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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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Filters

32,618 Results based on applied filters

Paul Charosh Independent Scholar Fellowship

Society For American Music
Private
Pierce County, Washington
US $1,500
The Paul Charosh Independent Scholar Fellowship, offered by the Society for American Music, supports independent scholars researching American music's social history. It encourages participation in annual conferences, fostering collaboration and professional development. The fellowship, initially valued at $1,500, promotes diverse scholarly engagement regardless of formal music credentials. Awardees benefit from waived conference fees and recognition in the program, highlighting significant contributions to American musical culture. This initiative aims to broaden access to scholarly resources and inspire innovative programming.
Music

Charles Hamm Fellowship

Society For American Music
Private
Cuyahoga County, Ohio
Up to US $2,000
The Charles Hamm Fellowship, awarded by the Society for American Music, supports a one-week research residency at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s Library and Archives in Cleveland, Ohio. This fellowship honors Charles Hamm's contributions to American and popular music scholarship. It is open to scholars at all career stages and provides up to $2,000 to cover residency-related expenses. The fellowship is awarded annually, fostering deeper engagement with American music history.
Music

Crop Science Graduate Student Scholarship

Crop Science Society of America (CSSA)
Association/Society
United States
US $2,000
The Crop Science Graduate Student Scholarship, supported by the Gerald O. Mott family, offers financial assistance to outstanding graduate students pursuing M.S. or Ph.D. degrees in crop science. Candidates must demonstrate leadership potential and be enrolled in U.S. institutions, while also being members of CSSA or ASA. Self-nominations are allowed, but former recipients and members of the CSSA Awards Committee are ineligible. This scholarship aims to promote excellence in agronomic education.
Agricultural Crops

Employee Child Care Assistance Partnership Program (ECCAP / Employee Child Care Assistance Partnership Program)

Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services
State/Local Government
Kentucky
Unspecified amount

Employee Child Care Assistance Partnership Program (ECCAP / Employee Child Care Assistance Partnership Program)

House Bill 499 from the 2022 Regular Session established the Employee Child Care Assistance Partnership (ECCAP) Program. Through the program, the cost of child care is shared by you, your employer and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS).

The cabinet's contribution is based on family size and income level, which can significantly reduce child care expenses.

Child Care Services

West Texas Paralegal Association Scholarship

Community Foundation of West Texas
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount
The West Texas Paralegal Association Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of West Texas, aims to support students pursuing an associate's degree in Paralegal Studies at South Plains College. This scholarship is available to legal residents from specific counties who are enrolled in at least 6 credit hours in the program. The foundation awards over 100 scholarships annually, fostering educational opportunities and community development.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Douglas C. LaBrecque Scholarship Fund

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Maine
Unspecified amount
The Douglas C. LaBrecque Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports students from the foster care system in Maine. This renewable scholarship is aimed at those pursuing education at local colleges, universities, trade schools, or other post-secondary programs. The Maine Community Foundation, founded in 1983, is committed to enhancing education and community welfare through strategic giving and investment, awarding over $3 million annually through various scholarship funds.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Amos Bridge Scholarship Fund

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Maine
Unspecified amount
The Amos Bridge Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in Construction Engineering Technology at the University of Maine or similar programs. Founded in 1983, this fund honors Amos D. Bridge, a pioneer in fair labor practices in the construction industry. Each year, the Maine Community Foundation awards over $3 million in scholarships, emphasizing the importance of education for Maine residents across various institutions.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

DCNR Motorized Trails Grants

Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR)
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The DCNR Motorized Trails Grants program supports the development and maintenance of motorized recreational trails in Pennsylvania. Funded by the Federal Highway Administration, the program aims to enhance trail facilities for snowmobiling, ATV riding, and off-highway motorcycle riding. Eligible applicants include government agencies, educational institutions, and non-profits. Grant funding can cover up to 80% of eligible project costs, ensuring safer and more accessible trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
Trail Creation & Maintenance

Chet Jordan Leadership Award

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Maine
Unspecified amount
The Chet Jordan Leadership Award, established in 1995 by the Maine Community Foundation, honors Joseph 'Chet' Jordan's legacy of leadership and community engagement. This scholarship is aimed at graduating seniors from Maine high schools pursuing post-secondary education. It seeks applicants who demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities, independent thinking, and the ability to inspire others. The award emphasizes that true leadership transcends typical roles, focusing instead on extraordinary contributions to the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

AWS Foundation Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation Of Greater Fort Wayne Inc
Private
Adams County, Indiana, Allen County, Indiana +13 more
Unspecified amount
The AWS Foundation Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne, offers financial assistance to licensed special education teachers in Northeast Indiana. This program aims to support educators seeking additional special education certifications while fostering organizational excellence as part of the Let’s Rise! Vision Plan. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in accredited continuing education programs at colleges or universities, enhancing their qualifications to better serve students with special needs.
Special Needs Education Teacher Development & Training

Small Change Grant Program

Park Pride Inc
Private
DeKalb County, Georgia, Fulton County, Georgia
Up to US $2,500
The Park Pride Small Change Grant Program offers funding for community-led improvements in parks, supporting volunteer efforts with awards up to $2,500. The grants aim to enhance engagement among Friends of the Park groups, facilitating innovative projects such as beautification plantings, wayfinding signage, and wildlife habitats. Eligible applicants include registered Friends groups with nonprofit status in Atlanta and surrounding areas, allowing for continuous application until funds are exhausted each fiscal year.
Greening & Beautification Parks & Public Spaces

Kingsley Brown Educational Fund

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Washington County, Maine
Unspecified amount
The Kingsley Brown Educational Fund, established by friends and family of Kingsley Alcid Brown, provides scholarships for Washington County high school graduates pursuing graduate degrees. Through the Maine Community Foundation, which has awarded over $3 million annually since 1984, this fund supports students in accredited programs, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder educational aspirations. The fund embodies a commitment to empowering local talent and fostering educational advancement in Maine.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Sally Stetson Tongren Scholarship Fund for Aroostook County

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Aroostook County, Maine
Unspecified amount
The Sally Stetson Tongren Scholarship Fund for Aroostook County, established by the Maine Community Foundation, provides financial assistance for Aroostook County graduates pursuing post-secondary education. This scholarship is available to high school seniors, current college students, and graduate students, supporting a range of educational paths including undergraduate, graduate, technical, and remedial education. The Maine Community Foundation has been awarding scholarships since 1984, with over $3 million distributed annually.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Sally Stetson Tongren Scholarship Fund for Washington County

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Washington County, Maine
Unspecified amount
The Sally Stetson Tongren Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports Washington County residents pursuing higher education. This scholarship is available to high school seniors, current college students, and graduate students from the area. It aims to provide financial assistance for a variety of post-secondary education paths including undergraduate, graduate, and technical training. With a commitment to educational accessibility, the fund reflects MaineCF's dedication to community development through strategic giving.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

NIAF Gabelli Foundation Scholarship

NATIONAL ITALIAN AMERICAN FOUNDATIONINC
Private
United States
US $2,500 - US $10,000
The NIAF Gabelli Foundation Scholarship supports Italian graduate students from Bocconi University attending Columbia University’s School of Business for their MBA. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher and possess an active NIAF membership, which can be obtained through a parent or grandparent. This scholarship aims to promote Italian heritage and foster academic excellence among the Italian American community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

William F. Miller, MD Postgraduate Education Recognition Award

American Respiratory Care Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $5,000
The William F. Miller, MD Postgraduate Education Recognition Award, offered by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, provides up to $5,000 to support respiratory therapists pursuing advanced degrees. Established in 1992, this award aims to foster education and professional growth in respiratory care. Recipients also receive recognition, airfare, lodging, and congress registration. Eligible applicants must meet specific educational and recommendation requirements, ensuring that deserving candidates are selected for this prestigious award.
Respiratory Diseases & Systems

Jeri Eiserman, RRT Professional Education Research Fellowship

American Respiratory Care Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Jeri Eiserman, RRT Professional Education Research Fellowship, funded by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, supports innovative research in respiratory care and airway management. This fellowship honors Jeri Eiserman's contributions to the field and includes awards for high-quality abstracts presented at the AARC Congress. Selected fellows receive a plaque, travel expenses, and registration, promoting advancements in respiratory health through research and education.
Respiratory Diseases & Systems

NBRC Frederic Helmholz, Jr., MD Educational Research Fund

American Respiratory Care Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $5,000
The NBRC Frederic Helmholz, Jr., MD Educational Research Fund, established by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, supports educational and credentialing research in respiratory care. With an endowment of up to $5,000, this fund encourages submissions of Master’s Theses, Doctoral Dissertations, and complete research proposals from qualified investigators. Award recipients will receive cash, a certificate of recognition, airfare, lodging, and registration for the AARC Congress, promoting advancements in respiratory health.
Respiratory Diseases & Systems

Community Foundation of Faulkner County: Jerry B. Adams Excellence in Philanthropy Award

Arkansas Community Foundation Inc
Private
Faulkner County, Arkansas
Unspecified amount
The Community Foundation of Faulkner County, part of the Arkansas Community Foundation, awards the Jerry B. Adams Excellence in Philanthropy Award to honor individuals dedicated to philanthropy and community improvement. Established in 2001, this initiative recognizes those who embody values of collaboration and strategic giving. Over the years, the foundation has managed substantial assets and granted millions to enhance local programs. Nominations are sought annually to celebrate ongoing community commitment and effective responses to local challenges.
Volunteerism & Philanthropy Nonprofit Growth & Development

Parker B. Francis Respiratory Research Grant

American Respiratory Care Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000
The Parker B. Francis Respiratory Research Grant, offered by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, aims to support innovative research in respiratory care. Grants are available to qualified investigators, with a focus on projects involving respiratory therapists or technicians. Awards typically do not exceed $10,000 annually and are intended to supplement other funding sources. This initiative underscores the foundation's commitment to enhancing respiratory health through research and education.
Respiratory Diseases & Systems

Jerome M. Sullivan Research Fund

American Respiratory Care Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000
The Jerome M. Sullivan Research Fund, established by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, aims to promote original research in respiratory care. Grants, typically up to $10,000, are available for projects involving respiratory therapists or technicians. The fund supports both applied clinical and basic research in respiratory care and cardiopulmonary medicine, fostering advancements in the field. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to enhance respiratory health through research and education.
Respiratory Diseases & Systems

Smallwood Young Investigator Fellowship

American Respiratory Care Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $5,000
The Smallwood Young Investigator Fellowship, established in memory of Craig Smallwood, PhD, RRT, supports emerging researchers in pediatric respiratory therapy. It provides funding up to $5,000 to help candidates gain mentorship, hands-on experience, and essential resources to launch their research projects. Ideal applicants are members of the American Association for Respiratory Care, either at the thesis phase of their education or recently graduated. This initiative aims to foster growth in the field of respiratory health.
Respiratory Diseases & Systems

International Fellowship

American Respiratory Care Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The International Fellowship, offered by the American Respiratory Care Foundation, supports healthcare professionals from abroad to enhance their expertise in respiratory care. Participants will engage in site visits across the U.S., observing practices in hospitals and educational institutions, while attending the AARC Congress. This fellowship covers travel expenses, lodging, and food allowances, promoting global collaboration and knowledge exchange in respiratory health.
Respiratory Diseases & Systems

Grow Wild Grant Program

National Wilderness Stewardship Alliance
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Grow Wild Grant Program, offered by the National Wilderness Stewardship Alliance, aims to establish a wilderness stewardship group for every Wilderness area in the National Wilderness Preservation System. This initiative supports start-up groups and existing organizations seeking to expand their impact. Funded by The David Berolzheimer Foundation, it honors Elaine Dermody, a dedicated wilderness champion. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized nonprofits and those with qualified fiscal sponsors.
Environmental Stewardship

First Presbyterian Church Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
Unspecified amount
The First Presbyterian Church Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides financial support to active members of the church who are full-time students in higher education. Established in 1987, the Foundation manages a $3.8 million endowment and awards over $55,000 annually to Beatrice High School graduates. This scholarship aims to enrich learning opportunities and ensure that deserving students receive the necessary assistance to pursue their educational goals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

First Christian Church Foundation, Inc. Scholarships

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
Up to US $2,000
The First Christian Church Foundation, Inc. Scholarships, managed by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, support graduating seniors from Beatrice High School who are active members of the church. Each scholarship awards up to $2,000 for the first academic year, disbursed in installments of $1,000 per semester or $500 per quarter. Recipients must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 to continue receiving funds. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities for local students.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Fiala, DR. Alan, Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
US $4,000
The Fiala, DR. Alan, Scholarship offers a $4,000 award for Beatrice High School seniors pursuing a career in Natural Sciences. Funded by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, it requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 and submission of a Student Aid Report. Financial need is a key consideration in the selection process. This scholarship aims to support students dedicated to advancing their education in fields like biology, chemistry, and physics.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

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.

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