Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Cheryl Wojtas Memorial Scholarship Program honors Cheryl Wojtas's commitment to education by offering scholarships to deserving graduates from Port Huron Area Schools and Gaylord Community Schools. Each recipient will receive a one-time award for their freshman year at a nonprofit post-secondary institution, aimed at supporting their educational journey. Financial need is a key consideration, and funds will cover tuition, fees, and essential expenses related to their studies.

The Detroit Economic Club Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to students from Detroit and surrounding counties pursuing undergraduate education. Each year, two renewable scholarships of $2,000 are awarded to incoming college freshmen. Recipients can reapply for up to three additional years. The program is supported by the Detroit Economic Club Education Endowment Fund, dedicated to helping local students achieve their educational goals. For more information, visit the FAQs on the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan's website.

The Top State for Talent Grant: High Demand Career Equipment, offered by the Georgia Department of Education, aims to enhance Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs. With a focus on providing essential capital equipment for high-demand career pathways, this grant supports local CTAE Directors in their efforts to prepare students for successful futures. By ensuring our students have access to modern resources, we are committed to improving educational outcomes and workforce readiness in Georgia.

The WMU College of Arts and Sciences offers the Accelerated Graduate Degree Program (AGDP) Fellowship Grant to support graduate students enrolled in AGDP programs. This one-year fellowship includes a full-time teaching assistantship, providing financial assistance through a stipend and tuition support. Students must be nominated, maintain good academic standing, and be eligible for a teaching assistantship during their fellowship year. This initiative aims to encourage enrollment in CAS AGDP programs.

About US

Vision Statement

To be the partner and trusted resource for philanthropy in our community, providing stewardship of charitable intent so the impact of generosity will last for generations.

Mission Statement

• To build enduring charitable resources used to positively impact our community by:
• Serving as a partner and resource for donors, their advisors, and area nonprofits.
• Making it simple for donors to fulfill their individual goals in giving back.
• Providing stewardship of donor gifts and charitable intent for generations to come.
• Fulfilling a leadership role on important community issues.

Through the generosity of our donors, the Community Foundation of Southern Indiana awards scholarships each year to help students across our region pursue their educational goals.

Our scholarship program includes dozens of funds established by individuals and families who believe in the power of education. These funds support students from diverse backgrounds as they work toward higher education and brighter futures. As we grow this program, we remain committed to expanding renewable, impactful scholarship opportunities – fostering success, enriching lives, and strengthening our community through learning.

Raymond Rhodes Memorial Scholarship for Printing Technology & Graphic Arts

This fund hopes to award a non-renewable scholarship of up to $2,000 for a student who will seek a full-time, post-secondary education pursuing a career in the graphic arts or printing technology.

The Leeway Foundation's Community Care Fund (CCF) offers financial aid up to $1,250 for women and trans artists facing urgent needs. Established during the COVID-19 pandemic, the fund addresses critical requirements like housing and utilities, ensuring support for marginalized artists. With over $679,000 distributed in recent years, the CCF continues to serve eligible applicants in 2025, emphasizing the importance of emergency funding in the arts community.

The John A. Kilpatrick Memorial Scholarship, established in 2016 by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, supports qualified recipients pursuing post-secondary education. This scholarship is specifically for current or former members of the U.S. Marine Corps who have been stationed at Parris Island, SC, with a preference for applicants who have lived in New Jersey. The foundation has dedicated over $125 million to enhance the Lowcountry community since its inception.

About MN AWWA

The Minnesota Section American Water Works Association (MN AWWA) is a Section of the American Water Works Association (AWWA), the world's largest association of water professionals.

MN AWWA is a nonprofit scientific and educational association public health, safety, and welfare through research and dissemination of information and by supporting educational development of its members.

One AWWA Operator Scholarship

AWWA’s The Water Equation Campaign and the Minnesota Section of AWWA awards the One AWWA Operator Scholarship in the amount of $1,000 for water operator training and education. Up to two (2) scholarships will be awarded each calendar year.

Disbursement of the funds will be made directly by the Section to the financial office of recipient’s college, university, or technical school. Items related to books, manuals, conferences, professional development courses, and other eligible expenses will be reimbursed to recipient upon presentation of eligible receipts. Acceptance of scholarship constitutes permission to use recipient’s name and scholarship story for purpose of promotion.

LeRoy T. Walker

LeRoy T. Walker (June 14, 1918 – April 23, 2012) was an icon. A noted author, professor, coach, and administrator in the disciplines of physical education and athletics, he was a barrier-breaking and remarkable human being who was dedicated to promoting and uplifting young people.

Walker was Chancellor Emeritus of North Carolina Central University (NCCU) in Durham, NC. He was elected President of the Athletics Congress (now USA Track & Field), the national governing body of USA Track & Field. Walker was elected President Emeritus of the United States' Olympic Committee (the first and only American to hold this position) and was a former president of AAHPERD (from 1977-1978, also the first African American to be elected to this position). Walker was inducted as a member into 17 Halls of Fame, awarded 16 Honorary Doctorates from a variety of institutions, and received numerous awards, including the Luther H. Gulick Award (1982), SHAPE America's highest honor.

The LeRoy T. Walker Young Professional Award

The LeRoy T. Walker Young Professional Award is given to a minority member of SHAPE America who is 36 years old or younger who has demonstrated superior promise in the areas of service, teaching, scholarship and commitment to the goals of SHAPE America focusing specifically on under-represented and/or underserved populations and promotion of diversity and inclusiveness. Not more than one LeRoy Walker Young Professional award shall be given annually.

The RPAC Fundraising Grants, offered by the National Association of Realtors, support state and local associations in organizing fundraising events aimed at boosting RPAC contributions. These grants require a fundraising goal three times the amount requested, ensuring tangible results. The initiative emphasizes developing detailed fundraising plans that comply with state laws regarding corporate treasury funds. This program is vital for enhancing RPAC participation and advancing property ownership advocacy.

The Beaufort Jasper Water & Sewer Authority Scholarship, established in 2024, offers financial support to students from Beaufort and Jasper Counties, South Carolina. This scholarship is both merit-based and need-based, aiming to assist deserving students in pursuing their post-secondary education. Funded by the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, it reflects a commitment to fostering educational opportunities in the region.

The KCF Emergency Scholarship Fund provides financial support to Kalamazoo County residents pursuing post-secondary education. Established in 2021, this fund addresses unexpected tuition or book expenses that may hinder students from completing their education. Eligible applicants can use the funds for various costs, including tuition, course materials, and testing fees. The application process is ongoing, with awards issued on a rolling basis until funds are depleted.

The Dr. Glenn Neil Love Medical Scholarship, established in 2014, provides annual financial assistance to individuals pursuing medical training and education. It aims to support nontraditional applicants currently employed in healthcare who demonstrate financial need and a commitment to advancing their skills. Priority is given to those seeking additional certifications or training to enhance their expertise in the medical field.

The GECU Foundation Charitable Grant aims to enhance community welfare through charitable contributions and volunteerism. It focuses on vital issues such as education, health, and housing, supporting organizations that promote savings mobilization, employment, and diversity. The foundation evaluates requests quarterly, ensuring that contributions effectively address core community development challenges. By fostering inclusion and providing access to resources, the GECU Foundation strives to elevate the lives of individuals in its communities.

The Saints Arts Grants support theater, dance, music, and multi-disciplinary organizations in their artistic endeavors. Grants of up to $6,500 are available for projects taking place from June 1, 2025, to May 31, 2026. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations with at least three years of operation. Funded projects may include costumes, community outreach, and technical improvements, fostering diverse artistic expressions and community engagement.

The Community Identity and Heritage Grant, administered by the Minnesota Humanities Center, allocates $6,299,000 to support projects that celebrate and teach the diverse cultures of Minnesota. This funding opportunity is open to individuals and organizations, with grants up to $300,000 available. It aims to enhance cultural heritage work for historically underrepresented communities, including Indigenous groups and recent immigrants. All funds must be utilized for new initiatives, ensuring the continuation and growth of Minnesota's rich cultural landscape.

The CFGFW Emergency Grant Program provides crucial funding to Allen County nonprofits facing unexpected expenses that hinder their mission. These grants are designed to address urgent, unforeseen challenges, including community disasters like floods or tornadoes. The Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne is committed to supporting local organizations in overcoming financial hurdles, ensuring they can continue their vital work in the community. Emergency Grants may also cover reimbursements for expenses incurred within 14 days of an emergency.

The Kramer Barnard Memorial Grant, established by the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation, honors the memory of 12-year-old Kramer Barnard. This grant supports local nonprofit organizations in Archer, Clay, or Wichita County that focus on youth development and leadership, particularly in sports and outdoor activities. It aims to assist financially disadvantaged youth in participating in these programs, ensuring that Kramer's legacy continues to inspire and empower future generations.

The Mercyhealth Janesville Medical Staff Scholarship offers six $1,000 scholarships to graduating seniors from Janesville, Milton, Beloit, Whitewater, Edgerton, Walworth (Big Foot), Brodhead, Delavan, or Evansville. Applicants must be pursuing a career in health care. This initiative supports students in their educational journey while emphasizing the importance of health care professions. Mercyhealth is dedicated to providing quality medical services and fostering future healthcare leaders in the community.

The 2025-2026 Kickstart Kids Grant Program, provided by the Texas Education Agency, aims to support martial arts initiatives that foster character and life skills in middle and high school students. This program includes specific guidelines for funding, such as limiting direct administrative costs to 15% of the award and requiring detailed expenditure reporting. Eligible applicants are encouraged to adhere to the guidelines to ensure effective use of funds.

The Mercyhealth Harvard Medical Staff Scholarship offers two $1,000 awards for graduating seniors at Harvard High School pursuing healthcare careers. One scholarship is designated for a female and the other for a male recipient. Mercyhealth, a private organization, is dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare services through an integrated health system, ensuring that students are supported in their educational goals while contributing to a healthier community.

The Union Plus Scholarship, offered by the Union Plus Education Foundation, supports students from working families pursuing post-secondary education. Since its inception in 1991, over $5.6 million has been awarded to more than 4,000 beneficiaries. Scholarships range between $500 and $4,000 for studies starting in Fall 2025. Applicants must be current or retired union members, their spouses, or dependent children, ensuring access to higher education for diverse families across the U.S. and Canada.

The Cream City Foundation's Community Grants Program aims to uplift the LGBTQ+ community in Southeastern Wisconsin, focusing particularly on people of color and transgender individuals. By providing grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000, the program supports grassroots organizations dedicated to advancing equity, justice, and well-being. Since its inception in 1982, the Foundation has mobilized over $1.5 million to address economic, health, and safety needs, fostering inclusion and acceptance within the community.

The Wichita Wagonmasters Fund, established in 2012, enhances the quality of life in Wichita by supporting various projects through grants ranging from $250 to $1,000. This fund prioritizes initiatives that serve the community, avoid service duplication, and demonstrate measurable results. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits in good standing, showcasing fiscal responsibility and sustainability. The fund encourages creative solutions to community challenges, promoting collaboration among local organizations for a better Wichita.

The Maine Artist Fellowship in Media Arts recognizes outstanding artistic achievement among Maine artists. This merit-based award supports individual artists and collectives in disciplines such as film, video, animation, and podcasts. Recipients receive unrestricted funding to advance their careers and benefit from year-long promotion, networking opportunities, and a reception at the Blaine House. Eligible applicants must be Maine residents, at least 25 years old, and not currently enrolled in school, ensuring a focus on professional artists.

The Sells - Traylor Dixon Sells, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, established by the Coastal Bend Community Foundation, honors Traylor Dixon Sells, Jr.'s legacy. This $2,000 scholarship is available for students in the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi College of Business Graduate Program who maintain a minimum of six credits per semester and a 3.0 GPA. It is a tribute to Mr. Sells' significant contributions to the community and education.

The Maine Artist Fellowship for Traditional Arts honors exceptional Maine artists committed to preserving traditional art forms. This merit-based award supports artists by providing unrestricted funds, promotional opportunities, and networking events throughout the year. Selected fellows will showcase their work on the Maine Arts Commission website and participate in a reception with staff and commissioners. This fellowship aims to recognize and sustain vital cultural practices among Maine's artistic communities.