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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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32,618 Results based on applied filters

Legacy of Learning Scholarship

Community Foundation of West Texas
Private
Bailey County, Texas, Cochran County, Texas +13 more
Unspecified amount
The Legacy of Learning Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of West Texas, honors the contributions of Mary E. Massingill, a dedicated educator. Established to support junior and senior students in the Texas Tech Education Department, this scholarship recognizes outstanding student teachers. With a focus on fostering a love of learning and promoting high academic standards, it aims to empower the next generation of educators, ensuring a lasting impact on the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

John T. Montford Scholarship

Community Foundation of West Texas
Private
Bailey County, Texas, Cochran County, Texas +13 more
Unspecified amount
The John T. Montford Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of West Texas, honors the legacy of former State Senator John Montford. This scholarship supports first-generation students attending Texas Tech University and its Health Sciences Center, fostering educational opportunities and community growth. Each year, over 100 scholarships are awarded to deserving South Plains area students, helping to create a brighter future through educational achievement and community engagement.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

George Scott Jr. Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of West Texas
Private
Lubbock County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The George Scott Jr. Memorial Scholarship, established by Kent Hance, honors the legacy of George Scott Jr. and supports Lubbock County High School seniors attending Texas Tech University. The scholarship aims to empower students, particularly African Americans, by providing financial assistance for their educational pursuits. Each year, the Community Foundation of West Texas awards numerous scholarships, fostering a brighter future for the South Plains community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

GrantED (Education Mini Grant)

Parkersburg Area Community Foundation
Private
Calhoun County, West Virginia, Doddridge County, West Virginia +9 more
Up to US $3,000
GrantED (Education Mini Grant) aims to enhance educational experiences for teachers and students by providing funding of up to $3000 per application. The Parkersburg Area Community Foundation supports this initiative, which allows unlimited applications from schools while limiting each teacher to one request per year. Eligible applicants include teachers, librarians, nurses, and counselors, all of whom must focus on educational support. Note that general supplies and snacks are excluded from funding.
Teacher Development & Training Academic Success & Enrichment

Barbara L. Packer Fellowship

American Antiquarian Society
Private
Worcester County, Massachusetts
US $2,200 - US $4,400
The Barbara L. Packer Fellowship, offered by the American Antiquarian Society, supports scholars conducting research on the Transcendentalists, particularly Ralph Waldo Emerson, Margaret Fuller, and Henry David Thoreau. Named in honor of Barbara L. Packer, the fellowship provides a stipend of $2,200 per month for one to two months of research from June 1 to May 31. Eligible candidates include Ph.D. candidates, pre-tenure faculty, and independent scholars with relevant projects.
Community Culture & Heritage Writing & Literature

Diekemper Sofia Scholarship

Community Foundation of West Texas
Private
California, United States
Unspecified amount
The Diekemper Sofia Scholarship, established by Mrs. Lou Dunn Diekemper, supports students aged 40 and older enrolled in the global program at Sofia University in Palo Alto, California. This initiative, part of the Community Foundation of West Texas, aims to create a lasting impact on students' lives through educational opportunities. By fostering personal growth and development, the scholarship helps build a stronger future for individuals and the community as a whole.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

R Accelerated Award Grants

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer
Private
Canada, United States
Up to US $800,000
The R Accelerated Award Grants by Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation aim to support innovative pediatric oncology research. These grants are designed for early-career scientists focused on developing less toxic therapies for childhood cancers. Eligible applicants must be first-time principal investigators with a strong institutional backing and a commitment to pediatric cancer research. The program emphasizes the importance of scientific rigor and aims to accelerate the discovery of effective treatments, thereby improving outcomes for children with cancer.
Cancer / Oncology

Bobby Rogers Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of West Texas
Private
Garza County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The Bobby Rogers Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of West Texas, honors a dedicated chemical engineer who inspired many. It supports graduating high school seniors from Post High School or any school in Garza County, emphasizing financial need and intent to pursue higher education. This scholarship aims to create a lasting impact on students' lives, fostering a brighter future for the South Plains community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Association of Texas Leaders for Education TASFAA Scholarship

Community Foundation of West Texas
Private
Bailey County, Texas, Cochran County, Texas +13 more
Unspecified amount
The Association of Texas Leaders for Education TASFAA Scholarship, established by the Association of Texas Leaders for Education for TASFAA members, supports students who are committed to pursuing their education at accredited Texas institutions. The Community Foundation of West Texas manages this scholarship, providing financial assistance to those who demonstrate service to their community and TASFAA. This initiative aims to empower students and foster future leaders in the South Plains area.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Association of Texas Leaders for Education Scholarship

Community Foundation of West Texas
Private
Bailey County, Texas, Cochran County, Texas +13 more
Unspecified amount
The Association of Texas Leaders for Education Scholarship, established by ATLE, supports Texas resident graduating seniors planning to attend a Texas institution for post-secondary education. This scholarship aims to benefit students with a minimum GPA of 3.5, demonstrating financial need and community service. Each year, over 100 scholarships are awarded by the Community Foundation of West Texas, fostering educational opportunities and empowering local students to build a brighter future.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

Accelerator Programs: Reach Grant

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer
Private
Canada, United States
Up to US $250,000
The Accelerator Programs: Reach Grant, offered by Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, aims to bridge gaps in pediatric cancer research by funding pre-clinical studies necessary for clinical trial readiness. With a mission rooted in Alex Scott’s legacy, the program supports innovative research that can lead to effective treatments for children with cancer. By facilitating the transition from laboratory to clinical settings, the Reach Grant plays a crucial role in advancing pediatric oncology and improving outcomes for young patients.
Cancer / Oncology

Arts Programming in Public Libraries Grants

Greater Worcester Community Foundation
Private
Worcester County, Massachusetts
US $1,000 - US $10,000

Greater Worcester Community Foundation

Run by the people, for the people, the Foundation is unique as a citizen-run model of philanthropy dedicated to enhancing the community as a whole, now and in the future, rather than just one sector or cause. The Foundation is unique in its capacity to unite people from diverse sectors in influencing and effecting positive change throughout Worcester County.

Greater Worcester Community Foundation is central Massachusetts’ leading community foundation, employing its expertise and resources to address the region’s most urgent needs. Mission: To enhance our community, now and in the future, through philanthropic leadership. Vision: The communities of greater Worcester are valued and attractive because of the well-being of our citizens.

Arts Programming in Public Libraries Grants

In celebration of our 50th anniversary, Greater Worcester Community Foundation is pleased to offer this grant opportunity exclusively to public libraries in Worcester County.

This grant program seeks to both elevate the arts and uplift the essential role libraries play in building community cohesion by making arts and culture experiences available to children, youth and families.

By bringing creative expression, visual/performing arts, and cultural programming into their spaces, libraries can engage communities, provide hands-on learning, and foster creativity.

Library & Information Science Library Services Arts / Culture Access & Participation

ME Recreational Trails Program Grants

Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry
State/Local Government
Maine
US $5,000 - US $120,000
The Maine Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grants support the development and maintenance of recreational trails for both motorized and non-motorized uses. Funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation, RTP grants cover up to 80% of project costs, with a focus on enhancing trail access, safety, and environmental education. Eligible applicants include non-profits, municipalities, and state agencies. The program aims to foster diverse trail use, promote tourism, and ensure accessibility for all users, including those with disabilities.
Trail Creation & Maintenance

Rice Scholarship Fund

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Maine
Unspecified amount
The Rice Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation in 1996, offers scholarships to students who have spent significant time on Maine's offshore islands and are pursuing higher education. This fund supports residents from both offshore and bridged islands, encouraging them to further their education at accredited institutions. Selection is based on financial need and commitment to community service, ensuring support for deserving students in Maine.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

NOMIS–STRI Fellowships 3 Year Postdoctoral Fellowships in Animal Behavior

Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute
Federal Government
Panama
Up to US $75,000
The NOMIS–STRI Fellowships offer exceptional biologists the opportunity to conduct three years of postdoctoral research in animal behavior in Panama. Candidates will explore social behavior's causes and evolution, with a focus on sensory biology, cognitive ecology, and neurogenetics. The fellowship includes a stipend of $62,000 per year and a research budget of $13,000. Selected fellows will join a collaborative community at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, fostering interdisciplinary projects in one of the world's most biodiverse regions.
Animal Behavior (Ethology)

bp Foundation Community Fund Grant

John S And James L Knight Foundation Inc
Private
Lake County, Indiana, Piatt County, Illinois
Up to US $5,000
The bp Foundation Community Fund Grant, in partnership with Legacy Foundation, aims to support organizations in Hammond, East Chicago, and Whiting impacted by the August 2025 storms. This grant offers up to $5,000 to assist with recovery efforts and enhance future preparedness. Eligible applicants include 501c3 nonprofits, churches, schools, local governments, and first responder agencies that have faced damage or service interruptions due to the storms.
Disaster Preparedness First Responders

Stephen L. Ross Scholarship Fund

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Cumberland County, Maine
Unspecified amount
The Stephen L. Ross Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, honors the memory of Stephen L. Ross, a Chebeague Island resident. This fund provides financial support to graduating high school seniors and first-year post-secondary students pursuing higher education or vocational training. Additionally, it recognizes students entering the education field with the Kenneth Hamilton Education Award. MaineCF awards over $3 million annually through nearly 700 scholarship funds, supporting local educational aspirations.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Virginia M Ballard Scholarship Fund

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Cumberland County, Maine
Unspecified amount
The Virginia M Ballard Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports residents of Chebeague Island facing financial need. Founded in 1983, the Maine Community Foundation helps Maine residents access education by awarding over $3 million annually through numerous scholarship funds. This initiative underscores the foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities for students in various accredited institutions and programs.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Wendell S. Doody Memorial Scholarship Fund

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Maine
Unspecified amount
The Wendell S. Doody Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Washburn District High School or Presque Isle High School. This scholarship aims to assist students pursuing technical education in trades such as plumbing, welding, and carpentry at community colleges in Maine. With a focus on students demonstrating academic promise, this fund is a tribute to Wendell S. Doody's legacy of hard work and community service.
Academic Scholarship Programs Vocational & Trade Education

Sprague Charitable Contribution Program

Sprague
Corporate
Connecticut, District of Columbia +11 more
US $250 - US $10,000
The Sprague Charitable Contribution Program focuses on giving back to communities through charitable donations. With awards ranging from $250 to $10,000, priority is given to organizations that support children and environmental stewardship, particularly within Sprague's operational areas. The program seeks impactful contributions that can achieve significant results, reflecting Sprague's commitment to social responsibility and community improvement.
Environment Youth Services

2025-2027 Out of School Programs Grant Program

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Comal County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The 2025-2027 Out of School Programs Grant Program aims to support the New Braunfels Youth Collaborative in providing safe and engaging after-school programs for youth aged 12-18 in Comal County. With a total funding of $5,000,000, this initiative fosters educational and recreational activities outside regular school hours, ensuring a supportive environment for youth development.
Student Retention & Drop-Out Prevention

Harry C. Trexler Trust Grants

Harry C. Trexler Trust (Estate)
Private
Lehigh County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Harry C. Trexler Trust Grants support charitable organizations in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, continuing the legacy of philanthropist Harry C. Trexler. With a focus on community needs, the Trust provides funding for various initiatives, particularly in maintaining and improving local parks. Since 1935, over $57 million has been invested in these parks, reflecting Trexler's commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Allentown and its surrounding areas.
Parks & Public Spaces Outdoor Recreation

Celebrate Education Grants

Oshkosh Area Community Foundation
Private
Winnebago County, Wisconsin
US $500 - US $2,000
The Celebrate Education Grants aim to enhance educational excellence in Oshkosh area schools by providing funding opportunities ranging from $500 to $2,000. Collaborating with community partners, the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation supports teachers in accessing necessary resources, with grant recipients celebrated at the annual Celebrate Education event. Eligible applicants include public and parochial school teachers within the district, focusing on projects that inspire and enrich the educational experience for students.
Education - K through 12 Academic Success & Enrichment

Kenneth Jay Boss Fellowship in Invertebrate Zoology

Smithsonian Institution (SI)
Federal Government
District of Columbia
Unspecified amount
The Kenneth Jay Boss Fellowship in Invertebrate Zoology supports graduate students conducting independent research on mollusks and other invertebrates at the National Museum of Natural History. Recipients receive a stipend of $1,000 per week for housing and subsistence, with potential additional funding for research supplies. Fellowships are awarded biannually, with proposals generally lasting from one week to six months. Applicants must be graduate students, proficient in English, and work closely with an IZ research scientist.
Invertebrate Zoology

Maine Artist Fellowship- Fine Craft

Maine Arts Commission
State/Local Government
Maine
US $5,000
The Maine Artist Fellowship for Fine Craft recognizes the artistic excellence of Maine artists through merit-based awards. Selected fellows receive unrestricted funding to advance their careers, promotional opportunities, and networking experiences. This fellowship aims to support artists engaged in contemporary or traditional craft practices. Eligible individuals must be Maine residents, at least 25 years old, and not enrolled in school. This award fosters a community of creativity and collaboration among seven distinguished fellows.
Fine Art

Kristian Fauchald Polychaete Research Fellowship

Smithsonian Institution (SI)
Federal Government
District of Columbia
Up to US $10,000
The Kristian Fauchald Polychaete Research Fellowship offers funding for polychaete biologists at all career stages to conduct independent research at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. This fellowship promotes global collaboration in polychaete studies, providing access to extensive resources and facilities. Fellowships are awarded biannually, supporting projects of one week to six months, with eligible expenses including relocation and research costs. Applicants must engage actively in collections-based research and contact the curator before applying.
Invertebrate Zoology

DCNR Non-Motorized Trails Grants

Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR)
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The DCNR Non-Motorized Trails Grants support the development, rehabilitation, and maintenance of trails for non-motorized recreation. Eligible projects include trail acquisition, planning, and educational programs that promote safety and environmental protection. This funding is essential for enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities and ensuring sustainable trail use throughout Pennsylvania. The grants encourage communities to engage in creating safe and enjoyable spaces for activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Trail Creation & Maintenance

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.