Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Alaska

The Ted Smith Conservation Internship Program, established by the Alaska Conservation Foundation, aims to invest in young adults pursuing careers in conservation. This program offers undergraduates and recent graduates hands-on experience, practical job skills, and networking opportunities with conservation professionals in Alaska. Interns contribute to vital conservation efforts while gaining invaluable insights into the state's unique environment and cultures. Selected host organizations receive funding to support intern stipends for 12 weeks.

The Northern Scientific Training Program (NSTP) supports Canadian university students engaged in northern studies by providing supplementary funding for their thesis research in the North. Established in 1961, this program helps over 350 students annually across 35 universities, fostering essential training and professional experience. Applications must be submitted by a recognized Northern Studies Committee chairperson, ensuring eligibility for various northern research projects, which must be tied to students' thesis work.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.

The Arts Educator Fellowships, supported by the Rasmuson Foundation and administered by the Alaska State Council on the Arts, provide grants up to $3,000 for K-12 teachers in Alaska. These fellowships aim to enhance teachers' artistic skills and professional opportunities, allowing them to immerse in creative work. Eligible applicants can pursue various activities, including workshops and residencies, and may propose community projects post-fellowship, receiving additional funding for these initiatives.

The EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement-Focused Collaborations Program (RII-FEC) aims to enhance research capabilities in eligible jurisdictions by fostering partnerships among government, higher education, and industry. This program supports interdisciplinary teams of researchers to tackle significant challenges in STEM fields, promoting diversity and broadening participation. By integrating Minority-Serving Institutions and early-career faculty from underrepresented backgrounds, RII-FEC seeks to build sustainable STEM capacity and drive impactful discoveries across regions.

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

The Northwest Coast Art & Museum Studies Scholarship, administered by Sealaska Heritage Institute, supports full-time students pursuing degrees in Northwest Coast Art at UAS or IAIA, or Museum studies at any U.S. college. Eligible applicants must be Alaska Native or descendants of enrolled Alaska Natives, with a minimum GPA of 2.0. This scholarship provides up to $5,000 for the Spring 2026 semester, promoting educational advancement for Sealaska's shareholders and descendants.

Arts, Health and Well-Being in Alaska Program

The Arts, Health and Well-Being in Alaska program supports creative projects that use the arts to improve health, reduce risk, and strengthen community connections through partnerships between artists, organizations, and the health sector.

This program is a pilot with a single application deadline, awarding grants to Organizations and Individuals for community-based and creative projects that integrate the arts to support the health and well-being of Alaskans. The impact of the arts on health and well-being can be seen at all stages of life, and the Alaska State Council on the Arts (ASCA) seeks proposals that will explore the practice of the arts, health and well-being. This pilot investment builds on previous granting and program development, including the Community Arts Partnership, Adaptation and Innovation, and Arts and Military programs of the Alaska State Council on the Arts.

Arts, Health and Well-Being in Alaska is a program of the Alaska State Council on the Arts, with funding support from Rasmuson Foundation. Arts and Health initiatives from the National Endowment for the Arts will inform the Arts, Health and Well-Being in Alaska.

Gilead North America Grants support community-informed programs that enhance healthcare for vulnerable populations. Grants are available for innovative projects addressing HIV, liver diseases, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Applications are invited from tax-exempt nonprofits based in the U.S. who focus on health equity and community engagement. Gilead prioritizes funding for projects that demonstrate a strong capability to deliver impactful outcomes, helping to eliminate barriers to healthcare and improve access to essential services.

The Alaska Arts Reporting Initiative Grant, provided by the Alaska Community Foundation, aims to support innovative arts and culture stories that go beyond the current coverage in Alaska. This initiative encourages individuals and journalism organizations, particularly those based in Alaska, to apply for funding that can cover various project expenses, including travel and data analysis. It represents a significant opportunity to enhance the visibility of local narratives and strengthen community engagement through storytelling.

The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

The Alaska Migrant Literacy Grant, provided by the U.S. Department of Education and managed by the Alaska Department of Education & Early Development, aims to enhance educational opportunities for migratory children. This grant supports districts in improving literacy for migratory families through access to literature, family engagement activities, and instructional strategies. It is designed to meet state academic standards and ensure that migratory children achieve success in their educational programs.

About the Pacific Northwest Kiwanis Foundation

Through Helping Hands Fellowships, memorial gifts, and bequests, the Foundation provides a variety of ways to leave a lasting legacy for the children and youth of the Pacific Northwest.

Every member of a Kiwanis club in the Pacific Northwest District is also a member of the Pacific Northwest Kiwanis Foundation.

Our Purpose

The Pacific Northwest Kiwanis Foundation is a non-profit charitable corporation founded in 1985 and endorsed by the Pacific Northwest District of Kiwanis International:

• To promote the sponsored youth groups of the Pacific Northwest Kiwanis District. These include: Circle K (college/university students); Key Clubs (high school students); Builders Clubs (middle school students); K Kids (elementary school students); and Aktion Clubs (adults with disabilities).
• To assist needy persons – particularly youth
• To assist worthy youth to attain vocational excellence
• To aid the handicapped and disadvantaged

Specific emphasis is directed to promotion and support of sponsored youth groups particularly through scholarships and leadership training.

Grants

The PNW Kiwanis Foundation provides support for children, youth, and the disabled in the Pacific Northwest through grants designated for Kiwanis-sponsored projects.

During the last 2 years the PNW Kiwanis Foundation gave away over $20,000 in grant money.

PNW Kiwanis Foundation New Club Opening Mini Grant

The PNW Kiwanis Foundation will provide a $500 mini grant to new clubs to help kick start their charitable giving. Clubs are required to provide us with a “bragging-rights” status report and pictures of how these monies were used after completion of their project.

Purpose

Grants provide limited opportunities for Kiwanis clubs to receive financial assistance with a key project benefiting children or youth in their community. Funded projects may also provide an opportunity to generate exposure for the Foundation and its activities.

Grants must be in keeping with the purpose of the Foundation, which generally is to support children and youth in the Pacific Northwest. Projects that fall outside the Pacific Northwest may be quite worthy of support but would not qualify for a grant from the Foundation.

Club Support

The Foundation does not want to support a project that is not supported by the local Kiwanis club. That is why all grant requests must be accompanied by a letter of support from the Kiwanis club.

The SFS Fellows Grant, awarded by the Society for Freshwater Science, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater science research, policy, or management. Each year, up to four fellows are selected based on their sustained excellence and leadership within the field. This initiative also encourages diversity by promoting nominations from underrepresented groups and mid-career professionals. The grant fosters collaboration and participation in SFS activities, enhancing the impact of freshwater science.

About Us

Overview

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives. ACF also manages the Pick.Click.Give. program.

Mission

Inspiring the spirit of giving and connecting people, organizations, and causes to strengthen Alaska’s communities now and forever.

Vision

ACF envisions an Alaska where communities come together and have resources to thrive.

Ray and Maxine Stephens Memorial Scholarship Fund

Established by the family of Ray and Maxine Stephens to honor their memory and commitment to education in rural Alaska.

The Richard L. and Diane M. Block Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for Alaskans through support for social services, arts, culture, and youth empowerment. The foundation prioritizes organizations that provide direct services, address underlying social challenges, and demonstrate financial responsibility. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) non-profits based in Alaska for at least five years, focusing on sustainable solutions. Grants are not available for medical services or organizations that redistribute funds.

The Manufacturing Extension Partnership Center State Competition aims to support small and mid-sized manufacturers in the U.S. by facilitating the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies. This initiative, funded by the NIST, encourages innovation in manufacturing through the integration of robotics, AI, and other technologies. Eligible applicants can establish MEP Centers in various states, helping manufacturers improve competitiveness and economic outcomes. This program is vital for enhancing productivity and fostering growth in the manufacturing sector.

The Anchor QEA Scholarship supports graduate students pursuing degrees in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, with awards between $1,000 and $10,000. This program emphasizes helping those in financial need, particularly focusing on BIPOC students to address inequities in STEM. Eligible candidates must demonstrate a commitment to community service and possess an inclusive mindset. This initiative reflects Anchor QEA's dedication to fostering a diverse and equitable educational environment.

The Alaska State Council on the Arts offers Cultural Collaborations Project Grants, providing matching awards of up to $6,000 to support high-quality arts and cultural programs for youth in Alaska. These grants emphasize skill acquisition and participation outside the school year. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, schools, and tribal entities, with a focus on projects that foster cultural heritage and artistic engagement. Partnerships are encouraged, enhancing community involvement in the arts.

The Jay L. Smith Family Foundation provides grants to tax-exempt non-profit organizations in the United States, primarily focusing on healthcare, family values, and supporting the disadvantaged. With a strong commitment to Alzheimer's research, the foundation has funded various initiatives including elderly care, domestic violence prevention, and cancer research. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities through meaningful contributions, aiming to address critical social issues and promote well-being.

The RurAL CAP Foundation Grant offers funding between $500 and $25,000 for projects aimed at supporting low-income individuals and rural communities. This foundation focuses on enhancing educational opportunities, cultural preservation, and local leadership development. Grants may support community-driven initiatives like skill-building workshops or long-term projects that foster sustainability. Applications are accepted quarterly, with funding decisions made about 30 days after each deadline, ensuring timely support for impactful community projects.

The Von Voigtlander Family Foundation Grant, though currently closed, aims to support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, primarily in Michigan. The foundation emphasizes animal welfare, parks preservation, veteran support, and youth empowerment. Their mission is to enhance lives through community-focused initiatives that foster resilience, education, and well-being. They prioritize charities that promote responsible pet ownership, outdoor recreation, and provide resources for veterans and youth, ensuring a positive impact across multiple sectors.

AgWest Farm Credit offers the Rural Community Grants program aimed at enhancing the economic and social well-being of rural communities in the western United States. Non-profit organizations can apply for grants up to $5,000 for various community projects, such as facility improvements and equipment purchases. Applications are reviewed monthly, and a letter of support from an AgWest employee or customer is required. The program is committed to fostering innovative solutions for rural challenges.

The Alleghany Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) organization in Virginia, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the Alleghany Highlands through strategic funding initiatives. It seeks grant applications that address key areas such as economic transformation, educational excellence, health and wellness, community capacity, and civic leadership. By prioritizing innovative projects and supporting local organizations, the Foundation aims to foster sustainable growth and community engagement, ensuring a vibrant future for the region.

Grant-in-Aid (GIA) 

"Grant In Aid" is a program that the Alaska State Museum has been offering to museums and cultural centers across Alaska for over four and a half decades! There are two separate tracks that you may apply for. Museums and cultural centers can apply for either a Mini Grant or a Regular Grant but cannot apply for both. 

The Alaska State Museum (ASM) provides Alaska museums with funding to enhance museum services through the annual Grant-in-Aid (GIA) program. 

Both grant programs support projects that supplement or improve the services that a museum provides. Organizations can use grant awards for projects related to collections, exhibits, education, outreach, and organizational development. Funds can be used to purchase supplies and equipment, pay for contractual services or other items necessary to support and improve museum services and operations. Museums are encouraged to submit project proposals in support of consultations with Tribes as required under the new NAGPRA regulations. The program may consider proposals that provide funding for professional development and training. 

Regular Grants

Up to $12,000 are available to eligible museums and cultural centers of all sizes, regardless of size of operating budget. 

The Francis Grants, established by Catholic Extension, offer funding for significant events in poor mission dioceses, such as the ordination of new Bishops, anniversaries, or papal visits. These grants also support educational endeavors for Bishops. Named in honor of Francis Clement Kelly, Francis Cardinal George OMI, and Pope Francis, the program aims to strengthen the Catholic faith across the U.S. Since 1905, Catholic Extension has invested over $500 million to assist communities in need.

The Asian Cultural Council's Graduate Fellowship provides financial support for travel and living expenses to graduate students from Asia studying in the U.S. It offers $15,000 for one academic year, potentially renewable for another year, covering essential costs while pursuing full-time coursework. This initiative fosters international cultural exchange and enhances academic training in the arts. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in accredited graduate programs and commit to at least two consecutive semesters of study.