Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Laura May Stewart Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Banning and Beaumont, California, with a maximum award of $6,000. Established from a $1.2 million trust by Laura May Stewart in 1974, it provides funding for charitable, civic, and cultural purposes. Organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and can apply once per calendar year. The grant aims to enhance the well-being of local residents, ensuring equitable assistance regardless of race, color, or creed.

The Fort Scott Area Community Foundation Grant supports local nonprofits in Bourbon County, including public charities, schools, and government agencies. Established in 2007, it aims to enhance the quality of life in the Fort Scott area by connecting donors with worthy causes. Grant applications are accepted annually in August, evaluated in September, and awarded in late October. The foundation prioritizes sustainable projects and collaborations to maximize impact.

The Future Fund Giving Circle, part of the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas, unites friends and family from the Pittsburg area to support local nonprofits, schools, and government institutions in Crawford County. Since its inception in 2006, it has awarded over $179,000 in grants, including nearly $18,500 in 2023. The fund encourages charitable giving to enhance the quality of life in the region, with grant applications available each August.

The Ash Grove Affiliate Grantmaking Program, administered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, aims to improve the quality of life in Ash Grove through targeted funding. A total of $8,448 is available, with individual grant requests starting at $500. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and other IRS-approved entities serving the area. The program prioritizes projects that directly benefit the Ash Grove community, promoting inclusivity and collaboration among local leaders.

Illinois Humanities offers General Operating Grants to support organizations dedicated to the humanities across Illinois. These grants empower cultural institutions, museums, and community organizations by providing unrestricted funds to enhance their sustainability and outreach. By fostering public engagement and dialogue, the initiative aims to address civic issues and promote inclusivity within historically under-resourced communities. With grants of up to $10,000, the program reinforces the importance of humanities in creating a just and connected society.

ConocoPhillips Charitable Investments focuses on enhancing math education in Houston to foster academic success and career readiness. Their initiatives include peer tutoring, teacher development, and partnerships with local organizations. The program aims to increase the number of students who pass Algebra 1 and graduate high school, thereby equipping them for college and future careers. They collaborate with schools and community organizations to create impactful educational opportunities for students and teachers alike.

The Shelburne Farms - Foundations in Education for Sustainability 2024 program offers a unique opportunity for educators to engage in a transformative experience focused on Education for Sustainability (EFS). Over five days, participants will collaborate with peers, develop personal projects, and learn from experts in the field. The program combines conference elements with hands-on workshops, fostering a rich environment for dialogue and reflection in a sustainable setting. Tuition and accommodation fees are covered by the CGC Scholarship.

The Community Impact Grants Program, administered by the Union County Foundation, invites competitive grant applications four times a year. This program aims to address the evolving needs of the community by providing seed funding for innovative projects rather than ongoing operational support. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations that serve Union County residents. The program encourages collaboration with other funding sources to enhance community impact and maximize funding effectiveness.

The Ste. Genevieve County Community Foundation aims to enhance local quality of life through resource development, community grantmaking, and public leadership. It emphasizes integrity, respect, leadership, and a long-term vision. The foundation focuses on supporting projects that meet community needs, particularly those that can demonstrate their impact on the region. Organizations seeking funding must provide proof of 501(c)(3) status and specify how their project will benefit Ste. Genevieve County.

Leo Layette Livingston

Leo L. Livingston was a devoted civic leader and local business man in the Taylor community, serving on the Johns Community Hospital until his retirement in February 1988. He served on the Johns Community Hospital board of directors for 21 years, including ten years in the capacity of board president. He is credited with having had a major influence in getting the current hospital built, both in fundraising and directing construction. Born in Winters, Texas on February 24, 1913, he and his wife first came to Taylor in 1940 with Texas Power and Light Company. He later served as an accountant at Taylor Refining Company and in 1949, he began his long-standing association with Southwestern Life Insurance Company. In 1957, he earned the designation as Charter Life Underwriter. From the onset, Leo Livingston immersed himself in community service having served as chairman of the Red Cross Drive, the Community Chest Drive, and was president during the organization's change to the United Fund in 1959. He served as president of the Taylor Chamber of Commerce in 1955 and was director of the Industrial Development and Greeters Committees of the Chamber. Mr. Livingston was also a past member, director and president of the Taylor Kiwanis Club and served as president of the Taylor Country Club. An active member of First United Methodist Church, Mr. Livingston served his church in numerous capacities including Sunday school superintendent, chairman of the church board, and various committees. In 1975 he was honored as Taylor's Outstanding Citizen by the Taylor Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Livingston served on the Taylor ISD Board of Education for five years and as its chairman, was involved with bond elections and the construction of the Taylor high school facility.

Leo L. Livingston Fund Benefiting Taylor, Texas Nonprofit Organizations

The Community Foundation of the Brazos Valley, headquartered in Bryan – Texas, administers a charitable endowment fund that was established in memory of Leo L. Livingston by Doris Livingston to benefit nonprofit organizations in the Taylor, Texas community. A local Grants Review Committee comprised of Taylor residents and business leaders is accepting applications from nonprofit organizations for grants up to $10,000 for programs that support the Livingston's goals of continually improving the quality of life in Taylor, Texas.

The Grants Review Committee will consider grants to:

• Support effective, established programs;
• Help launch innovative, new programs; or
• Fund unique capital needs that will increase an organization's capacity.

The Oris W. Dunham, Jr. and Sylvia M. Dunham Scholarship, offered by the AAAE Foundation, supports college students enrolled in aviation-related programs in the U.S. and Canada. Up to five non-renewable scholarships valued at $1,500 each will be awarded based on academic achievements, financial need, and community involvement. This initiative aims to foster future leaders in the aviation industry by providing financial assistance to deserving candidates.

The Community Foundation of Switzerland County offers Large Project Grants for charitable programs benefiting the local community, with requests exceeding $2,000. Applications are due by 3:00 p.m. on the first business day of March and August. These grants undergo an extensive evaluation process, requiring a meeting with the Grants Committee. Eligible projects must enhance community welfare, while ineligible items include general operating expenses and funding for individuals.

The Community Foundation of Switzerland County offers Leadership Grants to support staff and volunteers attending professional development events. These grants cover fees for workshops, conferences, and retreats, providing up to $1,500 per organization annually. Importantly, hotel accommodations may be included, but food and travel expenses are not covered. The program has no deadlines and continues until December 1, 2025, or until funds are exhausted, with decisions made within 15 days of submission.

Residential Fellowships

Fellowships offer scholars the time, space, and support they need to pursue their work and the opportunity to take part in the Center’s vibrant intellectual community.

The National Humanities Center’s Residential Fellowship is one of the most prestigious humanities fellowship programs in the world. Fellows enjoy a beautiful and serene space to write, unparalleled library and reference support, excellent dining services, and a stimulating and supportive intellectual community.

A key feature, meanwhile, that differentiates us from many other fellowships is our residential requirement. Researchers are especially encouraged to apply when they expect to benefit from, and actively contribute to, an in-person community of other humanities researchers. If you prefer a research fellowship that allows you to do field work or to work in your own local space, this may not be the fellowship for you.

To be considered for this program, applicants must select that their institution is an HBCU when prompted in the online application system to identify the type of institution with which they are affiliated. Applicants may apply for a residential fellowship for the fall semester (September through December), spring semester (January through May), or academic year (September through May).

The Waccamaw Community Trust Fund provides competitive grants of up to $5,000 to support initiatives that improve the lives of individuals and families in Horry and Georgetown counties. The Trust prioritizes projects that address emerging needs and foster innovative solutions, while encouraging sustainability beyond the grant period. Eligible organizations include public charities and government agencies that do not discriminate based on age, race, or disability. However, applications for certain purposes, such as political lobbying, are discouraged.

The Taylor County Charitable Interest Fund Grant supports philanthropic initiatives in Taylor County, West Virginia. Managed by the Your Community Foundation of North Central West Virginia, this grant is available to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations and public institutions, including schools. It aims to empower local donors to contribute to community welfare and address pressing social issues, ensuring that charitable funds are utilized effectively for the benefit of residents in the area.

At United Way, we believe that meaningful, lasting change happens when we work together. No single organization can solve complex community challenges alone, which is why United Way serves as a connector, convener, and catalyst by bringing together nonprofits, businesses, government agencies, foundations, and community members to build collective solutions.

Who we support and where 

We support low-income and other vulnerable groups of children, families, and older adults in 13 localities and over one million residents: the cities of Richmond, Petersburg, Hopewell, and Colonial Heights, and the counties of Charles City, Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, New Kent, Powhatan, and Prince George. Our extensive reach across multiple communities allows us to share innovations and scale solutions, improving lives throughout our region.  

Program Capacity Grants

Program Capacity grants are designed to support the launch of pilot programs or expand existing services with the aim of reducing duplicated services, supporting efficiency, and scaling proven solutions. Program Capacity grants have the following features:

• Program Capacity grants are 1-year awards
• Program Capacity grants are restricted funds that must be applied to a single specific program or targeted effort
• Program Capacity awards range between $10,000–$70,000

The Arizona Community Foundation of the Gila Valley is dedicated to fostering a culture of philanthropy to improve life in Graham and Greenlee counties. With over $3.5 million awarded since its inception in 1993, the foundation connects donors with local needs, supporting nonprofits, schools, and municipalities. By developing multiple funds with assets exceeding $1 million, ACF plays a crucial role in enhancing community welfare and promoting sustainable giving.

The FY26 US DOT Drone Infrastructure Inspection Grants (DIIG) Program aims to enhance the use of drones for critical infrastructure inspections by eligible government entities. With $9 million available, the program supports innovative drone technologies and prioritizes projects that improve safety and operational efficiency. Grant funds can be used for purchasing drone systems and contracting services. The federal share may reach up to 75% in certain cases, fostering collaboration and technological advancement in infrastructure management.

Berks County Community Foundation

Berks County Community Foundation was founded in 1994 to help individuals, families, organizations and businesses achieve their charitable objectives. Since that time, the foundation has grown to manage hundreds of charitable funds. Each year, the funds distribute millions of dollars in scholarships and grants to support local students and nonprofit organizations and causes.

Russell S. Bickel Fund

The Russell S. Bickel Family Fund of Berks County Community Foundation invites proposals from organizations, schools, nonprofits, and local businesses for innovative, community-based projects that create opportunities to open the conversation about death and dying. This funding opportunity seeks to support initiatives that foster dialogue, education, and reflection around this important topic in ways that are accessible, engaging, and culturally sensitive.

This grant opportunity is designed to encourage creative approaches to exploring death and dying in community settings. Projects may include, but are not limited to:

•  Speaker series or lecture events
•  Seminars or workshops
•  Community storytelling or oral history projects
•  Educational campaigns 

Preference will be given to innovative and community-based projects.

The General BSCF Grant - Community Mini-Grant supports community-based programs and services aimed at enhancing community growth. Funded by the Bethel Community Services Foundation, grants are available in various sizes. Eligibility requires organizations to have tax-exempt status or be a public agency. The Foundation prioritizes collaborative projects and those addressing unmet community needs, while excluding funding for political activities, lobbying, and discriminatory organizations.

The Andersons Charitable Fund, managed by the Albion Community Foundation, supports general charitable activities in the greater Albion area. With a maximum grant request of $1,000, this fund aims to enhance community assets and quality of life. Eligible applicants include nonprofit public charities and faith institutions serving the area, provided they meet specific criteria. The foundation has a strong commitment to community improvement, cultural heritage, and youth development.

The Statistics Program, funded by the National Science Foundation, promotes research in statistical theory and methods applicable across various scientific and engineering domains. It supports projects ranging from individual investigators to interdisciplinary teams, fostering advancements in data collection, analysis, and interpretation. The program emphasizes the importance of statistical methods in modeling uncertainty and enhancing scientific discovery. For more information, please visit the NSF's official website.

The United States Studies Centre Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Sydney invites applications from scholars in humanities and social sciences. This opportunity includes a $40,000 USD stipend, mentorship, and research collaboration. Applicants must be American citizens or permanent residents, hold a recent PhD, and demonstrate relevant research strengths. The application period is from July 25 to September 30, providing a chance to engage in impactful academic work related to American studies.

The First Horizon Foundation (New York) focuses on strengthening community pillars through targeted contributions. Key areas of support include enhancing community well-being, promoting financial futures, fostering leadership development, enriching the arts, and advocating for sustainability. Grants are available for eligible organizations within New York City, while individuals and certain organizations, such as K-12 schools and solely religious groups, are ineligible. Prioritizing impactful initiatives reflects the foundation's commitment to community growth.

First Northern Bank has a long-standing commitment to community support, donating over $2 million and encouraging employees to volunteer extensively. Since 1910, the bank has contributed to local charities through monetary and in-kind donations, sponsorships, and extensive volunteer efforts. It supports organizations with a 501(c)3 designation within its service areas and considers requests of up to $5,000, focusing on community impact and reputation.

The Benton County Philanthropic Society Grantmaking Program, managed by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, aims to enhance community well-being through strategic grantmaking. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 organizations serving Benton County, focusing on innovative solutions to priority needs. In 2025, the program offers a total grant budget of $50,000, with a maximum request of $25,000. Collaboration among applicants is encouraged, fostering a spirit of community engagement and leadership.