Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in California

The Koch, Delvin Dee Scholarship, funded by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers a $500 scholarship to a deserving Beatrice High School senior. Established in 1987, the foundation supports students with financial need who demonstrate good citizenship and a commitment to education. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and provide a Student Aid Report from FAFSA. This initiative promotes academic success and civic involvement within the community.

The City of Carlsbad offers Community Arts Grants aimed at fostering artistic and cultural activities in the region. These grants support diverse projects that promote inclusion and participation from various community groups. The funding initiative encourages collaboration among arts organizations, educational institutions, and professional artists to enhance the cultural landscape of Carlsbad. Grants are available to qualified nonprofits and educational entities, with a focus on projects that enrich the community's artistic experience.

The Peter S. Slomianyj Scholarship Fund offers financial assistance to Subway employees and their children who meet specific eligibility criteria, including a minimum of 500 work hours over the past year and a GPA of 2.0 in high school or 2.5 in college. Applications for this scholarship will be open from December 16, 2025, to March 3, 2026. It is part of a broader initiative by the North Carolina Community Foundation to support students pursuing education at various institutions.

The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) is launching a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) aimed at enhancing genomic research through the development and distribution of high-value resources. This initiative encourages collaborative efforts in genomic resource development and the integration of data science in clinical applications. While applications are not currently being accepted, prospective applicants are urged to prepare meaningful collaborations and projects ahead of the formal solicitation.

The Pearman Family Scholarship, offered by The San Diego Foundation, provides support to graduating high school seniors from San Diego County, particularly those in Southeastern San Diego and economically distressed areas. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.4, demonstrate financial need, and plan to enroll full-time in an accredited four-year university. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities and promote equity in higher education for deserving students.

The Nicholas Loren Feather Scholarship, provided by The San Diego Foundation, aims to support local students pursuing certificate or associate degrees at San Diego City College. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA, demonstrate financial need, and have resided in San Diego County for at least a year. This scholarship encourages accessible education, focusing on career-oriented pathways that enhance opportunities for students within the community college system.

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts administers over 160 scholarships. 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. Students who apply to the Scholarship program may be eligible for many of these funds. 

Scholarships are provided for one academic year and are not automatically renewed each year. You can reapply to our program every year you are going to attend college, and the application you submit that year will be considered for all scholarships for which you are eligible.

Loren and Norma Hill Scholarship Fund

To support students of color as defined by the Foundation, with a preference for residents of Hampden County.

Additional Guidelines

• Students can receive up to $3,000 in scholarships from the Community Foundation.
• Scholarship awards could impact the financial aid offered by a college, and students are advised to check with their college financial aid offices about this.
• Scholarships may be used to offset tuition, fees, room and board, and other items included as part of the cost for attending the institution. Some part and/or all the award could be considered taxable income. It is advisable students check with the college or tax accountant regarding this matter

The BK℠ Scholars Program, initiated by the Burger King Foundation, provides scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $60,000 to support high school seniors, restaurant team members, and their dependents in pursuing post-secondary education. Established in 2000, the program aims to empower individuals through education, encouraging leadership and civic engagement while also offering emergency assistance to employees facing hardships. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to education and community empowerment across North America.

The Bill Waite Scholarship, offered by The San Diego Foundation, supports high school seniors and college students who have participated in San Diego County sailing teams. Eligible applicants must enroll full-time at accredited colleges in the U.S. Minimum GPA requirements are 3.0 for high school seniors and 2.5 for college students. This award recognizes academic excellence and commitment to sailing, fostering opportunities for young sailors to pursue higher education.

The Bill and Barbara Berrier Scholarship Fund, managed by The San Diego Foundation, supports San Diego County students from the San Dieguito High School District pursuing careers in public service and education. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, demonstrate community involvement, and plan to enroll in a four-year university. This scholarship aims to empower students dedicated to strengthening their communities through educational and care professions.

The Kubota Hometown Proud Grant is a community initiative that will award ten $50,000 grants in 2025, comprising $25,000 in cash and $25,000 in equipment vouchers. Nonprofit organizations are encouraged to apply for projects that enhance their communities, with applications opening April 3 and closing May 9, 2025. Winners will be announced on September 1, 2025, supporting impactful local initiatives across Kubota's operating districts.

The Barta-Lehman Musical Scholarship, offered by The San Diego Foundation, supports talented musicians from San Diego County who are pursuing careers in music performance. Applicants must have lived in the area for at least a year and can include high school seniors, undergraduates, or graduate students. Preference is given to accomplished musicians specializing in string instruments, ensuring support for those who aspire to perform professionally. This scholarship nurtures the next generation of musical talent.

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.

About Patient Advocate Foundation

Patient Advocate Foundation is the nation’s most comprehensive nonprofit dedicated to helping patients navigate, access, and afford the care they need—while improving the healthcare system for all.

Who we are and our impact

Patient Advocate Foundation provides financial assistance to help patients afford treatment and cost of living needs, personalized case management to navigate complex healthcare and social needs challenges, and a wide array of resources to empower people to take charge of their health. Since our founding in 1996—and joining forces with the PAN Foundation in 2026—we have helped 3.8 million patients navigate and access care, granted over $7 billion in financial assistance, served 350,000 people through personalized case management and elevated the patient’s voice to drive improvements in the healthcare system.

Amyloidosis

Help with healthcare costs for amyloidosis

This TotalAssist fund helps you pay for out-of-pocket healthcare costs, including medication copays, coinsurance, and deductibles, health insurance premiums, and other expenses.

About the disease

Amyloidosis is characterized by a build-up in amyloid protein in specific organs or throughout the body. It is a rare disease that affects multiple systems. Subtypes include hereditary amyloidosis, light chain amyloidosis (AL amyloidosis), and amyloid A (AA) amyloidosis (secondary amyloidosis).

About Patient Advocate Foundation

Patient Advocate Foundation is the nation’s most comprehensive nonprofit dedicated to helping patients navigate, access, and afford the care they need—while improving the healthcare system for all.

Who we are and our impact

Patient Advocate Foundation provides financial assistance to help patients afford treatment and cost of living needs, personalized case management to navigate complex healthcare and social needs challenges, and a wide array of resources to empower people to take charge of their health. Since our founding in 1996—and joining forces with the PAN Foundation in 2026—we have helped 3.8 million patients navigate and access care, granted over $7 billion in financial assistance, served 350,000 people through personalized case management and elevated the patient’s voice to drive improvements in the healthcare system.

Cushing’s disease or syndrome

Help with healthcare costs for Cushing's disease or syndrome

This TotalAssist fund helps you pay for out-of-pocket healthcare costs, including medication copays, coinsurance, and deductibles, health insurance premiums, and other expenses.

About the disease

Cushing’s Disease or Syndrome, also known as Cushing’s Syndrome, hypercortisolism and hyperadrenalism, is a condition where the pituitary gland releases high levels of the hormone cortisol. It is a rare disease that affects the endocrine system.

The Austin Bice Memorial Scholarship, administered by the San Diego Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors in San Diego County who will enroll full-time at San Diego State University. Eligible candidates must have participated in a varsity sport for at least one year, maintained a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0, and be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. This scholarship recognizes the dedication of student-athletes committed to their academic and athletic pursuits.

The Amy E. Johnson Memorial Scholarship, provided by The San Diego Foundation, aims to support residents of San Diego County pursuing careers in nutrition, dietetics, or clinical healthcare. Eligible candidates include high school seniors, community college students, and four-year university students who maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship seeks to cultivate future healthcare professionals dedicated to enhancing community health and wellness in the region.

The M.C. Madhavan World Affairs Council Scholarship, funded by The San Diego Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors from San Diego County who plan to enroll full-time at a community college in the U.S. Eligible students must demonstrate a GPA of 3.0 or higher, show interest in foreign policy and international relations, and have financial need. Community service is also a key consideration, encouraging students to engage with global challenges.

The Luis Arreola Memorial Scholarship, provided by the San Diego Foundation, supports graduating seniors from the Sweetwater Union High School District pursuing post-secondary education in the U.S. Eligible students can enroll at accredited four-year universities, community colleges, or licensed career/technical schools. This scholarship honors resilience, dedication, and leadership, while prioritizing those with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and a commitment to community service.

The CA-AFCS-SD/San Diego Scholarship Fund, supported by The San Diego Foundation, provides financial assistance to California students pursuing degrees in Family and Consumer Sciences. This scholarship prioritizes applicants who have lived in San Diego County for at least one year and covers various majors such as Nutrition and Hospitality. Eligible candidates include high school seniors and college students, with awards adjusted based on enrollment status at accredited institutions.

The CA-AFCS-SD/Margaret R. Hollenbeck Scholarship Fund, managed by The San Diego Foundation, provides financial support to California students pursuing degrees in Family and Consumer Sciences. Priority is given to applicants who have lived in San Diego County for at least one year. Eligible fields include Food Sciences, Dietetics, Nutrition, and related areas. Students must enroll in accredited U.S. institutions and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 to qualify for this scholarship.

The CA-AFCS-SD/Henry R. Hague, J.D. Scholarship Fund, administered by The San Diego Foundation, supports California students pursuing degrees in Family and Consumer Sciences. Priority is given to applicants with at least one year of residency in San Diego County. Eligible majors include Food Sciences, Nutrition, and Family Development. Recipients can be high school seniors, college, or graduate students enrolled in accredited institutions. Full-time enrollment is required for undergraduates, while graduates can be part-time.

The CA-AFCS-SD/Ellen Ferguson Snyder Scholarship Fund, managed by The San Diego Foundation, aims to support California students pursuing studies in Family and Consumer Sciences. Priority is given to residents of San Diego County. Eligible majors include Culinary Arts, Nutrition, and Fashion Design, among others. Applicants must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher and be enrolled in accredited institutions. This scholarship fosters educational opportunities for aspiring students in essential fields.

The Brian Forbes Memorial Scholarship, offered by The San Diego Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors in San Diego County who excel academically and athletically. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, participate in varsity sports for at least two years, and plan to enroll at a University of California campus in the fall. This scholarship honors student-athletes who balance their academic pursuits with their commitment to sports, promoting well-rounded individuals in higher education.

The Boulé Education Initiative Scholarship, offered by The San Diego Foundation, supports students in San Diego County who exhibit academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to community service. Eligible candidates include high school seniors and community college transfer students with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and at least 80% attendance at enrichment programs. The scholarship aims to empower students who demonstrate both academic success and active engagement in their communities, addressing the critical need for educational support.

The CDC's initiative, 'Holistic and Evidence-Informed Wellness for STI Prevention', addresses the significant public health burden of STIs in the U.S. by promoting a comprehensive approach that emphasizes healthy choices and relationships. By supporting a coalition of sexual health experts, the program aims to enhance STI prevention through strategic resource allocation and the dissemination of high-quality, evidence-based materials, targeting priority groups most affected by STIs. This holistic strategy seeks to reduce STI morbidity and improve overall sexual health.

The Craig Newmark Philanthropies Grants, established in partnership with the Bob Woodruff Foundation, aim to support military and veteran communities through funding initiatives that enhance health and well-being. Since 2020, this program has positively impacted over 1.6 million veterans, service members, and their families. The grants focus on improving health determinants, increasing access to healthcare, and facilitating veterans' successful transitions to civilian life.