Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Maryland

The Ashland County Wildlife Conservation League David McClure Memorial Scholarship supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools and alternative education programs pursuing a degree in wildlife-related fields. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be accepted into accredited colleges or vocational programs. This scholarship fosters educational growth while promoting conservation efforts, reflecting the commitment of the Ashland County Community Foundation to enhance community development and support future leaders in wildlife conservation.

The Dunkin' Joyful Spaces Grant supports children's hospitals and community health centers in creating joyful environments for pediatric patients. Launched in 2022, this initiative helps fund play areas, healing gardens, and other kid-friendly spaces, enhancing the hospital experience. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $65,000 annually, with a maximum of $150,000 over three years. This opportunity encourages creativity in designing spaces that provide comfort and joy to children and their families during hospital stays.

Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation Inc supports independent medical education to enhance healthcare professional competence and improve patient health outcomes. Their mission is to be a global leader in innovative medical education, focusing on evidence-based activities that address critical gaps in knowledge. By fostering excellence in healthcare, they aim to ensure measurable improvements in performance and patient outcomes across various disease areas.

The MSAC Arts in Education Grant, offered by the Maryland State Arts Council, supports Maryland-based non-profit organizations and government entities through matching funds for educational programs led by Teaching Artists. This initiative aims to enhance arts education in schools and communities, ensuring financial support is available for engaging artistic experiences. By acting as a financial intermediary, MSAC streamlines payments to Teaching Artists, ensuring they receive the full budgeted amount while fostering a vibrant arts education ecosystem across Maryland.

The Critical Needs List by Community Foundation Tampa Bay addresses urgent, unforeseen needs of nonprofits that threaten their ability to serve the community. This innovative program allows nonprofits to submit requests for funding up to $250,000 for critical expenses such as emergency repairs and essential equipment replacement. With a focus on supporting local organizations, the program aims to match funding with community philanthropists, ensuring timely assistance to those in need.

The MSAC Folklife Network Grant, administered by the Maryland State Arts Council, supports organizations that function as regional folklife centers throughout Maryland. This funding aims to identify, document, and present the living cultural traditions of the state’s diverse communities, fostering collaboration and cultural engagement. Established following recommendations from folklife experts, this program highlights the importance of preserving Maryland's rich cultural heritage through various artistic initiatives.

The President’s Innovation Award at Johns Hopkins University recognizes a promising early-to-mid career faculty member each year, providing $250,000 to support their innovative research aimed at solving societal problems. This award, which does not require a specific business proposal, fosters the recipient’s ability to translate scientific discoveries into real-world applications, enhancing their career during crucial developmental years. It builds on existing commercialization support, empowering faculty to advance their innovations in the marketplace.

The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in Maryland provide federal funding to organizations aiding low-income families in constructing their homes. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and federally-recognized Tribes. The grants facilitate technical assistance and supervisory support during the construction process, empowering families to contribute labor to their housing projects. This initiative promotes self-sufficiency and community development in rural areas by enabling families to build homes collaboratively.

Quality Improvement Grant Request for Proposals

Optimizing Maternal RSV Immunization Delivery: A Systems-Based Quality Improvement Initiative to Improve Uptake, Equity, and Newborn Outcomes

Pfizer, in collaboration with the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM), is pleased to announce a competitive grant opportunity to support independent Quality Improvement (QI) initiatives focused on advancing maternal immunization, with a specific emphasis on Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccination during pregnancy.

This initiative builds upon insights generated from the Maternal Immunization Needs Assessment (MINA) project, a multi-stakeholder collaboration that identified persistent clinical, behavioral, and system-level gaps in the delivery and uptake of maternal vaccines.

We seek to fund projects that implement measurable, evidence-based interventions to improve real-world delivery of maternal RSV immunization across healthcare systems and care settings. Proposed initiatives should aim to optimize access, strengthen provider–patient communication training and tools, enhance care coordination, and address structural and behavioral barriers impacting vaccine uptake and equity.

Pfizer Global Medical Grants (GMG) supports the global healthcare community’s independent initiatives (e.g., research, quality improvement or education) to improve patient outcomes in areas of unmet medical need that are aligned with Pfizer’s medical and/or scientific strategies. Pfizer’s GMG competitive grant program involves a publicly posted Request for Proposal (RFP) that provides detail regarding a specific area of interest, sets timelines for review and approval, and uses an expert review panel (ERP) to make final grant decisions. Organizations are invited to submit an application addressing the specific gaps in clinical practice or care as outlined in the specific RFP.

For all QI grants, the applicant (and ultimately the grantee) will be solely responsible for the design, implementation, and conduct of the proposed initiative. Pfizer will have no involvement in project development, execution, or outcomes.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5416 - Innovative Approaches to Extend Lifetime and Minimize O&M for Nature-based Installations

Grant Information

• Identify and evaluate innovative design, construction, and management approaches that extend the functional lifetime of nature-based installations and reduce ongoing operations and maintenance (O&M) requirements.
• Develop practical guidance on key factors affecting nature-based solution (NbS) longevity, including hydraulic optimization, engineered media selection and replacement, plant selection, sediment management, and construction-phase best practices.
• Survey utilities and other NbS owners to document current maintenance practices, costs, and hours, and establish benchmarks to inform targets for improvement.

The F26AS00104 State ANS Management Plan 2026 aims to combat aquatic nuisance species through pre-proposals followed by full applications. Managed by the US Department of the Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service, this initiative requires a 25% cost-share and limits administrative costs to 5%. Applications are due by October 14, 2026, though the funding opportunity closes on December 16, 2026. The plan is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting a coordinated national approach to invasive species management.

The IAC Mission

The mission of the Interagency Commission on School Construction is to achieve a safe, healthy, and educationally sufficient learning environment for every child attending a public school in Maryland. Our vision is a fiscally sustainable statewide portfolio of Pre-K-12 school facilities that will remain educationally sufficient for current and future generations of students and teachers.

Built to Learn Program

Purpose

Provides for up to $2.2 billion in school construction project funding through Maryland Stadium Authority (MSA) issued special revenue bonds and provides for management of the projects by MSA.

Minimum Project Cost: $4,000,000

Funding Allocation Methods

• Calculated allocations based on estimated bond proceeds are set for Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Frederick County, Howard County, and Montgomery County.
• The other 17 LEAs share the remainder of the allocations, capped in proportion to their September 2019 enrollments.
• Maximum State Allocation is established for individual projects.
• Funding allocations must be used within 10 years of award.

State/Local Participation: State/Local cost share % applied

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5424 - Adaptive Control Frameworks to Unlock Full-Scale BNR Potential

Grant Information

• Identify and categorize the dominant failure modes of current aeration and process control implementations under real-world operating conditions.
• Develop guidance on data and instrumentation requirements for utilities to support adaptive control, including the characterization of existing sensor infrastructure and the use of soft sensors where hard sensors are limited.
• Develop practical adaptive control frameworks and implementation guidance that utilities can deploy without dependence on proprietary black-box tools or specialized data science expertise, including hybrid approaches that augment conventional controls with data-driven models (e.g., artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML), digital twins) for variable flow and concentration conditions.
• Benchmark control performance against biological capacity indicators across multiple full-scale facilities to quantify the gap between achievable and realized biological nutrient removal (BNR) performance.

Thome Aging Well Grant Program

As communities navigate rapid shifts in resources, rising housing and living costs, and other emerging challenges, this final round of Thome Aging Well funding aims to assist organizations that are supporting older adults through these uncertain times. These flexible, one-year grants are designed to bolster housing-based programs, services, and supports that safeguard the health, stability, and well-being of older adults during this moment of change.

Award

• Up to $200,000

This funding opportunity aims to provide flexible support to affordable housing organizations and past Enterprise Thome Aging Well grantees to respond to the urgent or emerging needs of their residents or clients with effective solutions. Eligible organizations must serve older adults (aged 55 and older) with lower incomes living in Michigan and Maryland.

Grants will have a one-year period of performance.

The County Arts Development Grant supports Maryland's county arts agencies through a structured funding formula, ensuring equitable distribution of resources to foster local arts activities. With two application cycles, agencies can apply for funding every three years, promoting community engagement and support for diverse artistic initiatives. The program emphasizes transparency and accessibility, allowing funds to be used for re-granting, programming, and administrative costs, ultimately benefiting county residents and artists alike.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant for schools to implement the PLTW Biomedical Science program for the 2026-2029 academic years. Eligible schools can receive up to $14,000 to cover participation fees and training costs. This grant encourages public, private, and charter schools across the U.S. to enhance their science curriculum, supporting students with engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Schools must commit to offering specific courses during the grant period to qualify for funding.

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Heather Clair Miller Salisbury State University Fund

The Heather Clair Miller Salisbury State University Fund scholarship was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide four-year, renewable scholarships to at least two students who have faced social, economic, or educational barriers due to systemic gender inequity, who are attending Salisbury University, and who meet minimum entrance requirements.

Award Type: Renewable Award (subject to committee recommendation). 

The EDA Philadelphia FY 2016–FY 2019 Planning Program and Local Technical Assistance Program aims to enhance regional economic development by providing grants for creating and implementing Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS). This initiative supports eligible organizations, including Indian Tribes and District Organizations, to develop plans that foster economic prosperity and job retention in distressed areas. Through various investments, the program strengthens local capacities for effective economic development and job creation.

The Community Foundation of Washington County, MD offers Responsive Grants aimed at fostering collaboration among local nonprofits. The 2025 program prioritizes funding for initiatives that involve at least two partnering organizations to address community needs. Applicants must be based in Washington County and hold a valid 501(c)(3) status. This year's focus is on collaborative programs that demonstrate urgency, innovation, impact, and sustainability, encouraging nonprofits to work together for the greater good.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, initiated by the Arbor Day Foundation, aims to enhance college campuses through tree planting and maintenance. By engaging students and faculty in environmental initiatives, the program promotes sustainability and mental well-being. Participating institutions are recognized for their commitment to community forests, which contribute to energy conservation and climate change mitigation. This framework not only beautifies campuses but also fosters a sense of pride and responsibility among students and staff.

Established in 1969, Program Open Space (POS) Local provides financial and technical assistance to local subdivisions (counties and municipalities) for the planning, acquisition, and/or development of public recreation land or open space areas.

The Special Presenter Initiatives Grants, offered by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation in partnership with various local arts organizations, aim to support the presentation of professional performing artists at small and mid-size community venues. This initiative encourages projects that feature touring artists and includes community engagement activities, fostering meaningful interactions between artists and local audiences. The program seeks to enhance the cultural landscape of the participating jurisdictions through diverse and innovative performances.

The Folk and Traditional Arts Community Projects Grant, offered by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, supports projects that enhance traditional arts and cultures in the mid-Atlantic region. Non-profit organizations can apply for grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, with a required 1:1 match. Eligible activities include performances, workshops, and public art collaborations, particularly those engaging underrepresented communities. This initiative fosters artistic expression and cultural connection across diverse communities.

Description

The Maryland Victims of Crime Fund, administered by the State Board of Victim Services under the authority of the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services, provides for advocacy and support services to victims of crime through the creation of new ideas and the enhancement of existing programs in Maryland.

History

The Maryland Victims of Crime Fund was created by the Maryland General Assembly during the 1991 Legislative Session. This legislation created a source of revenue for programs across Maryland serving victims of crime. The primary purpose of the Fund is to ensure implementation of the Declaration of Crime Victims’ Rights Amendment to the Maryland Constitution and the Federal Guidelines for treatment of and assistance to crime victims and witnesses, along with other laws adopted to benefit victims and witnesses of crime.

State-Aided Institutions (SAI) Field Trip Grant

This grant provides funds to Local Education Agencies (LEAs) to provide transportation to students for field trips to non-profit educational institutions that are qualified as State–Aided Institutions (SAIs). This program is intended to expand student access to enriching educational experiences offered by SAIs. Priority is provided for high-needs schools, being defined in this grant as a school having more than 40% of their enrolled students as receiving or eligible for the federal Free and Reduced Price Meal (FARMs) program.

Funding Amount Available

• $600,000 is available for this grant program.

Estimated Number of Grants

• Will vary based on the number of applications received.

The Southern Equality Research Grant, offered by the Campaign for Southern Equality, aims to empower students and early career researchers to conduct crucial studies on LGBTQ+ issues in the South. With over a third of LGBTQ+ Americans residing in this region, there is a significant need for research to address legal protections and social inequities. This initiative seeks to elevate the voices and experiences of LGBTQ+ Southerners, fostering a deeper understanding of the policies affecting their lives.

The Mid Atlantic Tours Grants program supports presenters in the mid-Atlantic region who engage Roster Artists during their project periods. Eligible presenters can receive up to a 50% subsidy for artist compensation, which includes fees, housing, and travel. The application process is straightforward and non-competitive, but early engagement with the artist's tour manager is advised due to limited funding. This initiative fosters a diverse range of performances and community engagement.