Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

Community Foundation of New Jersey

Over our 46-year history, the Community Foundation of New Jersey has collaborated with individuals, families, organizations, and businesses to design charitable funds and implement the philanthropic solutions they want to see in their communities. We leverage $1.17 billion in assets and 1,200 funds to help our partners think boldly and creatively about ways to give.

Scholarship Fund Overview

Beyond a shared commitment to educational opportunity, families establish scholarship funds with a variety of goals and purposes in mind. They may offer traditional scholarships or customize fund awards for alternative scholarships.

Currently, CFNJ administers more than 135 scholarship funds. Our scholarship opportunities run the gamut, from those exclusive to a local high school or geographic region to those supporting specific majors or career pursuits. Last year, we awarded over $2 million in scholarship assistance to 271 scholars.

Applicants may be evaluated on academic performance; extracurricular activities; community involvement; paid or unpaid work; and a statement of their personal aspirations, educational goals, and demonstrated unmet financial need in our scholarship review process.

Alfred J. Speak Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a college-bound, graduating high school senior from the greater Newark area. Preference will be given to students who are affiliated with the Boys and Girls Club of Newark or the First Presbyterian Church (located on Broad Street in Newark). Applicants will be evaluated on academic performance, extracurricular activities, community service, work (paid or unpaid), and unmet financial need.

About Community Foundation of South Alabama

Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama, improving the lives of many residents in our corner of the world.

We amplify the gifts from generous donors through wise investment, support others in efforts to enhance our community, and lead and collaborate on initiatives which have a broad impact.

Scholarships

The more than 40 scholarship funds at the Foundation were created by generous donors who wanted to help the students in our community achieve a brighter future. We are committed to assisting the most promising students with scholarships for professional certificate programs, two and four-year undergraduate degrees and graduate school. The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, books, and fees.

Gus Shopoff Scholarship Fund

For a graduating senior who is a member of Team Focus, plans to attend any school of higher learning, is well rounded, has exemplary grades and community involvement.

About Community Foundation of South Alabama

Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama, improving the lives of many residents in our corner of the world.

We amplify the gifts from generous donors through wise investment, support others in efforts to enhance our community, and lead and collaborate on initiatives which have a broad impact.

Scholarships

The more than 40 scholarship funds at the Foundation were created by generous donors who wanted to help the students in our community achieve a brighter future. We are committed to assisting the most promising students with scholarships for professional certificate programs, two and four-year undergraduate degrees and graduate school. The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, books, and fees.

Hilliard P. and Helen P. Jenkins Scholarship

Recipient must: (1) be an African-American resident of Baldwin County; (2) attend a two- or four-year public and accredited institution as a full-time student; (3) intend to pursue a Liberal Arts, Health/Medical, Social Sciences, or Physical Sciences degree, and (4) have a minimum high school GPA of 3.0.

The Broomfield Community Foundation offers the Arts & Civic Grant to support innovative programs that benefit Broomfield citizens. With two annual grant cycles, this funding opportunity focuses on civic projects and arts initiatives. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their commitment to serving the community and adhere to specific guidelines, ensuring funds are used effectively. This grant promotes collaboration and creativity, aiming to enhance the quality of life in Broomfield through community engagement and philanthropy.

Who We Are

Founded in 1996, the Community Foundation of South Georgia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to making South Georgia a better place to live through effective philanthropy. We help individuals, families, nonprofit organizations and businesses establish and manage charitable funds that carry out their philanthropic interests. Serving a geographic area of 35 counties in South Georgia, we facilitate our donors’ charitable plans and goals by creating custom designed funds that meet their specific interests and ensure solid financial management and administration for each fund. 

Hosea Hall & Lilly Eason Vann Scholarship

For a graduating senior of a high school located in Thomas County, Georgia who has attained at least a 3.0 GPA in high school. The award is based on Academics, Financial Need, Leadership Qualities, Extracurricular Activities and Community Service.

The Delta Dental Foundation provides in-kind dental donations, including educational materials and hygiene products, to support organizations in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. These donations aim to promote oral health awareness and equity among underserved communities. Interested organizations should plan ahead, as applications are reviewed after the submission period closes. Supplies may be limited, and quantity restrictions may apply. For more information, preview available materials through the Foundation's website.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Siegel Family Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior or recent graduate (1-2 years out of high school) from the greater Newark area. Preference will be given to students who have been actively involved with GlassRoots, Inc., or Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson & Union Counties. Students will be evaluated on academic performance (2.5 GPA or better), extracurricular activities, community service, work (paid or unpaid), and unmet financial need.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Peter Eisen Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior who has experienced the loss of a biological parent before the age of 18. Students must have achieved a cumulative 3.0 GPA or better. Applicants will be evaluated on academic performance, extracurricular activities, community service, work (paid or unpaid), and unmet financial need

The Capital Projects Grant Program, offered by the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities, supports organizations that own or rent facilities, intend to own facilities, or seek capital project support for permanent assets in the arts and humanities. It aims to promote stability and growth, preserve infrastructure, ensure access to quality spaces, reduce displacement risk, and foster access for all residents.

The William G. & Myrtle Hess Charitable Trust Grant supports Catholic charitable organizations in Oakland County, MI, with a focus on Waterford and White Lake Townships. This grant emphasizes education and scientific endeavors. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS tax code, while individuals are not permitted to apply. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare through financial assistance to deserving causes.

The Shavlik Family Foundation Grant focuses on funding innovative technology projects that enhance the operational efficiency of nonprofits and Tribal governments in Minnesota. With a commitment to transparency and continuous improvement, the foundation aims to support impactful projects that demonstrate measurable benefits. Eligible organizations must be recognized as 501(c)(3) public charities or Tribal governments, working to improve the lives and environment of Minnesota residents. The grant process encourages discussion of proposals with foundation staff.

The Myrtle And William Hess Charitable Trust Grant provides funding to Catholic charitable organizations focused on education and scientific initiatives in Oakland County, MI, with a specific preference for those in Waterford and White Lake Townships. This grant is exclusively available to nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS tax code. Individuals are not eligible to apply for this grant.

The Vision Grants by Illinois Humanities support nonprofit organizations in Illinois, focusing on planning, evaluation, and DEI initiatives. These grants aim to foster community engagement through workshops, research, and interactive programming. Organizations with an annual budget of $1 million or less are prioritized, and funds can be used for training and collaboration efforts. The initiative emphasizes equitable growth and aims to strengthen organizations' capacities to serve diverse communities.

Office of Accounts and Control

The primary mission of the Office of Accounts and Control is to promote the financial integrity and accountability of state government through sound administrative and accounting controls and procedures.

State of Rhode Island Designated Grants

State Designated Grants are funded through the state budget. In 2016, the Community Service Grant program was eliminated and replaced in favor of state agency-administered itemized budget appropriations and competitive grants. The Department of Administration’s Office of Accounts and Control has developed a standard payment policy and uniform set of procedures that will enhance the transparency and accountability of our state grant-funding system, while also taking into account best practices from across state and federal entities.

Designated Grants are funded each fiscal year though the Rhode Island State Budget. State Agencies are awarded specific allocations of funding, stated in the budget. If your organization is awarded funds from a State Agency, you will be contacted by said State Agency with information about your award and instructions on how to submit an application.

South Dakota Community Foundation

As a statewide community foundation, we work with donors, nonprofits and community leaders to strengthen philanthropy in South Dakota every day.

Grants

The South Dakota Community Foundation offers an array of grants to help state nonprofits realize their dreams and continue investing in their communities. 

Tyndall Community Foundation Grant

The sole purpose of the Tyndall Community Foundation is to support the general welfare of the Tyndall community.

To date, the Tyndall Community Foundation has given back nearly $70,000 in grants to nonprofit groups and organizations in Tyndall.

Qualification

• Purpose of the project should fulfill a community need. (for example: is your project going to benefit the community in general)
• IRS now requires a non-profit organization be verified by the IRS. Proof of non-profit status may be required upon request. Governmental entities (cities, counties, schools) and churches are exempt from the verification requirements and do qualify to receive grant funding.

Discrimination

Applications from agencies offering services exclusively to one gender, age, group or race will be closely scrutinized for discriminatory practices.

Fund Distribution

• Grant applications must be completed in full.
• Grants will be reviewed and awarded at the discretion of the Tyndall Community Foundation Board.
• All applicants will be informed verbally and /or in writing to the approval or disapproval of their application.
• Funds must be used within 12 months from awarding or funds will revert back to the community funds account.

Limitations

• Tyndall Community Foundation will grant no more than a maximum of 4.5% of Fund’s Value in any single year.
• Recipients may be eligible for one grant every other year, unless surplus money is available.

About Us

For more than 100 years, Duquesne Light Company has provided safe and reliable electric service to communities in southwestern Pennsylvania. Today, our core values of safety, integrity, dependability, equity and community enable us to serve more than 600,000 customers in two counties, including the city of Pittsburgh. We are committed to safely powering our customers’ lives while playing a leading role in our region’s clean energy transition. Our vision is to create a larger-than-light, clean energy future for all by delivering exceptional results today and boldly harnessing opportunities for tomorrow. In doing so, we can ensure a cleaner, healthier and more equitable community for generations to come.

Charitable Giving at Duquesne Light

Our Charitable Giving Grants Program is designed to help communities most affected by the rising cost of living—especially those burdened by high energy expenses. By prioritizing funding for nonprofit organizations helping individuals and families meet their basic needs and access high quality workforce development opportunities, we aim to reduce financial strain and promote long-term economic stability for residents across our service area.

Sponsorships

Duquesne Light Company is proud to support local events that strengthen and uplift our community. To be considered for sponsorship, all requests must be submitted through our online form. Please allow 4–6 weeks for our team to review your submission. Because of this timeline, we’re typically unable to sponsor events occurring within 30 days of the request. For questions regarding sponsorships, please email sponsorships@duqlight.com.

Kansas Kiwanis Foundation 

The Kansas Kiwanis Foundation was founded in 1963, the Kansas Kiwanis Foundation is a charitable corporation organized under the laws of the State of Kansas and in accordance with the IRS Code 501 (c)(3). Our Membership is ALL Kansas Kiwanians. If you belong to a Kiwanis Club in Kansas, you are automatically a member of our foundation. Each division in the Kansas District has a divisional representative who is a member of the Board of Directors and represents individual Kiwanis members.

Kansas Kiwanis Foundation Grants

Club Community Project Grants - Each year clubs can apply for a grant to be awarded to a tax-exempt organization for a community project.

If your club has a tax-exempt organization community project they would like assistance in funding, complete and submit the Grant Request Form. 

South Dakota Community Foundation

As a statewide community foundation, we work with donors, nonprofits and community leaders to strengthen philanthropy in South Dakota every day.

Grants

The South Dakota Community Foundation offers an array of grants to help state nonprofits realize their dreams and continue investing in their communities. 

Sisseton Area Community Foundation Grants

Grants from the Sisseton Area Community Foundation support non-profit organizations and groups that are addressing community needs in the Sisseton area. These grants are selected by a volunteer Advisory Board. 

The Watauga County Community Foundation, established in 1991, supports local philanthropic efforts through grants, building community assets via permanent endowments. The Armfield and Rachel Rivers Coffey Memorial Fund, part of this foundation, focuses on aiding the Watauga Humane Society and the foundation itself. Grants typically range from $500 to $5,000, with $30,000 awarded in 2023. This program empowers local organizations to address pressing community needs through competitive funding opportunities.

South Dakota Community Foundation

As a statewide community foundation, we work with donors, nonprofits and community leaders to strengthen philanthropy in South Dakota every day.

Grants

The South Dakota Community Foundation offers an array of grants to help state nonprofits realize their dreams and continue investing in their communities. 

Selby Community Foundation Grant

Selby Community Foundation was established by a local advisory council in partnership with South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF). Their goal is to create a long-term funding source for charitable causes in the local area. With careful investment, the fund will continue to thrive and enhance quality of life in the local area creating a lasting legacy. This fund is one of 90 community savings accounts in partnership with SDCF.

South Dakota Community Foundation

As a statewide community foundation, we work with donors, nonprofits and community leaders to strengthen philanthropy in South Dakota every day.

Grants

The South Dakota Community Foundation offers an array of grants to help state nonprofits realize their dreams and continue investing in their communities. 

Armour Community Foundation

We are one of 90 Community Savings Accounts in South Dakota. Even though we are an agent of the South Dakota Community Foundation, we are able to accept and administer charitable gifts, give good grants to our local nonprofit groups and organizations, and also give scholarships to hopeful young people from our region. Our volunteer advisory council works hard to ensure funds are going to groups and organizations that need it most. Since 2002, the Armour Community Foundation has given back more than $150,000 to the community! 

The Central Energy Trust offers event funding to support major activities in the Manawatu/Tararua region. Grants are available for projects that are energy-related and benefit the community or promote economic development. The Trust aims to ensure that any profits from these events support charitable organizations, thereby enhancing community welfare and promoting energy conservation. This initiative reflects the Trust's commitment to fostering sustainable energy practices and community engagement.

The Kansas Department of Commerce is committed to helping individuals, businesses and communities achieve prosperity in Kansas. One of the ways it accomplishes this mission is by providing financial assistance and partnership support to further identified goals. 

Kansas Main Street Program

Main Street is a self-help, technical assistance program that targets revitalization and preservation of downtown districts through the development of a comprehensive strategy.

The program has a long history of success throughout the United States and in Kansas. What started as a small pilot program in the late 1970s has now grown to include nearly 2,000 communities in more than 40 states. Throughout the country, communities have utilized the Main Street Approach to rally residents around a focused plan of action that transforms their community and enhances their quality of life.

From 1985 to 2012, more than $600 million in redevelopment took place in participating Kansas communities. This included the opening or expansion of 3,800 small businesses, creating more than 8,600 new jobs. With the return of the state program in 2020, 25 previously participating communities and new programs will once again have the resources and tools they need to breathe new life into their communities and historic commercial districts.

Designated Communities

To become a Designated Kansas Main Street community, registrants must participate in a competitive, annual application process. This process includes attending our Application Workshop and attaining recommendation by the Review Team based on their evaluation of a community’s capacity to achieve success. The completed application must demonstrate:

• Public and private support for the program, as well as the capability of the applicant to successfully implement the local Main Street program.
• Financial capability to employ a paid professional director, fund a local Main Street Program, and support downtown-related projects.
• A cohesive and distinct variety of business activity conducted in a proposed Main Street Program area.
• An interest in, and commitment to, historic preservation, specifically in the designated downtown district.

Once selected, Designated Communities receive:

• Comprehensive technical assistance in all areas of the Main Street Approach designed to further economic development downtown.
• Training in strategic planning, program capacity building, and organizational management for the Main Street organization.
• Individualized training for Main Street managers, boards, and other Main Street participants.
• Attendance to statewide, Main Street-specific, quarterly trainings and professional development opportunities for participant communities.
• Access to design services on an as-needed basis to help downtown property owners undertake effective rehabilitation, restoration, adaptive re-use, and infill projects, as well as the reimagining of public spaces within the district.
• Access to state and national grant funds (when available).
• Membership to the Main Street America network.
• At least one paid registration to participate in the annual Main Street America national conference.

The Creative Heights initiative, funded by The Oregon Community Foundation, aims to enhance Oregon's cultural landscape by supporting innovative arts projects. Grants between $10,000 and $100,000 are available annually, totaling up to $1 million. The program encourages unique proposals that foster creativity across various disciplines, including visual arts, theatre, and music. Eligible applicants include individuals and groups, with a focus on collaboration and community engagement, ensuring diverse and underserved audiences are reached.

The Black Rock Wind Project Community Benefit Fund Grant, established by the US Wind Force Foundation, aims to support community-oriented projects in Mineral and Grant Counties, near Skyline, West Virginia. This fund will allocate up to $133,000 annually to local organizations, significantly exceeding previous commitments from similar initiatives. The 115 MW wind project includes 23 turbines and fosters sustainable development while enhancing community welfare.

The South Wayne Community Fund, established in 1998, enables residents of South Wayne to contribute enduring charitable gifts to their community. Annually, the advisory board awards grants to non-profit organizations, the local school district, and government agencies that implement charitable programs benefiting the South Wayne area. As a component fund of the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, it supports local initiatives and fosters community engagement.