Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The 2025-2026 Perkins V grant aims to enhance career and technical education (CTE) for secondary students by developing their academic and employability skills. It focuses on integrating rigorous academic and technical instruction, increasing flexibility in service provision, and building partnerships among educational institutions and industries. Additionally, the program seeks to support underrepresented populations, ensuring they gain the necessary skills for competitive employment in high-demand fields.

Anacostia River Watershed Trash Trap Maintenance RFA

DOEE seeks eligible entities to propose ways to monitor and maintain trash traps, provide environmental workforce development, and educate District residents about pollution that impairs the District’s waterbodies. A successful applicant will propose ways to design and implement a trash trap maintenance program for eight (8) trash traps in the Anacostia Watershed for one (1) year: to collect the trash; to collect data on the amount and types of trash being captured; to recruit, train, and employ District residents to assist; and to coordinate opportunities for volunteers to assist with maintenance and learn about the need for trash reduction in District waters and watersheds The amount available for the 12-month project is $160,000.

The Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on ending hunger and reducing food waste. Since its inception, the foundation has allocated over $59 million to enhance food security through innovative programs and community engagement. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits addressing critical needs such as food access, nutrition education, and support for vulnerable populations. This initiative aims to create equitable food systems and ensure that no one goes hungry.

The Biscayne Bay Water Quality Improvement Grant aims to enhance water quality in Biscayne Bay by funding projects submitted by local governments and nonstate entities. Eligible projects may include wastewater improvements, stormwater management, and other initiatives that contribute to the bay's ecological health. This grant is an opportunity for universities and nonprofit organizations to engage in meaningful environmental efforts.

The Abandoned Mine Drainage Abatement and Treatment Program (AMDATP) is funded by the Marcellus Legacy Fund as established by Act 13 of 2012. This program aims to address the critical issue of Abandoned Mine Drainage (AMD), which significantly impairs over 5,500 miles of Pennsylvania's streams. Eligible projects can receive grants up to $1,000,000, requiring at least a 15% match, focusing on remediation, maintenance, and monitoring of AMD sites.

Fargo-Moorhead Area Foundation

The FM Area Foundation is a nonprofit community foundation created by and for the people of Cass County, North Dakota, and Clay County, Minnesota. The FM Area Foundation helps people give back to the causes they care about and ensures the community’s needs are addressed now and in the future. Working in partnership with individuals, families, businesses, and professional advisors, the FM Area Foundation manages more than 500 charitable funds and provides grants to qualified nonprofit organizations and causes.

Elmer & Kaya Berg Grant Round

The Elmer & Kaya Berg Grant Round honors a legacy of generosity rooted in supporting basic human needs, education, and health and wellness. Through the Elmer & Kaya Berg Giving Fund at the FM Area Foundation, this grant round continues their commitment by investing in organizations working in the areas they cared about most.

Guidelines

Nonprofit organizations are invited to apply for funding to support meaningful programs and projects in our community. Organizations may submit one application per calendar year and will be asked to choose a single focus area: Basic Human Needs, Education, Health & Wellness, or Suicide Education & Prevention. Funding is intended for specific, existing programs or projects rather than general operating support. If you’re unsure which focus area is the best fit, we encourage you to reach out before applying.

The CCAMLR Scientific Scholarship Scheme, established in 2010, aims to support early career scientists from all CCAMLR Members in engaging with the Scientific Committee's work. Scholarships of up to A$30,000 are available for participation in workshops and meetings over two years. The scheme prioritizes applicants who have not previously participated in CCAMLR activities and are actively contributing to key scientific areas, including krill dynamics and spatial management strategies.

May Family Foundation

Eleanor Jean May established the May Family Foundation in 2000, as a gesture of gratitude to the communities that shaped her life. The May Family Foundation is dedicated to identifying programs that strongly resonate with our mission and values as we work together to empower and uplift lives within our communities.

Our foundation provides resources and opportunities that empower young individuals to thrive and reach their full potential. Our goal is to create a brighter future for under-resourced youth in our local communities.

May Family Foundation Mental Health & Counseling Grant

Our foundation strives to be engaged in our local communities beyond grant funding. We support select programs that align with our goals and form a connection through potential volunteering opportunities, site visits, and recognition of successes.

We welcome grant applications for financial support in mental health and counseling:

• Programs and services that improve life for those with physical and mental challenges.
• We support programs that help students deal with a mental health diagnosis and life stressors, to help navigate the changes that occur during early childhood development through college.

The RE/MAX Equity Group Foundation Grant aims to support small, local, and grassroots charitable organizations in the Portland metro and SW Washington areas. With contributions ranging from $500 to $2,500, the foundation focuses on tangible needs such as food, clothing, and medical services. Priority is given to organizations that support children and families, demonstrating low operating expenses and direct community engagement to maximize impact.

The Transportation Infrastructure Investment Fund (TIIF) Grant in Delaware supports infrastructure improvements that assist new or expanding businesses. Eligible projects include site entrance work, traffic signals, and public transportation enhancements. Funding is provided as reimbursement for completed work, requiring a Reimbursement Request Form. Applicants must be licensed entities with public endorsement, creating jobs and providing public benefit. Ineligible costs include residential projects and work on private properties. This initiative fosters economic growth and infrastructure development.

The Tim Healey Memorial Scholarship, established by the Future Farm Industries Cooperative Research Centre, honors Dr. Tim Healey's contributions to Australian agriculture. It supports research in areas such as pastures, livestock management, and agronomy, aiming to enhance farming systems. Eligible candidates must hold a base scholarship and be enrolled in a full-time Higher Degree by Research at an Australian university. Preference is given to projects promoting sustainability and resource management.

The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority Grant Program offers low-interest loans and grants for improvements in drinking water, storm water, and sewage treatment facilities. Eligible entities include municipalities, authorities, and private operators. Total project assistance can reach up to $11 million, or $20 million for multi-municipality projects. Applicants must consult with a PENNVEST Regional Project Specialist prior to submission. This program aims to enhance water management and pollution prevention practices across the state.

The Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Grant Program, established in 2018, provides funding for parks, trails, and conservation efforts across Georgia. Administered by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the program supports projects that protect wildlife and natural resources. Eligible applicants include local governments and conservation-focused organizations. This initiative, backed by strong voter support, aims to enhance outdoor recreation and safeguard critical lands for future generations.

The Butler Foundation Charity Grant aims to alleviate poverty in Northern Kentucky by funding programs that emphasize individual dignity, employment, self-sufficiency, and education. With over $1.9 million invested in 2024 alone, the Foundation seeks to create long-term, positive outcomes through catalytic and impactful grants. Priorities include support for local charities addressing basic needs such as shelter, food, and education. The Foundation encourages collaborative efforts and challenge grants to maximize community resources.

The Monitoring Grants by the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) focus on improving watershed conditions through data collection and analysis. Eligible projects include monitoring trends in watershed health, evaluating restoration efforts, and conducting rapid bio-assessments. Applicants must be legal entities such as local governments or non-profits. This initiative aims to ensure informed decision-making for environmental management and restoration, fostering sustainable practices and habitat improvement.

To promote its mission of protecting Mississippi’s environment, the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) offers assistance grants for projects involving certain solid waste management and recycling activities and provides other assistance for abatement of certain solid waste problems. The Solid Waste Policy, Planning, & Grants Branch administers several solid waste assistance programs that provide grant funding to support a variety of solid waste management activities. These programs include the following:

• The local governments solid waste assistance grants program
• The local governments waste tire collection and clean up grants program
• The waste tire incentive recycling and research grants program
• The solid waste planning grants program

Each county in Mississippi may apply for a solid waste assistance grant amount allocated by Stateaid Road Mileage formula.

The Cheerful Giver Scholarship, provided by the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge, offers over $300,000 in financial support to students in the Greater Augusta County area pursuing health care-related education. This need-based scholarship is open to high school seniors, current college students, and adult learners, with a preference for those entering the nursing profession. The foundation aims to enhance community well-being through educational opportunities.

The FACF: Ice Mountain Environmental Stewardship Fund, established in 2002 by Great Spring Waters of America, Inc., aims to sustain the Muskegon River Watershed through conservation and restoration projects. Grants of up to $50,000 are available for initiatives that enhance water quality, reverse degradation, and foster collaboration among organizations. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, government units, and educational institutions focused on benefiting the watershed and its communities.

The Dairy Digester Research and Development Program (DDRDP) by the California Department of Food and Agriculture provides competitive grants to dairy operations in California for implementing digesters that significantly reduce methane emissions. With a budget of $48 million from the 2022 Budget Act, the program supports environmentally sustainable practices. Eligible participants include existing milk producers and dairy digester developers located in California, ensuring that funds are directed to improve local environmental conditions.

The DARRP Restoration Implementation Grants aim to enhance marine and coastal habitat restoration through collaboration between NOAA and non-federal partners. These grants address oil spills and hazardous substance releases by supporting restoration activities authorized under various environmental laws. Eligible applicants will implement projects that promote sustainable fisheries, recover endangered species, and boost local economies. Through careful planning and evaluation, recipients will contribute to effective restoration strategies that align with NOAA's mission and the needs of coastal communities.

The Banner-ASU Neuroscience Scholars Program offers a unique eight-week training opportunity for top undergraduate and graduate students in science and social science. Participants engage in hands-on research alongside leading scientists in the Greater Phoenix area, focusing on neurodegenerative diseases. The program includes mentorship, educational seminars, and a stipend of $4,000 upon completion. Scholars present their findings at a formal symposium, enhancing their professional skills and academic credentials.

The Wyoming Nonpoint Source Program, part of the WDEQ's Watershed Protection Program, aims to preserve and restore water quality through voluntary pollution reduction projects. Funded by the Section 319 grant, it allocates nearly $1 million annually to support local entities in implementing effective nonpoint source pollution solutions. These initiatives are prioritized based on water quality needs identified by the WDEQ, fostering collaboration among landowners, groups, and government agencies to enhance watershed health.

Mississippi Maternal Health Project

The Women’s Foundation of Mississippi is now accepting grant proposals for the Mississippi Maternal Health Project. We are seeking community-based, equity-centered strategies from nonprofit organizations that have a proven track record in maternal and infant health. These organizations will lead interventions in East Biloxi, Jackson, and Sunflower County, Mississippi. 

Funding Opportunity

WFM intends to award grants ranging from $75,000 to $100,000 each year for projects that will operate over three years. This request for proposals is open to nonprofit organizations located in Mississippi that provide services in East Biloxi, Jackson, and Sunflower County, Mississippi.

Submission Requirements

The Mississippi Maternal Health Project’s goal is to improve maternal and infant health by reducing maternal mortality, infant mortality, and preterm births through expanded access to comprehensive maternal health services and early interventions. 

We are prioritizing projects that clearly demonstrate measurable outcomes in maternal and infant health. These projects should be deeply rooted in the three service areas and trusted by women and families. We aim to serve populations with the greatest racial and geographic disparities. Additionally, we are committed to learning, data collection, and continuous improvement to inform statewide system changes. 

Proposals must address at least one or two of the following outcomes during the three-year grant cycle for consideration: 

• Expanded equitable access to quality care for 1,500 low-income and at-risk women, with at least 75% enrolled in health or support services during the first trimester. 
• Enhanced local capacity with 150 trained providers and sustained collaboration networks among healthcare and community partners. 
• Embed community voice and data-driven learning into statewide systems, culminating in a maternal health sustainability policy plan by 2028

The OVW Fiscal Year 2026 Training and Services to End Violence and Abuse Against Individuals with Disabilities and Deaf People Program aims to empower states, local and Tribal governments, and nonprofit organizations to provide crucial training and resources. This initiative focuses on addressing domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault, and caregiver abuse against individuals with disabilities and Deaf individuals, enhancing direct services and support for these vulnerable populations.

The Governor's Industry Vocations Scholarship (NJ-GIVS) supports women and minority students pursuing certificates or degrees in construction-related fields. Funded by the Schools Development Authority and administered by HESAA, this scholarship can cover up to $2,000 per year or the full cost of tuition, minus any other financial aid. It is renewable for one year, contingent on future funding availability, and awards are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Sapphire Awards, organized by the Florida Blue Foundation, celebrate exemplary programs, organizations, and individuals who have made significant contributions to community health since 2005. With awards totaling up to $525,000, this program recognizes transformative partnerships, innovative solutions, and measurable impacts on health outcomes. Nominees must be Florida-based and demonstrate a commitment to addressing health disparities and promoting overall well-being, aligning with the Foundation's priorities of improving health, food security, and mental health.