Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Washington

Brandon Wade Minier Memorial Scholarship

The Brandon Wade Minier Memorial Scholarship was established in 2012 to celebrate the life of Brandon Wade Minier. He was a young man of extraordinary talent and personality, who tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident on April 26, 2009.

Brandon’s future was full of promise and success due in great part to his training as a journeyman electrician and his position as an apprentice instructor with the joint apprenticeship and training committee of Local Union #305 IBEW and the Fort Wayne Division, Central Indiana, Chapter NECA (referred to in short as the Fort Wayne Electrical JATC).

This scholarship may be used towards tuition, books, supplies, or any other school related expense in relation to the awarded individuals educational needs.

This scholarship is available to an individual from Whitley County, who is continuing their education in a trade and vocational school, such as but not limited to electrical, plumbing, mechanical, beauty, and culinary arts school.

The Altrusa Club of Dayton Ruth Richardson Scholarship honors Ruth Richardson, a dedicated educator who championed higher education for her students despite financial challenges. Established through her efforts in the 1980s, this scholarship supports Montgomery County high school seniors with a minimum 3.5 GPA and financial need, ensuring that deserving students can pursue their college dreams. The scholarship reflects Ruth's legacy of leadership and community service, empowering future generations to achieve their educational goals.

The Rona Jaffe Foundation Fellowship supports emerging women writers with a fully funded 7-month residency at the Fine Arts Work Center. Established by the Rona Jaffe Foundation, it includes a $2,500 prize to assist with travel and living expenses. Eligible candidates must be U.S. residents, at least 18 years old, and not enrolled in a degree program during the fellowship year. This prestigious fellowship aims to nurture exceptional literary talent.

The Gerber Foundation provides research grants focused on enhancing the health and nutrition of infants and young children, particularly those aged 0-3. The foundation seeks innovative projects that address critical health issues and improve developmental outcomes. Grants support applied research, diagnostic tools, and treatment regimens that promise significant advancements in pediatric health. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations, emphasizing a commitment to projects with a direct impact on children's well-being in the U.S.

The Fund for Unitarian Universalism Grant, managed by the Unitarian Universalist Association, supports innovative projects that enhance UU community life across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. This grant prioritizes programs with broad denominational impact and encourages diverse funding sources. It aims to nurture Unitarian Universalist principles while fostering a spirit of generosity among applicants. However, it excludes funding for projects limited to individual organizations or ongoing UU activities.

The CSA Scholars’ Roundtable Honor recognizes individuals who exemplify excellence in costume scholarship. Since its establishment in 1997, it fosters dynamic discussions on pertinent costume scholarship issues during the CSA National Symposium. Nominees are evaluated based on their innovative experiences, insights into scholarly topics, and ability to collaborate effectively. This initiative not only celebrates scholarship but also encourages interdisciplinary dialogue and engagement among scholars in the field.

The Reilly, Lucile V, Scholarship, presented by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers $500 to deserving students who demonstrate leadership, service, and academic involvement. Established in 1987, the Foundation supports Beatrice High School seniors with over $55,000 in scholarships annually. This award is available for undergraduate studies, ensuring that students in need can access higher education funding over a five-year period if necessary.

Jerry Walker Memorial Scholarship

The Jerry Walker Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in Jerry’s honor, to partner with Whitley County young people whom Jerry cared deeply about. Jerry served on The Center’s Board of Directors for more than 6 years, and was a passionate volunteer, donor, and advocate for helping young people find hope and equipping them to thrive in life.

This scholarship is available to any person that has have been an active After-School SERVE participant for 2 or more semesters and will be attending any post-secondary schooling.

This Scholarship is due March 1st of each year.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity – Saginaw Alumni Scholarship

Kappa Alpha Psi, an international college fraternity, was founded in 1911 and has more than 600 functioning undergraduate and alumni chapters. The motto of the fraternity is “achievement in every field of human endeavor.” Fashioning achievement as its purpose, Kappa Alpha Psi continues to unite college men of patriotism and honor in a bond of fraternity.

The Kappa Instructional Leadership League is a male youth group consisting of area high school students. The youth group is sponsored by the Saginaw Alumni Chapter in accordance with the fraternity’s National Guide Right Program.

The Saginaw Alumni Chapter has established a scholarship program in recognition and memory of the following men who were devoted and dedicated members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity: Lee Arthur, Sr., John Gibson Jr., Dr. Vernal Cambridge and George Carter, Sr.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Virginia and Richard Matz Scholarship

Sidney High School past graduates who are pursuing an Associate’s Degree or Bachelor’s Degree. 

Selection based upon:

• Financial need, demonstrated community and school service, recommendations, and academic ability.

Awards

• Two $4,500 scholarships.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Jerrold E. Potts Scholarship

Jerrold E. Potts was born and raised in Saginaw, living here until his death in 1997. An electrician by trade, he served in the U.S. Army and Army Reserves. Jerry was a longtime member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local #557. He was also a member of the Saginaw Lodge #77, F&AM, where he twice served as Worshipful Master.

Jerry was a caring, compassionate person who supported many causes, often anonymously. When establishing the Jerrold E. Potts Scholarship, Jerry indicated that the primary scholarship beneficiaries should be the children and grandchildren of IBEW 557 members because “I started there.” He also wanted the scholarship to “make the difference between going to school and not going to school.”

The Aloha Prince Hall Hawaii Foundation Fund offers scholarships to graduating high school seniors from Hawaii who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7. The fund prioritizes students enrolling full-time in accredited four-year institutions and considers community service and extracurricular activities. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This initiative supports the educational aspirations of Hawaii's youth, fostering academic achievement in post-secondary education.

The 1687 Foundation Book Ministry was established in response to the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, aiming to provide Christian literature to those in need, including first responders and at-risk populations. This initiative supports various 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations dedicated to disaster relief, healthcare, and homelessness. By focusing on established ministries, the Foundation ensures that resources effectively reach those who need them most, fostering hope and healing through the power of literature.

The Laurel High School Alumni Association offers the Helen Kirk Deputy Ellis Scholarship for graduating seniors pursuing higher education. The Delaware Community Foundation, which awarded $850,000 in scholarships for the 2024-2025 school year, supports this initiative. Eligible students must have a minimum GPA of 2.50 and do not need to be alumni members. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for local students, fostering community growth and equity.

The Make Your Mark Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, has awarded over $11.9 million since 1983, supporting female and non-binary students in Northeast Connecticut. With awards ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, this scholarship encourages young individuals to pursue their educational goals and seize opportunities for success. Applications are due by August 1, ensuring timely support for students embarking on their academic journeys.

The Latin Network for the Visual Arts Scholarship, established by Mimi and Gaston Daumy, supports New London County students pursuing degrees in fine arts. With an award amount of approximately $1,600, scholarships are paid directly to colleges by August 1. Preference is given to students with ancestral ties to Romance language countries, including French, Italian, Portuguese, Romanian, and Spanish. This initiative has been part of the Community Foundation's commitment to educational support since 1983.

Grays Harbor Community Foundation

Established in 1994, Grays Harbor Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that is known in our community for giving grants to other nonprofits in Grays Harbor County and for scholarships for Grays Harbor youth, but that is not our business.

Our real business is helping people, families, groups, and businesses be philanthropic or charitable. We provide the administrative and investment management services that make it easy for donors to be involved at whatever level they wish, and to accomplish their charitable goals with their tax deductible donations that improve the quality of life in Grays Harbor.

Scholarships

The Grays Harbor Community Foundation awards scholarships to local students for education after high school. The emphasis is on undergraduate studies at any two or four year college or university and vocational/technical programs leading to a license or certification.

Students submit only one application. When selected, the recipient is matched to the criteria of an individual scholarship by the scholarship review committee.

L. George Pauze Scholarship

The L. George Pauze Scholarship is new to the Community Foundation, but has been in existence since the 1970s. In January of 1970, Pauze announced the L. George Pauze Scholarship for a graduate of Hoquiam High School he had established with the help of his friends and attorneys, Omar Parker and George G. Wandel. Mr. Pauze came from Montreal to Grays Harbor in 1907. After years of hard work and ingenuity, he was able to maneuver himself into the ownership of a thriving lumber mill. George said: “You know, I didn’t have a chance to go to college, and I always missed it…I might have done even better if I’d had the opportunity to go. Actually, education is much more important now than in my day.” The law firm of Parker, Johnson, Parker (now Parker, Winkelman) has administered the Trust established that day, awarding at least one scholarship each year. The Gray Harbor Community Foundation is proud to now administer the scholarship to continue this tradition in perpetuity, and honor this “true gentleman.”

The John H. Emery Rail Heritage Trust Grant aims to preserve the intercity rail passenger experience from 1920 to 1960. This private foundation supports projects that restore historic rail equipment and enhance passenger service. With an emphasis on operational railroads, the Trust encourages inclusive practices and the involvement of young people in rail heritage. Grant requests can reach up to $50,000, fostering opportunities for multiple annual awards to eligible organizations dedicated to rail heritage.

The John T. Savage Memorial Scholarship, established in memory of a dedicated agriculturalist and public servant, supports students from Brooklyn, Eastford, Pomfret, Union, and Woodstock. With an award of $1,500, this scholarship aims to assist those pursuing education in politics or agriculture. Since 1983, the Community Foundation has provided over $11.9 million in scholarships, reinforcing its commitment to local education and community development.

Community Foundation of East Mississippi

With over 40 years of dedicated service, the Community Foundation of East Mississippi (CFEM) is committed to fostering charitable giving that connects generous individuals, families, and businesses to meaningful causes.

Mission: A catalyst for charitable giving where civic-minded individuals, families, and businesses achieve philanthropic goals. We bridge resources and needs to enhance the dynamic communities we serve.

Otis Dreams of Books Scholarship

This scholarship was established to honor the memory of Otis Douglas, who had a lifelong love of reading and learning. Many nights, Otis would fall asleep reading his daughter’s schoolbooks. He was unable to finish his own high school education, and this gave him the deepest appreciation for learning. Our hope for this scholarship is to honor his legacy by fostering a love of learning and reading in students pursuing their college education. 

The John Ostrom Enders II Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, awards $4,000 to graduating seniors from East Lyme, New London, or Waterford High School. This scholarship supports students with a strong commitment to the creative arts and community service. Since 1983, the Foundation has distributed over $11.9 million in scholarships, helping students pursue higher education and rewarding careers.

The John F. O'Brien, Jr. Scholarship, established in memory of a World War II veteran, supports students from Southeastern Connecticut pursuing a healthcare degree and facing financial need. Since its inception in 1983, the Community Foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to help students achieve their educational goals. With an approximate award of $500, this scholarship ensures that deserving students can access the necessary resources for their college education.

The Hendel Family Association Scholarship, established in 1983, offers a $2,500 award to New London High School students who have faced significant hardships. This scholarship aims to support students in their educational pursuits, with funds disbursed directly to colleges by August 1. The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut proudly administers this scholarship, contributing to its mission of enabling local students to achieve their academic goals.

Roy and Linda Funk Scholarship

The Roy and Linda Funk Scholarship Fund was established to assist students in pursuing additional schooling. This scholarship is available to students from the I-70 corridor on the Eastern Plains of Colorado. Students may only receive this award once; past recipients may not reapply.

Scholarship amount:

• $2,500

Number of awards:

• 2

Scholarship awards are one-time awards. The amount awarded to a selected recipient may be used for the cost of attendance. All scholarships will be paid directly to the recipient’s school and must be used for the upcoming academic year. Award disbursement is contingent upon the outside scholarship policies of a recipient’s college or university.

Eastern Colorado Scholarship

The Eastern Colorado Scholarship is designed to support post-secondary pursuits of students throughout the region and is funded through contributions from many community members and legacy gifts. 

The Eastern Colorado Scholarship is available to students attending school in Eastern Colorado (Logan County, Morgan County, Phillips County, Washington County, Sedgwick County, and Yuma County). The scholarship is open to students pursuing any kind of secondary education including four-year degrees, two-year degrees, trade schools, etc. 

Scholarship amount:

• $3,000

Number of awards:

• 4

Scholarship awards are one-time awards. The amount awarded to a selected recipient may be used for the cost of attendance. All scholarships will be paid directly to the recipient’s school and must be used for the upcoming academic year. Award disbursement is contingent upon the outside scholarship policies of a recipient’s college or university.

Michigan Sugar Company

Since our founding, more than a century ago, when six independent sugarbeet companies merged, Michigan Sugar Company has perfected the process of turning one of the region’s largest cash crops—the sugarbeet—into pure, all-natural sugar.

Today, Michigan Sugar Company is the third largest beet sugar processor in the United States, producing an annual average of about 1.3 billion pounds of sugar.

Michigan Sugar Company is proud to offer several scholarships to students in our sugarbeet growing areas. 

Michigan Sugar Festival Queen Scholarship

The Michigan Sugar Festival Queen Program, managed by the Sebewaing Chamber of Commerce and Festival Committee and sponsored in part by Michigan Sugar Company, celebrates and promotes the sugarbeet industry. This scholarship is designed for candidates with strong ties to Michigan sugarbeet farming, reflecting the importance of industry connection and representation.

All contestants will attend the Opening Ceremony of the Michigan Sugar Festival.

Contest winners will be required to attend a certain number of parades, events, and social commitments requested by Michigan Sugar Festival Committee. In addition, the following year’s Michigan Sugar Queen Interview Day, Michigan Sugar Queen Crowning Event, the Michigan Sugar Festival Grand Parade as the past year’s queen and court, along with parades in Bay, Huron, Sanilac, and Tuscola Counties.

Recommendations in support of applications could be from teachers, counselors, pastor, employer, or other respected business officials.

The Apolonia Stanulis Scholarship, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports college students residing in NCCF's 20-town service area. With awards ranging from $300 to $1,500, this scholarship aims to empower students in their educational pursuits. NCCF is dedicated to fostering community development and connecting donors with local nonprofits, ensuring that the causes important to the community are championed effectively.