Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Kansas

The Starseed Foundation Grant offers support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on enhancing the arts, environmental protection, literacy, and social services. Grants are available to organizations throughout the United States, with a specific emphasis on programs based in Oregon. Interested parties must first submit a Letter of Inquiry to be considered for funding. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for underserved communities through cultural and educational enrichment.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

The California Casualty Music & Arts Grant supports K-12 public schools facing budget cuts that threaten their music and arts programs. Eligible applicants, who must be active employees of public K-12 schools and members of specified educator associations, can request grants of $250 for music or arts needs. This initiative aims to enhance creative education across the states, excluding AK, HI, MA, MI, NY, and WI. Applications received by July 15 will be notified by November 30.

The SFS Fellows Grant, awarded by the Society for Freshwater Science, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater science research, policy, or management. Each year, up to four fellows are selected based on their sustained excellence and leadership within the field. This initiative also encourages diversity by promoting nominations from underrepresented groups and mid-career professionals. The grant fosters collaboration and participation in SFS activities, enhancing the impact of freshwater science.

Casey’s Donation Requests support vital community needs in Education, Hunger, and Community Servants. Eligible 501(c)3 organizations within Casey’s communities can apply through the online Donation Request Form. Requests are reviewed continuously, with feedback provided via email within one month. Priority is given to organizations that haven't received donations in the current giving calendar year, which runs from May 1 to April 30.

The PACF Mini Grants program, established by the Parsons Area Community Foundation, provides crucial financial support to non-profit projects within a 25-mile radius of Parsons. With awards typically not exceeding $2,500, the program empowers schools, churches, government entities, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits to implement impactful initiatives. This initiative, funded by the Pete & Mary Hughes Impact Fund, aims to strengthen community ties and enhance the quality of life for local residents, ensuring lasting benefits for future generations.

The Anchor QEA Scholarship supports graduate students pursuing degrees in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, with awards between $1,000 and $10,000. This program emphasizes helping those in financial need, particularly focusing on BIPOC students to address inequities in STEM. Eligible candidates must demonstrate a commitment to community service and possess an inclusive mindset. This initiative reflects Anchor QEA's dedication to fostering a diverse and equitable educational environment.

The Jay L. Smith Family Foundation provides grants to tax-exempt non-profit organizations in the United States, primarily focusing on healthcare, family values, and supporting the disadvantaged. With a strong commitment to Alzheimer's research, the foundation has funded various initiatives including elderly care, domestic violence prevention, and cancer research. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities through meaningful contributions, aiming to address critical social issues and promote well-being.

The Jones/Goddard Scholarship Fund for Public Health offers a $750 scholarship to postgraduate students enrolled in a Master of Public Health program at accredited schools in Missouri or Kansas. Applicants must submit a letter of good standing, describe their work experience, and provide an essay along with a letter of recommendation. This initiative aims to support future public health leaders and enhance community well-being.

Who we are

The Kansas Historical Society, established in 1875, is a state agency. Designated as the trustee of the state in 1879 and as the repository of official government records in 1905, the Historical Society collects and preserves the story of Kansas history.

Historic Preservation Fund

The Kansas State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) administers the Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) to finance local preservation activities that will contribute to planning for the preservation of the built environment and archeological resources. Up to 60 percent of the cost of eligible activities can be funded through this program. Through property identification and evaluation, communities may assess their historic properties and develop plans for their recognition and preservation.

The Historic Preservation Fund (HPF) is a grant program administered by the National Park Service (NPS). Funds for the HPF program are derived from Outer Continental Shelf mineral receipts. Each year the NPS provides the Kansas State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) with funds that finance its operations, salaries, and grants. Ten percent of those grant funds awarded to the SHPO must be passed through to Certified Local Governments (CLGs) per federal regulations. The SHPO awards additional grant monies to cities, counties, universities, and other eligible organizations, to help support local historic preservation activities when funding levels permit. Grants reimburse up to 60% of project costs.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

Who we are

The Kansas Historical Society, established in 1875, is a state agency. Designated as the trustee of the state in 1879 and as the repository of official government records in 1905, the Historical Society collects and preserves the story of Kansas history.

Heritage Trust Fund

The Heritage Trust Fund (HTF) is a state program that provides matching funds for the preservation of properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places or the Register of Historic Kansas Places. The HTF reimburses expenses for projects that preserve or restore historic properties. Qualifying expenses include professional fees and construction costs. Individual grant awards may not exceed $100,000 and must be matched by the grant recipient (80/20). Yearly grant rounds are highly competitive.

Informational HTF grant workshops are held each year to provide applicants with step-by-step instruction on filling out the HTF grant application. 

How much can an applicant receive for one project?

An applicant can receive between $5,000 and $100,000. For-profit corporations must provide a dollar-fordollar (50/50) match and other grant recipients shall provide 20 percent of the cost of eligible project activities as match. In-kind services and indirect costs are not accepted as a matching share. Please note that the applicant’s cash match is eligible for rehabilitation tax credits – provided the match amount exceeds $5,000. 

Rob-See-Co is an independent seed company with regional expertise, providing customers access to leading genetics and traits through the Rob-See-Co and Innotech® seed brands. Rob-See-Co also sells Masters Choice specialty silage and forage products, as well as Streamline Ag seed-driven crop inputs. Rob-See-Co works alongside its customers, building strong relationships and helping them plant the right seed for their long-term success, while keeping the process friendly, straightforward, and simple. 

Rob-See-Co Library Grant

In recognition of National Library Day, Rob-See-Co, an independent seed company located in Elkhorn, Neb. is proud to announce the continuation of its Rural Library Grant program.

Originally launched in 2023 to commemorate the company’s 10th anniversary and honor Agnes Robinson’s dedication to the rural library in Waterloo, NE, the program continues to hold special meaning. Agnes, great-grandmother of Jim Robinson, CEO of Rob-See-Co, was a passionate advocate for rural libraries. Today, the program extends support to libraries across rural communities within the company’s footprint. 

The focus areas for grant distributions from the Rob-See-Co Rural Library Grant program will assist local libraries with expanding book collections, core educational programs for adults or children, and computer or software upgrades. Examples of this would be new books, expansion of school visits or field trips, digitizing research materials, support for funding traveling exhibits and speakers.

Rob-See-Co will award ten grants to selected rural libraries across CO, IA, KS, MD, MI, MN, ND, NE, OH, OK, PA, SD, TX and WI. Funds may be used for core educational, preservation and interpretive purposes, including collection development, facility improvements, traveling exhibits, guest speakers, staff training, programming, and publications. 

The Walker Charitable Foundation provides funding for charitable, religious, scientific, literary, and educational endeavors. Organizations must contact the Foundation at least 30 days prior to grant submission to discuss eligibility. The Foundation aims to support as many worthy organizations as possible, guided by its Executive Director and Board, primarily consisting of Walker family members. Over the years, it has proudly funded numerous organizations that have made significant contributions to their communities.

The Von Voigtlander Family Foundation Grant, though currently closed, aims to support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, primarily in Michigan. The foundation emphasizes animal welfare, parks preservation, veteran support, and youth empowerment. Their mission is to enhance lives through community-focused initiatives that foster resilience, education, and well-being. They prioritize charities that promote responsible pet ownership, outdoor recreation, and provide resources for veterans and youth, ensuring a positive impact across multiple sectors.

The Alleghany Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) organization in Virginia, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the Alleghany Highlands through strategic funding initiatives. It seeks grant applications that address key areas such as economic transformation, educational excellence, health and wellness, community capacity, and civic leadership. By prioritizing innovative projects and supporting local organizations, the Foundation aims to foster sustainable growth and community engagement, ensuring a vibrant future for the region.

The Dwane & Velma Wallace Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations in Wichita, Kansas, focusing on areas such as arts, education, community development, social services, and quality of life. Grants are available to entities that enhance community welfare, but requests for fundraising events, operating deficits, and individual scholarships are not eligible. The foundation aims to empower local organizations to create a positive impact, reflecting the legacy of Dwane and Velma Wallace.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Brian's Fund Scholarship

Brian’s Fund Scholarship will be awarded to an eighth grader who has been accepted at one of the following Kansas City Catholic high schools: Bishop Miege High School, Bishop Ward, Cristo Rey, Notre Dame De Sion, Rockhurst High School, St. James Academy, St. Michael the Archangel, St. Pius X, St. Teresa’s Academy or St Thomas Aquinas.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

American Truck Historical Society: Louis Semple Clarke Educational Fund

The American Truck Historical Society’s Louis Semple Clarke Educational Fund scholarship provides one (1) annual scholarship to graduating high school seniors or undergraduates who intend to further their education at a two-year or four-year accredited U.S. college or university or vocational/technical school that have certification programs.

Financial need, community service, and extracurricular activities will also be taken into consideration. Applicants are restricted to Autocar Company employees and family members (child, stepchild, or grandchild). Preference for all scholarships will be given to applicants pursuing positions in the trucking or transportation industry.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in equal payments.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Mary J. Weber Memorial Scholarship Fund

The purpose of the Mary J. Weber Scholarship Fund is to provide scholarships to high school graduates who intend to further their education at a two-year or four-year college or university or trade/technical school. Preference will be given to graduates of Shawnee Mission Northwest High School in Shawnee Mission, Kansas, and Andale High School in Andale, Kansas. The Fund is established in memory of Mary J. Weber, a 1960 graduate of Andale High School.

Scholarships are not automatically renewable, however scholarship recipients may re-apply in years after their initial receipt of the scholarship.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Kris Paper Legacy Scholarship for Women in Technology Fund

The Kris Paper Legacy Scholarship for Women in Technology Fund provides an annual scholarship to a graduating female high school senior or returning female college student who intends to further their education at a two-year or four-year college or university or at a vocational or technical school who share Kris Paper’s love of technology and will be seeking a degree in a technology related field.

Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) 

Founded in 1967, the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) is a national community of academic leaders committed to developing an accomplished family medicine workforce, prepared to serve as the foundation of America’s health care system. Our members include physicians, PAs, nurse practitioners, behavioral health specialists, researchers, pharmacists, nurses and other health care professionals, health system executives, administrators, coordinators, fellows, residents, students, and others involved in the education of family physicians. 

The Practice Recognition Award for Teaching Excellence

The STFM Precepting Awards recognize teaching contributions by individuals and teaching practices. Medical schools and residency programs can nominate teachers and teaching practices that meet the criteria. The awards are intended for those who precept students, particularly community preceptors/practices.

Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) 

Founded in 1967, the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) is a national community of academic leaders committed to developing an accomplished family medicine workforce, prepared to serve as the foundation of America’s health care system. Our members include physicians, PAs, nurse practitioners, behavioral health specialists, researchers, pharmacists, nurses and other health care professionals, health system executives, administrators, coordinators, fellows, residents, students, and others involved in the education of family physicians. 

The Master Preceptor Award

The STFM Precepting Awards recognize teaching contributions by individuals and teaching practices. Medical schools and residency programs can nominate teachers and teaching practices that meet the criteria. The awards are intended for those who precept students, particularly community preceptors/practices.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

American Truck Historical Scholarship Fund

The American Truck Historical Society’s George Schroyer Memorial Scholarship Fund provides two (2) annual scholarships, and the Cummins Scholarship provides one (1) scholarship to graduating high school seniors or undergraduates who intend to further their education at a two-year or four-year accredited U.S. college or university or vocational/technical school that have certification programs.

Financial need, community service, and extracurricular activities will also be taken into consideration. Applicants must be family members (child, stepchild, or grandchild) of current members in good standing for 2 years of the American Truck Historical Society. Preference for all scholarships will be given to applicants pursuing positions in the trucking or transportation industry.

Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) 

Founded in 1967, the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) is a national community of academic leaders committed to developing an accomplished family medicine workforce, prepared to serve as the foundation of America’s health care system. Our members include physicians, PAs, nurse practitioners, behavioral health specialists, researchers, pharmacists, nurses and other health care professionals, health system executives, administrators, coordinators, fellows, residents, students, and others involved in the education of family physicians. 

STFM Resident Teacher Award

The Resident Teacher Award recognizes teaching contributions by residents. Each family medicine residency program can give this award annually to the resident who has best demonstrated interest in and commitment to family medicine education.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Carlson Family Educational Foundation Fund

The purpose of this scholarship fund is to assist students who plan to attend junior college, trade schools, university or certification training who have demonstrated a strong work ethic both inside and outside the classroom.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Brandmeyer Scholarship

The Brandmeyer Scholarship provides financial assistance to students who have faced adversity and view education as a tool to help change the trajectory of their lives. Our scholars are seeking a brighter future by continuing their education at a two-year or four-year college or university (pursuing an associate, undergraduate and/or graduate degree) or at a vocational or technical school.

The Brandmeyer Scholarships are renewable provided students maintain a 3.0+ GPA each semester and give back by completing at least 10 hours of community service annually.