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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

Debra Slater Memorial Scholarship

Ashland County Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Debra Slater Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, assists graduating seniors from Hillsdale High School and continuing college students pursuing accredited two or four-year degrees. Eligible applicants must major in Agriculture or Animal Sciences and maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher, with preference given to current or former members of FFA or 4-H. This scholarship aims to support future leaders in agriculture and contribute to the community's growth.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs College Success / Persistence +2 more

Lakers Youth Foundation Quarterly Grants

Los Angeles Lakers Youth Foundation
Corporate
Los Angeles County, California, Orange County, California +3 more
US $1,000 - US $20,000
The Lakers Youth Foundation offers quarterly grants aimed at empowering underserved youth through education, health, wellness, and sports programs. Grants range from $1,000 to $20,000, and applicants must detail how funds will be utilized. Eligible organizations must have operated for at least two years and cannot exceed 50% of the project's budget in requested funding. The Foundation excludes funding for individuals, private foundations, and new programs.
Youth Services Youth Development & Leadership Educational Access & Equity +2 more

1889 Foundation Sponsorship Inquiries

1889 Foundation Inc
Private
Cambria County, Pennsylvania, Somerset County, Pennsylvania
Up to US $500
The 1889 Foundation offers selective sponsorship for educational events in Cambria and Somerset Counties, aiming to enhance community health. Eligible projects must promote the Foundation's focus areas, involve multiple community partners, and demonstrate substantial community support. Organizations must be U.S. tax-exempt non-profits with a proven financial stewardship record. The maximum sponsorship is $500 per year, and requests should be submitted in writing with supporting documentation.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Health Care Access & Delivery Wellness & Healthy Living +2 more

Imogene Coca Compassion in Care Scholarship

Delaware Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,000
The Imogene Coca Compassion in Care Scholarship, offered by the Delaware Community Foundation, aims to support Delaware residents pursuing degrees in nursing or medical fields. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and either have been employed for at least five years or hold an Associate's degree from a community college. This one-time award of $2,000 is part of DCF's broader commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and equity in Delaware.
Education - Higher Education Nursing Medical Education & Professional Training +2 more

Park & Trail Partnership Grants: Capacity and Organizational Effectiveness Grants

Parks & Trails New York
Private
New York
Up to US $200,000
The Park & Trail Partnership Grants program provides up to $100,000 to enhance the preservation and promotion of New York State's parks and trails. This capacity-building initiative supports organizations in improving their effectiveness and sustainability while promoting outdoor recreation and tourism. Eligible projects include strategic planning, training, and membership expansion. A 10% match is required, fostering collaboration among non-profits, ensuring diverse support for public lands.
Parks & Public Spaces Historic Preservation Trail Creation & Maintenance +2 more

TeenWorks Scholarship

Central Indiana Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The TeenWorks Scholarship, offered by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, supports Indiana residents participating in TeenWorks programs. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship can be used for educational expenses at accredited institutions, including tuition, required fees, and books. Preference is given to applicants attending Indiana schools. The scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for students committed to their academic success.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +2 more

Athen Community Foundation Fall Cycle

Athens County Foundation
Private
Athens County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Athens County Foundation Grant supports local organizations by providing funding for projects that enhance economic vitality, community well-being, and collaboration. With a focus on sustainable change, the foundation encourages initiatives that meet the evolving needs of Athens County residents. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, with a one-year timeline for project completion. This grant cycle provides a vital opportunity to foster a healthier, more inclusive community.
Education Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights Senior Services +4 more

Fish Family Foundation of Maine Grants

Fish Family Foundation of Maine
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Mission

The Fish Family Foundation of Maine is a faith based charitable organization located in Bangor, Maine. Founded in 2007, our mission is to provide resources for many initiatives including, but not limited to, missions, education scholarships, ministries, medical research, and employment creation. The Fish Family Foundation of Maine is primarily funded by the family. However, contributions from like minded individuals and organizations is appreciated. The Fish Family Foundation of Maine has a balanced strategy of making funds available for immediate needs, while also investing to build a perpetual earning endowment ensuring the Foundation's successful future.

Missions:

We support needs of missionary organizations including sponsorships for young people who wish to attend youth group sponsored mission trips. We ordinarily make one time contributions but on occasion have made up to a three year commitment. 

Education/Scholarships:

The Foundation makes scholarships available to Colleges, Universities, and other Schools for student enrollment and expenses. We also consider new construction, existing renovation, equipment, and support material contributions.

Independent Churches and Ministries:

We accept a wide variety of requests, including, but not limited to: materials, equipment, new construction, renovations, programs, and services. 

Medical Research:

We support medical research opportunities close to our hearts and organizations that our family and friends have experienced. 

Job Creation:

We Support organizations that fund entrepreneurs in impoverished areas to start small businesses providing services and employment to the community.

Requests are considered by the trustees the first week of each month. Foundation payments are made by paper check in US dollars and are reported to the appropriate tax agencies. While we certainly wish that we could contribute to all the applications that meet our funding criteria, there are times when when available funding is limited and we are not able to contribute to some very worthy causes. If we are not in a position to help in the timeline requested, we will keep the information on file for possible consideration in the future. 

Volunteerism & Philanthropy Academic Scholarship Programs Education +3 more

Robert L. Johnson Memorial Research Grant

Midwest Aquatic Plant Management Society
Association/Society
Canada, Mexico +1 more
Up to US $10,000
The Robert L. Johnson Memorial Research Grant, offered by the Midwest Aquatic Plant Management Society, supports graduate students in aquatic plant management with grants of up to $10,000. This initiative promotes research that advances the management of aquatic ecosystems and fosters educational opportunities. Recipients are required to present their findings at the annual conference, contributing to the society's mission of sustainable aquatic resource management and ecological preservation.
Plant Science Environmental Conservation Marine / Ocean Conservation +1 more

Periodic Paralysis Grant

Patient Advocate Foundation
Private
U.S. Territories, United States
US $750 - US $1,500
The Periodic Paralysis Grant, offered by the Patient Advocate Foundation, assists individuals diagnosed with periodic paralysis in managing out-of-pocket healthcare costs. Eligible applicants must be in treatment or planning to begin treatment for this rare muscle disease. The fund covers various expenses, including medication copays and insurance premiums, ensuring that patients can afford essential care. With a mission to empower and support patients, this grant plays a crucial role in navigating healthcare challenges.
Rare Diseases Health Care Access & Delivery Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health +1 more

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH) Grant

Patient Advocate Foundation
Private
U.S. Territories, United States
US $6,900 - US $9,500

About Patient Advocate Foundation

Patient Advocate Foundation is the nation’s most comprehensive nonprofit dedicated to helping patients navigate, access, and afford the care they need—while improving the healthcare system for all.

Who we are and our impact

Patient Advocate Foundation provides financial assistance to help patients afford treatment and cost of living needs, personalized case management to navigate complex healthcare and social needs challenges, and a wide array of resources to empower people to take charge of their health. Since our founding in 1996—and joining forces with the PAN Foundation in 2026—we have helped 3.8 million patients navigate and access care, granted over $7 billion in financial assistance, served 350,000 people through personalized case management and elevated the patient’s voice to drive improvements in the healthcare system.

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH)

Help with healthcare costs for Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH)

This TotalAssist fund helps you pay for out-of-pocket healthcare costs, including medication copays, coinsurance, and deductibles, health insurance premiums, and other expenses.

About the disease

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH), also known as Marchiafava– Micheli syndrome, is a rare disease that is characterized by impaired bone marrow function and destruction of red blood cells. PNH is a rare disease that affects the circulatory system.

Rare Diseases Health Care Access & Delivery Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health +1 more

Hyperkalemia Grant

Patient Advocate Foundation
Private
U.S. Territories, United States
US $1,800 - US $3,600
The Hyperkalemia Grant, provided by the Patient Advocate Foundation, offers crucial financial assistance to patients struggling with hyperkalemia. This grant covers out-of-pocket healthcare costs, including medication copays and health insurance premiums. Eligible applicants must have a confirmed diagnosis and meet specific income and residency requirements. Since its inception, the foundation has supported millions of patients, ensuring they can access the necessary treatment and resources for their health needs.
Cardiovascular Diseases & Systems Health Care Access & Delivery Chronic Illnesses +1 more

Two Oaks Scholarship

Central Indiana Community Foundation
Private
Marion County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Two Oaks Scholarship, offered by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, supports Ivy Tech Community College graduates who plan to pursue a bachelor's degree at IUPUI. Eligible applicants must graduate with an associate degree, demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and pursue a degree in a helping profession such as nursing, teaching, or social work. This scholarship aims to foster a community of opportunity and service.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs College Success / Persistence +4 more

Wallach Scholarship Fund

Central Indiana Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Wallach Scholarship Fund, managed by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, provides financial assistance to high school students and those with equivalent credentials from Marion, Hamilton, Hancock, and Henry counties. This fund aims to support individuals facing financial need or barriers to education, enabling them to pursue post-secondary credentials. Awards cover educational expenses such as tuition and fees, with a preference for applicants maintaining a 3.0 GPA. The initiative fosters educational opportunity for all.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education Academic Scholarship Programs +2 more

Innovative Services for Students with Autism, Cycle 3, Year 1

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
US $236,000 - US $1,000,000

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) administers federal and state grant awards to its subgrantees to carry out a program. Such entities include primarily school systems (referred to as local educational agencies [LEAs] in statutes), including independent school districts and charter schools; education service centers (ESCs); and, to a lesser degree, institutions of higher education (IHEs), nonprofit organizations (NPOs), and other statutorily allowable organizations.

Innovative Services for Students with Autism, Cycle 3, Year 1

Program Description

This initiative will provide funding for Texas school systems to implement innovative services that improve functional and/or academic outcomes for students with autism. The project will result in effective, scalable models that can be replicated in other areas of the state.

Academic Success & Enrichment Autism Education - K through 12 +1 more

Amscot Grant

Amscot Corporation
Corporate
Brevard County, Florida, Broward County, Florida +19 more
Unspecified amount
The Amscot Grant aims to enhance opportunities for Florida's children by supporting local 501(c)(3) organizations. By funding initiatives focused on education, enrichment, and safety, Amscot seeks to empower children and families in communities where it operates. Organizations are encouraged to share their stories and demonstrate how funding will help them create brighter futures. This commitment aligns with Amscot's mission to foster stronger communities across the state.
Educational Access & Equity Academic Success & Enrichment Tutoring & Mentoring +2 more

Hypercholesterolemia Grant

Patient Advocate Foundation
Private
U.S. Territories, United States
US $1,900 - US $3,800
The Hypercholesterolemia Grant by the Patient Advocate Foundation offers financial assistance to individuals diagnosed with hypercholesterolemia, helping cover out-of-pocket healthcare costs such as medication copays and insurance premiums. This nonprofit aims to improve patient access to necessary care while supporting over 3.8 million patients since its inception. Eligible applicants must have health insurance and meet specific income requirements to receive assistance in managing their healthcare expenses effectively.
Health Care Access & Delivery Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health Chronic Illnesses +1 more

ABPN Dorthea Juul, PhD, Education Research Award

American Board Of Psychiatry and Neurology, Inc.
Private
United States
Up to US $100,000
The ABPN Dorthea Juul, PhD, Education Research Award offers up to $100,000 for research projects aligned with the ABPN's mission of enhancing lifelong learning and certification standards for psychiatrists and neurologists. Two awards each in psychiatry and neurology are available annually, with projects lasting up to two years. Eligible applicants must hold faculty appointments or have confirmed offers, comply with conflict of interest policies, and, if MDs or DOs, maintain ABPN certification and licensure.
Neuroscience Neurological Diseases & Disorders Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases +1 more

Alkermes Pathways Research Awards

Alkermes
Corporate
United States
Up to US $100,000
The Alkermes Pathways Research Awards program aims to foster research in neuroscience, specifically targeting schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. With grants up to $100,000, it supports early-career investigators exploring critical areas, including sleep and circadian disturbances related to these conditions. This initiative addresses the urgent need for innovative solutions in mental health research, empowering the next generation of scientists to make impactful contributions in understanding and treating these complex disorders.
Schizophrenia Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Sleep

Scotiabank Corporate Giving Program: ScotiaRISE

Scotiabank
Corporate
Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba +29 more
Unspecified amount
The ScotiaRISE initiative by Scotiabank aims to foster economic resilience among disadvantaged groups over ten years, with a budget of $500 million. By focusing on enhancing educational opportunities, facilitating employment for newcomers, and removing barriers to career advancement, ScotiaRISE seeks to create a more inclusive society. This program highlights the importance of collective efforts in supporting individuals and communities to thrive, ensuring everyone has the chance to rise above challenges and contribute positively to their environments.
Economic Services & Development Education - High School Educational Access & Equity +1 more

GA Arts: Vibrant Communities Grant

Georgia Council for the Arts
State/Local Government
Appling County, Georgia, Atkinson County, Georgia +110 more
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The GA Arts: Vibrant Communities Grant, funded by the Georgia Council for the Arts, aims to enhance arts programs across Georgia. This reimbursement grant supports diverse projects, including concerts, theater productions, and art classes, aiming to reach as many counties as possible. Additionally, in response to COVID-19, online programs are now eligible for funding. Organizations must first incur expenses before requesting reimbursement to promote sustainable arts initiatives in their communities.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation Public / Community Art Art Education +4 more

Three Lakes Community Foundation: Long Form Grants (over $1000)

Three Lakes Community Foundation
Association/Society
Oneida County, Wisconsin
More than US $1,000
The Three Lakes Community Foundation, established in 2013, supports initiatives that enhance community life in Three Lakes. With over $120,000 in grants awarded, the foundation aims to foster partnerships among local nonprofits and enhance services in education, health, and the arts. They invite grant requests from organized groups, ensuring a focus on projects that benefit the public and uphold community values. The foundation prioritizes innovative ideas that differentiate Three Lakes from other communities.
Economic Services & Development Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health Educational Access & Equity +3 more

Three Lakes Community Foundation: Short Form Grants (under $1000)

Three Lakes Community Foundation
Association/Society
Oneida County, Wisconsin
Up to US $1,000
The Three Lakes Community Foundation, established in 2013, provides Short Form Grants under $1000 to support local innovative projects. These grants aim to enhance community quality of life, support education, arts, and community development, and foster collaboration among local nonprofits. Eligible applicants include local nonprofits, schools, and government entities. The Foundation prioritizes projects that promote community efficiency and distinguish Three Lakes from other areas, ensuring the longevity and vibrancy of the community.
Educational Access & Equity Recreation Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health +3 more

Direct Investment in Students (DIS) Grant

District of Columbia Office of the State Superintendent of Education
State/Local Government
District of Columbia
Up to US $1,000,000

Direct Investment in Students Grant

Purpose of Funds

Through this RFA, OSSE is soliciting proposals for the Direct Investment in Students grant program from LEAs to launch eligible direct student services. For conciseness, these services will henceforth be referenced and referred to using the following description:

In addition, a local education agency receiving an award may:

  • use not more than 1 percent of its award for outreach and communication to parents about available direct student services in the local educational agency and State; and
  • use not more than 2 percent of its award for administrative costs related to such direct student services.
Academic Success & Enrichment Tutoring & Mentoring Educational Access & Equity +1 more

The Kids Trust Fund Grant

The Foundation for Enhancing Communities
Private
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania +5 more
Up to US $10,000
The Kids Trust Fund Grant aims to support nonprofit organizations focused on helping children aged 0-18 who have suffered from abuse or neglect. Established in memory of Gary L. Houck, Jr., this fund encourages innovative programs that enhance existing services and empower affected families. Eligible activities include therapeutic recreation, early intervention, and mental health services. The foundation seeks collaborative solutions that yield measurable outcomes, ensuring long-term support for these vulnerable children.
Child Abuse & Neglect Family Services Children’s Mental Health

Arts Fund: Specialty Field Scholarships - AFNGA AusArt Scholarship

American Australian Association
Private
United States
US $30,000
The AFNGA AusArt Scholarship, offered by the American Australian Association, supports Australian graduate students in fine arts or related fields for one year of artistic development in the US. With funding of US $30,000, recipients can cover travel, living, and tuition costs. Eligible applicants must be Australian citizens or permanent residents, emerging artists, and have a formal offer from an accredited US institution. This scholarship fosters cultural exchange and artistic growth between Australia and the US.
Art Conservation Fine Art Art History +3 more

John E. and Ruth L. Fisher Scholarship

Central Indiana Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The John E. and Ruth L. Fisher Scholarship, provided by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors and past graduates of Noblesville High School under the age of 30. This scholarship aims to foster educational opportunities for students demonstrating financial need, covering expenses for various accredited postsecondary programs, including vocational and technical schools. Preference is given to students of color, enhancing diversity and inclusion in education.
Vocational & Trade Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +2 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.

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.