Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Kassel Smit Make A Difference Scholarship, established by the Triangle Community Foundation, is designed to honor the legacy of Kassel Smit by recognizing graduating students from Cary High School who embody creativity, curiosity, and compassion. This non-renewable scholarship offers financial support for various educational expenses at accredited institutions, with no GPA or residency requirements, allowing deserving students to pursue their academic goals without barriers.

The Do it Best Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on community needs, particularly in health and wellness, youth enrichment, the arts, and community development. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $20,000, with no strict limits based on quarterly applications. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and be located near specific areas. This initiative aims to enhance community resources and foster connections among residents.

The Reverend Pinckney Scholarship Program, established by the Coastal Community Foundation, aims to support first-generation college students from Beaufort, Charleston, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper counties. With scholarships of up to $10,000, scholars receive mentoring, professional training, and access to mental health resources. This initiative honors Rev. Clementa Pinckney's legacy, promoting education and community leadership while preparing students for successful college experiences and careers. Applications are accepted in the second semester of the senior year.

The Women’s Service League of North Central Washington Scholarship, established in 2013, aims to support female students from various high schools in the region. This scholarship prioritizes applicants who demonstrate community involvement, leadership skills, and a minimum GPA of 2.75. Special consideration is given to those who have faced significant challenges and to children or grandchildren of League members, fostering a commitment to volunteerism and community improvement.

The Pay for Performance Operating Grant Program by Empire State Development aims to support innovative workforce development initiatives in New York State. This grant facilitates funding for new or expanded programs focused on in-demand skills training, allowing applicants to cover various operational costs like curricula development and technology. The program emphasizes sustainable and impactful solutions that foster job creation and economic growth while addressing the needs of local industries and trainees.

Small Rental Development Program (SRDP)

The Small Rental Development Program (SRDP) offers both federal and state funding sources for the development of new construction and rehabilitation of projects with small numbers of affordable housing units (4-39). Funding available for the 2026 Small Rental Development Program (SRDP) will be approximately $40,483,611.93 through a competitive application cycle beginning in April. 

Approximately $40,483,611.93 of funding will be available. Applications will be placed in one of the three (3) set-asides:

• General New Construction/ Conversion– $20,241,805.97 50% of available funds. This set-aside will include new construction applications that contain 5-39 units.
• Micro Developments – $10,120,902.98, 25% of available funds. Thisset-aside will include new construction and rehabilitation applicationsthat contain 4 units.
• Rehabilitation – $10,120,902.98, 25% of available funds. This set-aside will include rehabilitation applications that contain 5-39 units.

Mission Statement

Beckley Area Foundation exists to inspire and facilitate generous charitable giving that advances our community.

The Beckley Area Foundation is committed to enriching lives and strengthening communities across Southern West Virginia.

Scholarship

Supporting Student Success

The Beckley Area Foundation proudly manages scholarship funds established by individuals, businesses, and organizations dedicated to helping students pursue higher education. Many of these scholarships are tailored for specific schools, fields of study, or graduates from local high schools, while others offer broader opportunities. No matter the path, our scholarships aim to support students from our region as they work toward achieving their educational goals.

The Christie H. Meadows Family Scholarship

Eligibility

Need based scholarship for Raleigh County graduates, Member of FFA (Future Farmers of America) and/or 4Hclub, Required documentation of participation in FFA and/or 4H club, and preference given to students who have submitted an FFA and/or 4H project to the West Virginia State Fair.

The Patrick Shinners Memorial Team Player Scholarship, managed by the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation, provides financial support to student-athletes in Cattaraugus and Chautauqua counties who exemplify teamwork and dedication in football. Established in memory of Patrick Shinners, this scholarship honors those who contribute positively to their teams, regardless of individual accolades. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors with a commitment to community involvement and team spirit, encouraging all athletes, including those entering the Armed Forces or technical trades.

The Women and Girls Fund of Waukesha County (WGF) provides grants up to $20,000 to support local nonprofit projects that empower women and girls. Focus areas include health, self-sufficiency, and empowerment, addressing needs such as mental health, economic security, and education. Since its inception, the WGF has awarded over $2 million to organizations throughout Waukesha County, fostering safety and well-being for women and girls in the community.

The Cancer Care Specialists of Illinois Scholarship offers financial assistance for tuition to high school seniors and healthcare professionals in oncology/hematology within Central and Southern Illinois. The scholarship supports educational pursuits and professional development in these fields. Applications are accepted monthly, with a deadline for 2025 set for December 1st. Eligible candidates must maintain a GPA of 3.0 and reside in specific counties, ensuring support for local talent in healthcare.

The Kerdyk Family Trust Music Scholarship, administered by the Coral Gables Community Foundation, honors students with a passion for music. Established in memory of Commissioner William H. Kerdyk, Sr., this annual scholarship is awarded to graduating seniors who demonstrate musical interest and academic success. Key eligibility factors include residing in Coral Gables and planning to pursue music studies in college. The scholarship supports students aiming for a career in music, fostering future talent in the arts.

The Impact100 Garden State Grant aims to support innovative projects that enhance the well-being of underserved populations in various focus areas, including Arts & Culture, Education, Health & Wellness, and Environmental Preservation. Organizations must be established 501(c)(3) charities with a track record of service, addressing clear community needs, and utilizing the $100,000 grant effectively within three years. This initiative fosters collaboration among nonprofits to maximize community impact.

The EDU Core Research (ECR) program invites proposals for fundamental research in STEM education, focusing on learning environments, broadening participation, and workforce development. The program supports essential research activities for diverse learners, emphasizing long-term knowledge generation. Proposals can request funding up to $2.5 million over 3 to 5 years, depending on the project's scope. Successful proposals will advance foundational knowledge in STEM education, contributing to improved practices in the field.

Indigo Hope Foundation: First Responder Wellness Grant

Supporting programs that provide mental health resources, training, family support, and wellness services for our first responders.

Key Focus Areas:

• Mental Health Support
• Family Services
• Training Programs
• Peer Support

Example Programs We Fund:

• Critical incident stress management
• Family counseling services
• Peer support programs
• Wellness and resilience training

Abandoned Mine Drainage Abatement and Treatment Program (AMDATP)

Act 13 of 2012 establishes the Marcellus Legacy Fund and allocates funds to the Commonwealth Financing Authority (the “Authority”) for abandoned mine drainage, abatement, and treatment. Abandoned Mine Drainage (AMD) is one of the largest sources of stream impairment in Pennsylvania. Billions of gallons of AMD impair over 5,500 miles of streams within the Commonwealth.

Uses

Projects which involve the reclamation of Abandoned Mine Well(s), construction of a new AMD site, remediation and repair of existing AMD project sites, operation and maintenance maintaining current AMD remediation sites, establishment of trust fund to ensure ongoing maintenance is achieved, and monitoring of water quality to track or continue to trace non-point source load reductions resulting from AMD remediation projects.

Funding

Grants shall be awarded to eligible applicants for projects that do not exceed $1,000,000. The grant requires a least a 15% match of the total project cost.

The Lady Suzanna P. Tweed Scholarship, administered by the Coral Gables Community Foundation, honors Lady Tweed's legacy of supporting education and volunteerism. Aimed at students from Coral Gables Senior High, it requires excellence in academics and community involvement. Awards are based on financial need and can be one-year or renewable. Over $2.9 million in scholarships have been granted in the past decade, helping deserving students further their education at various institutions.

The Malouf and Iris Abraham Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports high school seniors from select Texas Panhandle counties who are pursuing a degree in Agriculture at West Texas A&M University. This scholarship is designed to foster educational opportunities for local students, encouraging community involvement and agricultural studies. If no eligible applicants majoring in Agriculture apply, other majors may also be considered, ensuring broader access to educational funding.

The Malouf and Iris Abraham Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors from six counties in the Texas Panhandle who are pursuing an Agriculture major at Texas Tech University. This scholarship aims to empower local students by enhancing their educational opportunities in agricultural studies. If no eligible applicants majoring in Agriculture apply, students from other majors will also be considered, ensuring broader access to this valuable support.

The Guyon Scholarship for Veterans, established by Ann Guyon in memory of her husband Bill, supports U.S. military veterans from specific Wisconsin counties. It offers a non-renewable $1,000 scholarship for college costs during the first semester. Eligibility includes being a veteran and planning to attend an accredited institution. Financial need is considered, ensuring that the scholarship benefits those who require support for their educational pursuits.

The NCAAA Alzheimer’s Aide Grant aims to enhance adult day care services for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias in North Central Connecticut. This initiative, backed by the North Central Area Agency on Aging, will provide funding to support specialized care positions and ensure that centers meet the needs of this vulnerable population. The program underscores NCAAA's commitment to improving the quality of life for older adults and their families through effective resource allocation.

The Malouf and Iris Abraham Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors from specific counties in the Texas Panhandle who plan to attend Oklahoma Panhandle State University. While preference is given to students majoring in Agriculture, other majors may also be considered if no eligible candidates meet the criteria. This initiative aims to nurture local talent and contribute to the region's agricultural sector.

The Malouf and Iris Abraham Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors from select counties in the Texas Panhandle who plan to attend Clarendon College. While a preference is given to students majoring in Agriculture, other majors may be considered if no eligible applicants meet this criterion. This scholarship fosters educational opportunities in a community-focused environment.

The Wenatchee Valley Street Rods Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, aims to support students pursuing education in automotive fields or health sciences at Wenatchee Valley College. Eligible applicants include high school seniors from Chelan County or Eastmont School District, as well as current students in medically related programs. Applicants must demonstrate good citizenship and criminal record eligibility. This scholarship can be renewed with reapplication.

Achievement Scholarship for Students with a History of Chronic Illness (FN)

Essay:

• Tell us about your experiences/struggles with your chronic illness and what you have done to overcome it.

Awards:

• One time award of $1,500.

The Westchester Youth Civic Engagement Grants aim to empower young people (up to age 24) to actively participate in civic life. By supporting youth-led projects that promote democracy and social equity, the program encourages nonpartisan initiatives across diverse issue areas. Grants of up to $100,000 over two years will fund projects such as local government involvement, voter registration drives, and media literacy initiatives, fostering critical skills and resilience among youth to become active changemakers in their communities.

The Vets Serving Vets Scholarship, established by North Central Washington Vets Serving Vets through the Community Foundation of NCW, supports residents of Chelan and Douglas counties who have been honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces. This scholarship is aimed at individuals pursuing full-time college education, helping them achieve their academic goals while honoring their service. Since its inception in 2017, it has played a vital role in assisting veterans in their educational journeys.

The Thomas J Nelson Sr Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, honors the legacy of Tom Nelson, a dedicated community member. This scholarship is available to graduating seniors or past graduates from Chelan, Douglas, or Okanogan counties, who demonstrate financial need and plan to pursue higher education. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 for four-year programs or 2.5 for community colleges and trade schools, reflecting Tom's commitment to educational support.