Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

Trinity Grants: Neighborhood Support: Downtown Fund aims to enhance the emotional well-being of Lower Manhattan's communities. Launched in 2023, this program focuses on holistic support for families facing systemic challenges such as poverty and violence. By funding initiatives that promote education, health, and economic empowerment, the Downtown Fund seeks to alleviate toxic stress and foster resilience among children and families. Grants range from $500 to $10,000, supporting community-driven solutions.

The Skillman Foundation's President's Discretionary Fund offers annual grants between $2,500 and $10,000 to 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving Detroit youth. This $1M fund supports innovative, one-time projects or pilot programs that enhance education, health, and community services, while also addressing systemic issues. Grants are not intended for ongoing support, and eligibility includes tax-exempt status. Stay informed about future funding opportunities by subscribing to the Foundation's newsletter.

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) offers objective information and analysis, innovative programs, technical expertise, and support to help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, save money, use renewable energy, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. A public benefit corporation, NYSERDA has been advancing energy solutions and working to protect the environment since 1975.

Flexible Technical Assistance (FlexTech) Program

Description

The Flexible Technical Assistance (FlexTech) Program supports New York State commercial, industrial, institutional, and multifamily customers who pay into the Systems Benefit Charge by providing a cost-share for credible, objective technical assistance services, such as energy audits, that help businesses make more informed energy decisions. A dedicated team of engineers, technology experts, and energy consultants work with customers to create a customized assessment that identifies clean energy investment opportunities for reducing energy consumption and costs.

Customers have the option of selecting a NYSERDA qualified FlexTech Consultant or working with a consultant of their choosing. The Consultant will identify, analyze, and prioritize energy efficiency or carbon reduction recommendations. The recommendations are tailored to the customer’s site and business needs. Implementation of these recommendations may lead to lower annual utility costs, reduced operation and maintenance costs, extended equipment life, and increased occupant comfort.

The FlexTech Program does not provide cost-share for the implementation of measures identified in a study.

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) offers objective information and analysis, innovative programs, technical expertise, and support to help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, save money, use renewable energy, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. A public benefit corporation, NYSERDA has been advancing energy solutions and working to protect the environment since 1975.

Advanced Buildings Program

Buildings require a lot of energy to heat or cool spaces, circulate air, and operate lighting. Currently, about 80 percent of buildings across the State were constructed before energy codes emerged in the 1970s and utilize the burning of fossil fuels for space heating and hot water. Laboratories, startups, and established companies are working on innovative business models and technology to enable building electrification, lowering buildings’ emissions and energy use, or intelligent energy management but they need help getting their innovations to market. 

The current funding opportunity from the End Use Energy Innovation program is focused on accelerating commercialization of innovative buildings solutions through large demonstrations to enable electrification and decarbonization of buildings.

Enabling Innovative Clean Energy Building Solutions Funding Opportunity

The approximately 8 million buildings in NYS are responsible for 60% of the State’s energy consumption, and 32% of the State’s greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing emissions from these buildings will help New York reach its aggressive Climate Act goals.

To tackle emissions from buildings, NYSERDA’s End Use Energy Innovation program has released the Enabling Innovative Clean Energy Building Solutions funding opportunity to help develop energy-efficient building technologies and new business models for New York’s buildings.

How It Works

NYSERDA is requesting proposals for, and anticipates making five $1 million awards under this solicitation, to support the advancement of solutions in these five Topic Areas:

• Building Envelope
• Clean Heating and Cooling
• Intelligent Grid-interactive Building Controls
• Low-GWP Refrigerant Applications and Leak Detection
• Thermal Storage

The Intervention Research to Improve Native American Health (IRINAH), led by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, focuses on enhancing health outcomes in Native populations. It supports research to identify causes of health issues, develop and test effective interventions, and implement strategies that promote sustainability. Emphasizing community strengths, the initiative aims to rigorously evaluate solutions to reduce health disparities, ensuring interventions can be adapted and shared across diverse communities.

The Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC) offers the 'Funds for Artists' program to support individual artists in various disciplines, including dance, music, and visual arts. This grant assists with costs for materials, professional development, and marketing, providing up to $750. Eligible applicants must be working artists, residents of Franklin County, and over 18 years old. Notably, those enrolled in undergraduate programs or residing outside Franklin County are not eligible. The initiative aims to foster new artistic creations and enhance skills.

The ESVCF Community Grants Program supports capital projects and ongoing programs that positively impact residents of the Eastern Shore of Virginia. Grants of up to $50,000 are available for initiatives in areas such as arts, education, health, and community welfare. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations that directly benefit local communities, with a focus on sustainable outcomes and collaboration. Priority is given to projects that demonstrate significant community benefits and innovative solutions.

The Tom and Helen Tonkin Foundation Grant supports charitable, educational, and religious organizations that benefit the youth of Wyoming, particularly those in Casper facing challenges due to illness, injury, or poverty. Annually, the foundation awards 5 to 15 grants ranging from $2,000 to $50,000, with a preference for local organizations. This initiative aims to empower young individuals aged 6-21 by providing essential resources and support.

The Antone & Edene Vidinha Charitable Trust Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations on Kauai, focusing on churches, hospitals, health organizations, and educational scholarships for Kauai students. This trust aims to enhance the lives of residents through various capital projects and tuition aid programs. Grants are not awarded to individuals or for ongoing maintenance projects, ensuring funds directly benefit the community.

The 2025-2026 Autism Supports Grant, administered by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance the capacity of Texas public schools to support students with autism. By providing subgrants to local educational agencies, charter schools, and nonprofit organizations, this initiative focuses on implementing evidence-based practices that address the unique academic and behavioral needs of students with disabilities, ensuring high expectations are met.

The Luther T. McCauley Charitable Trust Grant supports nonprofit organizations that assist the economically disadvantaged, socially marginalized, and those with mental or physical disabilities in El Paso County, Colorado. With a focus on civic activities, community development, education, health research, and social services, the trust aims to enhance the quality of life for these populations. Organizations must meet 501(c)(3) criteria and can apply once a year, with an emphasis on youth support initiatives.

The Lahontan Community Foundation Fund Grants aim to support non-profit organizations enhancing the Truckee and North Tahoe Region. Founded in 2002, the foundation fosters community engagement through fundraising and grants. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations with at least two years of tax-exempt status that serve the local community in areas such as arts, education, environment, and health. Applications for religious activities or those promoting discrimination will not be considered.

The Ann E. Talcott Fund Grant supports charitable organizations in New Jersey, focusing on religious, scientific, educational, and humanitarian efforts. Established as a perpetual trust by Ann Earle Talcott, the fund prioritizes assistance to the indigent and aims to enhance public safety and welfare. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt entities, ensuring financial support for those dedicated to meaningful community service and improving the lives of vulnerable populations.

The Bristol County Savings Charitable Foundation has been a pillar of support for over 25 years, focusing on education, economic development, affordable housing, and critical needs sustainability. By funding diverse initiatives, the foundation aims to enhance community well-being across Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Grants range up to $10,000, with a commitment to assist qualified 501c3 organizations. This foundation's efforts are crucial in addressing ongoing challenges while fostering a more equitable environment for all residents.

The Charles & Betty Degenstein Foundation, established in 1977, aims to enhance lives through grants supporting various sectors such as education, health care, and conservation. The Foundation focuses on projects that positively impact Snyder, Union, and Northumberland Counties, encouraging community support and collaboration. Grant applications are open to 501(c)(3) organizations, guided by a Trust Board, but typically do not cover all project costs, especially for operating budgets or political activities.

About Us

The mission of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council (Ohio DD Council) is to create change that improves independence, productivity and inclusion for people with developmental disabilities and their families in community life. The Ohio DD Council operates under the authority of the federal Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (DD Act) and is a part of the Ohio DD Network. The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities assists and supports the Ohio DD Council as the federally mandated designated state agency.

All In Play: Empowering Inclusive Sports in K-12 Schools

This grant will support the development and expansion of inclusive K–12 athletic programs that increase access to meaningful participation for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), including those with significant support needs. The goal is to build school and community capacity, not to deliver direct services.

Grantees will implement a train‑the‑trainer model that equips school staff, coaches, and university partners with practical strategies for inclusive sports program design, adaptive coaching, and peer‑to‑peer engagement. Projects must include approaches that prepare trainers to support students across the full spectrum of abilities and to train student peers in disability awareness, communication, and inclusive teamwork.

Funded activities may include developing training materials, delivering trainer sessions, providing technical assistance to schools, building partnerships with university PT/OT programs, and collecting best practices. Projects should emphasize sustainability, replication, and long‑term systems change.

Applicants should demonstrate the ability to:

• Build capacity within schools to design and sustain inclusive athletic programs.
• Train educators, coaches, and university partners to support students with all levels of disability.
• Incorporate structured peer‑engagement models (e.g., buddy systems, mentorship).
• Provide technical assistance that helps schools implement inclusive practices effectively.
• Evaluate training effectiveness and share outcomes.

This grant aligns with ODDC priorities by promoting community inclusion, strengthening local capacity, supporting cross‑disability participation, and fostering collaborative partnerships that lead to lasting systemic change.

Impact 100 Hunterdon Grant empowers women to award transformative grants of $100,000 in Hunterdon County. Established in Spring 2023, this initiative focuses on diverse local women's engagement to foster positive social change. Key areas of funding include arts, education, environment, health, and family support, ensuring that grants significantly benefit the local community. Eligibility requires projects to be completed within three years, fostering impactful collaborations among community members.

CDBG Public Services

Funding Opportunity Details

Approximately $1,210,432 in federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds are available to cities and counties through the state of Iowa’s Public Services Program. All incorporated cities and all counties in the State, except those designated as HUD entitlement areas, are eligible to apply for and receive funds under this program. The Applicant will establish a subrecipient agreement with the participating nonprofit entity (“Subrecipient Partner”) for implementation of the program. Additionally, all Applicants & Subrecipient Partners must work with a Grant Administrator that complies with IEDA’s Certified Grant Administrator Policy (typically council of government or IEDA-approved consultant) to submit the application and conduct grant administration / project delivery.

The purpose of the Public Service Program is to support essential service providers, Homelessness Service Providers and Food Pantries, that address the most urgent and persistent needs of low- and moderate-income households in Iowa. By focusing resources on these high impact service areas, the program aims to support local safety nets, access to nutritious food, and individuals and families experiencing housing instability to improve community resilience. These investments complement broader CDBG goals by ensuring vulnerable Iowans receive the immediate services necessary to achieve long-term housing, health, and economic stability. 

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) by the U.S. Department of Energy provides essential services to improve energy efficiency in homes, particularly for low-income households. Eligible participants include those below 200% of the poverty level, renters, and homeowners. The application process involves determining eligibility, identifying local providers, and submitting necessary documentation. By helping families save on energy costs and enhancing comfort, WAP plays a crucial role in supporting vulnerable communities.

About Us

Making a Difference, Together

The Community Foundation of Monroe County (CFMC) builds a thriving, inclusive community through the power of philanthropy. By connecting generous donors with local causes, we help ensure Monroe County remains a place where everyone can thrive. Since our founding, we’ve been a trusted steward of community resources, fostering impactful collaborations and sustainable solutions to address challenges in education, health, poverty, and community development.

Life Needs Support

Life Needs Support provides need-based financial assistance to students and young adults from the Greater Milan area who face barriers that may prevent them from completing a degree or skilled trades training program. 

Requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. We recognize that unexpected hardships can disrupt educational progress, including expenses related to books and supplies, medical care, transportation, childcare, trade tools.

Applications are evaluated two times each year for awarding in the six months after application and selection.

The Jerry Metcalf Foundation Grant, established in 1998, supports individuals and organizations in Montana with annual awards ranging from $25,000 to $50,000. The foundation funds projects that enhance the natural environment and diverse communities, focusing on the arts, historical preservation, environmental conservation, and community health. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, which must provide IRS verification. This grant is a vital resource for fostering cultural and environmental initiatives in Montana.

Workforce Development

The Arkansas Space Grant Consortium (ASGC), a participant in the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program (NSGCFP), invites applications for the NASA Space Grant Workforce Development Award. This award offers internships at NASA Centers or aerospace-related industries, aimed at encouraging students to prepare for careers in professional aerospace fields.

The James Avery Fundraising Support provides limited cash contributions, sponsorship of special events, and in-kind support to organizations enriching community life within 50 miles of a James Avery retail location. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on arts, community improvement, veteran support, and wellness. Requests must be made at least 60 days prior to events, and organizations can receive support only once per year.

James Avery Corporate Grants support 501(c)(3) organizations located within 50 miles of a James Avery retail or corporate location. The foundation prioritizes projects that enrich community life, focusing on arts, veteran services, and wellness. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $25,000, with applications accepted once per year. Organizations must demonstrate community impact, effective management, and provide necessary documentation for eligibility. Note that certain types of funding, such as for individuals or for-profit organizations, are excluded.

The Affordable Solar and Storage Predevelopment and Technical Assistance program, offered by NYSERDA, aims to enhance solar access for low-to-moderate income households in New York. With grants totaling $3,600,000, it addresses barriers to solar installations in rental and multifamily housing. Projects can receive up to $200,000 to support predevelopment efforts, ensuring equitable solar development and meaningful benefits for underserved communities.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Harry Emley and Mary Joslin Bennett Scholarship

Selection based upon:

• Academic achievement, financial need, community and school service, and recommendations.

Awards

• One $500 scholarship

The Career Academy Incentive Fund Grant, established by the Iowa Department of Education, supports collaborations between school districts and community colleges to enhance career academy programs. Grants up to $1 million are available annually, focusing on projects that meet specified criteria. Career academies link secondary education with postsecondary opportunities through concurrent enrollment, themed coursework, and strong partnerships. Priority is given to collaborative proposals delivered via regional centers, ensuring broad access and impactful educational experiences.