Thanks to the generosity of the donors in our region, the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers, through one centralized application process, scholarship and interest-free loan funds.

Last year alone, over 1,200 students applied to our program. The Foundation’s Scholarship and Interest-Free Loan program is one of the largest among the country’s 700 community foundations. In 2020, CFWM awarded $2 million to nearly 800 recipients throughout the region. For more information about starting a scholarship fund, please check out our Scholarship Fund Program FAQ and contact our Philanthropic Services division.

These scholarship and interest-free loan funds support students seeking access to the opportunities offered by higher education and play a substantial role in providing an educated citizenry. 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. Scholarship and interest-free loan awards are reviewed by volunteer committees and approved by the Trustees. Awards are made subject to availability and to the policies of the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts. These policies are available for review upon request.

Our Philanthropic Services Division

Keith McKittrick

Keith McKittrick

Director of Philanthropic Operations