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Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

Get professional development grants for nonprofit staff training, leadership growth, and skills-based learning.

32,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

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32,499 Results based on applied filters

Clifford Angell Memorial Scholarship

Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation
Association/Society
Sacramento County, California
Up to US $1,000
The Clifford Angell Memorial Scholarship, provided by the Elk Grove Regional Scholarship Foundation, supports students pursuing careers in Fire Science, Natural Resources, Conservation, or Wildlife Management. The scholarship is open to full-time and part-time students at four-year universities, community colleges, or vocational schools. Financial need is preferred but not mandatory. This initiative aims to empower local students in their educational and career pathways, fostering community engagement and support.
Education - Higher Education Environmental Education Fire Ecology +1 more

Elizabeth Pastor Ashland University Music Education Scholarship

Ashland County Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Elizabeth Pastor Ashland University Music Education Scholarship supports music students at Ashland University, honoring the legacy of Elizabeth Pastor, a renowned pianist and educator. This scholarship aims to assist students pursuing a music-related career, reflecting Pastor's belief in the transformative power of art. Established through her estate plan, it embodies her commitment to fostering musical talent and enriching the community through education and the arts.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Music Education +2 more

H2O PA – High Hazard Unsafe Dam Projects

Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
US $500,000 - US $20,000,000
The H2O PA – High Hazard Unsafe Dam Projects provides essential funding for the repair, rehabilitation, or removal of high hazard unsafe dams in Pennsylvania. Established in July 2008, this program offers grants ranging from $500,000 to $20 million for eligible state and local entities, including municipalities and independent agencies. The initiative aims to enhance public safety while addressing critical infrastructure needs, ensuring the integrity of Pennsylvania's water management systems.
Water Resource Management

Okanogan Valley Fund Grant

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
Okanogan County, Washington
More than US $2,000
The Okanogan Valley Fund Grant, administered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports charitable organizations in Okanogan County. With a minimum award of $2,000, it aims to enhance the quality of life through various projects in arts, education, environment, and health. Eligible applicants include 501c3 public charities, while government and faith-based organizations can apply for specific projects. There is no wait period, allowing annual applications.
Economic Services & Development Youth Development & Leadership Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health +2 more

ABF Next Generation Research Grants - Stroke

American Brain Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $150,000

American Brain Foundation

The American Brain Foundation funds research across the spectrum of the brain and nervous system, because it is our best hope for improving treatments, advancing prevention strategies, and discovering cures. Brain diseases, disorders, and injuries are interconnected. When we cure one, we will cure many.

Next Generation Research Grants

The American Brain Foundation’s Next Generation Research Grants (NGRGs) support early career investigators conducting high-quality research aimed at better understanding, treating, and curing brain diseases. These grants are offered in collaboration with disease-focused partner organizations and reflect ABF’s Cure One, Cure Many research philosophy: the belief that breakthroughs in one area of research accelerate progress across many others.

Lawrence M. Brass, MD Clinical Research Training Scholarship in Stroke

This award aims to recognize the importance of good clinical research and to encourage early career investigators in clinical studies related to stroke, vascular neurology, and neurocritical care.

For the purpose of this scholarship, research is defined as “patient-oriented research conducted with human participants, or translational research specifically designed to develop treatments or enhance diagnosis of neurological disease. These areas of research include epidemiologic or behavioral studies, clinical trials, studies of disease mechanisms, the development of new technologies, and health services and outcomes research.” Disease-related studies not directly involving humans or human tissue are also encouraged if the primary goal is the development of therapies, diagnostic tests, or other tools to prevent or mitigate neurological diseases.

Stroke Neuroscience Neurological Diseases & Disorders

Long Cove Community Endowment Fund

Community Foundation of the Lowcountry
Private
Beaufort County, South Carolina, Jasper County, South Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Long Cove Community Endowment Fund focuses on supporting charitable initiatives in Beaufort and Jasper Counties, South Carolina. Its mission is to encourage giving among the Long Cove Club Members and provide grants for health, housing, hunger, and education. The fund prioritizes specific projects over general operating costs, ensuring continued support for local communities. Grants are evaluated semi-annually, and donor anonymity is maintained, fostering a sustainable and impactful charitable giving environment.
Health & Medicine Real Estate & Housing Food Access & Hunger +2 more

Upper Valley Fund Grant

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
Chelan County, Washington
More than US $2,000
The Upper Valley Fund Grant, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports 501c3 public charities and project-specific funding for government and faith-based organizations in select areas. Grants can be up to $2,000, with no wait period for annual applications. This initiative aims to enhance the quality of life through arts, education, environment, and health services, ensuring that the region's charitable needs are met effectively.
Economic Services & Development Youth Development & Leadership Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health +2 more

Tennant Foundation Grants

Tennant Company Foundation
Corporate
Hennepin County, Minnesota
Unspecified amount
The Tennant Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations in the Minneapolis area, focusing on environmental programs, social services, workforce readiness, and cultural initiatives. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations without religious or political affiliations, demonstrating significant community impact and sound fiscal practices. Priority is given to projects involving Tennant employees and those with a history of prior funding. The Foundation aims to create a cleaner, safer, and healthier world through intentional giving.
Environment Human & Social Services Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness +3 more

Chelan Valley Fund Grant

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
Chelan County, Washington
More than US $2,000
The Chelan Valley Fund Grant, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports charitable causes that enhance the quality of life for residents in Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties. Eligible organizations include 501c3 public charities and certain faith-based groups for project-specific funding. Grants start at $2,000, with no wait period for annual applications. This initiative aims to benefit the community through arts, education, health, and social services.
Economic Services & Development Youth Development & Leadership Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health +2 more

Cashmere Fund Grant

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
Chelan County, Washington
More than US $2,000
The Cashmere Fund Grant, provided by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports charitable organizations that enhance the quality of life for Cashmere residents. Grants, starting at a minimum of $2,000, can be applied for annually without a wait period. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations in Cashmere, with specific funding available for project-related support from government agencies and faith-based organizations. This initiative aims to address diverse community needs, including arts, education, health, and environmental protection.
Economic Services & Development Youth Development & Leadership Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health +2 more

Wenatchee Valley Fund Grant

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
Chelan County, Washington, Douglas County, Washington
More than US $2,000
The Wenatchee Valley Fund Grant, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports charitable causes that enhance the quality of life for residents in Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties. Grants start at $2,000 and are available for 501c3 public charities and specific project funding for government and faith-based organizations. The competitive review process prioritizes projects in arts, education, health, and public benefit, ensuring impactful contributions to the community.
Economic Services & Development Arts / Culture Access & Participation Youth Development & Leadership +2 more

Scleroderma-Related Lung Disease— The Debra Lurvey Memorial Research Grant

National Scleroderma Foundation
Private
United States
US $200,000
The Scleroderma-Related Lung Disease— The Debra Lurvey Memorial Research Grant, provided by the National Scleroderma Foundation, aims to support research in scleroderma-related lung disease. With a funding amount of $200,000, the grant encourages established investigators to explore innovative solutions and enhance understanding of this condition, ultimately working towards improving the quality of life for affected individuals and advancing medical knowledge in the field.
Rare Diseases Immune System Diseases Interstitial Lung Disease

Global Awareness Fund

Boreal Waters Community Foundation
Private
Aitkin County, Minnesota, Ashland County, Wisconsin +9 more
Up to US $5,000
The Global Awareness Fund, managed by the Boreal Waters Community Foundation, supports initiatives that foster understanding and cooperation among diverse cultures. Focused on issues like peace, justice, and environmental sustainability, the Fund backs projects such as educational programs, media productions, and community dialogues. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, governmental entities, and tribal governments serving specific regions in Wisconsin and Minnesota. This initiative aims to enhance civil society and promote global citizenship.
Social Justice / Human Rights Environmental Conservation Waste Management +2 more

F. D. Rich Foundation Grants

F.D. Rich Company (The Rich Foundation)
Corporate
Fairfield County, Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The F. D. Rich Foundation Grants support charitable organizations in lower Fairfield County, Connecticut, focusing on arts, education, healthcare, and social services. Established under section 509(A) of the Internal Revenue Code, the foundation has contributed over $8 million to various non-profits since its inception. This funding aims to improve the quality of life for residents in the Stamford area and enhance community well-being through diverse initiatives.
Human & Social Services Media Arts Health Care Access & Delivery +6 more

Basin Water Supply Reserve Fund Grants

Colorado Department of Natural Resources (CO DNR)
State/Local Government
Colorado
Unspecified amount
The Basin Water Supply Reserve Fund Grants offer financial support to Colorado water users for addressing critical water supply challenges. Eligible entities, including governmental and private organizations, can apply for grants to cover activities such as technical assistance, feasibility studies, and infrastructure projects. Prior approval from a basin roundtable is required before submitting an application. This program aims to promote sustainable water management and align with the goals of the Colorado Water Plan.
Water Resource Management

Statewide Water Supply Reserve Fund Grants

Colorado Department of Natural Resources (CO DNR)
State/Local Government
Colorado
Unspecified amount
The Statewide Water Supply Reserve Fund Grants, offered by the Colorado Department of Natural Resources, aim to assist Colorado water users in addressing critical water supply challenges. These grants support various activities, including technical assistance, feasibility studies, and infrastructure projects. Eligible applicants include governmental and private entities, provided they meet specific criteria. This funding initiative encourages sustainable water management and innovation in line with the Colorado Water Plan.
Water Resource Management

Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program

Michigan Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Michigan
US $25,000 - US $250,000
The Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program (MISGP) aims to combat both terrestrial and aquatic invasive species through prevention, detection, eradication, and control strategies. Jointly managed by the Departments of Natural Resources, Environmental Quality, and Agriculture, this program focuses on strengthening the early detection network, preventing new invasions, and controlling established species. Funding is prioritized based on specific criteria, project metrics, and geographic location, ensuring effective resource allocation.
Invasive Species Control

Fish and Wildlife Resources Fund Grant Program

Colorado Department of Natural Resources (CO DNR)
State/Local Government
Colorado
Unspecified amount
The Fish and Wildlife Resources Fund Grant Program, administered by the Colorado Water Conservation Board, aims to support existing water supply facilities while ensuring the protection of Colorado's fish and wildlife. Grants can be utilized for water rights acquisition, river restoration projects, and a combination of both, enhancing environmental sustainability. Eligible applicants include operators of water facilities and the CWCB, with projects expected to be completed within three years. Contact CWCB staff for funding discussions and requirements.
Water Resource Management

Golden Bell Education Foundation Grants: Middle School Level

Greater Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation Inc.
Private
Palm Beach County, Florida
Unspecified amount

Golden Bell Education Foundation

Mission:

To support the Boca Raton public school system by administering funds and educational programs that promote business skills for students

Who We Serve:

The local Boca Raton public school system and the surrounding community

History:

​The Golden Bell Education Foundation was created in 1991 by the Greater Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce's Board of Directors as a way to give back to their Chamber members. By giving to our local public schools today, we are fostering a better a learning environment to create a stronger generation of leaders for tomorrow. These leaders will go onto lead our local businesses and have a positive impact on our community. The Golden Bell Education Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization existing to improve Boca Raton public schools and help our future leaders flourish.

Golden Bell Education Foundation Grants

Every year, the Golden Bell Education Foundation awards grants to Boca Raton public school teachers and administrators for programs that support the development of business skills and workforce readiness. 

Grant Guidelines

Experiential Education as it relates to Career and/or Academic Exploration and Development and/or the Core Curriculum.

Example: requesting materials for students to gain experience in a certain area of work or a profession.

Education - Middle School Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Career / College Preparation

Holloway Family Foundation Grant

Graham and Carolyn Holloway Family Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Holloway Family Foundation, established in North Central Texas, aims to enhance community quality of life regardless of race, gender, or religion. Their mission focuses on financial security, creative expression for under-resourced youth, and mentorship for personal development. The foundation supports organizations that provide workforce training, artistic opportunities for children, and guidance for youth in need. By fostering individual growth and economic stability, they empower families and strengthen communities, staying true to the founders' core values and personal experiences.
Tutoring & Mentoring Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Youth Involvement in the Arts

WISEWOMAN Solicitation

Ohio Department of Health and Human Services
State/Local Government
Ohio
Unspecified amount

WISEWOMAN Solicitation

Number of Grants and Funds Available: One grant to be awarded with federal funds. The award amount will be no more than $92,000.

No grant award will be issued for less than $30,000. The minimum amount is exclusive of any required matching amounts and represents only ODH funds granted. Applications submitted for less than the minimum amount will not be considered for review.

Purpose

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Well-Integrated Screening and Evaluation for WOMen Across the Nation (WISEWOMAN) program is at the forefront of the nation’s efforts to improve cardiovascular health for low-income, uninsured, and underinsured participants. Congress authorized the WISEWOMAN program in 1993 to extend the preventive health services offered to participants of the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP). The intent is to expand services to NBCCEDP participants aged 35-64 to address cardiovascular health concerns in a population made vulnerable through social determinants of health.

WISEWOMAN Subgrantees do not provide screening and diagnostic services. All screening and diagnostic services are provided by medical professionals under separate contract with the Ohio Department of Health. WISEWOMAN subrecipients are awarded funds for operational and administrative costs. Funds to be used for the reimbursement of screening and diagnostic services are not awarded to WISEWOMAN subgrantees and are managed by a Third-Party Administrator in a separate account.

Cardiovascular Diseases & Systems Women's Health Breast Cancer

Church & School Outreach Grants

Gianforte Fam Charitable Tr
Private
Montana
Up to US $3,300
The Gianforte Family Foundation offers Church & School Outreach Grants to empower local Christian churches and schools in Montana. With grants of up to $3,300, the foundation aims to strengthen community outreach through programs that share the Gospel, support families, promote economic flourishing, and provide recovery tools. Eligible applicants must be Christian organizations actively engaging their communities with innovative programs that align with their ministry philosophy.
Christianity Family Services Economic Services & Development +2 more

Maryland's Rural Legacy Grant Program

Maryland Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Maryland
Unspecified amount
Maryland's Rural Legacy Grant Program aims to protect large, contiguous tracts of land with rich natural and cultural resources from sprawl development. By fostering collaboration between state and local governments and land trusts, the program enhances farms and forests through the acquisition of easements and fee simple estates from willing landowners. Annual applications from local sponsors are reviewed by the Rural Legacy Advisory Committee, which makes funding recommendations to the Rural Legacy Board and ultimately to the Governor.
Land / Habitat Conservation Natural Resources Environmental Stewardship

Back to Better: Creative Resilience Grants

Centre County Community Foundation Inc.
Private
Centre County, Pennsylvania, Clearfield County, Pennsylvania +2 more
US $3,000
The Back to Better: Creative Resilience Grants aim to support independent artists and creative business owners in Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, and Huntingdon Counties, who are still facing challenges due to the pandemic. Funded by the ARPA Pennsylvania Arts and Culture Recovery initiative, these $3,000 grants provide essential financial assistance to help stabilize their practices, adapt to new realities, and reinvigorate their artistic endeavors, fostering resilience and community recovery.
Music Visual Arts Architecture +2 more

F26AS00071 Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund: Habitat Conservation Plan Land Acquisition Grants

US Department of the Interior: Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $10,000 - US $26,000,000
The Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund supports habitat conservation through land acquisition grants. Established in 1997, this program aims to minimize conflicts between listed species conservation and land use. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provides matching grants to state agencies for projects that ensure the long-term protection of habitats. By acquiring land or conservation easements, this initiative facilitates species recovery and helps prevent future listings under the Endangered Species Act, enhancing overall ecosystem health.
Environmental Conservation Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Land / Habitat Conservation

F26AS00105 National Fish Passage Program

Fish and Wildlife Service
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $1,000,000
The National Fish Passage Program (NFPP) offers vital assistance for removing barriers to aquatic life, enhancing safety, and promoting local economies. By investing in projects like culvert replacements and floodplain restorations, the program not only supports native fish populations but also delivers significant economic benefits, estimated at $1.5 million for every $1 million invested. With a recent allocation of $15 million, including $5 million for specific restoration initiatives, NFPP continues to advance aquatic connectivity nationwide.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Ichthyology (Fish) Fish Conservation

Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Professional development grants for nonprofits provide funding to enhance staff skills, leadership training, and organizational growth. The following grants help nonprofits improve efficiency, adapt to challenges, and achieve long-term sustainability in their mission-driven work.


Search Instrumentl's Professional Development Grants Database


Explore 8,000+ funding opportunities for professional development, with $3.43B in resources. Instrumentl helps organizations grow by providing grant-matching tools, deadline tracking, and funder insights to support career advancement and success.

Last updated: October 5, 2026. Next update: November 1, 2026.

Grant Insights : Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Quite common — grants in this category are more prevalent than in others.

8,000+ Professional Development grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

3,000+ Professional Development grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

3,000+ Professional Development grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

1,000+ Professional Development grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

7,000+ Professional Development grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Economic Services & Development

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Professional Development grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
29.8%
Q2
23.8%
Q3
23.9%
Q4
22.6%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $34,887.

$0 $0 Min.
$34,887 $34.9 K Median
$655,609 $655.6 K Average
$188,250,000 $188.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Professional development grants are available for nonprofits focused on workforce training, leadership development, skill-building, and support for their staff and volunteers. These grants are ideal for organizations looking to boost their team’s skills and impact. Funders often prioritize nonprofits that serve underrepresented communities, focus on equity in leadership, or have a clear plan for using professional development to improve their mission-driven work.

Grants in professional development typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q1, with 29.8% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q4.

The main goal of professional development grants is to help nonprofit teams grow, improve, and become more effective. Funders see professional development grants as an investment for nonprofit professionals to improve their skills, ultimately leading to better leadership, stronger services, and more sustainable organizations. These grants often support leadership training, technical skill development, and mentorship programs that help teams with ongoing learning opportunities.

On average, grants in professional development provide funding between $0 and $188,250,000, with typical awards falling around $34,887 (median) and $655,609 (average). These insights can help nonprofits align their funding requests with what grantmakers typically offer in this space.

Professional development grants are typically funded by private foundations, corporate sponsors, and government agencies. Organizations like the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and Kresge Foundation are known for funding initiatives to build organizational capacity. Some corporations also provide grants to nonprofits that align with their workforce development goals, helping to create stronger communities and more skilled nonprofit professionals.

To improve the chances of receiving private grants, nonprofits should:

  • Research funders carefully – Get to know private funders by learning about their mission, past grant recipients, and funding priorities.
  • Be clear about your goals and expected results – Outline measurable outcomes, how the funds will be used, and what you hope to achieve. Having a history of success can also make your application more convincing.
  • Show financial responsibility – Prove you have good money management and a plan for long-term financial sustainability beyond the grant.
  • Build connections – Meet with grantmakers through networking events, email introductions, or funder Q&As.

Struggling to manage multiple grants? Learn how to stay organized with our comprehensive grant tracking spreadsheet guide.

Instrumentl simplifies the process of applying for professional development grants by offering an intuitive platform that helps nonprofits discover relevant funding opportunities, track deadlines, and analyze funder-giving patterns. The platform's automated alerts ensure users never miss a deadline, while detailed funder insights help organizations tailor their applications to align with grantor priorities.

See how Instrumentl helps you discover grants, cultivate relationships, and apply for funding.