Best Washington County Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

About Us

The Elk County Community Foundation was started in the late 1990’s by a group of business and civic leaders, with the support of the Stackpole-Hall Foundation, who recognized the need for creating a perpetual funding stream to support Elk County—now and in the future. The Foundation was incorporated in 2000 and a year later was classified as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

The Foundation provides donors with a simple but powerful and highly personal approach to achieving their philanthropic goals while enhancing the quality of life for the people of Elk County.

The Community Foundation makes it easy for individuals, businesses, and organizations to establish a scholarship fund. Your fund can be created in as little as one meeting, with a short fund agreement, and a single gift. Or your fund can be set up with an initial gift that is added to in the future. We manage all the administrative details of your fund for you.

By establishing a uniquely-named scholarship, you have the ability to designate eligibility requirements including education level, the field of study, geographic area, etc. Many scholarships are established to honor parents, a family member, or someone who influenced your life.

Most scholarship funds at the Foundation are permanent endowments, with the annual earnings used to provide the scholarships

Tyler Bender EMS Scholarship Fund

Tyler Bender recently graduated from the Center for Emergency Medicine, and he felt compelled to give back by starting this scholarship to encourage other individuals to consider the EMS field. There is a constant demand for well-trained and qualified EMS professionals. Tyler hopes that this scholarship fund will help attract individuals to the field and alleviate a shortage of EMS personnel.

Amount: $500 annually

Minnesota Department of Health

Mission: Protecting, maintaining and improving the health of all Minnesotans.

Vision: The vision of MDH is for health equity in Minnesota, where all communities are thriving and all people have what they need to be healthy.

Rural Health Transformation Program Funding 

The federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) was created by H.R.1 (Section 71401 of Public Law 119-21) on July 4, 2025. It is a federal initiative to help states support rural communities in improving health care access, quality, and outcomes by transforming the health care delivery ecosystem. The RHTP focuses on promoting innovation, strategic partnerships, infrastructure development, and workforce investment in rural communities. Minnesota has outlined their initiatives online (learn more about Minnesota's Rural Health Transformation Program).

Grant recipients will select activities from broad RHTP initiatives designed to advance the overarching goals of improving health outcomes and access to care for rural Minnesotans, sustainably expanding the rural health care workforce, strengthening partnerships between providers to expand service delivery in rural communities, and stabilizing rural provider financial health through strategic investments. 

Entity Type: Tribal Nations (Bois Forte Band of Chippewa; Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa; Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa; Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe; Lower Sioux Indian Community; Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe; Oyate (Upper Sioux); Prairie Island Indian Community; Red Lake Nation; White Earth Nation)

Estimated Number of Awards: 10

Estimated Maximum Award in Budget Period 1: $150,000 - $807,996

Applicants may request up to the maximum award.

James Weldon Johnson Scholarship

The James Weldon Johnson Scholarship, powered by Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., is one of many funding opportunities available to students through the NAACP's Inspire Initiatives. We offer scholarships to outstanding and qualified students pursuing undergraduate degrees. Through the generosity of our donors, we advance efforts to ensure equity in educational opportunity that prepares students for success in school, work, and life.

The James Weldon Johnson Scholarship is open to first- or second-year male students who will matriculate to full-time enrollment at an accredited academic institution in Fall 2025.

Scholarship amount:

• $1,500

Amount of Scholarships:

• 15

This is a non-renewable scholarship opportunity.

Minnesota Department of Health

Mission: Protecting, maintaining and improving the health of all Minnesotans.

Vision: The vision of MDH is for health equity in Minnesota, where all communities are thriving and all people have what they need to be healthy.

Rural Health Transformation Program Funding 

The federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) was created by H.R.1 (Section 71401 of Public Law 119-21) on July 4, 2025. It is a federal initiative to help states support rural communities in improving health care access, quality, and outcomes by transforming the health care delivery ecosystem. The RHTP focuses on promoting innovation, strategic partnerships, infrastructure development, and workforce investment in rural communities. Minnesota has outlined their initiatives online (learn more about Minnesota's Rural Health Transformation Program).

Grant recipients will select activities from broad RHTP initiatives designed to advance the overarching goals of improving health outcomes and access to care for rural Minnesotans, sustainably expanding the rural health care workforce, strengthening partnerships between providers to expand service delivery in rural communities, and stabilizing rural provider financial health through strategic investments. 

Entity Type: Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) and Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs)

Estimated Number of Awards: 16

Estimated Maximum Award in Budget Period 1: $240,000

Applicants may request up to the maximum award.

Empowering a Better Tomorrow Scholarship

The Empowering a Better Tomorrow Scholarship, powered by Walmart, is intended to assist in the creation of a pathway for those who desire to further their education as they enter back into society. This scholarship will be available to the formerly incarcerated or those who have recently been convicted and who have completed their sentence. This scholarship will be awarded to individuals who can exhibit qualities of leadership, commitment to change, and desire to give back to their community.

Scholarship amount:

• $5,000

This is a non-renewable scholarship opportunity.

The Staff Sgt. Carl Enis Military Scholarship honors the legacy of Staff Sgt. Carl Enis, a dedicated Air Force Pararescueman who tragically lost his life in service. Established by the Elk County Community Foundation, this scholarship supports high school seniors and adult learners from McKean, Cameron, Potter, or Elk County. Eligible candidates must demonstrate academic merit, community involvement, and enrollment in a post-secondary program, with an annual award amount of approximately $500.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Jessie F. Dalman Scholarship

• Graduating senior or graduating early college student who attends public or private school within the primary service area of the Community Foundation or at Hudsonville High School or Hudsonville Unity Christian High School
• Enrolling in a 4-year degree program at an accredited post-secondary school within the United States
• GPA of 3.8 or greater and ranked in the top 10 percent of graduating class
• United States citizen
• Leadership is an additional consideration

The Ruth E. Reed Nursing Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of the Northern Alleghenies, honors the legacy of Ruth Reed, a dedicated nurse. This scholarship supports students from Elk, Warren, and Clearfield Counties pursuing nursing degrees, with a GPA requirement of 2.5 or higher. With an annual award of approximately $500, it encourages future generations to pursue careers in nursing while recognizing the importance of continued education in healthcare.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Kaminski Family Scholarship

• Graduating senior who attends public, private, or home school in the primary service area of the Community Foundation
• Enrolling in a 2 or 4-year degree program at an accredited post-secondary school (including vocational/technical school) within the United States
• Financial need (must submit the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)

The Kelley Hritz Memorial Arts Scholarship, established in memory of Kelley Hritz, supports high school seniors from Elk, McKean, and Cameron Counties, as well as Chestnut Ridge High School, pursuing post-secondary education in an art-related field. Applicants must be active in school and community activities and submit two pieces of artwork. This scholarship, valued at $1,000 annually, aims to inspire future artists to create and share their passion for the arts.

The APMI West Penn Chapter Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of the Northern Alleghenies, supports graduating seniors from specific school districts pursuing degrees in STEM fields related to the powdered metal industry. With an annual amount of $1,000, this scholarship fosters academic growth and career development for students in Ridgway, Johnsonburg, St. Marys, and surrounding areas. The fund aims to enhance educational opportunities and encourage future leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The Gilbert “Gibby” Buerk Memorial Scholarship is aimed at Elk County high school seniors and non-traditional students pursuing careers in EMT or paramedic fields. Established by the Elk County Community Foundation, this scholarship honors the legacy of Gilbert J. Buerk, a dedicated EMT. Applicants must demonstrate community involvement and financial need. This fund provides a lasting opportunity for students to advance their education and serve their community, reflecting Gibby's commitment to helping others.

The Latin Americans United for Progress Dream Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area, supports Hispanic students pursuing post-secondary education. Applicants must be graduating seniors or early college students, demonstrate financial need, and submit a personal statement. With over $1 million awarded annually in scholarships, this program aims to empower the next generation of leaders from the Hispanic community, promoting educational advancement and cultural appreciation.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Mark Winia Memorial Soccer Scholarship

• Graduating senior or graduating early college student who attends public, private, or home school in the primary service area of the Community Foundation or in Hamilton or Saugatuck
• Enrolling at an accredited post-secondary school within the United States
• Financial need, a consideration (encouraged to submit the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)
• GPA of 2.5 or greater
• Club or varsity soccer participant
• High involvement and giving back to the soccer world through participation in activities such as coaching, mentoring, refereeing, or Cleats for Kids
• Recommended by applicant’s club or school soccer coach
• 1,200-character or less essay explaining how you have given back to the sport of soccer beyond participating on teams and being a team captain or co-captain

The Hofma Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports local high school graduates motivated to pursue college education. This competitive scholarship considers financial need, academic achievement, and personal goals. Applicants can submit a single application for multiple scholarships, simplifying the process. Established by Edward and Elizabeth Hofma, who significantly contributed to the community, the scholarship honors their legacy and commitment to education and environmental efforts.

The Hierholzer-Fojtik Scholarship, established in 2006 by Frances Hierholzer, supports students pursuing a career in law. It is awarded to Grand Haven Area Public Schools graduates with demonstrated financial need. The scholarship offers a streamlined application process for all eligible foundation scholarships. Frances, inspired by her grandson's success with a GHACF scholarship, aims to give back to the community that helped him achieve his educational dreams.

The Herman J. and Helen D. Wyngarden Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students from Northern Ottawa County or local high schools. Established in memory of dedicated educators, this scholarship encourages academic advancement beyond high school. Eligible applicants should provide transcripts and relevant documents, with preference given to those pursuing economics or medicine. This competitive scholarship aims to honor the legacy of the Wyngardens while empowering future leaders.

The Henry D. and Ruth G. Swartz Family Fund Scholarship, established in 1996, supports high school seniors from North Ottawa County pursuing post-secondary education in engineering, computer science, pre-law, or medicine. Awarded competitively by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, applicants must demonstrate financial need and provide necessary documentation, including transcripts and recommendation letters. This scholarship honors the legacy of local residents Hank and Ruth Swartz, encouraging students to achieve their educational goals.

The Grand Haven Rotary/Lynne Sherwood STRIVE Scholarship supports graduating seniors from Grand Haven Area Public Schools, especially Central High School, who have benefitted from a mentor's guidance while pursuing their diploma or GED. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and academic achievements, with a thorough selection process by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation. Applicants can submit one application for multiple scholarships, streamlining access to financial support for their educational goals.

The Grand Haven Offshore Challenge Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students pursuing studies in natural resources, including fisheries and wildlife. This scholarship is available for applicants attending any public or private college or university. The fund was established to honor community contributions towards environmental preservation and is awarded based on academic merit and financial need. Apply once for all scholarships you may qualify for to streamline your application process.

The Grand Haven Area Community Foundation Scholarship, established in 2003, provides financial assistance to local students pursuing education beyond high school. Scholarships are awarded based on criteria such as financial need, academic achievement, and personal goals. Applicants may apply once for all eligible scholarships, and the selection process is thorough, ensuring that exceptional candidates are chosen each year. This initiative reflects the community's commitment to supporting the educational aspirations of its youth.

The Geri Coccodrilli Culinary Scholarship, established by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports high school seniors pursuing careers in culinary arts. Funded through charitable efforts by local community leaders, this scholarship considers financial need and requires applicants to submit transcripts and additional documents. It simplifies the application process by allowing students to apply for multiple scholarships at once, ensuring a fair and thorough selection process.

The Fugazzotto Scholarship Fund for Visual Arts Students, established by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports Tri-Cities residents pursuing careers in visual arts. This scholarship honors Barbara Fugazzotto's legacy as an art educator, encouraging students to explore their creativity in drawing, painting, ceramics, and graphic design. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. The scholarship aims to nurture future artists who contribute to the cultural landscape.

The Friends of Loutit Library Fund Scholarship, established by the Friends of Loutit Library in 2005, aims to assist students pursuing an advanced degree in Library Science. This scholarship is open to individuals who either reside or have resided in the Tri-Cities area of Northern Ottawa County. Financial need is not a consideration, ensuring that all eligible students can apply for this essential educational support from the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation.

The Edward P. Suchecki Family Scholarship, established by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports local high school senior athletes pursuing a business career. Named after Ed Suchecki, a dedicated coach and businessman who valued education, this scholarship prioritizes financial need and favors football and golf players. Applicants must submit their transcripts and other required documents. This initiative aims to empower young athletes to achieve their educational goals.

The Dr. Larry Poel Field of Medicine Scholarship, administered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students from Ottawa or Muskegon County who have completed at least two years of college in a medical field. With a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0, the scholarship aims to honor Dr. Poel's 42-year career in sports medicine and encourage future medical professionals. Preference is given to those studying sports medicine, ensuring community-focused support.

Transportation Research and Policy

Arnold Ventures (AV) is a philanthropy dedicated to improving the lives of all Americans through evidence-based solutions that maximize opportunity and minimize injustice.

The Infrastructure team has been investing in efforts to build better, faster, and lower-cost infrastructure with a focus on housing, energy, and transportation. For transportation, we are investing in policymaking and research that tackles the inefficiencies that make U.S. transportation infrastructure so difficult and expensive to build. 

Purpose

Transportation policy represents an avenue for improving the systems moving people, goods, and services. The Infrastructure team is seeking proposals evaluating the effectiveness and/or benefits of existing transportation or transportation-adjacent policies on outcomes for communities in the United States.

Eligible Projects and Topic Areas of Interest

This Request for Proposals (RFP) aims to bolster the knowledge base of potentially effective policies, programs, and interventions by funding efforts that align with key AV Infrastructure policy areas.

AV is primarily focused on traditional surface transportation — road and public transit — but is open to proposals in aviation, maritime, passenger and freight rail, trucking, and more.

We seek proposals for: 1) research, expanded data sets, or analysis; 2) administrative or legislative policy reforms at the federal, state, or local level; or 3) models of effective implementation including proposals for implementing agencies to partner with researchers or program evaluators to conduct baseline and post-intervention research on implementation effectiveness that will advance the knowledge base and provide illustrative examples within, but not limited to, the following topic areas:

• Transportation Capital Investment Reform. Evaluating how capital funding is prioritized and selected at the federal, state, or regional level, including discretionary grant programs and formula-based funding. What reforms could ensure projects deliver higher public returns?

• Cost Estimation, Oversight, and Accountability. Why do major transportation projects frequently exceed budgets and timelines, and how can we identify strategies to improve transparency, cost realism, and performance oversight?

• Access in Mobility Outcomes. Measuring how current transportation investments affect access to jobs, services, and economic opportunities for workers and families, and what policy changes could improve access.

• Performance-Based Project Selection. How can public agencies shift from current, politically driven allocations to datadriven, performance-based decision-making on capital project selections?

• Institutional Barriers to Reform. What organizational, legal, or procedural hurdles prevent DOTs and MPOs from adopting better practices (e.g., outcome-based planning, integrated land use/transportation policy)?

• Permitting and Permit Reform. How do current local, state, and federal permitting practices affect project cost, quality, timeline, and other concerns?

• Intergovernmental Dynamics. How do federal, state, and local funding structures and requirements enable or constrain effective transportation investment? What governance structures would improve outcomes when it comes to transportation planning and project delivery?

• Data Sets and Root Causes of High Delivery Costs. Expanded data sets on unit costs and/or research illuminating the root causes of why transportation and transit projects cost so much and take so long to deliver. What policy and practice changes could manage project delivery risks and improve the likelihood that projects will be delivered on s chedule and on budget?

• Domestic Content. How do Buy America and domestic content requirements affect the cost, speed, innovation, and effectiveness of transportation infrastructure projects?

• Procurement Process. How do current procurement practices affect project cost, quality, innovation, and accountability — and what policy and regulatory reforms could improve outcomes?

• Other. AV also welcomes innovative proposals on other transportation issues that align with our mission.

These research, policy development, and implementation proposals can be relevant to federal surface transportation reauthorization legislation or federal administrative changes; state reforms to Departments of Transportation; and/or local-level reforms relevant either to regional transportation agencies, transit agencies, or municipal governments.