Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Park Pride Large Capital Improvements Grants support transformative projects in Atlanta's parks, providing funding between $2,500 and $100,000. To apply, Friends of the Park groups must submit a Grant Questionnaire and meet specific eligibility criteria, including nonprofit status and project type. Examples of eligible projects include playgrounds, exercise equipment, and walking trails. This competitive grant aims to enhance community spaces and promote public access to improved park facilities.

The NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission Grant aims to support tobacco-dependent communities in North Carolina. Established to assist farmers and businesses affected by the Master Settlement Agreement, the Commission focuses on economic development, increasing farm profitability, and promoting agricultural diversity. Grants are available for organizations that deliver services to impacted populations, with priority given to projects that foster community stability and resource development. The Commission's funding is managed by the State Treasurer and requires strategic project proposals.

About the Foundation

The MxCC Foundation Supports CT State Middlesex and Meriden Campuses

The purpose of the Middlesex Community College Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) public charity incorporated in Connecticut, is twofold:

• To support the college and its students by receiving, managing, and distributing funds for scholarships and other educational purposes, and
• To generate and strengthen communication and collaboration between the college and the Foundation and business, industry, professional, civic, and educational leaders in the communities served by the college—all of Middlesex County, Meriden and Wallingford in New Haven County, and Rocky Hill in Hartford County.

Removing financial obstacles that bar or inhibit student access to education is the Foundation’s driving force. Scholarships address not only the growing need for financial assistance, but also our perennial wish to celebrate student achievement.

The MxCC Foundation’s charge is to develop external resources that contribute support to student and academic programs, as well as efforts that foster student success.

Stephanie Nelson Scholarship

This scholarship was established in memory of Middlesex student Stephanie Nelson who was also an intern at Wesleyan University’s Center for the Arts and passed away unexpectedly in 2014.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Jerry J. Murphy MSW Scholarship Fund

The Jerry J. Murphy MSW Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to students pursuing a Master of Social Work degree.

Jerry Murphy is the retired Executive Director of the INC Board. He served residents of Kane County for over 28 years during his time with the organization.

INC Board, NFP, is an Illinois, not-for-profit corporation which was chartered as Mental Health and Mental Retardation Services on April 21, 1969, to promote the creation of local mental health boards authorized under 405 Illinois Compiled Statutes §20/3a.

The Racial Equity & Women’s Intercultural Ministries Grants and Scholarships, supported by the Presbyterian Mission Agency, aim to empower leaders, congregations, and organizations that promote racial equity and women's rights. This initiative reflects the Presbyterian Church's commitment to justice and inclusivity, fostering an environment where diverse voices can thrive and contribute to the community. By providing these resources, the program seeks to uplift marginalized groups and promote social equity within faith-based settings.

The GA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in Georgia through funding for projects focused on research, education, or marketing. Eligible projects include those that increase consumption in schools, improve food safety, and enhance marketability of specialty crops. The program is open to groups based in Georgia, including grower associations and educational institutions, and prioritizes projects that benefit local producers.

The Montana Trout Foundation aims to preserve and enhance Montana's wild trout resources through funding scientific research, education, and habitat enhancement. By promoting awareness of water quality and environmental preservation, the foundation supports projects that contribute to healthier fisheries and improved fishing experiences. Their grant program encourages initiatives that align with these goals, ensuring that the natural environment and trout habitats are maintained for future generations.

About the Program

The Women’s Foundation of Alabama (WFA) created the Advancing Alabama Child Care Accelerator as a critical part of our multi-pronged approach to addressing the child care crisis impacting families nationwide. Through this accelerator, we invest in women business owners, support peer community, and leverage proven business growth strategies to advance sustainable, community-based child care solutions.

Limestone County Child Care Accelerator Program

Launching in April 2026, the Limestone County Advancing Alabama Child Care Accelerator is designed to support center-based and home-based child care providers who are starting or expanding high-quality, thriving child care businesses that meet the needs of working families in Alabama. Businesses accepted into the cohort will join a community of peers and receive high-quality training and coaching from business and child care experts across the state, along with access to tools, resources, and funding opportunities aimed at strengthening operations and increasing the supply of child care seats in Limestone County.

Funding Opportunity

At the conclusion of the training program, participants will be eligible to apply for a grant of up to $25,000 from the Women’s Foundation of Alabama to support the launch or expansion of their child care business. Additional details about the funding application and review process will be shared with individuals selected for the Spring 2026 Limestone County cohort.

Time Commitment

Participants must be able to commit 3–5 hours per week to training and program activities.

The Washington Apple Education Foundation (WAEF) is proud to offer scholarships for over 300 students this year, totaling more than $1 million in educational awards. These scholarships primarily support Washington state high school seniors and college students from Yakima and the lower Yakima valley pursuing careers in agri-business or ag insurance. With a strong connection to the tree fruit industry, recipients can apply their awards at accredited institutions to further their education.

The DCCF: YEP Grants, managed by the DeKalb County Community Foundation, engage youth in philanthropy, fostering a commitment to community service. Starting in 2025, only select grant applications will receive site visits based on specific criteria, while others will be evaluated solely on submitted information. This program aims to inspire young adults to create a lasting impact through philanthropy and community involvement.

Literary Arts Project Grants

As part of its Literary Arts Initiative, South Arts is pleased to announce Literary Arts Project Grants supporting literary arts organizations and small presses that focus on contemporary literary arts.

These grants advance South Arts’ commitment to amplifying the literary traditions and artistic practices of the American South by directly supporting the development, production, and public engagement of high-quality literary projects.

Literary Arts Project Grants support projects in poetry, fiction, creative or literary nonfiction, young readers’ literature, and drama (scriptwriting). Projects must demonstrate artistic excellence, editorial rigor, and meaningful public or community impact.

Award Amount

South Arts will award up to $5,000 per project to eligible literary arts organizations and small presses.

About

Since its founding in 1977, the El Paso Community Foundation has awarded more than $249,142,042 in grants to nonprofit organizations and individuals in the greater El Paso region. We constantly look for innovative approaches to solve community problems and to meet our community’s ever evolving needs.

The El Paso Community Foundation and its supporting organizations respond to the needs of nonprofit organizations by providing grants in the greater El Paso region.

Burkitt Foundation Perpetual Fund

The grant provides funding for Catholic Schools (K-12) in the dioceses of Galveston-Houston, San Antonio, and El Paso; and hunger and nutrition services in the El Paso County area

Granting Areas of Interest:

• Arts and Humanities
• Education
• Environment/Animals
• Health and Disabilities
• Human Services (basic human needs)
• Economic Development

Granting Priorities

• Projects that will result in more effective ways of doing things — ideas that require risk-taking
• Projects that can create an impact with a moderate amount of grant money
• Projects that show collaboration with other organizations

The USArtists International Grants program, supported by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, aids U.S. artists in showcasing their talents at international events. Despite a recent funding termination notice, the program historically provides matching grants of up to $11,000 for travel expenses. This initiative is crucial for enhancing the visibility of diverse U.S. artistic expressions on global platforms, fostering connections between artists and international audiences.

New York State Office of Mental Health

The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) oversees a large multi-faceted mental health system serving nearly 800,000 individuals each year. This includes operating 23 psychiatric centers and overseeing the Nathan S. Kline Institute and New York Psychiatric Institute. OMH regulates and certifies more than 6,500 programs operated by local governments and nonprofit agencies.

Mission

Our mission is to promote the mental health of all New Yorkers, with a particular focus on providing hope and recovery for adults with serious mental illness and children with serious emotional disturbances.

Community Mental Health Loan Repayment Program: Mental Health Clinicians

The Office of Mental Health is awarding state aid grants for community agencies that want to offer student loan repayment funds to eligible professionals in exchange for a 3-year service commitment.

Agencies must provide eligible mental health programs licensed or authorized by OMH.

For the 2026 MH Clinicians RFP up to $5M is available annually ($15M over 3 years). These funds will support a minimum of 500 awards. $1.5M annually ($4.5M over 3 years) is set aside for eligible professionals who, as members of groups traditionally underrepresented in the mental health field, provide culturally competent care for populations underserved in mental health.

Agencies can apply on behalf eligible professionals with the following titles for awards of up to $30,000 over the 3-year service commitment:

• licensed master social workers (LMSWs)
• licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs)
• licensed mental health counselors (LMHCs)
• licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs)
• licensed creative arts therapists (LCATs)
• licensed occupational therapists (OTR/Ls or OT/Ls)
• licensed psychoanalysts
• licensed psychologists

The Marion Kellum Performing Arts Scholarship, administered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, aims to support graduating high school seniors pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts or related degrees. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and documented involvement in at least five theatre productions. This non-renewable scholarship provides essential financial assistance to nurture talent in the performing arts, enhancing the cultural landscape of South Lake County.

Name of Grant Program: 

TB Prevention and Control Regional TB Specialty Clinic Services

Purpose for Which the Grant Program Funds Shall Be Used:

To provide clinical care, treatment, nurse case management and/or outreach services to TB cases and suspects, their associated contacts and Class B1/B2 immigrants and refugees for a defined group of local health jurisdictions.

The Immanuel Vision Foundation Grants support 501(c)(3) nonprofits that align with their mission of meeting the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of seniors, enhancing community health, and supporting the ministry of the Church. Since 2015, the Foundation has prioritized organizations that demonstrate strong leadership and financial stability, while addressing strategic health concerns in Nebraska and select Iowa counties. Special consideration is given to initiatives focused on seniors and community health, ensuring a culture of wellness and dignity.

The IEN-WMAN Mini-Grant Program provides crucial financial support to Indigenous communities and grassroots organizations impacted by mining in the U.S. and Canada. With over $200,000 distributed annually in $4,000 grants, the program aims to address mining-related environmental and health issues. Priority is given to proposals that demonstrate a direct impact on affected communities, particularly Indigenous-led initiatives, ensuring that financial assistance is directed where it is most needed.

The Lincoln Community Foundation's Open Door Grants offer year-round support for nonprofit organizations in Lancaster County. These grants provide flexible funding for operations, programs, and capital projects across various sectors, including arts, education, and health services. Applicants must be 501c3 organizations operating within the county and demonstrate a commitment to community impact and equity. This initiative aims to foster a prosperous and inclusive community by addressing essential needs and opportunities.

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois will make a sustainable philanthropic impact in our community through visible leadership in connecting people who care with causes that matter.

Joyce and Thomas H. Stanisic Scholarship Fund 

The Joyce and Thomas H. Stanisic Scholarship Fund was established to award scholarships based on need to students working toward a degree or certification in the music or healthcare fields. This scholarship will be given for the entire expected course of study, up to 4 years.

About Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation

Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) emerged from the front yard lemonade stand of 4- year-old Alexandra “Alex” Scott, who was fighting cancer and wanted to raise money to find cures for all children with cancer. Her spirit and determination inspired others to support her cause, and when she passed away at the age of 8, she had raised $1 million. Since then, the Foundation bearing her name has evolved into a national fundraising movement. Today, ALSF is one of the leading funders of pediatric cancer research in the U.S. and Canada, funding research projects and providing programs to families affected by childhood cancer. ALSF is one of the only childhood cancer research organizations that has been given the NCI peer-reviewed funder designation for rigorous selection of research grants. The mission of ALSF is to change the lives of children with cancer through funding impactful research, raising awareness, supporting families, and empowering everyone to help cure childhood cancer.

Bio-Therapeutic Impact Award

The Bio-Therapeutic Impact Award accelerates the development of clinical trials for promising biologic approaches to treating childhood cancer. These approaches include, but are not limited to, immunotherapy, gene therapy and small molecules. The award, intended for investigators who are initiating clinical trials, totals the maximum of $1.8 million awarded over three years.

The Project Bread Summer Eats Grant Program aims to combat hunger in Massachusetts by supporting Summer Eats sponsors with grants up to $7,500. The initiative focuses on expanding access to nutritious meals for children during the summer months when school is not in session. Through partnerships with local communities and organizations, Project Bread ensures that all children remain nourished and advocates for policies that enhance food accessibility.

About DHHL Grants

As part of the Native Hawaiian Development Program Plan, the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) makes available annual grant funding to nonprofit organizations that demonstrate a purpose to benefit native Hawaiians. DHHL has offered grants in several program areas over the years as a means of implementing the community development component of the rehabilitation fund. Grant offerings reflect the department’s priorities and community interests.

Grant for Program Implementation located in Existing Homesteads

DHHL is seeking grant proposals statewide for improvements to facilities located in existing homesteads on Hawaiian Home Lands. The facility must serve existing homestead communities and benefit DHHL homestead lessees. Proposed projects may include but are not limited to any project listed in any HHC-approved DHHL Regional Plan, including those listed as "Potential" or "Priority" Projects. 

Projects may include but are not limited to all project phases: planning, due diligence, design, construction for infrastructure, and community facilities in existing homesteads. Projects must benefit DHHL homestead lessees in implementing their homestead visions as described in DHHL Regional Plans. Partnerships and teams of DHHL beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries, including individuals and organizations, are encouraged to apply. Projects must be beneficiary-driven, demonstrate beneficiary leadership and assistance, and benefit existing DHHL homestead lessees.

The MA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in Massachusetts by funding projects that promote marketing, research, and access to these crops. It addresses the USDA's goals and focuses on providing healthy, affordable food options while supporting underserved communities. The program runs from October 1, 2023, to September 29, 2026, and aims to improve economic opportunities in urban, rural, and suburban areas.

National Collegiate Cancer Foundation

The National Collegiate Cancer Foundation (NCCF) is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting young adults diagnosed with or impacted by cancer. Its mission is to provide services, resources, and need-based financial assistance that empower survivors and their families to adopt a resilient “Will Win” mindset throughout treatment and beyond. NCCF is one of the few national organizations that provides direct financial support to young adult cancer survivors, primarily through its Survivor and Legacy Scholarships, which assist students pursuing higher education during or after treatment. The Foundation also promotes cancer awareness and prevention within the young adult community. Recognizing that adolescents and young adults (ages 15–39) face unique challenges—including delayed diagnoses, limited access to insurance and clinical trials, fertility concerns, employment disruption, and social isolation—NCCF prioritizes addressing the significant service gaps affecting this underserved population. Operated entirely by volunteers, NCCF remains committed to advancing educational access, financial relief, and hope for young adult cancer survivors nationwide.

NCCF: Survivor Scholarship Program

The National Collegiate Cancer Foundation (NCCF) Survivor Scholarship Program provides a competitive scholarships to young adults who are cancer survivors or current patients and are pursuing higher education during or after treatment. The program supports students who have demonstrated resilience and continued their educational journey despite the challenges of cancer. Applications are evaluated based on six criteria: demonstration of a strong “Will Win” attitude, quality of essays, financial need, overall cancer survivorship story, commitment to education, and the quality of recommendations. The scholarship recognizes perseverance, hope, and dedication to academic and personal growth.

The Ryan Hudak LGBTQ+ Dramatic Writing Award offers an $8,000 grant to a New York State-based LGBTQ+ playwright or screenwriter. This honor celebrates the legacy of Ryan Hudak, a talented creator who passed away in 2022. The award supports individuals living in New York, including the five boroughs of NYC. It is intended for applicants with completed works, ensuring that funds are not restricted to specific projects, fostering creativity and artistic expression.

The Twin Tiers Christian Service Fund offers the Christian Holistic Living Grant, providing up to $2,500 to support holistic and spiritual living initiatives in Chemung and adjacent counties. This grant aims to enhance community engagement through events and training in spiritual practices. Priority is given to programs promoting equity, community impact, collaboration, innovation, and sustainability. Organizations must be registered 501(c)3 or have a fiscal sponsor to be eligible.