Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Connecticut

The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving offers Resident Engagement Grants aimed at nonprofits and community groups to enhance civic participation and trust within communities. This program supports projects that foster social issue awareness and allyship with marginalized populations through activities like community meetings and workshops. Grants range from $1,000 to $25,000 and are available for initiatives addressing various social justice issues, including housing and education.

Arizona Community Foundation

For more than four decades, the Arizona Community Foundation has worked in tandem with generous individuals, families, and organizations to address some of the biggest challenges facing our state.

Scholarships

In partnership with our generous donors, we award millions of dollars annually to help students achieve their educational goals. Through our online system, students complete one application and are matched with available scholarships, based on their eligibility requirements.

ACF Memorial Scholarship

This memorial scholarship supports current or former foster care youth and first generation students in Arizona. 

Arizona Community Foundation

For more than four decades, the Arizona Community Foundation has worked in tandem with generous individuals, families, and organizations to address some of the biggest challenges facing our state.

Scholarships

In partnership with our generous donors, we award millions of dollars annually to help students achieve their educational goals. Through our online system, students complete one application and are matched with available scholarships, based on their eligibility requirements.

Andrews and Esser Scholarship

This scholarship was set up in memory of Marvin A. Andrews and Charles A. Esser. In addition to the monetary award, the Andrews and Esser Scholarship recipient will be given the opportunity for a paid internship stipend. The Andrews Scholarship/Internship is open to a part-time Masters of Public Administration student who is currently working in local government. Scholarship is not renewable.

Margaret A. Stafford Nursing Scholarship

Award:

• One time award of $2,000. 

Scholarships

Grand Haven Area Community Foundation scholarships are awarded competitively based on criteria set by donors. These criteria could include financial need, the school the applicant is attending, academic achievement, as well as personal or career goals. The Community Foundation has a rigorous internal selection process for each scholarship decision, and each applicant is reviewed in depth, and considered thoroughly.

Our scholarship program is simple. You are able to apply once for all foundation scholarships you may be eligible for. Once your application is submitted, you will be eligible for all those for which you meet the requirement.

Coopersville Endowed Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund opened in 2000 and was formerly a student loan program. It now offers scholarship opportunities to students who wish to continue their education beyond high school.

The NCCIH Multi-Site Feasibility Clinical Trials of Mind and Body Interventions (R01) invites applications for clinical trials focusing on complementary and integrative health approaches. This funding opportunity emphasizes the importance of multisite feasibility trials to gather essential data for planning future efficacy studies. Deadlines for standard and AIDS-related applications range from February 2024 to November 2026, underscoring the urgency for innovative research in high-priority areas.

HLP Hamakua Community Foundation: Annual College Scholarship

Taka Domingo was a lifetime resident of the Hamakua and founding board member of the HLP Hamakua Community Foundation. He was born in Kukuihaele and attended Honoka'a High School. After working for 30 years at Hamakua Sugar Company as an electrician, he embarked on a career in public service representing Hamakua on the Hawaii County Council for the 20 years. This vocational scholarship is being offered in his honor.

The HLP Hamakua Community Foundation is a non-profit organization that was formed to benefit the people of Hamakua. An annual scholarship is awarded to encourage students that graduate from Honoka'a High School or students who live in the Hamakua District to further their education upon graduation.

Individual award amount:

• $2,000.00. Scholarships will be awarded upon proof of enrollment and must be claimed by November 1, of the year the scholarship is awarded.
• Applications are available at your school counselor’s office or online.

AΩA is committed to preparing future leaders in medicine and health care. Leadership is about making a positive difference and can be developed through education, observation, experience, and by working with leader mentors. Service learning provides excellent opportunities for students to develop as servant leaders. Only one team from each school may be nominated.

The JSF Scholarships aim to empower economically disadvantaged students by providing financial assistance for their education. This initiative addresses barriers to education and employment, enabling students to achieve academic success and meaningful careers. The Foundation supports various scholarship programs, partnering with schools and universities, and focusing on areas such as financial need and mentorship. By fostering educational opportunities, the JSF Scholarships contribute significantly to community development and individual empowerment.

The Microplastics Research and Resource Coordination Center aims to foster collaboration among researchers in biomedical and material sciences to understand the health impacts of micro/nanoplastics (M/NPs). This initiative will enhance research reliability by standardizing sampling, analytical practices, and data harmonization. The center will lead efforts in best practices and provide essential guidance to the M/NPs research community, ultimately advancing knowledge and methodologies in this critical area of study.

The Montana Circle K - Key Club Renewal Scholarship Program, supported by the Kiwanis Foundation of Montana, recognizes and aids Circle K members who have previously earned a scholarship and excelled academically in college. This program emphasizes the importance of leadership, community service, and continued academic achievement, providing essential financial assistance to deserving students who contribute positively to their communities.

The Tailored for Troops Grant Program, initiated by the Disabled Veterans National Foundation, provides essential business attire to veterans seeking employment. This initiative addresses the unique challenges veterans face in the job market, including unemployment and the need for proper attire. By partnering with organizations that offer employment services, the program ensures that veterans receive necessary support in their transition to civilian careers, ultimately aiding in reducing homelessness among veterans.

The Armstrong Foundation, established in 1949, focuses on funding educational initiatives that promote the significance of the U.S. Constitution. To be eligible, organizations must provide an IRS determination letter confirming their 501(c)(3) status. This foundation aims to enhance public understanding and appreciation of constitutional values through various educational mediums.

Kids' Chance of Pennsylvania Scholarship

The mission of Kids’ Chance of Pennsylvania, Inc. (Kids’ Chance of PA) is to provide scholarship grants for college and vocational education to children of Pennsylvania workers who have been killed or seriously injured in a work-related accident resulting in financial need.

The hardships created by the death or serious disability of a parent often include financial ones, making it difficult for deserving young people to pursue their educational dreams. That's where we come in - helping those dreams become a reality!

We are dedicated to supporting the higher education of the children of seriously injured or killed Pennsylvania workers. Since our inception in 1997, we have provided over 1,150 scholarships totaling more than $3.2 million to deserving students! If you are one of these children, we encourage you to take the time to fill out this application. Additionally, if you receive a KCPA scholarship, you may be eligible to receive supplemental grant money through an agreement with the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency/Pathways to Higher Education (PHEAA/PATH) Program

Scholarships are awarded on an annual basis and must be reapplied for each year. 

Arizona Community Foundation

For more than four decades, the Arizona Community Foundation has worked in tandem with generous individuals, families, and organizations to address some of the biggest challenges facing our state.

Scholarships

In partnership with our generous donors, we award millions of dollars annually to help students achieve their educational goals. Through our online system, students complete one application and are matched with available scholarships, based on their eligibility requirements.

The Maria Gomez Dream Scholarship

Sponsored by the MG Dream Foundation, the Maria Gomez Dream Scholarship was established in memory of a friend and daughter who lost her battle with cancer in 2014. Maria cared about her community, giving her time and talents to make the world a better place. Through this scholarship, the MG Dream Foundation honors Maria by supporting college-bound youth in pursuit of higher education. Our vision is to set forth a ripple effect and create a positive generational change in students' lives.

CCF: Women’s Giving Circle Grants

The Women’s Giving Circle at Connecticut Community Foundation was formed in 2017 to bring women together to learn about issues affecting women and girls in Greater Waterbury and the Litchfield Hills, to join their dollars, and to make grants that will improve lives. When it is time to make grants, Circle members decide together the issues they want to support, such as employment, education, pay equity, housing, parenting or women’s health. Circle members review grant applications and make funding decisions together. The Women’s Giving Circle is open to anyone who cares about women and girls in Greater Waterbury and the Litchfield Hills.

Grant proposals are accepted once annually.

What is the average grant amount?

The average amount is between $5,000 and $15,000. Please review the grant guidelines for the funding area you plan to apply to for an average amount. Grants for larger amounts can be considered. However, for those, please contact our staff to discuss the project in advance of submission.

The Polaris Trails Grants Program, launched in January 2006, supports off-road and snow clubs across the U.S. and Canada. This pioneering initiative funds projects that promote safe riding, trail preservation, and environmental protection. Organizations can receive up to $10,000 for trail development, safety initiatives, and maintaining land access. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(7) organizations, while funds are not available for politically or religiously affiliated programs.

Community Foundation of Carroll County

The Community Foundation of Carroll County, Inc. was established in 1994 to ensure financial support for Carroll County not-for-profit organizations. It is governed by a Board of Directors and is a 501c(3) public charity. The Community Foundation of Carroll County is trusted partner for donors and nonprofits. We provide one central place where anyone can create a charitable fund, support what matters most, and leave a legacy of lasting impact.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports more than 75 scholarships. These scholarships vary in the amounts they award and cover a wide variety of student interests. Qualifiers range from academic achievements, sports played, and community service performed, to 4-H and FFA involvement. While the majority are for graduating Carroll County high school seniors, there are several for students in college or technical school, and even opportunities for students attending private primary school. 

4-H John J. Mazur, Jr. Memorial 4-H Scholarship

The purpose of John J. Mazur, Jr. Memorial 4-H Scholarship is to provide scholarships for high-school graduates who have participated in Carroll County 4-H programs in livestock and photography.

In 2025, the Community Foundation of Madison & Jefferson County awarded over $233,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors of the county’s public and private high schools. Nearly 50 different students earned money toward their college costs. Scholarships are available for a variety of applicants. Some are specific to schools, majors, need, or interests.

CFMJC scholarships may be used for tuition and related expenses like fees and required equipment at accredited colleges and universities. Room and board are not covered.

Terry & Wanda Wood Memorial Scholarship

Criteria evaluated:

• Work ethic and ambition, desire to pursue a trade, and financial need

Required materials: 

• Essay of up to 250 words describing the applicant’s career path plans, 
• 2 letters of recommendation from teachers and/or counselors, and 3) FAFSA SAI PDF upload

Scholarship amount:

• $7,500 | 1 scholarship

The Pittsburgh Conference Memorial National College Grant (PCMNCG) supports small college science departments by providing grants for scientific equipment, teaching aids, and library materials. With a maximum funding of $10,000, this initiative promotes excellence in science education and encourages proposals that demonstrate effective integration of requested resources into curricula. Eligible institutions must have fewer than 5,000 students, ensuring that funds significantly impact undergraduate science education across diverse fields.

Seattle Foundation

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

The Stanley Ann Dunham Scholarship

These $5,000 college scholarships are awarded annually to female-identifying students in the graduating senior class at Mercer Island High School (MIHS), Chief Sealth International High School (CSIHS), and Rainier Beach High School (RBHS). Students should demonstrate commitment to the values and goals embodied in the life and work of Dr. Stanley Ann Dunham, a 1960 Mercer Island High School graduate, anthropologist, and mother of the 44th President of the United States, Barack H. Obama, and Dr. Maya Soetoro-Ng.

Michigan Sugar Company

Since our founding, more than a century ago, when six independent sugarbeet companies merged, Michigan Sugar Company has perfected the process of turning one of the region’s largest cash crops—the sugarbeet—into pure, all-natural sugar.

Today, Michigan Sugar Company is the third largest beet sugar processor in the United States, producing an annual average of about 1.3 billion pounds of sugar.

Michigan Sugar Company is proud to offer several scholarships to students in our sugarbeet growing areas. 

Michigan Sugar Festival Queen Scholarship

The Michigan Sugar Festival Queen Program, managed by the Sebewaing Chamber of Commerce and Festival Committee and sponsored in part by Michigan Sugar Company, celebrates and promotes the sugarbeet industry. This scholarship is designed for candidates with strong ties to Michigan sugarbeet farming, reflecting the importance of industry connection and representation.

All contestants will attend the Opening Ceremony of the Michigan Sugar Festival.

Contest winners will be required to attend a certain number of parades, events, and social commitments requested by Michigan Sugar Festival Committee. In addition, the following year’s Michigan Sugar Queen Interview Day, Michigan Sugar Queen Crowning Event, the Michigan Sugar Festival Grand Parade as the past year’s queen and court, along with parades in Bay, Huron, Sanilac, and Tuscola Counties.

Recommendations in support of applications could be from teachers, counselors, pastor, employer, or other respected business officials.

The Housing for Everyone Grant Competition, part of the 2026 Initiative, aims to support eviction prevention in low-to moderate-income communities. This 20th annual initiative recognizes the destabilizing impact of eviction and displacement on families, which leads to job loss, school disruptions, and health issues. By funding innovative organizations, the competition seeks to provide stability for renters, enabling them to stay in their homes and communities.

The Limited Competition: Biomedical Research Environment & Sponsored Programs Administration Development (BRE-SPAD) Program aims to enhance the research capacity of resource-limited institutions. By focusing on essential areas like biomedical research environment and sponsored programs administration, this initiative seeks to foster rigorous and reproducible biomedical research. Eligible organizations are encouraged to submit proposals addressing their specific needs, thereby expanding the pool of qualified researchers and strengthening the settings for NIH-funded research.

Julie H. Shenk Memorial Scholarship

Award:

• One time award of $1,000.

Who We Are

The Delaware Community Foundation (DCF) is a nonprofit organization focused on partnering with donors to build opportunity and advance equity in Delaware.

Our mission is to strengthen Delaware by maximizing community-based philanthropy.

Our vision is a Delaware where generosity expands opportunities for all.

Looking for some financial help this school year?

The DCF awarded scholarships totaling a record-breaking $850,000 to 245 students for the 2024-2025 school year.

Section 4: Unique Scholarships requiring a separate application

Scott Kammerer Scholarship

One-time award of $2,000.

The Janosik Family Scholarship, awarded by the Delaware Community Foundation, offers a one-time financial assistance of $2,000 for graduating seniors from specific Eastern Shore High Schools. This program emphasizes citizenship qualities, work ethic, and community service as key selection criteria. In 2024-2025, the foundation distributed a record-breaking $850,000 in scholarships to support students pursuing undergraduate degrees, promoting educational opportunities and equity across Delaware.