Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

The Deana and Paul Strunk Military Veterans Scholarship Program offers financial aid ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 for veterans and military dependents pursuing geoscience degrees at accredited institutions. This program facilitates educational opportunities and aids in the transition of veterans to civilian careers. Eligible applicants must provide proof of military service and demonstrate financial need, along with academic excellence and a commitment to geoscience. This initiative aims to support both active service members and veterans in their educational journeys.

The TidePointe Community Educational Scholarship, established by the residents of TidePointe, supports employees and their dependents pursuing secondary or post-secondary education. This initiative reflects the community's generosity and commitment to academic achievement. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents, work at least 12 hours a week at TidePointe, and have maintained good employment records. This scholarship empowers individuals to achieve their educational ambitions, fostering growth and opportunity within the Lowcountry community.

The SOT Science Policy Leadership Award honors elected officials who advocate for scientific research that protects health and the environment. By recognizing individuals who support public policy that advances safety for people and animals, this award promotes the importance of science in decision-making processes. The Society of Toxicology aims to highlight the contributions of leaders in science policy, encouraging further advancements in health and safety research while fostering a collaborative relationship between science and government.

The Henry J. and Lucille J. Straus Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides twelve renewable scholarships of $6,000 each for high school seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.2. Eligible students must enroll in a four-year accredited private college and demonstrate financial need via FAFSA. Requirements include a transcript, an essay on community service, and a letter of recommendation highlighting the applicant's character and commitment to diversity and inclusivity.

The James F. Densler Award, presented by the American Pediatric Surgical Association, recognizes individuals who promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in pediatric surgery. This prestigious award celebrates those who have made significant contributions to diverse care delivery and team dynamics, fostering an inclusive environment within the surgical community. Nominees should exemplify dedication to enhancing the lives of underserved populations through their work in pediatric surgery.

The Hearld and Marge Ambler Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides two $6,000 awards to undergraduate students in their third, fourth, or fifth year pursuing a Business major, with a preference for Accounting. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 2.75, demonstrate financial need, and be employed while studying at an accredited four-year institution in Missouri or a contiguous state. Required application materials include a transcript, essay, letter of recommendation, and a summary of community service.

The VFW Student Fellowship, hosted by the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Student Veterans of America, empowers student veterans to advocate for their community on Capitol Hill. Running from October 2025 to March 2026, this program offers selected fellows the chance to collaborate on policy priorities, attend leadership training, and participate in significant conferences, ensuring their voices are heard among 500 advocates at the VFW Washington Conference. Travel expenses are fully covered.

The Toshiba America Foundation offers grants to K-5 teachers in public and nonprofit private schools, funding innovative projects in math and science education. Designed to support teachers in implementing hands-on learning experiences, these grants encourage creativity and community involvement. Applicants can propose projects that enhance student engagement and foster scientific inquiry. The foundation prioritizes teacher-led initiatives, making it a valuable resource for educators aiming to enrich their classrooms and inspire young learners.

Dominique's Musician Corner Scholarship, established in 2016 in memory of Dominique Williams, supports students from Beaufort or Jasper Counties in South Carolina and Chatham County in Georgia pursuing post-secondary education in performing arts. This merit-based scholarship does not require financial information and focuses on specific eligibility criteria to ensure the most deserving candidates receive assistance in their artistic endeavors.

The Don Linn Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides $700 to a graduating senior from Beatrice High School. Established in 1987, the Foundation supports educational opportunities in the district and awards over $55,000 annually in scholarships. Candidates are selected based on academic merit and financial need, with preference given to those who may struggle to pursue higher education. Applicants must submit their FAFSA Student Aid Report to qualify.

The Rotary Club of Milwaukee Scholarship provides financial support and mentorship to high school seniors in Milwaukee pursuing higher education. This program, which has been active for over 110 years, aims to invest in the next generation of community leaders. Recipients not only receive financial aid but also engage in educational programming and are paired with mentors for guidance throughout their college journey, ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed.

Stark Community FoundationStark Community Foundation is one of the area’s major sources of college scholarship support— thanks to the generosity of caring individuals, families and businesses that have created scholarship funds.The Foundation currently manages more than 100 scholarship funds that support hundreds of deserving students each year from Stark and Carroll counties. In 2025, more than $1,000,000 was awarded to local students to help them achieve their educational dreams.The Wayne D. Ackerman Scholarship FundThe Wayne D. Ackerman Scholarship Fund assists seniors from Stark County high schools who will graduate in May/June. Applicants must be accepted as full-time students at a four-year college or university, have a GPA of at least 3.0, and have demonstrated outstanding involvement in academics and extracurriculars.Renewable Scholarship: No

The BHS Class of 1961 Scholarship, managed by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers a $700 award to a graduating senior from Beatrice High School. This scholarship prioritizes students in the top 40% of their class, demonstrating financial need and exemplary personal ethics. Recipients must provide a Student Aid Report from FAFSA, ensuring assistance for tuition and related expenses. The Foundation, established in 1987, aims to enhance educational opportunities within the Beatrice School District.

The BHS Writing Achievement: Mark Metcalf Award, sponsored by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers a $500 scholarship to Beatrice High School graduating seniors who demonstrate a strong commitment to writing. Established in 1987, the Foundation supports educational opportunities through an Endowment Fund and awards over $55,000 annually in scholarships. This award is designed for students who excel in writing and need financial assistance for higher education.

Alger Regional Community FoundationThe Alger Regional Community Foundation (ARCF) is a locally based 501(C)(3) nonprofit corporation dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Alger County through grants and scholarships.ARCF is a unique institution. It is a permanent, yet flexible, collection of endowment funds contributed by people from all walks of life who want to make a difference in our community.Thelma N. Cotey ScholarshipApplicants must be planning to pursue further education in the areas of medicine, business, or forestry. 

Alger Regional Community FoundationThe Alger Regional Community Foundation (ARCF) is a locally based 501(C)(3) nonprofit corporation dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Alger County through grants and scholarships.

ARCF is a unique institution. It is a permanent, yet flexible, collection of endowment funds contributed by people from all walks of life who want to make a difference in our community.Simonen ScholarshipThe Paul & Alice Simonen Scholarship is offered to any Alger County resident planning to pursue post-secondary education at a college, university, vocational, or technical institute.

Preference will be given to an individual with future potential as evidenced by an exceptional record of achievement in school, community, and/or employment. Examples of achievement may include, but are not limited to, areas such as academics, fine arts, athletics, technology, volunteerism, service clubs, work/military experience.

Alger Regional Community FoundationThe Alger Regional Community Foundation (ARCF) is a locally based 501(C)(3) nonprofit corporation dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Alger County through grants and scholarships.

ARCF is a unique institution. It is a permanent, yet flexible, collection of endowment funds contributed by people from all walks of life who want to make a difference in our community.Native American Education AwardGiven to a Native American graduate, applicants must have participated in Native Cultural/Academic activities, projects, or programs while attending MHS, be a participant in community service activities, and must have a minimum 2.0 overall GPA.

The Camacho-Cook Scholarship, established by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides a $1000 award for Beatrice High School students pursuing a mechanical engineering degree at a four-year institution. This foundation, created in 1987, aims to support educational opportunities for students in the Beatrice School District. Eligible applicants must maintain a 3.500 GPA and demonstrate strong character and leadership skills. The scholarship is part of a broader commitment to assist deserving students in their pursuit of higher education.

The STEM Higher Education Grant Program, funded by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, aims to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM graduate education. The program focuses on transforming educational pathways, empowering universities, and supporting innovative initiatives that cultivate a diverse faculty body. By addressing systemic barriers and promoting inclusive environments, the Foundation seeks to ensure that all students have equitable opportunities to succeed in STEM fields, ultimately strengthening the scientific enterprise.

The Bonham, Vivian M. Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides a $2,500 scholarship to a graduating senior girl from Beatrice High School pursuing a business career. Established to support students in need, the scholarship is awarded based on interest in business, financial need, and a minimum GPA of 2.5. Recipients must submit a faculty recommendation from a business teacher and a Student Aid Report from FAFSA. This scholarship aims to empower future female leaders in business.

The Joyce H. Power Scholarship Endowment, established in December 2022 by Joyce H. Power, supports Southern Beaufort County residents pursuing post-secondary education. This scholarship is aimed at students who have experienced the loss of a parent and have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, requiring a minimum GPA of 2.5. Funded by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, it plays a vital role in enhancing educational opportunities for deserving students in the region.

The Live Like D.J. – Dwon Fields Jr. Scholarship, established in 2021 by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, honors Dwon Fields, Jr. This scholarship supports high school seniors and recent graduates from Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper Counties, who demonstrate kindness and compassion. By fostering educational opportunities, this fund aims to empower students to make a positive impact in their communities, reflecting the values exemplified by D.J. throughout his life.

Alger Regional Community FoundationThe Alger Regional Community Foundation (ARCF) is a locally based 501(C)(3) nonprofit corporation dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Alger County through grants and scholarships.ARCF is a unique institution. It is a permanent, yet flexible, collection of endowment funds contributed by people from all walks of life who want to make a difference in our community.Michael G. Lindquist, PhD ScholarshipA scholarship will be given to a graduate of any Alger County high school planning to pursue a degree in engineering, chemistry, math, or physics. Academic excellence coupled with financial need are prime considerations.

Alger Regional Community FoundationThe Alger Regional Community Foundation (ARCF) is a locally based 501(C)(3) nonprofit corporation dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Alger County through grants and scholarships.

ARCF is a unique institution. It is a permanent, yet flexible, collection of endowment funds contributed by people from all walks of life who want to make a difference in our community. Lloyd C. Artibee ScholarshipApplicants must be planning to attend a university, college, technical, or vocational institution, and have been involved in community and/or school activities. 

Alger Regional Community FoundationThe Alger Regional Community Foundation (ARCF) is a locally based 501(C)(3) nonprofit corporation dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Alger County through grants and scholarships. ARCF is a unique institution. It is a permanent, yet flexible, collection of endowment funds contributed by people from all walks of life who want to make a difference in our community.Frank & Mary Hausler Scholarship FundApplicants must be planning to pursue educational advancement in medicine, law, dentistry, engineering or the priesthood.

The Miller Family Scholarship offers financial assistance to graduating seniors from the North East, PA school district or residents of North East. This renewable scholarship is aimed at students pursuing college, university, or vocational education, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. It supports local talent and encourages higher education in the community.

The Lucrecia C. Lester Memorial Scholarship, established in 2015 by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, provides financial assistance to high school seniors from Colleton, Hampton, Jasper, or Beaufort Counties in South Carolina. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing post-secondary education, emphasizing financial need and academic determination. The foundation has invested over $125 million in the Lowcountry since its inception, striving to enhance community well-being through philanthropic leadership.