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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

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32,629 Results based on applied filters

William N. Jones Scholarship

Beckley Area Foundation
Private
Raleigh County, West Virginia
Unspecified amount
The William N. Jones Scholarship, offered by the Beckley Area Foundation, provides financial assistance to graduating seniors from Raleigh County who demonstrate financial need. This scholarship aims to support students in their pursuit of higher education, covering essential educational expenses. Although the award is not renewable, it plays a crucial role in helping eligible students embark on their postsecondary studies. The Beckley Area Foundation, established in 1985, is dedicated to strengthening communities through charitable giving.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation College Success / Persistence

NYSCA Targeted Opportunities Grant (NY)

New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA)
State/Local Government
New York
US $10,000 - US $35,000
The NYSCA Targeted Opportunities Grant supports the arts and creativity in New York State through various funding opportunities, including Folk and Traditional Arts Apprenticeships, Rehearsal Space for Performing Arts, and Performing Arts Residencies. Grants range from $10,000 to $35,000, depending on the program. Nonprofit organizations must prequalify with the State Financial System to be eligible for funding, ensuring a focus on enhancing artistic diversity across the state.
Performing Arts Folk Art / Traditional Art Artist Training & Development +1 more

Charles H. Farnsworth Trust Grant

Charles H. Farnsworth Trust
Private
Massachusetts
US $10,000 - US $250,000
The Charles H. Farnsworth Trust Grant aims to support older adults in living independently and with dignity, focusing on affordable housing and essential support services. Established in 1930, the trust funds projects related to housing development, healthcare services, and community planning. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $250,000, prioritizing projects in the Greater Boston area that enhance the quality of life for seniors, ensuring they have the necessary resources and support.
Senior Services Equitable & Affordable Housing

NIDCD Research Fellowship for Audiologists

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The NIDCD Research Fellowship for Audiologists provides clinical audiologists enrolled in Ph.D. programs with essential research training. This initiative encourages the integration of clinical and translational research, fostering strong research foundations vital for advancing audiology and hearing healthcare. Although applications are not currently being solicited, the program aims to prepare potential candidates for meaningful collaborations and impactful research projects in the biomedical, behavioral, or clinical sciences.
Education - Higher Education Hearing Disorders & Audiology

San Joaquin Audubon Society Grant

San Joaquin Audubon Society
Private
San Joaquin County, California
Up to US $1,500
The San Joaquin Audubon Society Grant aims to support organizations dedicated to the conservation of birds and ecosystems in San Joaquin County. With a focus on environmental literacy, restoration, and birding, this grant invites applications for projects that benefit local communities. Funded by the generous support of the Webster Foundation, this initiative seeks to foster a better future for our natural environment.
Ornithological Conservation Environmental Conservation Environmental Education

Hedwig T. Kniker Scholarship

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
Bexar County, Texas
US $2,500
The Hedwig T. Kniker Scholarship, offered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports Texas residents pursuing degrees in Botany, Chemistry, Geology, Physics, or Zoology. Applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA and demonstrate financial need. This renewable scholarship provides funding for tuition, room, and board for full-time students attending accredited colleges in San Antonio. Since 1964, the foundation has empowered students and enhanced community well-being through impactful grants and scholarships.
Chemistry Plant Science Physics +3 more

Good Relatives Collaborative Grants

Good Relatives Collaborative
Association/Society
Minnesota, North Dakota +1 more
US $50,000 - US $100,000
The Good Relatives Collaborative Grants, funded by the Bush Foundation, aim to empower grassroots and Native-led organizations across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and the 23 Native nations. This initiative provides responsive grants of $50,000 and $100,000 to support community leadership, healing, and cultural revitalization. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the program seeks to address the unique needs of Native communities while promoting accessible philanthropy and sustainable growth.
Native American Services Native American Culture & Heritage Indigenous Sovereignty & Rights +1 more

Hamilton Rotary Club Community Grant

ROTARY INTERNATIONAL
Private
Butler County, Ohio
Up to US $2,500
The Hamilton Rotary Club Community Grant supports local charitable organizations, particularly those focused on youth initiatives. Established in 1919, the club is part of Rotary International, promoting humanitarian efforts and ethical standards. Grants require detailed applications outlining project goals, objectives, and funding needs. However, grants typically exclude capital campaigns and annual events. This initiative aims to foster community betterment through measurable outcomes, aligning with the club's mission of goodwill and service.
Youth Services Youth Development & Leadership Youth Involvement in the Arts

James H. And Ann P. Bissett Scholarship Trust

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
Bexar County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The James H. and Ann P. Bissett Scholarship Trust, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports Bexar County high school seniors pursuing degrees in nursing or medical technology. This renewable scholarship covers tuition, fees, and books for full-time students, with a renewal term of three years, provided they maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. Since its inception in 1964, the foundation has significantly contributed to the educational opportunities and quality of life in the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Nursing +1 more

Cybersecurity Traineeship

Commonwealth Cyber Initiative
Association/Society
Alexandria City, Virginia, Arlington County, Virginia +7 more
Up to US $19,200
The Cybersecurity Traineeship, in collaboration with Northern Virginia Community College, aims to equip participants with essential cybersecurity skills. This program targets individuals with no prior experience, guiding them towards entry-level roles in the cybersecurity field. Participants engage in a 7-week online bootcamp, potentially followed by 12 weeks of paid on-the-job training. Trainees receive financial support totaling $19,200, ensuring a comprehensive training experience while enhancing the cybersecurity workforce in Virginia.
Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Cybersecurity

First Bank Richmond Community Foundation Grant

First Bank Richmond Inc Community Foundation
Private
Shelby County, Indiana, Wayne County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The First Bank Richmond Community Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in the communities served by First Bank Richmond. Focused on economic development, education, health and human services, youth programs, and the arts, the foundation supports nonprofit organizations that align with its funding priorities. Grants are awarded annually to foster community growth and investment in the future.
Education Performing Arts Youth Services +3 more

LUNGevity VA Research Scholar Award

LUNGevity Foundation Inc
Private
United States
US $50,000 - US $100,000
The LUNGevity VA Research Scholar Award supports innovative lung cancer research within the Department of Veterans Affairs, with a focus on early detection and treatment methods relevant to veterans. The maximum award is $100,000, distributed over two years, contingent upon satisfactory progress. Applications are now open for the 2025 cycle, with funding aimed at improving outcomes and developing individualized treatment strategies, including targeted therapies and immunotherapies.
Lung Cancer Military & Veterans Services

Kenneth E. & Mary Lou Dunbar Scholarship to Honor Perry & Dunbar Employees

Community Foundation of Madison and Jefferson County
Private
United States
US $1,500

In 2025, the Community Foundation of Madison & Jefferson County awarded over $233,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors of the county’s public and private high schools. Nearly 50 different students earned money toward their college costs. Scholarships are available for a variety of applicants. Some are specific to schools, majors, need, or interests.

Kenneth E. & Mary Lou Dunbar Scholarship to Honor Perry & Dunbar Employees

Amount:

  • $1,500 | 1 scholarship

CFMJC scholarships may be used for tuition and related expenses like fees and required equipment at accredited colleges and universities. Room and board are NOT covered.

Education - Higher Education Music Festivals

Lavern Anderson Memorial Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Rock County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Lavern Anderson Memorial Scholarship supports students from Janesville Charter Schools, Craig, and Parker High Schools who attended Lincoln Elementary. Eligible candidates should pursue studies in agriculture, education, or health care, and maintain a class ranking in the top 50%. This scholarship is part of the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, which manages over 700 funds to enhance the quality of life across nine counties in the region.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Agriculture +2 more

Abortion Practical Support Grant Program

California Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI)
State/Local Government
California
US $100,000 - US $750,000
The Practical Support Grant Program, administered by Essential Access Health under the California Department of Health Care Access and Information, allocates $20 million to assist pregnant individuals seeking abortions. This grant provides direct support for services like transportation, lodging, and childcare, ensuring access to reproductive care. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations based in California that aid those facing barriers to abortion services, promoting essential healthcare access for all.
Reproductive Health Health Care Access & Delivery Reproductive Rights +1 more

Rising Retail Stars Scholarship

NRF Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000
The NRF Foundation Rising Stars Scholarship aims to inspire high school students to explore diverse career paths in the retail industry. By encouraging early participation in the NRF Foundation Student Program, the scholarship allows nominated freshmen and sophomores to gain invaluable insights. Eligible students, nominated by university members, receive a $1,000 travel stipend for the program held in New York City from January 8-11, 2026, fostering their academic and professional growth.
Employment Services Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs +1 more

Great Lakes Safety Training Center Scholarship

Saginaw Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $500 - US $4,000
The Great Lakes Safety Training Center Scholarship, established by local contractors and businesses, aims to support residents of Gratiot or Saginaw County pursuing careers in trades or construction with a focus on safety. This scholarship is available to individuals enrolled in degree or certification programs at accredited institutions in Michigan, emphasizing the importance of safety in skilled trades. With awards typically ranging from $500 to $4,000, this initiative addresses the growing demand for skilled workers in the community.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education Education - High School +1 more

AK Senior Access Program (SAP)

Alaska Housing Finance Corporation
State/Local Government
Alaska
Up to US $820,000

Alaska Housing Finance Corporation

Alaska Housing Finance Corporation’s mission is to provide Alaskans access to safe, quality, affordable housing.

Making mortgages accessible to Alaskans has been at the core of Alaska Housing. Over the years responsibilities of AHFC have expanded to include affordable housing programs, energy efficiency, senior housing and more.

Senior Housing Accessibility Modification Program (Senior Access Program)

NOFA Purpose and General Provisions

Under this Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA), Alaska Housing Finance Corporation will provide funding to successful respondents to act as a Grantee under the Senior Housing Accessibility Modification Program (Senior Access Program).

Through this Senior Access Program NOFA, Grantees provide and administer grants for qualifying senior households for the purpose of making needed accessibility modifications and life-safety repairs to their homes.

Senior Services Equitable & Affordable Housing

The Walt Disney Company UNCF Enhanced Scholars Program

The Walt Disney Company Foundation
Corporate
United States
Up to US $5,000
The Walt Disney Company UNCF Enhanced Scholars Program offers scholarships and internships to high-achieving college juniors interested in off-camera careers in the entertainment industry. With a scholarship of up to $5,000 and mentorship opportunities during the 2025-2026 academic year, this program aims to create a diverse pipeline of professionals. Selected students will gain invaluable experience through a summer internship with The Walt Disney Company, enhancing their career readiness in various business areas.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Television +1 more

ENF Community Investments Program - Spotlight Grants

Elks National Foundation Inc
Private
United States
US $2,000
The ENF Community Investments Program offers Spotlight Grants to Lodges, empowering them to tackle pressing community issues such as family literacy, veteran homelessness, and hunger. Each Lodge can apply for a $2,000 grant without needing to meet the GER's per-member-giving goal. Funds can be used for one of the designated project plans or combined with the Beacon Grant, enabling flexible support for local initiatives.
Basic Human Needs Military & Veterans Services Food Access & Hunger +1 more

Ounce of Prevention Scholarship Fund

Marshall County Community Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

We administer a number of scholarships, which range from the traditional academic and athletic awards to corporate and special circumstances offerings. Applying for a scholarship is free, so we invite you to spend some time finding opportunities for which you are a good fit.

Ounce of Prevention Scholarship Fund

The purpose of the fund is to provide one or more annual scholarships to graduates of an accredited high school located in Marshall County, Indiana.  

Recipients must be a survivor of cancer, have an immediate family member or friend who experienced cancer, or have demonstrated active participation in community service related to the prevention or cure of cancer.

Education - Higher Education Cancer / Oncology Career / College Preparation

Marshall County Farm Bureau Agriculture Scholarship

Marshall County Community Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

We administer a number of scholarships, which range from the traditional academic and athletic awards to corporate and special circumstances offerings. These scholarships are open to all residents of Marshall County, as long as other requirements are met.

Applying for a scholarship is free, so we invite you to spend some time finding opportunities for which you are a good fit.

Marshall County Farm Bureau Agriculture Scholarship

The purpose of this fund is to provide one or more annual scholarships to any graduating senior or any non-high school senior residing in Marshall County, Indiana entering at least a full-time freshman year of undergraduate studies in an agricultural program or in agricultural classes.

The scholarship recipient must submit proof to the Community Foundation of successful completion of the first semester/trimester in order to receive the scholarship.

This scholarship may be renewable to previous recipients.

Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Agricultural Education

Patrick Family Foundation Grant

Patrick Family Foundation
Private
South Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Patrick Family Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations in South Carolina, focusing on arts, healthcare, education, social services, and conservation. Established in 2005, the foundation aims to enhance the community through philanthropic efforts. Eligible applicants must utilize funds for charitable purposes only, and cannot engage in political activities. The foundation prioritizes operations, programs, and capital needs to benefit underserved populations and foster cultural enrichment.
Art & Culture Education - Higher Education Environmental Conservation +2 more

Jones Family Foundation Grant

The Jones Family Foundation
Private
Buffalo County, Wisconsin, Dakota County, Minnesota +9 more
Unspecified amount
The Jones Family Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the vitality of Red Wing by addressing critical community challenges. It prioritizes equitable access to resources and transformative ideas in areas such as education, economic vitality, and arts & culture. The foundation supports qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofits within a 30-mile radius of Red Wing, considering special projects, start-up costs, and program expansions. However, it does not fund ongoing operating expenses or religious/political programs.
Community Development & Revitalization Education Educational Access & Equity +3 more

Colonel David Marcus Memorial Scholarship Award

Jewish Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Colonel David Marcus Memorial Scholarship Award supports students from Burlington, Camden, or Gloucester Counties pursuing post-high school education, particularly in military programs. Established by the Jewish Community Foundation, this scholarship prioritizes candidates who embody Col. Marcus's ideals. Eligible applicants must be high school seniors and may apply for multiple awards. The fund has a strong community leadership background, managing over $35 million in assets to support educational initiatives.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs Jewish Culture +1 more

HRiA Robert E. Leet and Clara Guthrie Patterson Trust Mentored Research Award

Health Resources in Action
Private
Connecticut, New Jersey +1 more
Up to US $200,000
The HRiA Robert E. Leet and Clara Guthrie Patterson Trust Mentored Research Award aims to promote research on human diseases by supporting early-stage postdoctoral and clinical investigators. Established in 1980, the program encourages innovative pilot studies across various disciplines and aims to enhance the transition to independence for researchers. With a two-year award of $200,000 available to applicants in Connecticut, New Jersey, and Rhode Island, it prioritizes diversity and inclusion in biomedical research.
Diseases & Conditions Epidemiology & Public Health Population Biology +1 more

4-H Beef Club Fund

Community Foundation of Whitley County
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

4-H Beef Club Fund

The 4-H Beef Club Fund, established by the Whitley County 4H Beef Club, provides educational scholarship support for any member of Whitley County 4-H intent upon studying Agriculture at an accredited college or university in pursuit of a 2 or 4 year degree in the field.

Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Agricultural Education

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.

Last updated: November 2, 2026. Next update: December 6, 2026.

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.