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Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

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

32,000+

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$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

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

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32,499 Results based on applied filters

Kiger-Obaugh Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
Private
Montgomery County, Virginia
Unspecified amount

Kiger-Obaugh Scholarship

Friends of the late John Kiger (1955-2016) and Alan Obaugh (1959-2024) have established a scholarship to honor these two exceptional individuals and to support Staunton, Waynesboro and Augusta County youth pursue their college aspirations. 

Education - Higher Education

The Doyle O. and Lelia Jane Bateman Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

The Doyle O. and Lelia Jane Bateman Scholarship

The Doyle O. and Lelia Jane Bateman Scholarship, established at the Community Foundation in 2018, honors the memory of husband and wife of 46 years, Doyle and Jane Bateman. Jane worked as a successful realtor in Waynesboro for over 25 years and enjoyed giving back to her community.

The Doyle O. and Lelia Jane Bateman Scholarship will provide college scholarships to deserving students of any age, to include high school seniors (public, private, and homeschool) as well as adult students residing in Staunton, Waynesboro and Augusta County. Selection considerations for the scholarship include, but are not limited to, financial need, involvement in school and community activities, and a strong desire to succeed in school and life.

Education - Higher Education

Long Beach Navy Memorial Heritage Association Grants

Long Beach Community Foundation
Private
Los Angeles County, California
US $5,000 - US $50,000
The Long Beach Navy Memorial Heritage Association Grants support nonprofit and for-profit entities in preserving the historical resources of Long Beach. Founded in 1998, the Association prioritizes projects that honor the contributions of the Long Beach Naval Station and architect Paul Revere Williams. Eligible projects must be publicly beneficial, located within Long Beach, and align with established historic preservation standards. Funding focuses on direct project expenses, excluding endowments or completed projects. The Association encourages collaborative funding efforts.
Historic Preservation

Michael Aurbach Fellowship for Excellence in Visual Art

College Art Association
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $7,500
The Michael Aurbach Fellowship for Excellence in Visual Art, awarded by the College Art Association, supports artist members with an MFA or equivalent who teach studio classes. This fellowship provides a $7,500 award and conference registration to a qualifying artist, focusing on their artistic work rather than a proposal. It aims to recognize and empower visual arts professionals in academia.
Visual Arts

Family Trust Federal Credit Union: The Penny Pratt Scholarship

Carolinas Credit Union Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Family Trust Federal Credit Union: The Penny Pratt Scholarship

Family Trust is committed to supporting future leaders in our community. The Penny Pratt Scholarships are opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students through Family Trust.

Academic Scholarship Programs

Andrew Monroe Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of Sarasota County
Private
Sarasota County, Florida
US $1,000
The Andrew Monroe Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Andrew Monroe, who tragically lost his life in 2011. This scholarship awards three $1,000 scholarships annually to graduating senior soccer players in Sarasota County, Florida. Administered by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, it supports students who demonstrate financial need and community involvement. Applicants must write an essay and plan to pursue further education, making this scholarship a meaningful opportunity for aspiring athletes.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Downes - Jay and Rheba Downes Memorial Scholarship

Coastal Bend Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Mission and Vision

The Mission of the Foundation is to improve the quality of life in the Coastal Bend by building community endowment and addressing social, educational, environmental, and cultural needs through the awarding of grants and scholarships.

The Foundation’s Vision is to provide the Coastal Bend with:

  • Efficient gift options to meet donors’ charitable wishes
  • Effective grants to charitable organizations and scholarships to students
  • Ethical leadership to promote and enhance area philanthropy

Scholarships

The CBCF scholarship is open each year. Scholarships awarded will be for the following academic year. Scholarships are available only to students who graduated from a high school in one of the counties in the CBCF Service Area: Aransas, Bee, Jim Wells, Kleberg, Nueces, Refugio and San Patricio. Thanks to our generous donors, the Coastal Bend Community Foundation (CBCF) offers scholarships to students from over 100 funds.

Downes - Jay and Rheba Downes Memorial Scholarship

Purpose

In memory of James Ed (Jay) Downes, an Alice businessman and civic leader, and his wife, Rheba. Mr. Downes founded and served as chief executive of Energy Dynamics, an oilfield equipment and service provider in the domestic and international markets. He was named 1995 Citizen of the Year by the Alice Chamber of Commerce and is a member of its Hall of Honor. He served on the Alice Industrial Foundation Board, the Alice/Jim Wells County Transportation Committee and served as president of the Jim Wells County Master Planners Association in 1993-1994. Jay was an avid golfer and understood the value of a university education. He died unexpectedly in 2000. His wife, Rheba, passed away in 2013.

Education - Higher Education

1772 Foundation: Historic Properties Redevelopment Programs

1772 Foundation
Private
United States
US $10,000 - US $75,000
The 1772 Foundation, in collaboration with the National Preservation Partners Network, is opening its 2026 grant cycle for Historic Property Redevelopment Programs (HPRP). This initiative aims to support nonprofit organizations in the U.S. focused on historic property revitalization. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) designation and be NPPN members. Grants typically range from $50,000 to $75,000, promoting sustainable practices that address community revitalization and heritage conservation.
Historic Preservation

Jefferson County Helen Parker Willard Fund – Historic Cemetery Grant

Eastern West Virginia Community Foundation
Private
Jefferson County, West Virginia
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Jefferson County Helen Parker Willard Fund offers grants for the maintenance and restoration of historic cemeteries in Jefferson County, West Virginia. Funded by the Eastern West Virginia Community Foundation, these grants support nonprofit organizations in preserving Civil War era monuments and beautifying abandoned graves. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, government agencies, and civic groups. The initiative encourages projects that promote diversity and inclusion within the community.
Historic Preservation

David Cappannari Scholarship

Southcoast Community Foundation
Private
Massachusetts
Unspecified amount

About Us

As a tax-exempt, public charity, the SouthCoast Community Foundation offers donors the guidance and flexibility to fulfill their philanthropic goals. We serve a range of charitable individuals, families, and corporations whose main concern is improving the quality of life in our community.

The SouthCoast Community Foundation allocates individual, family, and corporate funds to meet community needs. To date, the organization has distributed over $60 million from more than 200 funds to humanitarian, educational, and cultural organizations in the region.

Scholarship Resources

The SouthCoast Community Foundation is proud to offer scholarship opportunities to students in our community. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with more than $800k awarded to local students each year.

Most SouthCoast Community Foundation scholarships are available through our online scholarship portal. Unless otherwise noted, scholarships are available through the Universal Application, which automatically pairs eligible students with all available scholarships.

David Cappannari Scholarship

The David Cappannari Scholarship Fund of the SouthCoast Community Foundation was established to provide tuition assistance to graduating Plymouth high schools seniors who plan to attend college.

Education - Higher Education

Charles and Pierina Fossati Scholarship

Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation
Private
Litchfield County, Connecticut
US $750

Established by Eleanor Fossati in memory of her parents, this scholarship is awarded to Torrington High School graduates who demonstrate exemplary character.

Education - Higher Education

Gifted and Talented Graduate Course Program Discretionary Grant

South Carolina Department of Education
State/Local Government
South Carolina
Approximately US $10,500

The South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) will award Gifted and Talented (GT) Graduate Course Program grants to institutions of higher education (IHEs) that offer tuition-free graduate courses for teachers who are pursuing either endorsement or certification in GT education. These courses will be designed for the following topics:

  • Nature and Needs of Gifted and Talented Students
  • Introduction to Curriculum and Instruction for Gifted and Talented Students
  • Advanced Curriculum for Gifted and Talented Students
  • Student Identification, Current Trends, and Issues in Gifted and Talented Education
  • Social and Emotional Needs of Gifted Learners
  • Special Topic Seminars in Gifted and Talented Education; and
  • Other topics applicable to gifted education.
Education - Higher Education

Saigh Foundation Bravo Grants

The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis
Association/Society
Bond County, Illinois, Calhoun County, Illinois +12 more
Up to US $12,000
The Saigh Foundation Bravo Grants provide renewable scholarships of $12,000 per year to graduating high school seniors from the St. Louis metropolitan area who demonstrate significant financial need. These grants aim to support students who have overcome extraordinary challenges in their educational journey. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and plan to attend an accredited nonprofit college or university. This initiative focuses on enhancing the quality of life for children and youth through education.
Academic Scholarship Programs

College Club of New Bedford, Inc. Scholarship

Southcoast Community Foundation
Private
Massachusetts
Unspecified amount

About Us

As a tax-exempt, public charity, the SouthCoast Community Foundation offers donors the guidance and flexibility to fulfill their philanthropic goals. We serve a range of charitable individuals, families, and corporations whose main concern is improving the quality of life in our community.

The SouthCoast Community Foundation allocates individual, family, and corporate funds to meet community needs. To date, the organization has distributed over $60 million from more than 200 funds to humanitarian, educational, and cultural organizations in the region.

Scholarship Resources

The SouthCoast Community Foundation is proud to offer scholarship opportunities to students in our community. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with more than $800k awarded to local students each year.

Most SouthCoast Community Foundation scholarships are available through our online scholarship portal. Unless otherwise noted, scholarships are available through the Universal Application, which automatically pairs eligible students with all available scholarships.

College Club of New Bedford, Inc. Scholarship

The College Club of New Bedford, Inc. Fund provides scholarships to young women who are graduates or graduating seniors of the following high schools: New Bedford, Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical, Bishop Stang, Dartmouth, and Fairhaven.

Education - Higher Education

Hardin County Bar Association Scholarship

Central Kentucky Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

Hardin County Bar Association Scholarship

The applicant must be a resident of Hardin County.

Additional documentation requirements

  • An essay expressing how you are an example of a good citizen, how you exhibit a keen sense of justice and fair play in your attitude towards others, why the financial assistance is important to you and any interest you have in a legal career
  • Letter of recommendation from guidance counselor or principal
Education - Higher Education

Suncoast Scholars: College Scholarships - Charlotte County

Suncoast Credit Union Foundation
Private
Charlotte County, Florida
US $2,000
The Suncoast Scholars program, managed by the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation, offers three $2,000 scholarships to deserving high school seniors in Charlotte County. Established in 1990, the Foundation has awarded over $3.1 million in scholarships to support local students in their pursuit of higher education. Eligible candidates must be high school seniors with strong academic performance and leadership skills, planning to attend accredited colleges or technical schools in Florida.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Suncoast Scholars: College Scholarships - Citrus County

Suncoast Credit Union Foundation
Private
Citrus County, Florida
US $2,000
The Suncoast Credit Union Foundation offers $2,000 scholarships to high school seniors in Citrus County, demonstrating a commitment to education since 1990. Eligible applicants must attend a public or charter school, show financial need, and plan to enroll in a Florida college or technical school for the 2025-26 academic year. This initiative supports students in covering tuition and other essential educational expenses.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Suncoast Scholars: College Scholarships - Broward County

Suncoast Credit Union Foundation
Private
Broward County, Florida
Unspecified amount
The Suncoast Credit Union Foundation is offering eight $2,500 scholarships to high school seniors in Broward County. Since 1990, they have provided over $3.1 million in scholarships to support students pursuing higher education. Eligible candidates must demonstrate financial need, possess leadership qualities, and plan to enroll in an accredited college or technical school in Florida for the 2025-26 academic year. This initiative underscores the foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the community.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Wayne County 4-H General Scholarship

Wayne County Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

About Us

Who We Are

The Wayne County Community Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) community organization that works to strengthen the community we all share by helping donors make a lasting difference with their philanthropic endeavors – connecting their dreams and passions with causes that matter.

Established in 1978 with a single gift of $1,000, WCCF has become the steward of over 620 separate funds created from bequests and gifts, each with their own philanthropic purpose to support the future of our community now – and for many years to come.

The mission of Wayne County Community Foundation is to provide philanthropic leadership to our community.

Wayne County 4-H General Scholarship

Term: One Year

Amount: Varies

Number Awards: Varies

Education - Higher Education

The Christal Foundation Grant

Christal Foundation
Private
Atascosa County, Texas, Bandera County, Texas +6 more
Unspecified amount
The Christal Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations working towards the welfare of homeless felines in the San Antonio area. Founded by Lyn and Tom Christal, the foundation emerged from their dedicated animal rescue efforts, particularly for the numerous homeless cats in Brackenridge Park. The grant aims to fund initiatives for the care and protection of imperiled felines, ensuring betterment and prevention of cruelty within the community.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

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

CFNF: Share Your Story Video Challenge Grant

Community Foundation of North Florida
Private
Leon County, Florida
US $1,500
The CFNF Share Your Story Video Challenge Grant provides $1,500 grants to nonprofit organizations in Leon County that serve Low-to-Moderate Income (LMI) individuals. This initiative encourages nonprofits to showcase their impact through video storytelling, highlighting their support for the community. The Community Foundation of North Florida, in partnership with Prime Meridian Bank, aims to empower these organizations to enhance their outreach and operational capabilities while fostering community engagement.
Poverty Alleviation & Services

Madison County Community Foundation: Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship

Madison County Community Foundation
Private
Indiana
US $900 - US $3,600

About MCCF

Mission & Priorities

Our goal at Madison County Community Foundation is to invest in lasting positive change to elevate and strengthen Madison County. We envision Madison County as a community where every person has the opportunity to thrive. 

Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program

The Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for Madison County is administered by the Madison County Community Foundation.

Madison County's Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship is awarded to two students, who will be provided eight semesters of full tuition, required fees, and a special allocation of $900 per year for required books and required equipment for four years of undergraduate study on a full time basis, leading to a baccalaureate degree at any Indiana public or private college or university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

In our selection process, applications will be reviewed by a committee of community members. Reviews are completed anonymously without disclosure of student or parent identity. Each Lilly finalist who is not selected as a recipient will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship from the Madison County Community Foundation.

The primary purposes of the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program are:

  • to help raise the level of educational attainment in Indiana;
  • to increase awareness of the beneficial roles Indiana community foundations can play in their communities; and
  • to encourage and support the efforts of current and past Lilly Endowment Community Scholars to engage with each other and with Indiana business, governmental, educational, nonprofit and civic leaders to improve the quality of life in Indiana generally and in local communities throughout the state.
  • Education - Higher Education

    San Patricio/Aransas County A&H Scholarship

    Coastal Bend Community Foundation
    Private
    United States
    US $4,000

    About Us

    Mission and Vision

    The Mission of the Foundation is to improve the quality of life in the Coastal Bend by building community endowment and addressing social, educational, environmental, and cultural needs through the awarding of grants and scholarships.

    San Patricio/Aransas County A&H Scholarship

    Purpose:

    Established by San Patricio and Aransas County to encourage students to complete high school and attend college.

    Amount:

    $4,000 over 4 years/several available

    Education - Higher Education

    Adna B. Fulton Family Scholarship Fund

    Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland
    Private
    Washington County, Maryland
    Unspecified amount

    About the Community Foundation of Washington County

    The Community Foundation of Washington County serves as vehicle for philanthropy and a powerful force in improving the quality of life in Washington County. We partner with individuals, families and businesses to create or donate to funds that meet their charitable goals and provide for the causes they care about the most. 

    The Community Foundation of Washington County, MD offers more than 100 scholarships for graduating high school students and non-traditional students in continuing education. Adna B. Fulton Family Scholarship Fund

    Established by Mr. Fulton to provide scholarships to Washington County students pursuing a post-secondary education, with preference given to employees of AC&T and their children/grandchildren.

    Education - Higher Education

    AAUW Hagerstown Scholarship

    Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland
    Private
    Washington County, Maryland
    Unspecified amount

    About the Community Foundation of Washington County

    The Community Foundation of Washington County serves as vehicle for philanthropy and a powerful force in improving the quality of life in Washington County. We partner with individuals, families and businesses to create or donate to funds that meet their charitable goals and provide for the causes they care about the most. 

    The Community Foundation of Washington County, MD offers more than 100 scholarships for graduating high school students and non-traditional students in continuing education. AAUW Hagerstown Scholarship

    The AAUW (American Association of University Women) Hagerstown (MD) Branch created this scholarship to financially assist deserving female students living in Washington County, MD. Preference will be given to non-traditional/post-secondary students.

    Education - Higher Education

    Dr. Charles H. Glatfelter Scholarship

    Adams County Community Foundation
    Private
    United States
    US $2,000

    About the Community Foundation

    Our mission:

    To inspire people and communities to build and distribute charitable funds for good, for Adams County, for ever.

    Our vision:

    To be a leading resource in promoting philanthropy among people of all means who wish to make a lasting and meaningful contribution to Adams County, and creating opportunities to develop and strengthen our communities.

    Dr. Charles H. Glatfelter Scholarship Application

    For any descendant of Casper Glattfelder who was the first of his family to arrive in the United States in 1743. Students are not required to be residents of Adams County, Pennsylvania. This award is open to all descendants nation wide.

    Education - Higher Education

    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.