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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

SESOT Fall Meeting Abstract Submission Award

Society of Toxicology
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The SESOT Fall Meeting Abstract Submission Award invites submissions for poster or platform presentations at the October 10, 2025 Fall SESOT Meeting in Clemson. Eligible participants include undergraduate, master's, PhD, and postdoctoral trainees who are SESOT members. Awards will be presented for the best presentations at the SESOT Reception during the SOT Meeting in March. New investigators may present but are not eligible for awards.
Education - Higher Education Environmental Chemistry & Toxicology Biomedical informatics

Dan L Duncan Houston Safari Club Foundation Scholarship Program

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Dan L Duncan Houston Safari Club Foundation Scholarship Program, administered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports full-time students pursuing degrees in Wildlife Management or Range Management at accredited Texas colleges. Applicants must be juniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate a commitment to wildlife management. This scholarship offers funding for tuition, fees, books, and other educational expenses, helping to develop future leaders in conservation and wildlife advocacy.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Wildlife Management

Blue Bird Auxiliary Scholarship Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
US $8,000
The Blue Bird Auxiliary Scholarship Fund, established by the San Antonio Area Foundation, offers financial support for graduate and current college students pursuing degrees in healthcare-related fields. Eligible candidates must maintain a GPA of 3.1 and be active volunteers with the Blue J/Blue Bird organization. This scholarship, renewable for up to three years, covers tuition, fees, books, and living expenses, helping students achieve their educational goals while serving the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Nursing +3 more

Latinos in Technology Scholarship

Silicon Valley Community Foundation
Private
Alameda County, California, Contra Costa County, California +9 more
Up to US $18,000
The Latinos in Technology Scholarship, funded by the Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley, aims to empower Latino students pursuing STEM careers. Awardees receive up to $6,000 annually for their undergraduate education, with professional development opportunities, mentorship, and internship access. This initiative not only addresses the underrepresentation of Latinos in STEM but also fosters a supportive community to help students transition successfully into the workforce.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Hispanic and Latino Services +1 more

Curry Award for Girls and Young Women

Silicon Valley Community Foundation
Private
San Mateo County, California
Up to US $1,000
The Curry Award for Girls and Young Women, established by Eleanor Williams Curry, offers scholarships to young women aged 18-26 in San Mateo County. Applicants must demonstrate financial hardship and have a GPA of 3.3 or lower. This fund encourages those who have faced significant challenges, including ethnic or racial discrimination and physical disabilities, to pursue their education in a supportive environment. Preference is given to students from specific high schools and those planning to enroll as full-time college students.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +1 more

Manasota ASALH Scholarship

Manasota Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH)
Association/Society
Manatee County, Florida, Sarasota County, Florida
Unspecified amount
The Manasota ASALH Scholarship offers financial support to Black high school seniors in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate leadership within their school and community. Successful candidates will undergo an interview process and must provide proof of enrollment in an accredited four-year institution to receive funds. This scholarship promotes academic achievement and community involvement among deserving students.
Academic Scholarship Programs Black American Services Black American Culture & Heritage +1 more

Alice Kleeman and Joseph Buttram Impact Scholarship

Silicon Valley Community Foundation
Private
Alameda County, California, San Mateo County, California +1 more
Up to US $10,000
The Alice Kleeman and Joseph Buttram Impact Scholarship, established in 2008, honors the journey of Joe Buttram, who overcame challenges with the support of mentors like Alice Kleeman. This scholarship aims to empower current high school seniors and community college students from specific local schools, promoting access to higher education for those with a minimum GPA of 2.75 and demonstrated financial need. It reflects Joe's commitment to uplifting students who share his determination and potential.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +1 more

Addressing HCP Knowledge Gaps in Baseline Assessments for Adults with Ulcerative Colitis Starting S1P Receptor Modulator Therapy

Pfizer, Inc.
Corporate
United States
Up to US $100,000
This program aims to enhance education for healthcare professionals regarding new therapies and patient management in ulcerative colitis (UC). It focuses on multi-channel educational strategies to address the evolving landscape of UC treatment. Key areas include educating on new oral therapies, transitioning to advanced therapies, and managing isolated proctitis. Organizations such as healthcare institutions and medical education companies are eligible to apply, ensuring a comprehensive approach to improving UC care.
Digestive System Health & Diseases Crohn’s Disease And Colitis

RFP- Healthy Ecosystems Habitat and Native Species Conservaton Projects- Small Grant Category

Lake Champlain Basin Program
State/Local Government
New York, Vermont
Up to US $50,000
The Lake Champlain Basin Program invites proposals for the Healthy Ecosystems Habitat and Native Species Conservation Projects - Small Grant Category. This initiative aims to enhance the ecosystem through projects that preserve and restore native species habitats. Grants of up to $50,000 will be awarded to support wetland, riparian, and aquatic habitat improvements, diversify fish communities, and implement flood-resilient practices. Eligible projects may include native species surveys and critical habitat conservation.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Freshwater Conservation Fish Conservation

RFP- Healthy Ecosystems Habitat and Native Species Conservaton Projects- Large Grant Category

Lake Champlain Basin Program
State/Local Government
New York, Vermont
US $50,001 - US $175,000
The Lake Champlain Basin Program invites proposals for the Healthy Ecosystems Habitat and Native Species Conservation Projects. This funding opportunity aims to enhance native species habitats, improve water quality, and promote biodiversity in the Lake Champlain Basin. Grants ranging from $50,001 to $175,000 will support projects that implement sustainable practices such as riparian plantings and native species surveys, contributing to the health of ecosystems in partnership with local communities and organizations.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Freshwater Conservation Fish Conservation

AACPDM Mentored Research Grant

American Academy For Cerebral Palsy And Developmental Medicine
Private
United States
US $15,000

About Us

The American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine (AACPDM) is an Academy of over 1,100 health professionals dedicated to advancing the health and well-being of all individuals with cerebral palsy and other childhood-onset disabilities. AACPDM is like no other professional society! The “teamwork” mindset of our members solidifies a worldwide network that provides the most effective outcomes for patients. We are pediatricians, neurologists, surgeons, rehabilitators, therapists, nurses, special educators, engineers, and scientists.

AACPDM Mentored Research Grant 

A key part of the AACPDM mission is to foster innovative research as well as its dissemination and implementation. One way the Academy promotes research is through the annual Research Grant Program.

AACPDM Research Grants provide support to bring together investigators from diverse geographical locations to obtain pilot data, statistical consultation and develop a multi-center research study plan.

AACPDM is excited to accept research grant applications that align with the Academy's mission to support a collaborative multidisciplinary community that provides robust scientific education, fosters innovative research, and advocates for equitable access to evidence-based care.

Research grant funding supports high-quality clinical research projects/programs. The award may be used to fund planning for a project or to complete a small research project.

Cerebral Palsy Children With Disabilities

CHEJ Small Grants Program

Center for Health, Environment & Justice
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

CHEJ Small Grants Program

The Small Grants Program has officially relaunched. Applications are now open.The Center for Health, Environment & Justice’s (CHEJ) Small Grants Program is for grassroots groups working on environmental health and justice issues related to the presence of “toxics” (toxic chemicals or hazardous substances) in their immediate communities. CHEJ prioritizes community-based organizations aiming to have local, state and regional impact through their own strategies and actions.

Environmental Health Environmental Justice & Advocacy

Clean Water – Small Grants for Implementation

Lake Champlain Basin Program
State/Local Government
New York, Vermont
Up to US $50,000
The Clean Water – Small Grants for Implementation aims to enhance water quality in the Lake Champlain Basin by funding projects that directly reduce pollution. With approximately $680,000 available, this program encourages innovative planning and implementation initiatives. Organizations can submit one proposal per grant category, and multiple awards are anticipated. Supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, this initiative is vital for advancing clean water goals in the region.
Freshwater Conservation Environmental Contamination & Pollution Environmental Stewardship

Clean Water – Large Grants For Implementation

Lake Champlain Basin Program
State/Local Government
New York, Vermont
US $50,001 - US $200,000
The Lake Champlain Basin Program is offering approximately $680,000 in grants for projects aimed at improving water quality in the Lake Champlain Basin. This funding opportunity seeks to support initiatives that directly reduce pollution through effective planning and implementation. Eligible organizations can submit one proposal per grant category, with multiple awards anticipated. This initiative, in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, emphasizes the importance of clean water in the region.
Freshwater Conservation Environmental Contamination & Pollution Environmental Stewardship

Clean Water – Planning Projects Grant

Lake Champlain Basin Program
State/Local Government
Canada, New York +1 more
Up to US $100,000
The Clean Water – Grants For Planning program, managed by the Patrick Leahy Lake Champlain Basin Program in partnership with NEIWPCC, aims to enhance water quality in the Lake Champlain Basin. With approximately $680,000 available, this funding opportunity supports planning and implementation projects that address pollution reduction. Eligible organizations can submit one proposal per grant category, with multiple awards anticipated. This initiative is crucial for advancing sustainable water quality improvements in the region.
Freshwater Conservation Environmental Contamination & Pollution Environmental Stewardship

Manatee Community Foundation: Competitive Grants for Health & Human Services

Manatee Community Foundation
Private
Manatee County, Florida
Up to US $15,000
The Manatee Community Foundation offers Competitive Grants for Health & Human Services, focusing on mental health, access to healthcare, substance use recovery, and services for vulnerable populations including veterans and seniors. With a mission to enhance community welfare through philanthropy, the foundation prioritizes funding for projects that demonstrate proven success and strong governance. They do not support grants to individuals or unrelated charities, ensuring that resources directly benefit residents of Manatee County.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Military & Veterans Services Senior Services +1 more

Peterson-Schaubach Outstanding Leadership Award

Education Minnesota
Private
Minnesota
Unspecified amount
The Peterson-Schaubach Outstanding Leadership Award recognizes exceptional contributions from Education Minnesota leaders who embody the organization's principles. This prestigious award is open for nominations annually, highlighting individuals who have significantly impacted public education through active membership and leadership. The nomination process is initiated by the Education Minnesota President, with timelines announced to the Governing Board. This award reflects the commitment to members, the profession, and the values of education and social justice.
Workers’ Rights Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights Teacher Development & Training +3 more

Everett & Roy Hill Music Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Everett & Roy Hill Music Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports graduating seniors from Chelan, Douglas, or Okanogan counties who are pursuing further education in music. This scholarship emphasizes the importance of musical education, reflecting the philanthropic spirit of Everett Hill, who aimed to enrich his community. Eligible candidates must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 to continue receiving support for up to two years.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +1 more

Advancing Black Arts in Pittsburgh: Project Support

Pittsburgh Foundation
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania
Up to US $50,000
The Advancing Black Arts in Pittsburgh program supports individual artists and nonprofit organizations with project grants up to $50,000 and general operating support up to $100,000. This initiative aims to uplift Black culture across various artistic disciplines, encouraging projects that promote identity, innovation, and community empowerment. Eligible applicants can apply for funding to enhance their artistic endeavors, focusing on social justice, cultural criticism, and public policy engagement, thereby fostering a vibrant arts scene reflective of the African diaspora.
Black American Culture & Heritage Arts / Culture Access & Participation Artist Residencies +1 more

Ramiro Cortes Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Ramiro Cortes Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, honors the legacy of composer Ramiro Cortés, who was a pioneering Mexican-American musician. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from Chelan or Douglas counties who are pursuing full-time music studies. Funded entirely by concert proceeds, it aims to foster new talent in classical music while commemorating Cortés’ significant contributions to the field.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +1 more

Paul and Karen Pugh Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
Chelan County, Washington
Unspecified amount
The Paul and Karen Pugh Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, provides financial assistance to students pursuing a nursing career at Wenatchee Valley Community College. Eligible applicants must have graduated from high schools in Chelan, Douglas, Okanogan, or Grant Counties. Preference is given to those aiming for a BSN or RN degree. This renewable scholarship supports students in their educational endeavors, fostering the next generation of nursing professionals.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +1 more

Katie Moore Memorial Nursing Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Katie Moore Memorial Nursing Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports students pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. Preference is given to those specializing in pediatric nursing and with relevant experience. Eligible candidates must have completed two years of college with a minimum GPA of 3.5 or be enrolled in an RN to BSN program. This scholarship honors Katie Moore's legacy and aims to foster compassionate care for children.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +1 more

Kathryn Lodge Mhatre Creative Writing Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Kathryn Lodge Mhatre Creative Writing Scholarship honors the memory of Kathryn Lodge Mhatre, a passionate writer and compassionate individual who tragically lost her battle with mental illness. Established by her parents, this scholarship supports students from Chelan or Douglas County pursuing creative writing. Eligible applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and provide a writing sample, reflecting Kathryn's dedication to learning and her love for storytelling.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +1 more

Junior Hamilton Memorial Baseball Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Junior Hamilton Memorial Baseball Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports graduating seniors from Wenatchee, Eastmont, or Westside High Schools. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.85 and have participated in a high school baseball program for at least two years. This scholarship honors Junior Hamilton's legacy, empowering student-athletes and mariachi students to pursue higher education and achieve their dreams.
Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs Baseball & Softball +1 more

Alex O Santillanes Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Alex O. Santillanes Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of NCW, honors the legacy of Alex O. Santillanes, a dedicated youth advocate in the Yakima Valley. This scholarship supports Hispanic high school seniors from the region pursuing higher education in Washington. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and demonstrate resilience against social and economic inequities, particularly those from single-parent families. The scholarship aims to empower the next generation of leaders.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +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.