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

32,565 Results based on applied filters

Community Grant Program

Appalachian Regional Healthcare
Private
Bell County, Kentucky, Breathitt County, Kentucky +15 more
Up to US $5,000
The Community Grant Program, supported by the ARH Foundation, aims to enhance healthcare, education, and community involvement in Eastern Kentucky and Southern West Virginia. This program invites non-profit organizations to apply for funding to implement projects that improve the quality of life, particularly for women and children. Eligible projects should address health education, improve health outcomes, and promote collaboration among organizations, thereby fostering a healthier community.
Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Community Health Education Human & Social Services +2 more

South Carolina Community Development Block Grant (CDBG): Business Development Grants

South Carolina Department of Commerce
State/Local Government
Abbeville County, South Carolina, Aiken County, South Carolina +37 more
Unspecified amount

South Carolina Department of Commerce

From site selection to infrastructure improvement, we are here to help grow new and existing businesses.

SC Commerce promotes economic opportunity for individuals and businesses through initiatives like workforce training. As a national leader in foreign direct investment, the state extends its global reach with offices in Europe and Asia that help existing companies in developing export markets.

South Carolina Community Development Block Grant

The South Carolina Community Development Block Grant (“State CDBG Program”) is designed to aid units of general local government in improving economic opportunities and meeting community revitalization needs, particularly for persons of low- and moderate-income. The State CDBG Program has been funded through the State since 1982 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (Title I). 

CDBG Program Goals and Outcomes

The SC Department of Commerce seeks to improve the well-being of all South Carolinians in a manner that supports and enhances a high quality of life. The State CDBG Program supports the agency’s efforts to strengthen communities through revitalization and improvement of neighborhoods, public infrastructure, and the local economy. 

The three overarching goals of the HUD CDBG program are to provide decent housing, economic opportunities and a suitable living environment. Within the context of these goals, each project funded by the State must also meet one of three outcomes identified by HUD: affordability, accessibility, or sustainability. 

Local Match/Leveraging

CDBG projects are expected to leverage other public and private investments and serve as a catalyst for future development.

There must be a 10% match of the total CDBG request, unless otherwise approved, which can come from a variety of committed sources including other grants, loans, waiver of fees, public or private investments, and documented volunteer or in-kind contributions. Matching funds must be immediately available for the project at the time of application. 

Community Development Block Grant Categories

There are three broad grant program categories: Community Development, Business Development, and Regional Planning. The Community Development Program is further broken down into several subcategories to address infrastructure, community facilities, and local priorities.

Business Development Programs

This program provides financial resources for local governments to pursue opportunities that create new jobs, retain existing employment, stimulate private investment, and revitalize or facilitate the competitiveness of the local economy. Funding will be prioritized based on the following order:

  • New or expanding businesses tied to job creation
  • Area economic development activities not associated with job creation
  • New or expanding local businesses that provide essential goods and services in predominately LMI communities 
  • Job Creation Business Development Economic Services & Development +1 more

    Emeril's Culinary Garden & Teaching Kitchen Grants

    Emeril Lagasse Foundation
    Private
    United States
    Unspecified amount
    Emeril's Culinary Garden & Teaching Kitchen Grants support K-8 schools in enhancing culinary and gardening education. Schools must be 501c3 nonprofits with established programs, demonstrating the ability to impact students positively. The initiative focuses on fostering appreciation for food sources, developing life skills, and promoting healthy eating. Schools are encouraged to mentor others and must provide dedicated gardening and culinary instruction to all students. This program aims to empower children with essential skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
    Horticulture & Gardening Culinary Arts Nutrition & Healthy Eating +2 more

    Perkins Innovative Grants: CTE New Program

    Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education
    State/Local Government
    Oklahoma
    Up to US $25,000

    About Oklahoma CareerTech

    For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

    Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 62 campuses, 394 PK-12 school districts, 20 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 49 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

    Perkins Innovative Grants

    Things to know:

    • All grants will be on a two-year award cycle (except CTE New Program Grant) to match the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment timeline. To be eligible for awards, recipients will be required to complete and submit their Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.
    • Grant recipients will have to show progress towards goal completion by the end of the first year of funding to receive 2nd year funding. These Benchmarks will be developed in collaboration with the Program area innovative grant leads and the recipients.
    • Districts can apply for multiple grants. 

    There are 8 Innovative Grants that all eligible recipients can apply for: 1) Career Development and Programs of Study; 2) Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships; 3) Supporting CTE Special Populations; 4) High Growth and Emerging Technologies; 5) Innovation in Career Exploration; 6) Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other; 7) CTE New Program; 8) Improving Academic Proficiency

    CTE New Program

    Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (ODCTE) supports the implementation of quality CTE programs. The purpose of this grant is to provide startup funding for new CTE programs. This would include any program approved within the past three years. Applicants can only receive one grant within the three-year period. This grant will help overcome the cost barrier of implementing CTE programs by providing schools with funding to purchase necessary equipment and resources to increase enrollments and opportunities for students statewide.

    Education Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Vocational & Trade Education

    Heritage Home Group Charitable Trust

    Heritage Home Group Charitable Trust
    Private
    Burke County, North Carolina, Caldwell County, North Carolina +4 more
    Unspecified amount
    The Heritage Home Group Charitable Trust, established in 1960, focuses on enhancing community resilience in North Carolina through strategic funding in areas such as financial mobility, housing access, and small business growth. With a commitment to arts, education, health, and human services, the Trust supports organizations that are tax-exempt and demonstrate fiscal stability. Funding is not available for individuals or political activities, ensuring resources are allocated to meaningful community needs.
    Art & Culture Education Animal Welfare - General +6 more

    Technical Assistance & Professional Development Grants

    The Roundhouse Foundation
    Private
    Baker County, Oregon, Clatsop County, Oregon +21 more
    Up to US $5,000
    The Roundhouse Foundation's Technical Assistance & Professional Development Grants aim to enhance the capacity and skills of nonprofit partners in rural Oregon. Open for applications from late February 2025 to November 30, 2025, this program supports initiatives such as staff training and strategic planning. With a maximum funding of $5,000 per organization, the foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate community support and innovation. Interested nonprofits must be IRS-designated 501(c)3 entities or government bodies.
    Art & Culture Journalism Business Development +1 more

    Research Initiation Grant

    West Virginia Space Grant Consortium
    State/Local Government
    West Virginia
    Up to US $25,000
    The Research Initiation Grant, offered by the West Virginia Space Grant Consortium, supports new and established faculty pursuing NASA-related research. This initiative aims to foster collaborations between faculty and NASA researchers, enhancing research infrastructure at West Virginia institutions. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens and align their proposals with NASA mission directorates. This funding opportunity particularly encourages those in STEM fields to apply, promoting innovation and educational outreach in science and technology.
    STEM / STEAM Education Planetary Science Aerospace Engineering +2 more

    Miriam Rosenthal Foundation for the Arts Grant

    Miriam Rosenthal Foundation for the Arts
    Private
    Montgomery County, Ohio
    Unspecified amount

    About

    Since our founding in 1921, The Dayton Foundation and its fund holders have awarded $1.5 billion in grants to nonprofits to support education, arts and culture, animal welfare, housing and more. While the majority of grants are advised by our fund holders, our competitive grants are made possible thanks to donors who have placed little to no restrictions on their funds, allowing the Foundation’s volunteer Grants Committee and Governing Board to determine where need is greatest.

    Miriam Rosenthal Foundation for the Arts Grant

    Initially established as a trust fund in 1965 by Dayton leaders and supported by the community, the foundation carries forward the legacy of Miriam Rosenthal, a longtime volunteer, advocate and leader. It awards grants to professional nonprofit organizations that enrich the cultural life of residents in the Greater Dayton area.

    The grant program of the Miriam Rosenthal Foundation for the Arts stimulates exciting and enriching cultural activities that elevate the quality and scope of programming available in the community, takes advantage of special opportunities which otherwise might be missed and provides avenues for cooperation among arts and cultural organizations. Since the financial capability of the Foundation to assist in financing cultural activities is directly related to the size of its endowed funds and their earnings, all grant recipients will be required to publicize the general purposes of the Foundation and its desire to increase its assets through gifts of principal from area residents. Public recognition must also memorialize Miriam Rosenthal and her many contributions to the cultural life of the Dayton area.

    Economic Services & Development Community Development & Revitalization Community Culture & Heritage +2 more

    ArtsZone Grants

    ArtsMemphis
    Private
    Crittenden County, Arkansas, DeSoto County, Mississippi +6 more
    Unspecified amount
    The ArtsZone Grants, administered by ARTSmemphis in partnership with AutoZone, support local arts organizations in Memphis. These grants focus on health and wellness, education, community development, diversity, and arts access. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) entities with a minimum three-year history of quality arts projects. Funding amounts typically range from $5,000 to $30,000, aimed at enhancing community engagement through creative initiatives.
    Art & Culture Education Wellness & Healthy Living +3 more

    DSF Charitable Foundation: Human Services Grant

    DSF Charitable Foundation
    Private
    Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Armstrong County, Pennsylvania +8 more
    Unspecified amount
    The DSF Charitable Foundation offers grants focused on health, human services, and education, primarily in Southwestern Pennsylvania. The Foundation reviews applications three times a year and accepts inquiries anytime. Notably, organizations must wait two years after a grant period or declined request before reapplying. Eligible projects must benefit the Pittsburgh area, while requests for individual support or endowments are not considered.
    Senior Services Disability Care & Services Children’s Health & Pediatrics +2 more

    Credit Union West Sponsorship and Support

    Credit Union West
    Corporate
    Apache County, Arizona, Cochise County, Arizona +9 more
    Unspecified amount
    Credit Union West supports local communities through its sponsorship and support program. The CU West CARES Charitable Foundation provides grants, contributions, and volunteers to enhance the quality of life for individuals in Arizona. They focus on four key areas: community heroes, education for all ages, human health and wellness, and assistance for distressed and underserved communities. Organizations operating within specific Arizona counties are eligible for funding, while personal events and political initiatives are not.
    Education Military & Veterans Services Military Operations +2 more

    DDCAZ Community Outreach Donations

    Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment
    Corporate
    Maricopa County, Arizona, Pima County, Arizona
    Unspecified amount
    Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment provides community outreach donations to enhance the quality of life for the Tohono O’odham Nation and Southern Arizona residents. They support 501-C non-profit organizations and local Tohono O’odham organizations, focusing on areas such as healthcare, education, arts and culture, and community services. Applications must be submitted by the 10th of each month for consideration. With over 25 years of community commitment, they continue to foster partnerships and create positive impacts.
    Youth Services Art & Culture Health Care Access & Delivery +5 more

    FCP: Nonprofit Growth Grants - Organizational & Professional Development

    Foundations Community Partnership
    Private
    Bucks County, Pennsylvania
    Up to US $10,000
    The FCP Nonprofit Growth Grants support the professional development of nonprofits in Bucks County, offering grants up to $10,000. These funds assist organizations in areas such as board training, financial planning, and strategic planning. Additionally, tuition assistance for master's and certificate programs in nonprofit leadership is available. Grants aim to enhance the capacity of nonprofits serving the behavioral health and human service needs of children and families, fostering effective community partnerships.
    Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Youth Services Family Services +3 more

    FCP: Nonprofit Growth Grants - MS in Nonprofit Leadership

    Foundations Community Partnership
    Private
    Bucks County, Pennsylvania
    Up to US $10,000
    The FCP Nonprofit Growth Grants support organizational development for nonprofits in Bucks County, offering up to $10,000. Eligible organizations must address behavioral health and human service needs for children and families. Grants are available throughout the year, and applicants may also apply for tuition assistance for the MS in Nonprofit Leadership. This initiative fosters partnerships to enhance nonprofit capabilities and promote community well-being.
    Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Youth Services Family Services +3 more

    Ida B. Wells Graduate Student Fellowship

    Coordinating Council for Women in History
    Private
    United States
    US $1,000
    The Ida B. Wells Graduate Student Fellowship, offered by the Coordinating Council for Women in History, provides a $1000 award to graduate students working on dissertations that explore themes of race and gender. This fellowship supports crucial stages of research or writing for students across various disciplines, not limited to history departments. It aims to foster inclusive scholarship and advance the representation of women in historical studies, encouraging emerging scholars to engage with these vital topics.
    History Gender Studies Women's Rights & Equality +1 more

    Zera Foundation Grant

    Zera Foundation Inc
    Private
    United States
    Unspecified amount
    The Zera Foundation Grant, established in 2011, supports nonprofit organizations in Oregon aimed at enhancing quality of life. With a focus on poverty, youth, animals, and Jewish-based initiatives, the Foundation seeks to fund new programs that help existing organizations achieve their mission. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities and can only receive one grant per year, ensuring a concentrated impact in their communities.
    Youth Services Poverty Alleviation & Services Animal Welfare - General +2 more

    IDEA-D Deafblind RFA

    Texas Education Agency
    State/Local Government
    Texas
    US $628,566

    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.

    The Division of Governance Interventions supports TEA’s mission and vision by providing exceptional leadership, guidance, and support to school system leadership teams and governing boards. The division collaborates with external field support agents appointed by the TEA Commissioner of Education to build sustainable systems aligned to core TEA initiatives, so that the school system thrives after the release of agency intervention. 

    IDEA-D funds- Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

    The purpose of IDEA-D funds is to provide technical assistance and dissemination to improve services and results for children who are deafblind. The purpose of this program is to promote academic achievement and improve results for children with disabilities by providing technical assistance and model demonstration projects, disseminating useful information, and implementing activities that are supported by scientifically based research. IDEA includes provisions designed to ensure that each child with a disability is provided a high-quality individual program of services to meet his or her developmental and educational needs. For children who are deafblind to receive such services, intensive technical assistance is made available to the school system, parents, and professionals (IDEA-D, Section 663; CFDA 84.326T).

    TEA is awarded funds through a five-year competitive grant program titled Technical Assistance to State Deafblind Projects, administered by the USDE, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP). This project is administered by TEA through the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TSBVI).

    Education Academic Success & Enrichment Vision Impairment Care & Services +1 more

    Texas Academic Innovation and Mentoring (AIM) Grant

    Texas Education Agency
    State/Local Government
    Texas
    Up to US $2,137,500

    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.

    The Division of Governance Interventions supports TEA’s mission and vision by providing exceptional leadership, guidance, and support to school system leadership teams and governing boards. The division collaborates with external field support agents appointed by the TEA Commissioner of Education to build sustainable systems aligned to core TEA initiatives, so that the school system thrives after the release of agency intervention. 

    Texas Academic Innovation and Mentoring (AIM) Grant

    Program Description

    The Academic Innovation and Mentoring (AIM) grant is designed to close the gaps in the student achievement among English language learners and minority and low-income students who are at risk of dropping out. The Texas AIM program is a partnership between Texas Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs (BGC) and a supplemental academic learning center that is owned and operated in the United States to provide an after-school and summer AIM program statewide. Program goals include decreasing the dropout rate and discipline issues and improving academic achievement and attendance among participating at-risk students.

    After School / Summer Educational Programs Student Retention & Drop-Out Prevention Education +1 more

    Arizona Route 66 Grant

    Arizona Community Foundation
    Private
    Arizona
    US $1,000 - US $50,000
    The Arizona Route 66 Grant aims to mobilize philanthropy for preserving and promoting Route 66 in Arizona. The Arizona Community Foundation, in partnership with the Historic Route 66 Association, invites applications from eligible organizations for grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000. Projects may include restoration, educational outreach, and planning activities that enhance the historical significance of Route 66 while fostering community partnerships and supporting local economies.
    Community Development & Revitalization Historic Preservation Public Infrastructure +2 more

    Fu Hua Chen Memorial Scholarship

    ACEC Colorado Scholarship & Education Foundation
    Association/Society
    Colorado
    Unspecified amount
    The Fu Hua Chen Memorial Scholarship, offered by the ACEC Colorado Scholarship & Education Foundation, supports full-time undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in civil or geotechnical engineering at ABET-accredited institutions in Colorado. Established to honor Fu Hua Chen's achievements, this scholarship provides financial assistance directly to students for their educational expenses. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens, demonstrate an understanding of consulting engineering, and meet specific academic qualifications. The amount awarded varies.
    Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs STEM / STEAM Education +2 more

    Black United Fund- Community Impact Grants

    Black United Fund of Oregon
    Private
    Clark County, Washington, Cowlitz County, Washington +5 more
    US $2,500 - US $5,000
    The Black United Fund of Oregon (BUF-OR) provides Community Impact Grants to support the social and economic development of underserved communities in Oregon. Annually, BUF-OR awards grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to nonprofit organizations that align with its mission and focus on BIPOC communities. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and operate within Oregon or SW Washington. This initiative aims to empower grassroots organizations and enhance community well-being.
    Social Justice / Human Rights Minority Services Economic Services & Development +2 more

    Natural Gas Society of East Texas Scholarship

    East Texas Communities Foundation
    Private
    Texas
    US $1,000
    The Natural Gas Society of East Texas Scholarship, administered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports undergraduate and graduate students majoring in energy-related fields such as engineering or geosciences. Applicants must be Texas college students, sophomores or higher, with a minimum GPA of 2.75. Financial need is considered, and preference is given to those who attended high school in East Texas. This scholarship is a valuable opportunity for aspiring professionals in the energy industry.
    Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs College Success / Persistence +3 more

    Board Empowerment Grant Program

    Community Foundation for Monterey County
    Private
    Monterey County, California
    US $5,000
    The Board Empowerment Grant Program, piloted by the Community Foundation for Monterey County in partnership with The David and Lucile Packard Foundation, aims to enhance nonprofit board leadership in Monterey County. This program offers a $5,000 unrestricted grant along with nine months of focused consulting and coaching. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations committed to systemic change, with a requirement for board participation. The initiative seeks to empower boards to drive impactful changes in their organizations.
    Art & Culture Community Culture & Heritage Education +5 more

    Departmental Enhancement

    State of Louisiana Board of Regents
    State/Local Government
    Louisiana
    Up to US $1,000,000
    The Louisiana Board of Regents offers the Departmental Enhancement program to improve educational and research capacities in academic and agricultural departments. This competitive initiative supports both comprehensive and targeted projects, encouraging diverse activities from equipment purchases to curricular redesign. Open to all eligible departments, this program aims to bolster workforce activities and enhance the overall infrastructure within Louisiana's higher education system, fostering innovation and collaboration across disciplines.
    Engineering Humanities & Social Science Environmental Education +5 more

    Louise Wachter Wickham Scholarship

    Grand Haven Area Community Foundation
    Private
    United States
    Unspecified amount
    The Louise Wachter Wickham Scholarship, established in 1997 by Donna Wickham Furth, supports high school seniors pursuing a degree in elementary education. This scholarship is awarded based on financial need and academic performance. Recipients must demonstrate commitment to education and may need to submit additional documents such as transcripts and recommendation letters. The fund honors Louise Wachter Wickham, a dedicated teacher who believed in the transformative power of education.
    Education - Higher Education College Success / Persistence Educational Access & Equity +1 more

    Adirondack Construction Scholarship

    The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties
    Private
    United States
    Unspecified amount

    About The Community Foundation

    The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is a community-based social impact investor whose mission is to engage, invest, and lead—working toward a vision of community vibrancy with opportunity for all. Our team of experienced staff and dedicated trustees is committed to boldly leading and supporting transformational community investments. We channel charitable contributions from donors through nonprofit partners that are meeting current community needs and steward community resources responsibly to ensure greater capacity for the future.

    No organization has all the answers, but together, with our partners and donors, we have the means and the will to chart a new course—one that will build upon generations of philanthropy and strengthen the fabric of Herkimer and Oneida counties.

    Adirondack Construction Scholarship

    A scholarship established by Adirondack Construction in Vernon to support the future career goals of students pursuing business or construction management.

    Education - Higher Education Education - High School Civil Engineering +1 more

    Konbit Pou Chanjman Grant Program

    Digicel Foundation
    Corporate
    Haiti
    Up to US $12,000

    Stronger Communities

    The Digicel Foundation collaborates with local organizations and communities to support and finance sustainable development initiatives.

    In Haiti, there is an adage which goes “men anpil chay pa lou" – it means that where there are many hands, the burden is little. With this meaningful proverb in mind, Digicel Foundation recognizes how vital it is to work in concert with local communities to accompany community members towards a better life.

    Upon opening its doors in 2007, the Foundation embarked on a mission to assist in the development of these communities. Not long after, both Digicel and the Digicel Foundation began serving thousands of families who lost everything in the floods of Gonaives. From there, the Digicel Foundation began making substantial impressions across Haiti.

    Over the last 19 years, more than one million people have been touched by the Foundation’s social investments in diverse projects impacting various sectors including: education and capacity building, special needs, human rights, the environment, water accessibility, sanitation, agriculture, and technology. Because of our partners’ remarkable efforts, adults have learned how to read, Special Olympic athletes earned many medals center stage at the World Games, hundreds of lives were spared from cholera, and thousands of youth gained access to development programs.

    The Digicel Foundation Grants Program has already invested in more than 400 projects. With its longstanding partners, and new partners it meets along the way, the Foundation hopes to deliver many more life-changing projects, while bringing countless hands together to lessen life’s burden for the most vulnerable populations.

    On April 1, 2026, the Digicel Foundation proudly launched the 10th edition of its Konbit Pou Chanjman campaign.

    This milestone edition carries special significance, as it will award ten local organizations with grants of USD 12,000 each, while also funding a flagship project valued at 10,000,000 gourdes to support the implementation of a community initiative in one of the country’s ten departments.

    Organizations interested in bringing impactful projects to life are invited to apply for funding in the following areas: education, culture, inclusion, access, livelihoods, and the environment.

    The project submission deadline was May 15, 2026, and the evaluation process has now been completed.

    Education Art & Culture Economic Services & Development +4 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.