Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Indiana

The DCCF: Capital Project Grant supports the construction or renovation of buildings and the acquisition of land or major equipment. It is open to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, governmental agencies, and qualified educational institutions. There is no application deadline, and organizations can apply once every five years, with projects requiring a minimum budget of $250,000. Priority is given to projects demonstrating strong community need and stable management.

The Jack and Jill of America Foundation offers College Prep Grants aimed at enhancing college readiness for African American children. These grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to building a pipeline of talent. Eligible applicants include public agencies and organizations aligned with the Foundation's mission. The funding excludes scholarships, operational costs, and individual applicants, focusing solely on direct program implementation costs.

International Association of Yoga Therapists

IAYT’s mission is to advance yoga therapy as a recognized health profession.

The International Association of Yoga Therapists has championed yoga as a healing art and science since 1989. Membership is open to all who are aligned with our mission—yoga practitioners, yoga teachers, yoga therapists, healthcare practitioners who use yoga in their practices, and yoga researchers.

More than 5,000 individual members from 50+ countries, together with more than 150 Member Schools, help IAYT to support research and education in yoga.

Nearly 70 IAYT-accredited yoga therapy training programs educate the next generation of IAYT-certified yoga therapists, or C-IAYTs, who come from a range of lineages and backgrounds.

John Kepner Seva Award 

The annual Seva Award recognizes yoga therapists who bring yoga to those who have not had full access to these practices. This award was named in honor of Executive Director Emeritus John Kepner and his tireless efforts to advance the field and give back to the yoga therapy community.

Intended to help support and significantly advance the work of C-IAYTs or yoga therapists in training, the John Kepner Seva Award offers seed funding and publicity for well-defined and well-planned service projects.

IAYT and co-sponsor, the Give Back Yoga Foundation, commit annual support to these awards. 

What projects will be considered?

We’re seeking to support active and ongoing projects that benefit a population that may not otherwise be able to access yoga therapy. We're looking for innovative work that fosters accessibility, inclusivity, diversity, and social justice in yoga therapy, including initiatives focused on overcoming systemic barriers to accessing or training in yoga therapy. Positive consideration is given to yoga therapists from historically underresourced, underserved, marginalized, minoritized, and underrepresented backgrounds. Your application should include specifics about how your project will be communicated to and integrated into the community.

One winner will receive:

• $1,008 (US) prize for project facilitation
• Registration for one person to attend IAYT's Symposium on Yoga Therapy and Research (SYTAR),
• Three nights at the conference hotel
• $400 toward travel to the conference
• Up to 20 yoga mats from Give Back Yoga Foundation to facilitate project classes (if applicable)
• Opportunity to tell the project's story in IAYT’s magazine Yoga Therapy Today
• Recognition at SYTAR 2026
• Social-media coverage from IAYT and Give Back Yoga Foundation
• Two-year beYogi membership (valued at $327)
• Lifetime Sequence Wiz membership (valued at $199/year)

Four runners-up will receive:

• $500 (US) prize for project facilitation (increased from previous years to support travel to SYTAR)
• Up to 20 yoga mats from Give Back Yoga Foundation to facilitate project classes (if applicable)
• Opportunity to tell the project's story in an upcoming IAYT publication
• Recognition at SYTAR 2026
• Social-media coverage from IAYT and Give Back Yoga Foundation

At Genentech, we invest in bold ideas and innovative solutions that address systemic inequities in science and medicine to advance a more just healthcare system. We focus on efforts that diversify the scientific and medical workforce, advance health equity, and help our communities thrive. We also further advance excellence in medicine and healthcare through our grants for independent medical education. IIncluding efforts to promote diversity in STEM across the education pathway, and efforts to support continuing medical education of healthcare providers. Select the option below that best fits your grant focus:

There are multiple ways to apply for funding. Before you submit an application, we encourage you to explore the following materials to learn more about our opportunities for funding, eligibility requirements and considerations, and the process for submitting a proposal within our Funding Request System (gFRS).

The Discovery Boost Grants (DBG) offered by the American Cancer Society support innovative and high-risk exploratory cancer research. These grants, available for up to two years with a funding limit of $125,000 annually plus indirect costs, aim to generate preliminary data that can lead to further funding opportunities. Eligible applicants include independent investigators with a doctorate and a full-time faculty position, fostering advancements in cancer research across multiple priority areas.

The Coolidge Scholarship is a prestigious, full-ride scholarship for undergraduate students in the U.S., covering tuition, room, board, and expenses for four years. It is open to high school juniors from all backgrounds, promoting academic excellence and interest in public policy. Recipients are selected through a rigorous process involving interviews at the Coolidge Historic Site. The program also includes a senators' summit for top applicants, fostering connections among high-achieving students.

This funding opportunity aims to support research investigating the long-term impacts of disasters on healthcare systems in U.S. populations facing health disparities. The focus is on both natural and human-made disasters, encouraging collaborative approaches to enhance understanding and response strategies. Key deadlines for applications range from June 2024 to February 2027, with specific dates for standard, renewal, and AIDS-related grant applications outlined.

The Mission Boost Grants (MBG) by the American Cancer Society aim to enhance cancer research by funding projects that translate into human testing. These grants support investigators at all levels, offering resources for innovative clinical projects. The program consists of two funding stages: Stage I focuses on developing clear milestones for new treatments, while Stage II supports patient testing, ultimately contributing to advancements in cancer care and treatment.

The American Cancer Society's Mentored Research Grants for Postdoctoral Fellowships (PF) aim to support emerging researchers in their training programs, fostering their transition to independent cancer research careers. Eligible candidates include US citizens or non-citizens with valid visas who have completed their doctoral degrees within the last four years. The fellowship offers funding for up to three years, with stipends of $66,000 to $70,000 annually, alongside allowances for health insurance and professional development.

The Clinician Scientist Development Grant (CSDG) by the American Cancer Society supports full-time faculty aiming to become independent clinician scientists while maintaining clinical practice. Eligible applicants must hold a doctoral degree, an active clinical license, and have clinical care experience. The grant provides funding of $135,000 annually for 3 to 5 years, including allowable indirect costs, to advance cancer research in key priority areas.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) and the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) co-fund the Clinician Scientist Development Grant (CSDG), aimed at advancing the research careers of clinician scientists in radiation oncology. Eligible applicants are full-time faculty members at U.S. institutions with a doctoral degree and an active clinical license. The grant supports research for 3 to 5 years, providing $135,000 annually for direct costs, plus allowable indirect costs, while encouraging diversity in applications.

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 Batten Disease Clinical Research Consortium (BDCRC) Early Career Investigator Grant aims to enhance the training of emerging clinician-scientists in rare disease research, particularly neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL). This grant supports two post-graduate clinician investigators in conducting innovative research to improve care for individuals with NCLs. The program emphasizes the importance of community partnership, operational efficiency, and high-quality data to advance the development of new therapies and improve existing care standards.

The Melvin Arthur Peters Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Melvin Peters, a self-taught tradesman and entrepreneur from Shawano County. This scholarship supports high school seniors pursuing education in trades, reflecting Mel's commitment to hard work and skill development. Award amounts vary based on attendance costs, with disbursement in the first semester of college. Eligibility requires enrollment as a part-time or full-time student, emphasizing Mel's values of education and practical skills.

The MPS Astronomical Sciences Research Programs, funded by the National Science Foundation, support innovative research in astronomical sciences. These initiatives aim to enhance our understanding of the universe through core research, technological advancements, and instrumentation. Topics include solar storm prediction, the discovery of exoplanets, and the study of black holes. Proposals should reflect ambitious, transformative ideas that may not require immediate practical outcomes, fostering long-term scientific exploration.

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.

The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLP) is a competitive grant initiative by the National Park Service, aimed at enhancing parks and recreational opportunities in urban, underserved communities. This program supports the acquisition, development, and renovation of outdoor recreation areas through federal funding, addressing the needs of community organizations, local governments, and recognized tribes. Applications are accepted twice a year, before June 1 and November 1.

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) plans to release a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) aimed at advancing precision aging and cognitive health. This initiative seeks innovative study designs using machine learning and adaptive methods, focusing on personalized prevention strategies for older adults. While applications are not currently solicited, this NOFO encourages researchers to collaborate and develop impactful projects in aging research. The R01 activity code will be utilized for funding.

The National Science Foundation's Engineering Directorate (NSF ENG) promotes groundbreaking research in chemical, bioengineering, energy, and transport systems. Key programs include Chemical Process Systems, Engineering Biological and Biomedical Systems, Energy, Water, and Resource Engineering, and Transport Phenomena. NSF ENG seeks innovative, transformative proposals that push the boundaries of foundational research, regardless of immediate commercial applications, and emphasizes diverse funding opportunities based on availability.

The America’s Horse Cares Grant Program, provided by the American Quarter Horse Association, aims to enhance the welfare and training of American Quarter Horses in therapeutic settings. By funding educational workshops from March to September 2026, the program seeks to elevate horsemanship standards and ensure proper horse care. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, focusing on equine-assisted activities for individuals with various challenges, thereby fostering transformative experiences through education and responsible practices.

The Elliott Antokoletz Fund supports doctoral and post-doctoral research in twentieth-century music, honoring the legacy of esteemed scholar Elliott Antokoletz. It is open to Ph.D. students and recent graduates from North American universities, with an award range of $500 to $5000. Preference is given to applicants from institutions lacking financial support for musicological research. This initiative promotes creativity through music-centered research, ensuring equity and inclusion in the academic study of music.

The Howard Vincent Kurtz Student Engagement Grant, funded by USITT, supports emerging theater artists with financial assistance up to $1,200 for academic costs. Grants cover research, travel, and project completion, along with a complimentary conference registration. Eligible applicants include undergraduate and graduate students in theatrical design and technology, nominated by a USITT member. Winners receive mentorship for six months, fostering professional growth and development in the entertainment industry.

The USPOULTRY Research Grants program, sponsored by the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, aims to enhance the poultry industry through comprehensive research funding. Established in 1963, it supports diverse projects related to poultry and egg production. With over $30 million invested, the program emphasizes improving product quality and safety. Proposals are evaluated by a panel of experts, with a funding rate of 15-20%. Eligible projects typically have budgets under $80,000 and timelines of 1-2 years.

The BMC Expedition Grant supports British climbers for international expeditions, prioritizing those who have been BMC members for at least two years. Grants are aimed at younger climbers and under-represented groups, promoting sustainable practices in expedition planning. Eligible teams must demonstrate a commitment to climbing and innovative objectives, while ineligible projects include commercial expeditions and those failing to adhere to grant conditions. This funding aims to foster significant personal development and environmentally conscious climbing.

Edward E. Ford Foundation

The Edward E. Ford Foundation seeks to improve secondary education by supporting U.S. independent schools and encouraging promising practices. 

• We make Traditional Grants to eligible schools and Associations to help them grow and develop in pursuit of their own missions.
• We make Educational Leadership Grants to eligible schools or groups of schools that consist of larger dollar awards to fewer recipients.
• We encourage collaboration with others in both grant cycles.
• Occasionally, we may make larger, multi-­year Collaborative Innovation Grants in support of projects that have the potential to influence secondary education more broadly and positively affect our democratic society.
• Beyond grant-making, we share what we learn, sponsor strategic meetings, and work with others to identify and respond to the most pressing challenges facing the field of secondary education.

Traditional Grant for Associations

These grants are made in response to requests that can range from $25,000 to $100,000 and that must be matched by additional funds raised by the association at least 1:1.

Associations seeking placement on a Traditional Grant Agenda should be prepared to specify the anticipated dollar value of their proposal when they request placement. This can be months in advance of the date the final version of the proposal will be due, depending on the length of the queue. 

Traditional Grants are awarded based on the quality of the proposal and other considerations in terms of the association’s operation, but it does not identify certain areas of independent school work as favored. That is, you can seek guidance as to what sort of proposals have been funded in the past but association should identify their own greatest institutional need that they think the Foundation can help address.

Step-by-Step Process

• Request Agenda Placement — Please fill out the Agenda Placement form to tell the Foundation a bit more about your association and to help us determine if it is eligible for EE Ford funding.

• Agenda Placement Phone Call — If your association is eligible for Agenda Placement, we will schedule a phone call between your association’s Executive Director and the Executive Director of the EE Ford Foundation. This phone call will serve as an informal introduction and it will determine if Agenda placement is right for your association. No proposal can be considered from associations that have not reserved a place on an upcoming Agenda. If your association is placed on an Agenda, you will receive an Agenda Placement Confirmation email with further instruction.

• Executive Director Meeting — Schedule a 2-3 hour meeting between your association’s Executive Director and our foundation’s Executive Director to be held in our Brooklyn office. The Preliminary Materials will be due one week prior to this meeting (see “Preliminary Materials” under "Required Materials"). 

• Final Submission — Deadline for submission of final materials is January 30 for the April Agenda or April 1 for the June Agenda. When the Board makes its decision about a proposal, the Executive Director communicates this decision within days.

Stark 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 Church of Christ (Christian Disciples) Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Church of Christ (Christian Disciples) Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to help students who have permanent residence in Carroll County, Ohio or had a permanent residence on the date they began their post high school education.

Lois Roth Foundation

The Lois Roth Foundation honors the life and work of Lois Wersba Roth. Since 1987, it has sought to promote and encourage dialogue across national, linguistic and cultural boundaries, with an emphasis on the humanities, arts and social sciences. Foundation programs are conducted in collaboration with a range of partners and focused on three domains: Fulbright & Academic Collaborations, Cultural Diplomacy, and Literature & Translation.

Cultural Diplomacy

In recollection of Lois Roth’s efforts to promote cross‐cultural understanding and cooperation as a US Foreign Service Officer, the Roth Foundation partners with the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) (US State Department), to provide the department’s four awards honoring excellence in the field of cultural and educational diplomacy.

The types of qualities displayed by recipients of Roth Foundation cultural diplomacy awards include:

• Cross‐cultural sensitivity and understanding for all—regardless of age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin or disability—and the courage and intellectual integrity to bring alternate facts and opinions into open conversation
• Ingenuity and imagination in creating projects, programs and products to deepen the contact between foreign intellectuals, artists and professionals and their US counterparts
• Familiarity with global affairs and foreign languages, to deepen substantive discussion between US and foreign intellectuals, scholars and professionals
• Patience, wisdom and generosity in helping new colleagues, both international and US, develop their careers
• Special skill in promoting collaborations between US and foreign institutions and high‐quality exchange opportunities with the civil sector.

Jodie Lewinsohn Career Achievement Award

The Jodie Lewinsohn Career Achievement Award honors the most accomplished and longest-serving Locally Employed Staff members, particularly those who are nearing retirement. It is named for a distinguished U.S. Information Agency Foreign Service Officer who was a close friend and mentor to Lois Roth and who also served as the head of the Public Affairs Section at the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa, when Gill Jacot-Guillarmod was working there. In 2022, Jodie left a legacy in her will to endow this award in perpetuity. This award recognizes those who are nearing the end of their careers for long-standing dedication to their work and their success in what Gill described as “helping the United States while helping your own country.” 

Nomination Process

Every spring, the Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs will internally circulate details regarding nominations for the four Lois Roth Foundation Awards. State Department supervisors are invited to submit nominations in all four categories.