Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

Brown County Community Foundation

BCCF operates as a 501 (c)(3) corporation. It professionally manages and distributes income from charitable bequests consistent with the donor’s wishes and interests. In other words, BCCF manages charitable funds, making grants to local, nonprofit organizations based on advice from donors. Donors can specify a specific organization or a general area of concern within the community to which their gift be directed.

Scholarships

The Foundation manages several academic scholarship funds, many established expressly for Brown County High School graduates. 

Additionally, through the Foundation’s affiliation with The Lilly Endowment Inc., over forty Brown County residents have received four-year full-tuition scholarships through the Endowment’s Community Scholars Program.

BCCF Scholarships are available to current high school graduates, students currently enrolled in college, past graduates planning to enroll, as well as G.E.D. graduates.

Shaffer Family Scholarship

Purpose

To provide educational scholarships for students who are accepted into and attending accredited two or four year public or private intuitions of higher learning.

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. 

Champion Credit Union A. Roland Leatherwood Memorial Scholarship

At Champion Credit Union, education and financial wellness are at the core of our mission. We are proud to award multiple scholarships each year to assist high school seniors within our field of membership who want to further their education by attending a community college or university.

We have partnered with the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation to offer a simple application process with an easy-to-manage portal for the scholarship applications. An applicant who does not receive a scholarship award from Champion Credit Union is automatically entered in the scholarship pool to receive additional scholarship awards from the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation.  

Brown County Community Foundation

BCCF operates as a 501 (c)(3) corporation. It professionally manages and distributes income from charitable bequests consistent with the donor’s wishes and interests. In other words, BCCF manages charitable funds, making grants to local, nonprofit organizations based on advice from donors. Donors can specify a specific organization or a general area of concern within the community to which their gift be directed.

Scholarships

The Foundation manages several academic scholarship funds, many established expressly for Brown County High School graduates. 

Additionally, through the Foundation’s affiliation with The Lilly Endowment Inc., over forty Brown County residents have received four-year full-tuition scholarships through the Endowment’s Community Scholars Program.

BCCF Scholarships are available to current high school graduates, students currently enrolled in college, past graduates planning to enroll, as well as G.E.D. graduates.

P.E.O Chapter CU Scholarship

Purpose

To provide a scholarship to a female Brown County resident who is graduating from high school or completing a G.E.D. and will be attending an accredited post-secondary educational institution in the U.S. or Canada, full-time or part-time, in the fall of the academic year following high school graduation.

Awards winners are chosen by P.E.O using the application process.

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. 

Coastal Credit Union Scholarship Fund

Investing in education is one of the most powerful ways to build a brighter future—but for many students, the rising cost of college can be a major barrier. In fact, U.S. News & World Report notes that tuition has steadily increased over the past two decades, often outpacing inflation. That’s why credit unions across the Carolinas are proud to support students through meaningful financial assistance.

About the Scholarship

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation Scholarship Fund is designed to ease the financial burden of higher education for students who are members of credit unions in North or South Carolina. This fund supports scholarships for several credit unions in the region, including Coastal, helping students pursue their academic and career goals with less financial stress.

Whether you're heading to a four-year university, community college, or technical school, this scholarship could help cover tuition, books, or other education-related expenses. This scholarship program is more than just financial aid—it’s a reflection of the credit union philosophy of “people helping people.” By supporting students in our communities, we’re investing in future leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) Scholarships

The Community Foundation is home to a variety of scholarships designated to benefit a graduating senior from Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS). 

Achievement of Excellence Award (Central, West)

Available to a graduating senior who has distinguished him/herself through academic achievement, leadership, and proven skills in the adult roles of: Citizen, Healthy & Fit Individual, Family Life Member, Life-Long Learner, and Worker.

William and Eleanor Cleveland Scholarship

The scholarship provides assistance to dependent children of members of Columbus Division of Fire.

Award Amount:

• Minimum $1,000

Russell A. and Sophia Jean Hall Scholarship Fund

The Russell A. and Sophia “Jean” Hall scholarship was established in 2003. Feeling fortunate and grateful for their own education, Jean and Russell created this scholarship as a way to pay forward and support vulnerable students seeking an education. Recognizing the value in all avenues of education and the financial hardship it creates, these Ohio State graduates created the scholarship to support students pursuing a degree at a state-supported college, university, vocational, or technical school in the state of Ohio.

Award Amount:

• Up to $10,000 payable over four years at $2,500 per year; depending upon the needs of the student.

The Northeast Agricultural Education Foundation Grant supports educational and leadership initiatives focused on agriculture within the Northeastern United States. Established as a private foundation, it provides funding to 501(c)(3) organizations that promote agricultural leadership, enhance understanding of food production, and improve farmers' quality of life. The Foundation prioritizes programs that educate youth about agriculture and promote farm safety awareness. Grants are primarily directed towards statewide or larger projects that align with these objectives.

The Gaming Mitigation Grants support Massachusetts nonprofit and municipal performing arts centers impacted by resort-style casinos. These grants are designed to enhance the arts ecosystem, ensuring access to performances while boosting local economies. Eligible centers must primarily focus on the arts and commit significant resources to performing arts. Applications for FY26 are currently closed, with a reopening expected in FY27, providing organizations a chance to secure funding for touring shows and artist fees.

The Flexible Assistance for Survivors (FA) Pilot Grant Program in California aims to enhance safety, healing, and financial stability for victims of crime and their families. It provides direct cash assistance ranging from $1 to $700,000. Eligible applicants include businesses and nonprofits, with funding available statewide. This initiative is designed to support those affected by crime, helping them regain stability and rebuild their lives.

The Teacher Preparation initiative aims to significantly enhance the diversity and certification rates of K-12 teachers in Philadelphia by 2035. With a focus on reflecting the racial and ethnic makeup of the student population, the program seeks to combat the declining and non-diverse teacher pipeline. Strategies include improving teacher preparation programs, mentorship opportunities, and increasing recruitment efforts. By tracking teacher certifications and classroom diversity, this initiative aims to bolster student success and engagement in Philadelphia's schools.

The State Agency Traffic Safety Grant in Massachusetts provides up to $6.5 million in funding for state government agencies to enhance road safety. This grant, administered by the Office of Grants and Research, focuses on critical areas such as impaired driving, child passenger safety, and distracted driving. By targeting these priority areas, the program aims to significantly reduce traffic crashes and improve overall safety on Massachusetts roadways.

The Underserved Communities Traffic Safety Grant Program in Massachusetts aims to enhance road safety for vulnerable populations. It supports projects utilizing crash data to identify community needs and implement educational initiatives aimed at reducing fatalities and serious injuries. Partnerships with local organizations are encouraged to foster a comprehensive approach to traffic safety. Key focus areas include impaired driving, pedestrian safety, and seat belt usage. The program aspires to achieve zero fatalities on the roads.

Red Oak Community School Scholarship

The scholarship program is designed for students who are enrolled at Red Oak Community School (ROCS), a tuition-based elementary school serving K-5 students across central Ohio. The scholarship program was created by and for the families who make up the ROCS community. It is funded through various independent, community-led fundraising efforts throughout the school year and is meant to lower financial hurdles to enrollment. 

Example Awards: 

• Five-day program students: $1,000
• Three-day program students: $600
• Two-day program students: $400

The Apprenticeship Innovation Funding (AIF) in California supports innovative apprenticeship programs. Established in 2022, it allocates $95 million over three years to sustain and scale these initiatives. With $3500 per active apprentice per year and a $1000 completion bonus, the AIF aims to enhance training opportunities. The funding rounds have awarded $17.3 million and $24.8 million, with an additional $52 million available for FY 2024-2025 to build on previous successes.

The Regina B. Frankenberg Foundation Grant focuses on animal welfare, particularly in New York City and neighboring areas. It supports organizations that protect endangered species and reduce the homelessness of companion animals through various programs. Starting in 2025, the foundation will implement a closed application process for conservation grants, inviting only previous grantees with qualifying projects to apply. The foundation prioritizes public charities with operating budgets of $250,000 or more.

The LA County Arts Internship Program, established in 2000, provides college students with valuable opportunities in the arts sector. By fostering a diverse range of participants, the program enhances students' understanding of nonprofit arts administration and the creative economy. Interns gain essential skills while contributing to the cultural landscape of LA County. Supported by the Getty Foundation, this initiative prepares students for meaningful careers in the arts and public engagement.

The Tipgoomoogus Memorial Trust Grant supports organizations dedicated to the care and comfort of small household pets, including dogs, cats, and birds. Founded by Thomas and Ellen Fallon, the trust primarily funds New Jersey-based charities that qualify as 501(c)(3) organizations. Applications are accepted year-round, with a submission deadline of April 30 for annual review. The foundation prefers to assist animal shelters and dog pounds, while excluding funding for salaries or animals raised for commercial or research purposes.

National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) CMH

This scholarship was established to assist dependents of an active member of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, Columbus, Ohio Chapter.

Award Amount:

• $1,500

The SCF Women's Fund Grants aim to empower women and girls in the Beloit and Stateline area by addressing critical needs through innovative funding solutions. Focus areas include health, safety, economic opportunity, and leadership development. Grants range from $1,000 to $5,000, supporting initiatives that promote gender and racial equity. The foundation emphasizes collaboration with local service providers to ensure effective implementation and measurable outcomes, fostering a supportive community environment for all women and girls.

The Community Engaged Project Grants (CEPG) support innovative arts and culture initiatives that actively involve the public in Rhode Island. These artist-led projects encourage participation from all community members, including new and non-artists, fostering engagement through diverse artistic disciplines. By connecting with the community, funded projects aim to enhance the cultural landscape and provide meaningful experiences that resonate with both small and large audiences.

The Keystone Historic Preservation Construction Grants provide funding for construction activities aimed at rehabilitating, restoring, or preserving historic resources listed or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. This program, supported by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, is available to nonprofit organizations and local governments for small projects that enhance publicly accessible historic properties. Grant awards range from $5,000 to $100,000, requiring a 50/50 cash match.

The Range Resources Good Neighbors Fund Grants support nonprofit organizations providing emergency management services in their core operating area. Eligible projects include new or existing programs, with funding requests capped at $10,000. Organizations such as fire and police departments are encouraged to apply, ensuring vital community services are enhanced and supported through this initiative.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

KCI Rotary Scholarship

This fund was established by the KCI Rotary Educational Foundation to provide academic scholarships to graduating seniors of high schools located in Platte County.

Scholarships will be awarded on an annual basis and disbursed in equal payments in August and January.

Minimum of $1,000 annually to be paid in the fall semester for up to four consecutive years (students must submit grades to GKCCF).

The Tompkins Scholarship Endowment supports graduates from Traverse City Area Public Schools, emphasizing academic achievement over financial need. Established by the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, this scholarship aims to foster educational opportunities for local students attending public, in-state colleges or universities. The foundation, active since 1992, works to enhance the community by providing significant, potentially renewable scholarships, reflecting its commitment to positive change across the Grand Traverse region.

Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation began in 1992 when a group of community champions came together around a vision to give back to our region then, now, and forever.

This vision lives on within our organization today as we support the people and places of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Together with our partners, we spark positive change for a variety of local causes, including youth, arts and culture, education, environment, and health and human services, across our region.

Regional Scholarships

We believe that post-secondary education is key to healthy, resilient, and thriving communities and are pleased to partner with generous community donors to create and offer a variety of scholarship opportunities for local students across the region.

Traverse City Tourism Hospitality Scholarship Fund (Benzie and Grand Traverse Counties)

Available to graduating high school seniors from Benzie or Grand Traverse Counties, or current NMC students pursuing degrees, industry certifications, or careers in hospitality or tourism-related studies. Preference given to those who are active in school and extracurricular activities, who have demonstrated community responsibility through volunteer efforts, and who have held jobs in the hospitality industry and are excited to continue. Financial need will be considered.

The North Carolina Dental Society Foundation is launching its Endowment Grant Program to support oral health initiatives across North Carolina. Up to four qualifying nonprofit organizations will receive $5,000 each to enhance dental care accessibility and improve health outcomes for both children and adults. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofits and government agencies dedicated to fostering oral health education and services.