Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in California

The Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Program aims to enhance the research capabilities of individuals with advanced degrees, focusing on disability and rehabilitation research related to employment outcomes. Funded by the US HHS Administration for Community Living, this grant offers a 36-month project period, supporting multidisciplinary training for researchers, including those with disabilities, to contribute to high-quality research in the field.

The Henrietta Hutton Research Grant, established in 1964 in memory of a notable University of Oxford student, provides up to three grants of £500 each year. This grant supports undergraduate and Masters students conducting overseas field research lasting over four weeks. Emphasis is placed on independent projects that may not be related to academic studies, with a preference for research that includes geographical, social, or environmental elements.

The CSA Angels Project, initiated in 2006, provides critical conservation and curatorial support to small institutions with costume collections in proximity to the CSA National Symposium. Each year, one grant is awarded to enhance collection care, encourage volunteer engagement, and ensure preservation of these important cultural artifacts. Institutions must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being a non-profit organization with a limited budget and staff, to qualify for this valuable assistance and training opportunity.

The Don E. & Charlotte Williams Scholarship, administered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, offers financial support to students pursuing higher education, including community colleges and trade schools. Annually, it provides up to $3,500 for full-time students and $75 per semester hour for part-time students. This need-based scholarship is renewable for up to four years, contingent on maintaining a 2.0 GPA and fulfilling other criteria, prioritizing applicants who are descendants of former employees of the Don E. Williams Company.

The Amber Huber Memorial Scholarship honors a dedicated athlete from Byron High School, supporting students who embody hard work and competitive spirit. This scholarship is available to students striving to achieve their athletic goals, reflecting Amber's legacy. It is renewable for four years, ensuring continued support for those who meet the criteria. Academic performance will be moderately considered in the selection process, fostering the development of future leaders in athletics.

The Rhoden Fellowship, supported by ESPN and administered by the United Negro College Fund, is a year-long program designed to empower students from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Participants will serve as correspondents, creating multimedia content for Andscape, covering major sports events, and producing a bi-weekly podcast. This opportunity not only fosters journalistic skills but also promotes engagement with the HBCU community, paving the way for future leaders in journalism.

Grand Rapids Community Foundation

Connecting people, passion and resources

The Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that connects people, passion and resources. With our partners, the Community Foundation uses the tools of philanthropy to find solutions to pressing issues. We provide grants to support the work of nonprofits, scholarships to local students and other forms of support to communities working to eliminate barriers to opportunity, prosperity and belonging.

Our Mission is to build and manage our community’s permanent endowment and lead the community to strengthen the lives of its people.

We envision a magnetic and interconnected West Michigan community.

Integrity, Excellence, Inclusion, Sustainability and Bold Aspirations

Give and Receive Openly, Build Trust with Each Other, Create Brave and Safe Space, Embrace Vulnerability, Accountability

Our North Star

For West Michigan to grow and prosper, we must make sure that everyone can apply their talents and creativity to fuel our future. It is only by connecting across perspectives and overcoming inequities that we can build and sustain an inclusive economy and thriving community.

Opportunities for students

Apply for scholarships to support your ambitions

Each year Grand Rapids Community Foundation supports hundreds of students on their college or career training journeys. We are excited to remove barriers to academic success so that students like you can pursue what you're passionate about.

Scholarship Fund Details

Support for West Michigan Students

Attending college or trade school increases opportunity and opens doors to careers. Donor partners who establish a scholarship fund give students a boost on their path to higher education. Students who complete the general scholarship application are considered for these scholarships.

Open to students who are residents of Kent County. Preference to Challenge Scholar students through 2032.

The Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives Program (DBI) for Fiscal Year 2026, administered by the USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, invites applications from existing initiatives to support the dairy industry. With approximately $12.65 million available, the program aims to diversify dairy markets, enhance farmer income, and promote regional milk production. Funding will prioritize equipment and infrastructure projects, which are vital for strengthening the capacity of dairy businesses and fostering innovation in processing and marketing.

The Liz Colantuono & Mark Sanz Endowment Scholarship, offered by the United Negro College Fund, provides need-based financial support to Native American students and adult refugees enrolled or accepted at accredited U.S. four-year institutions. With a focus on those facing financial challenges, this scholarship aims to empower students who demonstrate a commitment to education in STEM, education, accounting, or journalism, thereby fostering future leaders in these fields.

The Cancer Care Specialists of Illinois Scholarship offers financial assistance for tuition to high school seniors and healthcare professionals in oncology/hematology within Central and Southern Illinois. The scholarship supports educational pursuits and professional development in these fields. Applications are accepted monthly, with a deadline for 2025 set for December 1st. Eligible candidates must maintain a GPA of 3.0 and reside in specific counties, ensuring support for local talent in healthcare.

The Thomas J Nelson Sr Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, honors the legacy of Tom Nelson, a dedicated community member. This scholarship is available to graduating seniors or past graduates from Chelan, Douglas, or Okanogan counties, who demonstrate financial need and plan to pursue higher education. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 for four-year programs or 2.5 for community colleges and trade schools, reflecting Tom's commitment to educational support.

The Hilda M. Hill Memorial Vocational/Technical Scholarship, offered by the Four County Community Foundation, supports seniors and recent graduates from Capac, Almont, and Imlay City pursuing vocational or technical programs. Eligible students must have a minimum GPA of 1.50 and can receive up to two awards, with financial need considered. Award recipients will be celebrated at the Foundation's Scholarship Celebration in May, highlighting the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the community.

The MI Association of Professional Insurance Agents Scholarship, offered by the Four County Community Foundation, supports seniors and recent graduates in Michigan planning to pursue a major in Risk Management/Insurance. Award recipients will be honored at the Foundation's Scholarship Celebration in May and announced at local high school events. Up to four awards are available, and students must submit an essay for consideration, reinforcing the Foundation's commitment to education and community development.

The Vets Serving Vets Scholarship, established by North Central Washington Vets Serving Vets through the Community Foundation of NCW, supports residents of Chelan and Douglas counties who have been honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces. This scholarship is aimed at individuals pursuing full-time college education, helping them achieve their academic goals while honoring their service. Since its inception in 2017, it has played a vital role in assisting veterans in their educational journeys.

The Water Resources Research Act Program National Competitive Grants FY2026, administered by the U.S. Geological Survey, aims to support innovative research initiatives at Water Resources Research Institutes across the U.S. and its territories. These grants facilitate essential studies on water management, addressing critical water resource challenges while promoting collaboration among states. This program seeks to enhance the understanding of water issues, ultimately contributing to sustainable management practices and informed decision-making in water resource policy.

The Catherine Pierce Scholarship, established by the United Negro College Fund, aims to support students pursuing degrees in the Arts and Art History. This scholarship reflects a commitment to fostering talent and leadership in creative fields. Eligible candidates must be enrolled full-time at an accredited U.S. institution and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. Through this initiative, UNCF continues its mission to empower minority students and promote diversity in higher education.

The Wenatchee Valley Street Rods Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, aims to support students pursuing education in automotive fields or health sciences at Wenatchee Valley College. Eligible applicants include high school seniors from Chelan County or Eastmont School District, as well as current students in medically related programs. Applicants must demonstrate good citizenship and criminal record eligibility. This scholarship can be renewed with reapplication.

The Women’s Service League of North Central Washington Scholarship, established in 2013, aims to support female students from various high schools in the region. This scholarship prioritizes applicants who demonstrate community involvement, leadership skills, and a minimum GPA of 2.75. Special consideration is given to those who have faced significant challenges and to children or grandchildren of League members, fostering a commitment to volunteerism and community improvement.

The Carolyn Gallmeyer Scholarship, provided by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports students from Kent County pursuing college or career training. This scholarship aims to remove barriers to education, empowering students to achieve their aspirations. With awards typically ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, it directly contributes to tuition and essential costs. The foundation emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to thrive in their academic journeys.

The Shasta Chapter of the California Native Plant Society offers the Oak Tree Grant Program to promote awareness of California's native plants and habitats. This program provides financial or material support for various projects, including gardening, landscaping, and educational initiatives. Open to the public in Shasta and surrounding counties, applications can be submitted year-round, encouraging community engagement and environmental stewardship.

The William Coon Jr. Scholarship, offered by the USACFA, provides four $2,500 awards annually for students with cystic fibrosis pursuing degrees in various fields. Applications require transcripts, proof of enrollment, and essays, focusing on financial need and academic performance. Winners receive full or half awards based on their enrollment status. This scholarship honors Bill Coon Jr.'s legacy, supporting individuals facing similar health challenges and promoting their educational aspirations.

The What’s Your Gap Grant, provided by BreatheStrong CF in partnership with the Closing the Gap Foundation, supports teens and adults living with cystic fibrosis. This grant alleviates financial barriers, allowing recipients to pursue health and wellness opportunities tailored to their individual goals. It aims to empower applicants who envision a healthier lifestyle but face challenges in achieving it, serving as a catalyst for positive change in their lives.

The Pediatric Rheumatology Symposium (PRSYM) Abstract Award supports students and residents attending the ACR’s Pediatric Rheumatology Symposium, providing essential clinical insights into pediatric rheumatic diseases. This opportunity encourages medical students and residents to engage in pioneering research, enhancing their understanding and management of these conditions. Applicants must be authors of accepted abstracts and demonstrate significant contributions to their work. This award fosters the next generation of healthcare professionals in pediatric rheumatology.

The Paul Drury Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Paul Drury, who inspired many while living with cystic fibrosis. This scholarship is aimed at siblings and children of individuals with CF, recognizing the crucial support family members provide. Eligible applicants must have a family member with CF, demonstrate academic achievement, and be enrolled in an educational program. This initiative highlights the importance of family in managing the challenges posed by cystic fibrosis.

The Dollie Lane Harp Memorial Scholarship Fund for Classical Music, established by Ruth Harp Gibson, honors her mother’s legacy through music. This scholarship is available for students majoring in classical music at accredited U.S. universities or conservatories. Eligible candidates include graduating seniors from specific Texas high schools who have participated in music during their studies. Awards range from $500 to over $5,000, with payments made directly to educational institutions.

The Tillie Odam Memorial Scholarship, established by John Odam in honor of his mother, supports Big Country high school seniors and alumni pursuing Health Information Technology or Allied Health programs. This scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, provides financial assistance to students enrolling in accredited vocational or college programs. Awards range from $500 to over $5,000, with payments sent directly to educational institutions for the fall and spring semesters.

The Hofma Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports local high school graduates motivated to pursue college education. This competitive scholarship considers financial need, academic achievement, and personal goals. Applicants can submit a single application for multiple scholarships, simplifying the process. Established by Edward and Elizabeth Hofma, who significantly contributed to the community, the scholarship honors their legacy and commitment to education and environmental efforts.