Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Gus Poesch Research Fund, established in honor of innovator Gus Poesch, offers approximately $40,000 annually to support floriculture-related projects at The Ohio State University. This fund prioritizes projects that recruit high-quality graduate students, advance research, and improve industry practices. Emphasizing relevance to current industry needs, funded projects may cover pest management, production techniques, and postharvest quality. The fund encourages collaboration and aims to enhance the profitability and sustainability of the floral industry.

About AWS

We Move Welding Forward

Founded in 1919, the American Welding Society is a nonprofit organization with a global mission: to advance the science, technology, and application of welding and allied joining and cutting processes worldwide, including brazing, soldering, and thermal spraying.

By fostering knowledge, embracing change, and providing real-world opportunities through scholarships, fellowships, and workforce development, AWS provides the tools to help members succeed—and to inspire future generations of welding professionals.

Outstanding Achievement Awards

The AWS Outstanding Achievement Awards honor exceptional contributions in welding, spanning historical structures, innovative fabrication, safety, and technical advancements across various categories.

Professor Koichi Masubuchi Award

This award is sponsored by the Center for Ocean Engineering at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The award will be given to one individual who has made significant contributions in the advancement of the science and technology of materials joining through research and development. The individual is to be 40 years old or younger and may live in any part of the world. The recipient need not be a member of AWS.

Complete nomination packets may be submitted for consideration to the AWS Awards Committee and must include an introduction letter of support and a complete resume or CV of the individual's qualifications.

The applicant is requested to indicate his/her birth year in the resume to verify that he/she is 40 years old or younger for the year in which the applicant is nominated.

Complete nominations must be received by the deadline of December 31. The award will be presented at the following year's FABTECH show. Submit your nomination to Wei Zhang at zhang.3978@osu.edu or at nationalawards@aws.org.

The Abilene Regional Medical Center Auxiliary Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, aims to support healthcare professionals in enhancing their skills and obtaining relevant degrees. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to addressing educational needs within the community. Preference is given to Abilene Regional Employees who possess a certification in the healthcare field. The fund exemplifies a collaborative effort to foster a well-trained healthcare workforce in Abilene.

About AWS

We Move Welding Forward

Founded in 1919, the American Welding Society is a nonprofit organization with a global mission: to advance the science, technology, and application of welding and allied joining and cutting processes worldwide, including brazing, soldering, and thermal spraying.

By fostering knowledge, embracing change, and providing real-world opportunities through scholarships, fellowships, and workforce development, AWS provides the tools to help members succeed—and to inspire future generations of welding professionals.

Outstanding Achievement Awards

The AWS Outstanding Achievement Awards honor exceptional contributions in welding, spanning historical structures, innovative fabrication, safety, and technical advancements across various categories.

Distinguished Welder Award

This award recognizes an individual whose welding skills and experience would earn them the recognition of being an AWS Distinguished Welder.

A complete nomination packet should include information addressing the Definition and candidate's Application Criteria as outlined in the AWS Distinguished Welder Award Nomination Form. The focus of the nomination packet should include specifics of the individual's skills.

The Minnesota Department of Education offers the Public Library Association Conference 2026 Travel Grant to support library staff in attending the conference from April 1-3, 2026, in Minneapolis. This initiative aims to enhance professional development, networking, and the sharing of best practices. Priority is given to first-time attendees and libraries serving populations under 50,000. Only one staff member from each regional library system may attend in person, with additional virtual participation available.

The Cora Du Bois Fellowship, offered by the Cora Du Bois Charitable Trust and Harvard University's Tozzer Library, supports advanced Ph.D. students who have completed all requirements except their dissertation. This fellowship enhances research through access to the Tozzer Library's resources. It is open to both Harvard and non-Harvard students in Anthropology or related fields, providing funding for two, six, or twelve months, with the expectation that fellows will complete their dissertation by the end of the funding period.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

LeRoy Apker Award

The LeRoy Apker Award recognizes outstanding achievements in physics by undergraduate students, and provides encouragement to students who have demonstrated great potential for future scientific accomplishment. Two awards are presented each year, one to a student from a PhD granting institution, and one to a student from a non-PhD granting institution. The award consists of $5,000 for the recipient, $5,000 for their undergraduate institution's physics department to support undergraduate research, a certificate, and reimbursement for travel to an APS meeting to give an invited talk.

Six finalists are selected to present their research for the Apker Award Selection Committee. Each of the finalists will receive an honorarium of $2,000, $1,000 for their undergraduate institution’s physics department to support undergraduate research, reimbursement for travel to the selection meeting, and a certificate.

The Community Garden Grants aim to strengthen Central Ohio's neighborhoods by providing financial support for the creation and expansion of community gardens and greenspaces. With funding up to $3,000 and in-kind donations, the program focuses on enhancing local food access, education, and the environmental benefits of gardening. Eligible projects must benefit community groups and be completed within a year, helping connect residents to healthier lifestyles and community building opportunities.

The Friedrich Katz Prize in Latin American and Caribbean History, awarded by the American Historical Association, honors the best book published in English on Latin America, including the Caribbean, with a prize amount of $1,000. Eligibility includes books bearing a copyright of 2024, and nominations can be submitted by authors or publishers. Winners will be announced on the AHA website in October 2025 and recognized at the January 2026 AHA annual meeting in Chicago.

About AWS

We Move Welding Forward

Founded in 1919, the American Welding Society is a nonprofit organization with a global mission: to advance the science, technology, and application of welding and allied joining and cutting processes worldwide, including brazing, soldering, and thermal spraying.

By fostering knowledge, embracing change, and providing real-world opportunities through scholarships, fellowships, and workforce development, AWS provides the tools to help members succeed—and to inspire future generations of welding professionals.

Education / Meritorious / Service Awards

The Educational/Meritorious/Service awards recognize individuals who have made notable contributions to the welding industry. From educators who have advanced welding knowledge to those who've exhibited outstanding service, these awards celebrate dedication, expertise, and the advancement of welding as both an art and a science.

Dalton E. Hamilton Memorial CWI of the Year Award

This award, administered by the Certification Committee, is given annually by the American Welding Society as a means of recognizing individuals participating in the Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI) and Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) program whose inspection, American Welding Society, professional activity and civic activities are considered to have enhanced public awareness and opinion of both the Society and the CWI program or otherwise have made an outstanding contribution to the science of welding inspection.

This award is recognized at the National, District and Section levels. The nominee is selected at least 12 months in advance of FABTECH. Selections for the Section and District awards are made during the annual District Conference meetings. District and Section level recognitions are automatic but National level nominee information is submitted to the AWS Certification Committee for final selection.

• A nomination form must be submitted, along with an introduction letter of support and a complete resume or CV of the individual’s qualifications. Complete National nominations must be received by February 1st.

Library Vision Grant Guidelines

General Grant

Libraries provide essential services to communities by providing access to information, fostering literacy, and supporting lifelong learning and personal enrichment. The Library Vision grant program supports libraries of all types in the development of essential services and programs and increasing access to valuable collections. Through funding creative and impactful projects, the program strengthens the role of libraries as vital community hubs.

Grant applications must describe the purpose of the project, the activities required to complete the project, the impact that the project will have on the community, and a clear evaluation plan with measurable goals. The project must be aligned with a Library Vision goal and the application must clearly articulate how the project aligns with the specific goal selected. The grant will not be funded if the project and the selected Library Vision goal are not aligned. Applicants are encouraged to review the Library Vision Strategic Plan for more information on the goals.

• small grant: $500–$1,999
• large grant: $2,000–$10,000

The AAO-HNSF Health Services Research Grant provides $10,000 for one year to support research that enhances the effectiveness and appropriateness of medical practices in otolaryngology. Projects should yield clinically significant findings within the award period and can be innovative in nature. Eligible applicants include otolaryngologists from the U.S. and Canada, with support letters required from Department Chairs. Funding cannot be used for Principal Investigator salaries or clerical support, and detailed budgeting is crucial for application.

The AAO-HNSF Resident Research Award provides $10,000 to support innovative resident research in otolaryngology. It encourages projects that enhance patient safety and quality improvement, focusing on collaboration with preceptor investigators. Applications must include letters of support and a detailed budget. This grant aims to foster original, scientifically valid research that can significantly advance the field of otolaryngology and improve healthcare outcomes.

The Howard E. Stark Charitable Foundation focuses on granting funds to small, dedicated animal welfare organizations in the Northeast US. Established in 2007, the foundation supports various initiatives, including humane societies, rescue organizations, and wildlife rehabilitation services. With a commitment to making a difference, they aim to empower groups with limited assets and fundraising capabilities to enhance animal welfare through essential services and educational programs.

The Margaret Warren & Grace Lemley Animal Welfare Grant honors the legacy of Maggie Warren, a dedicated advocate for animal welfare. This grant aims to support organizations in the Black Hills area that focus on improving animal welfare, including new programs, operational expenses, and small capital improvements. Eligible applicants include IRS 501(c)3 charities and schools. Grants will not support capital campaigns or organizations that do not adhere to a no-kill policy.

The Educationally Related Worcester Nonprofit Organizations Grant, established by the George I. Alden Trust, focuses on capital needs for educational initiatives in Worcester, Massachusetts. The Trustees prioritize grants that enhance community support and education, providing funding primarily for capital projects. Organizations must adhere to specific eligibility criteria and grant cycles to ensure effective distribution of resources. This grant aims to foster significant educational advancements while honoring George Alden's commitment to community welfare.

ADECA Alabama Weatherization Assistance Program

The Alabama Weatherization Assistance Program receives funding from the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. ADECA contracts with local community action agencies and the Central Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission to deliver weatherization assistance to low-income households in all 67 counties across the state.

The mission is to reduce energy costs for low-income households, particularly for the elderly, people with disabilities and families with children, by improving the energy efficiency of their homes while ensuring their health and safety. In order to receive assistance, the applicant’s income must not exceed 200% of the federally established poverty level.

Alabama Weatherization Assistance requires participants agree to minor alterations to their homes based on an assessment and energy audit conducted by trained professionals to determine the most cost-effective means of reducing energy consumption. Health and safety checks are also performed on the home.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) administers federal and state grant awards to its subgrantees to carry out a program. Such entities include primarily school systems (referred to as local educational agencies [LEAs] in statutes), including independent school districts and charter schools; education service centers (ESCs); and, to a lesser degree, institutions of higher education (IHEs), nonprofit organizations (NPOs), and other statutorily allowable organizations.

State Facilities Incentive Technical Assistance Grant

Program Description

The purpose of the State Facilities Incentive Technical Assistance Grant is to provide high-quality facilities support to Texas charter schools and support State Facilities Incentive Grant (SFIG) grantees. The grant activities include providing technical assistance for charter school leaders on smart decision-making related to facilities and growth. This support aims to increase expertise in facilities planning, financing and operations. Grant activities also include supporting SFIG grantees through monitoring and evaluation to ensure awarded SFIG funds are appropriately stewarded. 

MN Public Works - Broadband Infrastructure Grant

Broadband Infrastructure grants assist projects that help households and businesses reach the State of Minnesota broadband speed goal. 

Funding Availability

• Funded at $1,000,000 for Fiscal Year 2026 from the Taconite Environmental Protection Fund.
• The number of grants awarded is variable and dependent upon the amounts awarded to successful
• applicants.
• 1:1 match per project required.
• In-kind materials and/or labor are not eligible towards the project match.
• Consideration will be given to projects that leverage greater amounts of funding for a project from other sources.
• Architectural and engineering fees in excess of 10% of the total project costs are ineligible for reimbursement.
• Applications should be submitted within nine months of the project construction start date.

Enhearten Micro Grant supports unseen leaders by providing funding for community-driven projects that embody values of humility, integrity, and love. Grants range from $500 to $1,000 and are awarded after a thorough review process. Enhearten aims to empower these leaders, who often lack access to traditional funding sources, by fostering reparative networks that prioritize equality and justice. This initiative seeks to create opportunities for transformative community engagement and support.

American Physical Society

The American Physical Society is a nonprofit membership organization working to advance physics by fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and global community dedicated to science and society. APS represents more than 50,000 members, including physicists in academia, national laboratories, and industry in the United States and around the world.

APS Honors recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of the global physics community. Guided by our core values, APS Honors encourages nominations that reflect the full range of talent, distinction, and experience in our field, and supports broad canvassing for professional achievement across diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and expertise.

Leo Szilard Lectureship Award

To recognize outstanding accomplishments by physicists in promoting the use of physics for the benefit of society in such areas as the environment, arms control, and science policy. The lecture format is intended to increase the visibility of those who have promoted the use of physics for the benefit of society. The award consists of $5,000, a certificate citing the contributions of the recipient, plus $2,000 travel expenses for lectures given by the recipient at an APS meeting and at two or more educational institutions or research laboratories in the year following the award. The lectures should be especially aimed at physicists early in their careers.

Nominations will be considered for three review cycles provided the nominator re-certifies the nomination before the next deadline.

The Douglas Community Fund Grant offers competitive grants aimed at supporting medical and other community needs within Douglas County. Applications are welcomed for the spring cycle, prioritizing a diverse array of projects that benefit the region. Established by the Douglas Community Foundation, the program continues to focus on addressing essential medical needs, reflecting its origins in supporting local healthcare facilities.

OnPoint Community Credit Union, founded in 1932, is committed to supporting schools through funding for educational programs and direct contributions to public schools, PTAs, and alumni associations. With a focus on Economic Opportunity and Community Vitality, they prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion in their funding initiatives. Grants typically range from $250 to $2,500, supporting organizations that align with their core values within Oregon and SW Washington.

Meade County Community Foundation

The idea for Meade County Community Foundation began as a way to keep funds collected by the Sherriff's Department in Meade County instead of sending them onto the state. Since 2019, we have funded several county-wide and individual community projects thanks to these funds and The Patterson Family Foundation.

MCCF is focused on Meade County and all three school districts that serve the youth of our county, extending our reach into Seward County as well. MCCF is a 501(c)3 organization.

Grants

With the generosity of all of our donors and the partnerships we have with the Meade County Sheriff's department and The Patterson Family Foundation, MCCF was able to grant out $16,550 in our Summer 2025 cycle. In 2025 alone, MCCF granted out nearly $30,000. All time grants from MCCF are now over $76,000. 

The Innovation and Research Fellowship Program (IRFP) Grant, sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, aims to foster technological research and support the innovation ecosystem in New Jersey. It encourages Ph.D. candidates and graduates to collaborate with local science and technology firms. Grants may be awarded for up to two years, contingent upon funding availability, and are intended to primarily fund research and innovation activities.

The CBT Community Development Program empowers Basin residents to tackle community challenges and seize opportunities for growth. Established in 1995, this initiative fosters social, economic, and environmental well-being through collaborative efforts. Non-profits, municipalities, and First Nations are eligible to apply, with a focus on projects that demonstrate community impact and fundraising efforts. The program prioritizes strategic and capital projects that enhance community assets, ensuring a sustainable future for the Basin.

The ASNT Foundation: Charles Hellier III Scholarship aims to support students pursuing studies in nondestructive testing (NDT). This scholarship honors Charles Hellier III, a pioneering figure in the NDT community, and provides financial assistance to aspiring professionals. The Foundation also engages in research, workforce development, and offers scholarships to enhance education in NDT, ensuring that individuals are well-prepared for careers in this vital field.