Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Joan Cahalin Robinson Prize, established in 1980 by Dr. Eric Robinson, is awarded annually for the best paper presented by a first-time presenter at the SHOT annual meeting. The prize encourages professional growth, emphasizing both historical research quality and presentation effectiveness. Candidates must be graduate students or recent Ph.D. recipients and submit their papers in advance. The award includes a monetary prize and a certificate, fostering excellence in the field of history and technology.

The CPB Student/PDF Research Grant, offered by the Canadian Society of Zoologists, supports students and post-doctoral members with expenses incurred during research visits. It aims to enhance zoological research through supplementary activities, prioritizing applications that assist core research programs. Open to all nationalities at hosting facilities, applicants must be studying at a Canadian university and can submit only one application per year. This grant reflects the society's commitment to inclusion and equality in the field of zoology.

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties

The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc., strengthens our communities by leading philanthropy and solutions through our direct work in partnership with donors, nonprofits and the community. Our 501(c)3 nonprofit Foundation is the foremost resource for convening partners to elevate people, improve lives and make our community a better place to live.

Grants & Scholarships

Grants power our nonprofit partners on the frontlines of pressing local issues, filling the opportunity gaps through direct-to-people programming.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors. 

The Community Foundation offers both need and merit based scholarships.

Beverly Sommer Scholarship Fund

Scholarship Eligibility

• Graduating high school senior from any Palm Beach or Martin County high school.
• Should be involved in extracurricular activities.
• Must have a 2.5 GPA or better while in high school and a C average in college and demonstrate financial need.

The CSZ Student/PDF Research Grant supports students and post-doctoral fellows from Canadian universities in conducting zoological research through collaborative visits to various research facilities. This initiative by the Canadian Society of Zoologists promotes inclusivity and equality, assisting applicants with expenses related to supplementary research activities. The grant fosters professional development and collaboration in the field of zoology, ensuring that diverse voices are represented in scientific research efforts.

The FY26 Project Grant for Artists from the Nevada Arts Council supports individual artists in producing and presenting artistic projects, with funding up to $3,000. This grant aims to enhance economic vitality and cultural development in Nevada. Eligible projects include exhibitions, performances, and marketing activities. Applicants must be Nevada residents, U.S. citizens or legal residents, and at least 21 years old. The program fosters creativity and supports the artistic community in enriching lives across the state.

The Alpine Garden Society's Hendry Fund Grant supports research and educational projects focused on alpine plants, fostering interest in rock gardening and related small hardy plants. Established from a legacy, it encourages applicants with a serious interest in alpines, regardless of AGS membership. The fund covers various aspects of alpine plant research, including systematics and ecology, although it does not primarily fund travel. This grant also promotes the development of alpine gardens and educational initiatives.

Beyond the Classroom (BTC) Grant

Out of School Time (OST) programming is vital for the well-being and development of children in our region, providing safety, academic support, and social connections while addressing critical community needs. Despite the importance of OST programs, many face significant challenges, including funding gaps, staffing shortages, transportation barriers, and limited access to resources. Addressing these issues is essential to ensure access to equitable opportunities for students and families.

Beyond the Classroom (BTC) features a rolling application process, with regular review and award cycles to ensure timely support. Rapid Response grants allow OST providers to act quickly and effectively, enhancing their ability to serve families and adapt to changing circumstances.

The purpose of Beyond the Classroom grant funding is to alleviate unexpected needs. It is not intended to enhance or expand current programming. Examples may include facility emergencies, such as equipment failure due to age or usage, a sudden increase in demand for services due to a natural disaster, community trauma, or local emergency, or other unanticipated organizational need.

Out of School Time (OST) program (before or after school or summer program) qualifies for BTC funding.

The Summer Scholarship in Field Botany, funded by the Garden Club of America, aims to support undergraduate and master's students pursuing field studies in the Western Hemisphere. Established in 2000, this scholarship provides students with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and knowledge beyond traditional academic settings. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled in U.S.-based institutions. This initiative fosters a deeper understanding of botany and encourages conservation efforts.

The URA-Sandia Graduate Student Summer Fellowship for Summer 2026 is now open for applications until November 30, 2025. This fellowship offers STEM research opportunities at Sandia National Laboratories, focusing on national security projects. Selected candidates will work alongside experienced mentors and receive stipends based on their academic progress. A total of $2,000 is also available for travel expenses. Full-time graduate students and U.S. citizens are eligible to apply.

Special Education Teacher (SPED) Pathway Program

The Minnesota Department of Education has funding available under Minnesota Statutes 2025, section 122A.77, for grants under the Special Education Teacher (SPED) Pathway Program to develop trained and licensed Tier 3 or Tier 4 special education teachers.

Grant recipients must prioritize using grant funds to support participants who are employed by the grant recipient (or any joint applicants) as Tier 1 or Tier 2 licensed special education teachers. If funding is available, the funds may also be used to support other employees who wish to become special education teachers and who demonstrate a willingness to enter the field after completing the program.

Funding

This grant opportunity estimates $9,825,000 available to fund 10-20 grants under Minnesota Statutes 2025, section 122A.77. Most grants will not exceed $750,000 per grant request; however, there is no maximum grant award.

For larger applicants (including joint applicants), funding needs may exceed the suggested $750,000 maximum amount. For smaller applicants (less than 1,000 students) funding needs are generally under less than $250,000.

The Kia Pet Adoption Grant, funded by the Petfinder Foundation as part of the Accelerate the Good program, supports organizations in the US, Canada, and Mexico with free or reduced-fee adoptions for dogs and cats. Grants are awarded monthly based on the number of adoptable pets listed on Petfinder.com until funds are depleted or November 1st. Grantees are required to report adoptions and share stories of pets adopted through this initiative.

The Molly Spooner Bursary, established in memory of the renowned marine biologist Dr. Molly Spooner, offers a unique opportunity for university-level undergraduates to gain hands-on experience in marine biological research. Awarded annually for approximately 10 weeks, this bursary allows students to work with MBA Research Fellows during the summer. Supported by Dr. Spooner's family, the initiative encourages aspiring researchers to engage in vital environmental studies and promotes a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems.

The John O. Behrens Institute for Land Information Memorial Scholarship aims to support undergraduate students pursuing education in geospatial science or land information systems. Awarded by the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS), it provides a $3,000 grant and a one-year student membership in ASPRS. This scholarship honors Mr. Behrens' significant contributions to the field, encouraging students to excel in a profession that enhances the value of geospatial disciplines.

The Harvard Forest Summer Research Program in Ecology offers an immersive 11-week research experience for undergraduate students, providing mentorship and hands-on learning in ecological research. Participants receive a stipend of $7,700, along with full room and board. Located in Petersham, Massachusetts, the program emphasizes collaboration, skill-building, and community engagement, welcoming students who are legally authorized to work in the U.S. This opportunity fosters a deep connection between students and the scientific community.

Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation

Our mission is to empower our donors, affiliates and charitable partners through education, stewardship and regional collaboration, to create thriving communities and impact present and future generations.

Sheridan County Arts & Culture Fund

This endowed fund supports arts and culture-related projects and organizations throughout Sheridan County. It was created in 2022 to encourage creativity and cultural enrichment in the region

The Delta Dental of Arkansas Foundation's Strategic Initiative Grants aim to enhance oral health equity for underserved populations in Arkansas. By funding innovative projects, the foundation seeks to empower communities, improve access to dental care, and promote systemic change. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and charitable organizations focused on addressing oral health disparities. The grants encourage collaborative efforts that demonstrate financial stability and a clear project plan, supporting initiatives that can be replicated for broader impact.

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties

The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc., strengthens our communities by leading philanthropy and solutions through our direct work in partnership with donors, nonprofits and the community. Our 501(c)3 nonprofit Foundation is the foremost resource for convening partners to elevate people, improve lives and make our community a better place to live.

Grants & Scholarships

Grants power our nonprofit partners on the frontlines of pressing local issues, filling the opportunity gaps through direct-to-people programming.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors. 

The Community Foundation offers both need and merit based scholarships.

Adele Wells Meyer Memorial Scholarship Fund

Scholarship Eligibility

• Graduating high school senior attending a Palm Beach County public or private high school
• Must be a resident of Palm Beach County
• Demonstrate financial need
• Students overall performance reflecting a B or C average

The Highway Safety Grant in Alaska is designed to enhance traffic safety across various priority areas including impaired driving, police traffic services, and roadway safety. Managed by the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, this grant encourages local agencies to match at least 20% of project costs, promoting sustainability and project continuation. Applications must be submitted by the specified deadline to be considered for funding.

Each year, Innovia awards over $400,000 in scholarships to deserving students like you who are college-bound or pursuing vocational or technical training. Single scholarship awards range between $500 and $4,000.

Dr. Mark Paxton Dental Scholarship

Applicants must pursue a career in the field of dentistry limited to dental hygiene, dental assisting, or dental lab technician and be a resident in one of the following counties: Spokane, Lincoln, Adams, Whitman, Pend Oreille, Stevens or Ferry. Applicants must demonstrate financial need.

The scholarship committee will consider the applicant’s experience participating in school or community activities and job or volunteer activities, as well as his or her commitment to academic excellence. Previous recipients of this award are eligible to reapply.

The Lewis Penny Medal, awarded by the Quaternary Research Association, recognizes a promising young researcher under 35 who has significantly contributed to Quaternary stratigraphy in the British Isles. Eligible candidates must be QRA members for at least three years and can receive support for travel and accommodation. Nominations should come from a department head or a qualified QRA member familiar with the candidate's work, highlighting their achievements in lithostratigraphy and related fields.

The South Carolina Farm Bureau Foundation offers scholarships to students pursuing degrees in agriculture or related fields. Awarded based on character, leadership, and dedication, these scholarships support rising college sophomores, juniors, and seniors from farm families or farm-oriented backgrounds. The selection process is managed by the Foundation's Scholarship Committee, ensuring alignment with established guidelines. This initiative aims to foster future leaders in agriculture and enhance educational opportunities in this vital sector.

Each year, Innovia awards over $400,000 in scholarships to deserving students like you who are college-bound or pursuing vocational or technical training. Single scholarship awards range between $500 and $4,000.

East Spokane Kiwanis Scholarship

Applicants must be graduating seniors from West Valley, Central Valley, or East Valley School Districts. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and academic achievement.

Community involvement is also considered. 

The ASPB Innovation Prize for Agricultural Technology honors industry scientists who successfully translate research into practical agricultural advancements. Established in 2015, this biennial award not only recognizes outstanding contributions but also promotes awareness of high-quality scientific work within the industry. Recipients receive a monetary reward and a one-year membership in the American Society of Plant Biologists, highlighting the career opportunities available in this vital field.

The NIH Director's Transformative Research Award encourages innovative research that challenges conventional ideas. This award supports bold scientists and teams aiming to create groundbreaking technologies and new clinical approaches, ultimately transforming scientific paradigms. As part of the NIH Common Fund's High-Risk, High-Reward Research Program, it seeks to fund high-impact projects that have the potential to significantly advance science and technology.

Each year, Innovia awards over $400,000 in scholarships to deserving students like you who are college-bound or pursuing vocational or technical training. Single scholarship awards range between $500 and $4,000.

Idaho Panhandle Dental Society Memorial Scholarship

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.

The NIH Director's Pioneer Award (DP1) encourages innovative research by funding exceptional scientists. This award is designed for groundbreaking projects that diverge from the investigator's current work and address significant scientific challenges relevant to the NIH mission. Applications are invited across all NIH-relevant fields, promoting high-risk, high-reward research that could transform our understanding of critical scientific areas.

The Flick Emergency Medical Fund, established by Kevin and Mindy Flick, provides financial relief for families facing medical emergencies or crises. Grants assist with medical, living, and utility expenses, promoting support from faith-based organizations. Priority is given to Monroe County applicants from the Evangelical Community Church and families with dependent children. This initiative reflects the impact of community support during difficult times, helping individuals regain stability and quality of life.