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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

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$9.00B total
$6K median

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32,423 Results based on applied filters

CAPTRUST Crisis Grants

CAPTRUST Community Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The CAPTRUST Community Foundation provides Crisis Grants to support nonprofit organizations aiding families impacted by natural disasters or emergencies. By dedicating over 10% of its annual budget for crisis assistance, the foundation ensures that funds directly benefit those in need. Grants can be requested up to $5,000 to help rebuild lives during challenging times, reflecting the foundation's commitment to integrity and support for children and families in crisis.
Family Services Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Crisis Intervention +1 more

The Cailloux Foundation Grant

Floyd A & Kathleen C Cailloux Foundation
Private
Bandera County, Texas, Edwards County, Texas +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Cailloux Foundation Grant supports tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Kerr and surrounding counties, focusing on civic engagement, education, health, and animal welfare. The foundation seeks projects that demonstrate innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, with no deadline for inquiries. Grants are not available for individual scholarships or general operations, ensuring funds are directed towards impactful community initiatives.
Civic Affairs Animal Welfare - General Health & Medicine +5 more

CKCF’s Youth Sports Fund of Grayson County - Spring Baseball, Soccer & Softball

Central Kentucky Community Foundation
Private
Grayson County, Kentucky
Unspecified amount
The CKCF’s Youth Sports Fund of Grayson County provides scholarships for youth in Grayson County to participate in recreational Baseball, Soccer, and Softball, ensuring every child has the opportunity to engage in sports, regardless of financial circumstances. Applications are accepted for one season and are evaluated based on need. Scholarships cover registration fees and sports equipment, but do not include travel expenses or tournament fees. Funding is limited, and assistance is not guaranteed for all applicants.
Recreation Youth Services Sports & Athletics +3 more

Hibbing Foundation Grant

Hibbing Foundation
Association/Society
St. Louis County, Minnesota
Unspecified amount

About Us

Hibbing Foundation, an affiliate fund of Minnesota Community Foundation, allows people to join their charitable dollars for the common good our community. Our funds are not the result of a single person's or corporation's giving; they represent hundreds of donors and organizations that care about Hibbing, Minnesota.

Hibbing Foundation provides flexibility to a broad community agenda - granting to the nonprofit community and developing and enhancing new projects and initiatives in the community.

Since 1993, the Hibbing Foundation has been connecting community members, nonprofit organizations and other partners to strengthen Hibbing through charitable giving. Because the Foundation's future depends upon the generosity of donors, we are inspiring new generations of donors to nurture Hibbing and support its community foundation.

Grants

Hibbing Foundation, an affiliate fund of Minnesota Community Foundation was established with the purpose of providing leadership and financial resources to foster the social, cultural, economic development, health, civic, educational and philanthropic activities of Hibbing by establishing and administering independent, community-supported endowment funds.

The Hibbing Foundation will entertain applicants within a geographic region bound by the Hibbing School District (ISD #701) and must be a viable 501(c)3 public charity. Non-profits whose home office is outside ISD #701 but their programs are based in Hibbing and benefit the community of Hibbing are eligible to apply.

Education Community Culture & Heritage Health & Medicine +4 more

CKCF’s Youth Sports Fund of Grayson County - Fall Baseball, Soccer, Softball

Central Kentucky Community Foundation
Private
Grayson County, Kentucky
Unspecified amount

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

Youth Sports Fund of Grayson County - Fall Football

CKCF’s Youth Sports Funds encourage and support youth participation in recreational sports, making these opportunities available to any player, regardless of their financial situation. Our Youth Sports Funds offers scholarships for families who need financial assistance for children to play sports.

Scholarships will be paid directly to the sports league, not to the individual participants. Funding is limited, and scholarships are not guaranteed to all applicants.

Recreation Youth Services Sports & Athletics +3 more

ADPHT Matching Grants

Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism - Office of Outdoor Recreation
State/Local Government
Arkansas
Unspecified amount
The ADPHT Matching Grants program aims to enhance Arkansas's outdoor recreation resources through advocacy and funded initiatives. This reimbursable matching grant supports communities in expanding local recreation opportunities. Administered by the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism, the program utilizes funds from the state Real Estate Transfer Tax to promote outdoor activities and improve recreational facilities.
Outdoor Equity Outdoor Recreation Parks & Public Spaces +3 more

Aspiring Educators CREATE Grants

National Education Association Staff Organization
Private
United States
Up to US $2,000
The Aspiring Educators CREATE Grants, funded by the National Education Association Staff Organization, offer up to $2000 to strengthen the AE Program and foster impactful partnerships. Grants focus on areas such as Educator Quality, Community Engagement, Political Action, and Social Justice. Eligible organizations include state AE chapters, and submissions are accepted three times a year. This initiative encourages aspiring educators to develop their skills and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Social Justice / Human Rights Education - K through 12 Educational Access & Equity +3 more

ADPHT Great Strides Program Grants (Trails for Life)

Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism - Office of Outdoor Recreation
State/Local Government
Arkansas
Up to US $250,000
The ADPHT Great Strides Program Grants aim to support Arkansas communities in creating smoke-free outdoor trails and recreational facilities. These no-match grants, administered by the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism, promote physical exercise and health. Funding is sourced from the state's Master Tobacco Settlement Award, reflecting a commitment to enhancing public health and outdoor access for all residents.
Outdoor Equity Outdoor Recreation Parks & Public Spaces +3 more

Dane G Hansen Community Grant for Ellsworth County

Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation
Private
Ellsworth County, Kansas
Unspecified amount
The Dane G. Hansen Community Grant supports charitable projects in Northwest Kansas, providing $50,000 annually for community initiatives. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and educational institutions in specified counties. Grants aim to enhance education, healthcare, economic development, and social services while prioritizing community engagement. The program, managed by the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation, will conclude in 2025, encouraging diverse projects that promote local well-being and sustainability.
Community Development & Revitalization Greening & Beautification Art & Culture +5 more

Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship: Undergraduate

Society Of Health And Physical Educators
Private
United States
US $1,250
The Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship is awarded annually by SHAPE America to honor outstanding undergraduate and graduate students in health and physical education. Established in 1995, this scholarship supports three undergraduate and two graduate recipients. Candidates must be SHAPE America members, majoring in relevant fields, and demonstrate academic excellence and leadership. In addition to financial support, recipients receive a three-year membership to SHAPE America, fostering a commitment to health education and physical activity.
Recreation Dance Wellness & Healthy Living +2 more

Community Traffic Safety Grants

National Safety Council
Private
United States
US $50,000 - US $200,000
The Community Traffic Safety Grants, initiated by the Road to Zero Coalition, aim to eliminate traffic fatalities by 2050 through innovative, evidence-based approaches. The program invites proposals from Road to Zero Coalition members, particularly non-profits and government entities, to implement effective countermeasures that enhance traffic safety and address mobility disparities. Projects should be replicable and scalable, demonstrating measurable outcomes and contributing to a positive safety culture on U.S. roads.
Community / Public Safety Pedestrian & Bike-Friendly Infrastructure Public Infrastructure

Lowndes Community Foundation (LCF) Grants

Lowndes Community Foundation (LCF)
Association/Society
Lowndes County, Mississippi
Unspecified amount

Lowndes Community Foundation (LCF) Grants

Meeting the needs of Columbus and Lowndes County Communities—one grant at a time.

Sustainable Grantmaking

Our mission is to improve the quality of life within Columbus and Lowndes County. As a public foundation, we have a special role to play in creating a sustainable source of funding to address the needs of our community. Rather than relying on yearly fundraising, we draw on the investment earnings of the LCF Endowment, reinvesting a percentage into our communities while the remaining funds continue generating revenue for future projects.

Funding Priorities

Our community guides our grantmaking. Through the LCF's periodic Community Conversations--public gatherings where hundreds of local citizens come together to review current data on the state of the city and county and to engage in a democratic, deliberative process to identify our most pressing needs--we've identified five priority areas. In addition to these priority areas, we generally support initiatives within three areas of interest:

  • Civic and Cultural (e.g., beautification, public good, performing arts)
  • Education and Human Development (e.g., tuition guarantee, GED, early childhood)
  • Health and Human Services (e.g., family enrichment, emergency response)
Education Health & Medicine Performing Arts +5 more

Virginia Special Events and Festivals Grant Program

Virginia Tourism Corporation
State/Local Government
Virginia
Up to US $20,000
The Virginia Special Events and Festivals Grant Program, offered by the Virginia Tourism Corporation, supports marketing and production for established events with significant local economic impact. Eligible events must have a minimum attendance of 500 and two years of prior attendance since 2022. Awards range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on attendance tiers. Preference is given to events with substantial local cash or in-kind match, fostering community engagement and tourism growth.
Tourism Music Festivals Art & Culture

IBD Research

Kenneth Rainin Foundation
Private
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $150,000 - US $300,000
The Kenneth Rainin Foundation seeks to promote innovative research in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) by encouraging diverse perspectives from early career investigators and those underrepresented in science. The Innovator Awards do not require preliminary data and are evaluated based on the potential for innovation and scientific merit. Eligible researchers must hold advanced degrees and can apply for funding through their home institutions, fostering groundbreaking ideas that can transform IBD treatment and prevention.
Health & Medicine Digestive System Health & Diseases Crohn’s Disease And Colitis

Rural Community Development Initiative Grants

US Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Federal Government
Georgia (US state)
US $50,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Community Development Initiative Grants aim to support non-profit organizations, low-income rural communities, and federally recognized tribes in enhancing housing and community facilities. These grants can be utilized for training sub-grantees in homeownership and business entrepreneurship education, as well as providing technical assistance on strategic planning and alternative funding. Eligible recipients include public bodies and organizations in areas with populations under 50,000, ensuring community development in rural settings.
Rural Development Equitable & Affordable Housing Community Development & Revitalization

NICF: Miami County Grants - Micro Grant

Northern Indiana Community Foundation
Private
Miami County, Indiana
Up to US $2,500
The NICF Micro Grant program offers funding up to $2,000 for projects in Miami County, Indiana, with no application deadlines. Target areas include education, health, arts, environmental initiatives, and community development. The program prioritizes projects that reach underserved communities and foster collaboration. However, it does not support ongoing operating budgets or projects solely funded by the foundation. This initiative aims to stimulate innovative solutions to community needs, encouraging self-sustainability and effective charitable organizations.
Art & Culture Education Recreation +5 more

NICF: Miami County Grants - Community Support Grant

Northern Indiana Community Foundation
Private
Miami County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The NICF: Miami County Grants - Community Support Grant aims to support various community projects in Miami County, offering funding from several hundred to thousands of dollars. These grants have no application deadline and prioritize initiatives in education, health, human services, arts and culture, environmental efforts, community development, recreation, and youth development. The foundation encourages innovative projects that address unmet community needs and foster collaboration among organizations.
Art & Culture Education Recreation +5 more

Grants for Organizations: Program Support

Broward County Cultural Division
State/Local Government
Broward County, Florida
Up to US $15,000
The Broward County Cultural Division offers a Program Support grant aimed at funding high-quality artistic projects by both arts and non-arts organizations. This grant encourages diverse activities that enhance community engagement and accessibility to the arts. Applicants can propose new or ongoing projects of any size, including events like festivals or singular artistic endeavors. The initiative seeks to broaden audience participation and enrich the cultural landscape of Broward County.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation Art & Culture Performing Arts +1 more

City of Alexandria: Annual Arts Program Grant

City of Alexandria
State/Local Government
Alexandria City, Virginia
Up to US $10,000
The City of Alexandria offers Annual Arts Program Grants to enhance access to quality arts initiatives for residents and visitors. These grants support ongoing or short-term arts programs, requiring a dollar-for-dollar cash match. Eligible applicants must be non-profit organizations with programs occurring within city limits. Grant webinars are mandatory for applicants, ensuring they are well-prepared for the application process. The program aims to foster artistic excellence and community engagement through diverse artistic opportunities.
Art & Culture Arts / Culture Access & Participation Artist Residencies +2 more

Ruth Hornbrook Memorial Fund Grants for Humane Societies

Parkersburg Area Community Foundation
Private
West Virginia
US $500 - US $3,000
The Ruth Hornbrook Memorial Fund Grants support humane societies in West Virginia, focusing on new entities. Grants, ranging from $500 to $3,000, fund projects like humane education, shelter construction, and equipment purchases. Notably, the fund excludes spay/neuter program support. This initiative aims to enhance animal welfare and promote humane education in the community, ensuring that emerging organizations have the resources they need to thrive.
Education Architecture Supportive Housing & Shelters

J.B. Hunt Transport Services: Company Giving

J.B. Hunt Transport Services
Corporate
United States
Unspecified amount
J.B. Hunt Transport Services offers financial support for various community projects through its Company Giving program. Focused on four key areas—Health Care, Veterans' Support, Education, and Crisis Management—this initiative aims to enhance the well-being of local communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and civic groups, while organizations that primarily benefit their members or have high management overhead may be excluded. The program underscores J.B. Hunt's commitment to corporate social responsibility.
Health Care Access & Delivery Military & Veterans Services Education +1 more

SHAPE America: Major of the Year Award

Society Of Health And Physical Educators
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The SHAPE America Major of the Year Award recognizes exemplary undergraduate students in health, physical education, recreation, and dance. This prestigious accolade aims to highlight nominees who demonstrate academic excellence and commitment to service within their communities. Faculty members from colleges and universities are encouraged to nominate one outstanding student per major, ensuring that the next generation of health educators is celebrated for their achievements and contributions to the field.
Education - Higher Education Recreation Dance +2 more

Growing Greenwood Fund

Emporia Community Foundation
Private
Greenwood County, Kansas
Up to US $800
The Growing Greenwood Fund, managed by the Emporia Community Foundation, provides essential financial support for education, community development, health care, and recreation projects in Greenwood County. This fund aims to enhance the quality of life for local residents by funding innovative programs that meet changing community needs. Organizations seeking assistance should be non-profit and not directly tax-supported. Funding excludes operational expenses such as salaries and utilities.
Education Community Development & Revitalization Health Care Access & Delivery +5 more

Anna Satcher Scholarship Support Fund

Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama
Private
Alabama
Unspecified amount
The Anna Satcher Scholarship Support Fund provides financial assistance to graduating seniors of Mt. Liberty Baptist Church in Anniston, Alabama. Established in memory of Wilmer and Anna Satcher, this fund supports students pursuing higher education or approved workforce training programs. The scholarship is renewable for four years, contingent upon maintaining eligibility. It covers tuition, housing, and other educational expenses, but availability may vary based on the fund's income. Interested students should contact the Community Foundation for details.
Academic Scholarship Programs Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Education - Higher Education +1 more

Annual Main Grant Funding Cycle

New Canaan Community Foundation
Private
Fairfield County, Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The Annual Main Grant Funding Cycle by the New Canaan Community Foundation aims to enhance the community's quality of life through strategic funding. Supporting diverse areas such as arts, health, human services, seniors, and youth education, the foundation seeks to address local challenges collaboratively. By investing in nonprofit organizations and fostering partnerships, the foundation strengthens community ties and ensures that all residents have access to essential resources and support.
Art & Culture Community Development & Revitalization Health & Medicine +6 more

Giving in Action Grants - Make a Difference Grant

Moline Regional Community Foundation
Private
Henderson County, Illinois, Henry County, Illinois +4 more
US $25,000 - US $50,000
The Giving in Action Grants - Make a Difference Grant provides funding between $25,000 and $50,000 for nonprofits serving the areas of Arts & Culture, Community & Economic Development, Education, Environmental & Conservation, and Health & Human Services. Organizations located outside the service region are eligible to apply. This initiative supports special projects and expanded programming to benefit communities in specific counties of Illinois and Iowa.
Art & Culture Education Health & Medicine +5 more

San Antonio Area Foundation: Capital Grants

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
Atascosa County, Texas, Bandera County, Texas +6 more
Unspecified amount
The Capital & Naming Rights Grants support initiatives that enhance community equity in San Antonio. This funding is aimed at organizations that align with key impact areas, including cultural vibrancy, livable communities, successful aging, and youth success. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations operating in specific Texas counties and demonstrate a commitment to addressing community needs through innovative projects. Proposals may include capital project expenses as well as operating costs post-project completion.
Art & Culture Senior Services Youth Services +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 $3.34B 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

300+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Domestic Violence

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
29.7%
Q2
24.7%
Q3
23.5%
Q4
22.1%

Typical Funding Amounts

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

Grants are most commonly $32,500.

$0 $0 Min.
$32,500 $32.5 K Median
$633,837 $633.8 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 29.7% 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 $32,500 (median) and $633,837 (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.