Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Canada Program Fellowships for Dissertation Research, funded by the William Lyon Mackenzie King endowment, supports Harvard graduate students focusing on Canadian studies. Grants of up to $5,000 can be used for various research-related expenses. The program promotes the exchange of ideas through seminars featuring scholars and public figures, enhancing understanding of Canadian issues. Eligible candidates include doctoral students from the Faculty of Arts and Sciences and professional schools who dedicate significant research to Canada.

The Canada Program Fellowships for Dissertation Research support Harvard graduate students focusing on Canadian topics. Funded by the William Lyon Mackenzie King endowment, the program offers stipends of $10,000 for research or completion stages. It includes a seminar series and opportunities for students to engage with prominent figures in Canadian studies. This initiative encourages a deeper understanding of Canadian socio-political issues within the academic community, fostering valuable scholarly interactions.

About MSHDA

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), established in 1966, provides financial and technical assistance through public and private partnerships to create and preserve safe and decent affordable housing, engage in community economic development activities, develop vibrant cities, towns and villages, and address homeless issues.

MSHDA's loans and operating expenses are financed through the sale of tax-exempt and taxable bonds and notes to private investors, not from state tax revenues. Proceeds of the bonds and notes are loaned at below-market interest rates to developers of rental housing, and also fund home mortgages and home improvement loans. MSHDA also administers various federal housing programs.

Neighborhood Development Division

Purpose Statement

The Neighborhood Development Division (NDD) provides affordable housing solutions and opportunities to Michigan residents, neighborhoods and partners. Neighborhoods are a defined, community-based residential area where people live and share amenities and resources.

Our current programs include MI Neighborhood, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), and MSHDA MOD. Our legacy programs include Neighborhood Enhancement Program (NEP), Small Scale Housing Rental Program (SHRP), Michigan Housing Opportunities Promoting Energy-Efficiency (MI-HOPE), and MSHDA Investing in Community Housing (MICH). These programs have been discontinued and have been rolled in the MI Neighborhood Program.

What is the MI Neighborhood Program?

MI Neighborhood (MIN) uses money from state (HCDF) and federal (CDBG) funds to support local housing needs. These grants help repair existing homes and build new affordable housing. Each community can use the money in ways that best meet its needs, either to improve a neighborhood or support larger regional goals.

The goal of the occupied rehabilitation funds is to keep current homes safe and in good condition. This home repair program can include small and large home repairs and updates for energy efficiency and accessibility.

The goal of the new unit funds is to help communities create more homes. This affordable housing program can include building new single‑family homes, small rental housing projects, and fixing empty homes.

About MSHDA

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), established in 1966, provides financial and technical assistance through public and private partnerships to create and preserve safe and decent affordable housing, engage in community economic development activities, develop vibrant cities, towns and villages, and address homeless issues.

MSHDA's loans and operating expenses are financed through the sale of tax-exempt and taxable bonds and notes to private investors, not from state tax revenues. Proceeds of the bonds and notes are loaned at below-market interest rates to developers of rental housing, and also fund home mortgages and home improvement loans. MSHDA also administers various federal housing programs.

Neighborhood Development Division

Purpose Statement

The Neighborhood Development Division (NDD) provides affordable housing solutions and opportunities to Michigan residents, neighborhoods and partners. Neighborhoods are a defined, community-based residential area where people live and share amenities and resources.

Our current programs include MI Neighborhood, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), and MSHDA MOD. Our legacy programs include Neighborhood Enhancement Program (NEP), Small Scale Housing Rental Program (SHRP), Michigan Housing Opportunities Promoting Energy-Efficiency (MI-HOPE), and MSHDA Investing in Community Housing (MICH). These programs have been discontinued and have been rolled in the MI Neighborhood Program.

What is the MI Neighborhood Program?

MI Neighborhood (MIN) uses money from state (HCDF) and federal (CDBG) funds to support local housing needs. These grants help repair existing homes and build new affordable housing. Each community can use the money in ways that best meet its needs, either to improve a neighborhood or support larger regional goals.

The goal of the occupied rehabilitation funds is to keep current homes safe and in good condition. This home repair program can include small and large home repairs and updates for energy efficiency and accessibility.

The goal of the new unit funds is to help communities create more homes. This affordable housing program can include building new single‑family homes, small rental housing projects, and fixing empty homes.

The M. & A. Seasongood Good Government Grants support 501(c)(3) organizations and professional associations in the Greater Cincinnati area. Focused on promoting good governance, the foundation prioritizes engagement in democracy, public service professionalism, and combating political polarization. These grants aim to enhance accountability, transparency, and civic reform, providing essential funding to initiatives that foster equitable access to voting and encourage civic participation.

The Fall Grant Opportunities from the Elk Rapids Area Education Endowment aim to meet community needs across Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau counties. These grants support diverse programs focusing on education, environment, youth, seniors, health, and human services. Established in 1994, the Endowment enriches educational opportunities for Elk Rapids residents, fostering growth within public schools and the wider community.

Iowa Economic Development Authority

Mission

Strengthen economic and community vitality by building partnerships and leveraging resources to make Iowa the choice for people and business. Through two main divisions – business development and community development – IEDA administers several state and federal programs to meet its goals of assisting individuals, communities and businesses. IEDA works to achieve its mission and goals to benefit Iowans while maintaining a high level of transparency. 

Open 4 Business

Description

Main Street Iowa and Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) are proud to announce the availability of Main Street Iowa Open 4 Business grants.

A state appropriation was made to the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) for the Main Street Iowa Program to assist participating cities improve the physical and economic health of their designated Main Street districts. This state appropriation will allow Main Street Iowa to offer Open 4 Business Grants to participating communities for business expansion projects.

 A map showing eligible Main Street districts is available on our web site at https://www.iowaeda.com

Each program may receive a single award from this funding round. Only one application per program is allowed. The local Main Street Iowa program MUST be the applicant on behalf of the local business owner(s) as the grant beneficiary.

Main Street Iowa staff will review all applications for eligibility, project impact within the designated Main Street district, business innovation, and opportunity for continued growth, enhanced revenue, and sustainability. 

All awarded projects must agree to provide Main Street Iowa with appropriate budgetary information and expenditures. 

The PRIMARY goals of the MSI Open 4 Business grant are:

• Stimulate and support business expansion projects in Main Street districts
• Create a positive climate for additional district investment
• Support local revitalization efforts
• Demonstrate “Main Street at work” in the local community
• Provide local Main Street programs with an exclusive financial incentive program
• Create additional jobs and business growth

These goals will be achieved through:

• Quality business expansion projects with enhanced revenue opportunities
• Creating unique business locations and product offerings
• Strategic investment by IEDA into key local projects
• Research and utilization of appropriate available financial resources/programs
• Creating local job and business opportunities

Awards will be made to the applicant Main Street organization, hereafter referred to as the Grantee, for disbursements to locally designated grant beneficiaries. A 25% owner investment is required for all awarded grant funds.

Business Pitch/Video

Each business will be required to submit a video (3-minute maximum) in addition to an online application and project budget describing how the business would use the Open 4 Business grant funds if awarded. Be creative and have fun! The video should be concise, informative, and tell the story of how the Open 4 Business grant funds would assist the business and community with continued business growth and development. Judges will not view videos beyond the first three minutes. Videos are not required to be professionally produced and will be judged on content rather than level of production. 

The Dubuque Racing Association Core Grants aim to enhance community betterment through non-profit initiatives focused on population growth and tourism. These grants prioritize capacity building alongside material purchases, supporting organizations that align with the mission to foster economic vitality in the tri-state area. Eligible applicants include non-profits with specific IRS designations, emphasizing projects that strengthen local resources and improve quality of life while adhering to strict funding guidelines.

The Urban Indian Health Program - Education & Research collaborates with the US Dept. of Health & Human Services to enhance educational and research opportunities for urban Indian populations. This initiative aims to address health disparities and ensure that urban Indians have access to quality health services and information. By partnering with various urban Indian organizations, the program fosters community engagement and empowers individuals through education and research, ultimately improving health outcomes.

The Charles W. Kuhne Foundation Grant aims to enhance the well-being of the residents of Fort Wayne and Allen County, Indiana. Established in memory of Charles W. Kuhne, who was a lawyer and philanthropist, the foundation supports various program areas including education, health, and human services. Eligible organizations must be recognized as 501(c)(3) entities, with a preference for initiatives that address public welfare and promote charitable causes.

The Guam Economic Development Authority (GEDA) has established a Qualifying Certificate Community Contribution (QCCC) Grant Program and is encouraging eligible applicants to support our local community by providing annual grant funding to be used to support eligible projects that will benefit our island community.

The Don and Carol Pardue Scholarship, offered by the North Carolina Community Foundation, supports students in need of financial assistance, particularly those pursuing degrees in Education or affiliated with the First United Methodist Church in North Wilkesboro, NC. This scholarship exemplifies the Foundation's commitment to promoting educational opportunities and strengthening communities across North Carolina, ensuring that deserving students receive the support necessary to achieve their academic goals.

The Staples-Motley Area Community Foundation Grant, managed by the Initiative Foundation, aims to enhance the Staples/Motley area through funding proposals focused on strengthening youth and families, improving community appearance, and fostering community involvement. Grants up to $2,000 can be awarded, covering 50% of total project costs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, school districts, and local governments. The foundation does not fund projects with capital expenses or ongoing operating support, ensuring resources are directed towards impactful community initiatives.

The Lawrence Ziring Endowed Scholarship, awarded by the WMU Department of Political Science, supports graduate students who excel academically. Established in memory of Lawrence Ziring, a distinguished faculty member, this annual scholarship amounts to approximately $1,000. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in the political science graduate program and demonstrate strong academic performance. Preference is given to MIDA program students, international students, and those with financial need. Applications are accepted through faculty nominations or self-nominations.

The Kourdie-Elshafei Scholarship provides $2500 to undergraduate students in Western Michigan University's Political Science Department. Established by alumna Touline Kourdie Elshafei, this scholarship aims to support students with a minimum GPA of 3.15 who demonstrate financial need and have junior or senior status. Preference is given to first-generation college students and those overcoming socio-economic hardships, fostering opportunities for individuals from urban high schools.

The Dorothy and Edwin Liu Scholarship Fund, established by Frances Liu, aims to support higher education for students in Hawaii, particularly female graduates of Hilo High School. Eligible recipients must demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 2.0, and be of Asian descent if they are reapplying. The fund prioritizes students attending the University of Hawaii, Manoa or Hilo, ensuring continued support for those in good academic standing.

The Osage Chapter Service Scholarships, funded by the Association for Women Geoscientists, support undergraduate and graduate students in geosciences. These scholarships of $500 aim to promote the participation of underrepresented groups in the field. Eligible applicants must be AWG members and enrolled in a university within the Osage region. The program encourages outreach and community service while honoring the contributions of Sean S. Thomson to the Osage Chapter.

The Jack Catlin Memorial is a prestigious award offered by Montana State University aimed at supporting students dedicated to the veterinary profession. It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated commitment through academic excellence and community service. Eligible candidates include high school graduates from Montana or those enrolled in pre-veterinary programs, with awards varying based on merit. This initiative underscores the importance of fostering future veterinarians who contribute positively to the field and the community.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is dedicated to advancing emergency care through the Strategies to Innovate Emergency Care Clinical Trials Network (SIREN). This initiative seeks to establish clinical enrollment hubs that will enhance the network's ability to conduct trials aimed at improving outcomes for patients experiencing neurological and cardiovascular emergencies. Although applications are not currently being accepted, this notice encourages potential applicants to prepare collaborative and impactful proposals.

The Camp Fire Fund Grant Program, administered by the North Valley Community Foundation, aims to support recovery efforts in the Camp Fire burn scar area. Grants ranging from $500 to $10,000 will be awarded to nonprofits and government agencies addressing the needs of vulnerable community members. The program focuses on projects that enhance health, housing, education, and economic development, ensuring strategic funding while avoiding duplication of existing resources.

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois (CFCI) offers Community Needs Grants to support programs that address significant community needs. These grants focus on community development, capacity building, and education, emphasizing strategic and collaborative approaches. Notably, food-related projects are not funded under this program, as they fall under the Ending Hunger Together Grants. CFCI is dedicated to creating lasting value and improving the quality of charitable work in the community.

The Entergy Micro Grants Program offers funding of up to $1,000 for various initiatives including arts, education, and community improvement. Eligible organizations are typically 501(c)(3) non-profits, schools, or government entities. Applications should be submitted at least three months in advance, as review times can take 8 to 12 weeks. Notably, grants will not be awarded to individuals or for capital projects, political activities, or religious purposes.

Onward! A Legacy Foundation

We are your local community foundation providing scholarships and grants to non-profits. We also collaborate with regional non-profits by investing their endowment funds and earn market rates of return. Onward! currently manages 170+ funds with total assets over $9.7 million. The foundation's guiding principles:

• Invest donor funds responsibly to preserve capital, provide growth, and earn income for grant making.
• Create and encourage methods for philanthropic giving to meet financial goals for a variety of donors.
• Identify, improve, and assist in addressing the needs of the Four Corners' communities.
• Foster understanding and cooperation among diverse cultural and ethnic groups.

Onward! Grant

Onward! A Legacy Foundation, in our dedication to the philanthropic health of Southwest Colorado, is opening our enhancement grant cycle for another year. 20+ years of careful work and dedication has created a foundation where investors can easily and safely make philanthropic donations to investment funds which grow and provide income for non-profit efforts, Onward! continues to enrich the four corners community.

Onward! will consider grant proposals that make significant contributions to the health and quality of life for the residents of Southwest Colorado. This may include but is not limited to programs and projects that contribute towards: social, emotional, or physical well-being, youth, diversity, economic enhancement, civic beautification, arts and culture, leadership development; in order to support any organizations that target the specific needs of our diverse community. 

The Georgia E. Doles Walker Emergency Grant at Western Michigan University provides crucial financial assistance to undergraduate sociology students facing unexpected expenses. This grant, up to $500, is designed to alleviate financial burdens by covering costs for books, supplies, or travel related to education. However, it is important to note that funds cannot be used for tuition or fees. Preference is given to applicants who contribute to the diversity and multiculturalism of the university community.

The Lanny Wilde Scholarship, offered by the WMU Department of Sociology, supports undergraduate students who are currently employed as WMU Public Safety Officers and enrolled in a Criminal Justice Program. With a total award of $500 per semester, this scholarship aims to ease the financial burden on dedicated students pursuing higher education. Nominations are forwarded by the Director of WMU Public Safety to Dr. Zoann Snyder by February 1st each year.

The Lloyd Braithwaite Scholarship, offered by the Department of Sociology at Western Michigan University, provides $1,000 to full-time undergraduate criminal justice students with a minimum 3.0 GPA. This scholarship does not require financial need and is awarded in two installments of $500 for the fall and spring semesters. Applicants must submit a resume and three letters of recommendation by February 1st to be considered for this opportunity.

The Community Fund for the Gore Mountain Region, established in 2005 by Michael Ellis, provides vital resources for local nonprofits in Johnsburg, Chester, Minerva, Horicon, and Schroon. With over $406,000 raised, it supports community beautification, education, culture, arts, and programs for youth and seniors. Managed by dedicated volunteers, the fund has distributed nearly $100,000 across 161 grants, enhancing the lives of residents and fostering community growth.