Upcoming Webinar
Instrumentl Fall Launch: Your Grant Operating System Has Leveled Up.
Wed, Nov 4 @ 2PM ET

Skip to main content
Main content

Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

Get professional development grants for nonprofit staff training, leadership growth, and skills-based learning.

33,000+

Available grants

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$9.00B total
$6K median

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

Skip the search.

Get matched with grants that actually fit.

Smart recommendations based on your profile — in minutes.

Find me grants

Filters

32,545 Results based on applied filters

Arts & Culture: Ann and Abe Effron Donor Advised Fund Grants

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley
Private
Dutchess County, New York
Up to US $3,000
The Ann and Abe Effron Donor Advised Fund Grants support local nonprofit organizations in Dutchess County, focusing on arts, culture, and education. Grants prioritize projects that enhance accessibility for young people and seniors. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and serve county residents. The foundation promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in community life. Applications are encouraged for projects that align with these values, while grants are not awarded for individual support or fundraising events.
Art & Culture Education Arts / Culture Access & Participation +2 more

APAF: Jeanne Spurlock Congressional Fellowship

American Psychiatric Association Foundation
Private
District of Columbia
Up to US $103,500
The Jeanne Spurlock Congressional Fellowship, honoring Dr. Jeanne Spurlock, offers two psychiatry residents or early career psychiatrists the chance to work in a congressional office for 10 months. Funded by the APA Foundation, this fellowship provides a stipend of $85,000, a $10,000 housing allowance, and health insurance support. Recipients gain invaluable experience in federal legislative healthcare issues, engage with policymakers, and participate in APA meetings, enhancing their understanding of the intersection of policy, medicine, and mental health advocacy.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Children’s Mental Health

Human Services New York City

The New York Community Trust
Private
Bronx County, New York, Kings County, New York +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Human Services New York City program aims to alleviate poverty and reduce racial disparities through effective services and public benefits. Focused on early intervention, it supports vulnerable children and families, enhances housing stability, and increases access to essential resources. The initiative encourages collaboration among agencies to implement systemic solutions and improve the lives of low-income New Yorkers, ultimately fostering stability and independence.
Basic Human Needs Child Welfare Services Family Services +2 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

Craig Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Columbus Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000

The Columbus Foundation

In 1943, during the darkness of World War II, a group of passionate citizens, led by Columbus businessman Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the well-being of the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established.

Our Mission

To assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

Craig Memorial Scholarship Fund

This scholarship fund was established by the family of John E. Craig, Jr. and Larry William Craig. Both John and Larry were extremely gifted musicians. John was a noted musician in the central Ohio community, studying at the Berklee College of Music in Boston at the time of his death. A well-known musician and businessman, Larry excelled at playing the piano and worked with his father in Craig & Sons Wrecking Company. This scholarship fund will provide support to students who are pursuing careers in musical arts, theatre or drama.

Education - Higher Education Music Performing Arts +1 more

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

Rosendin Foundation Emergency Grant

The Rosendin Foundation
Private
Alabama, California +11 more
Up to US $5,000
The Rosendin Foundation Emergency Grant provides financial support for unplanned expenses due to unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters. Grants up to $5,000 are available for community-focused non-profit organizations in states where Rosendin and MPS operate. The foundation prioritizes emotional, occupational, and nutritional health initiatives, aiming to positively impact communities and empower individuals through financial support and volunteer efforts.
Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Nutrition & Healthy Eating +1 more

Pérez CreARTE Grants

The Miami Foundation
Private
Miami-Dade County, Florida
US $100,000 - US $250,000
The Pérez CreARTE Grants, funded by the Jorge M. Pérez Family Foundation, aim to enhance South Florida's vibrant arts scene. With over $1.5 million available, the program supports Miami-Dade organizations focusing on arts access, education, and artist fellowships. Grants range from $100,000 to $250,000 over two years, prioritizing innovative proposals that promote arts equity and community engagement. This initiative seeks to cultivate local talent and ensure access to diverse artistic experiences for all residents.
Artist Residencies Artist Training & Development Art Education +1 more

Eash-Potter Scholarship

The Foundation for Enhancing Communities
Private
United States
US $500 - US $10,000
The Eash-Potter Scholarship supports LGBTQ youth in central Pennsylvania, honoring Melinda Eash and Sharon Potter's legacy. It is available to graduating high school seniors from specific counties who demonstrate commitment to enhancing the community climate for LGBTQ+ individuals. Financial need is a consideration, and the scholarship is a one-time award. Students of color, transgender individuals, and children of LGBTQ+ parents are particularly encouraged to apply, promoting diversity and inclusion within the scholarship program.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs LGBTQIA+ Services +2 more

Phyllis Nilsen Leal Memorial Fund

Humboldt Area Foundation
Private
Humboldt County, California
Up to US $2,000

Grants

We’re Here to Support You

HAF+WRCF grant funding supports charitable programs and projects in our region (Humboldt, Del Norte, and Trinity counties in California, and Curry County, Oregon). 

Phyllis Nilsen Leal Memorial Fund '26-27

This sponsor will help to administer the funds which are granted.

Louis Leal established this fund in honor of his wife, Phyllis Nilsen Leal. The Leal Fund was established to provide children suffering from cancer, or other sicknesses, something to lift their spirits during their treatment. This could be a piece of equipment, a tutor, books, toys, or other items and experiences that could lift the child’s spirits.

Recipients can receive a maximum of $2,000 per person per fiscal year. 

Children’s Health & Pediatrics Child Welfare Services Pediatric Cancers

Sex Worker Giving Circle Grant

Third Wave Fund
Private
United States
Up to US $350,000
The Sex Worker Giving Circle Grant, launched by the Third Wave Fund, prioritizes funding for grassroots movements led by individuals directly impacted by gender oppression, especially within the sex work community. With a commitment to gender justice, the grant supports organizations that operate with a participatory approach to grantmaking, enabling them to address systemic inequalities. In recent years, the fund has distributed significant resources to empower and sustain these vital movements across the United States.
Intersex & Transgender Rights Women's Rights & Equality

School Action Fund Grant-Planning and Implementation Continuation Year 1

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
US $200,000 - US $400,000

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems. TEA helps deliver education to more than 5 million students under the leadership of the commissioner of education. The TEA operational costs are supported by both state and federal funds.

The Texas Education Agency administers federal and state grant awards to its subgrantees to carry out a program. Such entities include primarily school systems (referred to as local educational agencies [LEAs] in statutes), including independent school districts and charter schools; education service centers (ESCs); and, to a lesser degree, institutions of higher education (IHEs), nonprofit organizations (NPOs), and other statutorily allowable organizations.

School Action Fund Grant-Planning and Implementation Continuation Year 1

Program Description

The purpose of the 2026-2027 School Action Fund Grant-Planning and Implementation Continuation Year 1 grant is to assist applicants with the implementation and execution of already planned whole-school actions which received a School Action Fund Grant-Planning and Implementation (LASO 3) grant, and which will provide an opportunity for the applicant to create new and improved learning environments that sustainably increase student achievement, increase access to high-quality schools, meet community needs, and address chronic under-performance. 

Education - K through 12 Academic Success & Enrichment Student Retention & Drop-Out Prevention +1 more

Douglas W. Pfautz Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Foundation for Enhancing Communities
Private
United States
Up to US $500
The Douglas W. Pfautz Memorial Scholarship Fund honors a dedicated community servant and family man, Doug Pfautz. Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Elizabethtown, this scholarship supports high school seniors from the Elizabethtown Area School District who demonstrate good moral character and a commitment to community service. Applicants must maintain good academic standing and plan to pursue further education. This one-time award encourages students to embody the Rotary motto of 'Service Above Self', continuing Doug's legacy of service.
Academic Scholarship Programs Volunteerism & Philanthropy Education - Higher Education +1 more

Macchia Family Foundation Grant

Macchia Family Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

About

Macchia Family Foundation

Aims to assist those who cannot assist them selves, or who have attempted to better their own lives and/or the lives of their families but have come up just a little short.

  • Assisting children and people in need
  • Supporting social, educational and philanthropic programs that better peoples lives
  • Providing a helping hand to those who need it
Education Basic Human Needs Human & Social Services +3 more

Fishing is Fun Grant Program

Colorado Parks & Wildlife
State/Local Government
Colorado
Up to US $700,000
The Fishing is Fun Grant Program, managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, aims to enhance angling opportunities throughout Colorado by providing up to $700,000 annually in matching funds. This initiative supports a variety of projects including habitat improvements, access enhancements, and public amenities at fishing sites. Eligible applicants include local governments, recreation departments, and nonprofit organizations. Over 30 years, the program has funded 375 projects, promoting sustainable fishing practices and community engagement.
Sport Fishing Freshwater Conservation Recreational Water Use & Boating +1 more

NTSS Toshio Narahashi Neurotoxicology SS Trainee Conference Endowment Award

Society of Toxicology
Association/Society
United States
More than US $250
The NTSS Toshio Narahashi Neurotoxicology SS Trainee Conference Endowment Award offers a stipend of at least $250 to support deserving trainees in Neurotoxicology attending the SOT Annual Meeting. Selection is based on scientific merit and mentor support. This initiative, funded by the Toshio Narahashi Neurotoxicology Fellowship Award Fund, aims to enhance the professional development of trainees in toxicology.
Environmental Chemistry & Toxicology Neuroscience

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

Federal S.T.O.P. Violence Against Women Grant (S.T.O.P. VAWA)

Kansas Office of the Governor
State/Local Government
Kansas
Unspecified amount
The Federal S.T.O.P. Violence Against Women Grant (S.T.O.P. VAWA) aims to enhance law enforcement and prosecution strategies to address violent crimes against women. Funding is allocated as follows: 25% for law enforcement, 25% for prosecution, 5% for courts, and 30% for nonprofit victim service organizations, with 15% discretionary. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, Native American tribes, and nonprofit organizations, with a 25% match required for most projects.
Police & Law Enforcement Crime & Justice Crime Victim Services +1 more

Youth Regional Treatment Center Aftercare Program

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: Indian Health Service
Federal Government
United States
Unspecified amount
The Youth Regional Treatment Center Aftercare Program aims to support American Indian and Alaska Native youth in maintaining safety, sobriety, and success post-discharge from Youth Regional Treatment Centers. This initiative enhances culturally relevant, community-based aftercare by fostering care coordination, building partnerships, and addressing barriers to improve youth outcomes.
Youth Services Indigenous Health Systems Native American Services +1 more

Urban Indian Health 4-in-1 Program

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: Indian Health Service
Federal Government
United States
Unspecified amount
The Urban Indian Health 4-in-1 Program is designed to enhance the health and well-being of urban Native Americans through targeted initiatives in immunization, health promotion, disease prevention, mental health support, and addressing alcohol and substance abuse issues. Funded by the US Dept. of Health & Human Services, this program aims to improve access to essential health services and foster healthier communities among urban Indian populations.
Indigenous Health Systems Native American Services Indigenous Services +1 more

Tribal Epidemiology Centers

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: Indian Health Service
Federal Government
United States
Unspecified amount
The Tribal Epidemiology Centers initiative aims to support currently unserved areas through a new cohort of TEC sites. Funded by the US Dept. of Health & Human Services: Indian Health Service, this program seeks to enhance public health capacity within tribal communities, ensuring access to essential health services and resources. The initiative underscores a commitment to addressing health disparities and promoting wellness among Native populations.
Epidemiology & Public Health Indigenous Health Systems Native American Services +1 more

Salmon Recovery and Puget Sound Acquisition and Restoration Grant

Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office
State/Local Government
Washington
More than US $5,000
The Salmon Recovery and Puget Sound Acquisition and Restoration Grant aims to restore and protect salmon habitats, enhancing their health and numbers. The program focuses on vital areas in Puget Sound, the second-largest estuary in the U.S., and is a collaboration between the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office and the Puget Sound Partnership. Eligible projects must align with regional recovery plans and demonstrate effective habitat restoration strategies.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Land / Habitat Conservation

Perry L. McCarty AEESP Founders' Award

Association of Environmental Engineering and Science Professors Foundation (AEESP Foundation)
Association/Society
United States
US $2,250
The Perry L. McCarty AEESP Founders' Award, presented by the AEESP Foundation, honors outstanding contributions to environmental engineering education and research. It recognizes a professor's excellence in these fields, offering a plaque, a $1500 cash prize, and a $750 travel allotment for the awards ceremony. Nominations are accepted annually, with past submissions considered for three years. Careful adherence to nomination guidelines is essential for eligibility.
Entrepreneurship Environmental Engineering Environmental Stewardship +1 more

Steven K. Dentel AEESP Award for Global Outreach

Association of Environmental Engineering and Science Professors Foundation (AEESP Foundation)
Association/Society
United States
US $500
The Steven K. Dentel AEESP Award for Global Outreach recognizes faculty excellence in environmental engineering outreach. This annual award honors individuals who significantly contribute to global community health through education, research, and mentorship. Recipients receive a $500 cash award and a plaque. Nominations from students are welcomed, and past nominations can be modified within three years. This award aims to highlight sustained leadership and service in the environmental engineering field.
Environmental Engineering Environmental Stewardship Academic Success & Enrichment +1 more

V.I. Minahan Journalism Scholarship

Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region
Private
Winnebago County, Wisconsin
Up to US $2,000
The V.I. Minahan Journalism Scholarship, established in 2004 by Marilee Minahan in honor of her late husband, supports aspiring journalists. Two awards of $2,000 each are available for students pursuing degrees in Multimedia Journalism, Advertising, or Public Relations at UW-Oshkosh, requiring a minimum GPA of 2.75. This scholarship celebrates Vic Minahan's legacy as a dedicated publisher and veteran, fostering new talent in the field of journalism.
Academic Scholarship Programs College Success / Persistence Journalism +1 more

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

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.