Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Oklahoma

The NINDS Faculty Development Award aims to enhance diversity in neuroscience research by supporting junior faculty from underrepresented backgrounds. This award provides essential research cost support, protected research time, and mentorship for individuals holding doctoral degrees within their first three years on a faculty tenure track. It specifically encourages research proposals that do not involve independent clinical trials, while allowing participation in trials led by mentors. Key application deadlines span from October 2024 to June 2027.

The INCLUDE Project aims to enhance the health and quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome by generating comprehensive genomic and multi-omics data. This initiative encourages applicants to submit samples to NIH-supported resources, facilitating the exploration of molecular mechanisms related to health conditions associated with Down syndrome. The data will be shared via the INCLUDE Data Hub, promoting collaboration within the research community, though no direct funding is available to applicants.

The National Network of STI Clinical Prevention Training Centers (NNPTC) aims to enhance the education and training of clinicians and disease intervention professionals in STI patient care. This initiative focuses on improving the ability of healthcare providers and systems to effectively diagnose, manage, and counsel individuals at risk for STIs, ultimately reducing morbidity and enhancing public health outcomes on both local and national levels.

The K–12 Educators Grants in American Music, offered by the American Musicological Society, provides $500 awards to K-12 educators with an interest in American music to attend the Teaching Music History Conference. This grant supports educators in engaging with historical pedagogy through workshops and networking opportunities. Participants will explore American music's significance while developing actionable lesson plans, fostering connections among educators and researchers committed to enhancing music education.

The Affiliate Grants - Chapter Activities Fund, offered by the American Musicological Society, provides financial support for chapter activities and programs. Each chapter can request up to $500, covering no more than 50% of total costs. Applications are accepted semi-annually, with deadlines of August 1 for summer and January 15 for winter. Notably, chapters can only receive funding once per twelve-month period, ensuring fair distribution of resources.

The Manny Heaton Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Manny Heaton, a vibrant individual whose life was tragically cut short in April 2023. Established by his father, Tom Heaton, this annual scholarship supports the children of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana (TMMI) employees. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors with a minimum GPA of 2.0, planning to attend college or technical school, reflecting Manny's dedication and resilience.

The American Musicological Society offers Affiliate Grants to support study group activities with up to $500 in funding, covering no more than 50% of total costs. Applications are accepted twice a year, with deadlines on August 1 and January 15. Only elected representatives of AMS study groups can apply, and groups may receive funding only once in a twelve-month period. Funds must be utilized within a year of the award date.

The AMS Explore Travel Grant supports current or recent undergraduate students to present 10-minute papers at the 2025 AMS-SMT Joint Annual Meeting in Minneapolis. Participants will engage in cohort activities, receive constructive feedback, and enjoy a supportive conference environment. Accepted applicants will benefit from complimentary registration, a $350 travel grant, and shared lodging in the conference hotel, enhancing their academic experience and involvement in the AMS community.

The Alvin H. Johnson AMS 50 Fellowship supports PhD candidates in music scholarship during their final dissertation year. Awarded based on academic merit, it offers a $25,000 stipend for full-time study, with no tuition coverage. Applicants must be registered doctoral students in good standing at North American universities, having completed all requirements except the dissertation. The fellowship emphasizes timely completion, discouraging extensive employment during the term, and is non-renewable.

The Suzanne G. Cusick Professional Development Fund, offered by the American Musicological Society, provides $500 grants to support low-income scholars in music and sound studies. These grants aim to enhance professional development for independent scholars and contingent faculty who lack access to such opportunities. The fund emphasizes equitable participation, particularly for historically under-represented groups, ensuring a diverse range of recipients can benefit from this vital support.

The William F. Holmes / Frank D’Accone Dissertation Fellowship in Opera Studies, awarded by the American Musicological Society, supports dissertation research in opera studies for graduate students. Offering a stipend of $25,000, this fellowship is based on academic merit and aims to facilitate full-time study. Recipients may opt for a non-stipendiary award to allow more funding for others. Selection occurs in spring, with announcements made in summer.

The David Perlman Award for Excellence in Science Journalism recognizes outstanding work in science news reporting. Established in 2000, this annual award honors journalists who make Earth and space science accessible to the public. Recipients receive a $5,000 prize, an engraved award, and recognition at AGU's annual meeting. Eligible nominees include journalists from any medium, excluding books, who have not won the award in the past two years. The award encourages diverse representation in science journalism.

The Path to a Cure — Collaborative Research Grant, offered by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, aims to support research in developing new therapies for cystic fibrosis, particularly focusing on CFTR gene repair and replacement strategies. This program prioritizes collaborations that integrate new investigators and innovative technologies into CF research. Applicants can request up to $1,000,000 annually for three years, with proposals requiring preliminary data to demonstrate feasibility and potential impact.

"Slipperman” Music Scholarship in Memory of Timothy J. Gilles

The “Slipperman” Music Scholarship in Memory of Timothy J. Gilles recognizes the hard-working graduates of Herkimer and Oneida counties pursuing their secondary education in a music-related field.

Candidates are identified by Utica Dollars for Scholars.

The Statewide Perinatal Quality Collaboratives initiative aims to enhance the health of pregnant and postpartum women and their newborns through quality improvement strategies. Funded by the CDC, the program encompasses two components: state-based Perinatal Quality Collaboratives and a National Network coordinating center. Key strategies include strengthening data systems and fostering partnerships to improve healthcare services and outcomes. Ultimately, this initiative seeks to implement successful quality improvement initiatives that ensure better coordination and health outcomes for mothers and newborns across the United States.

The Sherry Wagner-Henry Board Fellowship, initiated by the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT), offers a unique opportunity for emerging leaders in the theatre and entertainment industry. This 12-18 month program connects Fellows with experienced board members to enhance their professional skills. Participants gain access to board resources, attend meetings, and receive support for conferences, all valued at approximately $3,000 to $3,500. Ideal for individuals with 2-5 years of experience, this Fellowship fosters growth and leadership in nonprofit governance.

The Autism Care Today SOS Program is dedicated to providing immediate assistance to families affected by autism across the United States. Established in 2005, this program addresses urgent needs for effective treatments and services for autism spectrum disorders. Unlike typical grant cycles that may take up to 12 weeks, the SOS Program prioritizes those in critical situations, ensuring timely support based on available funding. Eligibility includes a family income below $45,000 and a demonstrated immediate need for treatment.

The 2026 Innovation Grant by Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation aims to foster groundbreaking research in pediatric oncology. This grant provides crucial seed funding of up to $250,000 over two years to established researchers proposing innovative ideas that have the potential to significantly impact childhood cancer treatment. The program emphasizes clinical translation and encourages novel approaches that diverge from previous research directions, ensuring a focus on impactful solutions for children battling cancer.

The Medical Student Mentored Summer Research Program offers medical students in the U.S. and Canada a unique opportunity to engage in a 10-week research experience under expert mentorship in pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, or nutrition. With a stipend of $4000 paid in installments, this program is designed for students who have completed at least their first year of medical training. Preference is given to those seeking research experience between their first and second years.

The Jim and Fran Foss Scholarship, administered by the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Sioux Falls public high schools. This scholarship encourages students who plan to attend accredited four-year colleges or universities, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and demonstrate financial need. With over 70 scholarships awarded annually, it aims to empower local students to achieve their educational aspirations and contribute positively to the community.

Rapid Response Grants 

Emergency funding after mass tragedies.

In the wake of tragic mass events, such as shooting, speed matters. Our Rapid Response Grants provide expedited funding to victims and their families when time is of the essence. These grants ensure that families aren’t left waiting for critical support when they need it most.

• Awarded swiftly after mass casualty events
• Designed to provide urgent, compassionate support in crisis situations

The Jay Frank Memorial Musical Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, supports students passionate about music and the music industry. With over 30 years of commitment to community enhancement, CFMT aims to foster a thriving and inclusive environment for future generations. This scholarship empowers aspiring musicians to explore their interests and develop their skills, ensuring that the rich cultural landscape of Nashville continues to thrive.

The Autism Care Today Grant provides vital funding assistance to families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders across the United States. Since its inception in 2005, it has supported over 1,562 families with more than $1.85 million in grants. The program focuses on enhancing the quality of life for children with autism through various initiatives, including safety measures, assistive technologies, and behavioral therapy funding, while also addressing the unique challenges faced by military families.

The NASPGHAN Foundation/APGNN Susan Moyer Research Grant supports impactful research and quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing nursing care for children with gastrointestinal and nutritional disorders. Grants ranging from $500 to $5000 are available for eligible Registered Nurses who are APGNN members. Awardees must present their findings at the NASPGHAN Annual Meeting and adhere to specific funding guidelines, including IRB approval and acknowledgment of support in publications.

The E. C. Lloyd & J.C.U. Johnson Scholarship Fund, established by Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Johnson, supports full-time students pursuing associate or bachelor’s degrees at accredited institutions in the U.S. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years for both undergraduate and graduate studies, contingent on maintaining eligibility standards. It can cover tuition, housing, supplies, books, and fees. However, awards depend on available assets, and future funding is not guaranteed.

Retina Research Foundation

Across the nation, there were only a handful of voluntary groups with the will and the means to tackle retinal disdorders. Retina Research Foundation, established in 1969, was one of those organizations. By the 1980s, RRF had become a voice for retina research in an effort to reduce the incidence of retinal disease, which was fast becoming the leading cause of blindness in developing countries.

Undaunted, the Foundation steadily raised funds each year for vision scientists who were nationally recognized for their work in retina research. Government funding for eye research increased dramatically, and the field of retina research matured. As this body of knowledge grew, RRF programs were expanded to include major awards that recognize established retina scientists and contribute to their ongoing research. The Foundation also developed scientific exchange programs to disseminate knowledge of the dramatic advances that were being made in the laboratory.

RRF Pilot Study Grants

The mission of the Retina Research Foundation is to reduce retinal blindness worldwide by funding programs in research and education. As a public charity, RRF raises funds from the private sector and the investment of its endowment funds.

RRF is currently welcoming pilot study grant applications for the 2027 grant period. Each grant application must be signed by the principal investigator and either their Department Chair or Dean of Research.