Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Pennsylvania

The PA Fair Fund - County FFA Funds Reimbursement Program supports Pennsylvania's county FFA organizations by reimbursing a portion of their annual expenses for leadership development activities. Eligible costs include public speaking, judging contests, and scholarships, while entertainment and clothing costs are ineligible. This program enhances local economies by creating jobs and promoting agricultural products, making it essential for community development and engagement.

The PA Fair Fund - State Agricultural Organization Funds Reimbursement Program supports Pennsylvania's Statewide Agricultural Organizations by reimbursing eligible expenses for agricultural events. Organizations can receive up to $2,000 in base funding and 50% reimbursement on premium costs, not exceeding $10,000. This funding enhances local economies by creating jobs, boosting tourism, and enabling farmers to directly market their products. Organizations must cover costs upfront, with grants awarded based on available funds.

The PA Fair Fund - County 4-H Funds Reimbursement Program supports county 4-H organizations in Pennsylvania by reimbursing a portion of their annual expenses for activities that foster leadership development. This includes costs for public speaking, judging contests, scholarships, and administration. By attracting visitors and boosting local economies, fairs serve as vital community hubs. This grant promotes youth engagement and agricultural education while ensuring that upfront costs are covered by the organizations.

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Jeffrey M. Gillen Police Academy Scholarship

The Jeffrey M. Gillen Police Academy Scholarship was created at The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County in recognition of the service and commitment of Officer Jeffrey M. Gillen. 

This scholarship provides financial assistance to students attending Westmoreland Community College and the police academy, supporting those who aspire to protect and serve their community.

Award Type: Single-Year Award

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Jean A. Walsh Scholarship Fund

The Jean A. Walsh Scholarship Fund of The Pittsburgh Foundation was created to provide scholarships for students, with a prefernce for those residing in Allegheny, Washington or Westmoreland counties, who will attend Duquesne University's School of Music as an undergraduate student enrolled in the Music Therapy degree.

Award Type: Multi-Year (up to 4 years). Recipients must maintain enrollment and major requirements.

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

James A. and Rita B. Pellow Memorial Fund

The James A. and Rita B. Pellow Memorial Fund was was established to provide scholarship funds for a graduate student of Duquesne University School of Music with a preference for students in the Jazz Department who play saxophone.

Award Type: Single-Year Award

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Herbert A. and Charles E. Kester Scholarship Fund

The Herbert A & Charles E Kester Scholarship Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation by Kevin & Tracy Walsh to honor the memory of their dear friend Charles Kester & his father Herbert by providing funds for students who will be attending The University of Pittsburgh & will be pursing a degree or studies in Education. Both Herbert & Charles strongly believed in giving back & helping others when they could, this scholarship continues their legacy.

Award Type: Multi-Year (up to 4 years). Recipients must maintain enrollment and major requirements.

The Cycling Activation in PA Mini Grants program, administered by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, offers funding ranging from $1,000 to $15,000 for projects that enhance cycling opportunities across the state. It aims to activate existing cycling assets like gravel roads and multi-use paths by fostering community engagement, promoting stewardship, and supporting the outdoor recreation economy. Eligible applicants include non-profits, municipalities, and educational institutions, with a required 1:1 match for funding.

The Strategic Alliance Matching Grant by the NCAA Division III aims to bolster ethnic minority and gender representation in senior athletics administration roles. With an annual budget of $1.6 million, it supports up to 46 schools and conferences over five years. Eligible institutions must be active NCAA Division III members and meet various requirements. This grant encourages diversity in leadership, fostering an inclusive environment for student-athletes.

Community Planning Technical Assistance Program (C-TAP)

Overview The Community Planning Technical Assistance Program (C-TAP) helps local and county governments, along with municipal partner organizations, plan, prepare, and implement strategies that support long-term growth and development. 

The Community Planning Technical Assistance Program (C-TAP) helps local and county governments, along with municipal partner organizations, plan, prepare, and implement strategies that support long-term growth and development. Whether updating ordinances, scoping a larger study, or moving a completed plan into action, eligible applicants receive hands-on, tailored support from experienced planners. C-TAP helps communities move confidently from idea to implementation, with up to 400 hours of technical assistance available per project.

Funding

This program does not provide funding. C-TAP helps communities move confidently from idea to implementation, with up to 400 hours of technical assistance available per project.

The Coaching Enhancement Grant by the NCAA Division III aims to increase diversity in assistant coaching roles by providing financial support to member institutions. Over two years, selected schools receive $15,000 to cover salaries, requiring a matching contribution. This initiative encourages ethnic minority and gender representation, allowing up to 11 institutions to benefit annually, thus enhancing inclusivity in collegiate sports.

The Ethnic Minorities and Women’s Internship Grant supports entry-level athletics administrative positions for one academic year, promoting diversity in NCAA Division II. It provides $30,000 for intern salaries and $3,000 for professional development, benefiting six schools annually from a total budget of $180,000. Eligible applicants must be active NCAA members, with a focus on enhancing ethnic minority and gender representation in athletics administration. This initiative encourages professional growth and compliance in diverse environments.

The Pittsburgh Women in Communications Scholarship Fund, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation, supports local students pursuing studies in various communications fields. Eligible candidates include juniors, seniors, and graduate students attending Pennsylvania colleges or universities, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This fund aims to empower aspiring communicators from several counties, enhancing their educational opportunities and fostering a diverse future in communications.

Scranton Area Community Foundation

For over 70 years, the Scranton Area Community Foundation has served Northeastern Pennsylvania as a steward of charitable resources, a grantmaker, and a catalyst for positive change. Guided by our core values of collaboration, trust, integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, we work to ensure that our communities thrive with opportunities for all.

Scholarships

We are honored to be the stewards of over 90 scholarship funds established by philanthropically-minded individuals in our community. Generous donors entrust us to connect them to dynamic students to provide financial resources for their education through scholarships. Our donors establish scholarship funds with criteria they wish to be met by applicants. Our scholarship committee considers the criteria, evaluates the submitted applications, and chooses the best candidates for each scholarship.

Martin and Anna Orlando Kopa Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior from a high school in Lackawanna county who is matriculating to either Penn State University or Johnson College in Scranton, PA.

The ALDI Community Gift Card Program provides financial support ranging from $100 to $1,000 to eligible nonprofits and schools that focus on after-school and out-of-school youth programs, as well as food banks. This initiative aims to empower organizations dedicated to child development and combating food insecurity. By applying, you can gain access to essential resources to further your mission and make a positive impact in your community.

Scranton Area Community Foundation

For over 70 years, the Scranton Area Community Foundation has served Northeastern Pennsylvania as a steward of charitable resources, a grantmaker, and a catalyst for positive change. Guided by our core values of collaboration, trust, integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, we work to ensure that our communities thrive with opportunities for all.

Scholarships

We are honored to be the stewards of over 90 scholarship funds established by philanthropically-minded individuals in our community. Generous donors entrust us to connect them to dynamic students to provide financial resources for their education through scholarships. Our donors establish scholarship funds with criteria they wish to be met by applicants. Our scholarship committee considers the criteria, evaluates the submitted applications, and chooses the best candidates for each scholarship.

Melvin-Deininger Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a graduate of a Lackawanna county high school who maintains a B average or higher and who plans to attend a college, university, or technical school located in Pennsylvania.

The Citizens Charitable Foundation offers grants focused on Workforce Development and Financial Empowerment. Organizations applying must be IRS-qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in specific states. The foundation seeks to partner with high-impact nonprofits to create measurable community impact through innovative programs. Funding is directed towards job training, career education, and coaching initiatives, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and volunteerism.

The DCNR Land Acquisition and Conservation Grants support projects aimed at purchasing or donating land for parks, recreation areas, greenways, and critical habitats. Eligible applicants include county and municipal governments, educational institutions, and prequalified land trusts. The grants promote public access to community spaces and protect essential ecosystems, ensuring sustainable land use for future generations. For more details, applicants should refer to the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund Act guidelines.

The DCNR Non-Motorized Trails Grants support the development, rehabilitation, and maintenance of trails for non-motorized recreation. Eligible projects include trail acquisition, planning, and educational programs that promote safety and environmental protection. This funding is essential for enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities and ensuring sustainable trail use throughout Pennsylvania. The grants encourage communities to engage in creating safe and enjoyable spaces for activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

The DCNR Motorized Trails Grants program supports the development and maintenance of motorized recreational trails in Pennsylvania. Funded by the Federal Highway Administration, the program aims to enhance trail facilities for snowmobiling, ATV riding, and off-highway motorcycle riding. Eligible applicants include government agencies, educational institutions, and non-profits. Grant funding can cover up to 80% of eligible project costs, ensuring safer and more accessible trails for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Wild Resource Conservation Grant Program (WRCP) was established in 1982 to support the conservation of non-game wildlife and native plants in Pennsylvania. It facilitates funding for research, management, and conservation efforts focused on threatened species and their habitats. Administered by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the program plays a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and promoting environmental stewardship through targeted grants.

Key Bank Philanthropic Support - Community Sponsorships aims to enhance community welfare by providing financial backing to nonprofit organizations. With grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, these sponsorships focus on fundraising events and operational support for initiatives that foster economic inclusion and community growth. Applications are accepted from January to October, with decisions typically made within 90 days, ensuring timely support for impactful local projects.

Quest for the Best® is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Pennsylvania by providing project-based grants to 501(c)(3) organizations. The grant aims to support initiatives that focus on long-term sustainability, secured co-funding, and specific programs. Priorities include police and nurse training, education for underserved communities, and humanitarian efforts such as clean water access. The funder emphasizes local impact and requires matching contributions for grant requests.

The Cigna Group Foundation is launching the Improving Youth Mental Health Grant, committing $9 million over three years to enhance mental health support for youth aged five to 18. This initiative targets post-pandemic challenges, offering resources to parents, caregivers, and youth service professionals. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply for funding between $100,000 and $150,000 to develop programs that promote social-emotional skills, enhance caregiver support, and improve access to mental health interventions in underserved communities.

Quest for the Best® offers legal services grants to Pennsylvania-based 501(c)(3) organizations, focusing on those in Southeastern Pennsylvania. With a commitment to strengthening the common good, they provide assistance in incorporation, tax exemption applications, and general legal consultation. The funder prioritizes organizations that demonstrate sustainability and have qualified staff. Note that their services are not available for for-profit entities or litigation matters. This initiative aims to support nonprofits in achieving their legal and operational goals.

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Preckel-McAuley Scholarship Fund

The Preckel-McAuley Scholarship Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships to students pursuing a master's degree in Archives and Information Science at the University of Pittsburgh's School of Computing and Information.

Award Type: Single Year. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply in consecutive years.

KeyBank's Community Grants support tax-exempt organizations that align with the Foundation's funding priorities, focusing on improving community well-being. With grants ranging from $10,000 to $25,000, eligible organizations must have an operating budget of at least $100,000 and a minimum of three years in operation. The application process is invitation-only, requiring interested organizations to submit an Expression of Interest for review, typically receiving feedback within 90 days.