Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in California

The Dorothy Stewart Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Brown County Community Foundation, aims to foster interest in public and environmental affairs. It provides financial support to graduates of Brown County High School or G.E.D. recipients who demonstrate exceptional citizenship and community involvement. Eligible candidates must pursue a degree in relevant fields, ensuring that the scholarship contributes to the development of future leaders in these critical areas.

The United Nations Association of Connecticut Scholarship, managed by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, provides financial support ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 for current high school students in Connecticut. Eligible applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, engage in international issues, participate in Model UN or similar programs, and study a foreign language. This initiative aims to empower students committed to global citizenship while ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities.

The Harry D. Poling Scholarship, managed by the Brown County Community Foundation, supports current and former 4-H members pursuing higher education or vocational training. Established to assist students from Brown County, this scholarship prioritizes those seeking CDL or vocational training, emphasizing financial need. Since 1993, the Foundation has focused on educational initiatives, providing numerous scholarships to local graduates and working closely with The Lilly Endowment Inc. for enhanced educational opportunities.

The Gunvor Lund Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, awards between $500 and $2,000 to students from Southeastern Connecticut pursuing studies in engineering or the sciences. Since 1983, over $11.9 million has been distributed through various funds to support students in their educational journeys. Scholarship awards are paid directly to colleges by August 1, aiding students in achieving their academic and career goals.

The Crown Point Community Foundation Scholarships support graduating high school seniors, college students, and adult learners from Crown Point, Winfield, Cedar Lake, or Lowell. With over 80 scholarship funds established by local donors, the foundation ensures financial assistance is tailored to community needs. Eligible applicants may attend colleges, universities, or vocational schools, but the scholarships are non-renewable. This initiative enriches the quality of life in South Lake County by maximizing charitable giving.

Connecting Passion to Purpose

Marshall County Community Foundation is a public charity where local roots help great ideas take flight. We are community-minded partners and trusted investors. We help shape the vision for Marshall County. Our passion is to connect caring people with opportunities to make an impact.

Our mission is to serve all of Marshall county — its people and its future — by growing and managing endowment funding and fostering philanthropy.

Investing in the Scholars of 
Marshall County

Marshall County Community Foundation administers a number of scholarships, from traditional awards for graduating seniors to those geared towards current students, professionals, and other special circumstances.

Each scholarship has its own application guidelines, deadlines, and application process, so please be sure to read the instructions of the scholarship you’re applying for carefully.

All Marshall County Scholarships

We administer a number of scholarships, which range from the traditional academic and athletic awards to corporate and special circumstances offerings. These scholarships are open to all residents of Marshall County, as long as other requirements are met.

Applying for a scholarship is free, so we invite you to spend some time finding opportunities for which you are a good fit. You can learn more about each scholarship by clicking on each of the below scholarship titles.

This scholarship will be awarded annually to one or more graduating seniors in Marshall County or St. Joseph County who are planning to pursue a course of study in the production of performing arts.

The Charles and Marjorie Quickle Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, supports South Lake County residents pursuing degrees in divinity, theology, or religious ministry. This scholarship is open to graduating high school seniors, college students, and adult learners, with the ability to reapply annually. It aims to enhance educational opportunities while fostering community growth and engagement.

The Melvin & Lena Oneto Scholarship, funded by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, provides $2,500 for students pursuing education in agriculture. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate full-time enrollment at a four-year college. Participation in school and community activities is required. This scholarship aims to support students from various Elk Grove High Schools, fostering academic and community engagement.

The Dr. Kenneth F. Swaiman Medical Student Scholarship, offered by the Child Neurology Foundation, honors Dr. Swaiman's legacy in child neurology. This $6,000 scholarship supports three U.S. or Canadian medical students annually, who are interested in child neurology research. Recipients will receive travel funding to attend the Child Neurology Society meeting. Eligible students must be in their second or third year and conduct research under a child neurologist's guidance.

Founded in 2016, this program supports nonfiction filmmakers or filmmaking teams working on their first or second feature-length documentary.

In this year-long program, 9 filmmakers will receive:

• $40,000 USD in grant funding for the production of their feature-length film
• Mentorship with Chicken & Egg Films team members
• Two creative retreats focused on career building and creative development
• Travel stipend for director and producer upon acceptance to a forum or market during program year
• Tailored industry meetings and funder connections
• Peer support from their cohort

You do not need a fiscal sponsor to apply for the (Egg)celerator Lab. However, if you are selected for the Lab, you must secure a US fiscal sponsor, or be a 501(c)(3), to receive the funds. If granted, we can help advise on finding a fiscal sponsor. 

The Alvin & Kathryn Schmidt Scholarship, managed by the Crown Point Community Foundation, supports adult learners, particularly women aged 21 and older returning to education. This non-renewable scholarship emphasizes the importance of education for residents of Crown Point, IN, and aims to enhance their quality of life by providing essential financial assistance. The scholarship committee evaluates applications based on criteria set by generous community donors, ensuring tailored support for individual needs.

The Mary & Al Tsukamoto Memorial Scholarship aims to foster educational opportunities through grants and scholarships, focusing on community needs. It offers two scholarships of $1,500 each, requiring applicants to submit a 500-word essay on the phrase 'Justice for All' and its impact on their family. Eligibility includes a minimum GPA of 3.0 and full-time student status, with special consideration for immigrant families. Participation in community activities is required, while school activity involvement is not.

The McMichael Family Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, supports women over 21 who are residents of Crown Point, IN. This non-renewable scholarship is designed for college students and adult learners, providing financial assistance to help meet various educational needs. The foundation manages over 80 scholarship funds, tailoring support to the specific criteria set by generous donors, thereby enriching the quality of life in South Lake County.

The Marie K. Coleman Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, aims to support students pursuing educational opportunities. This scholarship awards $2,000 to eligible candidates who demonstrate financial need and hold a minimum GPA of 2.5. Priority is given to first-generation college students, particularly those interested in business or accounting. Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation and participate in school and community activities.

The Yip Harburg Foundation Grant supports projects that promote economic and social justice through grants and scholarships. This foundation honors the legacy of E.Y. "Yip" Harburg by funding theater programs that convey socially responsible messages. Grants range from $500 to $5,000 and are available to registered 501c3 organizations. Applications are reviewed quarterly, so interested parties should ensure their projects align with the foundation's mission.

The Sociological Initiatives Foundation Grant supports research linking social action to addressing systemic inequalities in the U.S., funding projects that tackle racism, classism, and human rights violations. It prioritizes initiatives that foster partnerships between academia and community organizations, aiming to enhance advocacy and public knowledge. Grants typically range from $15 to $25,000, emphasizing research with tangible community impacts rather than mere reporting. The Foundation seeks projects that can fundamentally change societal structures and improve equity.

The Lois Lenski Covey Foundation offers Literacy Program Grants aimed at advancing literacy and fostering a love of reading among underserved children. Grants support innovative programs in regions including Baltimore, New York City, and San Francisco, with amounts ranging from $2,000 to $10,000. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities and schools. The foundation encourages new ideas and partnerships, prioritizing programs that engage children through regular interaction with skilled staff.

Dean and Vay Lousberg Scholarship

The Dean and Vay Lousberg Scholarship Fund was established to help aid in the financing of continuing education for graduating students from Northeastern Colorado high schools.

Scholarship amount:

• $2,000

Number of awards:

• 3

Scholarship awards are one-time awards. The amount awarded to a selected recipient may be used for the cost of attendance. All scholarships will be paid directly to the recipient’s school and must be used for the upcoming academic year. Award disbursement is contingent upon the outside scholarship policies of a recipient’s college or university.

The Citizens 1st Bank/Perkins Family Foundation State Employees' Children's Scholarship, managed by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports students from Cherokee, Nacogdoches, or Smith County. Eligible candidates must be graduating seniors or current college students and are required to demonstrate financial need through FASFA. This scholarship reflects a commitment to education, enabling young Texans to pursue their academic dreams at any college in the United States.

About the Emporia Community Foundation

Our Mission

To connect caring people with causes that build stronger communities within the Emporia area which includes Chase, Coffey, Greenwood, Lyon, Morris, Osage and Wabaunsee counties.

Reese Naylor Joy Fund

The purpose of the Reese Naylor Joy Fund is to provide funds to qualified individuals with a chronic or terminal illness to cover expenses of an event or experience that will bring joy and happiness to the child and their family. Grant requests will be considered for children up to the age of 21.

The Boesl-Gentry Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, aims to support graduating high school seniors from specific schools pursuing studies in Ministry or related fields. This $1,200 scholarship requires an essay and a letter of recommendation. Eligible students must apply to accredited post-secondary institutions and provide transcripts. The foundation is committed to enhancing community quality of life through various initiatives, underscoring values of integrity, respect, leadership, and vision.

The Chris Bell Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides a $3,000 scholarship for graduating high school seniors from Springfield public schools. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.8 or higher and an ACT score of 26 or above, along with a transcript. A compelling essay and a letter of recommendation are also required. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing higher education at accredited four-year colleges or universities.

About the Emporia Community Foundation

Our Mission

To connect caring people with causes that build stronger communities within the Emporia area which includes Chase, Coffey, Greenwood, Lyon, Morris, Osage and Wabaunsee counties.

Choose How You Respond Fund (in memory of Dr. Bryan Douglas) 

The purpose of the Choose How You Respond Fund is to provide funds to qualified individuals to cover expenses related to the treatment of cancer.

American Gastroenterological Association

The American Gastroenterological Association is the trusted voice of the GI community. Founded in 1897, AGA represents members from around the globe who are involved in all aspects of the science, practice, and advancement of gastroenterology. The AGA Institute administers the practice, research, and educational programs of the organization.

AGA-Takeda Pharmaceuticals Research Scholar Award in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

This award provides funding for three years to early-career faculty (i.e., investigator, instructor, research associate or equivalent) working toward an independent career in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) research.

Objective

The objective of the AGA Research Foundation Research Scholar Award (RSA) is to support early-career investigators working toward independent and productive research careers in digestive diseases by ensuring that a major proportion of their time is protected for mentored research (i.e., a minimum of 50 percent effort dedicated to the proposed project). This award will support junior faculty (not fellows) who have demonstrated exceptional promise and have some record of accomplishment in research pertaining to inflammatory bowel disease.

Review all of the benefits AGA Research Scholar Award recipients are entitled to on the award policies page.

Application Requirements

• Maintain AGA membership throughout the three-year duration of the award.

• Applicants must self-assign their proposal to one of the following categories:
  • Clinical: Research involving direct contact with human subjects or using clinical data to address problems related to the prevention, diagnosis, treatment or outcome of human diseases (e.g., clinical epidemiology). This category also includes research related to health care delivery (e.g., health services, health IT).
  • Basic/Translational: Research with a primary goal of understanding basic biology or disease mechanisms. This category can involve animal subjects, cell culture, human biospecimens or human data as resources for laboratory- or informatics-based investigation.

• Resources allocated through this award are intended to support the career development of the applicant. The applicant must allocate a minimum of 50 percent effort to the proposed project.

• Applicants are required to have a sponsor and mentor for the award; one individual may serve in the capacity of both positions. A sponsor (typically a division chief or department chair) is an individual who takes responsibility for the quality assessment of the proposed research project, the quality of the research environment within which the project will be undertaken, and the experience and expertise of the principal investigator and other key researchers involved. A mentor will supervise the principal investigator’s research activities ensuring timelines and deliverables and will work with the applicant to create a research career development plan.

• The intent of this award is to foster the scientific independence of junior investigators. Applicants whose research activities become incorporated into a grant application from a senior mentor will need to delineate clearly the scientific and experimental distinctions between their respective programs. This requirement applies both to pending applications submitted prior to review of this award and to applications submitted during the term of the RSA. It must also be clearly stated how the work submitted by the applicant is that of the applicant and not that of the senior mentor(s).

• A complete research facilities and resources form must be submitted.

• Biographical sketches for the applicant, mentor and other key personnel must be submitted.

• Applicants resubmitting a revised application from a prior cycle must include a resubmission report describing responses to reviewer feedback and other major changes since the most recent past submission.

• Upon notification of receipt of this award, the recipient must provide institutional approval from the appropriate committee(s) for use of human subjects or animals. If approval is not necessary, then the recipient must provide documentation from the appropriate regulatory committee.

• Recipients must submit scientific and financial progress reports to AGA annually and final reports 60 days after the end date of the award period. Report templates and instructions are provided to awardees at the time of acceptance. Second and third year funding are contingent upon the submission and accuracy of this documentation.

• All publications, presentations, abstracts, and patent applications arising from work funded by this program must acknowledge support of the AGA–Takeda Pharmaceuticals Research Scholar Award in Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

• Additional pre-award policies are available on the Research Award Policies page.

Award Overlap

• At the time of application submission, applicants may not hold, or have held, an NIH K01, K08, K23, K99, R00, R01, R21, R29, Veterans Affairs Career Development Award or any award with similar objectives from non-federal sources (e.g., the American Liver Foundation, Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation).

• Applicants who have held a K12 or KL2 in the past are eligible to apply. Applicants with an active K12 or KL2 may apply in the final year of their active K12 or KL2 so long as the award will end before the Research Scholar Award term begins.

• If a applicant is granted the award and notified of a comparable award from another agency prior to the first payment of this award, then the recipient must select one of the two awards (i.e., the recipient may not retain both awards).

• If the recipient is notified that a comparable award has been granted after the first payment of this award, then the recipient may retain up to 50 percent of the remainder of his or her AGA award. AGA must be notified by the recipient via email within two weeks of receiving notification of additional funding.

The Liv A Life of Love Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, aims to support high school seniors from various local schools who are pursuing a major in Health Science. With a scholarship amount of $1,200, applicants must demonstrate community service involvement, submit an essay, and provide a GPA between 2.5 and 3.0 along with financial need documentation. This initiative empowers students to further their education while contributing positively to their communities.

The U.S. Air Force Academy Association & Foundation presents the Young Alumni Excellence Award to honor recent graduates who exemplify leadership, service, and excellence. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant professional or philanthropic contributions within 0 to 15 years of graduation. Nominees must maintain high standards of integrity and character, reflecting the prestigious values of the Air Force Academy while positively impacting their communities.

The American Musicological Society (AMS) provides publication subventions to support music scholarship. With an annual budget of approximately $80,000, these funds assist institutions and individuals, particularly those in the Coalition of Music Organizations, in covering publication costs and enhancing accessibility. Grants are available for various formats including books and articles, promoting diversity in music studies and ensuring that scholarly works can reach a wider audience.