Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in New Hampshire

U.S. Writers Aid Initiative

PEN America is an organization of writers and their allies, and that solidarity is never more important than when members of our literary community face crises. PEN America’s U.S. Writers Aid Initiative, part of the PEN America Writers Emergency Fund, offers grants for writers in the United States facing acute financial need following an emergency situation.

The U.S. Writers Aid Initiative is intended to assist fiction and nonfiction authors, poets, playwrights, translators, and journalists in addressing short-term financial emergencies. To be eligible, applicants must be professional writers based in the United States, and be able to demonstrate that this one-time grant will be meaningful in helping address a short-term emergency situation. The fund is limited, and not every application can be supported.

Grant decisions are made on a quarterly basis by a volunteer committee of literary peers in consultation with PEN America staff, using the following guidelines to evaluate professional credentials:

• Publication of one or more books. (Writers who are only self-published or published by a press that charges for publication are not eligible.)
• Multiple essays, short stories, or poems appearing in literary anthologies or literary journals (either online or in print) in the last two years.
• A full-length play, performed in a theater by a professional theater company. Productions in academic settings qualify if the author is not a student at the time of the production.
• Employment as a full-time professional journalist, columnist, or critic, or a record of consistent publication on a freelance basis in a range of outlets during the last two years.
• Contracted forthcoming books, essays, short stories, poems, or articles for which the name of the publisher can be provided.
• Other qualifications that support the applicant’s professional identity as a writer.

The AO North America Long-Term Fellowship Program offers vital support for the education and training of orthopedic trauma surgeons. This initiative connects experienced mentors with trauma fellows, ensuring a high standard of educational content and methods. The program focuses on continuous improvement, networking opportunities, and access to valuable resources such as workshops and grants. Administered by AO North America, it aims to enhance postgraduate education in orthopedic trauma surgery.

The Guy Marshall Scholarship Fund, established in 2008 by the advisors of the Cecil G. Marshall Fund, aims to support students from Hawaii pursuing their undergraduate education in the continental U.S. This scholarship emphasizes financial need and requires a minimum GPA of 3.0. Eligible applicants must be high school seniors or entering freshmen from Hawaii and intend to maintain support throughout their four years of study.

The Hew-Shinn Scholarship Fund honors A.K. Hew's parents and emphasizes education's importance. This scholarship is available to Maui County residents enrolled in accredited vocational programs, with a minimum GPA of 2.0 required. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and submit a letter of recommendation. The application deadline aligns with the pre-proposal deadline, ensuring timely consideration for interested students.

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.

The Carolyn Horton Scholarship, initiated by the Foundation For Advancement In Conservation, supports members of the Book and Paper Group in covering costs for meetings, seminars, workshops, and research projects. Named after conservationist Carolyn Horton, who made significant contributions to the field, this scholarship aims to foster excellence and education in book and paper conservation. Eligible applicants must be current members of AIC and the Book and Paper specialty group, promoting ongoing professional development.

The Kahiau Scholarship Fund, established in 2007, aims to support students in Hawaii by providing scholarships based on financial need and academic performance. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and demonstrate community involvement related to the spirit of kahiau, meaning generous giving without expectation. Preference is given to previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility requirements. This fund fosters educational opportunities and community spirit among Hawaii's youth.

The Trainee Investigator Award, offered by the AASM Foundation, recognizes outstanding research presented by AASM Student/Resident Members at the SLEEP annual meeting. This prestigious award includes a $1,000 prize for the top candidate, along with three honorable mentions each receiving $500. It aims to promote the professional growth of early-career researchers in sleep medicine, encouraging innovative contributions to the field. Nominations require submitting an abstract for the SLEEP 2026 meeting.

The YoungArts National Competition, established in 1981, supports exceptional young artists aged 15-18 in the U.S. through a competitive application process. Winners receive financial awards up to $10,000, mentorship from renowned artists, and lifelong artistic support. This prestigious program allows participants to affirm their identity as artists while gaining access to a robust network of peers and mentors, exclusive opportunities, and national recognition, making it a vital stepping stone in their creative journeys.

The S&G Labs Hawaii Scholarship Fund, established by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation in 2018, aims to support students transitioning from drug treatment into educational training. Applicants must be Hawaii residents with financial need, maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.5, and enrolled full-time in an accredited institution. Average awards are around $6,000, depending on available funds and applicant qualifications. This initiative fosters equity and opportunity for vulnerable communities in Hawaii.

The CSA Scholars’ Roundtable Honor recognizes individuals who exemplify excellence in costume scholarship. Since its establishment in 1997, it fosters dynamic discussions on pertinent costume scholarship issues during the CSA National Symposium. Nominees are evaluated based on their innovative experiences, insights into scholarly topics, and ability to collaborate effectively. This initiative not only celebrates scholarship but also encourages interdisciplinary dialogue and engagement among scholars in the field.

The Shigeo and Winifred Ito Scholarship Fund, established by a former recipient of the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, aims to support students from Hawaii pursuing higher education on the U.S. mainland. With awards averaging around $6,000, the fund prioritizes residents demonstrating financial need and maintaining good academic standing. The scholarship reflects a commitment to fostering educational opportunities and giving back to the community, ensuring that deserving students can achieve their academic goals.

The Philip & Louise Wang Scholarship Fund, established by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation in 2022, aims to support U.S. residents who demonstrate financial need, academic merit, and good character while attending accredited post-high school institutions. Eligible applicants must be Hawaii residents maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0. Preference is given to first-generation college students and previous recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This initiative embodies our vision of a thriving and equitable Hawai‘i.

The Transformational Partnerships Fund offers Seed Grants of up to $10,000 to colleges and universities exploring student-centered partnerships. These grants help defray costs associated with events that build consensus among leadership to pursue transformative collaborations. Prioritization is given to institutions serving diverse student populations and those that can demonstrate the potential for significant impact on student outcomes. This initiative focuses on fostering innovative partnerships that enhance institutional effectiveness and student success.

The OREF New Investigator Grant offers seed funding of up to $50,000 for promising research projects aimed at enhancing the scientific training of orthopaedic surgeons. This grant is specifically for new investigators who have not previously secured substantial research funding. Applicants must be orthopaedic surgeons meeting the NIH definition of a new investigator. The grant period lasts one year and requires periodic progress reports and an annual review.

The Occupational Safety and Health Education and Research Centers (T42) program, funded by the CDC, focuses on enhancing occupational safety through targeted education and training. By fostering interdisciplinary research and collaboration among academic institutions, this initiative aims to equip professionals with the necessary skills to address workplace health challenges. The program seeks to diversify the workforce and improve worker safety and well-being through outreach and continued education efforts.

The Rotary Club of Portsmouth's Basic Needs Grant Fund provides essential support for food, shelter, healthcare, and clothing to families in the Portsmouth community. Funded through local fundraising events, this grant aims to address basic needs, particularly for children. With no fixed grant amounts, typical awards are around $2,500, and applicants can reapply annually, ensuring ongoing assistance for those in need in the greater Portsmouth area.

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.

St. John Lutheran Church (Windfall) Scholarship

This scholarship fund was created in 2024 by the members of St. John Lutheran (Windfall) Church to support Marion and Morrow County students active with a Christian church. The fund, formerly known as the Horst Scholarship, migrated from the church to the stewardship of Marion Community Foundation.

The scholarship is open to seniors and graduates of high schools located in Marion and Morrow counties (must be a resident of one those counties at the time of application). Applicants must demonstrate that they are affiliated with a Christian church, located in Marion or Morrow County, that adheres to the Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds.

First consideration is given to seniors and candidates for graduation from high school; then, to graduates enrolled as a sophomore, junior, or senior in an undergraduate collegiate program.

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.

Robert M. & Dorothy C. Wopat Scholarship

The largest scholarship fund at Marion Community Foundation, the Wopat Scholarship awards $100,000+ annually in support of local students.

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.

Norman Withrow Golf Scholarship

The Norman Withrow Golf Scholarship Fund supports students from any Marion County high school who participate in varsity golf to attend the college or university of their choice.

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.

Nancy O. Whitaker Memorial Scholarship

The Nancy O. Whitaker Memorial Scholarship is available to students pursing an education in the field of speech and hearing, including research, treatment, education, and cures for people who suffer from speech and hearing impairments and diseases.

The Whitaker Scholarship is open to high school seniors who have lived in Marion for at least the last two 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.

Mary Ellen Withrow Scholarship

Marion’s “favorite daughter,” Mary Ellen Withrow, the 40th Treasurer of the United States, created a scholarship fund in 2016 for female students from any Marion County high school, with special consideration for those pursuing the fields of finance or political science. 

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.

Marion Women’s Business Council Scholarship

The Marion Women’s Business Council created this scholarship fund in 2017 from member contributions to support future women in business. 

The Women’s Business Council Scholarship Fund annually awards a scholarship to a female student from a Marion County high school pursuing studies in business, finance, economics, marketing, management, advertising, accounting, human resources, or entrepreneurship.

The Dr. Hans and Clara Zimmerman Foundation Health Scholarships offer financial assistance to Hawaii residents pursuing education in health-related fields. Established by Dr. Zimmerman, the foundation supports college seniors and graduate students demonstrating financial need and maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to past recipients who continue to meet eligibility criteria. This scholarship is part of one of Hawaii's largest scholarship funds, promoting careers in healthcare.

The ASHP Foundation offers Professional Advancement Scholarships for pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and graduating pharmacy students, enabling them to attend national meetings for networking and professional growth. For the 2025 ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting, scholarships include full registration and $1,000 for travel support. This initiative aims to enhance professional development opportunities within the pharmacy community, fostering connections and knowledge sharing among healthcare professionals.

Stars, Stripes & Skilled Trades

General Motors invites eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations to submit proposals for Stars, Stripes & Skilled Trades, a workforce development initiative designed to support veterans, transitioning service members, and military-connected family members—including spouses—in building lasting careers in manufacturing, automotive, and skilled trades. GM is seeking scalable, results-driven programs that create clear pathways to quality careers while recognizing the experience and leadership that veterans and military families bring to American industry. 

We're looking for existing initiatives that:

• Serve career-transitioning service members, veterans, and military-connected family members
• Provide industry-recognized training, certifications, or credentials
• Connect participants to mentorships, quality jobs, and long-term career pathways in manufacturing, automotive technician roles, or skilled trades.

Grant Range

• $100,000 | $250,000 | $500,000

The Murray Watson, Jr. Scholarship offers a $5,000 award each month to Texas students. Funded by Brazos Higher Education, this scholarship aims to support students in achieving their college dreams, whether they are high school seniors or current college attendees. Eligibility includes being a Texas resident with a minimum GPA of 3.3. This initiative is part of Brazos' commitment to making education more accessible and affordable for Texas families.