Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Marlène and Paolo Fresco Fellowship provides a six-month residential opportunity for post-doctoral scholars focused on cultural exchanges between Africa and the Mediterranean from 1250-1750. With a monthly stipend of USD 5,200 and relocation support, the fellowship requires residency in Florence and emphasizes original research in African history. Applicants must hold a PhD and be fluent in English, Italian, or French, ensuring a solid foundation in early modern global exchanges.

The Nonprofit Leadership Grant Program by the Black United Fund of Oregon aims to empower BIPOC-led grassroots organizations through a $10,000 grant and a year-long leadership curriculum. This program focuses on developing essential skills in fund development, operations, and marketing. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and serve BIPOC communities in Oregon and SW Washington, with a net income below $600,000, ensuring support for those most in need.

Strake Foundation

Following in the footsteps of our founders and their deep commitment to Catholic faith and American values, our principles are guided by a fundamental belief in traditional Christian teaching, individual dignity, equality of opportunity, self-sufficiency, hard work, and faithful formation.

Based on this vision, Strake Foundation pursues a mission to support conservative Catholic causes, preserve the heritage of George W. Strake and his family, educate individuals and communities in truth, and care for those who are ailing — honoring a legacy of integrity and generous stewardship that spans more than seventy years.

Grant Application

Organizations whose mission aligns with the Foundation’s traditional Catholic values and donor intent are welcome to submit an application. 

Strake Foundation generally adheres to a schedule of 3 meetings per year, in February, July, and November. Grants are restricted to qualified nonprofit organizations holding tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. .

Donor Intent Guidelines

The Board of Directors adheres strictly to the following Donor Intent Guidelines, listed in order of priority:

• Judeo-Christian Religious Organizations: With priority given to Catholic institutions.
• Hospitals and Medical Research: With priority given to women’s health and pro-life causes.
• Private Secondary and Higher Education: With priority given to institutions aligned with Item 1 above.
• U.S. Military Support, Free Market Principles, and Individual Liberty: Organizations advancing these causes.
• Poverty and Homelessness Initiatives: With priority given to Harris County.
• Civic and Cultural Organizations: With priority given to Houston, and secondary consideration to Austin, Dallas, and the broader state of Texas.

The Kiwanis Homestead Early Risers Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides $500 scholarships to Beatrice High School graduating seniors. Awards are available for those attending four-year institutions, pursuing vocational careers in plumbing, welding, line work, electrician, or nursing, and those enrolling at Southeast Community College. Selection criteria include financial need, volunteerism, and academic performance, supporting students' educational aspirations and professional development.

The Men & Boys' Fund Grant, established in 2016, aims to enhance the lives of men and boys in Connecticut's Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington, and Wolcott areas. Grants support nonprofit organizations focused on education, health, leadership, and workforce readiness. Eligible applicants must serve males of any age and provide strong documentation of community impact. The Fund prioritizes self-sufficiency and requires follow-up reports from previous grantees to ensure continued support and accountability.

The Robert L. Schattner Scholarship Fund, managed by the Jewish Community Foundation, offers financial support to Jewish students from Burlington, Camden, or Gloucester Counties who are pursuing higher education. Eligible candidates must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. The scholarship can be applied towards tuition, books, or living expenses. This initiative aims to foster educational advancement within the Jewish community, encouraging students to achieve their academic goals.

The TFF Capacity Building Grant supports nonprofit organizations, schools, and government agencies in Illinois, helping them strengthen their operational effectiveness. Grants can fund a variety of projects, including professional development and strategic planning. Organizations are required to contribute 10% of the requested amount in cash. This grant aims to enhance organizational impact, enabling recipients to deliver more effective programs and pursue new opportunities.

The Douglas Bomford Trust provides post-graduate research funding aimed at enhancing engineering and physical sciences in agriculture and related fields. It supports individuals committed to sustainable practices that benefit the environment and society. Applicants must demonstrate long-term dedication, pursue other funding sources, and show how the grant will achieve significant outcomes. A link to the UK through nationality or residency is essential, ensuring that projects align with the Trust's charitable objectives.

The Curry Family Foundation Grant aims to support local non-profit organizations working to enhance the lives of endangered children and disadvantaged individuals. It offers funding for program development, operational expenses, equipment and building renovations, and matching funds. Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations in the Kansas City metropolitan area, with specific ineligibilities including capital campaigns and discrimination based on race, creed, or other factors.

The Glastonbury Greater Together Community Fund invites applications for annual grants up to $5,000 aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Glastonbury, CT. Nonprofits and town resident groups can apply for funding to support innovative initiatives, improve access to programs, and address critical community needs. All projects must be inclusive and benefit local residents, fostering collaboration for greater impact within the community.

Grants

We’re Here to Support You

HAF+WRCF grant funding supports charitable programs and projects in our region (Humboldt, Del Norte, and Trinity counties in California, and Curry County, Oregon).

Aging to Thrive: Empowering Aging Through Community '26-27

This grant opportunity supports programs that uplift and enhance the independence and quality of life for seniors in Humboldt and Del Norte Counties. Examples include social programs, food and nutrition programs, health related activities and needs, transportation and access support. 

Grants of $2,000-5,000 available.

Grants are supported by the Senior Citizens Foundation Fund and the Andrew and Bertha Pon Memorial Fund. Recipients will be notified in November 2026.

The Penn National Gaming Foundation Grants support various community initiatives across North America, emphasizing education, health services, and cultural affairs. Launched post-Hurricane Katrina, the foundation aids local nonprofits, enhancing community development, public safety, and veteran support. The grants cater to organizations that address the needs of children, senior citizens, and disadvantaged populations, ensuring a broad impact in areas where Penn National Gaming operates. This commitment reflects the foundation's dedication to uplifting communities and fostering resilience.

Who we are

For more than a century, Philadelphia Foundation has increased philanthropic investment in the community, fostering the economic, civic and social vitality of Greater Philadelphia.

We take charitable dollars further through our deep relationships in the community, close connections with local nonprofits and 100-year history of building positive outcomes in the Philadelphia region.

Born of a desire for more powerful, permanent funding to address community needs, we collaborate with thousands of individuals, families and businesses to advance this goal, always with an eye on the future. As we enter our second century of service, our vision remains grounded in the needs of today and tomorrow and is shaped by the values we hold close, including excellence, diversity, equity and results.

From Ben Franklin’s civic gift of 1,000 pounds sterling to Gerry Lenfest’s endowment for independent journalism, Philadelphia Foundation stewards legacies that strengthen the place we call home, improving lives today and for future generations.

Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office Forfeiture Fund – Summer Camps, Cycling, Swimming & Athletic Programs 

Description

Forfeiture Fund

Pursuant to its obligations under the Pennsylvania Controlled Substances Forfeiture Act, 42 Pa.C.S.A. § 5802, and the final order entered on February 17, 2021(Sourovelis v. City of Philadelphia, Civ. Action No. 2:14-cv-04687-ER), the Office of the District Attorney of Philadelphia must utilize funds forfeited to it to support community-based anti-crime and anti-narcotics organizations.

Organizations may request support for:

• Summer Camps
• Cycling
• Swimming
• Athletic Programs 

Organizations may use funds to support anti-crime, anti-drug, anti-violence initiatives consistent with guidance from the Office of the Attorney General of Pennsylvania and the United States Department of Justice. A non-exhaustive list of permissible uses based on these sources will be provided to grantee organizations. The Fund will prioritize requests from grassroots community groups with smaller budgets, defined as $950,000 or less. Grants are limited to organizations working with people in the city and county of Philadelphia.

Funding priorities

The Forfeiture Fund will accept applications from community-based organizations offering programs that align with the guidelines and a single focus area of this grant cycle. Applications which attempt to address all focus areas in a single application are likely to be declined.

Priority will be given to:

• Organizations with annual operating budgets at or below $950,000 
• Organizations that can demonstrate a track record of running a summer camp, cycling, swimming and/or athletic programs 

The Mabel Louise Riley Foundation's Small Grants Fund aims to support projects that enhance family life in the Greater Dudley area. Grants range from $500 to $5,000 and prioritize initiatives that foster community engagement, strengthen family connections, and improve neighborhood well-being. Eligible applicants include resident volunteers and local groups, while nonprofit status is not mandatory. The foundation emphasizes activities that promote social cohesion and personal development, ensuring that funds contribute to meaningful community benefits.

The DSF Charitable Foundation offers an Education Grant aimed at supporting projects in education within Southwestern Pennsylvania. Grants are considered three times a year, with inquiries accepted at any time. Organizations must provide a letter of inquiry along with supporting documents, including proof of 501(c)(3) status. Notably, there are restrictions on applying for funding within two years of a declined request or the end of a previous grant period.

Community Development Block Grant: Small Cities

"The Key to Connecticut's Community Development Future"

 Connecticut's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, also known as the Small Cities Program, provides funding and technical support for projects that achieve local community and economic development objectives. The Small Cities Program principally benefits low-and moderate-income persons. This program is only available to Connecticut towns and cities with populations of less than 50,000.

Funding for the Connecticut CDBG program is provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the guidelines of Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended. Eligible Activities must meet one of the following CDBG program National Objectives: benefiting low and moderate-income persons, eliminating slum and blight or addressing an urgent need.

The primary focus of the CDBG program is to benefit low-and moderate-income persons. The Connecticut CDBG program receives and distributes over thirteen million dollars each year. Since the state took over the administration of the CDBG program in 1982, over $325,700,000 has been invested in Connecticut communities. Communities participate in a competitive application process annually for CDBG funds to implement their proposed community and economic development projects.  

The Douglas Bomford Trust offers grants under £5000 to promote sustainable agricultural practices through engineering and technology. The funding supports education, research, and innovation, enabling individuals and organizations to enhance their skills and competencies. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to the Trust's objectives and have a UK connection. This initiative aims to foster knowledge transfer and professional development in the agricultural sector, benefiting both individuals and the environment.

The RWN Foundation: Oregon Arts & Culture Grant supports innovative arts and cultural organizations that enhance community well-being. Focused on historically marginalized groups, it promotes access to arts education and cultural programming. The foundation seeks to fund initiatives that celebrate diverse traditions and foster social equity, particularly in Oregon. Grants are typically smaller, averaging $10,000, and are unrestricted, allowing organizations to allocate funds as needed to maximize impact.

The Landlovers Foundation Grant, established in 1974, aims to provide philanthropic support to non-profit organizations that enhance the cultural, educational, and environmental landscape of Skidaway Island. The foundation prioritizes grant requests based on their potential impact on local residents and the necessity of funding for successful program implementation. Categories of funding include cultural services, environmental projects, and health initiatives, fostering community well-being and engagement.

The FRS Community Grant Program supports rural communities served by NTCA members, offering grants up to $5,000 for various local initiatives. Priority is given to projects that promote economic development, education, health, and public service. Eligible applicants must secure a 10% match of the grant amount requested. Ineligible projects include overhead expenses, individuals, and those without secured funding. FRS aims to foster sustainable and engaged rural communities through these efforts.

The Howard County Community Foundation Grants support projects that enhance the quality of life in Howard County, Iowa. With a minimum grant request of $1,000 and awards ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, the foundation prioritizes community needs and broad-based support. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities that demonstrate feasibility and sustainability. The foundation seeks projects that foster collaboration, address community needs, and show long-term impact to create lasting legacies in the area.

The Journey For Good Grant aims to combat poverty by supporting charitable organizations in North America focused on food security, housing, education, and workforce development. The grant prioritizes initiatives that provide nutritional wellness, combat homelessness, and support veterans and their families. By fostering partnerships among nonprofits, government, and business, the foundation addresses the interconnected challenges faced by economically vulnerable individuals, creating sustainable solutions for community empowerment.

The Iowa's Living Roadways Community Visioning Grant Program aims to enhance transportation in small Iowa communities by fostering strategic planning and community engagement. Participants develop conceptual plans to address local transportation needs, focusing on pedestrian and bicycle facilities, safety education, and beautification efforts. With a commitment of $2,000, eligible communities under 10,000 residents can seek funding sources and technical assistance for project implementation, ensuring that their transportation vision aligns with federal guidelines.

The Alma Gibbs Donchian Foundation provides grants primarily to support institutions in Vermont, focusing on issues such as elderly welfare, educational assistance for learning disabilities, and community preservation. Emphasizing partnerships and innovative program models, the Foundation prefers applicants with a strong financial management background. Grants typically range from a few thousand dollars to $20,000, with larger amounts considered for significant impact projects. Eligibility is limited to tax-exempt organizations.

The Yukon Community Renewable Energy Projects aim to enhance renewable energy supply and lower diesel usage within the Yukon. Funded by the Government of Yukon, the initiative supports community-driven projects with up to 75% funding for eligible costs, capped at $500,000. Eligible applicants include municipal and First Nation governments, development corporations, community societies, and Yukon-based businesses. Projects must generate energy using proven renewable technologies.

The Agribusiness Innovation Grant offers funding up to $30,000 to support innovative projects in the agribusiness sector. This initiative encourages transformative ideas that enhance value chains in agriculture, horticulture, and forestry. Applicants can pursue groundbreaking concepts without needing co-funding, aiming to accelerate innovation and foster collaboration. The program seeks to facilitate the development of ideas to attract additional investment and ensure the growth of New Zealand's agribusiness landscape.

The Luce/ACLS Dissertation Fellowships in American Art support graduate students conducting research on the history of art and visual culture in the U.S., including Native American art. These fellowships aim to enhance diversity in academia by welcoming applications from PhD candidates at all degree-granting institutions in the U.S. The program offers a stipend of $38,000 plus a travel and research allowance, with a total award of $42,000 for a nine to twelve-month period between July 2025 and May 2027.