Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

The Jean Griswold Foundation

The Jean Griswold Foundation (JGF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Caregivers through educational opportunities and scholarships. 

Our Mission

The mission of the Jean Griswold Foundation is to support Caregivers by providing educational scholarships* to enable them to further their training, enhance their careers, and better assist the clients they serve.

By offering educational scholarships*, our Foundation will not only make a positive impact on the Caregivers themselves, but also the clients they assist and the home healthcare agencies where they are employed, as well as help advance the overarching home-care industry.

Scholarships will be paid directly to the federally accredited educational institutions of the winning Scholars’ choosing.

Empowering Caregivers Through Education

The Jean Griswold Foundation Scholarship Program awards scholarships to deserving Caregivers who wish to further their education in a care-related field. Applicants do not have to be associated with Griswold in any way, and the funds will be paid directly to the institution where the caregiver will be receiving education.  

Our Winter 2026 Scholarship Application period is now open! Applications will be accepted until 11:59pm ET August 31, 2026. Join our email list to get the first notice of all Scholarship happenings.  

Where would we be without Caregivers? 

Their selflessness is astounding, yet they are often overlooked and underappreciated. 

The Jean Griswold Foundation is dedicated to supporting Caregivers, the backbone of the care industry. We provide educational scholarships so Care Professionals can further their training, enhance their skills, elevate their careers, and better assist the people they serve.

George Sherman Scholarship

Applicants must be pursuing a two- or four- year degree or advanced education and/or training in the skilled trades and show evidence of involvement in co or extra-curricular activities or volunteerism related to the applicant’s field of interest. Transcripts and scores are requested, but not necessarily a determining factor.

The Craft Artists Emergency Relief Grant provides $3,000 to U.S.-based individual craft artists aged 18 and older who are facing recent, unforeseen emergencies. Established by the Craft Emergency Relief Fund (CERF+) in 1985, this grant aims to empower artists during critical times, allowing them to use the funds as needed for recovery. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, ensuring timely support for artists in distress.

Opera Grants for Women Composers: Discovery Grants support the creation of new operas by women composers, promoting gender parity and diversity in the field. These grants assist composers in exploring opera as an art form, funding activities like libretto readings and workshops. OPERA America is committed to enhancing the operatic repertoire with diverse perspectives, and these grants are made possible through the support of the Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Rocket Scholars Foundation Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the parents and alumni of Reeths Puffer Schools, who established the Rocket Scholars Foundation Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. The Rocket Scholars Foundation was created by parents and alumni with two purposes in mind:

• To continue to foster within the school system a culture of rigorous academic achievement for all students and
• To offer those students who have demonstrated high achievement, scholarships to help defray the increasingly expensive tuition costs at colleges, universities and accredited post-secondary vocational and technical schools.

About

Central Carolina Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps generous people give back to the Midlands of South Carolina in ways that matter. Since 1984, we’ve been a trusted partner, helping individuals, families, and businesses make smart, meaningful contributions that support local nonprofits, scholarships, and community projects.

Junior League of Columbia Scholarship ($3,000)

The Junior League of Columbia created this non-renewable scholarship to assist students who attended one of the elementary schools located in Richland School District One in Columbia, SC. 

The Arthritis Foundation's Clinical Fellowship RFP aims to address the rheumatology workforce shortage by inviting applications from institutions with clinical training programs. It encourages innovative training approaches to prepare future rheumatologists for the evolving needs of the arthritis community. Funding includes $150,000 for a two-year adult fellowship, $225,000 for a three-year pediatric fellowship, and $300,000 for a four-year Med-Peds fellowship, all designed to enhance access to specialized care.

Kari Hamaker Performing Arts Scholarship

A scholarship awarded to a student in Marshall, Olivet or the surrounding area, during school or upon graduation, seeking a degree in Performing Arts or for additional enrichment opportunities in performing arts. Applicants must demonstrate financial need. GPA is not a qualifying factor; however, transcripts and test scores are required. Students who receive this scholarship are encouraged to apply for further support in subsequent years.

The AHRF Birtman Grant provides up to $75,000 for one year of research focused on hearing and balance disorders related to the inner ear. This grant encourages both basic and clinical studies, covering direct costs such as staff salaries and research equipment. Applicants must hold relevant advanced degrees and be affiliated with a U.S. university or hospital. An alternative budget option of $50,000 is available, enhancing eligibility for Regular grants if not awarded the Birtman Grant.

The AED Grant Program, run by the Hopey’s Heart Foundation, aims to enhance sports safety by providing life-saving AEDs to eligible schools and recreational centers. Although the program is currently closed, it will reopen for applications in April 2026. The Foundation focuses on preventing Sudden Cardiac Arrest among student athletes through education and medical equipment. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) entities and government bodies, ensuring broader access to vital resources for sports safety.

The Genentech Foundation supports innovative projects that address systemic inequities in healthcare. They fund tax-exempt organizations, including public charities and governmental entities, located in the U.S. Grant requests must be submitted at least 60 days before the project start date. Notably, projects must align with Genentech's commitment to advancing health equity and diversity in the medical workforce. Applications for funding will be accepted starting January 2, 2026, after a temporary closure.

Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida connects people who care with causes that matter. Since 1964, we have served the citizens of Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Clay, and Putnam counties through a range of charitable and civic activities, while helping individual donors achieve their philanthropic goals. We believe in Giving Back. Forever Forward.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous donors, The Community Foundation offers several scholarships each year that benefit students in Northeast Florida who are seeking post-secondary degrees.

Bernie G. Yvon Memorial Fund Scholarship

For High School Seniors & College Students in The Theatre/Performing Arts

The purpose of the fund is to perpetuate the legacy of Bernie G. Yvon by supporting students pursuing study in the Theatre/Performing Arts with need-based scholarships. In this tenth year (2026), amounts up to $2000 each will be available from contributions to the fund via The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida. In selecting the successful candidate(s), the review committee will consider the following:

• Knowledge of Bernie G. Yvon
• Theatre/Performing Arts potential and past experiences
• Financial need
• Academic record
• Two letters of recommendation
• GPA

The Eastman Departmental Residency and Colloquium Grant provides funding to support activities aligned with the mission of the Institute for Music Leadership (IML). Each academic department can apply for up to $1500 for on-campus visits by guest lecturers or performers, promoting collaboration and communication with the IML. Priority is given to departments that did not receive funding last year. A limited number of grants are awarded annually, ensuring impactful experiences for students.

The Eastman Departmental Residency and Colloquium Grant provides funding to enhance the mission of the Institute for Music Leadership (IML) at the Eastman School of Music. It fosters collaboration with various departments, inviting external experts for presentations and events. Additionally, the New Faculty Grant is specifically for new full-time faculty within their first two years, promoting professional development opportunities. Only two grants are awarded annually, emphasizing support for departments that did not receive funding in the previous year.

Jazz Road Tours Grants provide financial support for emerging and mid-career jazz artists to develop tours across communities in the U.S. Grants up to $15,000 facilitate three-to-six site tours, focusing on underserved areas. This program, funded by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation and the Mellon Foundation, aims to enhance artists' income opportunities while promoting jazz in diverse venues. Applications are encouraged from individual artists, with deadlines throughout 2024 and 2025 for various tour periods.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) is announcing a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for Diabetes Research Centers (DRCs). These centers aim to foster collaboration among diabetes researchers, enhance preclinical and clinical research, and provide access to specialized resources. Emphasis is on innovative scientific themes and collaborative projects in areas such as Immunology and Artificial Intelligence. Although applications are not currently solicited, potential applicants are encouraged to prepare for future submissions.

The Braly Trade / Vocational Scholarship, offered by the Longmont Community Foundation, supports individuals over 21 pursuing a trade or vocational education. This one-time award of $5,000 is allocated for tuition, fees, books, and other educational expenses. The scholarship honors the Braly family’s legacy in trades and aims to empower recipients to positively impact their communities. Applicants must be high school graduates or hold a GED and plan to attend an accredited institution in the U.S.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 300 funds and approximately $80 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

George and Harriet Korellis Scholarship

Use the chart below to see which scholarships are the best fit for you! You must complete the Legacy Universal Application to apply.

Scholarship eligibility requires students to attend an accredited 2 or 4 year public or private institution of higher learning. All scholarships are for full-time students, unless otherwise noted. Renewable awards are for 4 years of undergraduate study and cannot be used for post graduate coursework; all awards are paid directly to the school or may be used for book reimbursement.

The Arnold Shultz Fund, established by the IBMA Foundation, aims to enhance diversity in bluegrass music by providing $30,000 annually in grants. This initiative supports individuals, schools, and organizations dedicated to inclusivity, particularly among underrepresented racial and ethnic groups. The fund honors Arnold Shultz, a pivotal African American musician who mentored Bill Monroe, and continues his legacy by funding educational opportunities for young musicians and promoting bluegrass music in diverse communities.

Angell Family Scholarship

The Angell Family Scholarship is for graduating high school seniors that attended Linton-Stockton, White River Valley, Dugger Union, or Sullivan High School. This scholarship is intended for students pursuing a one- or two-year vocational or occupational degree at Vincennes University or Ivy Tech which will lead directly to employment once completed. (Students seeking four-year degree paths should view other scholarship options offered by the Foundation.) The Angell Family Scholarship Fund was established in 1998 to provide scholarships for graduating high school seniors that reside in the Angell family (former) business marketing area in Greene and Sullivan counties.

The ABC Law Centers: Disability Advocacy Scholarship, offered by ABC Law Centers, provides a $1,000 scholarship annually to students pursuing law or public policy careers focused on disability advocacy. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. higher education institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This initiative aligns with the firm's mission to support families affected by birth injuries, ensuring that future advocates are equipped to address the legal needs of individuals with disabilities.

The Laboratory Flexible Funding Model (LFFM) aims to enhance state food testing laboratories' capabilities, supporting an integrated food safety system. By prioritizing sample testing and food defense preparedness in microbiology, chemistry, and radiochemistry, this cooperative agreement facilitates method development and expands testing capacity, ensuring safer food for consumers.

Rapid Cancer Grants

Fast Funding for Home Cancer Care Research

We fund healthcare researchers to rapidly explore the feasibility of home infusion as a solution to the ongoing challenges of capacity shortage, site of care management, and financial toxicity in cancer care.

Traditional funding pathways for new care models are too slow to impact patients, so we’ve streamlined the process. By providing funding approvals within 14 days, we enable healthcare teams to quickly launch and evaluate home-based cancer care programs that improve access and affordability.  

What can a Rapid Cancer Grant be used for?

Projects must comprise of research investigating the feasibility, safety, or economic benefit of cancer care at home and must include delivering care to patients via an IRB approved study. IRB approval may be obtained after grant approval. Projects may include assessing suitability of home infusion, enabling access to lab draws at home, or remote care co-ordination to reduce time toxicity for patients.

If you’re a healthcare worker at an oncology practice, hospital or academic institution in the United States and are interested in continuing or launching a new home cancer care initiative, we invite you to apply for a Rapid Cancer Grant.

Karma for Cara Microgrants empowers students aged 18 and under to bring their service project ideas to life with funding up to $1,000. Founded in honor of Cara Becker, who inspired community service during her own health journey, the program supports a wide range of initiatives aimed at improving local communities across the U.S. Students are encouraged to demonstrate creativity and community involvement, with grants awarded quarterly to fuel their impactful projects.

The St. Baldrick's Foundation offers Infrastructure Awards to support institutions in enhancing their capacity for childhood cancer clinical trials. These grants are aimed at smaller entities lacking necessary resources, enabling them to hire personnel and acquire vital tools to increase participation. Since 2005, the Foundation has invested over $356 million in childhood cancer research, focusing on collaboration and innovation to find cures. Institutions in the U.S. are eligible, promoting broader access to crucial clinical trials.

The Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Research Grant, funded by the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research, aims to support innovative research that optimizes movement and enhances societal health. With a commitment to addressing health disparities, the foundation will award $40,000 for one or two years to promising researchers. This initiative not only strengthens the physical therapy profession but also contributes to the growing evidence base that underscores the value of physical therapy in various healthcare settings.

The NESOT Fall Meeting Oral Presentation Award, sponsored by the Society of Toxicology, recognizes outstanding presentations by students in the Northeast. Up to four students will be selected to present their research, with one receiving a $1,000 prize for the best oral presentation. Eligible candidates must be NESOT members affiliated with institutions in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, or Vermont. Previous winners of the oral award may not compete but can participate in the poster competition.