Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Maryland

The Make Your Mark Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, has awarded over $11.9 million since 1983, supporting female and non-binary students in Northeast Connecticut. With awards ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, this scholarship encourages young individuals to pursue their educational goals and seize opportunities for success. Applications are due by August 1, ensuring timely support for students embarking on their academic journeys.

The Mallove Family-William Pedace Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, offers $750 to support New London High School students with strong academic abilities. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships, helping students pursue their educational goals and build successful careers. This scholarship is designed to assist deserving individuals in achieving their dreams by providing financial aid for college expenses.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

John L. & Alice M. Holden Education Endowment Fund

The Holden Endowment Fund was established in 1997 upon the transfer of three trusts administered by Merchants National Bank of Aurora in the name of the couple.

The resulting fund provides income for the educational needs of Aurora students.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

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. 

4-H John J. Mazur, Jr. Memorial 4-H Scholarship

The purpose of John J. Mazur, Jr. Memorial 4-H Scholarship is to provide scholarships for high-school graduates who have participated in Carroll County 4-H programs in livestock and photography.

Lilly Endowment Inc. focuses on enriching the religious lives of Christians in the U.S. by supporting diverse congregations and theological education. It aims to foster community development, youth education, and public understanding of religion. The Endowment prioritizes initiatives that improve life quality in Indiana while considering national projects that align with its mission. Notably, it emphasizes nurturing the faith of young people and ensuring all congregations have capable leaders to meet contemporary challenges.

The Peter Matthews Scholarship, established by the children of Peter Matthews, supports students from Southeastern Connecticut pursuing education at accredited four-year liberal arts colleges. With a generous fund of over $11.9 million awarded since 1983 by the Community Foundation, this scholarship offers approximately $500 to help cover educational expenses. Awards are paid directly to colleges by August 1, fostering a commitment to learning and career development.

The Smith Literary Scholarship, established in memory of Margaret P. Smith, supports literary and historical research for students majoring in History or English Literature. Award amounts range from $2,000 to $5,000, with funds disbursed to colleges by August 1. This scholarship is available to residents within the Community Foundation's 42-town service area, promoting educational opportunities for aspiring writers and researchers.

The Take Note! Antonia Brancia Memorial Scholarship, established in 2007, honors the legacy of Antonia Brancia, a dedicated pediatric audiologist and music lover. Offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, this scholarship supports students from multiple towns who actively participate in music and pursue post-secondary studies in related fields. With an approximate award of $1,000, it aims to foster future talent in music education and performance.

The Helen Wardman Naselli Memorial Fund Grant, established in 1990, supports organizations dedicated to aiding elderly individuals in need. The foundation prioritizes funding for charities in the Washington, DC area that provide care and relief for the aged. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt under the Internal Revenue Code. However, larger charitable organizations reliant on public appeals and grants for individuals or capital projects are ineligible for funding.

Coral Gables Community Foundation

Led by community leaders, the Coral Gables Community Foundation provides the philanthropic conduit to connect individuals and corporations looking to positively impact the success of the community. Now in its 33rd year, the Foundation has been at the forefront of the evolving needs of Coral Gables while effectively bringing together beneficiaries and benefactors to fund programs with the greatest impact and benefit to “The City Beautiful.”

Fain Scholarship

Royal Caribbean Scholarship offers tuition support for children of Royal Caribbean Corporation employees.

TERM: Scholarships are available for undergraduate studies of one to four years and graduate studies of up to two years.

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. 

4-H HTI Contractors 4-H Scholarship

The purpose of the HTI CONTRACTORS 4-H SCHOLARSHIP is to provide scholarships to graduating seniors or students already in college from any Carroll County Public high school accepted or already enrolled at an accredited college or technical school who has participated in the Carroll County 4-H Program for at least three years and has exhibited livestock during that time. The scholarship will be awarded to one male and one female who meet the criteria established for the fund.

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. 

4-H Frank Feeser Memorial Carroll County 4-H/FFA Awardp

The purpose ofthe 4-H Frank Feeser Memorial Carroll County 4-H/FFA Award is to honor the life of FRANKLIN ELLSWORTH FEESER by providing an award to youth who has participated in the Carroll County 4-H or FFA programs specializing and showing excellence in swine knowledge and skills and who meets the criteria established for this award.

The NewSchools: Innovative Schools Grant supports education leaders aiming to create new public and charter schools that address the unique needs of today's students. With funding ranging from $150,000 to $250,000, the grant emphasizes equity and innovative educational models. Applications are encouraged before the December 10, 2024 priority deadline, with the final deadline on January 8, 2025. This initiative seeks to empower diverse communities through transformative educational solutions.

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. 

4-H Danielle Knell Memorial 4-H Scholarship

The purpose of this scholarship is to honor the life of DANIELLE K. KNELL by providing scholarship(s) for college bound students in Carroll County, Maryland who have shown academic achievement and participated in the Carroll County 4-H Horsemanship Programs and who have been accepted at an accredited College, University or Technical School. Applications will also be accepted from continuing students i.e. those already in college from the Carroll County 4-H Horsemanship Programs who meet the criteria established for this scholarship.

The McLaughlin, Delbert & Mary Teaching Scholarship, established by Bill McLaughlin in memory of his parents, supports graduating seniors from the St. Joseph School District pursuing degrees in Education. This fund aids students with a commitment to teaching, weighing financial need alongside academic ability. Managed by the Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri, the scholarship aims to empower future educators and strengthen the community through dedicated teaching professionals.

The Tri Kappa Scholarship - Women's Giving Circle, established by the Crown Point Community Foundation, aims to enhance life quality in South Lake County by providing financial assistance for various community needs. This non-renewable scholarship is open to residents over 21, with the next awards ceremony scheduled for May 7, 2026. The initiative reflects a commitment to maximize charitable impact while honoring donor intentions.

The Isabel Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations that promote the Christian Science faith. Founded by Isabel and C.S. Harding Mott, the foundation primarily funds initiatives such as camps, churches, and nursing facilities that align with these values. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations. Although the foundation appreciates the work of branch churches, they are currently unable to fund their projects. This grant represents a commitment to nurturing the Christian Science community.

Ruth Luka Kaaiahua Prince Scholarship Fund

The fund was established in 2025 to provide scholarship grants to graduates of McKinley High School and Farrington High School seeking higher education.

The Karen and Cornel Raab Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, offers financial support to graduating high school students from Crown Point, Cedar Lake, or Lowell with a minimum GPA of 2.8. This non-renewable scholarship aims to assist students in achieving their educational goals. The foundation oversees over 80 scholarship funds, ensuring resources are allocated to meet the diverse needs of the community.

The Charlotte W. Newcombe Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship supports Ph.D. candidates in the humanities and social sciences with a $31,000 stipend for their final year of dissertation writing. This prestigious fellowship encourages original research that engages with religion, ethics, and values. Candidates must have completed all coursework and preliminary exams, and be in the writing stage of their dissertation. The fellowship aims to alleviate living expenses and is open to students whose work significantly contributes to scholarly discussions in their fields.

Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri Inc. was established in 2009 as a 501(c)3 public charity to help donors support their favorite charities while receiving maximum tax advantage.

We serve as a vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about. Donor gifts will strengthen nonprofits increasing programs and services. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to establish a fund with us. 

St Joseph School District Foundation Steffen, Awalt & Helen Memorial Scholarship

Amount:

• $500.00

Number of Scholarships Available:

• 3

The Latham Fund Grant supports organizations in the Washington, DC area focusing on medical research for disease cures, particularly clinical applications. It also aids financially challenged patients requiring medical, nursing, or hospital care. Established in 1972, the Charles and Mary Latham Fund has positively impacted the community by funding various health-related projects. Grants are not available for research involving animals or individual support, ensuring a focus on collective health advancements.

The NCRG Large Grant, provided by the International Center for Responsible Gaming, supports high-quality research on gambling disorders and responsible gambling. Eligible applicants can request up to $75,000 annually for a maximum of 24 months, totaling $187,500. The grant emphasizes scientific rigor through its advisory board, ensuring only the best proposals receive funding. This initiative aims to advance understanding and treatment of gambling-related issues through peer-reviewed research.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Douglas & Elaine Waring Memorial Scholarship

The Douglas & Elaine Waring Memorial Scholarship Fund honors engineer Doug Waring and his wife of 49 years, Elaine. 

Created in 2002, the Waring scholarship supports the education of any Marion County high school student who scored in the upper 50th percentile of the ACT, SAT, or other national standardized test.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Donald S. & Beulah Mae Williams Scholarship

Created by the late Don Williams in 2016, this scholarship fund initially honored his beloved Beulah Mae, devoted farmer, loving housewife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. It now memorializes this Prospect farming couple.

The Williams Scholarship supports Marion County students who participated in either FFA or 4-H for three or more years.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

David G. Wilhelm Memorial Scholarship

The David G. Wilhelm Memorial Fund was created in honor of its namesake in 2020. It supports college students pursuing careers in mental and behavioral health services.  

Bettye Davis East High School STEM Scholarship Fund

The East High School STEM Scholarship is established to honor Sandra and Kenji Kusano.

The Bettye Davis East High School STEM Scholarship was established to honor Sandra and Kenji Kusano. Like many others, Sandy and Kenji Kusano followed their dreams to Alaska. Sandy's first job at ARCO turned into a 51-year career in the same building. Kenji started a Japanese restaurant, Yamato Ya, which they owned for 26 years. This scholarship honors their inspiring work ethic and dedication to providing opportunities for others.

Bettye Davis East High School STEM Scholarship supports a graduating high school senior from Bettye Davis East Anchorage High School pursuing a bachelor degree in STEM.