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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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32,423 Results based on applied filters

Anna Paulina Grant

Anna Paulina Foundation
Private
Michigan
US $100,000 - US $300,000
The Anna Paulina Foundation, established in 1961, is dedicated to supporting public charities in Michigan, particularly in the Flint area. With a focus on the arts, youth leadership, urban beautification, and human services, the Foundation aims to make a positive impact on the community. Grants range from $100,000 to $300,000, with larger awards available in special cases, ensuring support for specific programs and projects.
Music Youth Development & Leadership Youth Involvement in the Arts +2 more

Denton Family Foundation Grant

Denton Family Charitable Foundation
Private
Rockingham County, Virginia
Unspecified amount
The Denton Family Foundation Grant, established by E. Warren Denton, Jr. in 1985, aims to support nonprofit organizations in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County. It focuses on community needs, education, church, athletics, and the arts, particularly music. While there is no formal application deadline, proposals are preferred over personal meetings. The foundation, a 501(c)3 private entity, requires organizations to align with its funding priorities to qualify for grants.
Art & Culture Music Education +5 more

Amicus Foundation Grant

Amicus Foundation
Private
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Amicus Foundation, established in 2015, is dedicated to supporting non-profit organizations that focus on families, faith, conservation, health, veterans, and education. Through matching grants, the foundation aims to maximize impact by aligning financial resources with effective charitable initiatives. Their mission is to foster a healthy family environment, which they believe is essential for the success of the nation. The foundation emphasizes strategic investments to ensure positive outcomes for communities.
Military & Veterans Services Environmental Conservation Religion & Spirituality +4 more

Make It Better Foundation Grant

Cousins Subs Make It Better Foundation Inc
Private
Brown County, Wisconsin, Columbia County, Wisconsin +18 more
Up to US $5,000
The Cousins Subs Make It Better Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on health & wellness, hunger, and youth education. Since its inception in 2013, the foundation has granted over $800,000 to eligible organizations that align with these key areas. Applications from 501(c)(3) entities are prioritized, with a one-year waiting period for previous grantees. This initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing community welfare and making a positive impact.
Education - K through 12 Academic Success & Enrichment Wellness & Healthy Living +3 more

UWGW Community Need Fund Grant

The United Way of Greater Waterbury
Private
Litchfield County, Connecticut, New Haven County, Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The United Way of Greater Waterbury provides funding through its Community Needs Fund to address the pressing needs of local communities. Their initiatives focus on education, financial stability, and basic needs, aiming to enhance learning opportunities for youth, connect individuals with economic resources, and ensure access to essential services like healthcare and food. This funding is available to 501c3 organizations serving the ten towns in the Greater Waterbury area, enhancing community resilience and support.
Basic Human Needs Education Economic Services & Development +4 more

ESC IDEA-B Sensory Impairments

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
US $1,415,000
The 2025-2026 ESC IDEA-B Sensory Impairments program, administered by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance support for local educational agencies. It focuses on improving educational outcomes for students with visual impairments, including those who are blind or deafblind. The program provides essential technical assistance and training for educators, as well as funding for certified interpreters, ensuring effective communication and access to resources for teachers at the Texas School for the Deaf.
Education Educational Access & Equity Children With Disabilities +2 more

TSBVI Access Grant

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
US $650,000
The TSBVI Access Grant, awarded by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance access to core and expanded curricula for students with visual impairments. This project will provide refreshable braille tablets to eligible braille-reading students in Texas, addressing funding gaps due to changes in federal quota fund availability. Through this initiative, the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired will support educational equity for visually impaired learners in the 2025-2026 academic year.
Education Disability Care & Services Children With Disabilities +2 more

Specialty Crop Community Orchard Grant

North Dakota Department of Agriculture
State/Local Government
North Dakota
More than US $40,000

About Us

Welcome to www.ndda.nd.gov, the website of the North Dakota Department of Agriculture.

Agriculture is the dominant sector of our state's economy. Our 26,000 farmers and ranchers lead the nation in the production of more than a dozen important commodities, among them wheat, durum, barley, flax, canola, pulse crops and more.

Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring and the Department staff are committed to promoting a healthy economic, environmental and social climate for agriculture and the rural community through leadership, advocacy, education, regulation and other services. We believe that a strong agricultural economy is vital to the long-term well-being of North Dakota, our country and the world.

Specialty Crop Community Orchard Grants

The North Dakota Department of Agriculture (NDDA) has a grant opportunity to support the creation of permanent community orchards in underserved regions to increase community access to and consumer education of specialty crops. The funds for these grants come from the USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant program.

Eligible organizations can ask for $40,000 or more to establish a new community orchard.

Horticulture & Gardening Greening & Beautification Agricultural Crops +3 more

NH Complaint Investigation Services Grant

New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services
State/Local Government
New Hampshire
US $112,000

About DHHS

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.

RFA-2027-OCOM-03-COMPL: Complaint Investigation Services

Division of Long Term Supports and Services

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Long Term Supports and Services (“Department”) is seeking responses to this Request for Applications ("Solicitation" or "RFA") from qualified Vendors to provide statewide Complaint Investigation Services regarding allegations of client rights violations on behalf of individuals with acquired brain disorders or developmental disabilities, pursuant to New Hampshire Administrative Rule He-M 202.   

Qualified Vendors must meet the following minimum qualifications for a complaint investigator, pursuant to New Hampshire Administrative Rule He-M 202.09 (a):

  • Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college in social work, sociology, psychology, human services, related behavioral services, or criminal justice and experience in performing complaint investigations totaling two (2) years or more; or 
  • Experience in developmental disabilities services in New Hampshire totaling three (3) years or more in an area such as service coordination, program management; or quality assurance.
Learning Disabilities Intellectual / Developmental Disabilities Brain Injuries +2 more

Clarence W. Winter Charitable Trust Grant

Winter Clarence W Charitable Trust
Private
Pennsylvania, United States
US $3,000 - US $5,000
The Clarence W. Winter Charitable Trust, established from Mr. Winter's Will, provides annual grants of $3,000 to $5,000 to support tax-exempt organizations focused on charitable, religious, scientific, literary, or educational purposes. While there are no geographic restrictions, the Trust prioritizes organizations in Bucks County, PA. With a commitment to community betterment, Mr. Winter's legacy continues to support impactful initiatives for years to come.
Health Care Access & Delivery Educational Access & Equity Animal Welfare - General +4 more

Elisabeth Severance Prentiss Foundation Grant

E S Prentiss Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Elisabeth Severance Prentiss Foundation Grant supports healthcare initiatives in the greater Cleveland area, focusing on medical research, public health promotion, and assistance to local hospitals. The foundation prioritizes grant requests from private sector organizations and favors projects with a duration of three years or less. It does not fund national campaigns, individual scholarships, or endowment contributions. Eligible projects must align with the foundation's commitment to enhancing health services for all, particularly low-income populations.
Health & Medicine Epidemiology & Public Health Surgery +2 more

EA Funds: Animal Welfare Fund Grant

Centre For Effective Altruism Usa Inc
Private
Countries
Up to US $200,000
The EA Funds: Animal Welfare Fund Grant aims to enhance the welfare of nonhuman animals globally through strategic grants. It focuses on neglected regions, innovative research, and impactful advocacy, particularly for farmed and wild animals. The fund supports projects that alleviate suffering, promote alternatives to factory farming, and engage in policy advocacy. By contributing to this grant, you can help create a significant positive impact on animal welfare and support initiatives that are often overlooked.
Animal Welfare - General Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets Farms & Farming +2 more

Pete and Sally Smith Foundation Grant

Pete and Sally Smith Foundation
Private
Oconee County, South Carolina, Rhea County, Tennessee
Unspecified amount
The Pete and Sally Smith Foundation Grant supports charitable initiatives in education, environment, and medical research within Rhea County, Tennessee, and Oconee County, South Carolina. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and submit applications online. The foundation prioritizes funding for scholarship programs, educational initiatives, land conservation, and research on kidney disease and Alzheimer's. Applications are accepted year-round, with a review meeting held annually in September.
Environment Land / Habitat Conservation Education - Higher Education +5 more

Mt. Sinai Health Care Foundation Grants

The Mt. Sinai Health Care Foundation
Private
Cuyahoga County, Ohio, Geauga County, Ohio +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Mt. Sinai Health Care Foundation aims to enhance the health and well-being of both the Jewish and general communities in Greater Cleveland. The foundation funds initiatives focused on improving mental and physical health, promoting health education, and supporting vulnerable populations. By collaborating with local organizations and prioritizing projects that demonstrate sustainability and measurable outcomes, it seeks to create lasting impacts in health promotion and disease prevention. Grants are available to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations within the region.
Health Policy & Advocacy Health & Medicine Judaism +3 more

R.C. Smith Foundation Grants

R C Smith Foundation Inc
Private
Chenango County, New York
Unspecified amount
The R.C. Smith Foundation Grants support community initiatives in Chenango County, focusing on 501(c)(3) organizations that benefit local residents and programs. Established in 2005, the foundation prioritizes contributions to religious groups, youth programs, and food pantries. With a dedicated board that meets quarterly, the foundation ensures a thoughtful review of grant applications, promoting the welfare of the community through strategic funding efforts.
Catholicism Youth Services Food Delivery & Distribution Services +1 more

Embraer Foundation: (e)NVEST Community Grant

Embraer Foundation Inc
Private
Bibb County, Georgia, Brevard County, Florida +12 more
Up to US $25,000
The Embraer Foundation's (e)NVEST Community Grant program supports local initiatives addressing critical community needs in areas such as education, housing, food insecurity, and workforce development. With grants of up to $25,000 available, the program aims to create a positive impact in communities surrounding Embraer's facilities. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) public charities that have been active for over a year, focusing on sustainable development goals aligned with the United Nations.
Education Real Estate & Housing Food Access & Hunger +1 more

Prolacta Bioscience Foundation Grant

Prolacta Bioscience Foundation
Private
El Paso County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The Prolacta Bioscience Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on enhancing human health and empowering communities. Established in 2019, the foundation aids in innovative research on human milk and promotes educational initiatives. Grants prioritize organizations that align with the foundation's mission and serve areas where Prolacta employees live. Notable projects include creating resources for parents and organizing community events to showcase the importance of neonatal care, ultimately ensuring a brighter future for vulnerable infants.
Family Services Maternal And Perinatal Health Wellness & Healthy Living +2 more

Benjamin A. Black Charitable Trust for Children Grant

Benjamin A. Black Charitable Trust for Children
Private
Nebraska
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Benjamin A. Black Charitable Trust for Children provides essential support to economically deprived children in central Nebraska. Established in 1990, it honors Benjamin A. Black's legacy by funding programs that offer necessities and joy, such as Christmas gifts. Grants are targeted towards public charities that directly benefit children, with a focus on areas outside Omaha and Lincoln. Applications are accepted year-round, with a deadline of March 31 for annual review.
Poverty Alleviation & Services Child Welfare Services Basic Human Needs +4 more

Carolyn Jane Scott Charitable Trust Grant

The Carolyn Jane Scott Charitable Trust
Private
New Jersey
US $15,000 - US $25,000
The Carolyn Jane Scott Charitable Trust, managed by Wells Fargo Bank, supports 501(c)(3) organizations primarily in New Jersey. It funds a variety of areas including education, health, and the arts, with grants typically ranging from $15,000 to $25,000. The Trust prioritizes requests that demonstrate community need and administrative stability, while excluding individuals and for-profit entities. Its mission embodies a commitment to charitable, scientific, literary, and educational purposes.
Art & Culture Education Animal Welfare - General +7 more

Arizona DPS VOCA Crime Victim Assistance Grants

Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS)
State/Local Government
Arizona
US $10,000 - US $1,250,000

Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Victims Assistance - DPS VOCA Administration Unit

Overview/Mission Statement:

Every victim of crime is entitled to safety, healing, justice and restitution. The mission of the Arizona Department of Public Safety's VOCA Administration Unit is to effectively administer VOCA Assistance funds by ensuring appropriate and accessible services are available to crime victims, enhancing the delivery of those services through technical assistance, training opportunities, and promoting a continuum of care for every victim in every community.

Crime Victims Fund

The Department of Justice, Crime Victims Fund was established by the Federal Victims of Crime Act of 1984 (VOCA) and serves as a major funding source for victim services throughout the country. Each year, millions of dollars are deposited into this fund from criminal fines, forfeited bail bonds, penalty fees and special assessments collected by the US Attorney’s Offices, US Courts and the Bureau of Prisons. These dollars all come from offenders convicted of federal crimes.

In 1985, the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) was designated as the administrator of the state’s VOCA Assistance Program. The purpose of this program is to provide funding for governmental and non-profit agencies that provide direct services to crime victims. These funds are not awarded to private individuals.

The purpose of the VOCA funding is to promote efforts that:

  • Respond to the emotional, psychological or physical needs of crime victims;
  • Assist victims to stabilize their lives after victimization;
  • Assist victims to understand and participate in the criminal justice system; or
  • Restore a measure of security and safety for the victim.
Crime Victim Services Community / Public Safety Crisis Intervention +1 more

Ruby J. Craddock Memorial Trust Grant

The Ruby J. Craddock Memorial Trust
Private
Utah
US $5,000 - US $10,000
The Ruby J. Craddock Memorial Trust Grant supports the well-being of animals, educational programs for youth, epilepsy research, and home care for the terminally ill. Established by the Craddocks of Salt Lake City, Utah, it focuses on organizations qualifying as 501(c)(3) entities. The trust aims to empower communities through targeted interventions in health, education, and social services, providing crucial support to enhance lives and promote welfare.
Animal Welfare - General Youth Services Hospice / End of Life Care +1 more

James A. and Faith Knight Foundation Grant Program

James A. & Faith Knight Foundation
Private
Jackson County, Michigan, Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The James A. and Faith Knight Foundation Grant Program, established in 1999, focuses on enhancing community support in Jackson and Washtenaw Counties, Michigan. It prioritizes general operating support for nonprofits, aims to protect the natural world, and advocates for women and girls' empowerment. The foundation underscores the importance of sound financial practices, governance, and diversity in grantmaking, fostering trust between funders and grantees while addressing critical societal issues.
Animal Welfare - General Environmental Conservation Environmental Stewardship +3 more

Chicago Commitment: Civic Partnerships

John D and Catherine T MacArthur Foundation
Private
Cook County, Illinois
Unspecified amount
The Chicago Commitment: Civic Partnerships aims to foster a more equitable city by supporting local organizations and partnerships that address systemic racism and promote racial equity. With an emphasis on inclusive actions, the initiative focuses on community-driven solutions to pressing challenges. By investing in diverse voices and creative sectors, the foundation seeks to uplift marginalized communities and create a resilient environment where all Chicagoans can thrive and contribute meaningfully.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Social Justice / Human Rights Community / Public Safety +4 more

Hyde and Watson Foundation Grant

Hyde and Watson Foundation
Private
Bronx County, New York, Essex County, New Jersey +6 more
US $5,000 - US $20,000
The Hyde and Watson Foundation, established in 1983, provides capital grants for projects in New York City and certain New Jersey counties. Funding supports construction, renovations, and equipment purchases for nonprofits with a 501(c)(3) status. Eligible fields include human services, education, health, arts, and the environment. Grants exclude operating support, individual funding, and recurring fees, with a limit of one grant per organization per year. Applications are due by February 1 or August 1.
Human & Social Services Media Arts Education +5 more

Project Safe Neighborhoods RFP

Ohio Office of Criminal & Justice Services
State/Local Government
Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative, led by the Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services, aims to create safer communities by reducing violent crime and gun violence through collaboration among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. The program emphasizes community engagement, prevention, strategic enforcement, and accountability to foster trust and support in neighborhoods. By utilizing resources effectively, PSN seeks to address the root causes of crime, ensuring a comprehensive approach to public safety and improving community health.
Community / Public Safety Crime & Justice Police & Law Enforcement +3 more

Jean and Marie-Louise Dufrenoy Scholarship

Society of French and Francophone Professors of America (SPFFA)
Private
France
US $25,000
The Jean and Marie-Louise Dufrenoy Scholarship is awarded annually to American nationals or resident aliens pursuing studies in sciences or technology in France. Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Sciences or Arts degree obtained within the last five years. The scholarship provides $25,000, distributed in two payments, to support their academic journey. In exceptional cases, it may be renewed for an additional year if the recipient is registered at a scientific institution during their stay in France.
Engineering Mathematics Chemistry +9 more

Lena Benas Memorial Fund Grant

Lena Benas Memorial Fund
Private
Litchfield County, Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The Lena Benas Memorial Fund Grant, established in 1986, aims to support the health, human services, and housing needs of underserved individuals in Litchfield, Connecticut, and nearby communities. The fund prioritizes organizations that serve these populations, particularly in areas such as education, healthcare, and housing maintenance. Special consideration is given to established nonprofits that demonstrate a commitment to improving the lives of those in need, ensuring impactful community support.
Poverty Alleviation & Services Human & Social Services Equitable & Affordable Housing +1 more

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.