Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Nebraska

Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are accepted from mid-November until mid-March. Scholarship award recipients will be announced at the high school awards ceremony.

Adam Liepinis Memorial Scholarship

Established by the family of the late Adam Liepinis to provide tuition assistance to a graduating senior from Susquehanna or Wyoming counties, who will attend a post-secondary degree program with priority given to a student majoring in welding or automotive technology.

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Scholarship Program

The community foundation offers a wide variety of scholarships for students, provided by the generosity of local donors. Whether you are a high school senior, a current college student, or a non-traditional student we work with donors to help you take the next step in your education.

Marcella Dowling Oakes Art Scholarship

For students qualifying for graduation from a high school within the service area of GSCF or its affiliates with an intended major in an art field, including, but not limited to, visual arts, fine arts education, digital/graphic arts, architecture, or design.

 Applicants must submit a personal statement about how they will utilize their drawing skills to accomplish their future career goals.

Renewals

• This award is not renewable.

Through the generosity of fundholders and donors, NCCF has awarded more than half a million dollars in scholarships to assist students in Northwest Connecticut with the cost of higher education.

NCCF awards more than $530,000 in scholarships a year. 

Donald E. Heisinger Scholarship

Academic Focus:

• Accounting, Finance, or Business

Award:

• $750

Established by the Dillon Family, this scholarship is awarded to a student whose primary residence is in Torrington and who pursues, or intends to pursue, a degree in accounting, finance, or business at an accredited university or college. This scholarship is not financially need-based. (No FAFSA required)

The Coors Light Líderes Grant Program honors exceptional Latino leaders across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, awarding five individuals with a $10,000 grant each for their nonprofit organizations. This initiative, active for 17 years, aims to empower emerging leaders who demonstrate significant community impact through innovative programs. Eligible nominees must be between 21-39 years old, associated with a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and committed to fostering positive change in their communities.

UNCF STEM Scholars Program

The UNCF STEM Scholars Program is an initiative designed to identify and provide scholarship and academic support for students who aspire to earn STEM degrees and to pursue careers in STEM fields, awarding 75 scholarships. The program enables highly capable young people to pursue undergraduate STEM majors and prepares them for successful careers in a variety of STEM professions.

Individual Award

• Maximum total up to $25,000, please see Program Benefits below.

About Community Foundation of South Alabama

Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama, improving the lives of many residents in our corner of the world.

We amplify the gifts from generous donors through wise investment, support others in efforts to enhance our community, and lead and collaborate on initiatives which have a broad impact.

Scholarships

The more than 40 scholarship funds at the Foundation were created by generous donors who wanted to help the students in our community achieve a brighter future. We are committed to assisting the most promising students with scholarships for professional certificate programs, two and four-year undergraduate degrees and graduate school. The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, books, and fees.

Partners for Environmental Progress (PEP) Scholarship

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria: be an owner, employee or dependent of an owner or employee of the local branch/site of a company whose membership in PEP is in good standing at the time of the application, selection & awarding of the scholarship to the applicant. Applicants must currently be enrolled at the time of the application as a full or part-time student in a two year or four year accredited technical college, or university for secondary or post-secondary work and have a minimum 3.0 GPA with a declared course of study and major in one of the following: environmental science, environmental planning, environmental engineering, or other related science fields of study, including, but not limited to, all engineering fields, marine science, geoscience, fisheries science, forestry, and estuarine science and management.

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Scholarship Program

The community foundation offers a wide variety of scholarships for students, provided by the generosity of local donors. Whether you are a high school senior, a current college student, or a non-traditional student we work with donors to help you take the next step in your education.

Linda K. Freeland Early Childhood Education Scholarship

For High school senior from Saline County, KS, with an intended major of early childhood education.

Applicant must submit an essay that states why they have chosen to major in early childhood education.

Renewals

• This award is not renewable.

Rare Organic Acidemias Research (ROAR) Consortium Early Career Fellowship

The overall mission of the ROAR career enhancement core is to recruit and retain a cohort of physicians, physician-researchers, and other researchers with clinical research expertise in rare metabolic disorders, specifically organic acidemias.

 Annual funding of $50,000 (total cost, including indirect costs) is available to support a postdoctoral trainee or early career faculty member (within 5 years of residency or fellowship training as of proposed start date of either June 1, 2026 or October 1, 2026) for a one-year period. The ROAR Consortium intends to fund 1-2 awards this cycle with one award starting by June 1, 2026 and another starting by October 1, 2026. 

Trainees are expected to complete the following:

• Design and complete a clinical research project focusing on organic acidemias. This project can leverage existing projects within the ROAR consortium or can be a new project unrelated to existing projects in the consortium. Of note, funds cannot be used to support research projects involving animal models. 
• Meet monthly with their project mentor and periodically with the ROAR Career Enhancement Core leadership to discuss progress.
• Provide a progress report within 30 days of completing the program.
• Attend ROAR consortium activities including the monthly ROAR team calls and annual ROAR consortium in-person meeting.
• Present their project at the annual ROAR consortium in-person meeting or monthly ROAR team call.
• Acknowledge the ROAR consortium support on manuscripts published upon completion of the project.
• Trainees are expected to participate in the RDCRN Rare Disease Research Training Program.
• Trainees are encouraged to budget funds for travel to one conference relevant to the organic acidemia and/or rare disease community to present their work. 

The AASM Foundation Disaster Relief Fund, established in 2005, provides essential financial aid to AASM accredited sleep centers impacted by natural disasters. By supporting these centers, the fund ensures that medical care remains accessible to patients during crises. Past funding has assisted centers after events like Hurricane Katrina and the 2010 Haiti earthquake, helping them recover and restore operations quickly. This initiative highlights the commitment to maintaining patient care in the face of adversity.

Jeff & Marcia Sveen Scholarship

To provide financial support to South Dakota graduates with preference given to Dakota Provisions, LLC personnel in Huron, SD.

The Active Fund Grant, offered by the Kelly Brush Foundation, supports individuals with paralysis from spinal cord injuries in acquiring adaptive sports equipment. This initiative aims to foster active lifestyles and inclusivity through sports. First-time applicants are prioritized for the Fall 2025 cycle, with grants averaging around $3,500, though they can vary. Eligible applicants can receive full or partial awards or a Try-It-First grant to gain experience with the equipment. For guidelines, please refer to the provided FAQs.

The National Cancer Institute's PAIRS program aims to explore innovative cancer therapies by leveraging synthetic vulnerabilities that interact with tumor responses to radiation therapy. This initiative supports the development of targeted drug-radiation combinations, focusing on precision medicine to optimize treatment efficacy while minimizing harm to normal tissues. By consolidating prior funding opportunities, PAIRS encourages research that addresses context-dependent vulnerabilities, enhancing therapeutic strategies and aligning with NIH's scientific goals.

The Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Prize is awarded to early-career scientists in the New York area who are pursuing innovative cancer research. Established by the Pershing Square Foundation in partnership with The Sohn Conference Foundation, the prize offers $250,000 annually for up to three years. With a commitment of over $49 million since 2013, the Alliance aims to accelerate cancer cures by fostering collaborations between academia and industry, providing a unique network and access to vital resources for groundbreaking research.

Bill and Maria Hoekstra Dental Scholarship

Graduating senior, graduating early college student, or current college student who permanently resides and attended high school, including home school, within the Foundation’s greater service area, including Fennville, Hamilton, Hudsonville, Saugatuck, and CTC students from any district.

The Morton B. Duggan, Jr. Memorial Education Recognition Award, provided by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, honors a student enrolled in an accredited respiratory care program. This award, which can reach up to $1,000, includes a certificate of recognition, travel expenses, and registration for AARC Congress. Eligible applicants must verify their enrollment and GPA, and provide letters of recommendation. Preference is given to candidates from Georgia and South Carolina.

About Community Foundation of South Alabama

Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama, improving the lives of many residents in our corner of the world.

We amplify the gifts from generous donors through wise investment, support others in efforts to enhance our community, and lead and collaborate on initiatives which have a broad impact.

Scholarships

The more than 40 scholarship funds at the Foundation were created by generous donors who wanted to help the students in our community achieve a brighter future. We are committed to assisting the most promising students with scholarships for professional certificate programs, two and four-year undergraduate degrees and graduate school. The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, books, and fees.

Steve and Carolyn Perry Scholarship Fund

This scholarship is for an individual pursuing technical training or certification in advanced manufacturing & will support both career training and career advancement training. The applicant must demonstrate that he or she meets the skill requirements of the training or certification program. Financial need is not required but may be taken into consideration. 

The Combined Pilot Research Grants program, supported by the Plastic Surgery Foundation and various surgical organizations, aims to promote innovative research in hand and plastic surgery. With funding of up to $10,000 for one-year pilot projects, this initiative encourages the development of surgeon scientists and seeks to enhance research funding in the field. Eligible applicants must be medical professionals holding relevant positions in U.S. or Canadian institutions.

The Adult Learn-to-Swim Grants, offered by the USA Swimming Foundation in collaboration with U.S. Masters Swimming, aim to enhance swimming safety for adults aged 18 and over. This initiative provides funding to programs that promote swim education, targeting underserved communities. Grants can be used for expenses like pool rentals and scholarships, with a maximum award of $5,000. The goal is to reduce drowning risks and encourage ongoing participation in swimming activities.

The Larson-Veneklasen Outdoor Education Scholarship, established by Ken Larson and Diane Veneklasen, supports Tri-Cities residents pursuing outdoor educational experiences. Inspired by the Outward Bound philosophy, it aims to foster character development and self-discovery through adventure. Applicants can access multiple foundation scholarships with a single application. Required documents include transcripts and any additional materials specified for specific scholarships. Notably, financial need is not a priority, and high school seniors are not restricted from applying.

The Jimmy A. Young Memorial Education Recognition Award, offered by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, honors contributions to respiratory care education. Up to $1,000 is available for students enrolled in accredited respiratory care programs, provided they meet GPA requirements and submit necessary recommendations. This award includes a certificate, airfare, lodging, and registration for the AARC Congress, aiming to support deserving candidates in their educational pursuits.

The Make a SPLASH! Grant Contest invites municipal entities and non-profits in the U.S. to apply for the Inclusive Design Award. This award recognizes splash pads that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility. Winners will receive a customized Life Floor safety surface, valued at $50-65k, promoting community engagement and safety. With two opportunities to win, this initiative aims to enhance splash pad designs, ensuring they cater to all individuals. Join us in making splash pads safer and more accessible for everyone!

The Lucius H. Tarbell and Dorothy J. Tarbell Scholarship Fund, administered by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, provides financial support for students attending Western New England University. Eligible students can receive up to $3,000 in scholarships, which may offset tuition, fees, and other educational costs. The program is open to undergraduate and graduate students from various backgrounds, particularly those from Franklin, Hampshire, Hampden, Berkshire Counties, and Hartford County in Connecticut.

PLTW Launch offers a rolling grant for schools across the U.S. to implement the PLTW Launch program for the upcoming academic year. All schools, especially those serving low-income and minority populations, are encouraged to apply. The grant covers participation and training fees, with requirements to implement multiple PLTW modules over time. This initiative aims to enhance STEM education, ensuring diverse access to innovative learning opportunities.

The US Department of Health & Human Services, through the FDA, is offering a $1.5 million cooperative agreement for a non-profit to establish the Integrated Food Safety System Regulatory and Laboratory Training System National Coordination Center. This center will oversee the training system, enhancing access to high-quality regulatory and laboratory learning resources for both human and animal food safety, thereby leveraging partnerships to improve food safety training nationwide.

Western Michigan University

Mission: We are an access-oriented institution that provides an impactful and inclusive education that integrates discovery and fosters holistic growth and well-being "so that all may learn."

Vision: We empower every person to grow, thrive and belong. We contribute to making the world a better place through creativity, research, innovation and compassion.

CEHD Scholarships

At the College of Education and Human Development, we are dedicated to supporting our students' academic and professional goals. On average, we award close to one million in scholarship dollars annually to help make education more affordable.

Whether you're a prospective student, a current undergraduate, or a graduate student, CEHD scholarships are here to help you succeed.

Scholarship America Essential Visionaries Fund

The Essential Visionaries Scholarship Fund offers renewable scholarships to undergraduate students pursuing degrees or certificates in education, counseling, psychology, or nursing through college or vocational school programs. This program is dedicated to empowering future professionals committed to making a meaningful impact, particularly within K-12 school systems and healthcare fields.

This program is administered by Scholarship America®, the nation’s largest designer and manager of scholarships and other education support programs for corporations, foundations, associations, and individuals.

The USF Community Impact Grant, established by USA Swimming and the USA Swimming Foundation, aims to enhance competitive opportunities in swimming clubs. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for registered USA Swimming clubs committed to fostering community engagement and collaboration. Eligible clubs can renew their grant for up to three years, promoting diverse access to swimming programs. This initiative particularly supports clubs that partner with educational or public entities and those led by women or minorities.

A funding opportunity designed to support food security, refugee services, licensed free healthcare clinics and community development organizations in the United States.

Day of Dignity 2026

Day of Dignity creates an opportunity for caring individuals from diverse communities to provide services to their neighbors in need. The Day of Dignity mission is to promote volunteerism, build relationships, and encourage local organizations to have a transformative impact on their unique community. Bookbags, school kits, jackets, and hygiene kits are some of the in-kind items provided by IRUSA to be distributed during Day of Dignity events. A grant is also given to help support the costs of food, entertainment, venue, etc. Free medical care, screenings, and even barber services can be offered out by the host organization at the event. The host organization is responsible for accommodating their community’s needs and reaching out to different services and vendors. The day is an effort to provide basic living essentials, medical care, and connect those in need to support services available to them in the long term.