of Awards

Up to five awards of $500 each; paid in one lump sum in the Fall semester.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for college textbook expenses.

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 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 Alleen O. McCoy Scholarship, established in 2024, honors the legacy of a dedicated educator whose commitment to learning inspired many. This scholarship supports students from Dayton Public High Schools aiming to attend college, with a preference for those attending historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). It seeks to empower future leaders who share Alleen's passion for education and community impact, ensuring her influence continues through the next generation.

Radio Flyer is dedicated to supporting organizations that promote outdoor play and well-being for children. They focus on charitable giving to national organizations like The Starlight Children’s Foundation, which aids children’s health, and partner with KaBOOM! to build playgrounds for underprivileged kids. Local nonprofits in the Chicagoland area are also supported, emphasizing education and health for children up to eight years old. This mission aligns with their goal of creating smiles and lasting memories through play.

Louis P. and Betty A. Iacona Nursing Scholarship

To provide financial assistance to students in Monroe County pursuing a career in nursing.

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $12,000; divided into equal annual installments paid over four consecutive years of undergraduate study. Award may be split between two recipients and is paid in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters. Minimum award $4,000; paid as $1,000 per year for up to four years.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

Welcome to the Greater Houston Community Foundation Scholarship Application Site!   

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.

Scholarship Application Info:  

Greater Houston Community Foundation administers over 60 different scholarship programs, each with differing eligibility requirements. Eligibility for some scholarships may be dependent on employment, course of study, high school, or college. 

Bratcher Family Foundation Scholarship

This is a renewable scholarship, meaning recipients can renew the award for multiple years funding if they meet the GPA and enrollment requirements and complete the renewal application for each academic year they plan to be enrolled.

About the Scholarship Award

• One (1) new scholarship awarded annually. Scholarship award amounts and renewal durations vary by degree type:
  • 4-year degree at a college/university - $6,000 per academic year
    • Renewable for up to four (4) years of funding maximum ($24,000 in total), as long as the student meets renewal requirements
• 2-year degree at a trade school/community college - $4,000 per academic year
  • Renewable for up to two (2) years of funding maximum ($8,000 in total), as long as the student meets renewal requirements

What can the scholarship be used for?

• The scholarship will be mailed directly to the student's college to be used towards tuition, required academic fees, and/or book expenses. 
• Scholarship funding cannot be distributed directly to the student. Funding cannot be used for room and board, rent, meal plans, parking passes, or other similar living expenses.

Are there any requirements I must meet if I'm selected as a scholarship recipient?

• Recipients must attend an accredited university, community college, or trade school in the United States.
• Recipients must enroll in at least 12 credit hours for both the fall and spring semesters (or be enrolled full-time according to your school if it is on a different system).
• Recipients must submit college enrollment information online through GHCF Scholar the summer before the academic year begins. This information is required in order for the scholarship check to be mailed to the student's college. Instructions will be included in the student's award letter.
• Recipients must meet certain criteria in order to receive subsequent annual awards (i.e., renewals): maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75, be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours per semester, and complete the renewal application for each academic year they planned to be enrolled.

The Carolyn and Bill Franck Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, provides essential financial support for graduating high school seniors from Henry County or Martinsville pursuing post-secondary education in various fields. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of at least 2.5 and demonstrate financial need through the FAFSA. This scholarship aims to empower deserving students by facilitating their educational aspirations in accredited institutions.

Lorraine Halsch Memorial Scholarship

To provide financial assistance to college-bound students who have overcome adversity (i.e., family tragedy, illness, etc.).

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $6,000; divided into equal annual installments paid over four consecutive years of undergraduate study. Award may be split between two or three recipients and is paid in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters. Minimum award $4,000; paid as $1,000 per year for up to four years.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

The McMichael Family Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, supports women over 21 who are residents of Crown Point, IN. This non-renewable scholarship is designed for college students and adult learners, providing financial assistance to help meet various educational needs. The foundation manages over 80 scholarship funds, tailoring support to the specific criteria set by generous donors, thereby enriching the quality of life in South Lake County.

The Clarence Lee Lester Educational Fund, administered by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, provides scholarships to deserving students pursuing higher education. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors with a minimum 2.5 GPA and a connection to First Baptist Church in Martinsville, VA. This scholarship aims to support capable individuals in their academic journeys, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their educational aspirations. For more information, contact the Foundation directly.

The Davis B. and Barbara J. Francis Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, provides educational scholarships to deserving students in the Roanoke Valley. It aims to support graduating seniors or former graduates pursuing careers in technical theatre or performing arts. Applicants must demonstrate significant contributions to their school's theatre arts program and enroll in an accredited college or technical school. Financial need is considered but not the primary criterion.

The Alvin & Kathryn Schmidt Scholarship, managed by the Crown Point Community Foundation, supports adult learners, particularly women aged 21 and older returning to education. This non-renewable scholarship emphasizes the importance of education for residents of Crown Point, IN, and aims to enhance their quality of life by providing essential financial assistance. The scholarship committee evaluates applications based on criteria set by generous community donors, ensuring tailored support for individual needs.

The Dillon Family Scholarship Fund, established by James M. Dillon, provides financial assistance for higher education to deserving students from specific regions in Virginia. Administered by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, this scholarship supports students who demonstrate financial need and academic potential. Eligible candidates must be graduating seniors from designated public high schools, enrolling in accredited colleges or trade schools. Preference is given to graduates from Alleghany High School, ensuring targeted support for local students.

The Dorothy and Julien Meyer, Sr., M.D. Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, provides scholarships to graduating seniors from Roanoke Valley high schools pursuing premedical studies. This fund aims to support deserving students with financial need, ensuring they can achieve their educational goals. The Foundation administers various scholarships and encourages students to inquire for detailed eligibility criteria and application processes.

The Charles and Marjorie Quickle Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, supports South Lake County residents pursuing degrees in divinity, theology, or religious ministry. This scholarship is open to graduating high school seniors, college students, and adult learners, with the ability to reapply annually. It aims to enhance educational opportunities while fostering community growth and engagement.

William D. and Sallye T. Coleman Memorial Scholarship

This fund provides financial scholarships to deserving young men and women who attend public high school in Roanoke City and members of High Street Baptist Church.

Amount

Amount

• $ 1000+
• non-renewable

The Crown Point Community Foundation Scholarships support graduating high school seniors, college students, and adult learners from Crown Point, Winfield, Cedar Lake, or Lowell. With over 80 scholarship funds established by local donors, the foundation ensures financial assistance is tailored to community needs. Eligible applicants may attend colleges, universities, or vocational schools, but the scholarships are non-renewable. This initiative enriches the quality of life in South Lake County by maximizing charitable giving.

The Edwin K. Mattern, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, supports graduating seniors from the Roanoke Valley pursuing higher education in engineering or architecture. This renewable scholarship emphasizes academic achievement and financial need, requiring recipients to maintain a minimum GPA. Established to empower deserving students, the fund reflects the foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities in the community.

KajjecK Scholarship

To provide financial assistance to Rochester City School District students pursuing a college degree. 

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $4,000; paid as $1,000 per year for up to four consecutive years of undergraduate study. Award paid in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters. ***Offered in even years. ***

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

Dominique's Musician Corner Scholarship, established in 2016 in memory of Dominique Williams, supports students from Beaufort or Jasper Counties in South Carolina and Chatham County in Georgia pursuing post-secondary education in performing arts. This merit-based scholarship does not require financial information and focuses on specific eligibility criteria to ensure the most deserving candidates receive assistance in their artistic endeavors.

Dr. John D. “Jack” Ehrhart Memorial Scholarship

Dr. John D. Ehrhart was a standout athlete in tennis, football, and basketball who graduated from Hoquiam High School in 1935 and went on to study at Stanford University and earn his M.D. degree from Stanford Medical School.

In high school, Jack won the Pacific Northwest Junior Tennis Championship, and in later years he was instrumental in helping young people learn to play tennis. He remained an avid sports fan all his life. He practiced medicine in Aberdeen for nearly 30 years before his life was cut tragically short in 1974 when the plane he was piloting through dense fog crashed in the hills of East Aberdeen.

The Dr. John D. “Jack” Ehrhart Memorial Scholarship is open to all applicants who satisfy the general eligibility requirements of the Scholarship Program