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Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

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

33,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

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Filters

32,595 Results based on applied filters

Kids' Chance NM Scholarship Renewal Application

Kids’ Chance of New Mexico
Association/Society
Wisconsin
US $500 - US $5,000
The Kids' Chance NM Scholarship Renewal Application provides financial support to students whose parents have suffered work-related injuries or fatalities. Eligible applicants must be between 17 to 24 years old, maintain a GPA of 2.5, and be enrolled in an accredited educational institution. The scholarship covers tuition, books, housing, and other educational expenses, ensuring that students affected by family tragedies receive the help they need to further their education.
College Success / Persistence Education - Higher Education Disability Care & Services +2 more

Margaret and Peter Chang Foundation Grant

Margaret and Peter Chang Foundation
Private
Union County, New Jersey
Unspecified amount
The Margaret and Peter Chang Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving the health and well-being of children in the Scotch Plains, NJ area. Applications are reviewed quarterly on a rolling basis, providing flexibility for applicants. This foundation aims to make a positive impact on local communities by funding initiatives that enhance children's lives, ensuring that support reaches those who need it most.
Children’s Mental Health Children’s Health & Pediatrics Children With Disabilities

Women's Fund of Greater Green Bay

Greater Green Bay Community Foundation
Private
Brown County, Wisconsin, Kewaunee County, Wisconsin +1 more
Up to US $20,000
The Women's Fund of Greater Green Bay empowers women and girls by providing grants to programs that promote health, safety, education, and leadership. Since 1995, over $1.5 million has been awarded to support initiatives addressing the unique challenges faced by women and girls in Northeast Wisconsin. The Fund seeks proposals that demonstrate measurable community impact and involve participants in their design and execution, fostering self-esteem and collaboration.
Women & Girl Services Women's Health Domestic Violence +1 more

Child Neurology Foundation Summer Scholarship For Medical Students

Child Neurology Foundation
Corporate
Canada, United States
US $3,500
The Child Neurology Foundation offers a Summer Scholarship for first, second, or third-year medical students interested in neurodevelopmental disabilities or child neurology. This scholarship provides $3,500 for clinical research focused on neurodevelopmental disabilities in children or young adults, conducted under the supervision of a qualified subspecialist. Applications are evaluated based on their importance, originality, and contribution to the medical student's development.
Neurological Diseases & Disorders Children’s Health & Pediatrics Children With Disabilities +1 more

TANF Employment & Training Program - Job Placement with Retention Program

Illinois Department of Human Services: Division of Family & Community Services
State/Local Government
Franklin County, Illinois, Jackson County, Illinois +2 more
US $250,000 - US $290,000
The TANF Employment & Training Program - Job Placement with Retention Program provides essential support for TANF clients seeking employment. Operated by the Illinois Department of Human Services, it ensures clients engage in structured work and training activities aligned with federal guidelines. The program aims to enhance participants' skills and facilitate their transition into competitive employment through various countable activities, including work experience, vocational training, and job readiness activities.
Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Employment Services Adult Education

Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant (UORG): Mini-Grant

Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation
State/Local Government
Utah
US $5,000 - US $30,000

Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant

The Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant (UORG) is for new outdoor recreation infrastructure projects and helps communities build recreation amenities that support local economic development, tourism, and quality of life improvements for Utah’s residents.

Introduction

The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation (DOR) is committed to ensuring every Utahn can live a healthy and active lifestyle through outdoor recreation and access to natural space. The DOR focuses on four key areas: expanding recreational access, promoting safety and education, ensuring responsible stewardship and sustainable visitation, and driving economic growth through outdoor recreation.

With our grant programs, we support local communities in achieving these goals and are thrilled to offer five grants under the Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant (UORG) Program in 2026.

Mini Grant

Ideal for smaller projects

Outdoor Recreation Tourism Outdoor Equity +2 more

Ted Kohler Music Scholarship

Napa Valley Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Napa Valley Community Foundation

There are more than 800 Community Foundations in the US, each devoted to a specific region. We operate independently, with a common goal in mind: to be a platform for local people who want to pay it forward. To deliver resources to effective charitable programs. And to make our communities stronger and more successful by doing these two things.

Among our peers, Napa Valley Community Foundation ranks first on several key measures of donor satisfaction and impact, according to a recent donor survey conducted by the Center for Effective Philanthropy. Our donors say that we deeply understand their interests, and deeply understand the needs of Napa Valley. That, in a nutshell, is our job.

Ted Kohler Music Scholarship

The Ted Kohler Music Scholarship benefits Calistoga students who are committed to music and wish to advance their musical development. The scholarship can be used to pay for activities such as music lessons or summer camp, or for college tuition (where the student demonstrates their desire to continue their musical education). The Ted Kohler Scholarship was established in 1997 to promote musical participation and aspirations in honor of Ted, who upon retirement from San Francisco State University, became a full-time musician and leader of the Napa Valley Jazz Band. He encouraged people of all ages to express themselves musically.

Academic Scholarship Programs After School / Summer Educational Programs Summer Camps +1 more

Robert W. and Martha D. Casciani Scholarship

Ashland County Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Robert W. and Martha D. Casciani Scholarship, managed by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools who have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and are pursuing degrees in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering at accredited colleges outside the county. This scholarship honors the legacy of Robert and Martha Casciani, who were committed to their community and education, encouraging future generations to achieve their academic goals.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Education - High School +3 more

El Futuro Educational Scholarship

Napa Valley Community Foundation
Private
Napa County, California, Sonoma County, California
US $5,000 - US $15,000

Napa Valley Community Foundation

There are more than 800 Community Foundations in the US, each devoted to a specific region. We operate independently, with a common goal in mind: to be a platform for local people who want to pay it forward. To deliver resources to effective charitable programs. And to make our communities stronger and more successful by doing these two things.

Among our peers, Napa Valley Community Foundation ranks first on several key measures of donor satisfaction and impact, according to a recent donor survey conducted by the Center for Effective Philanthropy. Our donors say that we deeply understand their interests, and deeply understand the needs of Napa Valley. That, in a nutshell, is our job.

El Futuro Educational Scholarship

El Futuro Educational Scholarship is made possible in partnership with the Moulds Family and the Farmworker Foundation and benefits Napa County residents studying for an associate degree in viticulture and/or enology at Napa Valley College or Santa Rosa Junior College. This scholarship is geared towards students that demonstrate a drive and ambition to succeed in their community, school, or work-related functions. Recipients of the scholarship will receive funding for up to three years while working to complete their associate degree.

Academic Scholarship Programs College Success / Persistence Viticulture

New Bedford Day Nursery Grant

New Bedford Day Nursery Fund
Private
Bristol County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The New Bedford Day Nursery Fund provides essential support for educational and social initiatives aimed at young residents in the Greater New Bedford Area. With a focus on cultural enrichment, the fund backs diverse projects such as summer sailing programs, academic tutoring, and STEAM activities. Eligible nonprofit organizations can apply for grants to enhance children's development, ensuring that all children, regardless of their backgrounds, have access to valuable learning experiences.
Education - Preschool / Early Learning Education - K through 12 Academic Success & Enrichment +3 more

Community Network Anchors RFA

Illinois Department of Public Health
State/Local Government
Illinois
Up to US $150,000
The Community Network Anchors RFA aims to strengthen existing Community Networks by fostering collaboration among diverse partners, including mental health providers, schools, and advocacy groups. This initiative is designed to enhance the well-being of families, helping them access essential resources to thrive and mitigate crises. Grant recipients will build on existing materials provided by IDPH and CBHTI, engaging in regular meetings to ensure a robust support system in their communities.
Wellness & Healthy Living Family Services Crisis Intervention +1 more

Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant (UORG): Regional Asset Tier Grant

Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation
State/Local Government
Utah
US $500,001 - US $1,000,000

Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant

The Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant (UORG) is for new outdoor recreation infrastructure projects and helps communities build recreation amenities that support local economic development, tourism, and quality of life improvements for Utah’s residents.

Introduction

The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation (DOR) is committed to ensuring every Utahn can live a healthy and active lifestyle through outdoor recreation and access to natural space. The DOR focuses on four key areas: expanding recreational access, promoting safety and education, ensuring responsible stewardship and sustainable visitation, and driving economic growth through outdoor recreation.

With our grant programs, we support local communities in achieving these goals and are thrilled to offer five grants under the Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant (UORG) Program in 2026.

Regional Asset Tier Grant

Regionally significant projects. All submissions at this level require a presentation to the grant committee.

Large projects that have a regional draw, bringing economic and tourism benefits through increased visitation and resident retention. Applicants will be required to give a 10 minute in-person or virtual presentation to the scoring committee. The required match for Urban communities is 1:1, while Rural is county-based (see table on page 4 for more information). Attribution signage is mandatory for all completed projects.

Outdoor Recreation Environmental Stewardship Public Infrastructure +2 more

Clay Minerals Society: Student Travel Award

Clay Minerals Society
Private
Ireland
Up to US $1,500
The Clay Minerals Society offers a Student Travel Award to support students attending its annual meeting. This award provides partial funding for intracontinental and intercontinental travel, along with coverage for meeting registration, field trips, and lodging. Applications are judged competitively, with no restrictions on nationality or gender. Students may apply for both the travel award and research grant in one year, but can receive a maximum of two awards each.
Geology Mineralogy Soil Science +2 more

Clay Minerals Society Marilyn and Sturges W. Bailey Distinguished Member Award

Clay Minerals Society
Private
Ireland
US $2,000
The Clay Minerals Society Marilyn and Sturges W. Bailey Distinguished Member Award honors outstanding contributions to clay mineralogy through original research. This prestigious recognition is awarded solely based on scientific merit, without consideration for teaching or administrative service. The award includes a $2000 honorarium and waived registration for the Annual Conference, where the recipient will present a plenary lecture. Nominees may be renominated after three years, ensuring a fair evaluation process.
Mineralogy Geology Soil Science +2 more

Marion L. and Chrystie M. Jackson Mid-Career Clay Scientist Award

Clay Minerals Society
Private
Ireland
US $2,000
The Marion L. and Chrystie M. Jackson Mid-Career Clay Scientist Award recognizes mid-career scientists for their significant contributions to clay minerals science. Awarded by the Clay Minerals Society (CMS), it includes a $2000 honorarium and a waived conference registration. Candidates must be aged 39-60 and full members of CMS. The selection is made by the CMS Awards Committee, with a decision announced at the Annual Meeting, where the awardee is expected to present a plenary lecture.
Geology Mineralogy Soil Science +2 more

Newton E. & Hester G. Dilgard Memorial Scholarship

Ashland County Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Newton E. & Hester G. Dilgard Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools with a minimum GPA of 2.75. This scholarship honors the legacy of Newton E. Dilgard, a self-made business leader and advocate for education, promoting the pursuit of excellence in chosen fields. It aims to assist students in attending accredited colleges or universities, reinforcing the foundation's commitment to community development.
Education - Higher Education Mechanical Engineering Chemical Engineering +3 more

The Weitz Company Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors.

The Weitz Company Scholarship Fund

Can go to college or vocational school with a major or emphasis in one of the following fields of study:

  • Architecture
  • Civil Engineering
  • Construction Management
  • Interior Design
  • Other Construction-related fields (e.g., construction project management, mechanical/electrical engineering and trades).
Architecture Civil Engineering Electrical Engineering +3 more

Mental Wellness Grants

Community Foundation of White County (CFWC)
Association/Society
Indiana
Up to US $75,000

About Us

Community Foundation of White County

Your community foundation is a philanthropic, nonprofit 501c3 organization that partners with visionary donors who believe that philanthropy has power to positively transform our White County community … forever.

To strengthen and transform our White County community by fostering charitable giving, philanthropic aspirations, and leadership.

Grants Available

Mental Wellness Grants

Through this grant cycle, $75,000 is available to non-profit organizations serving White County with a focus on mental wellness initiatives. Awards to be announced 10/30/26.

Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Youth Services Health Care Access & Delivery +2 more

DCNR All-Terrain Vehicle and Snowmobile Grant Program

Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR)
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
US $25,000 - US $1,000,000
The DCNR All-Terrain Vehicle and Snowmobile Grant Program supports projects that enhance Pennsylvania's outdoor recreation. Eligible applicants include municipalities and pre-qualified organizations focused on ATV and snowmobile trails. The grant covers land acquisition, planning, development, maintenance, and educational programs, promoting safety and environmental protection. Funding is sourced from the ATV and Snowmobile Management Restricted Accounts, encouraging community conservation and responsible enjoyment of natural resources.
Outdoor Recreation Trail Creation & Maintenance Environmental Conservation +1 more

Charter School Facilities Credit Enhancement Grant Program (California, 2026)

California State Treasurer's Office
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The Charter School Facilities Credit Enhancement Grant Program in California aims to lower financing costs for charter schools by providing grants for debt service reserve accounts on bond transactions. This federally-funded initiative helps reduce borrowing costs, allowing schools to access funds for facility acquisition, renovation, or construction. With a maximum award limit of $2,000,000 per financing, this program is designed to support the financial stability of charter schools across the state.
Education - K through 12 Education - Middle School Education - High School +1 more

Bon Secours: Partnership Requests - Event Sponsorship Requests Grant

Bon Secours Richmond Healthcare Foundation
Private
Richmond City, Virginia, Richmond County, Virginia
Unspecified amount
The Bon Secours Richmond Healthcare Foundation provides support through its Event Sponsorship Requests Grant, aimed at enhancing community health and well-being. Applications are accepted monthly, with a recommendation to apply at least six months prior to the event. This initiative emphasizes partnerships that build healthier neighborhoods and tackle social determinants of health, reflecting the foundation's commitment to serving the underserved and improving quality of life for all.
Wellness & Healthy Living Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health Community Health Education +3 more

The O'Jays Scholarship Fund

Stark Community Foundation
Private
United States
More than US $500
The O'Jays Scholarship Fund, established by the Stark Community Foundation, supports Stark County seniors graduating high school or residents with a GED pursuing higher education. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate financial need. This initiative reflects the Foundation's long-standing commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and addressing community challenges since its inception in 1963. The program aims to empower students to achieve their academic goals and improve their futures.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education Education - High School +2 more

Employer Training Grant - Early Childhood Education

Indiana Department of Workforce Development
State/Local Government
Indiana
Up to US $50,000
The Employer Training Grant for Early Childhood Education, offered by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development, supports Hoosier employers in training and retaining staff in high-demand sectors. With reimbursements up to $50,000, the grant focuses on job skills training that aligns with eligible occupations and requires at least 40 hours of training. Employers must ensure new hires earn a minimum wage of $19 per hour and existing employees receive a 5% wage increase post-training.
Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Education - Preschool / Early Learning Child Care Services

Ariel Foundation Grants

The Ariel Foundation
Private
Knox County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Ariel Foundation Grants support initiatives that enhance the quality of life in Mount Vernon, Ohio. Funding is available in three categories: small grants (up to $5,000), large grants ($5,001 to $99,000), and major grants ($100,000 or more). Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities and governmental entities. The foundation emphasizes community preservation, arts, culture, education, and health, fostering collaboration with local organizations to achieve impactful results.
Community Culture & Heritage Historic Preservation Parks & Public Spaces +3 more

Game Changer Grants

Carolina Hurricanes Foundation
Corporate
North Carolina
US $5,000 - US $15,000
The Game Changer Grants, offered by the Carolina Hurricanes Foundation, aim to empower nonprofit organizations to create positive grassroots impacts in the community. With funding levels of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000, these grants support initiatives focused on health and education for underserved populations in North Carolina. Organizations must demonstrate their commitment by meeting specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status and a minimum of three years of operation. Reapplications are encouraged for declined proposals.
Hockey Youth Development & Leadership Educational Access & Equity +1 more

Arts Education School Partnership Programs

William Penn Foundation
Private
Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The William Penn Foundation's Arts Education School Partnership Programs aim to enhance student success in Philadelphia by increasing access to diverse, hands-on arts education led by skilled teaching artists. With a focus on youth engagement and creativity, these programs are designed for children aged 5-18 and strive to create safe spaces for self-expression and personal development. This initiative addresses the disparities in arts education access for low-income families, promoting social-emotional skills and critical thinking through innovative learning experiences.
Art Education Education - K through 12 Youth Development & Leadership +2 more

International Institute Funds Mini-Grant

Community Foundation Of Mahoning Valley
Private
Mahoning County, Ohio, Trumbull County, Ohio
Up to US $500
The International Institute Funds Mini-Grant, offered by the Community Foundation of Mahoning Valley, provides grants of $500 or less to organizations in Mahoning and Trumbull counties aimed at preserving and promoting cultural heritage. Eligible activities include music, dance, art, food, and education. The foundation supports public charities as defined by the IRS and encourages collaborative efforts to enhance community well-being while ensuring integrity in resource management.
Community Culture & Heritage Historic Preservation Music +3 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.