Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Healthy Forest Initiative Grant, funded by the State of Arizona and USDA Forest Service, aims to enhance fire prevention, protect critical infrastructure, and restore forests and watersheds. With approximately $1.5 million available, grants up to $500,000 will support projects on various lands. Eligible applicants include local governments, nonprofits, and educational institutions. Priority will be given to projects aligned with community wildfire protection plans and those that have not received prior treatments.

The Jonathan Ed Hara Scholarship Fund, established in 2020 in honor of a dedicated fire emergency medical specialist, supports Hawaii Island high school graduates pursuing degrees in Fire Science or Mobile Intensive Care Technician. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher. Preference is given to previous recipients and those studying in fire-related fields. This initiative fosters educational opportunities for future leaders in emergency services.

The Jim and Margie Fegley Orchestral String Scholarship Fund, established in 2013 by Marjorie Fegley, honors her late husband, James E. Fegley. This fund supports Berks County residents pursuing music education, particularly in orchestral strings. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and have participated in music programs. The Berks County Community Foundation manages this fund, which contributes significantly to the local arts and education landscape, fostering musical talent in the community.

The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Program, established in 1964, aims to protect natural areas and provide recreational opportunities across the U.S. Funded by offshore oil and gas leasing revenues, the program supports state and local governments in acquisitions and developments for public outdoor recreation. Administered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the program has funded over 44,000 projects, enhancing parks, trails, and recreational facilities while ensuring sustainable use of natural resources.

Fatherhood Request for Proposal (RFP)

This application packet contains guidelines for submitting an application to ADCANP for a performance-based contract to provide opportunities to families with custodial fathers and mothers. Activities (training, workshops, conferences, counseling, etc.) should encourage and facilitate active parenting by non-custodial fathers/mothers. The goals are to increase the parents’ involvement in their children’s lives, provide employment training and skills, and increase child support payments/collection. Federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds for this competitive selection process are provided to ADCANP through a partnership with the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR).

The target population for Fatherhood Programs should include (but are not limited to) non-custodial and custodial mothers and fathers who:

• Are unemployed or underemployed (income less than 200% of the federal poverty level)
• Lack a high school diploma or GED
• Lack the skills to obtain gainful employment
• Males or females over the age of 18 with children
• Reside in the state of Alabama

The TANF funds available for these initiatives will address the following goals:

• To gain employment skills and certifications that will allow participants to secure employment
• that can provide for the family and promote self-sufficiency
• To find and retain suitable employment
• To improve awareness of participants’ roles in the lives of their child(ren)
• To establish high-quality, emotionally supportive relationships with their children
• To pay child support and provide other financial support for their child(ren)
• To support Re-Entry services for formerly incarcerated parents

Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services

Our mission is to be a diverse and inclusive organization providing programs, services and supports that protect and promote the health and well-being of all Kentuckians and their communities.

Rural Health Transformation Program Funding Opportunity For Public Health Dental Hygiene Teams in Local Health Departments 

About the Program

This project is 100% funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for a total of $212.9 million in budget year 1 with 100% by CMS/HHS. The RHTF grant spans five budget periods aligned with federal fiscal years (FY2026–FY2030). Funding is disbursed annually by CMS based on achievement of performance metrics.

The Commonwealth of Kentucky has been awarded funding through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Rural Health Transformation Fund (RHTF). This investment will empower Kentucky to launch and implement its Rural Health Transformation Plan (RHTP) — a community-driven strategy to expand access and improve health outcomes for rural residents across the Commonwealth.

Rooted in Health: Rural Dental Access

A key component of Kentucky’s Rooted in Health: Rural Dental Access initiative involves expansion of the PHDH teams that have been serving multiple counties in Kentucky since 2013. Through this grant opportunity, the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is soliciting applications from qualified organizations to establish new or expand current PHDH teams to expand access to rural dental care. The newly created programs must demonstrate commitment to providing services including:

• Preventive dental hygiene services for children and adults
• Dental hygiene-focused oral health services for residents of long-term care settings as defined in Kentucky’s Dental Practice Act KRS 216B
• Teledentistry-enabled preventive care, education, triage, and care coordination

Program Objectives

Funded PHDH programs must demonstrate their willingness and ability to:

• Increase access to school-based preventive dental hygiene services for all students, regardless of ability to pay.
• Deliver dental hygiene services in long term care facilities through teledentistry consultation with university dentists.
• Utilize teledentistry to expand access to care, improve quality and continuity of care, and enable more rural residents to stay in region for dental care and specialty consultations.
• Integrate Community Health Workers (CHWs) and/or social determinants of health (SDOH) screenings to support patient navigation and continuity of care.
• Achieve measurable improvements in oral health outcomes and service utilization.
• Operate in a cost-effective, sustainable, and compliant manner. Compliance is defined as adherence to the provision of hygiene services to the aboveidentified populations within KRS 313. 

The Hawkins Family Foundation Grant supports diverse non-profit initiatives including healthcare, education, and community development. Primarily funding organizations in Chattanooga, Dublin/Columbus, and Tampa Bay, it requires applicants to be 501(c)(3) public charities or have fiscal sponsors with this status. This grant aims to uplift local communities and enhance the quality of life through various supportive programs.

The Bonnell Cove Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in North America focused on safety at sea and marine environmental initiatives. With a funding limit of $10,000, it prioritizes well-defined projects that can be evaluated for impact. Proposals are accepted biannually, with deadlines on February 1 and September 1 for March and October reviews, respectively. The Foundation seeks innovative solutions for personal safety equipment and environmental stewardship, emphasizing projects that promote sustainable practices in marine operations.

The Patterson Family Foundation offers funding for advanced and specialized course access, aiming to enhance educational opportunities for rural students in Kansas and western Missouri. Organizations can apply after registering through the Grants Portal. The foundation focuses on collaborative initiatives that ensure thriving rural communities by providing essential resources like dual-credit and STEM courses. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, school districts, or government entities, while projects outside the foundation's catchment area are ineligible.

The Patterson Family Foundation supports healthcare workforce development in rural communities across Kansas and western Missouri. The foundation encourages programs that enhance education, licensure, and retention of healthcare professionals. Organizations must register for grant consideration, and eligibility includes being a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or government entity. The foundation's mission focuses on strategic initiatives to ensure rural communities thrive, emphasizing collaboration and investment in essential services.

The Peter R. Stettenheim Service Award, established by the American Ornithological Society in 2018, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to ornithology and the society. This award recognizes those who have served in various capacities, highlighting volunteer work, mentorship, and committee involvement. It is named after Peter Stettenheim, a notable leader in ornithology, who was dedicated to advancing the field and supporting fellow ornithologists throughout his career.

The Richard and Mary Myerly Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, supports low-income students pursuing careers in photography or fine arts at accredited institutions. Established in memory of Richard and Mary Myerly, this scholarship invites applications from students in Washington County and surrounding areas, promoting educational opportunities and honoring community values. With over 100 scholarships available, this initiative aims to empower the next generation of artists and photographers.

The CDBGPF Design, Engineering, and Environmental Clearance (DEEC) Grant, administered by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, supports local governments in enhancing community infrastructure. This grant assists eligible applicants with vital design, engineering, and environmental clearance activities for projects that benefit low to moderate income communities. Projects can include water systems, community centers, and more, aimed at fostering development and addressing urgent community needs.

The Hathaway Family Foundation Grant aims to enhance the lives of individuals in need within Greenville, South Carolina. This private foundation focuses on improving food security, access to quality healthcare, conservation efforts, and addressing homelessness. By supporting organizations that provide temporary shelters, mental health care, and food distribution, the foundation ensures targeted assistance for the most vulnerable populations. The foundation's commitment reflects a dedication to fostering community well-being and positive change.

The Peters Charitable Foundation Grant, established in 2014, aims to support organizations serving Brazos County, Texas, with a focus on education, health, and human services. Applications are accepted year-round, with a July 31 deadline for fall review. The foundation prioritizes funding specific projects rather than general operational needs, with an average annual giving of $50,000. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and submit applications through the designated online form.

The Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund (KADF) offers the County Agricultural Investment Program (CAIP) to support agricultural producers in enhancing their farm operations. This program provides cost-share assistance up to $5,000 for various agricultural enterprises, including livestock, horticulture, and energy efficiency initiatives. CAIP aims to improve the diversity and sustainability of farming practices across Kentucky, benefiting producers through financial support for innovative agricultural practices.

The Altrusa International Grant, managed by the Madison Community Foundation, supports projects that empower children and youth in education, aid workforce reintegration, and encourage lifelong learning. Established in 1942, the foundation has a mission to foster a generous community through impactful charitable giving. Grants range from $1,000 to $5,000, with an average of $1,200, aimed at making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals in Madison and Dane County.

The Worcester County Food Bank Fund to End Hunger, established in 2011, aims to support nonprofit organizations dedicated to eradicating hunger in Worcester County. It focuses on increasing access to healthy foods, enhancing the capacity of food-serving organizations, and advocating for policy changes that benefit marginalized communities. Eligible applicants include all 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving this area, while individuals and businesses are not supported. This grant encourages collaboration with the Hunger-Free Network.

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency is inviting proposals for watershed-based planning projects aimed at addressing nonpoint source pollution. This initiative seeks to improve water quality in Illinois by preventing, eliminating, and reducing impairments to surface and groundwater. Funded through federal funds under Section 319(h) of the Clean Water Act, eligible projects may include the development and updating of watershed plans, technical assistance, and educational outreach efforts.

The Dale Jr. Foundation is dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through targeted support in five key areas: Empowerment, Education, Wellness, Hunger, and Hope. By providing safe homes, educational resources, and healthy food, the foundation helps children overcome adversity and achieve their dreams. Their commitment extends to various charities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. The foundation emphasizes community support and holistic care, making a significant impact in the lives of many young people.

The WV Forest Legacy Grant Program aims to conserve vital forest areas in West Virginia that are at risk of being transformed into non-forest land. Through a conservation easement, property owners can sell or donate their development rights while retaining other ownership rights. The program operates on a 75:25 matching basis, with the West Virginia Division of Forestry managing the conservation easements to ensure that these lands continue to function as working forests.

The Society for Reproduction and Fertility offers Travel Grants for its members to support attendance at relevant conferences and meetings in reproductive biology. Grants vary by distance traveled: up to £250 for less than 1000 km, up to £500 for 1000-3000 km, and up to £750 for over 3000 km. Applicants must be members for at least 24 months and have paid membership for two consecutive years to qualify. Retrospective applications are not accepted.

The H2Ohio Rivers Initiative: Chloride Reduction Grants support Ohio municipalities, townships, villages, and counties in adopting best management practices to reduce chloride from deicers impacting water resources. Grants, up to $75,000, aim to improve storage and application of road salt to protect aquatic ecosystems. The program addresses the growing concern of chloride pollution in Ohio's waterways by funding necessary equipment and facilities, promoting collaboration among local governments to maximize impact.

The Ornis Birding x Lost Birds Expedition Grant aims to inspire skilled young birders, aged 18-30, to explore remote regions and rediscover species that have evaded scientific detection for over a decade. Funded by Ornis Birding Expeditions, this grant offers up to $5,000 for innovative expeditions, encouraging participants to submit detailed observations and engage with local communities. The initiative seeks to fill critical gaps in ornithological knowledge while promoting conservation and ecotourism.

The AISES Stellantis Scholarship aims to enhance the representation of Indigenous peoples in STEM fields. Funded by Stellantis, this scholarship offers $20,000 for full-time students enrolled in colleges with Mopar Career Automotive Programs. Eligible candidates must be current AISES members and either enrolled citizens or descendants of recognized Indigenous groups. The program not only supports education but also fosters a diverse and inclusive workforce within the automotive industry.

NAFC Open Grant/Product Donation Applications

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality healthcare and strives to be a national voice promoting quality healthcare for all. For more information about the NAFC, including how to become a member, please visit https://www.nafcclinics.org.

NAFC Capacity Fund

The NAFC Capacity Fund supports investments that strengthen clinic and pharmacy infrastructure and organizational effectiveness. This funding is designed to help NAFC members build the systems, tools, and capabilities needed to operate more efficiently, improve quality, and expand their ability to serve patients over time.

Better Beaches Grant Program

Since 2008, Save the Harbor/Save the Bay has partnered with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) to award small grants to local organizations and artists to activate the region’s public beaches through free events and programs on DCR beaches in Nahant, Lynn, Revere, Winthrop, East Boston, South Boston, Dorchester, Quincy, and Hull. 

The goal of the Better Beaches Grant Program is to give decision-making power directly to community members over community spaces. We do this by allocating state funds to organizations and individuals to host free events and programs on public beaches. It creates opportunities for people who may not already be visiting the beach, or who face barriers to accessing the beach, to enjoy these shared waterfront spaces. 

Whether you are part of an organization, collective, or are a creative individual with a vision for a more diverse and activated waterfront, the Better Beaches Grant Program may be for you! Grant applicants can come from any community, so long as their proposed event takes place on one of our region’s public DCR beaches from Nahant down to Hull. 

For the 2026 beach season, we will be allocating over $300,000 in small grants ranging from $2,500 – $8,500 per grantee.

What we fund?

The Better Beaches Grant Program supports a diverse range of public events and programs that celebrate and engage communities on Boston Harbor beaches. 

Grant funds must go toward events and programs that: 

• Are FREE to the public
• Take place on DCR public beaches and beachfront parks. For a full list of which beaches and beach-front parks, see below. 
• Happen between June 1 – September 30, 2026

Better Beaches grant funds can support a wide variety of events, including: youth and family fun days, cultural festivals, science and learning programs, music and dance events, kayaking, swimming, fishing, book groups and literacy programs, community resources, art classes and markets, self-care and wellness events, fitness and sports classes, and more. Get creative! Projects may be one-time events, a series, or recurring gatherings.