Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Gordon Elwood Foundation Grant supports youth, individuals, families, and communities in Southern Oregon through educational opportunities and life skills development. The foundation aims to reduce obstacles to success in education and the workplace, while fostering community engagement. Grants are exclusively available to qualified nonprofit organizations within four counties and require tax-exempt status. The foundation promotes innovative approaches to community challenges and prioritizes collaboration with its Executive Director.

Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs works every day to positively impact Alabama communities through partnerships, grant programs, and services to spur community and economic development and enhance quality of life.

ADECA is a state agency that partners with leaders at the local level to positively impact and enhance the quality of life in Alabama communities through dozens of federal and state grant programs, surplus property, and water resource management.

ADECA’s grant programs support and fund local initiatives that communities often would not be able to afford on their own and improve many facets of life through community and economic development. Our programs help address critical infrastructure needs like water, sewer, and broadband; provide law enforcement equipment and support for victims of crime; build new trails and recreational features; and assist with energy efficiency that lowers energy costs.

State Energy Program (SEP) and Energy Efficiency Programs

The State Energy Program’s (SEP) purpose is to provide funding and technical assistance to enhance energy security, advance state-led energy initiatives, maximize the benefits of decreasing energy waste, and increase energy affordability. It also helps prepare for natural disasters and improve the security of the State’s energy infrastructure. Specifically, it assists states in meeting federal requirements to prepare for an energy emergency and develop an individual state energy security plan. SEP is federally funded by the U.S. Department of Energy.

Authority

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA), Energy Division manages the State Energy Program (SEP) for Alabama by the authority of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

Energy-Efficient Retrofits of Wastewater Treatment Facilities

Purpose

The SEP is a formula grant used to reduce energy consumption in Alabama. The Energy Division is accepting applications for grants to be used for the purchase and installation of energy-efficient improvements in wastewater treatment facilities. Applications should be developed with thoughtful consideration being given to the certifications contained on page 17 of the attached PDF document. 

The Pittsburgh Foundation's Environmental Action Grants prioritize community-centered projects that enhance environmental health and decision-making. With grants ranging from $10,000 to $150,000, the foundation supports initiatives that involve participatory research, advocacy, and grassroots organizing. The focus is on empowering communities, particularly in Allegheny County, to address environmental challenges. The foundation seeks to bridge gaps in social justice and promote equitable access to a healthy environment, fostering collaboration among local stakeholders.

The Janis Chapman Merrill Foundation Grant aims to support 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to enhancing the health, education, and welfare of children and families, as well as the homeless in Arizona. This foundation prioritizes initiatives that directly impact these vulnerable populations, ensuring that assistance reaches those in need. Eligible applicants must meet specific criteria to apply for funding, helping to create sustainable change within the community.

The Pittsburgh Foundation's Economic Mobility Grants focus on enhancing career advancement opportunities for low-income families and communities. With funding ranging from $10,000 to $150,000, the foundation seeks to support initiatives that provide technology training, foster partnerships for curriculum development, and promote collaboration in career readiness. These efforts aim to address the projected worker shortfall and improve economic mobility through targeted educational and training programs in Allegheny County.

The Northern Lowcountry Grants, offered by the Coastal Community Foundation, support nonprofits in Berkeley, Charleston, Dorchester, and Georgetown counties. Grants up to $15,000 are available for projects focusing on arts, hospice care, and Alzheimer's-related disorders. For other initiatives, applicants may request up to $10,000. Established in 1974, the foundation aims to enhance community vibrancy by addressing regional challenges and promoting resource collaboration.

The CHEERS Open Period 1 invites white papers focused on enhancing operational medicine and support for Airmen and Guardians. Managed by the Air Force Research Laboratory and USAFSAM, this opportunity aims to address future demands in Aerospace Medicine, Occupational Health, and Public Health. Proposals should align with the objectives outlined in the Continuing Human Enabling, Enhancing, Restoring and Sustaining announcement. This initiative emphasizes innovative solutions to support the Department of Defense's mission.

The Festivals Program Grant, offered by the South Carolina Arts Commission, aims to support a wide range of arts activities at festivals that significantly impact local communities. By fostering public engagement and participation in arts and culture, this grant prioritizes festivals in underserved areas, enhancing access to creative experiences for all. Eligibility extends to local governments and registered nonprofits, ensuring that the arts remain integral to South Carolina's community life, especially during challenging times.

The FM Area Foundation's Community Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Cass County, ND, and Clay County, MN, addressing diverse community needs. Grants ranging from $500 to $15,000 are available for projects in areas like arts, education, and basic human needs. Applications are reviewed based on community impact, collaboration, and capacity. Nonprofits must be IRS-approved 501(c)(3) organizations or government entities, with one application accepted per year.

The Giving Back 365 Grant, offered by the Watertown Area Community Foundation, supports local initiatives aimed at enhancing community well-being. Since 1979, the Foundation connects donors with vital projects that address pressing needs such as food security, youth programs, and essential services. This grant focuses on funding start-up costs, equipment acquisition, and capital improvements for projects within the Watertown area, ensuring that contributions effectively impact those who need it most.

About FDOT

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is an executive agency and directly reports to Governor Ron DeSantis. FDOT’s continuing mission is to provide a safe statewide transportation system that promotes the efficient movement of people and goods, supports the state’s economic competitiveness, prioritizes Florida’s environment and natural resources, and preserves the quality of life and connectedness of the state’s communities. This mission is accomplished through a primary purpose to plan and develop (either directly or indirectly) Florida’s robust transportation system. The unique nature of the Sunshine State and its year-round warm climate provides numerous opportunities to move people and goods through multiple modes including highways/streets, air, rail, sea, spaceports, transit, and ever-expanding deployment of bicycle & pedestrian facilities.

The department is committed to building a transportation system that not only fits the current needs of Florida’s residents and visitors but also enhances mobility throughout the state to accommodate its consistent and rapid growth. FDOT is proud to recruit and retain some of the best and brightest professionals in the transportation industry who consistently help the department inspire innovation and improve safety for all of our transportation modes.

Florida Highway Beautification Grant Program

Thank you for your interest in the FDOT Beautification Grants. Grant funds are allocated by the legislature and budgets are approved by July 1 of each year.

It is available to State of Florida local governmental entities interested in providing landscaping and irrigation along State transportation facilities.

All completed applications received by Thursday, October 1, 2026 will be checked for completeness, assembled, and distributed to a panel selected by the Grant Coordinators. A virtual public meeting to discuss all received applications will be scheduled once applications are received.

Each panelist will independently rank each applicant prior to being combined into an overall ranked list of potential awards. Grants will be awarded in the order they appear on the ranked list and in accordance with available funding. Official notice of each grant award will be made by the Department by email to the Applicant named in the grant application.

To accept a grant, an Applicant must send a letter of acceptance by email to the Grant Coordinator within 15 days from the date of receipt of the offer of the award. Funds will be released by the Department when agreements are executed, the project is constructed as per plans approved by the Department, there is written final acceptance by the Department and receipts for grant expenses are reviewed and approved by the Department.

The Kassing, Margaret, Educational Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating senior from Beatrice High School aiming to become a teacher. This scholarship emphasizes academic achievement, community involvement, and financial need. Applicants must submit a complete application, including a Student Aid Report from FAFSA, and must not receive excessive scholarship funds that exceed their needs. This initiative supports aspiring educators in their pursuit of higher education.

The OneAmerica Financial Community grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations focused on education, workforce development, safety, wellness, and community vibrancy. With a commitment to making a difference, OneAmerica aims to transform lives through strategic philanthropy. Their initiatives include disaster relief, arts support, and civic engagement, fostering resilient communities. By investing in meaningful change, they build a foundation for shared success across the country, ensuring that community needs are met and future generations thrive.

The FH Vinecore Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports Douglas County students attending Washington State University. Eligible applicants include high school seniors or graduates from Douglas County, with preference for those from Orondo and majoring in Horticulture or Business Administration. This scholarship aims to empower local students to pursue higher education while nurturing community ties.

The Roy & Christine Sturgis Charitable Trust, established in 1981, supports educational, cultural, and health care initiatives in Arkansas and Texas. With a focus on one-year grants, it promotes capital projects, medical research, and endowment campaigns. Organizations in Texas, especially in the Dallas area, receive strong preference. Ineligible applicants include those who have recently received grants from other foundations or multi-year grants, which require a two-year wait before reapplying.

The AES Hawaiʻi Foundation Grant supports communities near AES Hawaiʻi’s renewable energy projects, focusing on social justice, education, environmental stewardship, and community health. Preference is given to nonprofit organizations in these areas, but statewide entities may also apply. Successful projects should align with the Foundation’s impact pillars, demonstrate measurable community benefits, and address unmet needs, ensuring long-term positive effects on the local community.

The AAO-HNSF Percy Memorial Research Award offers $25,000 for one year to support innovative research projects in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery. This grant aims to fund projects with clinical significance, encouraging the development of new long-term research initiatives. Applicants must submit a detailed budget and secure letters of support from their Department Chair and key personnel involved in the project. Funds cannot cover salaries or purchase equipment exceeding $500.

The Steel Dynamics Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community quality of life and local economies by supporting 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Priorities include higher education, economic development, and human services, particularly in communities where Steel Dynamics operates. Grants are awarded based on community impact, employee involvement, and organizational integrity. Applicants must demonstrate a strong ethical track record and effective community engagement to qualify for funding opportunities.

The Violent Crime Reduction Grant Program, administered by the Ohio Department of Public Safety, aims to support initiatives that enhance public safety and reduce violent crimes. This program is designed for local governments and non-profit organizations seeking funding for innovative projects that address crime prevention and community safety. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria to qualify for funding, promoting effective solutions to combat violence in Ohio.

Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation

For more than 80 years, the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation has worked to ensure that Nebraska’s history isn’t just preserved—it’s actively shared, explored, and reimagined. Through private donations, the Foundation supports projects across the state that restore historic places, expand access to educational resources, and bring new life to local stories. Signature programs and experiences, like WanderNebraska and Walk to the Rock, invite people to connect with the state’s past in fresh, meaningful ways—whether by visiting a small-town museum, discovering a hidden landmark, or exploring a piece of forgotten heritage.

Grant Focus

The focus for the fall cycle is Education and Access and the main areas for grant distribution will be:

• School visits, field trips and transportation
• Youth and family engagement
• Festival or milestone event support
• Professional development and conference registrations

RoamNebraska (formerly the NSHSF Statewide Grants Program) was developed in July 2020, with the guidance of Michael J. Smith, former CEO of the Nebraska State Historical Society, to address a critical funding need for local historical and educational organizations across Nebraska.

Through this program, grants support museums, historical societies, libraries, and community partners in delivering core education, preservation, and interpretive programs that bring community history to life.

The Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation is committed to advancing efforts that build respect, dignity, fairness, equality, and self-esteem. We value diverse life experiences and are devoted to fostering inclusive and equitable environments where all Nebraskans can see their stories reflected and honored.

The Health Careers Scholarship of Sonoma County, administered by 10,000 Degrees, supports students pursuing careers in medicine, nursing, or allied health fields. Established in 2001, it is open to undergraduate and graduate students who are residents of Sonoma County or graduated from its high schools. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence with a minimum 3.0 GPA and provide two letters of recommendation, excluding relatives. This scholarship is a vital resource for aspiring healthcare professionals in the community.

The Somerset Community Foundation provides competitive grants to nonprofit programs and organizations that enhance life in Somerset. Focused on community needs, these grants aim to foster economic development, educational opportunities, and revitalization of public spaces. Eligible applicants include public charities, local government divisions, and schools. However, grants are not awarded for lobbying, individual support, or national fund drives. Only one grant per organization is permitted annually, ensuring broad community support.

In 1975, the Montana Legislature set aside a percentage of the Coal Tax to restore murals in the Capitol and support other cultural and aesthetic projects. Applications must be for cultural and aesthetic projects including, but not limited to: Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Literary Arts, Media Arts, History, Archaeology, Folklore, Archives, Collections, Research, Historic Preservation and Construction and Renovation of Cultural Facilities. 

The Knight Family Charitable Foundation, established by Peg and Bill Knight, focuses on enhancing community welfare through humanitarian support, education, and the arts. It aims to protect native wildlife and their habitats while promoting projects aligned with its mission. The foundation continues the legacy of giving back, inspired by the Knights' lifelong commitment to community service. 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations are eligible for support, fostering initiatives that resonate with the foundation's vision.

The James E. Huffer and Betty J. Huffer Foundation aims to support non-profit organizations that enhance community welfare through educational, artistic, and humanitarian initiatives. The foundation prioritizes multidisciplinary efforts that demonstrate a strong commitment to regional service and impactful contributions. Focus areas include arts, environmental stewardship, health sciences, and youth education. Organizations must confirm tax-exempt status and provide financial documentation to be considered for funding.

The Yawkey Foundation's Transformational Capital Grant provides significant funding, up to $5 million, for nonprofit organizations to enhance their mission delivery through the development of impactful physical spaces. The grants are highly competitive and require compelling proposals demonstrating project need, community support, and financial commitment. Organizations must align with the Foundation's priority Areas of Giving, primarily serving Eastern Massachusetts and Georgetown County, South Carolina. Review timeframe for proposals is approximately 12-18 months.

The Kleveland, Garold E., and Clarice A. SCC Scholarship, established by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, offers a $1,000 scholarship to a graduating senior from Beatrice High School pursuing Auto Mechanics at Southeast Community College. It supports students demonstrating interest and financial need while promoting academic excellence. The foundation, a nonprofit established in 1987, awards over $55,000 annually in scholarships, working alongside a 15-member Board and students to enhance educational opportunities in the community.