Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Pennsylvania

The Carolyn Gallmeyer Scholarship, provided by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports students from Kent County pursuing college or career training. This scholarship aims to remove barriers to education, empowering students to achieve their aspirations. With awards typically ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, it directly contributes to tuition and essential costs. The foundation emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to thrive in their academic journeys.

Who We Are

Buiding a stronger, More Vibrant Community

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.

Established in January 2026, the Irene Zurine Memorial Scholarship Fund awards scholarships each year to support girls and women, traditional or nontraditional students, who are furthering their education.

About

Our Story: Women Deserve More

At Women Founders Grant we are catalyzing a no BS movement for women to truly attain Financial Agency.

Women Founders Grant

If you have a dream, we want to support it. We are here to level the playing field and give you the guidance you need to turn that dream into a reality.

Our Grants

• $5,000 Grants on a rolling basis.
• No strings attached.
• This is our biggest differentiator. We know first hand how the folks who have the funds make you jump through unnecessary hoops. No hoops here.
• An Entrepreneur Business Yoda to mentor and coach you.
• GTM support to help you grow and get paying customers.
• On demand resources that guide you through your entrepreneur journey.

• Simply answer two questions on the application page.
• At the heart of our grants, there's no limit to your business dream. From pioneering scientists to artisan bakers, we encourage diverse passions and pursuits.
• So what truly matters is you—the woman or women driving the business forward. We value authenticity over corporate jargon; past winners have simply shared their stories - real passion and vision can’t be faked - so let your’s shine.
• We seek not only business acumen but also the fiery passion that fuels your entrepreneurial journey.

The Cromwell High School Alumni Scholarship Fund provides a one-time award of $1,000 for West Noble High School seniors residing in Sparta Township. Eligible applicants must plan to attend accredited higher education institutions or vocational training programs. Established by the Cromwell High School Alumni Committee in 2016, the fund aims to support students in pursuing their educational goals while honoring the values and memories associated with their alma mater.

The Scottie W. Cox Memorial Scholarship of NCCCLA supports employees of learning resources centers in North Carolina pursuing advanced degrees in library and information studies. Eligible applicants must have at least a bachelor's degree and be enrolled in accredited programs. This scholarship, administered by the North Carolina Community Foundation, opens for applications on December 16, 2025, and closes on March 3, 2026. It aims to enhance professional development in the library sector.

The Reid Sasnett Memorial Scholarship Endowment supports graduating seniors from Pungo Christian Academy and Beaufort County high schools pursuing higher education. This scholarship aims to aid students who exhibit strong character, leadership, and community service, especially those passionate about agriculture and wildlife. Applications open on Dec. 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026, with preference for volunteer firefighters and Pungo Academy alumni.

The Bertha Sawyer Meiggs & Winfred B. Meiggs Sr. Family Scholarship supports graduating seniors from Camden, Gates, Pasquotank, and Perquimans counties, with a preference for Camden County residents. Eligible candidates must demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership skills, and community involvement while enrolling full-time in a two- or four-year college. The scholarship may be renewed at the discretion of the Scholarship Committee, subject to academic criteria and available funds.

Newman’s Own Foundation is offering the Food Justice for Kids Prize, providing up to $100,000 in grant funding over two years for organizations promoting food justice for children in the U.S. This initiative focuses on Indigenous Food Justice and Nutrition Education, addressing the high rates of food insecurity among children, particularly in marginalized communities. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, public schools, and tribes that serve children under 18. The foundation aims to ensure all kids have access to nutritious food and education on sustainable food systems.

The Sammy and Shirley Church Scholarship supports students from Ashe County, NC, including those graduating from the NC School of Science and Math. Eligible candidates must demonstrate academic excellence, physical vigor, and leadership in various activities. Financial need is considered but not the only criterion. Applications open on Dec. 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026. Ensure to meet specific eligibility requirements set by the donor for successful application.

The Ruby A. Trivette Ruritan Scholarship, administered by the North Carolina Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashe and Watauga counties in North Carolina. Eligible applicants must reside in Todd or be active members or children of active members of the Todd Ruritan Club. This scholarship opens for applications on December 16, 2025, and closes on March 3, 2026, providing crucial financial assistance for students pursuing higher education.

The Addressing Health Inequities in Clinical Diagnostics program invites Small Business Concerns to develop innovative clinical diagnostics that tackle health disparities. This initiative emphasizes identifying and addressing issues within existing clinical diagnostics that contribute to inequities, ensuring inclusive solutions for diverse patient populations. By fostering advancements in clinical lab assays and point-of-care devices, the program aims to create equitable healthcare opportunities for all.

The Robert E. Barnhill, Sr. Scholarship Fund provides financial support for North Carolina high school seniors who plan to attend a four-year college or university as full-time students. Eligible applicants are evaluated on leadership potential, community involvement, academic achievement, and financial need. The scholarship may be renewed for up to three additional years, contingent upon maintaining a 2.0 GPA and continuous enrollment. Applications open on December 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026.

The RAK Education Foundation Scholarship provides financial assistance to residents of Camden, Chowan, Gates, Pasquotank, or Perquimans Counties who have earned a high school diploma or GED. This scholarship supports students pursuing degrees or certificates in Career and Technical Education fields such as trade education, computer science, business, health science, and more. Applications open on December 16, 2025, and close on March 3, 2026, encouraging eligible students to apply.

The Addressing Health Inequities in Clinical Diagnostics initiative invites Small Business Concerns to develop innovative clinical diagnostics that rectify health disparities in diverse patient populations. Applications should identify a specific inequity in current diagnostic practices and propose actionable solutions. This funding opportunity promotes inclusivity in clinical settings, ensuring that diagnostics are effective across varied demographics. All submissions must adhere to the deadline of 5:00 PM local time for the applicant organization.

The Ackerman Scholarship Fund, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation, aims to provide financial support for members of the Boys & Girls Club of Western Pennsylvania pursuing higher education. This initiative focuses on assisting those who demonstrate financial need and have shown commitment to the club and community service. Eligible applicants must be graduating high school seniors from Allegheny or Somerset County, maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0, and planning to attend an accredited institution.

The Braddock Citizen Scholarship Fund, established by the Pittsburgh Foundation, aims to support students from Braddock, PA (zip code 15104) who are pursuing higher education. Eligible applicants include graduating seniors from Woodland Hills or Propel High Schools and undergraduate students. To qualify, candidates must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. This fund reflects the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering community growth.

The Don Brockett Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation, supports students pursuing the performing and theatrical arts at Carnegie Mellon University, Chatham University, or Point Park University. It aims to assist those with special talents, financial need, and a GPA between 2.5 and 3.5, while fostering well-rounded individuals who demonstrate self-discipline and motivation beyond academics. This scholarship honors the legacy of Don Brockett and empowers the next generation of artists in Pittsburgh.

Chautauqua Region Community Foundation

Mission: In partnership with our community, we ignite positive change and create a legacy of impact.

Scholarships

The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation annually awards more than $2 million in scholarships to students pursuing higher education, job training and certification. The Foundation hosts several different scholarship opportunities throughout the year. 

Workforce Training

Open to adult residents of Chautauqua County enrolled in a certification program outside of higher educational degree. Examples include phlebotomist, LPN, CNA, EMT, Radiologic Technologist, Automotive Technician, CDL, HVAC, Welding, Machining etc.

The Michael Baker International Iraq Survivors Scholarship Fund, established by the Pittsburgh Foundation, provides educational scholarships for children and spouses of U.S. service members who have served since the Iraq war began in March 2003. Eligible applicants must be high school seniors or graduates with a minimum GPA of 2.8, residing in specific Pennsylvania counties. This initiative honors the sacrifices of military families by facilitating access to vocational and higher education opportunities.

The Nimick/Hansen Employee Scholarship Fund, established by the Dollar Bank Foundation at The Pittsburgh Foundation, aims to support children of Dollar Bank employees with scholarships. Eligible applicants must be high school seniors or undergraduate students, demonstrate financial need, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. This fund reflects the Pittsburgh Foundation's commitment to enhancing community welfare and educational opportunities for families affiliated with Dollar Bank.

The Oliver L. Johnson and William A. Lester Families Fund, established by the Pittsburgh Foundation, aims to empower students facing financial hardships, particularly those affected by systemic barriers to education. This fund supports high school seniors from Allegheny County and surrounding areas who demonstrate academic potential and leadership. With a focus on furthering education beyond high school, it seeks to foster a diverse range of opportunities for deserving individuals to contribute positively to society.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Community Foundation of Henderson County was incorporated in 1982 by a group of fourteen dedicated and compassionate local leaders with the immediate need to manage two funds - the William C. Armstrong Scholarship Fund and the Charlie Renfrow Scholarship Fund, in addition to providing a permanent vehicle for citizens to give back to their community.

Our Mission is to help people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter. The Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

Jenice Schlein Denning Scholarship

This scholarship is to provide assistance with educational expenses for students who cannot otherwise afford attendance at an institution of higher learning. The applicant must be matriculating to a bachelor degree graduate institution, shown academic potential, and be pursuing a 4 year degree at an accredited two-year or four-year college or university. Financial need should be a major consideration for this award.

The scholarship is renewable.

The Patrick Munn Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Pittsburgh Foundation, honors the memory of Patrick Munn, who passed away in 2022. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from select high schools in southwestern Pennsylvania who demonstrate financial need and a commitment to education, particularly those involved in school marching bands. The fund aims to empower students who embody Patrick's spirit of kindness and enthusiasm for learning, ensuring his legacy continues in the community.

The Richard A. and Charlotte Cohn Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation, honors the legacy of Richard and Charlotte Cohn by supporting high school seniors from Temple Emanuel of South Hills. This scholarship aims to recognize students who have demonstrated service to their community and possess outstanding character. Recipients will be encouraged to pursue their education at accredited vocational schools or colleges, ensuring their continued growth and contribution to society.

The Graduate Student Scholarship: Student With a Disability Scholarship, offered by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation, supports graduate students with disabilities pursuing degrees in communication sciences and disorders. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in an accredited program. This scholarship aims to foster academic achievement and provide financial assistance for educational expenses. Applicants may also consider additional scholarship categories but can only receive one award. Up to 15 scholarships of $5,000 are available.

The Food and Farm Communications Fund's Wildseed Grants program supports grassroots organizations in the U.S. that aim to bring transformative change to food and agricultural systems. With grants ranging from $20,000 to $50,000 for one year, and up to $75,000 for two years, the program emphasizes strategic communications, community engagement, and racial equity. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with the Fund’s mission and have a revenue of less than $3 million.

The Vladimir R. Bakaleinikoff Memorial Fund, established by The Pittsburgh Foundation, offers scholarships to undergraduate music students entering their senior year. This fund honors Vladimir R. Bakaleinikoff's legacy by supporting students who demonstrate financial need and have a minimum GPA of 2.0. Eligible applicants must be rising juniors or seniors from Allegheny County, PA, pursuing a degree in music, ensuring continued investment in the arts within the community.