Best Nursing Grants in Illinois

Illinois higher education institutions with registered nursing programs can seek funding to improve or expand associate, baccalaureate, or master’s entry-level nursing education. With a mission to strengthen nursing education, Illinois Board of Higher Education provides Illinois nursing programs with US $10,000 - US $150,000 for student support, faculty hiring, clinical enhancements, facilities, equipment, and equity-focused initiatives.

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research. 

Distinguished Contribution Award

The purpose of the Distinguished Contribution Award is to recognize the scientific contribution of a member who has conducted or promoted research, which has enhanced the science and practice of nursing in the MNRS region.

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research. 

Harriet H. Werley New Investigator Award

The purpose of the Harriet H. Werley New Investigator Award is to recognize the scientific contribution of a new investigator who has conducted nursing research that has the potential to enhance the science and practice of nursing.

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research.

MNRS Distinguished Service Award

The Distinguished Service Award recognizes an MNRS member who has demonstrated sustained influential leadership and service to the organization, such as chairing committees, organizing annual conference activities, or serving on the Board of Directors. 

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research.

MNRS Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes an MNRS member who has significantly advanced the profession of nursing either through an extensive program of research or creation of environments where research can flourish, and whose sustained leadership and distinguished career yielded outstanding and noteworthy accomplishments. 

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research.

The Excellence in Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Award

The purpose of the Excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award is to recognize the contribution of a member who has demonstrated outstanding commitment and made significant contributions to advance equitable health outcomes and reduce health disparities through research, which has enhanced the science and practice of nursing in the MNRS region.  

Nonprofit organizations in Illinois developing collaborations between Area Agencies on Aging, aging network providers, and nursing student programs can access funding through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. This $48,046 Student Nursing Respite Pilot Program supports pilot projects that expand respite services for family caregivers of older adults while giving nursing students supervised clinical experience.

Graduating or recent high school students in Illinois pursuing full-time nursing degrees can apply for the Judy Whinfrey Memorial Nursing Scholarship Fund from Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley. Scholarships support East Aurora and West Aurora High School graduates studying for ADN, BSN, or MSN at accredited U.S. post-secondary institutions.

UNCF Health Careers Scholarship

The UNCF Health Careers Scholarship Program is designed to assist in the development of a more diverse workforce in health professions in Greater Cleveland. University Hospitals, Cleveland Clinic and Kaiser Foundation are partnering with UNCF to develop an endowed scholarship for students of CSSM (Cleveland School of Science and Medicine) at John Hay High School who plan to enter the health professions.

Eligible students will receive a $5,000 merit-based scholarship in the Academic Year 2026-2027. Award recipients may be eligible for renewals for the subsequent years provided they continue to meet the criteria.

The Lawrence F. and Barbara J. Dickman Scholarship supports Zeeland High School graduates pursuing higher education in the U.S. on a medical track. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and can reapply if they have received the award previously. Recommendations from teachers or counselors are required. Scholarships are usable starting in the fall of the announcement year and unaccepted scholarships will be forfeited after December 31. This scholarship aims to foster future healthcare professionals.

The Illinois Community College System Foundation Health Care Scholarship, managed by the John Wood Community College Foundation, offers financial support to Illinois residents enrolled in health care programs. Recipients must demonstrate financial need and a commitment to practice in Illinois or benefit Illinoisans. This scholarship aims to nurture future healthcare leaders by easing their educational expenses, thereby encouraging their pursuit of a career in health care. The scholarship amount is $400.

The Illinois Community College System Foundation Health Trust Scholarship, awarded by the John Wood Community College Foundation, offers financial assistance to students pursuing health-related programs. Recipients must demonstrate the ability to succeed in their chosen field and show financial need. Established in 1984, the JWCC Foundation aims to support students in their educational journey, fostering future leaders through financial support and community engagement. This scholarship provides $400 to eligible students.

The Joanna Orr Memorial Scholarship, supported by the JWCC Foundation, honors the legacy of Joanna Orr, a dedicated nurse. Established for aspiring nurse assistants, this scholarship emphasizes compassion and care in healthcare. Since its inception in 1984, the JWCC Foundation has aimed to empower students through various scholarships, helping them become future leaders in their fields. The scholarship amount varies, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to supporting education and community service.

The Grace Scholarship for Nursing, offered by the John Wood Community College Foundation, provides financial assistance of $100 to female students pursuing a nursing degree. This scholarship aims to support candidates based on their motivational goals articulated in a personal narrative, financial need assessed through income and aid, and academic performance. Established in 1984, the JWCC Foundation strives to empower students and foster future leaders in the healthcare sector.

Nursing and health sciences students in Illinois can receive scholarship support for higher education costs through the Dr. B.J. Rodriguez Scholarship. Focused on health sciences fields, John Wood Community College Foundation offers this $500 award to help adult learners and college students pursuing nursing and related programs in Adams County.

The Del and Ruth Dougherty Memorial Scholarship, established by Sandy McKelvie in honor of her parents, supports students in health occupations programs. Offered through the JWCC Foundation, which has been advancing educational opportunities since 1984, this scholarship reflects a commitment to help future leaders achieve their academic goals. The award amount varies, providing flexible support to deserving applicants as they pursue their educational aspirations at John Wood Community College.

The Amy Nicole Reichert, RN Scholarship, established by the Wainman family in 2014, supports first-year nursing students transitioning into their second year of the ADN program. With a scholarship amount of $500, it emphasizes the importance of excellent patient-family centered care in nursing practices. Funded by the John Wood Community College Foundation, this scholarship reflects a commitment to fostering future healthcare leaders and enhancing the quality of care provided to patients.

The Brorstrom Scholarship for Nursing, offered by the JWCC Foundation, supports two female students in the LPN Program. Selection criteria include a narrative statement detailing personal and professional nursing goals, financial need based on income and aid, and academic performance. This scholarship, valued at $500 each, aims to empower future nursing leaders by easing their financial burdens and encouraging their educational aspirations.

The Leffman Healthcare Scholarship, established in 2004 by Dr. Peter and Mrs. Mary Leffman, is designed to support students in financial need pursuing degrees in healthcare. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. This scholarship is administered by the JWCC Foundation, which has been advancing educational opportunities since 1984, enabling students to prepare for future leadership roles in their fields.

Cumberland Community Foundation ("CCF") manages more than 60 scholarship endowment funds created by local individuals, families, civic organizations, and corporations who want to provide a path to higher education for future generations. 

Each year, Cumberland Community Foundation announces more than $1,000,000 in college scholarships to students from southeastern North Carolina.

Brian Edkins Memorial Scholarship

Graduating senior from Cape Fear High School; South View High School (Cumberland County) or Scotland High School (Scotland County, NC).

In 2025, the Community Foundation of Madison & Jefferson County awarded over $233,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors of the county’s public and private high schools. Nearly 50 different students earned money toward their college costs. Scholarships are available for a variety of applicants. Some are specific to schools, majors, need, or interests.

CFMJC scholarships may be used for tuition and related expenses like fees and required equipment at accredited colleges and universities. Room and board are not covered.

Carolyn Bruce Spicer & Gene E. Spicer Nursing Scholarship (Adult Learner)

Criteria evaluated:

• Academic performance, work history, and financial need

Required materials:

• FAFSA SAI PDF upload

Scholarship amount:

• $1,100 | 1 scholarship

Heartland Bank Community Enhancement Award

Amount:

• $500

This scholarship is offered by Heartland Bank & Trust Company. Applicants should be enrolled in one of the following areas of study: business, finance, education, nursing or technology. Applicants must demonstrate community involvement outside the classroom. An additional one-page essay explaining how the scholarship will help the student achieve their education goals must accompany the application.

Mary Joan Keeney Scholarship

The Mary Joan Keeney Scholarship was established in 2017 to honor the memory of Joan Keeney and her dedication to continuing education. In 1992, at the age of fifty-nine, she attended Denver Seminary in Denver, Colorado and completed a life-long dream of earning a Master’s in Counseling. Upon graduation, she volunteered as a grief and bereavement counselor at The First Presbyterian Church in Boulder, Colorado. Her life passion was helping others heal and return to love.

The purpose of this scholarship is to provide non-traditional, female students interested in nursing and mental health careers access to funds to help further their education and/or certification. In 2026, two one-time scholarship awards of $5,000 each will be offered.

Logan County Nurses Scholarship

The Logan County Nurses Scholarship is available to nursing students who reside in Logan County and have been accepted into a nursing program working towards a ADN, BSN, or MSN.

Scholarship amount:

• $2,000

Number of awards:

• 3

Scholarship awards are one-time awards. The amount awarded to a selected recipient may be used for the cost of attendance. All scholarships will be paid directly to the recipient’s school and must be used for the upcoming academic year. Award disbursement is contingent upon the outside scholarship policies of a recipient’s college or university.

Lakeview Foundation Scholarship

The Lakeview Foundation provides higher education scholarships to college bound students of Eastern Van Buren County, Michigan who are pursuing a healthcare degree.

Lakeview Foundation started in 1985 as a Hospital Authority Foundation. Its existence is solely due to the hospital that was started in Paw Paw in 1939 in a house that was the summer home of David Rose, a former mayor of Milwaukee.

The hospital quickly became Lakeview Municipal Hospital and eventually Lakeview Community Hospital Authority comprising the Villages of Paw Paw, Lawton, Decatur and Mattawan, The City of Gobles, and the Townships of Paw Paw, Pine Grove, Decatur, Antwerp, Almena, Hamilton, Porter and Lawrence.

Shortly after the hospital authority sold the hospital to Bronson Methodist Hospital, Lakeview Foundation became independent and accepted a large donation as part of the sale. Lakeview Foundation enjoys a close bond with Lakeview Bronson Hospital.

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.

William G. & Marion E. Stuckle Scholarship

The fund was also established to provide scholarships and assistance with training for individuals pursuing, or wishing to pursue, a career in nursing. William Stuckle, and his late wife, Marion, have long recognized the importance of encouraging individuals in selecting nursing as a profession in our society and the need for constant updates in their training. The scholarship awards will be based on character, including the caring, respect, trustworthiness, responsibility, fairness, and citizenship of the individuals.

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.

Georgia Rothberg Nursing Scholarship Fund

Georgia Rothberg was a school nurse. She as very concerned about cancer research and volunteered many hours with the American Cancer Society. In establishing this scholarship fund, it was Georgia's hope that dedicated nursing careers would develop from this assistance, and that the scholarship recipients share the value of their education with the community. This scholarship was designed to provide financial assistance to individuals who are currently providing nursing services or desire to provide nursing services in the Battle Creek area for educational expenses incurred to obtain nursing degrees and/or continuing nursing education for those who have already obtained nursing degrees. Scholarship recipients are selected on the basis of academic performance, financial need, character and citizenship, and motivation to succeed.