Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Tucson Cactus and Succulent Society Research Grant offers funding for research projects involving cacti and succulents, aligning with the organization's mission of education and knowledge dissemination. Grants support projects lasting up to one year, with the possibility of extensions. Budgets must detail all expenses, and co-funding is encouraged. This initiative aims to enhance understanding and appreciation of these unique plants within the Sonoran Desert ecosystem.

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley 

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their philanthropic goals through the establishment of charitable funds that support the needs of Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster counties. With over $100 million in assets, CFHV manages nearly 600 charitable funds and has distributed more than $777 million in grants and scholarships since January 2000. We lead initiatives to address urgent community needs such as food insecurity and educational challenges, offering both immediate relief and long-term support.

Thomas W. Haggerty Memorial Scholarship

A scholarship/donor advised fund established by Mrs. Ellen Haggerty in memory of her husband, Thomas, who was a social worker in Wappingers Central School District, income from this fund is used to provide scholarships to graduating seniors of John Jay High School and/or Roy C. Ketcham High School who have struggled to overcome personal, financial, family, or educational difficulties.

Type of Award

One-time scholarship payable to school.

Current High School

John Jay High School or Roy C. Ketcham High School

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley 

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their philanthropic goals through the establishment of charitable funds that support the needs of Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster counties. With over $100 million in assets, CFHV manages nearly 600 charitable funds and has distributed more than $777 million in grants and scholarships since January 2000. We lead initiatives to address urgent community needs such as food insecurity and educational challenges, offering both immediate relief and long-term support.

Stephanie D. Brown and Barbara M. Murphy Memorial Scholarship

Established by the family of Stephanie Brown and Barbara Murphy to honor their memories. Stephanie was devoted to children and was tragically killed in a car accident. Barbara was a devoted mother to Stephanie, a Board member of the Community Foundations and held many job titles including that of teacher. This scholarship is available to female Dutchess County high school graduating seniors who intend to major or minor in Education with career plans to teach in Elementary, Middle or High School.

Type of Award

One-time scholarship payable to school.

Current High School

Any Dutchess County High Schools

The Arboriculture Association Research Grant provides funding up to £5,000 for research projects focused on arboriculture, available annually to UK-based applicants. This grant aims to foster knowledge and innovation in the field, supporting studies deemed relevant and valuable by the Arboricultural Association. Applicants are encouraged to propose projects that contribute to the understanding and advancement of arboricultural practices and principles.

About Us

As the community foundation for Eastern Washington and North Idaho, we partner with people who want to improve their communities and make the world better. We work together to identify and respond to our region’s greatest opportunities, help those in need, and leave a lasting impact.

Scholarship

Each year, Innovia awards over $500,000 in scholarships to deserving students like you who are college-bound or pursuing vocational or technical training. Single scholarship awards range between $500 and $10,000.

Idaho Panhandle Dental Society Memorial Scholarship

Applicants must be a resident of one of the five northern counties of Idaho (Boundary, Bonner, Kootenai, Shoshone and Benewah). Applicants must be accepted or enrolled full-time at a post-high school program in the field of dentistry or dental hygiene as a dental hygienist, dental assistant, dental business assistant or dentist. Financial need, academic achievement, and community service are factors for selection.

Previous recipients of this award are eligible to reapply. 

Mark and Kay Burkett Scholarship

Applicants must be American citizens demonstrating financial need and academic achievement, and must have a minimum 3.5 cumulative GPA. Students must reside in or have attended high school within the geographic region served by Innovia Foundation.

Previous recipients are eligible to re-apply. 

The Swain County Community Foundation's Youth are our Future Endowment aims to enhance the quality of life for local youth. Established in 1993, this fund supports various initiatives that cater to the needs of young residents in Swain County. Grants typically range from $500 to $1,250, with a total grantmaking cap of $13,000. This initiative fosters community engagement and empowers youth through targeted funding opportunities.

The New Research Workers Grant, provided by the Quaternary Research Association, supports postgraduate researchers in their studies. It funds essential activities such as field expeditions, geological surveys, and laboratory analyses. Applicants must be registered postgraduates and may only apply once during their studies. The grant prioritizes those with limited funding access. However, it excludes costs related to labor and radiocarbon dating, and does not accept applications from undergraduates or retrospective requests.

The Quaternary Research Small Grant, offered by the Quaternary Research Association, supports research in Quaternary studies for members with at least one year of standing. Eligible expenses include field expeditions, equipment hire, and laboratory analysis. The initiative promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion within the research community. With over 1000 international members, the QRA fosters collaboration among professionals from various scientific disciplines, enhancing the understanding of Quaternary problems and encouraging innovative research.

The Farmers Advocating for Organic Grant (FAFO) supports impactful projects that enhance the organic agricultural sector, focusing on initiatives that assist family farmers and promote organic soil health. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and research institutions. FAFO prioritizes projects that address the needs of organic dairy, meat, and produce farmers while fostering cooperative growth. This grant aims to strengthen the organic industry and ensure the livelihood of organic farmers across the nation.

North Dakota Department of Agriculture

We serve, advocate, protect and promote agriculture to benefit everyone.

Ag Products Utilization Commission (APUC) Grants

The Agricultural Products Utilization Commission (APUC) creates new wealth through the development of new and expanded uses of North Dakota's agricultural products through a grant program.

The first 15 qualifying applicants are invited to present funding proposals on a quarterly basis for the following grant categories:

• Basic and Applied Research
• Marketing and Utilization
• Farm Diversification
• Technical Assistance
• Nature Based Agri-Tourism
• Prototype Development and Technology

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley 

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their philanthropic goals through the establishment of charitable funds that support the needs of Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster counties. With over $100 million in assets, CFHV manages nearly 600 charitable funds and has distributed more than $777 million in grants and scholarships since January 2000. We lead initiatives to address urgent community needs such as food insecurity and educational challenges, offering both immediate relief and long-term support.

Ronnie Berg Drummers Scholarship

Established in memory of gifted drummer Ronnie Berg, this scholarship is available to graduating high school seniors and/or students already in college who share Ronnie’s enthusiasm for drumming. The scholarship will be awarded to individuals who will be full time students at any accredited college or university in the United States. It may be used for tuition, books and fees.

Type of Award

One-time scholarship payable to school.

Current High School

Any high school

Florida Humanities' Book Festival Grants support Florida nonprofit organizations in hosting events that celebrate reading and literature. These grants aim to foster interactions between authors and readers, reflecting the human experience through storytelling. Eligible events can be single or multi-day, held virtually or in-person, and should include authors from Florida and beyond. A minimum 1:1 cost share is required, and festivals must be free or have nominal fees with provisions for reduced admission.

The Jonathan O. Davis Fellowship, offered by the Desert Research Institute, supports exceptional Masters and PhD students conducting research in Quaternary geology, geomorphology, and geoarchaeology within the Great Basin. Awards of up to $2500 for Masters students and $5000 for PhD students are available. This fellowship honors Jonathan O. Davis, a dedicated Quaternary scientist, and aims to foster significant research contributions to understanding this critical geological period.

The FEMS-Jensen Award, established to support Early Career Scientists, honors Dr. Hans Laurits Jensen, a prominent soil microbiologist. This biennial award recognizes outstanding academic achievement in microbiology and offers a fellowship of up to EUR 10,000 for research in a European laboratory. Eligible applicants are European PhD students or recent graduates under 36 years old. The award aims to enhance young scientists' careers by facilitating significant research opportunities.

The FEMS-Lwoff Award for Achievements in Microbiology is a prestigious accolade awarded by the Federation of European Microbiological Societies (FEMS) since 2000. It honors exceptional contributions in microbiology, recognizing individuals or groups who have made significant impacts in the field. Winners receive a prize lecture opportunity, a commemorative silver medal, and an honorarium of €1000. This award aims to reflect diversity and promote high-quality research with societal benefits, encouraging nominations from underrepresented groups.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, initiated by the National Arbor Day Foundation, encourages colleges to foster green environments by recognizing their commitment to tree care and community forestry. By adhering to five standards, campuses can enhance energy efficiency, combat climate change, and promote mental health among students. Participation not only beautifies campuses but also instills pride in students and staff, making the college experience more enriching and sustainable.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, initiated by the Arbor Day Foundation, encourages colleges and universities to cultivate their community forests. This program enhances campus aesthetics, promotes mental health, and contributes to environmental sustainability. By meeting specific standards, institutions can achieve national recognition, fostering pride and involvement among students and staff. Participation not only aids in energy conservation but also educates future generations about environmental stewardship. Join the movement to create greener, healthier campuses for all.

Stars, Stripes & Skilled Trades

General Motors invites eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations to submit proposals for Stars, Stripes & Skilled Trades, a workforce development initiative designed to support veterans, transitioning service members, and military-connected family members—including spouses—in building lasting careers in manufacturing, automotive, and skilled trades. GM is seeking scalable, results-driven programs that create clear pathways to quality careers while recognizing the experience and leadership that veterans and military families bring to American industry. 

We're looking for existing initiatives that:

• Serve career-transitioning service members, veterans, and military-connected family members
• Provide industry-recognized training, certifications, or credentials
• Connect participants to mentorships, quality jobs, and long-term career pathways in manufacturing, automotive technician roles, or skilled trades.

Grant Range

• $100,000 | $250,000 | $500,000

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program by the Arbor Day Foundation promotes the importance of trees and green spaces on college campuses. By meeting five key standards, colleges can earn recognition for their commitment to environmental stewardship. This initiative enhances campus livability, supports mental health, and encourages student involvement in service-learning projects. Participating institutions gain pride and visibility within their communities, contributing to a sustainable future for both students and the planet.

Santa Ynez Valley Foundation

Founded in 1991 by Stuart C. Gildred, Sr., the Santa Ynez Valley Foundation proudly supports programs and services that benefit the Santa Ynez Valley and Los Alamos communities. Our mission focuses on grant-making and active collaboration with nonprofits, community leaders, and grassroots projects to strengthen the social fabric of the region.

More than $7.5 million in grants has been awarded to nearly 300 local organizations, and scholarships have been awarded to 578 students pursuing higher education. By partnering with donors, we continue to fund grants and scholarships that strengthen nonprofits, empower students, and enrich community life. Every gift creates opportunities, fosters connections, and helps build a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

Santa Ynez Valley Foundation: Arts & Culture / Community Enhancement Grant

The Santa Ynez Valley Foundation (SYVF) awards grants to organizations that are certified as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and provide programs and services to people in the Santa Ynez Valley and Los Alamos.

SYVF supports organizations that do not discriminate in their delivery of programs and services based on race, color, religion, gender, national origin, ancestry, age, medical condition, disability, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. SYVF will consider projects from faith-based organizations, provided the projects are secular in nature and open to individuals of all faiths and/or those with no religious affiliation.

The Gallery Collection invites students aged 14 and older to participate in the Annual Create-A-Greeting Card Scholarship contest. The winner will receive a $10,000 scholarship and have their artwork featured on a card sold by the company. This competition is open to high school, college, and university students, as well as home-schooled students, who are legal residents of the U.S. and its territories. Don't miss this opportunity to showcase your talent!

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program in South Carolina, led by the National Arbor Day Foundation, encourages colleges to cultivate community forests and enhance campus greenery. By meeting five key standards, institutions can gain recognition for their commitment to sustainability. This initiative not only beautifies campuses but also promotes mental health and environmental stewardship among students and staff, making it a vital part of the educational experience.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, led by the National Arbor Day Foundation, empowers colleges and universities to enhance their green spaces. By adhering to five standards, institutions can achieve recognition for their commitment to tree care, which promotes environmental health and student well-being. Participating schools enjoy benefits such as energy conservation and improved mental health, while fostering a culture of environmental stewardship among students. This initiative ultimately contributes to healthier, more sustainable campuses.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, initiated by the National Arbor Day Foundation, encourages colleges and universities in Puerto Rico to enhance their campus environments through tree planting and maintenance. This program fosters a commitment to sustainability, providing students with educational opportunities and promoting physical and mental well-being. By achieving recognition, institutions can showcase their dedication to green initiatives, ultimately benefiting both the community and the planet.

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

The Pioneering Aerospace Capabilities, Engineering and Research (PACER) program is a 20-year Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) by the US Air Force aimed at advancing innovative aerospace technologies. This initiative encourages white papers and proposals for research and development to enhance technology readiness levels. It is designed to provide the warfighter with a decisive advantage through transformative technology solutions. Multiple awards are anticipated, allowing for a range of project durations and funding values.