Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Washington

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Follow Your Dreams Scholarship

The Follow Your Dreams Scholarship, established in 2025, supports students from Cashmere High School who are pursuing post-secondary education through a trade school, apprenticeship, or certificate program. This scholarship is designed to encourage and assist students as they take the next step toward building practical skills, meaningful careers, and a future aligned with their goals.

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Andrew J. Lavagnino Scholarship of Kindness

The Andrew J. Lavagnino Scholarship of Kindness honors Andrew Jonathan Lavagnino, a 2014 graduate of Eastmont High School. Andrew was known for the kindness, compassion, and joy that he brought to those around him. He was passionate about physical fitness, food, sports, music, and movies and loved his family, friends, and pets. This scholarship aims to support students who embody kindness and compassion to all those around them.

Robison Foundation for Jewish Elders

Robison Foundation for Jewish Elders (RFJE) supports community organizations and initiatives by funding programs that enhance the lives of elders in the Jewish community of greater Portland and Southwest Washington by supporting their social, spiritual and physical well-being.

To achieve its mission, RFJE offers funding through four grant track opportunities:

• Nitzan Grants
• Kulanu Grants
• ChikChok Grants
• Kadimah Grants

ChikChok Grants

ChikChok (“fast-track”) grants are designed to support time-sensitive opportunities that benefit elders. These grants are intended to respond to emerging needs or unexpected opportunities, fund short-term programs, events, or pilot activities; and provide quickturnaround support with minimal administrative burden. ChikChok applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with decisions made quarterly.

The Purpose of the ChikChok Grants

ChikChok (“fast-track”) grants are designed to support time-sensitive opportunities that benefit elders. ChikChok applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with decisions made quarterly.

Grant funds will be used to address the following priority needs:

• Respond to emerging needs or unexpected opportunities
• Fund short-term programs, events, or pilot activities
• Provide quick-turnaround support with minimal administrative burden

Robison Foundation for Jewish Elders

Robison Foundation for Jewish Elders (RFJE) supports community organizations and initiatives by funding programs that enhance the lives of elders in the Jewish community of greater Portland and Southwest Washington by supporting their social, spiritual and physical well-being.

To achieve its mission, RFJE offers funding through four grant track opportunities:

• Nitzan Grants
• Kulanu Grants
• ChikChok Grants
• Kadimah Grants

Oregon Jewish Community Foundation ( OJCF) administers and supports RFJE's grantmaking programs. In 2025, OJCF announced and managed the application process for RFJE's ChikChok, Kadimah, Nitzan, and Kulanu grant programs that support Jewish elders in Greater Portland and Southwest Washington. OJCF specifically stated that it is proud to support the administration of these grants.

Kadimah Grants

Kadimah (move forward) grants are designed to support growth, innovation and capacity-building to better serve elders. These grants are intended to launch new programs or expand existing ones, address identified community needs or service gaps; and invest in strategic planning, infrastructure and organizational capacity. There are two Kadimah grant cycles per year.

The Purpose of the Kadimah Grants

Grant awards for this Kadimah cycle will be $20,000-$50,000 per year, with multiyear commitments possible. There will be two grant cycles per year. We strongly encourage organizations to self-evaluate how they can effectively use grant funds-given existing organizational constraints-and ask for funding accordingly.

RFJE will limit funding of a program to no more than 10% of an organization’s overall budget during this grant cycle for their solo grant application.

For collaborative grants, RFJE will fund up to 50% of a program’s overall budget, irrespective of the organizational budget. 

RFJE understands that effective planning is vital to nonprofit success. Thoughtful strategic planning strengthens and sustains vibrant community institutions. To support this work, RFJE will offer Kadimah planning grants—covering up to 100% of costs—to organizations with proven impact on community elders and sound fiscal management. We invite organizations seeking strategic, capacity-building support to expand services for elders to apply for funding.

We believe that overreliance on a single funder can undermine a nonprofit’s long-term stability and encourage you to share how others are supporting your work. RFJE does not guarantee a specific award amount and reserves the right to decline any or all proposals.

We hope Kadimah grants will serve as a catalyst to inspire new projects and activities or expand and enhance existing programs that address the community’s priority needs. 

Grant Size and Timeframe Parameters

RFJE will consider funding proposals for up to three years and encourages applicants seeking multi-year support to request reduced funding amounts in the second and third years (“step-down funding”). For approved multi-year grants, RFJE will commit to funding for the full proposed term, contingent on annual reporting requirements and on agreed-upon criteria and conditions established by RFJE and the applicant to assess the program’s progress.

Robison Foundation for Jewish Elders

Robison Foundation for Jewish Elders (RFJE) supports community organizations and initiatives by funding programs that enhance the lives of elders in the Jewish community of greater Portland and Southwest Washington by supporting their social, spiritual and physical well-being.

To achieve its mission, RFJE offers funding through four grant track opportunities:

• Nitzan Grants
• Kulanu Grants
• ChikChok Grants
• Kadimah Grants

Oregon Jewish Community Foundation ( OJCF) administers and supports RFJE's grantmaking programs. In 2025, OJCF announced and managed the application process for RFJE's ChikChok, Kadimah, Nitzan, and Kulanu grant programs that support Jewish elders in Greater Portland and Southwest Washington. OJCF specifically stated that it is proud to support the administration of these grants.

Kulanu Grants

Kulanu (all of us) grants are designed to support cross-organizational collaboration and create lasting, system-level impact. Kulanu grants support significant program growth, innovation and capacity-building. These grants are intended to fund collaborative, multi-organization initiatives, address systemic challenges and service gaps; and focus on sustainable, communitywide solutions.

The Purpose of the Kulanu Grants

Grant awards for this Kulanu cycle will be $50,000+ per year, with multiyear commitments possible. There will be two grant cycles per year. We strongly encourage organizations to self evaluate how they can effectively use grant funds-given existing organizational constraints-ask for funding accordingly.

Grant Size and Timeframe Parameters

RFJE will consider funding proposals for up to three years and encourages applicants seeking multi-year support to request reduced funding amounts in the second and third years (“step-down funding”). For approved multi-year grants, RFJE will commit to funding for the full proposed term, contingent on annual reporting requirements and on agreed-upon criteria and conditions established by RFJE and the applicant to assess the program’s progress.  

Robison Foundation for Jewish Elders

Robison Foundation for Jewish Elders (RFJE) supports community organizations and initiatives by funding programs that enhance the lives of elders in the Jewish community of greater Portland and Southwest Washington by supporting their social, spiritual and physical well-being.

To achieve its mission, RFJE offers funding through four grant track opportunities:

• Nitzan Grants
• Kulanu Grants
• ChikChok Grants
• Kadimah Grants

Oregon Jewish Community Foundation ( OJCF) administers and supports RFJE's grantmaking programs. In 2025, OJCF announced and managed the application process for RFJE's ChikChok, Kadimah, Nitzan, and Kulanu grant programs that support Jewish elders in Greater Portland and Southwest Washington. OJCF specifically stated that it is proud to support the administration of these grants.

Nitzan Grants

Nitzan (blossom) grants are designed to support early-stage ideas and modest program expansions. These grants are intended to pilot new concepts with room to grow, expand existing programs in a limited but meaningful way; and bridge the gap between small, rapid-response funding and larger investments.

The Purpose of the Nitzan Grants

Grant awards for this Nitzan cycle will be $5,000-$20,000 per year. There will be two grant cycles per year. We strongly encourage organizations to self-evaluate how they can effectively use grant funds-given existing organizational constraints-ask for funding accordingly.

Collaboration with other aligned non-profit organizations in a joint grant application is encouraged. Funds will be awarded to the lead applicant who will also be responsible for measured outcomes reporting. 

Grant Size and Timeframe Parameters

RFJE will consider funding proposals for up to three years and encourages applicants seeking multi-year support to request reduced funding amounts in the second and third years (“step-down funding”). For approved multi-year grants, RFJE will commit to funding for the full proposed term, contingent on annual reporting requirements and on agreed-upon criteria and conditions established by RFJE and the applicant to assess the program’s progress.  

The Joan H. Hensley Scholarship, established by Communities Foundation of Texas, aims to support graduating high school seniors or past graduates from Dallas County. It provides scholarships for those pursuing degrees at accredited trade or vocational schools or community colleges. Eligible candidates are evaluated based on school and community involvement, leadership potential, financial need, and an essay response. This initiative has been fostering educational opportunities since 1953, contributing to the growth of thriving communities.

Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico

Mission: The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico serves as a community resource, connects donors to needs, and supports charitable organizations in their work.

Scholarships

CFSNM offers scholarships that support students from all walks and stages of life in pursuing various avenues of their educational and professional journeys.

Applicants must be pursuing any avenue of higher education and/or professional certifications. This includes undergraduate, post-grad, vocational and more! Applicants must be actively enrolled as a student. Applicants in high school must be a graduating senior.

Alfred P. Corral Endowment Fund

Scholarships for Hispanic students, with a preference for students from Mexico with a preference for students enrolled at DACC

The Hovland Scholarship, offered by the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation, supports college students of Norwegian descent. Eligible applicants must be full-time students entering their third year at an accredited four-year institution in the U.S., maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and demonstrate financial need. Multiple renewable scholarships are available, contingent upon meeting requirements and funding availability. This scholarship aims to enrich the quality of life through education and philanthropy.

Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico

Mission: The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico serves as a community resource, connects donors to needs, and supports charitable organizations in their work.

Scholarships

CFSNM offers scholarships that support students from all walks and stages of life in pursuing various avenues of their educational and professional journeys.

Applicants must be pursuing any avenue of higher education and/or professional certifications. This includes undergraduate, post-grad, vocational and more! Applicants must be actively enrolled as a student. Applicants in high school must be a graduating senior.

Carol Troeller Second Chance Scholarship Fund

To support students with emergency financial needs with a preference for a female student in business fields of study

The ETC Performing Arts Funding Grant, established in 1975, aims to support non-profit performance groups across the United States. With grants up to $5,000, the initiative seeks to encourage artistic expression and innovation. Applicants must be U.S.-based organizations, including 501(c)(3) non-profits and accredited educational institutions. However, funding does not cover salaries, travel, or events. Preference is given to groups producing original work. The competitive nature of the grant means that meeting eligibility does not guarantee funding.

Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico

Mission: The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico serves as a community resource, connects donors to needs, and supports charitable organizations in their work.

Scholarships

CFSNM offers scholarships that support students from all walks and stages of life in pursuing various avenues of their educational and professional journeys.

Applicants must be pursuing any avenue of higher education and/or professional certifications. This includes undergraduate, post-grad, vocational and more! Applicants must be actively enrolled as a student. Applicants in high school must be a graduating senior.

CFSNM Student Success Scholarship

To award outstanding academic students from Doña Ana County in Southern New Mexico

The Lingnan W.T. Chan Fellowship Program provides transformative educational experiences for Chinese students in the U.S. through service learning and intercultural exchange. Inspired by Professor Wing-Tsit Chan, this program emphasizes a commitment to service, personal growth, and leadership development. Fellows engage with non-profit organizations, gaining practical experience while living with American families and participating in seminars and reflection meetings, fostering intercultural understanding and professional skills.

The Limited Competition: Biomedical Research Environment & Sponsored Programs Administration Development (BRE-SPAD) Program aims to enhance the research capacity of resource-limited institutions. By focusing on essential areas like biomedical research environment and sponsored programs administration, this initiative seeks to foster rigorous and reproducible biomedical research. Eligible organizations are encouraged to submit proposals addressing their specific needs, thereby expanding the pool of qualified researchers and strengthening the settings for NIH-funded research.

Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico

Mission: The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico serves as a community resource, connects donors to needs, and supports charitable organizations in their work.

Scholarships

CFSNM offers scholarships that support students from all walks and stages of life in pursuing various avenues of their educational and professional journeys.

Applicants must be pursuing any avenue of higher education and/or professional certifications. This includes undergraduate, post-grad, vocational and more! Applicants must be actively enrolled as a student. Applicants in high school must be a graduating senior.

Clarence H. Fielder Memorial Scholarship

To support African American students from historically underrepresented backgrounds.

Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico

Mission: The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico serves as a community resource, connects donors to needs, and supports charitable organizations in their work.

Scholarships

CFSNM offers scholarships that support students from all walks and stages of life in pursuing various avenues of their educational and professional journeys.

Applicants must be pursuing any avenue of higher education and/or professional certifications. This includes undergraduate, post-grad, vocational and more! Applicants must be actively enrolled as a student. Applicants in high school must be a graduating senior.

Dr. Robert Palmer Scholarship Fund

To make awards for one or more students from Luna county.

The Woody and Gayle Hunt - Aspen Institute Fellowship aims to empower exceptional leaders from the Borderplex Region by providing financial support for participation in leadership development programs. This initiative focuses on expanding Latino prosperity and fostering economic connections between the U.S., Latin America, and Spain. Fellows gain vital skills and networks through public events and seminars, positioning them to make significant contributions to their communities and advance the common good.

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley 

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their philanthropic goals through the establishment of charitable funds that support the needs of Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster counties. With over $100 million in assets, CFHV manages nearly 600 charitable funds and has distributed more than $777 million in grants and scholarships since January 2000. We lead initiatives to address urgent community needs such as food insecurity and educational challenges, offering both immediate relief and long-term support.

Maria E. McCarthy Ringwood Memorial Scholarship

Established by the family of Maria McCarthy Ringwood to honor her memory and love of theater, this scholarship is available to Roy C. Ketcham High School and Our Lady of Lourdes High School college-bound graduating seniors who have actively participated in theater in school.

Type of Award

One-time scholarship payable to school

Current High School

Our Lady of Lourdes High School, Roy C. Ketcham High School

The Illuminations Grant for Black Trans Women Visual Artists, a $10,000 annual grant, supports early-career Black trans women artists in the U.S. whose contributions to visual arts are often overlooked. Established in partnership with notable figures, this grant not only provides funding but also offers professional development resources. In its fifth year, it aims to address systemic barriers and enhance representation in the arts, with additional awards for finalists to further their artistic journeys.

Friedman Family Scholarship

The Friedman Family Scholarship was established in 1998. The award is available to graduating seniors in Taos and western Colfax counties for students pursuing advancement of higher education. The scholarship is available to those applying to 4 year colleges and universities as well as 2 year vocational/trade schools. The award is up to $ 8,000.00 paid out at $2,000 annually for up to four years if a 3.0 GPA is maintained.

Community Foundation of the North State

The Community Foundation builds trust through relationship, integrity, and by providing safe places for donors to give their resources.

We are a nonprofit, public charity serving the people of Shasta, Siskiyou and Tehama counties, with a mission to impact the region through the power of giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of the North State manages many scholarship funds that are awarded to graduating high school seniors as well as students already in an undergraduate program. Some scholarships were started by families or individuals; others by businesses or organizations. All scholarships share one important focus: helping young people reach their educational goals.

Glen Hawk Sr. Endowed Scholarship Fund

This scholarship benefits a Shasta County graduating high school senior who is pursuing a vocational or technical certification at an accredited technical school or community college.

The Glen Hawk Sr. Endowed Scholarship Fund was established by Helen Hawk, in memory of her husband. Glen Hawk Sr. served on the Shasta High School Board of Directors from 1979-1989.

The Private Higher Education Grant, offered by the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations, supports colleges and universities dedicated to undergraduate education and the liberal arts. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $300,000, encouraging projects that enhance student outcomes and faculty leadership. Proposals promoting advocacy for liberal arts, civil discourse, and purpose-oriented education are especially welcomed, fostering an environment of respectful dialogue and a strong sense of purpose among students.

The McElhattan Foundation focuses on innovative solutions to end workplace fatalities by 2050. It invites proposals that develop new technologies, particularly those that eliminate dangerous tasks at work. The foundation partners with the National Safety Council’s Work to Zero program to enhance safety practices. Organizations seeking funding should be established non-profits with a history of successful collaboration, and grants typically start at $50,000. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, fostering impactful initiatives.

The Gigi and Louise Gartner Scholarship provides scholarships of up to $10,000 for high school seniors and college students from Dallas County, TX. Applicants must pursue degrees in holistic medicine or related fields, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and be U.S. citizens or legal residents. This initiative, supported by the Communities Foundation of Texas, aims to empower students in their educational journeys and promote careers in integrative health and wellness.

The NAMA Memorial Fellowship, awarded by the Mycological Society of America, recognizes promising graduate students in mycology. Two fellowships are granted annually based on academic merit and research potential. Recipients must be student members of MSA and can use the funds to enhance their studies. Additionally, they are encouraged to contribute to McIlvainea and attend the annual meeting, fostering connections within the mycological community. This initiative supports diversity and inclusion in the field.

The MSA Graduate Fellowship, awarded by the Mycological Society of America, recognizes outstanding graduate students in mycology. Annually, two fellowships are granted based on academic merit and research potential. These funds serve as supplementary support for graduate studies, and recipients are encouraged to attend the annual meeting to engage with the mycological community. The fellowship aims to promote diversity and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds, ensuring equal opportunity for emerging mycologists.

The RedRover Relief Urgent Care Grants provide crucial financial assistance for pet guardians facing economic hardships due to life-threatening situations affecting their pets. With an average grant of $250, this program aims to bridge funding gaps for urgent veterinary care. Eligibility includes a diagnosis from a veterinarian and a household income below $60,000. Applicants can expect a response within two business days after submission. Updates and photos may be requested from grant recipients.