Best Leadership Development Grants

The Chicago Community Trust

As our region’s community foundation, The Chicago Community Trust is a platform for change that connects philanthropy to impact. We bring together generous donors, committed organizations, and caring residents to effect lasting change that moves our entire region forward.

Community & Civic Leadership – Collective Power & Policy Change

This funding opportunity will support organizations and leadership programs that cultivate community and public sector leaders who are ready to advance efforts that build wealth and improve opportunities for all Chicagoans.

Priority Strategies & Activities

This funding opportunity will support organizations or programs that identify, train and promote leaders within all sectors—public, private and nonprofit—at “grassroots” and “grasstops” levels. Organizations that receive grant support under this funding opportunity will train and support the following types of leaders:  

• Emerging community leaders that include, but are not limited to, parents, young adults, low-wage workers, community organizers, and early career professionals.
• Established leaders working in nonprofit, civic, policy, or public-serving roles who are no longer considered early career professionals.   
• Leaders with lived experience who represent communities most proximate to the issues or have experienced the systems in need of reform first-hand. 

Our Mission

Our mission is to empower Appalachian Kentucky communities to thrive through collaboration, asset building, and leadership development.

We bring together people, ideas, and resources to build communities and encourage philanthropy. Our approach is to meet communities where they are instead of telling them where they should be. 

Appalachian Kentucky Civic Experiment Grant Program

The Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky is excited to announce the launch of the Appalachian Kentucky Civic Experiment Grant Program, a new funding opportunity created to support neighbors, organizations, and community leaders who have ideas to strengthen civic life and address local challenges across Appalachian Kentucky.

Grant proposals will be reviewed based on:

• New or creative ideas that respond to real community needs
• Positive community impact, with clear benefits for local people
• Alignment with shared values like community, equity, integrity, service, and hope
• A realistic plan that shows how the project will get done
• Long-term benefit, including how the work could continue or inspire others

Alliance for Social Trust: Trust in Practice Awards

Trust is the foundation of vibrant, resilient communities and healthy civic life. Across the country, local and national organizations are demonstrating the profound ways trust shapes our collective well-being—strengthening relationships between neighbors, cultivating confidence in institutions, and enabling people to work together to solve shared challenges. These efforts are often rooted in the knowledge and leadership of those closest to the work. 

The Trust in Practice Awards support non-profit organizations that are collaborating on new initiatives to build trust across local or virtual communities. Grantees will be part of a national network dedicated to fostering trust through the Alliance for Social Trust’s programs and storytelling platforms. Award recipients will also participate in the annual Trust in Practice Summit to celebrate the work of trust builders.

Cooperative Leaders and Scholars Program

The Cooperative Leaders and Scholars (CLS) provides cross-sector leadership development and builds professional networks for new and emerging cooperative leaders and scholars. This 8-month fellowship provides opportunities to participate in multi-sector programming and events, and to engage with thought leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholders. This community empowers and trains its fellows to build a more inclusive economy in North America, together. The experience is open to new and emerging cooperators: current employees or board members, post-secondary students, or others interested in working for, creating, or leading a cooperative or cooperative organization.

Designed to deepen and broaden knowledge of cooperatives and the role the model plays in meeting economic and social needs of communities, the program is structured to empower participants to shape their experience for maximum value as they connect and collaborate with peers and industry experts.

As a participant, you will:

• Participate in an 8-month program designed to deepen and broaden your knowledge of cooperatives and the role of the co-op model in meeting the economic and social needs of communities
• Be a part of a community that can provide ongoing peer support and professional development opportunities
• Co-create a capstone project 
• Participate in exclusive networking events 
• Learn from industry experts in a series of webinars
• Get to know the cohort in-person at a weeklong event in Hudson Valley, NY and NYC from April 20- 24 that will include co-op tours and training workshops. 
• Attend a weeklong event in Washington, DC from October 5 - 9 featuring NCBA CLUSA's Co-op IMPACT Conference, CDF's Cooperative Hall of Fame reception and induction ceremony, a one-day course from the International Centre for Co-operative Management at Saint Mary's University, and co-op tours.

Fellowship includes:

• Registrations for the Co-op IMPACT Conference, Cooperative Hall of Fame, and International Centre for Co-operative Management at Saint Mary's University course
• Hudson Valley, NY, NYC, and Washington, DC co-op tours
• Access to exclusive networking events and webinars from industry experts
• Peer-to-Peer and Mentor-to-Mentee opportunities
• Travel stipend ($1,000 total), accommodations, and meals for two in-person events
• $30 metro card for Washington, DC
• $600 honorarium

The Corry Community Foundation, established in 2000, was created through the vision and generosity of local families who aimed to improve the quality of life for residents of Corry. This private foundation awards Standard Grants biannually, providing funding for initiatives that address community issues. With a minimum request amount of $3,500, the application deadlines are set for March 1 and September 1, ensuring ongoing support for charitable endeavors in the community.

The Corry Community Foundation Mini Grants program, established in 2000, aims to enhance the quality of life for residents of Corry, Pennsylvania. With grants of up to $3,500 awarded bimonthly, the foundation addresses community issues through local philanthropy. Founded by A. Bruce and Arlene Smith, it empowers local residents to control fund allocation. Application deadlines are set for January, March, May, July, September, and November, ensuring ongoing support for community initiatives.

The Center for Native American Youth (CNAY) Fellowship empowers Native youth leaders aged 18-24 through tailored training in sovereignty, leadership, and advocacy. It provides resources for community action projects and fosters intergenerational learning. The program includes three distinct cohorts focusing on environmental stewardship, advocacy for missing and murdered Indigenous people, and policy networking. Over nine months, participants enhance their skills and amplify their voices, becoming engaged community advocates while forming a supportive network.

The John E Langhorne Leadership Grant, established by the Community Foundation of Johnson County, honors Dr. Langhorne’s legacy by funding leadership development initiatives in the Iowa City Area. Grants of up to $5,000 support programs for all ages that enhance unique leadership skills. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 nonprofits and municipalities serving Johnson County. The foundation, with nearly $67 million in assets, has a history of impactful giving, ensuring community needs are met through sustainable change.

The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation aims to foster human development in West Virginia and Southwestern Pennsylvania by strategically distributing charitable resources. Guided by principles of collaboration and innovation, the Foundation supports community development and health initiatives. Their focus includes enhancing health care accessibility, promoting leadership, and addressing social determinants of health. They prioritize projects that engage diverse community members and encourage cross-sector collaboration to maximize impact and sustainability in these regions.

The Bernard and Audre Rapoport Foundation, established in 1987, has invested over $70 million in grants to enhance community life through education, arts, health, and social services. The Foundation focuses on innovative solutions to persistent challenges, supporting projects primarily in Waco, Texas, while also engaging in discretionary funding for broader initiatives. Its mission emphasizes building resilience and fostering civic participation, ensuring that programs enrich lives, particularly for underserved populations.

The Partnership Fund Grant by the Bush Foundation is designed for unique funding needs that do not align with existing programs. It aims to address pressing community challenges in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and 23 Native nations. This fund facilitates collaboration with other funders, attracts additional resources, and provides seed funding for initiatives that resonate with the foundation's strategic values, ensuring impactful community development.

The CNN Small Grants Program, now in its 16th year, empowers grassroots organizations in D1EC to address community needs through collaborative projects. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $4,000 and a total funding of up to $40,000, this program provides essential resources, training, and support to strengthen community ties. By fostering connections among neighbors, it helps enhance living, working, and recreational spaces for future generations.

The Banks Baldwin Foundation, established in 1994, supports community initiatives that enhance education and the arts, promote self-sufficiency, and foster leadership among youth. With a focus on active citizenship, the foundation encourages nonprofit organizations to apply for funding to drive positive change in their communities. The foundation's board meets annually to review proposals and make grant decisions, ensuring that their mission aligns with the needs of the communities they serve.

The Cyrus M. Quigley Foundation Grant supports tax-exempt organizations that empower young people through initiatives focusing on courage, self-reliance, and service. Since its inception in 1993, the foundation has awarded over $300,000 in grants, with amounts ranging from $1,000 to $7,500. The foundation emphasizes physical challenges and community service to help develop essential life skills. Grant proposals are accepted annually until the third Friday in April, with decisions communicated by May 31.

The Aaron Straus and Lillie Straus Foundation focuses on enhancing opportunities for Baltimore families through education, health services, and community engagement. Since its establishment in 1926, it has prioritized support for Jewish communities, immigration advocacy, and social innovation. The foundation aims to connect families to resources that foster resilience and growth, ensuring they can thrive in a supportive environment. By investing in local initiatives and emerging leaders, the foundation seeks to create lasting impact in the Baltimore region.

The Oliver Dewey Mayor Foundation Grant supports charitable and educational initiatives in Mayes County, Oklahoma, and Grayson County, Texas. Grants are primarily awarded to local institutions and organizations, fostering community development through programs that benefit the largest population, youth activities, medical programs, and leadership training. The Foundation favors projects with matching funds and community commitment. However, it does not fund scholarships, religious organizations, or projects that duplicate services in the area.

The Mary K. Chapman Foundation Grant supports various program areas, including arts, education, healthcare, and social services, primarily in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Colorado Springs, Colorado. Eligible projects may focus on community enhancement and nature conservation. Funding can be used for general operations, capital needs, and capacity building. However, event sponsorships and support for individuals are not eligible. Applications must be submitted by the first of the month prior to board meetings held quarterly.

The Wean Foundation's Resident Engagement Grants aim to boost community engagement by funding grassroots organizations in Warren and Youngstown. Grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 support initiatives that prioritize race equity and inclusion, enhance resident participation, and leverage local resources. Participation in a prerequisite workshop is required, ensuring that funded projects align with the foundation's commitment to sustainable community development and racial equity. For more information, visit the Wean Foundation's website.

The Wean Foundation's Community Investment Grants support organizations that prioritize resident engagement and address racial equity challenges in the Mahoning Valley. With grants starting at $5,000, they focus on community revitalization, economic and educational opportunities, and civic leadership. Eligible organizations must demonstrate nonprofit status, mission alignment, and capacity to implement viable solutions. The foundation aims to foster sustainable change through funding that reflects the community's demographics and needs.

The TFF Annual Grant Program supports nonprofit organizations, school districts, and government agencies in Illinois, particularly in counties like Adams and Brown. The program includes rolling grants for requests under $25,000 and cycle grants for larger amounts. Organizations must complete an Interest Form to apply, with opportunities for funding focused on education, families, youth, mental health, and local community needs. The program aims to foster impactful projects that benefit the community.

Mission

The Sherwood Foundation® promotes equity through social justice initiatives enhancing the quality of life in Nebraska.

Vision

We believe social justice is the proactive reinforcement of policies, practices, attitudes, and actions that all produce equitable power, access, opportunities, treatment, impacts, and outcomes for all.

Who We Fund

The Sherwood Foundation limits grants to organizations that are tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3), government entities, schools, or churches that are serving Nebraska. These organizations must be in good standing with the Internal Revenue Service. 

What We Fund

The Sherwood Foundation limits grants to nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations that predominately benefit those that are serving Nebraska and must address one of our categories:

Urban Community Partnerships

Our work in Nebraska’s urban communities focuses on family stability and child wellbeing with an overarching emphasis on community context. Using a two-generation approach, we are interested in the relationship between direct service provision and the greater systems that impact a community. Applicants are wise to cite specific research that influences a service model or approach to solving a community challenge.

Omaha Public Schools

Guidelines: 

• OPS employees must obtain approval from the District before submitting an application. 
• Applications lacking such documentation will not receive consideration.
• For assistance, please contact the OPS Grant Coordinator at 531.299.9653.

Greater Nebraska Initiatives

Through these grants, The Sherwood Foundation promotes equity and inclusion as pathways for creating the good life for all in Nebraska.  Core areas of work include child welfare, immigrant inclusion, housing, advocacy & civic engagement, leadership, and community infrastructure. Requests from communities outside of the Omaha and Lincoln metro areas are considered during standard grant cycles.

Early Childhood Education

The Sherwood Foundation supports early childhood education on a regional and national basis through The Buffett Early Childhood Fund.

What the Sherwood Foundation Values

 The Sherwood Foundation has strongly held values regarding civil liberties, equality and fairness with a particular focus on women and people oppressed because of their race, sexual orientation, and/or religion or lack-thereof.

• We respect that not all nonprofit organizations share the same values as the Foundation.
• We don’t ask nonprofits to change values for us or for funding.
• We do ask that nonprofits leaders respect our values and save everyone time and energy by not seeking funding if our organizational values aren’t aligned.

Equal rights.

We believe all humans are created equal. We work to eliminate government and social barriers to equality.

Access to civic life.

We are proud to live in a democracy and believe that the rights provided to individuals in the United States should be protected and the best way to protect those rights is to ensure equal access to the voting polls. 

Reproductive justice.

We support a woman’s right to self-determination about reproductive health choices. We expect our grantees serving women and girls to ensure access and education to all health care options, including abortion. 

Opportunity to thrive.

We believe a zip code should not determine the outcome of a life. We see how government institutions and laws have historically and do presently oppress and suppress opportunity, particularly for people of color but also other minority populations and women. We work with our community to undo systemic oppression and build systems that meet the needs of citizens and do not further oppress. We seek economic justice for our neighbors and the opportunity that lies therein.

Access to services.

We expect grantees to ensure that clients have access to services and that service providers work to remove barriers rather than create barriers to care and compassion. A service provider’s religious belief system should not be imposed upon those who seek their services, whether through proselytization, coercion, guilt, or an unspoken quid-pro-quo expectation to participate in faith-based classes or religious services.

Operating Grants

The Sherwood Foundation® believes that providing operating support can make all the difference to nonprofit organizations by providing flexible funding to cover the ongoing costs of day-to-day operations (administrative/overhead). This type of support can free nonprofits to become more strategic about how they address community issues, craft internal solutions to enhance effectiveness, and build organizational infrastructure.

The Community Foundation of West Texas offers the Community Funds Grant, designed to support a variety of community needs through targeted funding. Grants range from $1,000 to $10,000, focusing on areas such as Civic Development, Education, and Basic Needs. Organizations within the 15-county South Plains region that are 501(c)(3) or equivalent can apply, with the goal of alleviating poverty and creating pathways for individuals and families in need.

The Grable Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the lives of children in the Pittsburgh area by supporting early learning, public education, out-of-school programs, and community resources. By investing in innovative educational initiatives and family-friendly activities, the foundation strives to create an environment where children can thrive, explore, and reach their full potential. Their work fosters collaboration among educators, families, and community organizations to ensure every child has access to high-quality learning experiences and support.

The Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations serving Hampden County, Massachusetts. Funding areas include early education, health, economic mobility, and arts. The Foundation supports general operating, capital, program, capacity building, and emergency funding to foster community development and address pressing needs. Eligible organizations must demonstrate measurable outcomes and a commitment to sustainable change while enhancing collaboration among local nonprofits.

The Grotto Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the well-being of individuals and families through community-led initiatives in Minnesota. Organizations can apply if they address at least three of four key areas: Youth Development, Postsecondary Success, Community Safety & Neighborhood Development, and Mentoring. The Foundation invites selected organizations to apply, with grant decisions made three times a year, fostering sustainable solutions for local challenges.

The Civic Engagement for Social Change Initiatives Grant Program, managed by the Catherine Donnelly Foundation, aims to foster active citizenship and community transformation through innovative adult education. It supports projects that empower marginalized groups to address social issues like racism and poverty by developing critical skills and strategies for change. This initiative seeks to create a more just and sustainable society in Canada through participatory civic engagement and popular education processes.

The WSFS Foundation Grant aims to support nonprofit organizations focused on enhancing community investment, providing affordable housing, and promoting education and leadership development. The foundation emphasizes initiatives that are innovative and sustainable, fostering diversity and inclusion. Eligible organizations must align with the foundation's vision and demonstrate a commitment to non-discrimination. This grant encourages programs that improve the quality of life and economic well-being within the communities it serves.