Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Manuscript Preparation Grants Program at Western Washington University offers up to $2,500 for manuscript preparation and publication costs. Eligible applicants include non-student employees with formal university appointments. The program supports costs such as indexing, licensing fees, and open-access fees, excluding self-published works unless justified. Due to high demand, applicants are encouraged to utilize this funding to enhance their professional scholarship and contribute to their academic disciplines.

The Faculty Summer Teaching Grants Program at Western Washington University awards $7,000 in summer salary to eligible faculty for projects aimed at enhancing instructional quality. Faculty must submit a well-prepared proposal, demonstrating significant effort beyond normal duties, to a committee for evaluation. Priority is given to tenured and tenure-track faculty, and those who have not received funding in the last two years. Applications require approval from department chairs and college deans before submission.

The Amy Heryford Ousley and James Heryford Ousley Educational Fund, established in 2005, provides scholarships to Klamath and Lake County students attending nonprofit colleges in the U.S. The fund, initially valued at $6.5 million, has awarded over $2.5 million in scholarships. Eligible students must have attended a Klamath County high school for four years, maintain a minimum GPA, and enroll as full-time students. Scholarships can reach up to $3,000 annually for up to five years.

ADECA Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) 

The Community Development Block Grant program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the State of Alabama has administered the program since 1982.

The program is available to all non-entitlement communities (those not receiving direct funds from HUD) that meet applicable thresholds

All projects must meet one of the three national objectives:

• Benefit at least 51% low and moderate income persons
• Aid in the prevention or clearance of slum and blight
• Meet an urgent need

The State is required to write an action plan each year for approval by HUD that shows how the State intends to distribute the funds. Since the beginning, Alabama has distributed the majority of funds through competition among communities.

Economic Development Fund (ED)

The ED Infrastructure Fund is available to all eligible communities for projects supporting the creation or retention of jobs. Applicants for ED assistance should have a commitment from the business to create or retain 15 or more jobs. The business should fall within the SIC codes 20-39 or provide a significant economic benefit. Projects must not include intrastate relocation. The program is available on a continuous funding cycle. A 20 percent local match is required, and construction cannot begin prior to grant award or release of environmental conditions.

Grant Ceiling:

• $400,000 (can be waived)

Typical activities: water, sewer, or road improvements; rail spurs, docks, etc.

• Economic Development Incubator ($400,000)
• Economic Development Float Loans ($10 million)

The Pilot Project Grant at Western Washington University aims to initiate innovative research and creative endeavors. With funding up to $5,000, it supports diverse activities such as proof-of-principle projects, planning meetings, and data gathering for new collaborations. Open to all non-student employees, the program encourages exploration beyond traditional research boundaries. However, it does not fund fixed-term activities or ongoing projects. This initiative is designed to foster long-term, impactful scholarly work within the university.

The Alpha Delta Pi Foundation, a private funder, established the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Endowment to support local RMHC Chapters in the U.S. and Canada that lack adequate backing from Alpha Delta Pi collegiate or alumnae associations. Since 1979, over $22 million has been contributed to RMHC, with grants ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 available for houses, renovations, and family room expansions, fostering a strong philanthropic partnership.

The Canada Program provides funding opportunities for Harvard faculty, departments, and schools to explore Canadian topics through research and visits from Canadian scholars and public figures. This initiative fosters a deeper understanding of Canada's influence in North America by supporting workshops, lectures, and collaborative projects. Eligible proposals must outline the intellectual goals of the visit and include a budget, enhancing academic exchange and dialogue between the US and Canada.

The Weatherhead Center for International Affairs at Harvard University offers a program for tenure-track faculty to disseminate their publications. Faculty Associates can request circulation of their published or unpublished work to up to ten scholars annually. The Center covers publication costs and mailing expenses, enhancing academic visibility and fostering collaboration in research areas.

The Community Foundation of West Alabama, established in 1999, supports charitable initiatives that benefit the West Alabama community. As a private non-profit organization, it aims to fund various projects while adhering to specific eligibility criteria. Grants are not available for individuals, political purposes, or regular operating expenses, ensuring funds are directed towards impactful community enhancements. This foundation prioritizes innovative projects that address pressing local needs and foster educational growth.

About ACSM

ACSM is the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world, with nearly 50,000 international, national and regional members and certified fitness professionals.

ACSM Fellowship

CSM Fellow members have demonstrated high standards of professional development and shown a commitment to the goals and long‑range activities of the college.

The purpose of fellowship is to recognize commendable service to ACSM; to encourage continued service to the College in a leadership role with ongoing dedication; also, to recognize distinguished achievement in sports medicine and related disciplines.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Robert H. & Shirley N. Waldo Scholarship Endowment Fund

Robert and Shirley Waldo bequeathed a portion of their estate to provide scholarships for local students.

Shirley Waldo (1923-2002) was a graduate of West Aurora High School. She received a teaching degree from DeKalb Teachers College and a master’s degree from Northwestern University.

She was an educator in the East Aurora School System for twelve years. In addition, Mrs. Waldo was a past president of the Copley Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, director of the Women’s Chicago District Golf Association and member of Our Savior Lutheran Church.

Her husband Robert Waldo (1911-2007) was born in Sycamore.

His family moved to Aurora the following year when his father K.D. Waldo was appointed principal of East Aurora High School. K.D. Waldo was later named superintendent of the East Aurora Schools.

Robert Waldo studied at North Central College and the University of Illinois. He was a proprietor of Healy Chapel and later of Daleiden Mortuary.

The NCC Foundation's Path2Success Scholarship supports Fairfield County residents pursuing degrees or certificates at CT State Norwalk, excluding nursing students. Eligible candidates must maintain a GPA between 2.0 and 3.2, complete between 12-30 credits (Spring) or up to 64 credits (Academic Year), and enroll in at least 6 credits per semester. Applicants must also submit the FAFSA or relevant documentation, ensuring access to educational opportunities that foster student success.

The Alison Lurie Memorial Fellowship for Female-Identifying Fiction Writers, offered by the Virginia Center for the Creative Arts, provides a two-week residency for a female-identifying fiction writer. This fully-funded opportunity includes a private bedroom, individual studio, and meals in a creative community. Supported by Edward Hower in memory of his wife Alison Lurie, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist, this fellowship aims to foster artistic growth and diverse perspectives in writing.

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 Emily Stover Memorial Scholarship offers $2,000 annually to support outstanding members of the Nantucket community. This scholarship is aimed at individuals who are dedicated to helping others and are pursuing careers that reflect this commitment. Eligible applicants must be Nantucket residents attending accredited colleges or universities, demonstrating a passion for community service and a desire to make a positive impact.

The Beckman Center Fellowships at the Science History Institute offer unique two-year curatorial fellowships for scholars interested in the history of science. These positions provide career training, mentorship, and a platform for independent research. Applicants with advanced degrees are encouraged to apply, benefiting from a supportive community and a competitive salary of $55,000, along with a $1,500 annual stipend for professional development. A cover letter and CV are required for application.

The Beckman Center Fellowships at the Science History Institute offer 12-month postdoctoral opportunities for scholars engaged in research on science, medicine, and technology. These fellowships support full-time research and participation in a vibrant scholarly community. Applicants must hold a doctoral degree or defend their dissertation by July 2026, and they receive a stipend of $50,000, along with additional funding for travel and health insurance. Ideal for researchers seeking collaborative engagement.

Introduction

The mission of the Governor’s Commission on Disability (GCD) is to improve “the quality of life of all New Mexicans with disabilities by addressing social integration, economic self-sufficiency, political resolve, physical and program accessibility, and full participation in the benefits of life and rights of all individuals."

Quality of Life Grant Program

As part of its mission, GCD continues the Quality of Life Grant Program (QOL). QOL provides small grants to New Mexico non-profits and other tax-exempt organizations to improve or enhance programs and services that increase the quality of life of all New Mexicans with disabilities.

Applications may be submitted to address one of five categories: Adaptive Movement; Programmatic Access; Emergency Preparedness Outreach and Education; Social Integration; Technology Training and Accessibility.

The goal of the QOL Grant Program is to allow an organization to provide more (quantity) or enhanced (quality) services in one or more of the listed categories. QOL grants are not awarded for routine operating costs (salaries not related to enhanced or increased services, for instance), or costs associated with starting a new program or delivering a new service. 

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services is inviting proposals for Round 2 Opioid Settlement Funding (RFP BHTHPTR26113) to support local opioid abatement strategies across seven districts. Eligible applicants may propose new projects distinct from previous funding. The agency aims to enhance health and resiliency in communities through innovative services. Preference will be given to applicants who have not previously received funding, ensuring a diverse range of strategies to combat opioid-related issues.

The Beckman Center Fellowships offer 12-month postdoctoral research opportunities at the Science History Institute, aimed at scholars who have completed their doctoral studies. With a stipend of $50,000, fellows engage in research, contribute to scholarly programs, and benefit from a vibrant academic community. Applicants must reside within 20 miles of Philadelphia, ensuring active participation in institute activities. This unique fellowship promotes the historical study of science, medicine, and technology, fostering global collaboration among researchers.

The Beckman Center Fellowships support graduate students conducting research for their doctoral dissertations for nine months. Offered by the Science History Institute, these fellowships include a stipend of $27,500 and up to $2,500 for health insurance. Recipients must engage in the fellowship community by participating in writing groups and lectures. Applicants must have their dissertation proposals accepted and reside within 20 miles of Philadelphia, fostering a collaborative scholarly environment.

The Beckman Center Fellowships at the Science History Institute offer distinguished scholars a unique opportunity to conduct research on the history of chemical and molecular science. These four-month fellowships, which come with a stipend of $20,000, require residents to engage with the institute's collections and contribute to the scholarly community through lectures and mentorship. Open to senior academics and independent scholars, this program fosters collaboration within a vibrant research environment.

The Beckman Center Fellowships at the Science History Institute offer short-term fellowships (1-4 months) for scholars to engage in independent research utilizing the Institute's collections. Open to researchers of all backgrounds, these fellowships provide a monthly stipend of $3,500 to cover travel and living expenses in Philadelphia. Fellows are encouraged to participate in the Institute's vibrant community through lectures and writing groups, enhancing both their research and collaborative efforts.

The Nunes Family Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides $500 to students from Southeastern Connecticut or Westerly, RI attending Mitchell College. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to support local students in pursuing higher education and achieving successful careers. Scholarship funds are disbursed to colleges by August 1, ensuring timely support for students' educational needs.

Delta Dental of New Mexico's 'Smiles Across New Mexico' program supports dental education initiatives aimed at improving oral health among underserved children and at-risk populations. Grants of $2,500 to $5,000 are awarded to programs that enhance awareness and access to quality dental care. The program prioritizes impactful projects with strong community support and requires past recipients to demonstrate the effective use of funds in future applications.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Dorothy K. Witte Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund

This Fund honors the memory of Dorothy K. Witte (1912-2008) who taught in East Aurora School District elementary schools for the bulk of her career. She had previously taught briefly in several Lutheran schools prior to having her three children, Elizabeth, Jonathan, and Robert who all graduated from East Aurora High School. After her husband Paul’s death at age 46, she began teaching in the East Aurora School District 131, at Brady Elementary, to support her young family. Her career in education became her life’s passion which spanned 25 years (1958-1982).

Dorothy’s dedication to helping students who had behavioral and learning difficulties led her to be the “go to” teacher for working with students with educational challenges. Often her students were the only English speakers in their home, so she took Spanish lessons to be able to communicate more effectively with the parents of her students. She occasionally made home visits when families felt uncomfortable attending school conferences. Her dining room table at home was often cluttered with lesson plans, teaching supplies, and papers to grade. She was known to stay in her classroom until well after dark working to prepare for class the next day.

Her daughter Beth (1940-2011) followed her mother into a career in teaching/education. Her sons Jon and Bob initially studied to be teachers, but eventually went into the medical field as physicians. They now establish this scholarship to honor their mother and the teaching profession which has been a consistent thread through their family. The funds awarded are intended for a recipient who seeks to pursue a career as a public school educator, helping those who most need the expertise of a skilled and caring teacher.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

George & Cora Webster Scholarship Endowment Fund

The George and Cora Webster Scholarship Endowment Fund provides scholarships to African American students who are graduates of high schools located within the Community Foundation service area.

George Webster is a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Westinghouse High School in Pittsburgh and attended Pennsylvania State University. In 1963, Mr. Webster enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. His service included sixteen months in Vietnam. After serving ten years in the Marine Corp, he joined the United States Navy. From 1979 until 1982, he was a Navy recruiter in Aurora. He served on five different aircraft carriers, and eventually achieved the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer. Upon his retirement from the service in 1988, he and his wife Cora Webster moved back to the Aurora Community. George was also an Aurora Election Commission Judge for twenty-one years and a member of the Aurora Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association for many years.

Cora Webster was born in Eudora, Arkansas. She worked as a licensed cosmetologist in Texas and was employed by both the May Company and the KMART Corporation in Illinois. Cora (1939-2022) was a member of the Main Street Baptist Church and served as a member of the Nurse’s Aide Ministry.

Mr. and Mrs. Webster were married in December 1969 at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church in Chicago. They have one son, one granddaughter, two grandsons, and two great-grandsons.