Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Arkansas

The Blue & You Foundation Mini Grant program supports Arkansas-based organizations addressing health disparities through community-focused initiatives. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 are available for projects targeting emergency medical equipment, maternal and pediatric health, food pantry support, and school health initiatives. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, schools, and governmental agencies. This funding aims to enhance health outcomes and foster collaboration among community partners, contributing to a healthier Arkansas.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on supporting organizations that empower communities through basic needs, income creation, and stable housing. By investing in health and job opportunities, they aim to enhance economic mobility for low- and moderate-income families. Their partnerships target vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable access to resources that foster community vitality and resilience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of stable housing as a foundation for personal and communal growth.

The Region 4 Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (SBTTAC) aims to empower small businesses by providing essential technical assistance and business development support. Funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation, this initiative will facilitate access to capital resources, connect businesses with key transportation agencies, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. The program is dedicated to minimizing barriers for small enterprises while fostering a robust support system in the transportation sector.

Public agencies and 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Arkansas preserving battlefields, viewsheds, and related historic structures can use this grant for planning, staff support, and preservation education efforts. Grants from the National Trust for Historic Preservation help launch or strengthen initiatives, including professional development, capacity building, and outreach to new audiences. Awards range from US $2,500 - US $10,000.

About Us

The Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA) is dedicated to promoting economic growth and community development across the state. Since 1985, ADFA has provided affordable financing options for business expansion, affordable housing, infrastructure, public health initiatives, and higher education funding.

Emergency Solutions Grant Program

The ESG program provides funding to:

• Engage homeless individuals and families living on the street;
• Improve the number and quality of emergency shelters for homeless individuals and families;
• Help operate these shelters;
• Provide essential services to shelter residents;
• Rapidly re-house homeless individuals and families; and
• Prevent families and individuals from becoming homeless.

Arbor Rising Grant, established in 2010, is a NYC-based nonprofit providing unrestricted multi-year funding and capacity-building support to nonprofits focused on alleviating poverty. The grant process occurs every three years, with the next round in 2025 being invitation-only. Eligible organizations must demonstrate high potential and effective leadership, typically operating on a modest budget. Arbor Rising prioritizes applicants from the NYC metro area while expanding to cover the lower 48 US states.

About CommonSpirit

A calling that defines and unites

At CommonSpirit Health, we passionately care for the most vulnerable, relentlessly innovate how and where healing can happen and believe in uniting to benefit the common good. Our expansive network spans diverse communities, uniquely positioning us to meet their changing needs, improve population health and help chart the path to health equity.

Our mission, vision and values inform every aspect of our work each day and remind us that we serve our patients, their families, our communities – and each other. Our community health, research and home health programs help us address the primary barriers to healthier communities.

Sponsorship requests

We’re proud to support nonprofits that expand access to care, advance health equity and healthier communities. Learn more about our priorities.

Supporting our communities

CommonSpirit Health and our local facilities support nonprofit organizations that share our mission, vision and values. We give priority to programs that improve access to care and promote health equity and healthier communities.

CommonSpirit is proud to support nonprofit organizations that help improve the health and well-being of our communities. Guided by our mission, vision and values, we prioritize projects that focus on advancing health equity, improving access to care and improving community wellness.

The Arkansas Grown School Garden of the Year Contest encourages K-12 schools to engage students in fresh food production and cultivation. Established in 2014, the contest offers six award categories, including Best Overall School Garden and Best Community Collaboration, with awards of up to $1,000. It aims to weave gardening into school culture, providing vital educational experiences and fostering community connections. Entries are accepted until June 27, 2025, promoting sustainable practices in Arkansas schools.

The J.R. Simplot Company Foundation Grant supports U.S. non-profit organizations focused on art, education, youth, community, and global food and agriculture. Established in 1929, the foundation is committed to enhancing community welfare through creative cultural endeavors, educational initiatives, health services, and youth programs. Applications are reviewed quarterly, ensuring a timely response to organizations dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) by NRCS provides year-round assistance to farmers and ranchers, promoting conservation practices on working lands. This program offers financial and technical help to improve water and air quality, conserve water resources, and enhance soil health. Historically underserved producers may qualify for higher payment rates. By developing tailored conservation plans, EQIP supports sustainable agricultural operations and environmental stewardship, ensuring a healthier ecosystem and increased resilience against climate challenges.

The EDA Austin FY 2016–FY 2019 Planning Program aims to enhance regional economic development through strategic planning and capacity building. It supports eligible organizations, including District Organizations and Indian Tribes, in creating Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS) that prioritize economic goals. The program also facilitates job creation and retention in economically distressed areas, promoting effective economic development initiatives, such as feasibility analyses and impact studies.

The Delta Dental of Arkansas Foundation Mini Grants support innovative community-based oral health initiatives across Arkansas. With grants up to $2,500, eligible non-profits can implement projects focused on providing oral health supplies, education, prevention, and treatment services. Applications are accepted year-round and evaluated bi-monthly, ensuring timely funding for impactful solutions in oral health. This initiative aims to enhance oral health awareness and access to care in local communities.

The Investor Education Grant Program in Arkansas provides funding between $2,500 and $5,000 to public schools and non-profit organizations for investment education aimed at students in grades 5-12. This initiative, managed by the Arkansas Securities Commissioner, supports educational programs about the securities industry and investment decision-making, enhancing financial literacy among young learners.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

Rural public entities and nonprofit organizations in Arkansas can use these grants to provide training, technical assistance, and other support for small rural businesses. USDA Rural Development funds projects such as business counseling, feasibility studies, leadership and entrepreneur training, rural business incubators, and community or technology-based economic development, with awards ranging from US $10,000 - US $500,000.

CommonSpirit Health offers the Community Health Improvement Grant to enhance health equity and service systems for underserved populations. Through collaborative efforts with 501(c)(3) organizations, this initiative provides financial support for essential health projects. Grant amounts range from $19,500 for small grants to $150,000 for standard grants, varying by hospital. Participating hospitals include those under Catholic Health Initiatives and Dignity Health, aimed at addressing significant community health needs.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.
• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

James Avery Corporate Grants support 501(c)(3) organizations located within 50 miles of a James Avery retail or corporate location. The foundation prioritizes projects that enrich community life, focusing on arts, veteran services, and wellness. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $25,000, with applications accepted once per year. Organizations must demonstrate community impact, effective management, and provide necessary documentation for eligibility. Note that certain types of funding, such as for individuals or for-profit organizations, are excluded.

The Patterson Foundation offers Assistance Dog Program Grants to support organizations providing service animals to veterans and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available for projects that expand capacity, personnel costs related to puppy training, and program support aimed at improving client experiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and can request grants up to $35,000 for capital projects or $10,000 for program support. Applications are accepted through a two-step process.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Arkansas support eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies affecting safe drinking water access. Funded by USDA Rural Development, the program provides grants for water transmission lines and new water sources, helping rural areas and towns restore clean water access after disasters like floods or droughts. Applications are accepted year-round, emphasizing partnerships with various entities to enhance community resilience.

The Arkansas Historic Marker Program Grants, initiated by the Division of Arkansas Heritage in 2017, aim to preserve and promote Arkansas's cultural and historic resources. By commemorating significant people, places, and events, the program fosters community engagement and educates the public about local history. Markers serve as lasting tributes to Arkansas's heritage, with a focus on both statewide and local histories, ensuring that the state's rich narrative is acknowledged and celebrated.

The Arkansas Heritage - AIE Mini-Grants program supports arts education by funding short-term artist residencies in pre K-12 schools and local arts agencies. Artists lead curriculum-based activities or professional development workshops, enhancing existing arts programs. Organizations must provide a 1:1 cash or in-kind match for the grant. However, funding cannot be used for deficits, entertainment expenses, or faculty salaries, ensuring that the grants focus on direct educational impact and community engagement.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Arkansas provides essential funding to develop vital community facilities in rural areas, benefiting populations of 20,000 or fewer. Eligible applicants include public bodies, non-profits, and federally recognized tribes. Grant assistance, which can cover up to 75% of project costs, supports the purchase, construction, and improvement of facilities such as healthcare centers, public safety buildings, and community support services. Year-round applications are welcomed for projects aimed at enhancing rural community infrastructure.

The Blue & You Foundation's Behavioral Health Grant aims to enhance mental health services in Arkansas. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $200,000 will support projects that improve access to care, raise awareness, and promote early intervention, among other priorities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and Arkansas-based entities, while ineligible groups include individuals and political organizations. The initiative seeks to foster innovation and preventative measures in behavioral healthcare.

The Conservation Partners Grant Program, funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, supports private landowners in implementing regenerative agriculture and conservation practices. By awarding competitive grants, the program facilitates technical assistance for developing management plans and best practices, enabling landowners to maximize the ecological benefits of their lands. This initiative is crucial for enhancing fish and wildlife habitats, addressing pressing conservation issues, and promoting sustainable land stewardship across the United States.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Arkansas seeking support for education, arts and culture, health, or human services projects can apply for Kerr Foundation Grants to fund capital, program, or operating needs. Grants from Kerr Foundation help Arkansas nonprofits strengthen services, and organizations investing in staff or organizational capacity may be eligible when aligned with these program areas.

Nonprofits, schools, government units, churches, and hospitals in Arkansas can receive up to US $10,000 to host professional artists for after-school or summer arts residencies. With a mission to strengthen arts in education, Arkansas Heritage supports programs in community centers, housing projects, juvenile facilities, social service centers, and other community-based organizations.