Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Illinois

The DAR Historic Preservation Grants, offered by the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, provide $250,000 annually to support projects that preserve historic resources and sites. Eligible applicants must secure additional funding and adhere to preservation guidelines. Projects must recognize DAR's contribution publicly and can include restoration, digitization, and conservation efforts. Preference is given to projects reflecting Colonial to Federal periods, fostering a deep appreciation for American history.

The Mockingbird Foundation offers competitive grants for music education for children. Focused on underserved communities, the foundation supports innovative projects that engage children directly through music. Grants are only available for nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, including public schools, in the U.S. The aim is to enhance creative expression and provide music education in unconventional settings. Applications must demonstrate a commitment to diversity and inclusion in their programs.

Carol J. Kenagy Nursing Education Scholarship

In memory of Carol J. Kenagy, RN and through the wonderful generosity of our donors, Silverton Health Foundation is able to offer continuing education scholarships for Legacy Silverton staff pursuing nursing degrees.

The Carol J. Kenagy Nursing Education Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis.

All clinical programs are eligible and encouraged to apply.

Amount of Award:

• up to $5,000 annually 
• Number of Awards: 2-3

The Jason Pettigrew Memorial ARE Scholarship, administered by the Architects Foundation, supports emerging architecture professionals by covering costs for the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). Open to current Associate AIA members, the scholarship honors Jason Pettigrew's legacy and encourages applicants who demonstrate significant contributions to the profession. Recipients gain financial assistance for exam fees and study materials, aiding their journey toward architectural licensure and fostering a new generation of architects committed to community impact.

The Yann Weymouth Graduate Scholarship provides $5,000 and mentorship to a graduate student focusing on sustainability, resilience, wellness, and beauty in design. Administered by the Architects Foundation, candidates must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, be U.S. citizens, and enrolled in a NAAB-accredited architecture program. Previous recipients can reapply. This scholarship honors the legacy of Yann Weymouth, an accomplished architect known for his significant contributions to major design projects.

The Institutional Research Grants (IRG) program by the American Cancer Society provides essential seed funding for newly independent investigators to launch cancer research projects. Aimed at junior faculty, these grants offer $120,000 annually for three years, supporting the development of preliminary results necessary for competing for larger national grants. Eligible applicants must be at US academic institutions and hold the rank of Associate or Full Professor, with a proven track record in research and mentorship.

The EEFF Educational Leadership Grant, initiated in 2008 by the Edward E. Ford Foundation, supports innovative proposals from independent schools that aim to impact educational practices nationally. Schools can apply without prior invitations, and grants are awarded based on proposal quality. Eligibility includes serving grades 9-12, having a diverse mission, and a head of school in their third year. The program encourages original thinking and partnerships beyond the school community, aiming for significant, replicable change.

The Edward E. Ford Foundation offers Traditional Grants to independent schools in the U.S. for projects that enhance educational opportunities. With over $118 million granted since its inception, the Foundation emphasizes the importance of matching funds, requiring a dollar-for-dollar commitment from schools. Eligible institutions must serve grades 9-12, be NAIS members, and have a qualified Head of School. Applications are considered during the June and November Agendas, supporting diverse educational initiatives.

The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund Grants support the preservation of historic sites that reflect African American cultural heritage. Grants ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 assist projects in areas like Capital Projects, Organizational Capacity Building, Project Planning, and Programming. Eligible applicants include public agencies, accredited colleges, and nonprofits. The program emphasizes themes such as activism, innovation, and historically significant sites, aiming to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of African American history.

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. 

Bee a Rae of Sunshine Foundation – MaKenzi Rae Cash Memorial Military Service & Leadership Scholarship

To honor and support future military leaders who embody courage, respect, and kindness, carrying forward MaKenzi Rae Cash’s legacy of standing up for others, promoting a culture of kindness, and taking action against bullying in every community.

The Putting Patients First Grant Program, supported by Canon Medical and managed by AHRA, aims to enhance patient care and safety in medical imaging. In 2024, five grants of up to $10,000 each will be awarded to hospitals developing training or programs in categories such as Diagnostic Imaging and Radiation Safety. Recipients are also required to publish their findings in an AHRA publication, promoting shared best practices across institutions.

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports nearly 70 academic, sports, special circumstances, and 4-H scholarships. Search scholarships by name, or sort by application type.

Legacy Septic and Excavation Scholarships

The purpose of the Legacy Septic and Excavation Scholarships is to provide scholarships for current students of Winter’s Mill High School, Manchester Valley High School, Westminster High School and Carroll County Career and Technology Center who have an interest in the environment and who meet the eligibility requirements set up for this scholarship.

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. 

The Shelley Pillman Memorial Scholarship

The Shelley Pillman Memorial Scholarship supports students pursuing a career in veterinary medicine, honoring the legacy of Shelley, a beloved rescue dog whose gentle spirit and unwavering compassion touched the lives of all who knew her. This scholarship aims to foster the next generation of compassionate veterinarians who will continue to care for animals with the same kindness and dedication that Shelley embodied.

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. 

International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 37 Scholarship

This scholarship is to provide scholarships for continuing education, undergraduate or graduate study to current and retired members of IUOE, Local 37, their spouses, dependent children (as defined by IRS regulation) and grandchildren. If the applicant is a Union Member he or she must have at least one year of continuous Union Membership. If the applicant is a spouse, dependent child or grandchild, the Union Member must fulfill the eligibility requirements.

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports nearly 70 academic, sports, special circumstances, and 4-H scholarships. Search scholarships by name, or sort by application type.

Meghan Lynn Rippeon Memorial Scholarship

The purpose of the Meghan Lynn Rippeon Memorial Scholarship is to honor the life of Meghan Lynn Rippeon by providing a scholarship for any senior graduating from a Carroll County, Maryland high school who has shown academic achievement and is pursuing an education in early childhood development and who has been accepted at an accredited College, University, or Technical School. Applications will also be accepted from continuing students, i.e. those that are already in college, who meet the criteria established for this scholarship.

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports nearly 70 academic, sports, special circumstances, and 4-H scholarships. Search scholarships by name, or sort by application type.

Michael W. Wantz Scholarship

The purpose of the Michael W. Wantz Scholarship is to honor the values, attributes, and dedication of Michael W. Wantz, the diesel teacher at Carroll County Career & Technology Center. This award is to provide scholarships for graduating seniors in Carroll County, Maryland who have attained their secondary-school diploma from the Carroll County Career and Technology Center in Diesel Technology. The scholarships shall be for those students to attend schools of higher learning or a certified program appropriate to enhance their capacities and capabilities in Diesel Technology.

ExtremeTerrain's Clean Trail Grant Program offers $250 for trail improvement projects, encouraging responsible off-roading. Eligible participants include Wrangler and 4x4 clubs, environmental organizations, and trail managers. The program aims to enhance trails through clean-ups, restorations, and expansions. Grants can be used for tools, food for volunteers, and promotional materials. Applicants must meet specific criteria, such as having a website and providing project photos. This initiative promotes stewardship of the natural landscapes we cherish.

Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln

The Community Foundation offers many advantages to donors, professional advisors, nonprofit organizations and the community at large. We constantly strive to ensure that the giving process is as streamlined and safe as possible so our donors can focus on the most important aspect of philanthropy - helping others.

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation serves the counties of Cass, Christian, Logan, Macoupin, Menard, Montgomery, Morgan and Sangamon in central Illinois, and administers an annual scholarship program for approximately 50 scholarship funds.

Fred E. Droste Memorial Scholarship

Graduating senior from a high school in Macoupin or Montgomery Counties who is pursuing a degree in a STEAM-related field.

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports nearly 70 academic, sports, special circumstances, and 4-H scholarships. Search scholarships by name, or sort by application type.

Rita M Medeiros (Rita's Closet) Scholarship

The purpose of the Rita's Closet Scholarship is to honor the memory of Rita Marie Medeiros by providing scholarship (s) for graduating seniors at any public High School in Carroll County, Maryland, and the Carroll County Career and Technology Center. Because Rita was a very caring friend and spent much of her short life, giving others her time, her friendship and ultimately her organ donor gift, the Rita's Closet Scholarship will be awarded to a graduating student (s) pursuing an undergraduate degree at an accredited college, university or technical school who meets the criteria established for the fund.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Armin “Bun” and Lorraine Rinness Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Armin “Bun” and Lorraine Rinness Memorial Scholarship Fund honors Armin “Bun” and Lorraine Rinness by supporting Saginaw County students pursuing college or Career and Technical Education (CTE) training. This fund provides need-based assistance to help local students continue their education and achieve long-term success.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Clarence A. “Buck” Iles Scholarship

The Clarence A. “Buck” Iles Scholarship was lovingly established by his wife of 65 years, Carrie, to enable a deserving young person to pursue his/her education in the electrical field. Mr. and Mrs. Iles established a successful family-owned and operated electrical contracting company – serving the Saginaw area for more than 25 years. It was in this tradition of hard work, honesty and quality service that the Iles Electric Company, Inc., was founded.

Mr. Iles’ only regret was that he was not able to pursue a formal college education, but he enabled his children and grandchildren to accomplish their educational goals and dreams. Education, combined with dreams and hard work, will create realities. It is hoped that the values, determination and ambition demonstrated by Mr. Iles will be passed on to future generations of electricians as they realize their dreams.

The Gabriel, Joseph and Lila Mandour Karam Scholarship, established by the late Joseph G. Karam, supports educational opportunities for students attending 2-year or 4-year colleges, universities, or vocational schools. Administered by the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, the fund has awarded nearly $60,000 to various nonprofits since 2012. The scholarship reflects a commitment to the dramatic arts and technological development, continuing Joseph's philanthropic legacy and vision for community enrichment.

The Hart Family Scholarship, established by Todd and Terry Hart, supports students residing in the 1969 Fire District area of the Town of Trenton. It aims to provide educational opportunities for those accepted into accredited colleges, universities, or vocational schools in the U.S. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and must have lived in the area for at least three years. This scholarship reflects a commitment to enhancing community vibrancy through education.

The PLTW Launch program, in collaboration with Burns and McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by expanding access to innovative educational modules in eligible schools. This initiative supports public and charter schools in targeted counties, focusing on increasing student engagement in STEM fields. Through grant funding, participating schools can introduce new PLTW Launch modules and provide essential training for teachers, fostering a richer learning environment to prepare students for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Success Scholarship (NCF)

Provides scholarships to students in Council Rock School District who have received Emotional Support services during their school years.

The Lozier Foundation

The Lozier Foundation is a private family foundation based in Omaha, Nebraska, funded by Allan and Dianne Lozier. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations working to expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life for people and families who have historically had less access to resources.

The Foundation’s grantmaking is grounded in a long-term commitment to Omaha and the surrounding region. We are especially interested in work that helps level the playing field, supports people during important moments of need or transition, and gives individuals and families greater ability to make choices about their own lives and futures.

The Foundation’s support has historically focused on established nonprofit organizations working in areas such as education, human services, youth development, health, family stability, and community well-being. While those areas describe much of our grantmaking, they are not intended to serve as fixed categories or a comprehensive list.

The Foundation is selective in its grantmaking. We generally support organizations with a meaningful operating history, capable leadership, sound governance, financial discipline, and a demonstrated ability to serve the community effectively. The Foundation does not typically support early-stage organizations, small projects or organizations with limited reach, or requests that fall outside our geographic and charitable priorities.

The Foundation also considers whether a request reflects a clear understanding of the existing community landscape. We are generally skeptical of efforts that duplicate services already being provided effectively by other organizations, particularly when collaboration, coordination, or partnership would better serve the community. Organizations seeking support should be prepared to explain how their work fits within the broader field, who they collaborate with, and why the proposed work is needed.

Grants

Grantseekers wishing to apply to the Lozier Foundation should begin by reviewing the Mission, Values, Funding Priorities and Funding Eligibility Statements.

The Lozier Foundation grant applications include: Capital Application; Education Application; General Application; and Program Application.

Organizations may receive general operating, program, and capital grants. While The Lozier Foundation prefers to provide ongoing general operating support, organizations can receive a program and/or capital grant in the same calendar year.

Lozier Foundation Program Application

Funding Priorities

• Education
• Women & Girls
• North Omaha Initiatives
• Human Services

The Program Application follows the foundation guidelines provided here.

The Lozier Foundation

The Lozier Foundation is a private family foundation based in Omaha, Nebraska, funded by Allan and Dianne Lozier. The Foundation supports nonprofit organizations working to expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and improve quality of life for people and families who have historically had less access to resources.

The Foundation’s grantmaking is grounded in a long-term commitment to Omaha and the surrounding region. We are especially interested in work that helps level the playing field, supports people during important moments of need or transition, and gives individuals and families greater ability to make choices about their own lives and futures.

The Foundation’s support has historically focused on established nonprofit organizations working in areas such as education, human services, youth development, health, family stability, and community well-being. While those areas describe much of our grantmaking, they are not intended to serve as fixed categories or a comprehensive list.

The Foundation is selective in its grantmaking. We generally support organizations with a meaningful operating history, capable leadership, sound governance, financial discipline, and a demonstrated ability to serve the community effectively. The Foundation does not typically support early-stage organizations, small projects or organizations with limited reach, or requests that fall outside our geographic and charitable priorities.

The Foundation also considers whether a request reflects a clear understanding of the existing community landscape. We are generally skeptical of efforts that duplicate services already being provided effectively by other organizations, particularly when collaboration, coordination, or partnership would better serve the community. Organizations seeking support should be prepared to explain how their work fits within the broader field, who they collaborate with, and why the proposed work is needed.

Grants

Grantseekers wishing to apply to the Lozier Foundation should begin by reviewing the Mission, Values, Funding Priorities and Funding Eligibility Statements.

The Lozier Foundation grant applications include: Capital Application; Education Application; General Application; and Program Application.

Organizations may receive general operating, program, and capital grants. While The Lozier Foundation prefers to provide ongoing general operating support, organizations can receive a program and/or capital grant in the same calendar year.

Lozier Foundation General Application

Funding Priorities

• Education
• Women & Girls
• North Omaha Initiatives
• Human Services

The General Application follows the foundation guidelines provided here.