Upcoming Webinar
How Funders Feel About AI, and What Keeps Them Saying Yes.
Wed, Oct 14 @ 2PM ET

Skip to main content
Main content

Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

Get professional development grants for nonprofit staff training, leadership growth, and skills-based learning.

32,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

Skip the search.

Get matched with grants that actually fit.

Smart recommendations based on your profile — in minutes.

Find me grants

Filters

32,483 Results based on applied filters

Lizard Island Doctoral Fellowships

Australian Museum
Private
Australia
Up to A $15,400
The Lizard Island Doctoral Fellowships support exceptional PhD students conducting field-intensive research at the Lizard Island Research Station. Since 1984, it has funded 81 students, offering up to AU$15,400 annually for three years. The program emphasizes fieldwork, allowing funds for necessary expenses like travel and consumables, but not salaries. Applications are evaluated by experts and can be submitted for multiple fellowships with one application. Additional funding is available for conference presentations.
Marine Biology

Alva Hospital Authority Scholarship

Communities Foundation of Oklahoma
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Communities Foundation of Oklahoma

The Communities Foundation of Oklahoma stems from the vision of Tom McCasland Jr., and Gene Rainbolt. Two decades ago, these gentlemen formed a shared vision to create a single philanthropic organization to serve the charitable needs to rural communities across the great state of Oklahoma. Today, CFO has grown to assist hundreds of efforts in more than 45 counties.

Scholarship Opportunities

CFO offers over 100 diverse scholarship opportunities, empowering students across the state to pursue their educational goals. Each scholarship is tailored to meet unique needs, making higher education more accessible for all.

Alva Hospital Authority Scholarship

Provides a scholarship to graduating seniors from the Share Medical Center service area: Woods County, Oklahoma; Alfalfa County, Oklahoma; Barber County, Kansas who best meet the criteria. In partnership with the Share Medical Center Foundation.

Education - Higher Education

Youth Engaged in Philanthropy Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

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.

Youth Engaged in Philanthropy Scholarship

The Youth Engaged in Philanthropy Scholarship Fund provides a college scholarship as part of Marion Community Foundation’s annual Scholarship Program. Each year the high school senior members participate in the selection process to recommend a scholarship recipient.

The scholarship awards are available to graduates and seniors from any high school in Marion who have been a resident of Marion County throughout their entire high school experience and have demonstrated commitment and dedication to community service, volunteerism, and philanthropy.

Education - Higher Education

Y-Men’s Service Club Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

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.

Y-Men’s Service Club Scholarship

The Y-Men’s Service Club Scholarship Fund supports students from any high school located in Marion County (Ohio) with a 3.0 grade point average or higher. Special consideration is given to family members of Club members in good standing.

The Y-Men created this scholarship with the intent of creating a permanent fund to help local students further their education and to create more awareness of the Y-Men’s Service Club.

Education - Higher Education

Dorothy Olson Scholarship

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Inc.
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Scholarships

The mission of the Marshfield Area Community Foundation is “Connecting people who care with causes that matter to enrich the quality of life in the Marshfield area”. Education is a valuable tool and a cause that matters to all of us. Through assisting students with financial support to receive an education, not only do students and the families of those students benefit, but also our community benefits, which further allows us to achieve our mission of enriching the quality of life in the Marshfield area.

Geographical Area

The official geographic service area of Marshfield Area Community Foundation, Inc., beginning to our west and traveling clockwise, includes the following communities in addition to Marshfield (It also includes towns and rural areas between these communities.): Chili, Granton, Neillsville, Loyal, Greenwood, Withee, Owen, Spencer, Unity, Colby, Curtiss, Pittsville, Abbotsford, Dorchester, Stetsonville, Medford, Stratford, Rozellville, Hewitt, Auburndale, Blenker, Milladore, Sherry, Arpin.

Dorothy Olson Scholarship

This scholarship is for a returning student from the Marshfield Foundation service area wanting to continue their education. Preference to students going into healthcare or the trades.

Education - Higher Education

Dr. Roger Van Der Vorste Fund Scholarship

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Inc.
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Scholarships

The mission of the Marshfield Area Community Foundation is “Connecting people who care with causes that matter to enrich the quality of life in the Marshfield area”. Education is a valuable tool and a cause that matters to all of us. Through assisting students with financial support to receive an education, not only do students and the families of those students benefit, but also our community benefits, which further allows us to achieve our mission of enriching the quality of life in the Marshfield area.

Geographical Area

The official geographic service area of Marshfield Area Community Foundation, Inc., beginning to our west and traveling clockwise, includes the following communities in addition to Marshfield (It also includes towns and rural areas between these communities.): Chili, Granton, Neillsville, Loyal, Greenwood, Withee, Owen, Spencer, Unity, Colby, Curtiss, Pittsville, Abbotsford, Dorchester, Stetsonville, Medford, Stratford, Rozellville, Hewitt, Auburndale, Blenker, Milladore, Sherry, Arpin.

Dr. Roger Van Der Vorste Fund Scholarship

This scholarship is for a student in the MACFI service area who plans to attend a school in the UW system, WI Technical College, or Marquette full-time, pursuing an undergraduate degree. Preference to program of study leading to degree in dentistry or dental hygiene. Student should show academic merit, character, and motivation. Renewable for 1 year.

Education - Higher Education

Fore Bill Scholarship

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Inc.
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Scholarships

The mission of the Marshfield Area Community Foundation is “Connecting people who care with causes that matter to enrich the quality of life in the Marshfield area”. Education is a valuable tool and a cause that matters to all of us. Through assisting students with financial support to receive an education, not only do students and the families of those students benefit, but also our community benefits, which further allows us to achieve our mission of enriching the quality of life in the Marshfield area.

Geographical Area

The official geographic service area of Marshfield Area Community Foundation, Inc., beginning to our west and traveling clockwise, includes the following communities in addition to Marshfield (It also includes towns and rural areas between these communities.): Chili, Granton, Neillsville, Loyal, Greenwood, Withee, Owen, Spencer, Unity, Colby, Curtiss, Pittsville, Abbotsford, Dorchester, Stetsonville, Medford, Stratford, Rozellville, Hewitt, Auburndale, Blenker, Milladore, Sherry, Arpin.

Fore Bill Scholarship

This scholarship is for a graduating senior from Marshfield or Columbus High school OR a nontraditional student living in Marshfield. Student must be attending an accredited college pursuing an undergraduate degree. 

Education - Higher Education

Chun Foundation Grant Program

Chun Foundation
Private
Hawaii
US $10,000 - US $25,000
The Chun Foundation Grant Program supports medical research and care for children under 15 in Hawaii. Established in 1994, the foundation honors the legacy of its founder's family by providing financial assistance to community organizations that help children with diseases. Eligible recipients must be local children in need, and funds are allocated for medical expenses not covered by insurance, including transportation costs for treatment. This initiative aims to alleviate the healthcare burden on families.
Children’s Health & Pediatrics

Strong Foundation Grant - Program Grants

Strong Foundation
Private
Hawaii
Unspecified amount
The Strong Foundation Grant provides support for youth-oriented programs in Hawaii. Organizations can apply for a grant every three years, with a maximum of one grant per organization. It is essential to have a trustee sponsor from the Strong Foundation to support the application, ensuring that the charity's needs are well understood. Grants are focused on capital needs and are designed to make a significant impact in the community.
Youth Services

International Studies Scholarship

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Inc.
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Scholarships

The mission of the Marshfield Area Community Foundation is “Connecting people who care with causes that matter to enrich the quality of life in the Marshfield area”. Education is a valuable tool and a cause that matters to all of us. Through assisting students with financial support to receive an education, not only do students and the families of those students benefit, but also our community benefits, which further allows us to achieve our mission of enriching the quality of life in the Marshfield area.

Geographical Area

The official geographic service area of Marshfield Area Community Foundation, Inc., beginning to our west and traveling clockwise, includes the following communities in addition to Marshfield (It also includes towns and rural areas between these communities.): Chili, Granton, Neillsville, Loyal, Greenwood, Withee, Owen, Spencer, Unity, Colby, Curtiss, Pittsville, Abbotsford, Dorchester, Stetsonville, Medford, Stratford, Rozellville, Hewitt, Auburndale, Blenker, Milladore, Sherry, Arpin.

International Studies Scholarship

This scholarship is for students attaining any post-secondary degree. Student must have taken a world language for 3 years (high school applicants) or 3 semesters (college applicants). Preference to students majoring in International Studies, Cultural Studies, or any World Language. This scholarship can be renewed for up to 3 years if the applicant still meets the criteria.

Education - Higher Education

Akron Bar Foundation Grant

Akron Bar Association Foundation
Private
Summit County, Ohio
Unspecified amount

About Us

Since its founding in 1875, the Akron Bar Association has served as the primary guardian of the Summit County legal system. Through education, advocacy and community service, the Akron Bar empowers its members to reflect the highest professional standards, enabling them to earn the community’s utmost respect so our legal system will be recognized as fair, accessible and just.

Mission Statement

The Akron Bar Association, through education, advocacy and community service, empowers its members to reflect the highest professional standards, enabling them to earn the community’s utmost respect so our legal system will be recognized as fair, accessible and just.

Vision Statement

The Akron Bar Association will be recognized as the voice of the legal community to promote the highest respect for the law and justice system, thereby creating a thriving democracy.

Grants

The Akron Bar Foundation (Foundation) welcomes grant requests from 501(C)(3) nonprofit organizations to fund law-related programs or projects that serve the communities of Summit County, Ohio.

Legal Services

Helen Wardman Naselli Memorial Fund Grant

Helen Wardman Naselli Memorial Fund
Private
Alexandria City, Virginia, Arlington County, Virginia +22 more
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Helen Wardman Naselli Memorial Fund Grant, established in 1990, supports organizations dedicated to aiding elderly individuals in need. The foundation prioritizes funding for charities in the Washington, DC area that provide care and relief for the aged. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt under the Internal Revenue Code. However, larger charitable organizations reliant on public appeals and grants for individuals or capital projects are ineligible for funding.
Senior Services

Fred Harris Daniels Foundation: Capital Grants

The Fred Harris Daniels Foundation
Private
Worcester County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Fred Harris Daniels Foundation offers Capital Grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in the Worcester, MA area, focusing on building construction or improvements. These grants support sustainable solutions to local challenges, particularly for programs benefiting girls aged 10-14. Applications are considered annually, with funding typically spread over three years. Emphasizing arts, culture, education, and social services, the Foundation prioritizes projects near Worcester City, aiming to enhance community self-reliance.
Women & Girl Services

Jean Ebbe Visual and Performing Arts Scholarship

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Inc.
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Scholarships

The mission of the Marshfield Area Community Foundation is “Connecting people who care with causes that matter to enrich the quality of life in the Marshfield area”. Education is a valuable tool and a cause that matters to all of us. Through assisting students with financial support to receive an education, not only do students and the families of those students benefit, but also our community benefits, which further allows us to achieve our mission of enriching the quality of life in the Marshfield area.

Geographical Area

The official geographic service area of Marshfield Area Community Foundation, Inc., beginning to our west and traveling clockwise, includes the following communities in addition to Marshfield (It also includes towns and rural areas between these communities.): Chili, Granton, Neillsville, Loyal, Greenwood, Withee, Owen, Spencer, Unity, Colby, Curtiss, Pittsville, Abbotsford, Dorchester, Stetsonville, Medford, Stratford, Rozellville, Hewitt, Auburndale, Blenker, Milladore, Sherry, Arpin.

Jean Ebbe Visual and Performing Arts Scholarship

This scholarship is for a graduating high school senior attending an accredited school full-time, located in WI or MN pursuing an undergraduate degree. Preference goes to a student who shows a passion for visual arts, like painting, drawing, photography, etc. Student shows academic merit, character, and motivation.

Education - Higher Education

Jewell Educational Scholarship

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Inc.
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount

Marshfield Area Community Foundation Scholarships

The mission of the Marshfield Area Community Foundation is “Connecting people who care with causes that matter to enrich the quality of life in the Marshfield area”. Education is a valuable tool and a cause that matters to all of us. Through assisting students with financial support to receive an education, not only do students and the families of those students benefit, but also our community benefits, which further allows us to achieve our mission of enriching the quality of life in the Marshfield area.

Geographical Area

The official geographic service area of Marshfield Area Community Foundation, Inc., beginning to our west and traveling clockwise, includes the following communities in addition to Marshfield (It also includes towns and rural areas between these communities.): Chili, Granton, Neillsville, Loyal, Greenwood, Withee, Owen, Spencer, Unity, Colby, Curtiss, Pittsville, Abbotsford, Dorchester, Stetsonville, Medford, Stratford, Rozellville, Hewitt, Auburndale, Blenker, Milladore, Sherry, Arpin.

Jewell Educational Scholarship

This scholarship is for a graduate of MHS, Columbus or Marshfield Alternative School who is enrolled at UWSP at Marshfield full-time pursuing an undergraduate degree. Preference to student majoring in business or economics and student who shows academic merit, character, and motivation.

Education - Higher Education

Willie “Beaver” Troutman Football Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

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.

Willie “Beaver” Troutman Football Scholarship

This scholarship, created in 2022, honors Willie “Beaver” Troutman and his longstanding coaching career in Marion County.

For generations to come, this scholarship will assist students financially to further their potential in academics and athletics.

The Willie ‘Beaver’ Troutman Football Scholarship is open to any student-athlete who attended a high school located in Marion County (Ohio) for at least 2 years, maintained a GPA of 2.5 or greater, and demonstrates volunteerism in the community and/or extraordinary financial need.

Education - Higher Education

Voll Family Bowling Green State University Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
Ohio
Unspecified amount

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.

Voll Family Bowling Green State University Scholarship

The Voll Family Bowling Green State University Scholarship Fund was created by Fran Voll in honor of his wife, Marty. Fran created this scholarship fund in her memory to benefit countless future students attending their beloved Bowling Green State University.   

The scholarships will be awarded to Marion County high school seniors or graduates attending Bowling Green State University. 

Education - Higher Education

United Church Homes Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

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.

United Church Homes Scholarship

The United Church Homes Scholarship Fund, created in 2018, supports higher education for Marion area students who intend to pursue a career involving service to older citizens, including, but not limited to, gerontology,

Education - Higher Education

St. John Lutheran Church (Windfall) Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

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.

Education - Higher Education

Robert M. & Dorothy C. Wopat Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

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.

Education - Higher Education

Norman Withrow Golf Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

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.

Education - Higher Education

Nancy O. Whitaker Memorial Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

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. 

Education - Higher Education

Mary Ellen Withrow Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

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. 

Education - Higher Education

Freeport-McMoRan- Native American College Scholarship

Freeport-Mcmoran Copper & Gold Foundation
Corporate
Arizona
US $1,500 - US $15,000
The Freeport-McMoRan Native American College Scholarship supports enrolled tribal members pursuing higher education. Funded by the Freeport-McMoRan Foundation, it offers $3,000 for four-year programs, $1,500 for two-year programs, and $5,000 for graduate studies. Additional funds for trade schools are available, capped at $15,000. Recipients must maintain a 2.5 GPA and engage in the Success Services Program, ensuring academic and career support throughout their educational journey.
Education - Higher Education All fields of work

Marion Women’s Business Council Scholarship

Marion Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

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.

Education - Higher Education

Leifur Eiríksson Foundation Fellowships

Leifur Eiriksson Foundation
Private
Iceland, United States
Up to US $25,000
The Leifur Eiríksson Foundation Fellowship supports U.S. and Icelandic scholars in graduate research or study exchanges between the two countries. Applicants must be enrolled in accredited institutions and demonstrate a well-defined research project. The fellowship covers up to $25,000 in costs, including travel. The program promotes academic collaboration and cultural exchange, helping scholars enhance their education while fostering international relationships. Applications must be submitted by the deadline with all required documentation.
Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges

Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Professional development grants for nonprofits provide funding to enhance staff skills, leadership training, and organizational growth. The following grants help nonprofits improve efficiency, adapt to challenges, and achieve long-term sustainability in their mission-driven work.


Search Instrumentl's Professional Development Grants Database


Explore 8,000+ funding opportunities for professional development, with $3.43B in resources. Instrumentl helps organizations grow by providing grant-matching tools, deadline tracking, and funder insights to support career advancement and success.

Last updated: October 5, 2026. Next update: November 1, 2026.

Grant Insights : Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Quite common — grants in this category are more prevalent than in others.

8,000+ Professional Development grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

3,000+ Professional Development grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

3,000+ Professional Development grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

1,000+ Professional Development grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

7,000+ Professional Development grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Economic Services & Development

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Professional Development grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
29.8%
Q2
23.8%
Q3
23.9%
Q4
22.6%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $34,887.

$0 $0 Min.
$34,887 $34.9 K Median
$655,609 $655.6 K Average
$188,250,000 $188.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Professional development grants are available for nonprofits focused on workforce training, leadership development, skill-building, and support for their staff and volunteers. These grants are ideal for organizations looking to boost their team’s skills and impact. Funders often prioritize nonprofits that serve underrepresented communities, focus on equity in leadership, or have a clear plan for using professional development to improve their mission-driven work.

Grants in professional development typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q1, with 29.8% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q4.

The main goal of professional development grants is to help nonprofit teams grow, improve, and become more effective. Funders see professional development grants as an investment for nonprofit professionals to improve their skills, ultimately leading to better leadership, stronger services, and more sustainable organizations. These grants often support leadership training, technical skill development, and mentorship programs that help teams with ongoing learning opportunities.

On average, grants in professional development provide funding between $0 and $188,250,000, with typical awards falling around $34,887 (median) and $655,609 (average). These insights can help nonprofits align their funding requests with what grantmakers typically offer in this space.

Professional development grants are typically funded by private foundations, corporate sponsors, and government agencies. Organizations like the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and Kresge Foundation are known for funding initiatives to build organizational capacity. Some corporations also provide grants to nonprofits that align with their workforce development goals, helping to create stronger communities and more skilled nonprofit professionals.

To improve the chances of receiving private grants, nonprofits should:

  • Research funders carefully – Get to know private funders by learning about their mission, past grant recipients, and funding priorities.
  • Be clear about your goals and expected results – Outline measurable outcomes, how the funds will be used, and what you hope to achieve. Having a history of success can also make your application more convincing.
  • Show financial responsibility – Prove you have good money management and a plan for long-term financial sustainability beyond the grant.
  • Build connections – Meet with grantmakers through networking events, email introductions, or funder Q&As.

Struggling to manage multiple grants? Learn how to stay organized with our comprehensive grant tracking spreadsheet guide.

Instrumentl simplifies the process of applying for professional development grants by offering an intuitive platform that helps nonprofits discover relevant funding opportunities, track deadlines, and analyze funder-giving patterns. The platform's automated alerts ensure users never miss a deadline, while detailed funder insights help organizations tailor their applications to align with grantor priorities.

See how Instrumentl helps you discover grants, cultivate relationships, and apply for funding.