Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

Private Well Protection Grant

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) received funding from the Clean Water Fund to provide testing and outreach to private well users. A portion of this funding is available through grants aimed at increasing private drinking water well testing among households that rely on private wells for drinking water. Eligible entities may apply for funding to support activities that promote and provide well water testing within their communities.

Over 1.1 million Minnesotans across Minnesota have fewer safeguards because they use a private well. Unlike their peers connected to public water, private well users are responsible for voluntarily protecting and testing their well and addressing water quality issues. MDH received funding from the Clean Water Fund to ensure safe drinking water for private well users. A portion of this funding is being offered as grants to promote private well testing among private well users. Each entity will have the opportunity to apply for up to a predetermined amount of funds to promote well testing for households that rely on private well water for drinking water that will include testing for five common contaminants (arsenic, coliform bacteria, lead, manganese, and nitrate). This will be an iterative and communicative process in which grantees will work with MDH to carry out the grant goals. Entities can submit a shared proposal that adds each entity’s predetermined amount together.

The James G. Cooper Early Professional Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, celebrates the achievements of early-career ornithologists. Awardees receive a certificate, a $1,500 honorarium, and free registration to the annual meeting, where they can present their research. Candidates are evaluated based on their CV and a mini-paper. This award aims to promote ethical research practices and leadership in ornithology, fostering a diverse and dynamic community of scientists dedicated to bird conservation.

New Mexico Health Care Authority

The New Mexico Health Care Authority is a new agency that launched on July 1, 2024. This groundbreaking development is the result of merging the New Mexico Human Services Department, the State Employee Benefits team from the General Services Department, and the Developmental Disabilities Supports Division and Division of Health Improvement from the New Mexico Department of Health, and the Health Care Affordability Fund from the Office of Superintendent of Insurance.

This marks a significant milestone for the people of New Mexico as this new agency will work toward our vision of providing health care and safety net services to all New Mexicans.

The New Mexico Health Care Authority will leverage purchasing power, partnerships and data analytics to create innovative policies and models of comprehensive coverage for New Mexicans.

Graduate Medical Expansion Grant

The New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA) will award $1 million in grant funding to establish or expand residency programs and support primary care workforce beginning July 1, 2026. Award amounts will depend upon the number of applications received, overall funding, and availability of funds.

Funding will be awarded to applications that align with three key strategies:

• Establish new or expanding existing primary care GME residency programs by creating new first-year residency positions;
• Sustain existing primary care residency programs that maintain access to care in underserved areas or with underserved populations; and
• Develop new primary care workforce training pathways (nursing, physician assistant, or dental residency programs).

This funding opportunity is supported through the Primary Care Physician Training Expansion as authorized in House Bill 480.

The Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust oversees the HOME Program Emergency Solutions Grant to address homelessness through a comprehensive Continuum of Care system. This program focuses on developing housing solutions for various priority sub-populations, including chronic homeless individuals and families. By leveraging funding for rental housing development, the initiative aims to provide sustainable housing and support services to eligible participants, ensuring that homelessness is rare, brief, and one-time.

Department of Health and Human Services

DHHS is the largest agency in New Hampshire state government, responsible for the health, safety and well-being of the citizens of New Hampshire. DHHS provides services for individuals, children, families and seniors, and administers programs and services such as mental health, developmental disability, substance misuse, and public health. This is accomplished through partnerships with families, community groups, private providers, other state and local government entities, and many citizens throughout the State who help make New Hampshire a special place in which to live.

RFP-2027-DPH-03-INSUR (DoIT #2026-047): Insurance Benefit and Medical Claims Management for Clients Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health is seeking responses to this Request for Proposals (RFP) from qualified Vendors to provide insurance benefit and medical claim management services on behalf of individuals living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) who are enrolled in the New Hampshire CARE Program (NH CARE). 

The Alabama Nonpoint Source Section 319 Implementation Grants support projects aimed at reducing nonpoint source pollution and enhancing water quality in Alabama. Eligible applicants include state agencies, local governments, and non-profits with active System for Award Management registration. Projects must implement existing watershed-based plans and ensure a minimum 40% non-federal match. This competitive grant process fosters sustainable environmental practices and compliance with EPA guidelines.

The Tri-City Community Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Foley, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach by funding local nonprofits. Established in 2018, this grant supports initiatives in arts, mental health, education, and economic opportunity. Eligible organizations must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) entities serving the Tri-City community. The Foundation prioritizes proposals that demonstrate community support and articulate measurable outcomes, with a total of $25,100 available for the grant cycle.

Our Mission

Our mission is to serve as the connection between our community and public education, evaluating needs and securing resources to enhance the quality of education.

Originally established in 1987 as the Dial-A-Teacher program in Lake County, Florida, by local business leaders in collaboration with the Lake County School District. The primary objective was to provide homework assistance to students, particularly those facing academic challenges. In 1988, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization was renamed the Education Foundation of Lake County, Inc. This rebranding marked a broader commitment to enhancing public education in the community. Today, the foundation continues to serve as a vital link between the community and public education, offering various programs and initiatives to support students and educators throughout Lake County. We are a member of the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations.

Teacher Grants

Each year, the Education Foundation funds projects that directly support students, teachers and classrooms in the Lake County School District. We’re especially excited to back initiatives focused on:

• Career & technical education
• Graduation and literacy improvement
• Financial education
• STEM programs
• Support for struggling students

Are you a teacher or support staff member with an innovative project idea that needs funding? The Education Foundation works with our community of supporters to help make that idea a reality. Through our easy-to-use online grant application, educators are encouraged to submit their proposed ideas to secure funding. 

For grants over $2,000, applicants need to get approval from their Principal and the Superintendent (or her designee). 

For Curriculum or Capital Expenses? Get approval by your Media Specialist and Principal.

The Nearshore Marine Resource Conservation Grant, offered by the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation, seeks to enhance Hawaii's coastal ecosystems through collaborative governance. This grant focuses on reducing land-based pollution, improving resource management capacity, and fostering community engagement. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and public schools serving Hawaii. The foundation emphasizes measurable outcomes, aiming for substantial increases in managed marine areas and effective governance practices to assure long-term sustainability for future generations.

The THCF: Community Grants for Wildlife Conservation supports initiatives across Missouri, encouraging proposals that enhance regional wildlife efforts. Starting in 2024, organizations can apply for funding for up to three consecutive years, promoting sustainability and impactful conservation projects. Eligible applicants include nonprofits dedicated to improving wildlife habitats and conservation strategies. This program aims to foster collaboration and maximize funding impacts to benefit the local ecosystem and communities throughout the state.

The Nesting Bird Habitat Incentive Program (NBHIP) supports the restoration and maintenance of habitats for nesting waterfowl and game birds on public lands. Established in 2018, it is funded through hunting validation fees, generating approximately $2 million annually. For FY 2025-26, up to $850,000 is allocated for habitat projects, divided into maintenance of existing perennial grass ($150,000) and restoration/enhancement of habitats ($700,000), promoting biodiversity and ecological health.

The Green Acres State Land Acquisition Program, managed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, focuses on acquiring land for open space from property owners. It aims to preserve areas designated for recreation and conservation, integrating these lands into state parks, forests, and wildlife management areas. The program collaborates with various DEP divisions to ensure effective land management, and it accepts donations and bequests to enhance public access to natural resources.

The J. Larry Landers Student Research Award, offered by the Gopher Tortoise Council, provides funding for undergraduate and graduate students conducting research on gopher tortoise biology or upland habitat conservation. With an average award of $1,000, applicants must submit a four-page proposal, including project details and a budget. This grant aims to support original student-led research within the southeastern U.S., where the gopher tortoise is native, thus promoting vital ecological studies.

The FY26 Bureau of Land Management Invasive and Noxious Plant Management program focuses on preventing and controlling invasive species that threaten public lands and native plant communities. These invasive plants impose significant economic burdens and disrupt ecosystems. The program aims to enhance detection, rapid response, and education on invasive species, while also promoting rehabilitation efforts and biological control to protect valuable resources on public lands.

The Lifetime Contribution to the AAAAI and Allergy/Immunology Specialty Award honors individuals who have made significant and enduring contributions to the AAAAI and the allergy/immunology field. Awardees are recognized for exemplary service, leadership in professional organizations, impactful research, and mentorship of trainees. This prestigious accolade underscores the recipient's dedication to advancing the specialty and improving patient care, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and leadership in the field.

The Kalamazoo Valley Chapter's Stanley Weber Projects Fund honors a dedicated member by supporting projects that enhance coldwater fisheries and their habitats. Offering grants up to $5,000 annually, the fund prioritizes non-profit initiatives that foster conservation, restoration, and public education while promoting volunteer engagement. Recognition through plaques or media announcements is requested for grant recipients, ensuring the legacy of Stanley Weber continues to impact the community positively.

The Jana Trust Fund Grant supports early career biologists in sub-Saharan Africa with projects focused on the conservation of endangered mammals, particularly elephants. Grants of up to 1,500 euros are available for research and related expenses, including travel to conferences. Applications are accepted year-round, with funding awarded in three cycles each year. Successful applicants can reapply after 12 months. This initiative honors Jana's legacy by promoting vital conservation efforts.

The Loye and Alden Miller Research Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, recognizes lifetime achievements in ornithological research. It honors the legacy of Loye Holmes Miller and his son Alden Holmes Miller, who significantly contributed to the field and mentored numerous students. This prestigious award aims to uphold high ethical standards in ornithology and is open to current AOS members, promoting a diverse and supportive community in bird conservation.

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services

Iowa HHS provides high quality programs and services that protect and improve the health and resiliency of individuals, families, and communities.

Maternal Health Hub and Spoke

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (the Agency) is providing this notice of intent to release a request for proposal (RFP) on or around July 2026, for Maternal Health Hub and Spoke networks. This procurement is for establishing the framework for hub and spoke networks of care for the delivery of maternal health care in Iowa. The Agency anticipates successful applicants will be required to complete some activities related to behavioral health care for the maternal health population.

The Agency anticipates that this work may include forming rural provider strategic partnerships, advancing telehealth, establishing referral networks and agreements (particularly among non-affiliated provider organizations), provider recruitment, equipment purchases and associated minor renovations, and other funds needed to establish or advance the provision of maternal health care at hub and spoke sites. Please see the Agency’s Rural Health Transformation Grant website (Rural Health Transformation (RHT) | Health & Human Services) for additional information about the Healthy Hometowns initiative.

The Housing and Urban Development Competitive Grant from the Louisville-Jefferson County Metro Government aims to support non-profit organizations in their efforts to reduce homelessness. Funded through federal sources such as CDBG, ESG, and HOPWA, this initiative has allocated over $3 million in the past year to enhance services for individuals facing homelessness or living with HIV/AIDS. Organizations are encouraged to propose funding solutions that align with these critical community needs.

The Norm Winn Memorial Conservation Grant, managed by the Keta Legacy Foundation, supports conservation, preservation, and restoration projects in Alaska, Montana, Oregon, Idaho, and Eastern Washington. This competitive grant encourages non-profit organizations to apply for up to $25,000 to implement innovative environmental initiatives. Applicants must demonstrate project feasibility and significant community impact, while ensuring their proposals align with the Foundation's commitment to supporting diverse conservation efforts.

Workforce Pilot

The Maine Jobs and Recovery Plan provides $5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to the Maine Department of Transportation to support local, regional, and state workforce transportation pilot projects, especially in rural areas. Administered by MaineDOT’s Bureau of Planning, the department’s Workforce Transportation Pilot program is a competitive grant program that provides funds to support other workforce transportation pilot projects around the state. Funds may be used for capital and operating costs, including program start-up costs.

The Bureau of Planning anticipates a $750,000 award cap; however, that award cap is subject to change based on need and volume of applications. MaineDOT reserves the right to negotiate project scope and deliverables prior to finalizing awards. There is no minimum or maximum number of awards. Projects will be selected based on merit and the availability of funding.

While there is no application deadline, applicants are encouraged to submit projects as soon as possible. The Bureau of Planning will accept, evaluate, and make decisions on grant applications on an ongoing, rolling basis until all funds have been disbursed. In its evaluation process and awarding of funds, MaineDOT will consider that some applicants will be able to apply for funds sooner than others. In general, awarded projects should begin within four months of contract execution. This requirement can be waived based on circumstances as described by the applicant.

While projects may support transportation of workers from rural areas to more urban areas or centers of employment, the focus is on workforce transportation in rural areas. As such, some funds will be targeted specifically to connecting workers in rural areas to employment opportunities in rural areas.

Federal guidance provides that funds may be used to respond to COVID-19’s negative economic impacts on the tourism, travel, and hospitality industries. Other identified industries suffering comparable economic impacts include healthcare and social assistance; construction, trade, and logistics; manufacturing; education; agriculture, fishing, and forestry; information; and clean energy. Applicants must demonstrate that they are addressing challenges in these industries. Proposed initiatives must focus on workers and potential workers in these key industry sectors. MaineDOT staff will work with potential applicants to ensure that any proposals meet these requirements.

Applications may be submitted by employers or groups of employers, municipalities, non-profit organizations, human service organizations, and public/private transportation providers. Applicants are encouraged to engage with potential partners including, but not limited to, regional planning organizations, chambers of commerce and other business groups, county governments, workforce boards, and community action programs.

The Emergency Shelter Grants program was established by the Homeless Housing Act of 1986 in response to the growing issue of homelessness in the United States. The Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) program was created to replace the Emergency Shelter Grants program when the Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing (HEARTH) Act was signed into law on May 20, 2009. The ESG Program is designed to support sheltered and unsheltered homeless persons, as well as those at risk of homelessness, by providing the services necessary to help those persons to regain stability quickly in permanent housing after experiencing a housing crisis and/or homelessness. 

The Research Foundation of the ASCRS offers the Limited Project Grant to support innovative research in colon and rectal surgery. With funding up to $25,000 for one year, this grant aims to foster investigator-initiated, hypothesis-driven projects conducted in the U.S. or Canada. Successful applicants may secure further funding from national agencies. ASCRS membership is required for principal investigators, ensuring a dedicated approach to advancing colorectal health and surgical techniques.

The Aerie Real Foundation™ Community Grant aims to enhance confidence, inclusion, and sustainability among young women while supporting non-profit organizations in the US and Canada. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to programs focused on mental well-being, fostering inclusive communities, and environmental protection. Applications are accepted from certified 501c3 nonprofits, with funding allocated for projects that align with the Foundation's mission. The goal is to empower the next generation and create a positive impact in local communities.

The Eugene Salvati, MD, Limited Project Grant, offered by the Research Foundation of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, supports clinical research in colorectal surgery. This grant aims to honor Dr. Salvati's legacy by funding innovative projects that improve patient care. With a maximum funding of $25,000 for one year, it emphasizes investigator-initiated research conducted within the U.S. or Canada, encouraging collaboration among ASCRS members and adherence to ethical review board protocols.

The Reinberger Foundation offers Human Service Grants to support organizations helping underserved individuals achieve self-sufficiency and community enrichment. Priority is given to those who have received funding in the past five years. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and serve within Ohio, particularly in Cuyahoga and Franklin counties. The foundation focuses on critical areas such as housing stability, food insecurity, and family violence.