Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Pennsylvania

The Bayard Long Award supports students researching plant species in the Philadelphia area and surrounding regions. With a typical funding of $2000, it encourages studies that enhance understanding of local flora, including field and herbarium work. Eligible projects must include at least one native plant species, promoting both academic and practical botanical endeavors. This opportunity is available to all students enrolled in degree programs at any post-secondary institution, furthering educational and scientific exploration in botany.

The Samuel L. Abrams Foundation, established in 1966, supports deserving graduates and faculty of the Harrisburg School District in their pursuit of higher education. With over $1.7 million awarded in scholarships, it stands as the largest scholarship provider in South Central Pennsylvania. Eligible applicants include graduates from various local high schools with plans for post-secondary education and demonstrable financial need. Renewability is permitted, encouraging ongoing educational growth among recipients.

The Highlands Conservation Act Program, administered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, supports land conservation projects in Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Grants cover up to 50% of project costs for acquisitions from willing sellers. The program typically allocates funds in two categories: Base and Competitive. Eligible applicants can apply for Base Funding through this Notice of Funding Opportunity, while a separate notice will address Competitive Funds.

The Multimodal Transportation Fund Grant, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, aims to enhance economic development through improved transportation systems. This grant supports municipalities, businesses, and public agencies in rehabilitating and developing transportation assets to ensure safe and reliable transit. With a focus on pedestrian safety and community connectivity, the program encourages innovative solutions that foster a stronger, more resilient Pennsylvania.

The F25AS00332 Highlands Conservation Act provides competitive funding for land conservation projects in the Highlands Region, which includes Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Administered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, this program allows eligible state, county, or municipal entities to request grants covering up to 50% of project costs. The program aims to protect vital natural resources and is divided into Base and Competitive funding categories, with specific proposals invited for the Competitive Funding Round.

The Scherman Foundation's Democracy Program champions the empowerment of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities. It focuses on enhancing civic engagement, safeguarding voting rights, and reforming democratic processes to ensure inclusivity and accountability. By supporting locally-rooted organizations in key states, the foundation aims to build a more equitable democracy where diverse voices are heard and political power is reclaimed by those historically marginalized. This program is pivotal for advancing racial justice and fostering systemic change.

About Northeast SARE

The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program offers grants and education to farmers, educators, service providers, researchers and others to address key issues affecting the sustainability of agriculture throughout our region.

The program serves Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The program is administered by Northeast SARE's host institution, the University of Vermont.

Farming Community Grant Program

The Northeast SARE Farming Community Grant applies social science research and education projects that strengthen farming and food systems at the community level.

These projects explore innovative approaches to improving the health and sustainability of agricultural communities in the Northeast. This program supports projects that are grounded in community partnerships and informed by the lived experiences of farmers. It encourages collaboration among farmers, service providers, researchers, and nonprofit organizations to co-create solutions that are responsive to local needs and scalable across the region.

This program encourages innovative solutions to challenges in farming and food systems in the Northeast USA, including but not limited to the areas of: Marketing and business; Crop production; Raising livestock; Aquaculture; Economic and social sustainability; Ecological knowledge; Projects related to climate and/or bioenergy work that provide direct or indirect benefits to farmers,ranchers, and private foresters; and more.

Technical Assistance Program

Applicants and grantees of the Farming Community Grant Program are eligible for Technical Assistance (TA) provided by Northeast SARE’s Technical Assistance Providers.

Funding: This grant is reimbursement based; you must spend money to receive the grant funds.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, led by the Arbor Day Foundation, aims to enhance college campuses through tree planting and care. By fostering green spaces, the program improves the college experience, promotes sustainability, and provides mental health benefits. Schools can achieve recognition by meeting five key standards, encouraging student involvement in environmental stewardship. This initiative not only beautifies campuses but also contributes to tackling climate change and creating a healthier environment for all.

The CNX Foundation Grant aims to enhance the Appalachian region through strategic investments totaling $30 million. With a focus on sustainability and community development, the grant addresses pressing socio-economic challenges such as food insecurity, health and wellness for children, and technological access. By fostering local initiatives, CNX Foundation aspires to create measurable impacts that uplift communities and promote long-term growth, embodying their commitment to environmental, social, and governance principles.

The Mary Sachs Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, supports female graduating high school seniors from Cumberland, Dauphin, Perry, or Lancaster County. Eligible candidates must pursue studies in fashion, fashion design, or business while demonstrating community involvement. This scholarship honors Mary Sachs, a pioneering entrepreneur and philanthropist, whose legacy continues to inspire young women to achieve their educational and career aspirations.

The Oliver Rosenberg Educational Trust, established by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, offers scholarships to graduating seniors from various Harrisburg High School campuses, Steelton High-Spire, and Dauphin County Technical School. This fund assists students pursuing business, technical, or trade school education, emphasizing financial need and extracurricular involvement. By continuing Ollie Rosenberg's legacy of supporting education, the trust aims to empower students to achieve their academic and professional aspirations in Pennsylvania.

The Scherman Foundation's Environmental & Climate Justice Program focuses on empowering Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities through grassroots organizing to address climate change and promote racial justice. With a regional emphasis on New York City and State, the program funds multi-issue, community-based organizations that advocate for equitable climate solutions. This initiative aims to dismantle systemic inequalities and foster a Just Transition towards sustainable, democratically controlled systems, ensuring that frontline communities lead the way in climate transformation.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

The F26AS00085 Aquatic Invasive Species Interjurisdictional Grants, funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support interjurisdictional projects addressing aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes. Eligible applicants include Great Lakes states and tribes, focusing on action-oriented projects that enhance regional priorities. The initiative will fund both sustaining projects, which build on previous efforts, and new projects that present innovative solutions for effective management and prevention of aquatic invasive species.

The LMC Legacy Foundation Grants aim to promote hope and healing through innovative behavioral healthcare resources. Focused on supporting 501(c)(3) organizations in Southeast PA, these grants are designed to improve mental health, resilience, and community well-being. By funding initiatives that foster measurable and sustainable outcomes, the foundation seeks to inspire change for individuals and families facing mental health challenges. For further details, please refer to the FAQs on their website.

The Grove Family Fund #1, managed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, is dedicated to supporting local high school students from specific schools in Central Dauphin County. This fund enables juniors and seniors to take college-level courses at HACC while still in high school, enhancing their educational opportunities. With a strong emphasis on community development and education, the fund aims to empower students and promote academic success for future generations.

The William and Helen Thomas Charitable Trust provides funding to nonprofit organizations focused on education, environmental protection, medical research, and support for the underprivileged. This trust, based in Florida, primarily serves communities in Palm Beach, Martin, and St. Lucie Counties, along with select areas in Appalachia. It seeks to assist public charities classified under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, ensuring support for impactful charitable initiatives.

The George M. and Mary Jane Leader Scholarship, established by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, aims to support high school students from Harrisburg to pursue higher education at Harrisburg Area Community College. This scholarship focuses on juniors and seniors from local schools, encouraging them to take college-level courses while maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.5. It reflects a commitment to educational access and community development in South Central Pennsylvania.

The EITC Opportunity Scholarship, offered by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, provides funding for students in the lowest 15% achieving schools in Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lebanon, and Perry counties. This initiative aims to support students in attending out-of-district or private schools, enhancing educational opportunities for those from low-income households. The scholarship prioritizes students with disabilities and those who received funding previously, ensuring equitable access to quality education and fostering community development.

The Roberta L. Houpt Scholarship, established by Lyndell S. Houpt in 1998, honors her daughter, a Vietnam War nurse and Pennsylvania's first Nurse Practitioner. This scholarship aids students from Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry counties pursuing nursing degrees at their chosen institutions. TFEC, a leading scholarship provider in South Central Pennsylvania, supports local students through over 190 scholarship opportunities, demonstrating a commitment to community enhancement and educational advancement.

The Washington Biologists' Field Club (WBFC) Research Awards Competition offers grants to support field research focused on the Mid-Atlantic Region's natural history. This includes studies on biodiversity, ecology, and conservation, with a particular emphasis on organisms from Plummers Island and the Potomac River. The WBFC encourages proposals that enhance understanding of lesser-known taxa and has funded diverse research topics, such as fish behavior and conservation genetics.

The Ray S. Shoemaker Scholarship, established by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, honors the legacy of Ray S. Shoemaker. It provides financial assistance to undergraduate students attending Harrisburg City public schools and surrounding districts, prioritizing those with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrating financial need. With a mission to support local students, the scholarship fosters educational opportunities and community growth, reflecting over a century of commitment to philanthropy in South Central Pennsylvania.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers the DGLF Summer Reading Grants, which support the development and expansion of summer reading programs aimed at Pre-K to 12th grade students, particularly new and below-grade-level readers, including those with learning disabilities. Eligible organizations, such as nonprofits, schools, and libraries within 15 miles of a Dollar General store, can apply for grants up to $3,000 to foster literacy and education initiatives.

The Pauline M. Whitekettle Scholarship Fund, established by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, honors a dedicated educator and community member. This scholarship is available to residents of the Newport area, particularly members of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, who demonstrate academic proficiency and community involvement. Recipients can renew the scholarship for up to three years with a minimum GPA of 2.5, reflecting Ms. Whitekettle's legacy of supporting local students in their educational pursuits.

The Nick Pantalone Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, honors the life of Nicholas “Nick” Pantalone, who bravely fought a rare cancer. This one-time scholarship supports high school seniors from select counties in Pennsylvania who maintain a 3.0 GPA, demonstrate financial need, and are involved in Mini-Thon or have personal cancer experiences. With over a century of philanthropic excellence, TFEC continues to empower local students through generous scholarship opportunities.

The Garden Club of America Award in Coastal Wetlands Studies supports graduate students engaged in coastal wetlands research. Established through the Rockefeller Environmental Education Fund, this scholarship promotes conservation by funding field work in tidal and nontidal wetlands across coastal states, including the Great Lakes. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. graduate program and can propose their own wetlands study. The award aims to foster environmental education and scientific inquiry in this vital ecosystem.

The Mary Grace Shearer MSW Scholarship for the Advancement of Social Work Fund, established by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, supports students entering their junior or senior year in accredited social work programs in select Pennsylvania counties. With a minimum GPA of 3.0 and financial need, this scholarship aims to foster professional social work standards by enhancing students' knowledge and skills. Recipients may reapply for one additional year to continue their educational journey.