Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

SECU Foundation Grant

Purpose

The SECU Foundation promotes local and community development by primarily funding high impact projects in the areas of housing, education, healthcare and human services. The State Employees’ Credit Union Board of Directors chartered the SECU Foundation to help identify and address community issues that are beyond the normal scope of State Employees’ Credit Union. While individual members may not have a large impact, collectively and cooperatively the Foundation can go a long way toward helping solve problems in our neighborhoods, schools and our community at large.

Mission Development Grants

Mission Development Grants support smaller non-profits in building organizational capacity through assessment, goal setting, and strategic planning for long-term sustainability. Prioritized nonprofits will:

• Be located in a Tier 1 county, rural community, or underfunded region
• Provide direct services in housing, healthcare, education, or human services
• Operate with an annual budget between $100,000 and $1.5 million
• Have been in operation for between 3 and 10 years, or be navigating a leadership transition
• Be located in a county with limited prior SECU Foundation grant support

Grants are limited by SECU Foundation funding. We do not place minimum or maximum restrictions on the amount that may be requested in a grant proposal.

The Burroughs Wellcome Fund's Climate Change and Human Health Seed Grants aim to foster innovative collaborations among diverse fields to address climate change's effects on health. With $1M dedicated from Fall 2023 to Summer 2026, grants range from $2,500 to $50,000. This initiative encourages partnerships between biomedical scientists, public health experts, and community organizations, promoting sustainable health systems and effective climate communication. Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis, emphasizing creative solutions to pressing health challenges.

Adirondack Community Foundation

For three decades, Adirondack Community Foundation has been a steady hand, helping our region grow from within.

Our Mission: Connecting people, ideas, and resources to improve lives and expand opportunities throughout the Adirondack region.

Small Grants for Small Food Pantries

Small Grants for Small Food Pantries at Adirondack Community Foundation makes grants available to food pantries to help with infrastructure and long-term improvements that allow them to provide more fresh food options and better support volunteers. One-time grants of up to $1,500 per pantry may be used to upgrade equipment or technology, provide volunteer training, or improve signage and displays to help people choose better options.

The Physician Assistant Scholarship, managed by the Beckley Area Foundation, aims to support students from Raleigh County, WV, pursuing a degree as a physician's assistant at accredited West Virginia colleges. This scholarship considers both merit and financial need, providing essential financial assistance to help local students achieve their educational aspirations. Through a universal application process, eligible students can access multiple scholarship opportunities with ease, ensuring a streamlined approach to funding their higher education.

The NIA Expanding Research in AD/ADRD Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program aims to enhance the research workforce by providing intensive research experiences for recent graduates. This initiative supports early-stage investigators in Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias, addressing a critical shortage of researchers in the field. Participants engage in independent research, mentorship, and professional development, equipping them with skills necessary for advanced degrees and research careers in aging and dementia. The program fosters innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration essential for advancing AD/ADRD research.

The Robert and Margaret Sayre Scholarship, managed by the Beckley Area Foundation, supports non-traditional students aged 25 and older in their pursuit of higher education. This initiative is part of the Foundation's broader mission to enhance community welfare through charitable giving. By offering tailored scholarships, the Foundation aims to empower local students, ensuring they have the resources needed to achieve their educational aspirations and contribute positively to Southern West Virginia.

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.

The Grand Foundation Annual Grant supports non-profit organizations in Grand County, Colorado, awarding over $216,000 to 47 organizations this year alone. With a mission to enhance the community's quality of life, the foundation funds projects in arts, health services, environment, education, and sports. They encourage collaboration among agencies and prioritize measurable outcomes. The foundation's commitment to local needs is evident as they strive to raise sufficient funds to meet all grant requests, embodying the motto 'Give Where You Live, Work, and Play'.

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.

The Community Foundation of St. Joseph County offers the Special Project Grant to support nonprofit organizations serving local community needs. This initiative matches every dollar raised by the grant recipient, encouraging collaborative fundraising efforts. Eligible projects focus on community development, health services, environmental initiatives, and youth education. While arts-related proposals are generally directed to a separate grant process, those that primarily address health and human services using arts as a tool may apply here.

The Emergency Response Equipment Grant Program by Compeer Financial aims to bolster rural communities by providing funding for essential emergency response equipment for volunteer fire, rescue, and ambulance departments. With grants up to $4,000, this initiative ensures that first responders have the necessary tools to protect and serve their communities effectively. Eligibility is limited to rural departments in the 144-county territory, ensuring that help reaches those who need it most.

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.

The Sam and Maud Turner & Carole Ann Turner Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Beckley Area Foundation, aims to support graduating seniors from select high schools in Southern West Virginia. This scholarship encourages students to pursue higher education, offering financial assistance tailored to their specific needs and academic goals. By fostering educational opportunities, the foundation reinforces its commitment to enhancing community welfare and student success in the region.

The Farmers Market Grant Program by Compeer Financial aims to support organizations enhancing services at farmers markets. Grants of up to $1,000 are available for marketing efforts, technology upgrades, and vendor education. Eligible applicants must be bona fide farmers markets with at least three vendors of locally-produced products and must operate in the designated 144-county area. Priority is given to markets that have not previously received funding.

The Wilkes Family Scholarship, managed by the Beckley Area Foundation, supports students attending Concord University in West Virginia. This scholarship aims to assist with tuition, fees, and living expenses while requiring two teacher recommendations to ensure candidates demonstrate strong character and academic potential. Preference is given to West Virginia residents and graduates from Raleigh County high schools, reflecting the foundation's commitment to fostering local educational success.

Provider Capacity Grants for Rural and Underserved Communities: Round Four

The Department of Human Services (DHS) Grants, Equity, Access, and Research (GEAR) Division (STATE) has the authority to enter into grant contracts that will increase the number and capacity of Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) providers in rural and or serving rural or underserved communities pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 256.01, subdivision 2(a)(6). This grant opportunity is funded through the Minnesota Legislature Laws of Chapter 61 - MN Laws Section 59. PROVIDER CAPACITY GRANTS FOR RURAL AND UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES. Grant applicant represents that it is duly qualified and willing to perform the services set forth in this grant application to the satisfaction of STATE.   

Funding Requirements

The primary goals of this funding are to reduce disparities, increase access, and advance equity in the availability and delivery of Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) across Minnesota. Successful capacity-building proposals must strengthen and enhance HCBS, with a particular focus on expanding existing HCBS programs’ access in rural and underserved communities. Applicants are required to clearly describe how the proposed funding will be used to build capacity, improve access, and enhance the delivery of HCBS. Proposals must also demonstrate compliance with all applicable HCBS licensing requirements and operational standards.

Grant funds will be awarded competitively to organizations that serve Medical Assistance (MA) recipients who are eligible for Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), that are enhancing/expanding existing services to serving MA recipients eligible for HCBS. Funds must be used by organizations that currently serve MA recipients eligible for HCBS. Only organizations currently licensed and enrolled in MHCP are eligible to apply for this grant funding.  

The Aslan Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations in the greater Knoxville area, focusing on arts, culture, animal welfare, and historic preservation. It promotes public-private partnerships for land conservation and recreational development. Notable projects include High Ground Park and the Loghaven Artist Residency. Eligible applicants are U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations whose activities benefit the Knoxville community. The application process occurs annually from June 30 to July 30.

The Great Lakes Bay Pride Scholarship, offered by the Saginaw Community Foundation, supports Michigan residents dedicated to promoting respect and acceptance across diverse backgrounds. This scholarship is open to high school seniors and college students pursuing undergraduate or Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, with awards ranging from $500 to $4,000. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate commitment through volunteer work in the LGBTQ+ community.

The Meyerhoff Family Charitable Funds focus on supporting organizations that enhance the quality of life in Baltimore City and the local Jewish community. They provide various forms of funding, including operating and programmatic support, while emphasizing the importance of sustaining middle neighborhoods. Their grantmaking process involves a Letter of Inquiry, followed by a potential full application, ensuring careful consideration of each proposal. Note that they do not accept unsolicited applications.

The Margaret Beelard Community Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) public charities and government agencies operating in Vacaville and Solano County. The foundation is committed to advancing educational programs for children and alleviating poverty, with a special focus on cancer research. Applications must be submitted in print, as electronic submissions are not accepted. The board reviews applications quarterly and informs applicants of their decisions in writing.

The Youth Access to Nature Fund, established by Justice Outside, aims to enhance access to nature for youth of color in the San Francisco Bay Area. With a focus on racial justice and environmental education, the fund supports projects that empower young leaders and promote mental well-being. Grants up to $25,000 are available for initiatives that engage communities and foster relationships with the outdoors, ensuring that marginalized voices are prioritized in environmental movements.

Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation

The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation serves Linn County, Iowa, as a convenor and partner to donors, funders, and nonprofit organizations working together to build vibrant and inclusive communities where all people can thrive.

Founded in 1949 as the Community Welfare Foundation, we became a public community foundation in 1992. Today, we steward more than $261 million in charitable assets across more than 1,100 funds, generating grants for the greater good of Linn County.

We bring people together to strengthen our community through philanthropy. We inspire giving, fund important programs, advocate for equity, promote learning, and invest in community initiatives to improve the quality of life in Linn County.

Bruce and Judy McGrath Family Fund

The Bruce and Judy McGrath Family Fund supports organizations that help individuals gain access to medical, mental health, legal and educational/vocational services. Priorities

This fund supports organizations that help individuals gain access to:

• medical,
• mental health,
• legal and
• educational/vocational services.

Grand Rapids Community Foundation

Connecting people, passion and resources

The Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that connects people, passion and resources. With our partners, the Community Foundation uses the tools of philanthropy to find solutions to pressing issues. We provide grants to support the work of nonprofits, scholarships to local students and other forms of support to communities working to eliminate barriers to opportunity, prosperity and belonging.

Our Mission is to build and manage our community’s permanent endowment and lead the community to strengthen the lives of its people.

We envision a magnetic and interconnected West Michigan community.

Integrity, Excellence, Inclusion, Sustainability and Bold Aspirations

Give and Receive Openly, Build Trust with Each Other, Create Brave and Safe Space, Embrace Vulnerability, Accountability

Our North Star

For West Michigan to grow and prosper, we must make sure that everyone can apply their talents and creativity to fuel our future. It is only by connecting across perspectives and overcoming inequities that we can build and sustain an inclusive economy and thriving community.

Opportunities for students

Apply for scholarships to support your ambitions

Each year Grand Rapids Community Foundation supports hundreds of students on their college or career training journeys. We are excited to remove barriers to academic success so that students like you can pursue what you're passionate about.

Scholarship Fund Details

Support for West Michigan Students

Attending college or trade school increases opportunity and opens doors to careers. Donor partners who establish a scholarship fund give students a boost on their path to higher education. Students who complete the general scholarship application are considered for these scholarships.

Open to full time, third-year or higher undergraduate students who are 2+ year residents of Kent County enrolled in a STEM major.

The Island Foundation's Womxn and Girls Grant aims to support organizations that address the root causes of inequality for womxn and girls in the U.S. By focusing on innovative, community-driven solutions, the Foundation seeks to empower womxn and girls of color through initiatives that enhance access to healthcare, economic security, and political representation. With a commitment to systemic change, this grant fosters intergenerational collaborations and prioritizes sustainable organizations working towards gender equity.

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

The mission of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is to create equitable economic opportunities across the State of Illinois. By attracting and supporting major job creators, investing in communities, strengthening Illinois’ world-class workforce, fostering innovation, and ushering in the new clean energy economy, DCEO works to fortify Illinois’ reputation as a global economic powerhouse while ensuring Illinois is the best state to live, work and do business.

Manufacturing Training Academies

Program Description

The Manufacturing Training Academies Grant Program will provide capital grants to establish advanced workforce training facilities at downstate Illinois community colleges (defined as community college districts located outside Cook and the collar counties). The workforce training to be subsequently provided will foster development in manufacturing operations aligned with priority industries identified in the Illinois Economic Growth Plan. Priority industries relevant to this opportunity include:

• Life Sciences;
• Quantum Computing, AI, and Microelectronics;
• Clean Energy Production and Manufacturing;
• Advanced Manufacturing; and
• Next Generation Agriculture, Ag Tech and Food Processing.

These capital grants may fund the construction of facilities and purchases of durable equipment needed to establish manufacturing training academies. Specialized manufacturing training academies will foster development of priority industries, greater opportunities in high-wage careers, increased specialization, and increased industry support and collaboration in manufacturing workforce training. 

The Holomua Marine Initiative Pāpio Grants, offered by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, aim to support projects that enhance community engagement and stewardship in Hawai’i's nearshore marine areas. With funding requests up to $10,000 USD for durations of 12 to 24 months, this initiative aligns with the Sustainable Hawaiʻi Initiative launched in 2016, focusing on the effective management of Hawaiʻi’s waters to ensure a healthy environment and economy.

The Gorham/McGee Early Learning Fund Grant, managed by The Denver Foundation, aims to support nonprofits focused on enhancing education for children aged 0-12 in areas like literacy, nature, and the arts. With a commitment to reducing racial disparities, the fund awards grants of $5,000, encouraging organizations in Colorado to apply and contribute to a more equitable future for the community.