Best Worcester Grants for Nonprofits in Massachusetts

The National Register Internship Travel Scholarship, funded by the American Psychological Foundation, offers financial assistance to psychology doctoral students for relocation to their predoctoral internship sites. This scholarship supports diverse applicants who are in good standing in accredited programs and have secured internships recognized by the APA or CPA. By alleviating relocation costs, the scholarship aims to facilitate the professional development of future psychologists.

The Institutional Project Support (IPS) Grant Program by the Japan Foundation aims to enhance Japanese studies in the U.S. by providing up to $150,000 annually for three years. Eligible U.S. institutions must match the grant and focus on innovative proposals that stimulate growth in Japanese studies. The program prioritizes projects that create tenured positions and address national needs, while excluding political or commercial activities. Grants cover faculty salaries, travel, and teaching materials.

The Japan Foundation's Institutional Project Support - Small Grant Program provides up to $25,000 for U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations to enhance Japanese Studies infrastructure. The program targets institutions facing challenges in maintaining their programs, particularly smaller or newer entities without established Japanese Studies initiatives. Eligible projects should focus on promoting Japanese Studies, with funding available for faculty salaries, travel, research materials, and conference expenses. Applications are accepted from institutions committed to advancing their Japanese Studies offerings.

The U.S.-Southeast Asia-Japan Collaboration and Exchange Initiative Grant, administered by the Japan Foundation, New York, aims to enhance Japanese Studies through collaborative research and academic exchanges. Targeting U.S. institutions with developing Japanese Studies programs, this initiative fosters meaningful connections between scholars in the U.S., Southeast Asia, and Japan, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and resource sharing to strengthen academic networks across these regions.

The ACS Local Section Innovative Project Grant Program aims to empower local sections of the American Chemical Society to devise and execute innovative projects that enhance community engagement and chemistry literacy. By fostering collaboration and inclusiveness, this program encourages sections to implement new initiatives inspired by successful practices from other groups. The goal is to strengthen member involvement and promote sustainable activities that contribute positively to the community's scientific culture.

The Drops of Hope Giving Program, initiated by Vapur, aims to enhance environmental sustainability by reducing single-use plastics. This initiative collaborates with organizations to donate thousands of reusable bottles globally, promoting access to clean water. Eligible applicants include registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations or those offering marketing opportunities in exchange for contributions. The program reflects Vapur's commitment to innovative, portable products that inspire active lifestyles, fostering a healthier planet.

The Quality of Life Grants Program, established by the Dana Reeve Foundation, aims to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families by funding nonprofit organizations. Priority Impact Grants - Tier 2 provide support for critical issues affecting those with paralysis, with grants ranging from $25,000 to $30,000. These grants focus on improving access, independence, and community engagement through innovative programs, including assistive technology, disaster preparedness, and respite services.

The BCBSM Foundation's Catalyst Fund Grant offers non-renewable grants of up to $7,500 to Massachusetts-based community organizations focused on enhancing health access for low-income and marginalized residents. Applications will be accepted starting July 1, 2025, aiming to support capacity-building initiatives rather than ongoing operational costs. The fund prioritizes organizations with limited resources that directly impact vulnerable populations, facilitating innovative projects that address health care disparities.

The Basil L. King Scholarship Foundation offers two-year scholarships to St. Lucie County residents pursuing careers in health sciences. Established in 1978, the Foundation supports students with financial needs and encourages local talent to return to the Treasure Coast after graduation. To qualify, applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be accepted into a Health Science program. Awards are determined annually, ensuring support for future healthcare professionals.

The Guru Krupa Foundation Grant supports charitable causes in social, educational, and religious/cultural areas, rooted in Hindu values. The foundation prioritizes projects that aid the underprivileged, enhance education, and preserve cultural heritage, particularly in India and the US. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and demonstrate a commitment to effective accounting practices. The foundation seeks specific projects with measurable outcomes, focusing on direct funding for programs rather than administrative costs.

The Oldham Little Church Foundation Grant, established in 1949, has awarded over $53.56 million in facility completion grants to small evangelical Protestant churches across the U.S. The foundation aims to support church renovations and new construction projects, enhancing their ability to serve their communities. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $15,000 and are considered quarterly. Eligible churches must meet specific criteria, including membership size and financial stewardship, to qualify for funding.

The Mattina R. Proctor Foundation supports vital projects in education, healthcare, the arts, and environmental stewardship, primarily in Maine and Massachusetts. Established in memory of philanthropist Mattina R. Proctor, the foundation aims to fund initiatives that demonstrate a specific need, particularly in music, trades education, public health, and land conservation. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, and preference is given to projects that directly impact underserved communities.

The Robert E & Evelyn McKee Foundation Grant focuses on charitable purposes, primarily supporting organizations that qualify under 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code. It awards funds in various areas including civic, cultural, education, healthcare, and youth activities. Eligible recipients are local charities and certain selected colleges for scholarships. However, the foundation does not fund other foundations, organizations outside the U.S., or individual financial aid. Awards are guided by IRS minimum requirements.

The Sarah Scaife Foundation Grant supports public policy initiatives that tackle significant domestic and international challenges. This grant is intended for publicly-supported non-profit organizations and does not extend to individuals or national fundraising groups. Proposals related to event sponsorships, capital campaigns, or organizations reliant on government funding are typically declined. The focus remains on impactful projects that align with the Foundation's mission.

The AGA: Caroline Craig Augustyn & Damian Augustyn Award in Digestive Cancer offers $40,000 for one year to early career investigators holding a career development award focused on digestive cancer research. This grant aims to support innovative studies in pathogenesis, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Applicants must provide evidence of their current awards, a recommendation letter, and demonstrate how the AGA funding will facilitate their transition to independence in research.

The AGA: Student Abstract Award offers a $500 travel grant to graduate students, medical students, and residents (up to postgraduate year three) presenting at Digestive Disease Week® (DDW). It aims to inspire interest in gastroenterology research by recognizing outstanding abstracts, with the top scorer honored as the Student Abstract of the Year and awarded an additional $1,000. Applicants must be sponsored by an AGA member and may only submit one abstract.

The Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation Youth Grants empower young changemakers aged 5 to 25 to create impactful projects addressing childhood hunger. Grants of $500 are available to projects engaging at least 50 youth volunteers. Activities must occur during the Sodexo Servathon (April 1 – May 31, 2025) and should focus on sustainable solutions to combat hunger in local communities, encouraging participation from underserved youth.

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.

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 Ben J. Lipps Research Fellowship Program supports nephrology fellows in conducting original research on kidney biology and disease. Each fellow receives $50,000 annually for up to two years, with a limit of two applications per sponsor per cycle. Candidates must hold an MD, DO, PhD, or equivalent and commit to 75% research time. The program encourages applications from underrepresented minorities in medicine, fostering diversity in nephrology research.

The ASN Pre-Doctoral Fellowship Award Program aims to support PhD students conducting original research in kidney biology and disease. Each fellowship provides $30,000 annually for two years, contingent upon satisfactory progress reports. Eligible candidates must be graduate students in accredited programs, committed to kidney-focused research, and must engage with ASN as members. The program encourages applications from underrepresented groups in medicine, fostering diversity and innovation in nephrology research.

The Clinical Scientist in Nephrology Fellowship, funded by the American Kidney Fund, supports nephrologists pursuing academic careers. This prestigious program enhances training and promotes clinical research aimed at improving patient care and outcomes for those with chronic kidney disease. With a funding maximum of $90,000 per year for two years, it covers salary and training-related expenses, fostering the next generation of leaders in nephrology.

The Booth Ferris Foundation's Higher Education Grant Program offers crucial capacity-building support to eligible higher education institutions in New York State, requiring an annual budget exceeding $1 million. Established in 1957, the Foundation has contributed over $425 million to various charitable causes. This program focuses on enhancing institutional effectiveness and sustainability, ensuring that organizations can thrive and serve their communities effectively. Note that the Foundation does not fund requests from individual schools or certain types of support.

The Artist's Resource Trust (A.R.T.) Fund supports mid-career visual artists in New England, providing unrestricted fellowships to those who demonstrate financial need. Established in 1996, it aims to enhance artists' creative abilities through grants for supplies, rent, and travel. Eligible artists must reside in the region for at least two years and have a minimum of ten years of active practice. A.R.T. is building an endowment to ensure its support continues indefinitely.

The Artist Resource Trust (A.R.T.) Fund for Organizations Grant supports mid-career visual artists (aged 35+) in New England and parts of New York. Established in 1996, it provides annual funding to nonprofit organizations for commissions, purchases, or engagements with these artists. Eligible organizations must match funds 1:1 in cash and have specific geographic ties. The grant emphasizes quality and commitment in artistic work, aiding in the growth and visibility of mature artists.

The Home Depot Foundation's Veteran Housing Grants Program aims to enhance the lives of U.S. veterans by funding the construction or rehabilitation of supportive housing. Grants, ranging from $100,000 to $500,000, are awarded to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations with experience in veteran housing. Since 2011, the Foundation has committed over $550 million to veteran causes and seeks to invest an additional $750 million by 2030, focusing on projects in major cities across the U.S.

The Mobilize Power Fund Grant, offered by the Third Wave Fund, supports youth-led gender justice activism. This rapid response fund targets organizations led by young women of color and LGBTQ+ youth, providing up to $10,000 for urgent needs. It prioritizes groups addressing recent incidents that threaten their work, fostering community power and leadership. Organizations with budgets under $500,000 can apply, aiming for impactful, time-sensitive initiatives that promote social change.