Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Wisconsin

About 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.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

David G. Wilhelm Memorial Scholarship

The David G. Wilhelm Memorial Fund was created in honor of its namesake in 2020. It supports college students pursuing careers in mental and behavioral health services.  

About 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.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Donald S. & Beulah Mae Williams Scholarship

Created by the late Don Williams in 2016, this scholarship fund initially honored his beloved Beulah Mae, devoted farmer, loving housewife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. It now memorializes this Prospect farming couple.

The Williams Scholarship supports Marion County students who participated in either FFA or 4-H for three or more years.

About Community Foundation of Henderson County

• Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.
• Vision: Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

About Denis Barton ScholarshipApplicant must be a resident of either Transylvania or Henderson County who has graduated from a public, private, parochial or home school program who wishes to pursue an undergraduate degree at a degree granting college or university and who demonstrates the need for financial assistance in order to attend an institution of higher learning. The applicant should have a cumulative GPA equivalent to a "C average" upon graduation. Preference will be given to students from Transylvania County. Financial need will be more strongly considered than grades. An adult student will be considered for this scholarship if he or she can demonstrate reason as to why he or she did not pursue his or her college education immediately after high school. Such reasons would include but are not limited to military service, medical reasons, family obligations, and/or mission work. The recipient must be awarded the scholarship prior to the age of 30.This is a renewable scholarship.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts seeks to enrich the quality of life of the people of our region by:

• Encouraging philanthropy
• Developing a perpetual, flexible endowment
• Assessing and responding to emerging and changing needs
• Serving as a resource, catalyst, and coordinator for charitable activities
• Promoting efficiency in the management of charitable funds

The Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds.

• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. 
• Most scholarships are for students who live in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties. However, some are also available to students who live in Berkshire County and Hartford County in Connecticut.
• We offer scholarships to those who attend on either a full-time or part-time basis. 
• Any student who plans to enroll for the upcoming fall semester, in any year of college as an undergraduate or graduate student and who will attend an accredited post-secondary school in the United States may apply.
• Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

George and Theresa Crete Scholarship Fund

Supporting residents of western Massachusetts

About 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.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Gary W. Troll Memorial Scholarship

The Gary W. Troll Memorial Scholarship Fund, created in 2002, supports higher education for students who reside in the service area of the Northwest Ohio Educational Service Center, where Gary Troll (1947-2002) served as superintendent.

Recipients of the Troll Scholarship may come from any of the high schools in the Northwest Ohio Educational Service Center’s district, including Marion County—Elgin, Pleasant, Ridgedale, and River Valley; Seneca County—Bettsville, Hopewell-Louden, New Riegel, Old Fort, and Seneca East; and, Wyandot County—Carey, Mohawk, and Upper Sandusky. They will be seniors with a GPA of 2.75 or above.

The PEDIGREE Foundation: Dogs Rule Grant aims to support innovative initiatives that enhance dog adoption rates in the U.S. Established in 2008, the foundation focuses on organizations that improve care for dogs in shelters and rescues. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations with a commitment to creating best practices for increasing adoptions. The program requires a manual or toolkit to be developed and shared with the animal welfare community to ensure sustainability and broader impact.

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Jones Family Scholarship

Barri established this scholarship in honor of her parents, Donald and Patsy Jones, who supported education as a way to improve and enrich lives.

The Twomey Family Scholarship, managed by The San Diego Foundation, supports current or former foster youth pursuing higher education. It aims to assist students attending community colleges, universities, or graduate schools in the U.S. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate financial need and community commitment. Since 1997, the Community Scholarship Program has awarded over $59.5 million to help students achieve their academic goals.

The Swantz Family Foundation Grant aims to support innovative nonprofit organizations that reconnect young people with nature. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt, and grants are typically awarded for one year, with some exceptions for multi-year funding. Recipients are required to submit a final report detailing project activities and the use of funds within 12 months. The foundation may recover funds if misused, ensuring accountability and effective use of resources.

The Transition to Aging Research Award for Predoctoral Students, funded by the National Institute on Aging (NIA), invites exceptional graduate students to pursue aging-related postdoctoral training. This two-phase award supports late-stage doctoral candidates in completing dissertation projects across diverse research areas. It aims to facilitate smooth transitions into competitive aging-focused postdoctoral roles, fostering the development of future investigators in aging research. This initiative is designed to enhance collaboration and impactful research in the field of aging.

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

James Preston Poindexter Scholarship Fund

Sanctuary Columbus Church seeks to reduce the opportunity gap that exists in Columbus by providing a college scholarship award to Linden-McKinley graduates intending to attend an Historical Black College or University (HBCU). Our desire is to add other Columbus City Schools high school in relationship with Sanctuary through local partnerships, such as Northland and Mifflin high schools. James Preston Poindexter (October 26, 1819 – February 7, 1907) was an abolitionist, civil rights activist, politician, and Baptist minister from Columbus, Ohio. He was a part of abolitionist and Underground Railroad societies and became the pastor of the historic Second Baptist Church in 1862. From the pulpit, he preached against slavery and for African-American rights. After the American Civil War (1861-1865), he was involved in political activities in Columbus, serving on the City Council, the city Board of Education, the state Forestry Bureau, and as trustee of the Institute for the Blind and of Wilberforce University. It is our honor to name this scholarship fund after James Preston Poindexter, because of his commitment to the future education of Black children and his proclamation for the kingdom of God to come in truth and grace.

The Find Your Light Foundation is committed to providing every child with access to quality arts education. By focusing on direct support for exceptional programs, along with education, advocacy, and outreach, they aim to highlight the importance of arts in youth development. Grants are awarded to arts education initiatives in low-income areas across North America, typically ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, with awards issued in the Summer and Winter each year.

The Coast Fork Scholarship supports graduates or graduating seniors from Cottage Grove or Al Kennedy Alternative High Schools pursuing higher education across the United States. This scholarship is aimed at those who have demonstrated resilience in overcoming challenges, with a focus on applicants dedicated to helping others or improving their communities.

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

James and Ruth Lawrence Scholarship

James Lawrence attended Columbus Public Schools graduating from East High School and The Ohio State University. He was a World War II veteran and retired from the Defense Supply Center of Columbus. Ruth was an active volunteer with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra’s East Unit Women’s Auxiliary. Ruth passed away in 1999, and James passed away in 2015.

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Dr. Patty's Scholarship

Dr. Patricia (Patty) Cunningham was a three-time graduate of The Ohio State University, receiving her Bachelor’s in Women’s Studies (with a minor in Black Studies), Master’s in Higher Education and Student Affairs, and a Ph.D. in Cultural Foundations. Dr. Patty taught leadership courses covering a vast array of topics, such as: poverty, race, gender, and civic engagement, among others. Dr. Patty was much more than an average professor. She was an extreme advocate of social communities and organizations all over Ohio, including schools, senior centers, community recreation centers, and incarceration facilities. Her work spanned from downtown urban environments to Appalachia, making everyone she encountered feel seen, heard, hopeful, and inspired.

Dr. Patty was the founder and Director of the Buckeye Civic Engagement Connection (BCEC), which eventually became the Department of Social Change in The Ohio State University’s (OSU) Office of Student Life. The Department of Social Change, at its peak, used student employees and volunteers to facilitate over 50 programs in eight neighborhoods every week, focused on empowering and engaging underserved and impoverished communities while teaching students crucial civic engagement and leadership skills. Dr. Patty was also a mentor to several students, including many in the Todd A. Bell National Resource Center (BNRC) for the African American Male, The Morrill Scholarship Program, and several student organizations, including Alpha Epsilon Phi Fraternity and Unplugging Society: A Women of Color Think Tank. 

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Devin Aumend Memorial Scholarship

The scholarship was created by Devin’s Mother, Denise Aumend. Despite her physical disability, Devin was always involved in her community through activities including 4-H, Girl Scouts, and church youth activities. Throughout her life, Devin overcame many challenges and obstacles due to her physical disability. This led her to become an independents and determined young lady, maintaining excellent grades throughout school, and earning the title of Valedictorian of her Highland High School class of 2003. Devin completed her Bachelor’s Degree with honors, and her Master’s degree with honors. The Devin Aumend Memorial Scholarship is her mother’s way of honoring Devin for many years to come.

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Amanda Rush Scholarship Fund for Future Leaders

This fund was established to celebrate the life of Amanda Rush who tragically died on October 23, 2020. Amanda worked at White Castle for 14 years, working her way up to manager. This scholarship will support central Ohio restaurant employees or students going to school for restaurant management or hospitality.

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

A. Gordon and Betty H. Imhoff Scholarship

The scholarship supports students from Shelby High School. Gordon and Betty Imhoff were both graduates of Shelby High School and wanted to support students from the school as they further their education.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts seeks to enrich the quality of life of the people of our region by:

• Encouraging philanthropy
• Developing a perpetual, flexible endowment
• Assessing and responding to emerging and changing needs
• Serving as a resource, catalyst, and coordinator for charitable activities
• Promoting efficiency in the management of charitable funds

The Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds.

• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. 
• Most scholarships are for students who live in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties. However, some are also available to students who live in Berkshire County and Hartford County in Connecticut.
• We offer scholarships to those who attend on either a full-time or part-time basis. 
• Any student who plans to enroll for the upcoming fall semester, in any year of college as an undergraduate or graduate student and who will attend an accredited post-secondary school in the United States may apply.
• Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

African American Achievement Fund

Supporting African American residents of Franklin, Hampden and Hampshire Counties who attend four-year colleges.

Nebraska Community Foundation

Nebraska Community Foundation was established in 1994 by a group of visionaries determined to empower communities throughout the state to grow and prosper. They believed that with the right tools and resources, people could build the hometowns of their dreams.

Through philanthropy, our team helps communities develop strong local economies, high quality of life, and abundant leadership and volunteer opportunities. We empower local leaders to identify community assets, invest in their own resources, and bring about their own positive change. 

BCAFF Scholarships

The Butler County Area Foundation Fund is offering three scholarships to graduating seniors who meet individual scholarship criteria. These scholarships are the Butler County Clinic Scholarship (medical field major); Charles O. & Grace M. Stoops Scholarship in Agricultural or Environmental Studies; and Butler County Area Foundation Fund Scholarship.

Butler County Area Foundation Fund Scholarship

• Two $500 scholarships are available annually to graduating residents of Butler County.

• Applicants must be entering his or her first semester of post-secondary education at an accredited school of higher education, or an applicant may be a current year graduate or an earlier graduate resident of Butler County who may have delayed entrance into post-secondary education at an accredited school of higher education.

In just one application, our Common Scholarship Application provides students access to more than 150 scholarship opportunities with awards ranging from $1,000 to more than $5,000.

In 2025, San Diego Foundation awarded a record-breaking $5.5 million in scholarships to nearly 1,400 students.

William and Lucille Ash Scholarship

Be adult re-entry students (age 25 or older) or former foster youth who plan to enroll full-time at an accredited four-year university, community college or licensed career/technical school in the United States in fall (preference may be given to students attending a school in California).

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts seeks to enrich the quality of life of the people of our region by:

• Encouraging philanthropy
• Developing a perpetual, flexible endowment
• Assessing and responding to emerging and changing needs
• Serving as a resource, catalyst, and coordinator for charitable activities
• Promoting efficiency in the management of charitable funds

The Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. Some of the funds help students from a particular school or area; others provide financial assistance to those pursuing a specific field of study; still others assist students that are most in need. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds.

• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. 
• Most scholarships are for students who live in Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden Counties. However, some are also available to students who live in Berkshire County and Hartford County in Connecticut.
• We offer scholarships to those who attend on either a full-time or part-time basis. 
• Any student who plans to enroll for the upcoming fall semester, in any year of college as an undergraduate or graduate student and who will attend an accredited post-secondary school in the United States may apply.
• Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

Arrighi Memorial Scholarship Fund

Supporting residents of Greenfield.

Gibson County Community Foundation

The Community Foundation is a charitable resource devoted to our local community. We help people make meaningful gifts that improve life in Gibson County, Indiana today and for generations to come.

The Community Foundation can help you...

Make a difference where it matters

Invest in the future of the community you love

Create greater good together

Lura and Doyle Skelton Family Memorial Scholarship

Annual, renewable scholarship created by the Hillside United Methodist Church and Lawrence F. Skelton in memory of his parents.

Award Amount

• $1,680

Renewal Details

May be renewable for up to four years. Renewal applications may be considered provided the recipient continues to meet his or her college or university’s academic standards. Renewal award amounts may differ from original award. A new recipient for the award will be identified once every four years. Renewal applications will be assigned to renewal candidates in their online student account.

About the Chester County Community Foundation

Our Mission

The Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with the causes that matter, so their philanthropy makes a difference now and forever.

Robert & Doris Hanna Scholarship Fund

Mission

The Chester County Community Foundation honors the long and philanthropic lives of Dr. Robert and Doris Hanna.

The Helen & Howard R. Marraro Prize in Italian History, awarded annually by the American Historical Association, honors exceptional works in Italian history, cultural history, or Italo-American relations. Established in 1897, this prestigious award recognizes books published in English by North American historians. Currently valued at $1,000, submissions for the 2025 award must have a copyright of 2024. Winners will be announced in October 2025, with a ceremony at the January 2026 AHA annual meeting in Chicago.

The College Now Greater Cleveland Manufacturing Scholarship offers financial assistance to high school graduates pursuing training in manufacturing. Awarded funds, up to $2000, are sent directly to educational institutions for related expenses. Applicants must reside in specific Ohio counties and be enrolled in eligible programs. This scholarship aims to support individuals seeking vocational training, certifications, or degrees within a two-year timeframe, fostering career development in the manufacturing sector.

Coral Gables Community Foundation

Led by community leaders, the Coral Gables Community Foundation provides the philanthropic conduit to connect individuals and corporations looking to positively impact the success of the community. Now in its 33rd year, the Foundation has been at the forefront of the evolving needs of Coral Gables while effectively bringing together beneficiaries and benefactors to fund programs with the greatest impact and benefit to “The City Beautiful.”

Coral Gables Community Foundation’s Scholarships Program

Coral Gables Community Foundation is honored to partner with our fundholders to administer generous scholarships as well as manage the Foundation’s own scholarship funds.

The Foundation and its fundholders have proudly awarded over $6.7 million in scholarships in just the last decade.

The Raymond Bravo Scholarship

The Raymond Bravo Foundation, established at the Coral Gables Community Foundation in 2025, honors the memory and generous spirit of Raymond Bravo, a proud Miami High alumnus and successful lawyer.

The Fund is dedicated to extending a helping hand to needful students from any high school in Miami Dade County Public Schools.

Rooted in Raymond’s belief that success requires hard work, natural ability, and help from others, the Fund seeks to ensure that financial difficulty does not prevent students from achieving their educational goals and professional dreams. Through scholarship awards, The Raymond Bravo Fund provides tuition support, empowering students to pursue higher education and realize their fullest potential.