Best Grants for Capital Funding in Washington

The NIOSH Centers of Excellence for Total Worker Health® (U19) aims to enhance worker well-being by funding research and translation activities that address harmful exposures and improve working conditions. Priority areas include high-risk occupations, young workers, and chronic diseases. The initiative emphasizes strong project coordination, scientific rigor, and economic evaluations. Projects must utilize the NIOSH Worker Well-Being Questionnaire and share findings with the HERO Clearinghouse, fostering innovative solutions for employers and workers.

The Mission Boost Grants (MBG) by the American Cancer Society aim to enhance cancer research by funding projects that translate into human testing. These grants support investigators at all levels, offering resources for innovative clinical projects. The program consists of two funding stages: Stage I focuses on developing clear milestones for new treatments, while Stage II supports patient testing, ultimately contributing to advancements in cancer care and treatment.

The Make a SPLASH! Grant Contest invites municipal entities and non-profits in the U.S. to apply for the Inclusive Design Award. This award recognizes splash pads that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility. Winners will receive a customized Life Floor safety surface, valued at $50-65k, promoting community engagement and safety. With two opportunities to win, this initiative aims to enhance splash pad designs, ensuring they cater to all individuals. Join us in making splash pads safer and more accessible for everyone!

The purpose of America’s Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) is to improve access to healthy food in underserved areas, to support food supply chain resiliency, to create and preserve quality jobs, and torevitalize low-income communities by providing financial and technical assistance, either directly orthrough other partners and intermediaries, to eligible fresh, healthy food retailers and enterprises toovercome the higher costs and initial barriers to entry in underserved areas. HFFI offers fundingopportunities and technical assistance to eligible applicants.

The Coors Light Líderes Grant Program honors exceptional Latino leaders across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, awarding five individuals with a $10,000 grant each for their nonprofit organizations. This initiative, active for 17 years, aims to empower emerging leaders who demonstrate significant community impact through innovative programs. Eligible nominees must be between 21-39 years old, associated with a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and committed to fostering positive change in their communities.

The Middle School Music Grant, offered by the Peter R Marsh Foundation, aims to enrich the musical education of public middle school music teachers across the U.S. By facilitating performances at senior facilities, the grant fosters emotional connections between students and seniors, while providing essential classroom equipment. Funds cover music supplies, instruments, and transportation, ensuring students have the resources to thrive musically and socially. This initiative not only enhances music education but also promotes community engagement and empathy.

Stark Community Foundation

Since 1963, Stark Community Foundation has been helping individuals, families, businesses and nonprofits like you support the causes you care about.

In addition to personalized donor services, we manage a competitive grantmaking program and award grants to address local needs. Today, the Foundation stewards over 1,000 charitable funds totaling $485 million in assets and has granted more than $300 million to nonprofits in our community and beyond.

Scholarships

Stark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.

The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties.

The Louise Nader Khourey Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Louise Nader Khourey Memorial Scholarship Fund assists graduating high school seniors planning careers in foreign language education OR senior-level undergraduate or graduate foreign language students who have met the criteria for student teaching in a licensure program. 

This scholarship is renewable.

The TFish Fund Grant aims to alleviate poverty in East Asia by empowering small but impactful NGOs to achieve sustainability and transparency. Founded in 2011, the Transparent Fish Fund partners with select organizations that focus on poverty alleviation. By providing financial aid, capacity building, and promoting accountability, the fund bridges the gap between Western donors and local NGOs, fostering a philanthropic spirit while addressing the complex social issues faced in the region.

The James & Ursula Williams Teacher Grants Program : Field Trip Grants

As a born native of Vallejo, James was generationally admired for his enduring work ethic and was lovingly embraced for his dedication and support to family, friends, and community. Ursula’s self-motivation, persistence, and quest for excellence brought her professional recognition. As a community activist, she shared her leadership organizational skills as a member of community and political organizations who made positive contributions to the community.

In life, they created and took advantage of all opportunities presented to them. Both recognized the important role that education made in creating healthy, happy, and productive lives for themselves, their children, and their grandchildren. The Williams Family hopes to continue their legacy through The James & Ursula Williams Family Fund.

Field Trip Grants:

Grants of up to $1,000 are available to fund 1-day excursions; field trips should have an academic component that supplements your classroom curriculum. Funds can cover the cost of transportation, and admission fees. Examples: Vallejo Flood and Water District, the Exploratorium, etc. The purpose of this program is to bring learning outside of the classroom and provide hands-on experiences to students.

The SCI Research on the Translational Spectrum (SCIRTS) portfolio aims to promote innovative research that enhances function and alleviates complications following spinal cord injuries. It encourages studies that involve individuals with SCI, emphasizing translational significance in research designs. SCIRTS grants support diverse research areas, including mechanistic, preclinical, and clinical studies, to develop effective interventions. Funding categories include Postdoctoral Fellowships, Pilot Research Grants, and Senior Research Grants, targeting early-career and senior investigators to advance spinal cord injury research.

The Fiscal Year 2027 Defense University Research Instrumentation Program (DURIP) by the Department of Defense aims to enhance research capabilities at U.S. higher education institutions. It provides funding for the acquisition of essential research equipment to support education in fields critical to national defense. This initiative specifically excludes for-profit organizations, ensuring that the resources are directed towards accredited educational institutions committed to advancing scientific knowledge and engineering expertise.

The Fiscal Year 2027 Department of War Defense University Research Instrumentation Program (DURIP) aims to enhance the capabilities of U.S. higher education institutions by providing funding for essential research equipment. This initiative supports the education of scientists and engineers in fields critical to national defense. However, for-profit organizations are not eligible for participation, ensuring that funds are directed towards accredited educational institutions.

The FY 2027 DURIP program invites universities to submit proposals for purchasing essential research equipment and instrumentation that aligns with the Department of War's research priorities. This initiative aims to enhance educational experiences through research in fields crucial to national defense, supported by agencies such as the Army Research Office, Office of Naval Research, and Air Force Office of Scientific Research. Proposals should demonstrate the potential impact on student education and research capabilities.

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Community’s Memorial Scholarship

Memorial scholarships are one of the top categories of funds created at Marion Community Foundation, but not all donors who wish to memorialize a loved one in this distinctive and perpetual way start their own fund. The Community’s Memorial Scholarship Fund was created to memorialize a number of individuals collectively. All of the persons memorialized are recognized during Marion Community Foundation’s annual Scholarship Program.

The Mary H. Hollaway Trust provided seed money for this special purpose. Mary was well known in Marion, due to her long career with Fahey Bank. Upon her passing, she had arranged for several funds to be created from her estate, this scholarship among them. Other organizations she chose to support include the Marion Area Humane Society, Marion Palace Theatre, and the Marion Family YMCA.

The Community’s Memorial Scholarship is available to graduates and seniors from any Marion County high school who rank in the upper 50 percent of their class.

The Philanthropic Impact Fund (PIF) by Vanguard Charitable aims to strengthen nonprofit organizations and philanthropic infrastructure. It focuses on integrating AI, educating donors, and enhancing the narrative around the nonprofit sector. Grants typically range from $50,000 to $100,000, with larger requests considered. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) registered nonprofits to apply. This funding is a strategic investment in resilience and sustainability, addressing critical needs in the sector.

The Regenerative Agriculture Foundation Grant supports organizations that promote regenerative practices, emphasizing the value of people, plants, animals, and the planet. With a focus on BIPOC-led initiatives, the foundation encourages systemic change in agricultural systems through collaborative funding. Grants are available to U.S.-based organizations that align with RAF's vision and engage in transformative efforts. The competitive grantmaking process is by invitation only, ensuring targeted support for impactful projects.

The TKoster’s Charitable Innovated Health Care Award, established by Teresa Koster, aims to enhance students' access to quality health care. With a funding amount of $3,500, this award supports innovative practices in student health centers. It addresses critical areas such as understanding health care needs, improving service delivery, and leveraging technology. Eligible applicants include members of the American College Health Association, encouraged to demonstrate partnerships and financial support in their proposals.

Outride's Community Impact Grants aim to enhance access to cycling, empowering individuals, particularly youth and seniors, to experience its social, emotional, and cognitive benefits. The grants support non-profits and schools in creating inclusive cycling programs, emphasizing equity and measurable goals. Although the application window is currently closed, Outride remains committed to promoting diverse cycling communities through strategic funding. For further guidelines, please refer to their FAQs.

The Rauschenberg Dancer Emergency Grants offer one-time financial assistance of up to $3,000 for professional dancers facing urgent financial crises. Applicants must demonstrate a critical need due to circumstances like housing instability, healthcare costs, or food insecurity. Eligible dancers must be 21 or older, reside in the U.S., and have an income below specified thresholds. This program aims to support dancers in overcoming financial hardships exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and other unforeseen challenges.

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

John T. & Lois Schmidt Scholarship

The John T. & Lois Schmidt Scholarship Fund was created in 2017 to support seniors and graduates of Marion County high schools who are also members of the U.S. Armed Forces, veterans, or children or grandchildren of those on active duty or veterans. The Schmidt Fund favors applicants from Elgin High School and those with GPAs of 2.5 or better.

The Schmidt Scholarship honors John and his military service. John served in the U.S. Army during World War II, from January 1943 to January 1946 and was stationed in several overseas and exotic locales, including New Guinea, Netherland East Indies, Morotai, and Mindanao in the Philippine Islands. At the end of his service, he received an honorable discharge as a staff sergeant and had earned the Bronze Star for valor and the Bronze Arrowhead—awarded to those present on D-Day on the beaches of Normandy, France.

Prior to his military career, John graduated from Agosta High School (1941) and shortly after his service, married Lois (Kraner) in 1948. He was employed by Marion Power Shovel, Marion Industries, and retired after 29 years with Whirlpool. He was a member of the Marion County Farm Bureau, Disabled American Veterans, and VFW Post 7201. John passed in 2009 at the age of 86.

The Citizens' Institute on Rural Design (CIRD), a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and the Housing Assistance Council, invites rural communities to apply for design support. CIRD aims to enhance rural life and economic viability through planning and creative placemaking, empowering local citizens to address unique community challenges. Opportunities include Local Design Workshops and a Design Learning Cohort, providing resources, training, and support to foster community-driven solutions.

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Charles E. Orcena Scholarship

The late Charles Orcena was a longtime teacher in the mathematics department of Marion Technical College. This scholarship honors his memory and provides scholarships to seniors or graduates from any Marion County high school to attend Marion Technical College, with special consideration for students who have a learning or physical disability.

The fund was created in 2014 by Charles’ nephew and wife, Jason and Alycia Orcena, and supported by gifts from his family, as well as colleagues at Marion Technical College.

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Catherine Amelia Thew Brown Scholarship

Dorothy Ellen Thew, a lifelong member of the Marion community, left, as part of her legacy, a gift to create three scholarship funds at Marion Community Foundation. Dorothy, a noteworthy person in her own right, designated that three scholarship funds be created from her estate to honor beloved members of her family.

The Catherine Amelia Thew Brown Memorial Scholarship honors Dorothy’s sister’s work at the former Silver Street Elementary School.

Well educated, Dorothy was a 1936 graduate of Marion Harding High School and attended Hunter College, and Indiana, East Carolina, and Toledo universities. She enlisted in the U.S. Navy Waves in 1943 and had a naval career which spanned 30 years. Dorothy worked at the selective service board from 1943-1955 and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Marion Depot until its closing in 1961. She retired from the Columbus Defense Supply Center in 1979.

Her civic involvements mirrored her military career. She was a lifetime member of the American Legion and a Plank-Owner of the Navy Lone Sailor Memorial Association and Fleet Reserve Association, as well as the National Association of Retired Federal Employees, American Association for Retired Persons, the American and Marion County Historical societies, Marion Senior Citizens and Central Christian Church of Marion.

The Center for Scholarship Administration

The Center for Scholarship Administration (CSA) provides corporations, foundations, trust funds, and individual philanthropists scholarship selection and administration management that is experienced, professional, and cost efficient while lending the program an integrity not inherent in internal selection committees.

Dudley West Scholarship

The Dudley West Scholarship is providing scholarships for deserving students. The Center for Scholarship Administration, Inc. (CSA), a non-profit, independent organization is the facilitator of the scholarship fund.

The recipients may attend any accredited public or private, two-year or four-year college, university, trade, technical, vocational, undergraduate, or graduate school, located in the United States, in any field of study leading to a degree, diploma or certificate. Recipients must be enrolled full-time each semester and working towards an undergraduate or graduate degree.

This scholarship is for one year only; however, current recipients may reapply and be considered for additional funding along with other new applicants. Scholarship recipients must be enrolled full-time. Scholarship recipients are limited to four total years of scholarship award and are expected to have been enrolled consecutive years during that time. Students must reapply for additional scholarship awards each year. An award is not guaranteed, and students will be included in the pool of new scholarship applicants.

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Alex Family Scholarship

Created in 2007 from the estate of Helen L. Alex, this fund makes annual awards in support of higher education for seniors from Marion Harding High School. The fund honors Helen’s son, Nicholas, a former faculty member at Harding who passed in 2008.

The Alex Family Fund was established by another of Helen’s sons and Nicholas’ brother, James L. Alex. The family, which includes a rich Greek heritage and numerous relatives in Greece, belonged to the Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Mansfield, Ohio. 

Recipients of the Alex Family Scholarship must rank in the upper 25th percentile of their graduating class. Those demonstrating excellence in the study of history or pursing a college major in history are given special consideration.

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Alex Masters Memorial Scholarship

Following the unexpected passing of their son, Alex Masters, a memorial scholarship fund was created at the River Valley Education Foundation by Randy and Kathy Masters and Morgan Masters Quickel, Alex’s sister. In 2013, the fund was migrated to Marion Community Foundation and became the Alex Masters Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Alex never knew a stranger and loved to discuss and debate any subject with others. He loved baseball and football, was an avid reader, and was pursuing a career in medicine. But, perhaps his biggest love—outside of his family—was his love for music. It is his family’s hope that his song will live on through this scholarship.

The fund honors Alex’s memory and supports the educational goals of graduating seniors from River Valley High School. According to Kathy, the family created the scholarship with the intention of supporting those who have encountered adversity and to overcome and cope with life’s challenges through education.

Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County. We use distributions from the more than 500 charitable funds — created by generous, local donors — to award more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships each year to many of the humanitarian, educational and cultural organizations in this remarkable community we call home.

Marion Community Foundation is the area’s leading philanthropic organization, providing charitable donors the opportunity to easily create endowment funds to benefit and support our community through grants and scholarships. We serve communities throughout Marion County through philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement.

Allen “Bus” Augenstein Memorial Scholarship

Originally the Claridon Alumni Association Scholarship Fund, this endowment (created in 2021), was renamed in 2023 to honor the late Allen ‘Bus’ Augenstein. The scholarship supports seniors and graduates of River Valley High School, with special consideration for students who pursue an education in the fields of engineering, health care, or education (especially science education). Awards also favor students active in band, choir, FFA, or school sports, especially golf and cross country.

Allen lived in Marion for more than 90 years. His father, A.B. Augenstein, served as Superintendent of Claridon Schools and River Valley School District, 1960–1965, and is well remembered for, among other accomplishments, starting football (6 man) in the district. His mother, Hazel, taught mathematics at Claridon during World War II.