Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Wisconsin

The AFRL Directed Energy Directorate invites applications for unclassified research projects related to directed energy technologies. This initiative seeks partnerships with U.S. colleges and universities to advance fundamental research in areas such as Laser Systems, High Power Electromagnetics, and Weapons Modeling. The goal is to support the Department of Defense's mission by fostering innovative research that aligns with national security interests. Proposals are accepted until July 18, 2029.

Information for Russell Sage Foundation Grant Seekers

RSF makes external grants for social science research projects that address questions of interest under its research priorities. 

Research Priorities

RSF supports high-quality innovative research under four core research priorities:

• Behavioral Science and Decision Making in Context
• Future of Work
• Race, Ethnicity, and Immigration
• Social, Political, and Economic Inequality

In addition, it supports research under the following time-limited co-funded research priorities:

• Immigration and Immigrant Integration
• Implications of the 2023 Supreme Court Decision to Ban Race-Conscious Admissions at Colleges and Universities for Educational Attainment and Economic Mobility
• Causal Research on the Criminal Justice System

Overview of Core Research Grants

All research grant applications must be preceded by a letter of inquiry (LOI). RSF has 3 funding cycles per year and only considers proposals that are invited following review of an initial letter of inquiry. After peer review, about 15% of those who submit an LOI will receive an invitation to submit a full proposal. RSF rarely considers projects for which the investigators have not already fully-developed the research design, the sample framework, access to data, etc. Investigators are encouraged to submit an LOI after they have developed and pre-tested survey instruments, completed preliminary data analyses if the data are publically-available or conducted some preliminary interviews for qualitative studies.

Funding

There are two levels of funding for core grants, Trustee-approved grants and Presidential-Authority grants. The maximum grant amount for a Trustee grant is $200,000, including 15% indirect costs. Grants up to $75,000 are considered Presidential-Authority grants. RSF has 3 funding cycles per year and only considers proposals that are invited following review of an initial letter of inquiry. After peer review, about 15% of those who submit an LOI will receive an invitation to submit a full proposal. The final funding rate for core research grants is approximately 6-10% of submitted LOIs.

Implications of the 2023 Supreme Court Decision to Ban Race-Conscious Admissions at Colleges and Universities for Educational Attainment and Economic Mobility - Request for Proposals

The Russell Sage Foundation, in collaboration with the Hewlett, Spencer, and William T. Grant foundations, seeks to support innovative research on the effects of the Supreme Court decision on a diversity of outcomes—from who attends college and where and the extent to which alternatives to race-conscious policies contribute to educational attainment and economic mobility among different groups in the population. Our interests extend beyond the effects on applications, admissions, enrollment, and degree completion and include the downstream effects, including whether and how the decision alters the college-to-career pipeline that many employers rely on to diversify their workforce, and the factors associated with public opposition to and support for race-conscious policies. We are particularly interested in analyses that make use of newly available data or demonstrate novel uses of existing data. We also support original data collection and encourage methodological variety and inter-disciplinary collaboration. 

Read the full RFP for this time-limited co-funded research priority here.

About the Healthy Soils Program Block Grant

Through the Block Grant model, CDFA's Office of Agricultural Resilience and Sustainability (OARS), partners with regional organizations to administer local grant programs that support farmers and ranchers implementing healthy soils practices.

Block Grant Recipients work directly with producers in their region by providing outreach, technical assistance, and support throughout project implementation. These organizations manage the local application process, recommend projects for funding to CDFA, establish agreements with producers who carry out soil-health practices on their operations, and manage funded on-farm projects.

By working through trusted regional partners, the Block Grant model helps ensure funding reaches producers along with locally informed support and technical expertise, thus expanding the adoption of soil-building practices across California.

The Staff Research Program, initiated by the ARO, aims to enhance the professional skills of its scientific staff through collaborative basic research with external institutions. This program encourages hands-on scientific investigations in various fields, including engineering and life sciences, while ensuring the integrity of the ARO's mission. ARO scientists will not act as principal investigators on proposals but will contribute to research outcomes and educational activities, fostering knowledge advancement and collaboration.

The Ben May Charitable Trust, established in 1971 by Mr. Ben May, supports charitable, scientific, and educational initiatives. Notably, it has funded the Ben May Laboratory for Cancer Research at the University of Chicago, contributing to significant medical advancements. The Trust accepts funding requests from 501(c)(3) organizations. Mr. May's legacy includes support for renowned researchers and institutions, ensuring ongoing contributions to the field of medical science and education.

The Mark B. Holzman Scholarship, offered by the Delaware Community Foundation, provides a one-time award of $2,500 to eligible Delaware residents. Applicants must have graduated from an accredited undergraduate institution and been accepted into an accredited graduate program in fields such as medicine, law, or ministry. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing advanced degrees while maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0. For more details, visit delcf.org/scholarships.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is continuing its support for the NeuroNEXT initiative, which focuses on conducting clinical trials and biomarker validation studies for neurological disorders. This infrastructure aims to foster innovation and enhance the development of effective neurotherapeutics for both adult and pediatric populations. While applications for network clinical research sites are not currently being solicited, this notice allows potential applicants to prepare collaborative and responsive applications.

The Canfor Good Things Come From Trees Foundation is dedicated to fostering equitable and sustainable community initiatives across Canada and the US. By providing scholarships for students pursuing careers in forestry and sustainability, funding health and well-being projects, and investing in environmental protection, the foundation aims to create lasting impacts. Their commitment ensures future generations are empowered while promoting cultural awareness and resilience through community-driven projects.

The Bernard Erlin Memorial Scholarship, offered by the ACI Foundation, honors the contributions of Erlin to the concrete industry. It provides financial support of $5,000 to deserving undergraduate or graduate students pursuing degrees related to concrete materials. Recipients will also receive recognition in Concrete International magazine. This scholarship aims to foster the next generation of leaders in the concrete sector, ensuring educational opportunities for passionate individuals committed to innovation in this field.

The 201 Undergraduate Concrete Durability Scholarship, offered by the ACI Foundation, is designed for full-time undergraduate students pursuing degrees in concrete-related fields. This scholarship awards $5,000 for educational expenses while also recognizing recipients in Concrete International magazine and on the Foundation's website. The scholarship aims to support students who demonstrate a keen interest in concrete durability, contributing to the advancement of the concrete industry.

The BRAIN Initiative, led by the NIH, aims to advance neurotechnologies at institutions with limited NIH funding. This funding opportunity encourages collaboration and knowledge transfer to integrate innovative neurotechnologies into research and training programs. While applications are currently not being solicited, potential applicants should start developing partnerships and projects in preparation for future submissions. This initiative will enhance the dissemination of BRAIN technologies and support novel research practices.

The Limited Competition Small Grant Program under the NCATS CTSA aims to enhance the research capabilities of scholars transitioning to independent academic translational scientists. This program supports diverse clinical and translational science projects, including pilot studies and methodology development. The R03 grants are designed for short-term projects with limited resources that generate preliminary data for future R01 applications, thereby fostering innovation and advancing health research.

The Richard D. Stehly Memorial Scholarship, offered by the ACI Foundation, supports undergraduate students pursuing degrees in concrete-related fields, particularly in structural design, materials, or construction. Applicants must demonstrate community sustainability efforts in their essays. The scholarship provides a $5,000 educational stipend and recognition in Concrete International magazine. This opportunity is open to international students, and recipients will receive funds in two installments during the award cycle, which spans from fall to spring semester.

The Wallace K. and Jane Ewing Scholarship, funded by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports high school seniors from the Tri-Cities pursuing studies in English. This scholarship considers financial need and involvement in arts and humanities activities, aiming to empower local students to achieve their educational goals. Applicants must submit transcripts and relevant documents, ensuring a comprehensive review process. This initiative reflects the commitment of Wally and Jane to positively impact student futures in the community.

The Paul and Helen Lenchuk Engineering Student Scholarship Program, established by the NCMA Education and Research Foundation, aims to support full-time graduate students in engineering fields across the U.S. and Canada. With a focus on innovative uses of concrete masonry, this program awards a non-renewable $5,000 scholarship annually. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate proficiency in English, ensuring a commitment to advancing the concrete masonry and hardscape industry.

The Fostering Support of Mathematics Learning for Multilingual Learners grant, funded by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, aims to enhance PK-12 mathematics education by promoting multilingualism. It provides resources for professional development and materials to support teachers in integrating students' languages and cultures into their math instruction. Eligible applicants include PK-12 schools and educators committed to equitable teaching practices. This initiative encourages innovative approaches to foster an inclusive learning environment for diverse learners.

The Parkview Community Fund, established in 2024 by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, aims to enhance community life in the Parkview School District area. It serves local residents, donors, and businesses, facilitating charitable contributions that are tax-deductible. The Fund supports various initiatives, including education, health care, and community development, by awarding grants annually based on its earnings. This initiative strengthens local engagement and promotes sustainable development in Southern Wisconsin.

The Partnership for Transition to College Readiness Grant, established by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, aims to foster collaborations between high schools and local higher education institutions to enhance 12th-grade college readiness in mathematics. This initiative targets students identified as not yet prepared for college-level math, emphasizing forward-looking strategies that prioritize readiness over remedial approaches. Eligible applicants must include both high school and higher education faculty, with a focus on innovation and student success.

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

David R. Miller and Sara G. Miller Scholarship Fund

The David R. Miller and Sara G. Miller Scholarship Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships for first year college students from Western Pennsylvania pursuing courses of study in engineering or manufacturing, or related trades.

Award Type: Single-Year Award

The Fiscal Year 2027 AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP Competition invites communities to apply for funding aimed at engaging adults aged 55 and older in addressing pressing local needs. Through national service and volunteerism, AmeriCorps strengthens communities and fosters civic engagement. This open competition spans all states and territories, encouraging organizations to harness the skills and expertise of older adults to enhance community well-being and promote a culture of service.

The Big Brothers/Big Sisters Green County Scholarship is offered by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin to students from several high schools in the region. It supports those who have engaged with BB/BS services, emphasizing community involvement and financial need. Selection criteria focus on the applicant's years of service and the impact of BB/BS on their life, fostering a commitment to community and personal goals.

The Tech Journalism Fund, established by Omidyar Network, aims to support U.S.-based journalists with project funding ranging from $5,000 to $25,000. It prioritizes reporting that explores the intersection of technology and society, particularly in areas like AI regulation, investigative journalism in tech, and the impact of AI on families. This initiative seeks to empower journalists tackling critical issues in today's digital landscape.

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.

Leroy McKinney Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund

This scholarship was created in memory of Leroy McKinney Jr., who was a graduate of Battle Creek Central High School, Class of 1988. Upon graduation, he studied Pre-Engineering in college. He also had an entrepreneurial spirit. Though he struggled with mental illness, one of his proudest accomplishments in life, was returning to college as an adult and completing his Bachelor's degree in Business Management. He would be honored to know this scholarship was created in his legacy to support other African American men to pursue their education in these fields.

The Freeman Hrabowski Scholars Program, funded by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, supports exceptional scientists for a five-year term, with potential for renewal. Scholars receive up to $8.6 million over ten years, including salaries, benefits, and a substantial research budget. They dedicate at least 80% of their time to research and foster an inclusive lab environment, mentoring future scientists. This program emphasizes scientific excellence while integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion into research practices.

The Curtis Rex Carter Applied Science Scholarship provides a $2,500 award to graduating high school seniors from select schools who are majoring in Electrical, Chemical, Computer Engineering, Chemistry, or Applied Micro-biology. This renewable scholarship supports students maintaining a 2.8 GPA and enrolled in at least 12 credit hours. Applicants must demonstrate financial need by submitting FAFSA-SAI and an essay. The scholarship aims to foster academic excellence and support students in pursuing their educational goals.

Scholarship funds are established by local individuals, families, businesses and organizations. They provide tuition assistance and financial support to new and continuing college students, and many offer renewable awards.

Jessica Lynn Herman Memorial Scholarship

Graduating high school senior from the Huntington Beach High School District with a passion for both the sciences and humanities and demonstrated commitment to mentoring or tutoring. 

The Culture Works Leonard P. Roberts Memorial Scholarship honors Mr. Roberts' dedication to business and the arts. This scholarship is available for graduating high school seniors and current college students in the Dayton Region who actively participate in the arts. Eligible applicants must reside in specific counties and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to students majoring in the arts, business, or engineering, but all fields of study are welcome to apply.