Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Indianapolis Foundation Library Fund supports literacy and information access projects for Marion County residents through competitive grants, media center enhancements, and professional development funds. Eligible libraries include the Indianapolis Public Library and local universities' libraries. The fund aims to foster innovative programming, such as bilingual story times and digitalization of archival collections, with the goal of enriching community engagement and educational resources.

The OVAC Creative Projects Grant, offered by the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition, supports Oklahoma artists aged 21 and above in creating visual art for public presentation. Grants of up to $1500 are awarded for new projects culminating in public events. Eligible applicants must not be current BFA or MFA students and should not have received OVAC funding in the past year. The evaluation focuses on the potential impact, quality, concept, and feasibility of the proposed work.

Bruce E. Hepke Memorial Scholarship

Mission Statement

The Bruce E. Hepke Memorial Scholarship was established in 2021 to commemorate the life of a very special husband, father, and friend.

Devoted husband to wife Sue, and father to sons Darren and Connor, Bruce was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2016. He fought the disease bravely, until tragically, it took its final toll on February 18, 2021. The support that Bruce received from his family during this period, as well as his own personal courage and perseverance to live life to its fullest, were exceptionally inspirational.

A true gentleman, in every sense of the word, this memorial scholarship will be awarded each year to a college-bound candidate that demonstrates the characteristics that made Bruce such a remarkable and outstanding person-

Perseverance, Integrity, Leadership and Sportsmanship.

About the Scholarship

An avid golfer his entire life, Bruce loved the mental and physical challenges of the sport, the camaraderie, the competition, and the pure fun in traveling and playing on different courses. In 1998 he joined the West Chester Golf and Country Club, where he found a wonderful group of people with whom to socialize and play golf. Bruce was a true “renaissance man” with an incredibly wide range of interests but playing golf and being an active member of his Club were at the top of his list. This scholarship is intended to reflect his love for both the sport and his Club. It will be awarded annually to a high school senior and will be chosen from a candidate pool that includes the West Chester Golf and Country Club’s Ambassador Golf program as well as six surrounding high schools that have special meaning to the Hepke family. (The six high schools are Great Valley, Malvern Preparatory School, Marple Newtown, West Chester Bayard Rustin, West Chester East and West Chester Henderson.)

Coast Guard Foundation

Founded in 1969, we’re a vital partner to the U.S. Coast Guard—tackling the toughest challenges confronting our heroes.

We’re there for members from enlistment to long after retirement, and our work strengthens the entire community. Through close collaboration with Coast Guard leadership, we’re able to respond to new and emerging needs effectively. Our investments support families, bolster unit morale, honor the Coast Guard’s mission at the national level, and more. Every day, Coast Guard members risk their lives to protect our country. When we stand together and show them our appreciation, we can ensure they remain always ready—no matter what.

Coast Guard Foundation Captain Ernest W. Fox Perpetual Scholarship

Brief Description

This application is intended for qualified active duty Coast Guard, civil service employee personnel or their dependents (child or spouse) at the CG Aviation Logistic Center (ALC)

The scholarship will be used for preparatory, collegiate, postgraduate, professional and vocational education, formal or informal training which develops the talents and potential of the beneficiary.

The Fox family established this annual Perpetual Scholarship to honor the memory of their late son/brother Captain Ernest W. Fox, and as a means of expressing their appreciation to the men and women who work at the CG Aviation Logistic Center (previously Aircraft Repair & Supply Center).

The MTDPHHS School Health Grants aim to enhance health education in Montana schools by providing funding for projects that support school nurses, counselors, and educators. Available funding opportunities include training for asthma and diabetes education, assessing health policies, and facilitating CPR training. These grants are designed to foster safe and healthy learning environments for students and staff, ultimately promoting better health outcomes across the state.

We administer a number of scholarships, which range from the traditional academic and athletic awards to corporate and special circumstances offerings. Applying for a scholarship is free, so we invite you to spend some time finding opportunities for which you are a good fit.

Karen Schlosser Memorial Scholarship

The purpose of the fund is to provide an annual scholarship to a Marshall County resident attending Purdue University. 

The Karen Schlosser Memorial Scholarship is not renewable to previous recipients. 

We administer a number of scholarships, which range from the traditional academic and athletic awards to corporate and special circumstances offerings. These scholarships are open to all residents of Marshall County, as long as other requirements are met.

Applying for a scholarship is free, so we invite you to spend some time finding opportunities for which you are a good fit.

McKinnis Vocational Scholarship Fund

This scholarship will be awarded to one or more Marshall County graduating high school student(s) who will be attending a vocational trade or technical career school.

Scholarship Overview

Since 1980, the Northern New York Community Foundation has awarded more than $28 million in scholarships to students from Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties.

Jefferson-Can Community Scholars Program

The Northern New York Community Foundation administers the Jefferson-Can Community Scholars Program in partnership with the Jefferson Community College Foundation.

Merit award minimum is $1,500 split between fall and spring semesters. The Northern New York Community Foundation will mail scholarship packets to students who qualify for the Jefferson-Can Community Scholars program. Class ranking is determined by the high school transcript applicants submit at the time of application for admission to JCC.

The Veterans Fund, established by the Community Foundation Boulder County, is dedicated to improving the lives of Veterans and their families in Boulder County through grants and community support. It focuses on meeting the needs of Veterans, fostering community connections, and promoting education on Veterans' issues. Nonprofits and public entities can apply for funding to support charitable activities that align with these goals, ensuring that grant proceeds benefit local residents.

Zeeland Rotary – Donald Morgan Memorial Scholarship

Graduating senior who resides in the Zeeland Public School District (student does not have to attend Zeeland Public Schools to be eligible).

Selkirk Pickleball Growth Program

At Selkirk, we are committed to growing the sport of pickleball by making it accessible to everyone. The Selkirk Growth Program enables schools and community programs worldwide to access Selkirk equipment.

Our original goal was to give away 3,000+ paddles a year; we have now given away more than 40,000 paddles since we started in 2019. As part of our Growth Program, we are donating gently-used paddles to:

Schools.

• First responders.
• Senior centers.
• Churches.
• Parks & recreation departments.
• Other community organizations looking to expand their programs.

We will also provide a discount on additional paddles, balls, and nets for schools and charities involved in the program.

Batts Family Scholarship

Graduating senior or graduating early college student who attends public, private, or home school in the primary service area of the Community Foundation.

The SOMA Foundation Grant supports Christian organizations aligned with its Statement of Faith, focusing on the West Central Georgia Health District and Russell County, Alabama. Established in 2014, it aims to promote the gospel of Jesus Christ through effective, collaborative, and sustainable ministries. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)3 organizations. Ineligible entities include endowments, social clubs, and those outside the U.S. or its territories. The foundation seeks ministries that document outcomes and align with its priorities.

The Runschke Family Scholarship, established by Gernot and Anne Runschke, supports students from Northwest Ottawa County pursuing vocational or trades programs. It aims to empower local youth by easing educational costs, while emphasizing community involvement and academic potential. Financial need is not a primary consideration, allowing a diverse range of applicants to qualify. This scholarship reflects the Runschke family's commitment to enhancing education and workforce development in their community.

The Delta Dental Foundation's Community Mini Grants provide up to $10,000 to local nonprofits promoting oral health care in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. These grants focus on enhancing access to dental care for at-risk populations, educating communities about oral health, and supporting innovative programs. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with strategic aims and the ability to achieve impactful results. This initiative seeks to improve community health through dedicated funding and support for effective oral health programs.

The Northwest Florida Grant, previously known as Gulf Power Foundation Grants, is supported by NextEra Energy Foundation. It focuses on enhancing communities in Northwest Florida, promoting sustainability and innovation. Eligible nonprofit organizations must operate within specific counties, be 501(c)(3) certified, and not have received a quarterly grant in the past year. This initiative aims to foster opportunities and safety for diverse communities.

The Next Gen North Early Childhood Development Grant, offered by the Delaware Community Foundation, provides $7,500 to support initiatives addressing early childhood development issues in New Castle County. This grant invites nonprofits to apply, focusing on equity and community-based philanthropy. It aims to foster opportunities for vulnerable families in Delaware while ensuring that funded programs do not discriminate based on race, religion, or other factors. Nonprofits are encouraged to submit proposals that align with these goals.

The ADEAGies Foundation Grant supports oral health innovations and the development of future leaders in academic dentistry. Funded by the ADEAGies Foundation, the program offers annual grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 for various dental programs and initiatives. The Board of Trustees evaluates proposals each March, aiming to fully fund as many projects as possible while reserving the right to offer partial funding. Grants are awarded annually to qualifying organizations.

The Elsie Skvir Ganister Foundation Fund, established in 2001, supports innovative initiatives that enhance the mission of Orthodoxy in the U.S. This fund, part of the First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania, prioritizes proposals addressing critical needs within the Orthodox Church. Grants, while modest, can catalyze impactful projects, such as educational programs for clergy and resources for community outreach. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) entities, ensuring a focus on effective and mission-driven projects.

The Wagner Catholic Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area, supports graduating seniors from local Catholic parishes who are pursuing higher education. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and faith commitment through a personal essay. The scholarship is renewable for up to three years, with a decreasing award amount after the first year. This initiative aims to empower students to further their education while fostering community values.

The Uihlein-Ironman Sports Fund supports young athletes from Lake Placid and the Olympic region, aiming to foster competitive sports and healthy lifestyles. Founded by local organizations, it provides financial assistance to promising athletes facing economic challenges and supports nonprofit programs promoting athleticism. Emphasis is placed on holistic development, with individual awards for those demonstrating significant national and international potential. Preference is given to applicants with strong performance histories and community service involvement.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Van’t Hof Scholarship

• Graduating senior from one of the following high schools: Black River, Holland Christian, Holland High School, West Ottawa, Zeeland East, or Zeeland West
• Enrolling at Hope College or Calvin University
• Financial need (must submit the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)
• Potentially renewable for three additional years

The Perkins Leadership Grant, funded by the Illinois Community College Board, aims to enhance Career and Technical Education (CTE) programming across Illinois community colleges. With approximately $1 million in federal funds, the grant focuses on three key objectives: aligning College and Career Pathway Endorsements with Postsecondary Programs, enhancing student-centered support services for CTE students, and expanding innovative delivery models. This initiative seeks to improve educational outcomes and accessibility for over 500,000 residents annually.

The Voya Unsung Heroes Awards Program supports educators with innovative class projects that enhance student learning. Annually, 50 selected educators receive $2,000 each, with three top awards of $5,000, $10,000, and $25,000. This initiative, backed by Voya Financial, aims to empower teachers in accredited K-12 schools across the U.S. to transform their ideas into impactful educational experiences, fostering creativity and engagement in the classroom.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

University of Michigan Club of Holland Scholarship

• Graduating senior or graduating early college student from one of the following high schools: Black River, Calvary Schools of Holland, Fennville, Hamilton, Holland Christian, Holland High School, Saugatuck, West Ottawa, Zeeland East, or Zeeland West
• Enrolling at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
• 1,700-character or less response to this prompt: Please explain why the University of Michigan is your first choice and discuss your educational goals and intended major

The BlueCross Healthy Place Program aims to enhance community well-being by developing accessible public spaces. This initiative focuses on creating environments that encourage physical activity and social interaction through features like playgrounds, fitness areas, and walking paths. Eligible applicants include government entities and non-profits ready to engage the community in project planning. Projects must cater to public use and demonstrate community benefits, ensuring inclusivity and active participation.

Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area

Our Mission

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area seeks to ensure that our community thrives today, tomorrow, and forever by building our Community’s Endowment to support high impact charitable projects, helping donors achieve their charitable goals, and leading and partnering in community-level initiatives.

Scholarships

CFHZ awards over $1 million in scholarships each year for students to attend schools of higher education throughout the nation. Our scholarships are possible thanks to the generosity of donors who invest in our community’s future by furthering the education of others.

All Holland/Zeeland area individuals interested in post-secondary education are encouraged to apply for CFHZ scholarships.

The Foundation proudly administers over 100 scholarships, each with unique eligibility criteria that must be met before a candidate can be considered.

Ted Vanden Bosch Scholarship for the Children of Police Officers, Firefighters, and Rescue Personnel

• Graduating senior or graduating early college student who attends public, private, or home school in the primary service area of the Community Foundation or in Fennville, Hamilton, or Saugatuck
• Enrolling at an accredited post-secondary school within the United States
• Financial need (must submit the page of the FAFSA Submission Summary showing the Student Aid Index amount)
• GPA of 3.0 or greater
• Child of a firefighter, police officer, or rescue personnel
• Special consideration given to candidates interested in pursuing a degree in the sciences