Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Sylvia J. Slominski Nursing Scholarship Endowment, established in 2009, aims to support aspiring nursing students. It honors Sylvia J. Slominski, a dedicated nurse and educator, by providing financial assistance for tuition and related expenses. Applicants must be full-time undergraduates or graduates in nursing, demonstrate financial need, and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. The scholarship promotes excellence in nursing education and is open to residents of the Tri-Cities area.

The Van Beuren Foundation offers planning grants for major construction and landscape projects, focusing on community impact, particularly in Aquidneck Island and Newport County. These grants help organizations assess project feasibility, engage stakeholders, and define project requirements. The Foundation encourages innovative proposals that align with its priorities in education, health, economic growth, and community infrastructure. The application process is rolling, and first-time applicants are advised to schedule a call with a Program Assistant.

The Anne S. Richardson Fund Grants offer support for charitable purposes, focusing on organizations in Ridgefield, Connecticut. Funding priorities include initiatives that assist lower-income individuals, promote women's independence, support the LGBTQ+ community, foster youth development, and encourage environmental conservation. This fund, established in the mid-1960s, aims to enhance community wellbeing and is available to public charities classified under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS.

The Major Construction and Landscape Grants - Design Grants support nonprofit organizations and public institutions in planning significant construction and landscape projects. The grants focus on three key areas: Strong Starts for children, Healthy Lifestyles for community members, and Community Prosperity through regional economic growth. By investing in innovative and collaborative approaches, the program aims to enhance the quality of life in Aquidneck Island and Newport County while providing a framework for successful project execution.

The Major Construction and Landscape Grants offered by the Van Beuren Charitable Foundation support impactful projects that enhance community vitality in Aquidneck Island and Newport County. These grants focus on three key areas: ensuring children have a strong educational start, promoting healthy lifestyles, and fostering regional economic growth. By encouraging innovative proposals that align with these priorities, the foundation aims to strengthen organizations and improve the quality of life for residents, making communities more vibrant and resilient.

The Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation Grants focus on HIV/AIDS research funding, supporting scientific studies aimed at treatment and cure, as well as HIV prevention and care programs. Established by Robert Mapplethorpe, the foundation prioritizes proposals from U.S. organizations, especially those in the New York area, that lack support from larger funding sources. The foundation seeks to protect Mapplethorpe's legacy while advancing critical research in the HIV/AIDS field.

The Y & H Soda Foundation Grant Program supports organizations in the East Bay focused on equity and social change. Prioritizing immigrant rights and economic justice, the foundation seeks initiatives that address systemic barriers and foster community engagement. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations serving Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. The foundation emphasizes advocacy and local solutions that empower marginalized voices, aiming for lasting impact in promoting inclusivity and prosperity for all residents.

The Rose Family Foundation Grant focuses on supporting initiatives in housing, workforce training, education, community development, and social services. Primarily serving the Dallas/Fort Worth area, this grant aims to empower local communities by funding projects that enhance quality of life and promote sustainable growth. Applicants are encouraged to explore the foundation's online resources to learn more about eligibility and application processes.

The NANFA Conservation Research Grant, offered by the North American Native Fishes Association, supports research focused on conserving North America's indigenous fish species, particularly those that are threatened or endangered. With a maximum funding of $1,000 per proposal, this grant is open to academia, conservation groups, and independent researchers. Since 2001, NANFA has aimed to enhance knowledge about native fishes and promote their conservation through scientific research and community engagement.

The CARES Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in California's Sacramento region that address the needs of individuals living with HIV. The foundation prioritizes HIV prevention, treatment, and support services, while also funding innovative projects that reduce stigma and discrimination against those affected by HIV. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or government agencies primarily serving the local area, ensuring inclusivity and non-discrimination in their operations.

The Foundation

In 1946, The Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation was established by Francis Cardinal Spellman to honor the legacy of Alfred Emanuel Smith, New York’s most renowned Catholic governor and the first Roman Catholic to run for President of the United States on a major party ticket.

Our Grants

The Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation grants support family services, education, and healthcare.

We understand that although life can be unfair, an investment in those who are less fortunate can help to level the playing field.

Grant Procedure

Founded in 1946 to honor the memory of renowned New York Governor and champion of the “little people,” Alfred Emanuel Smith, The Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation awards annual grants to organizations that bring hope and support to the poor, sick, and underprivileged within the Archdiocese of New York, regardless of race, creed, or color. Selected organizations are well-managed, financially stable, and propose projects that are worthy, purposeful, and clearly targeted. Charitable efforts are directed primarily toward organizations that serve:

Individuals facing physical, developmental, or emotional challenges who can achieve improved health and well-being through specialized medical and therapeutic services. 

Children and youth affected by poverty or other barriers who can reach their full potential through innovative educational programs and learning opportunities. 

Families and children in need of social support or foster care, whose stability, safety, and long-term prospects can be strengthened through targeted, outcome-driven services. 

Lewes-Rehoboth Association of Congregations

The Lewes-Rehoboth Association of Congregations (LRAC) is a 501(c)3 charitable nonprofit corporation established in 1983 as a collaborative effort of local churches to come together to serve those in need in the community. LRAC runs the New Life Thrift Shop which funds grant support for the Community Resource Center and a host of other local ministry partners.

LRAC grants

Our mission is to help those in need, primarily feeding the hungry and housing the homeless. Please be sure your mission addresses food or housing insecurity.

To support the development and implementation of Comprehensive Status - Neutral HIV Services for Focus Populations most attended by HIV. Programs must provide impactful and innovative services, either with specific stages or along the full continuum of HIV testing, prevention, and care/treatment. Programs must provide engagement and linkage to an intentional and exceptional intervention, but re-imagined ensuring services are customer-centered , culturally aware and trauma-informed. 

The Life Comes From It Grant, funded by the Tides Foundation, supports grassroots initiatives focused on restorative, transformative, and indigenous justice. It prioritizes projects led by communities of color, emphasizing alternatives to incarceration and community-led solutions. Applicants must be 501c3 organizations based in the United States. This grant fosters a collaborative approach to healing and justice, aiming to shift power dynamics and promote inclusive practices across generations.

The Individual Artist Fellowship Awards, offered by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, support practicing artists in New Jersey to pursue their artistic goals. With two application deadlines on July 2 and July 16, 2025, these fellowships are awarded based on the artistic quality of submitted work, evaluated by independent panels. Eligible artistic categories range from Film and Digital to Painting and Interdisciplinary works, fostering creativity across diverse disciplines.

The Upper Kern Fisheries Enhancement Fund Grant, established by Southern California Edison, aims to improve the Kern River rainbow trout population and restore habitats in the Upper Kern Basin. With nearly $3.5 million in total funding, this grant supports projects aligned with the Fishery Management Plan, ensuring the sustainability of native fish species and water quality standards. Eligible projects must contribute to the restoration and enhancement of fisheries resources in the region.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

County Forest Administration

Eligibility & Purpose:

Any county employing a professional forester in the capacity of county forest administrator or assistant county forest administrator can receive up to 50 percent of its employee's annual salary and fringe benefit costs. 

The Stackpole-Hall Foundation Grant, exceeding $50K, aims to enhance the quality of life in Elk County, Pennsylvania. It prioritizes educational, human service, and community development needs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, churches, and governmental entities. The foundation does not support individual grants or projects outside the U.S. Interested parties should contact the foundation prior to applying for funding to discuss their proposals.

The SCORCH Program: Phase 2 aims to enhance the understanding of single cell biology in the context of HIV and Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Building on previous research, this initiative will explore new single cell approaches to investigate the interactions between SUD and HIV progression at various biological levels. By leveraging advanced techniques, the program seeks to identify candidate mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets, ultimately contributing to innovative solutions for SUDs and HIV-related challenges.

Incyte Corporation invites organizations to submit membership requests aimed at enhancing healthcare access for patients and advocates. As a biopharmaceutical leader, Incyte supports initiatives that align with its mission to improve patient lives through grants and contributions. Eligible entities include medical schools, associations, non-profits, and advocacy groups. Requests should comply with Incyte's regulatory standards and be submitted at least 60 days prior to the required decision date.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - North Carolina

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

Incyte Corporation, a biopharmaceutical leader, offers healthcare sponsorships to support organizations focused on improving patient care and access to healthcare information. Eligible applicants include medical schools, associations, non-profits, advocacy groups, and hospitals. Requests should align with Incyte's commitment to enhancing the lives of patients affected by cancer and other diseases, ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines. Organizations must enter a written agreement with Incyte to receive funding.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Ohio

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

The Harry F. Dise Grant, managed by the Harry F. Dise Charitable Foundation, supports charitable organizations in Prescott, Arizona, focusing on the preservation of historical landmarks and objects. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. The foundation prioritizes areas such as animal welfare, arts and culture, civic activities, community development, education, environment, health research, social services, and religious activities. Note that individual applications are not accepted.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Pennsylvania

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Texas

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

The Bob & Stephanie Wells Scholarship, offered by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students from Elk Grove Unified School District pursuing higher education. This scholarship targets individuals attending 4-year universities or community colleges, with a preference for those demonstrating financial need. Eligible candidates should plan to major in environmental studies or green technology, and both full-time and part-time students are invited to apply. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to educational advancement in the local community.