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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

The James R. Herdzik Memorial Scholarship Award

Erie Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The James R. Herdzik Memorial Scholarship Award, administered by the Erie Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to Erie School District graduating seniors who plan to attend an accredited four-year college or university. This need-based scholarship aims to support students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher who demonstrate a strong commitment to community service. In 2023, over $800,000 in scholarships was awarded to help deserving students pursue their educational goals.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Education - High School +1 more

The Goodwine Scholarship

Erie Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Goodwine Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from public or private high schools in Erie County pursuing a two-year associate degree or certificate. In 2023, the foundation awarded over $800,000 in scholarships to more than 500 students, ensuring they have the opportunity to further their education and skills. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 to qualify for this valuable support.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Education - High School +1 more

California Serves Grant Program

California Department of Education
State/Local Government
California
Up to US $500,000
The California Serves Grant Program, administered by the California Department of Education, offers funding to local educational agencies to enhance service learning. This initiative aims to help high school graduates achieve the State Seal of Civic Engagement through various supports including planning time, professional development, and instructional materials. Eligible agencies can apply for grants up to $500,000 annually, with a total budget of $5 million available for fiscal years 2024-27, promoting civic engagement through effective learning.
Teacher Development & Training Career / College Preparation Education - High School +1 more

AACR-Torrey Coast Foundation Transpacific Gastric and Esophageal Cancer Research Partnership Grant

American Association for Cancer Research
Association/Society
Asia, United States
Up to US $400,000
The AACR-Torrey Coast Foundation Transpacific Gastric and Esophageal Cancer Research Partnership Grant supports innovative research on upper gastrointestinal malignancies, which are responsible for over one million deaths globally in 2023. This grant encourages collaboration between U.S. and Asian institutions, focusing on resistance, metastasis, and novel treatment strategies. Proposals should detail plans for clinical translation and are open to researchers at all career stages, especially those new to upper GI cancer research.
Cancer / Oncology Gastrointestinal Cancers

Mary L. Fenker Scholarship

Erie County Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Mary L. Fenker Scholarship, established in memory of a dedicated educator, supports graduating seniors from Erie County, Ohio, pursuing undergraduate degrees. Since 1995, the Erie County Community Foundation has prioritized community needs, offering this scholarship to enhance the quality of life in the region. Preference is given to African American students from Sandusky High School, with financial need considered. Renewable for up to three years, the scholarship aims to empower students to achieve their educational goals.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +1 more

Innovation Award

American Lung Association
Private
United States
Up to US $150,000
The Innovation Award by the American Lung Association offers $75,000 annually for up to two years, aimed at supporting promising investigators in lung disease research. With a legacy of over 120 years, the Association seeks to fund innovative projects that can significantly impact lung health. Eligible candidates must demonstrate prior excellence in their careers and have held a K or R type award within the last three to five years. This initiative fosters groundbreaking advancements in lung disease science.
Lung Cancer Respiratory Diseases & Systems

Bernice M. Brightbill Fund Scholarship

The Foundation for Enhancing Communities
Private
United States
US $500 - US $10,000
The Bernice M. Brightbill Fund Scholarship offers a one-time award to a senior female student from the Central Dauphin School District pursuing a college degree in business studies. This scholarship aims to support students demonstrating financial need, regardless of citizenship or documentation status. Eligible applicants can apply for multiple scholarships and may be selected for any or all they qualify for, promoting accessibility in education.
Business Education Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs +2 more

Moving Stories: Short-Form Graphic Novels for King County Metro Transit RapidRide

4Culture
State/Local Government
King County, Washington
US $54,000
The 'Moving Stories' project invites six artists to create short-form graphic novels that illustrate narratives from communities along King County Metro's RapidRide lines. Each artist will receive $54,000 to develop two graphic novels, focusing on community engagement, storytelling, and visual narrative creation. This initiative supports the expansion of public transit by showcasing diverse local stories, encouraging artists with ties to the area to apply, regardless of prior public art experience.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation Greening & Beautification Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems

Research Grants on Improving the Use of Research Evidence: Officers’ Research Grants

William T Grant Foundation Inc
Private
United States
US $25,000 - US $50,000
The William T. Grant Foundation offers Research Grants on Improving the Use of Research Evidence, aimed at enhancing research strategies that benefit youth aged 5-25 in the U.S. Grants range from $25,000 to $50,000 over one to two years, including up to 15% for indirect costs. The program emphasizes capacity-building for grantees, fostering connections among scholars and practitioners, and creating collaborative learning environments to address challenges and share insights.
Child Welfare Services Juvenile Justice Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +1 more

Angel Scholarship for Social Work, Peace, & Justice Studies

Catholic Community Foundation for the Diocese of Phoenix
Private
Arizona
US $5,000
The Angel Scholarship for Social Work, Peace, & Justice Studies, established in 2012 by a generous donor from the Catholic Community Foundation, offers a one-time $5,000 award to full-time seniors attending Catholic high schools in the Diocese of Phoenix. This scholarship aims to inspire students to commit to social work and serve underserved communities. It is not based on financial need or GPA, and it does not fund degrees in criminal justice, philosophy, or related fields.
Academic Scholarship Programs Volunteerism & Philanthropy Catholicism +1 more

Catalyst Award

American Lung Association
Private
United States
Up to US $100,000
The Catalyst Award, offered by the American Lung Association, supports innovative research on lung disease and biology. This mentored grant provides $50,000 annually for up to two years, prioritizing novel projects with collaborative training plans. The American Lung Association aims to improve lung health and prevent diseases through research, education, and advocacy, focusing on defeating lung cancer and fostering a tobacco-free future.
Lung Cancer Respiratory Diseases & Systems

Alaska Mining Impacts and Prevention Fund

Alaska Conservation Foundation
Private
Alaska
US $5,000 - US $20,000
The Alaska Mining Impacts and Prevention Fund, established by the Alaska Conservation Foundation, aims to mitigate the effects of hardrock mining in Alaska. It prioritizes projects that address mining impacts comprehensively, supporting advocacy, policy improvement, and stronger regulations. Eligible non-profits can seek funding for community organizing, legal assistance, and outreach initiatives, fostering a collaborative approach to protect Alaska's landscapes and communities from mining-related challenges.
Environmental Justice & Advocacy Environmental Stewardship

Zonta Club of Greater Sandusky Nontraditional Students Scholarship Fund

Erie County Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Zonta Club of Greater Sandusky offers a scholarship fund aimed at supporting female residents of Erie, Huron, Ottawa, or Sandusky Counties, Ohio. This fund is specifically for women aged 23 and older who are returning to education after a break. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in a 2-4 year undergraduate program at an accredited institution, empowering them to enhance their educational and professional prospects.
Education - Higher Education Women & Girl Services Education - High School +2 more

PAE Diversity in Engineering Scholarship

Architecture Foundation of Oregon (AFO)
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $20,000
The PAE Diversity in Engineering Scholarship offers a renewable $5,000 award for undergraduate students from marginalized ethnic backgrounds or genders pursuing engineering at a U.S. university. Established in 2024 in partnership with PAE, the scholarship aims to enhance diversity in engineering fields, focusing on candidates committed to climate justice. Awardees benefit from mentorship and networking opportunities with industry professionals, fostering both academic success and community impact.
Academic Scholarship Programs Black American Services Indigenous Services +1 more

Larson Family Foundation Grants

Larson Foundation
Private
South Dakota
US $800 - US $100,000
The Larson Family Foundation, established in 1990 by Dale Larson, aims to enhance the quality of life for South Dakotans through grants to tax-exempt organizations. With a maximum grant of $100,000, the foundation supports diverse programs addressing basic human needs, including food, clothing, and education. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations in South Dakota. However, the foundation does not fund administrative expenses or individual scholarships, ensuring that contributions directly benefit community services.
Community Development & Revitalization Education Basic Human Needs +1 more

NIHCM Foundation: Trade Journalism Award

The National Institute for Health Care Management
Private
United States
US $15,000
The NIHCM Foundation's Trade Journalism Award honors outstanding reporting aimed at specialty audiences, focusing on enhancing the affordability, accessibility, and quality of healthcare in the U.S. A $15,000 prize will be awarded to the winner. Entries, which can be individual stories or series published in 2025, must provide valuable insights relevant to health plans, policymakers, and stakeholders, addressing the critical issues of rising healthcare costs and access.
Journalism Health Care Access & Delivery Health Policy & Advocacy +1 more

GEMSSTAR for Emergency Medicine Supplemental Funding Program

Society for Academic Emergency Medicine Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $25,000
The GEMSSTAR for Emergency Medicine Supplemental Funding Program provides up to $25,000 over two years to support emergency medicine physicians who have received the NIA GEMSSTAR grant. This program aims to enhance the Professional Development Plan of GEMSSTAR awardees, ensuring they receive the necessary funding for their research endeavors. Eligibility is limited to those who have completed their clinical specialty training and are based at U.S. institutions, with funding contingent upon available resources.
Emergency Medical Care & Services Aging / Gerontology Dental Health +2 more

NIHCM Foundation: Policy Research Award

The National Institute for Health Care Management
Private
United States
US $20,000
The NIHCM Foundation's Policy Research Award honors outstanding research published in peer-reviewed journals that significantly contributes to improving the affordability, accessibility, and quality of healthcare in the U.S. The winner will receive a $20,000 prize. Eligible entries must address healthcare affordability and be published in 2025, with a maximum of three submissions per author. This award aims to recognize innovative insights that can inform policymakers and stakeholders in the healthcare sector.
Health Care Access & Delivery Health Policy & Advocacy Health Insurance +1 more

Ebby Halliday Foundation Grants

Ebby Halliday Foundation
Private
Collin County, Texas, Dallas County, Texas +14 more
Unspecified amount
The Ebby Halliday Foundation Grants support charitable organizations that assist women and children, and those facing food and shelter insecurity. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization aims to fulfill the philanthropic vision of Ebby Halliday. Eligible applicants must be recognized 501(c)(3) organizations, focusing on charitable and educational activities in North Texas. The foundation emphasizes its commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable communities through targeted funding and support.
Food Security Family Services Women & Girl Services

Pediatric Oncology Student Training (POST) Program Grant

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer
Private
Canada, United States
Up to US $5,000
The Pediatric Oncology Student Training (POST) Program Grant, offered by Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, aims to foster the next generation of pediatric oncology researchers. This summer internship provides undergraduate, graduate, and medical students with hands-on research experience in a supportive environment, focusing on diversity and inclusion. Grants will specifically support students from underrepresented communities in the scientific workforce, enabling impactful research and mentorship opportunities to advance pediatric cancer care.
Pediatric Cancers Tutoring & Mentoring

National Security Workforce Graduate Scholarship

Los Alamos National Laboratory Foundation
Private
New Mexico
US $10,000
The National Security Workforce Graduate Scholarship, launched by the LANL Foundation in partnership with Los Alamos National Laboratory, aims to strengthen the pipeline of Northern New Mexico students pursuing advanced degrees in vital science, engineering, and management fields. Eligible candidates must be residents of the region and enroll in relevant master's or doctoral programs. This scholarship not only supports academic growth but also fosters future careers at LANL, contributing to national security advancements.
Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

Indiana Department of Health Trauma System Development Grant

Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute (CTSI)
Association/Society
Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Indiana Department of Health Trauma System Development Grant supports initiatives aimed at enhancing the statewide trauma care system. Funded by the Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, this grant encourages projects that focus on trauma system development, quality improvement, engagement with trauma and non-trauma centers, and injury prevention programming. Applicants are encouraged to submit proposals addressing one or more of these strategies to improve patient outcomes and save lives across Indiana.
Crisis Intervention Health Facilities & Clinics

Women of the Year

Central Kansas Community Foundation
Private
Harvey County, Kansas
Unspecified amount
The Women of the Year program, initiated in 1956 by the Central Kansas Community Foundation, honors women who have made significant contributions to their communities. Each year, three exceptional women are celebrated for their outstanding service in various fields such as education, business, and civic engagement. This program, now overseen by the Women's Community Foundation, continues to inspire future generations of female leaders in Harvey County, Kansas, fostering community transformation through dedicated service.
Civic Engagement & Education Entrepreneurship Women's Rights & Equality +1 more

West Valley Lutheran Thrift Shop (WVLTS) Grant

West Valley Lutheran Thrift Shop
Private
Maricopa County, Arizona
Unspecified amount
The West Valley Lutheran Thrift Shop (WVLTS) Grant provides financial support to non-profit organizations that align with its mission of serving communities in the West Valley, Arizona. The grant focuses on projects that enhance Christian outreach, especially for vulnerable populations and youth education. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the mission and financial viability. The WVLTS aims to fund impactful initiatives that contribute to the well-being of the community, with a preference for projects over $10,000.
Youth Services Christianity Educational Access & Equity +2 more

Howard Kelsey Memorial Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Howard Kelsey Memorial Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing degrees in Health and Human Performance or Kinesiology. As Montana's largest public research university, MSU emphasizes education, research, and community service. This scholarship varies in award amounts and aligns with MSU's mission to enhance student success and foster innovation, ultimately contributing to the region's economic and social development.
Education - Higher Education Business Education College Success / Persistence +1 more

Warrick Community Good Grants Program

Community Foundation Alliance, Inc.
Private
Warrick County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Warrick Community Good Grants Program, managed by the Community Foundation Alliance, Inc., supports local charitable organizations by funding new or ongoing projects that address various community needs. Grants are provided annually through unrestricted funds and aim to enhance the quality of life in Warrick County. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofits and government agencies, while specific funding criteria may vary each year. Organizations must review requirements before applying.
Art & Culture Health & Medicine Human & Social Services +5 more

Andrew and Loretta Schwan Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Montana
Unspecified amount
The Andrew and Loretta Schwan Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports Montana high school graduates pursuing education in veterinary medicine or animal sciences. Preference is given to students from Hill or Liberty County enrolled in the Pre-Veterinary Program. This scholarship exemplifies MSU's commitment to fostering educational opportunities in agriculture and veterinary medicine, ensuring that graduates are prepared to contribute positively to their communities and the state of Montana.
Education - Higher Education Veterinary Science & Services Career / College Preparation +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.