Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Washington

The Leonidas Berry Health Equity Research Award, presented by the ACG Institute, honors Dr. Leonidas H. Berry and supports innovative research aimed at reducing health disparities among underrepresented groups in gastrointestinal health. With a funding opportunity of $75,000 over two years, this award encourages eligible U.S. or Canadian physicians to develop impactful research careers that enhance our understanding of health equity in gastrointestinal practice. Applications are open until June 30, 2028.

The Established Investigator Bridge Funding Award, supported by the ACG Institute for Clinical Research and Education and the American College of Gastroenterology, offers $300,000 in funding over two years for established researchers facing funding gaps. Designed for clinical gastroenterology and hepatology, this grant aims to sustain impactful research programs during federal funding lapses. Eligible applicants must be ACG members and have at least eight years of experience post-training, along with a proven track record of federal funding in relevant fields.

The Shared Decision Making in Hemophilia Patient Care grant program, funded by Pfizer, aims to enhance patient outcomes through Quality Improvement projects that integrate shared decision-making tools into hemophilia care. This initiative encourages multidisciplinary collaboration to address healthcare disparities and empower patients in their disease management. Eligible organizations include healthcare institutions and professional schools, fostering innovative approaches to improve care for individuals living with hemophilia.

The Junior Faculty Development Award, funded by the American College of Gastroenterology, offers $450,000 over three years to support junior researchers in gastroenterology or hepatology. Aimed at ACG members, this award allows recipients to dedicate 50% of their time to clinical research, enhancing their skills and advancing their careers. Eligible candidates include those within seven years post-fellowship who can guarantee protected research time. The initiative fosters novel research that directly impacts gastrointestinal health.

This funding opportunity supports exceptionally promising Early Stage Investigators in genomics, encouraging innovative research across various fields such as genomic sciences and medicine. Applicants must submit their proposals by 5:00 PM local time of their organization. The initiative, led by the US Dept. of Health & Human Services through the NIH, aims to foster long-term career development in genomic research while addressing its ethical, legal, and social implications.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Helen Montgomery Musician Fund

The purpose of this fund is to support local minority artists that need assistance in order to pursue musical endeavors/expand their talent through programs associated with schools, church and nonprofit entities with a focus on music.

The AAFP Foundation's Center for the History of Family Medicine Oral History Grant offers up to $3,000 annually for oral history interviews in family medicine. Aimed at researchers, physicians, and students, it encourages the documentation of family medicine's history in the U.S. The grant supports travel and research expenses to enhance the oral history collection, ensuring a diverse representation of experiences and perspectives in the field.

The Gerald M. Friedman Fund Grant, established in 2002, honors the contributions of Gerald M. Friedman to sedimentary geology. It supports graduate students in their research and travel for professional development. Eligible candidates must be in good academic standing and have completed at least one semester of graduate study. This fund, initiated by Friedman's former students, reflects his legacy in academia and the field of sedimentary geology.

The AMVETS Veteran, Active Duty & Guard/Reserve Scholarship provides financial assistance up to $12,000 for qualified U.S. Veterans and active military members pursuing undergraduate degrees. This scholarship is designed to bridge the financial gap after all other federal and state aid has been utilized. Eligibility includes being an honorably discharged veteran or active service member, enrolled in an accredited institution, and demonstrating financial need. AMVETS is dedicated to serving those who have served our country.

The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLP) is a competitive grant initiative by the National Park Service, aimed at enhancing parks and recreational opportunities in urban, underserved communities. This program supports the acquisition, development, and renovation of outdoor recreation areas through federal funding, addressing the needs of community organizations, local governments, and recognized tribes. Applications are accepted twice a year, before June 1 and November 1.

Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation Scholarships

The Foundation Scholarships are merit-based and awarded to qualified students with a consideration of financial need. All recipients shall be in pursuit of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university and as described by the respective scholarship criteria. Most scholarships are for one year, non-renewable unless otherwise indicated in the award description. 

The AMVETS Spouse Scholarship offers financial support to the spouses of honorably discharged veterans and active military personnel, including National Guard and Reserves. This scholarship aims to bridge financial gaps after other federal and state resources have been exhausted. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens enrolled in accredited undergraduate programs, demonstrate financial need, and not be in default on federal student loans. AMVETS stands committed to empowering military families through education.

The AMVETS Children/Grandchildren Scholarship supports the educational aspirations of children and grandchildren of honorably discharged U.S. veterans and active military. This scholarship aims to bridge financial gaps after all federal and state assistance has been utilized. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, high school seniors, and demonstrate financial need while enrolled in accredited four-year universities. Incomplete applications will be disqualified, ensuring that the award goes to deserving candidates committed to their education.

The NHGRI's Analysis, Visualization, and Informatics Lab-space (AnVIL) program is set for a limited competition renewal to enhance a cloud-based platform that supports genomic research. With over 5 petabytes of data accessible to researchers, AnVIL fosters collaboration and innovation while adhering to FAIR principles. The renewed focus will include improved scalability, interoperability, and robust security measures. Additionally, training initiatives will ensure researchers maximize the potential of AnVIL's multimodal datasets. The funding opportunity is expected in 2027.

The First Book Grant for Scholars of Color (FBG) offers up to $55,000 to support early-career, pre-tenured scholars of color in completing significant research projects related to Christian faith and life, religious trends, and social issues. This grant aims to facilitate the publication of their first book, enhancing the connection between academic scholarship and the church in North America, while prioritizing projects that are already underway.

The Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composer Awards, supported by The ASCAP Foundation, encourages emerging jazz composers aged 13-30. This annual award offers a platform for creativity and innovation in jazz music. Eligible applicants must submit original works, including a score and recording, by the deadline. Previous winners may apply if their submission is a new piece. The foundation focuses on nurturing talent and enhancing arts education, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape.

ASEEES Internship Grant Program

Funded by an external grant, ASEEES’s Internship Grant Program provides incoming, current, and recent (i.e. those who have graduated no more than two years prior to the competition deadline) MA, PhD, and professional school students with grants that make it possible for them to accept unpaid or underpaid internships in areas broadly related to Russia, including Russia’s relations with other regions/countries.

The grant offers $2,000 a month, to be paid directly to the grantee (intern) during their internship. In the case of underpaid internships, ASEEES will work with the host institutions and the grantees to make sure the grantee receives a combined stipend of $2,000 per month or has an extended duration for the internship.

LaFrancine Stallings Math & Science College Scholars

The LaFrancine Stallings Math & Science College Scholarship will provide renewable need-based scholarships of up to $6,375 to undergraduate juniors enrolled full-time pursuing a Science Technology Engineering Mathematics (STEM) major at any four-year accredited HBCU in the 2026-2027 school year.

The Bernie Smillie Memorial Scholarship was established in 2010, in memory of Freeland resident and business owner Bernie Smillie. Bernie passed away in 2000, due to complications from a lung transplant he had received in 1994. In 2005, family and friends of Bernie established the Bernie Smillie Memorial Golf Outing. Proceeds of this outing has helped to promote organ donor support and awareness and establish this scholarship fund.

Bernie Smillie Memorial Scholarship - Medical

Evaluation Criteria

• Leadership ability
• Financial need
• Academic performance
• Standardized test scores
• Special skills
• Awards and honors
• Community service
• Work experience
• Extracurricular school activities
• Overall involvement
• Career goals as demonstrated in essay
• Letter of recommendation.

The AFS Travel Grant, offered by the Austin Film Society, supports Texas-based filmmakers by covering travel costs to competitive film festivals worldwide. Since its inception, the grant has provided crucial financial assistance, enabling filmmakers to gain exposure and foster industry connections. Eligible applicants can receive up to $1,500 for travel, helping them navigate the financial challenges of festival participation. This initiative strengthens the local creative community and promotes diverse storytelling in the film industry.

The Soros Justice Fellowships support innovative individuals dedicated to reforming the U.S. criminal justice system. These fellowships, available in two tracks, offer funding for 12 or 18 months to projects that inspire dialogue, influence policy, and drive change. Track I is aimed at emerging leaders, while Track II is for seasoned professionals. With grants of $100,000 and $140,000 respectively, the program emphasizes collaboration and aims to foster a network of leaders committed to addressing injustice and inequality.

The MFA Fellowship, funded by the Dedalus Foundation, provides a $15,000 stipend to final-year students graduating from MFA programs in Painting and Sculpture in the U.S. Annually, four fellowships are awarded based on nominations from department chairpersons, allowing institutions to nominate two candidates each. Nominees must graduate in the following spring semester and submit application materials including work samples and a biographical statement. This initiative supports emerging artists in their professional development.

Battle Creek Community Foundation

Our Mission: The Battle Creek Community Foundation connects people, ideas, and resources to expand opportunity and create lasting community benefit for today and tomorrow.

Scholarships

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Chadalavada Family Scholarship Fund

The Chadalavada Family Scholarship, established in memory of Vinod Anand Chadalavada (Lakeview HS 2001, U of M 2005 Grad), supports high school seniors and adults from the Lakeview School District who are passionate about healthcare or business. Preference will be given to those pursuing their studies at the university of Michigan. This scholarship seeks individuals who demonstrate exceptional values, strong character, and a commitment to serving others through generous contributions of their time and resources. By investing in these dedicated individuals, the Chadalavada Family aims to continue Vinod's legacy of excellence and community service.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Kaleigh Woodman Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Kaleigh Woodman Memorial Fund was established in memory of Kaleigh Woodman who died as a result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident in December 2015. Kaleigh lit up a room with her beautiful smile and contagious laugh. She was a Tomboy Princess, a tough – never get hurt, I can do it outlook and a tender helpful, always willing to help no matter what the project attitude. Her Pennfield Schools and extended cheer families were a very important part of her life.  This Kaleigh Woodman Memorial Fund was established for the purpose of providing scholarships to greater Battle Creek area High School graduating seniors or graduates pursuing a post-secondary degree, certificate or technical training.

Tiderington Family Scholarship

The Tiderington Family Scholarship was established in 1996 by Dr. Robert H. and Charlotte Hughes Tiderington and their three sons, Robert III, James and Thomas, to provide funding for students pursuing a vocational career. Neither Dr. Tiderington nor his wife Charlotte graduated from college. Dr. Tiderington remarked: “It was important to us that our boys went to college. We always stressed education. When you give a gift of education, you give a gift for life.”

Saginaw Country Club Golf Scholarship

The Saginaw Country Club has been one of the premier private clubs in Michigan for over 116 years. In honor of its centennial year in 1998, the Club’s Board of Governors established the Saginaw Country Club Golf Scholarship.

The scholarship is offered to promote and reward golf playing among Saginaw County’s youth.

Battle Creek Community Foundation

Our Mission: The Battle Creek Community Foundation connects people, ideas, and resources to expand opportunity and create lasting community benefit for today and tomorrow.

Scholarships

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

BCPS Life Enhancement Scholarship Fund

The purpose of this fund is to provide support to students who are seeking to enhance their lives - either after high school or later in adulthood whether or not they have a traditional high school diploma or a G.E.D. from Battle Creek Public Schools. The donor stated, "You may be a parent or grandparent who has chosen to place your children in BCPS, a graduating senior, a graduate or even someone who dropped out of BCPS, whatever the scenario, you choose to stick with BCPS and stay associated with the district in some way instead of transferring to another district, that speaks volumes to me. This is the primary reason I established the BCPS Life Enhancement Education Fund, I want to support those who support the district and this fund helps me do that."