Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Hagerstown Garden Club Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of Washington County, supports Washington County residents pursuing education in horticulture. Eligible applicants include graduating high school seniors and current college students with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship honors the legacy of the Hagerstown Garden Club and is part of a broader initiative to enhance community life through educational opportunities, fostering both personal and professional growth in the horticultural field.

The Paul and Martha Rees Fund Grant, established by BB&T in 2014, offers unrestricted funding to nonprofit organizations serving the Northern Shenandoah Valley. It aims to address compelling community needs in areas such as education, social services, and health. Eligible applicants include organizations benefiting residents in Winchester and surrounding counties. The fund prioritizes innovative proposals that leverage additional support and foster collaboration among local entities to enhance community quality of life.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency 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.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is a federal K–12 education law. ESSA was signed into law in 2015, replacing No Child Left Behind, and reauthorizing the original Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), which was signed into law in 1965 by President Lyndon Baines Johnson.

ESSA requires every state to measure performance in reading, math, and science. Every school must inform parents about their standards and their results. 

ESSA requires every state to provide parents important information on test performance in reading, math, and science. The report cards must also provide data on graduation rates, suspensions, absenteeism, teacher qualifications, and many other areas. Texas provides maximum transparency for parents and publicly shares performance information on TXschools.gov and in data reports on the Performance Reporting pages.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant includes: 1) Title I, Part A Grants; 2) Title I, Part C Grants; 3) Title I, Part D, Subpart 1 Grants; 4) Title I, Part D, Subpart 2 Grants; 5) Title II, Part A Grants; 6) Title III, Part A ELA Grants; 7) Title III, Part A Immigrant Grants; and 8) Title IV, Part A, Subpart 1 Grants.

Title III, Part A ELA

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

Title III, Part A, provides supplemental resources to school systems to help ensure that children who are English learners (EL)/emergent bilingual (EB) students, including immigrant students, attain English proficiency at high levels in academic subjects and can meet the same challenging State academic standards that all children are expected to meet.

Intended beneficiaries are English learners, including immigrant children and youth. 

The Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation offers Local Community Support Grants to foster innovative STEM/STEAM activities in Orange County, California. These grants aim to empower youth through hands-on science and technology engagement, promoting curiosity and exploration. Eligible U.S. nonprofit organizations can apply for funding to develop projects that align with the Foundation's mission of supporting young scientists for future breakthroughs. Preference is given to initiatives that build capacity and create innovative programs, rather than merely sustaining existing ones.

Dot Foods’ Charitable Grant Program offers small grants of $500 or less to support local nonprofits, schools, and government entities. This initiative aims to enhance community development, education, health, diversity, and safety. Dedicated employees at Dot Foods volunteer their time to manage fundraising efforts and grant approvals, ensuring that contributions effectively impact their local areas. Organizations must align their requests with these focus areas and be located near a Dot Foods facility to be eligible.

Charles J. and Burton S. August Foundation

Mission

The Charles J. and Burton S. August Foundation is a private charitable foundation dedicated to advancing the health and welfare of residents in the Greater Rochester, New York area. The Foundation supports nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations that demonstrate through programs and projects measurable impact on the well-being of those served.

Grant

What We Fund

To be considered for funding, organizations must identify a project, capital improvement, or one-time identifiable need which:

• Makes a positive long-term impact on neighborhoods and communities served.
• Benefits the lives of people served.
• Improves the physical space for safety, education and well-being.
• Outlines a planned approach with clear timelines and outcomes.

Organizations who have received funding must submit a report within 12 months of grant award. Organizations who do not submit a report will not be considered for future funding.

Grant recipients must wait a minimum of three (3) years before submitting a new request.

The WAEF Scholarships, funded by the Washington Apple Education Foundation, support over 300 students with more than $1 million in educational awards this year. These scholarships are aimed at high school graduates and current college students pursuing biology or chemistry majors, especially those with ties to Washington's tree fruit industry. Eligible applicants include those with parent employment in the industry, ensuring a strong connection to this vital sector.

The Helen S. Boylan Foundation, established in 1982, aims to enhance community life in Carthage, Missouri, the Greater Kansas City Area, and Lindale, Texas. It provides quarterly grants to non-profit organizations focused on arts, education, health, and wellness. The foundation prioritizes innovative projects and multi-year funding for initiatives benefiting local citizens. Eligible recipients include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while grants for individuals or sectarian activities are excluded. Proposals should focus on new initiatives or capital improvements.

The Metro Arts Youth Apprenticeship Program, initiated by Quad City Arts, provides emerging artists aged 15-21 the opportunity to create public artwork while receiving mentorship and financial support. Since 2000, this program has enriched the Quad Cities' cultural landscape through various artistic disciplines, including mural painting and graphic design. Participants engage in collaborative projects, developing their skills under professional guidance, and receive stipends of $500 or $750 for senior apprentices, fostering personal and professional growth.

The Cole Foundation Grants, part of the Foundation For The Carolinas, support local nonprofits in Richmond County, NC. With over $31 million awarded since 2015, the foundation focuses on enhancing community welfare through various projects. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and churches. However, they do not fund capital campaigns, individual support, or projects that duplicate existing services. For more details, visit www.fftc.org/regional_affiliates.

Dot Foods’ Charitable Grant Program supports 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and government entities with grants of $500 or more. The program emphasizes community development, diversity and inclusion, education, health and wellness, and public safety. Organizations must be located near Dot Foods facilities and align their requests with these focus areas. This initiative reflects Dot Foods’ commitment to making a positive impact in the communities it serves through active employee engagement and local charitable efforts.

The NBRC Catalyst Program aims to stimulate economic growth in northern Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York by funding innovative projects that address regional economic needs. It supports initiatives like modernizing public services, enhancing transportation infrastructure, and developing workforce programs. By fostering partnerships and leveraging private investments, the program seeks to alleviate economic distress and improve rural vitality, ultimately leading to job creation and sustainable community development.

The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) is accepting applications for the FY 2025-26 Intermediate Punishment Treatment Program. This initiative aims to support restrictive probation conditions to divert individuals from incarceration and provide essential treatment for those with substance use or mental health issues. By doing so, it seeks to reduce recidivism and enhance public safety, fulfilling PCCD's mission to improve the criminal justice system and community safety.

The RI CDBG-Housing Rehab program, managed by the Rhode Island Executive Office of Housing, aims to foster viable communities through funding for housing rehabilitation and economic development. Annually, approximately $4-$5 million is allocated to eligible municipalities, primarily benefiting low- and moderate-income individuals. This program emphasizes neighborhood revitalization and supports various activities to enhance living environments, ensuring safe and affordable housing for all Rhode Islanders.

RoseLoe-Dix Endowed Scholarship Fund

Attending four-year university, two-year college or trade school in the upcoming semester, majoring in Business, Sciences, Computers, Christian Religion, Literature, Pre-med, Medical Field, or Engineering.

Awards

• (2) $12,000.00

About Us

The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is an agency of state government, and its funding comes from the Indiana General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).

A core component to the Indiana Arts Commission’s commitment to investing in the state’s vibrant and rich arts and culture sector are grants, which support people and communities through arts organizations and arts projects.

Every County Funded

About

The Every County Funded community-based arts program is designed to increase access to arts funding for all Hoosiers by providing invitation-only grant funding that directly serves counties where there is little to no state arts funding.

Every County Funded is designed to:

• Identify allies, partners and stakeholders in counties interested in bringing the arts to life in their community
• Provide communities with funding and technical support for creative initiatives
• Provide a simple process from which all can easily succeed and grow
• Connect communities through an informal cohort model

FY2026 Grant Program

The Indiana Arts Commission is accepting grant applications from Blackford, Lawrence, Parke, Newton, Rush, Washington, and White counties.

These projects should be based locally and include an opportunity that is open to the public. Previous projects that have been supported include activities such as:

• Example: Ongoing arts/performing arts classes or workshops that are open to the public for any age. Workshops employ local artists to support community and economic development.
• Example: A local 4-H club may wish to bring in a ceramic artist to provide a series of weekly classes for youth, resulting in a community exhibition that is open to the public and entries into the county fair.

• Example: Creating a mural that documents the history of your town and inviting local students to be involved in the painting process under the guidance of the mural artist.
• Example: Hosting a concert series that is free and open to the public, featuring a variety of musical acts. This series is in combination with existing events, such as festivals or annual town celebrations.

• Example: Providing arts-based classes at your library to support mental health and wellbeing of teenagers.
• Example: Increasing access to arts programs for people with disabilities by purchasing adaptive art supplies (e.g. paint brush grips, wheelchair accessible chalk tools, magnifying glasses) and hosting an inclusive event.

These project examples are not exhaustive or the only type of project allowed in Every County Funded. Applicants are encouraged to think creatively about how to provide arts experiences in their communities.

The Fund for Sandwich Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for Sandwich, MA residents through grants for initiatives addressing community challenges. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities and those with a fiscal sponsor. The fund prioritizes innovative proposals that support at-risk populations and tackle local issues across various sectors, including health, education, and the arts, with grant requests up to $5000 being considered.

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

The Arts in Parks program, initiated by Seattle’s Office of Arts & Culture and Seattle Parks and Recreation, fosters arts and culture events in city parks, particularly in underserved neighborhoods. This grant supports grassroots organizations and individual artists in creating inclusive cultural activities that celebrate Seattle’s diversity. The program aims to empower communities by providing a platform for artistic expression, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued, regardless of their background.

The ASHRAE Region III Setty Family Foundation Scholarship supports undergraduate students pursuing engineering degrees in HVAC&R fields. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or be in the top 30% of their class. Eligible institutions include those hosting an ASHRAE student branch or accredited engineering programs. This scholarship promotes academic excellence and sustainable practices in the built environment, aligning with ASHRAE's mission to advance technology and human well-being.

The ASHRAE Region I Setty Family Foundation Scholarship offers a one-year award for undergraduate mechanical or architectural engineering students attending institutions in ASHRAE Region I or those who graduated from high schools in the area. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and meet specific program criteria, promoting excellence in HVAC&R education. This scholarship supports future leaders in the field, ensuring a sustainable built environment.

The Helen Pumphrey Denit Charitable Trust Grant aims to support organizations that enhance education, culture, health, and human services, primarily within the Baltimore region. Established in 1988, it prioritizes grants for capital and program support, while general operating support is considered but less favored. Organizations must skip one grant cycle before reapplying. Certain requests, like those for debt reduction or individual support, are not eligible. Special preference is given to specific local institutions.

The Tuscola County Community Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Tuscola County by funding innovative projects that leverage local resources and foster collaboration among organizations. Established in 1997, the foundation supports a variety of charitable initiatives, prioritizing those that yield significant community benefits. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations and other tax-exempt entities, with a focus on projects that can sustain impact beyond the grant period.

The Project Connect: Civic Life & Belonging Grants aim to foster community engagement and connection in Lewis, Mason, and Thurston counties. This pilot program supports initiatives that encourage diverse interactions and strengthen civic life, ultimately creating a healthier community. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and tribal agencies, with projects focusing on public spaces, collaborative art, and community storytelling. The grants prioritize inclusivity and aim to bridge gaps between different community members.

The Central New York Chapter King-Traugott Scholarship, offered by the American Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers, supports undergraduate students in mechanical or architectural engineering. Candidates must maintain a GPA of at least 3.0 and meet specific criteria, including enrollment in accredited programs or recognized ASHRAE student branches. This scholarship aims to cultivate future leaders in the HVAC&R industry while promoting sustainable practices within engineering education.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program

The State of Utah Community Development Block Grant program provides grants to cities of fewer than 50,000 people and counties of fewer than 200,000.

The CDBG program is authorized under Title 1 of the Housing & Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (HCDA). The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is responsible for monitoring the state of Utah to ensure compliance with CDBG program requirements. Applicants should be aware that, if funded, they must comply with various federal regulations including Davis-Bacon Labor standards and the environmental regulations found at 24 CFR Part 58.

The purpose of the small cities program is "to assist in developing viable communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment and expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate incomes."

The David C. J. Peters Scholarship, established by Southland Industries in honor of ASHRAE member David Peters, offers a one-year scholarship to qualified undergraduate students in mechanical or architectural engineering. Candidates must be enrolled full-time in a bachelor's program at designated institutions and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 or be in the top 30% of their class. This initiative supports the mission of ASHRAE to promote sustainable practices in engineering.