Upcoming Webinar
Instrumentl Fall Launch: Your Grant Operating System Has Leveled Up.
Wed, Nov 4 @ 2PM ET

Skip to main content
Main content

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

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

Skip the search.

Get matched with grants that actually fit.

Smart recommendations based on your profile — in minutes.

Find me grants

Filters

32,565 Results based on applied filters

PLTW Launch- New Program ( Indiana)

Project Lead the Way inc.
Private
Indiana
Up to US $20,000
The PLTW Launch program in Indiana offers grants of $20,000 to support the implementation of new PLTW programs in schools for the 2026-2027 academic year. Grantees must provide at least one PLTW Launch module in the first year and an additional module in the following year. Eligible applicants include public, private, and charter schools in Indiana. Funding can cover participation fees, necessary equipment, and training costs, while excluding salaries and other specified expenses.
Curriculum Development Teacher Development & Training STEM / STEAM Education

OjO-Dor Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Oneida County, Wisconsin
US $1,000
The OjO-Dor Scholarship offers post-secondary educational support to deserving high school seniors from the Lakeland School District in Minocqua, Wisconsin. With over $300,000 allocated across more than 200 scholarships, the program recognizes academic achievement, financial need, future potential, and leadership capabilities. Students may be invited for interviews during the selection process, fostering opportunities for local youth to pursue higher education and enhance their future prospects.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

NJCCR: Predoctoral Fellowship Grants

State of New Jersey Department of Health
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Up to US $100,000
The NJCCR Predoctoral Fellowship Grants aim to attract and retain promising scientists focused on cancer research in New Jersey. Offering up to $100,000 for two years, these grants support innovative projects in cancer causes, prevention, and treatment. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents, and enrolled in a relevant graduate program. This initiative promotes significant research contributions while addressing health disparities and enhancing community health outcomes in New Jersey.
Cancer / Oncology

Pittsfield Education Enrichment Fund

The Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation
Private
Berkshire County, Massachusetts
US $500 - US $5,000
The Pittsfield Education Enrichment Fund aims to enhance the educational experience of students and teachers in the Pittsfield School District. With grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, it supports non-arts and arts integration projects, respectively. Eligible recipients include students, teachers, and community members, fostering initiatives like independent studies and extra-curricular activities. This fund prioritizes proposals that leverage volunteer efforts and additional support, ensuring that educational excellence is maintained across the district.
Academic Success & Enrichment Teacher Development & Training

Carol Hoops Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northcentral Wisconsin Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Carol Hoops Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northcentral Wisconsin Scholarship provides essential financial support to graduating seniors, GED graduates, and both traditional and non-traditional college students from Northcentral Wisconsin. This scholarship aims to empower students involved with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program for at least six months, helping them pursue their educational and career aspirations. With over $300,000 in scholarships awarded annually, the initiative significantly enhances the quality of life in the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

AROW Global Corporation Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Up to US $1,500
The AROW Global Corporation Scholarship, established in 2022, provides up to $1,500 for high school seniors from central Wisconsin. This scholarship supports students who plan to attend accredited colleges, universities, or technical schools in any field. A total of over $300,000 in scholarships will be awarded to more than 200 students through the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, enhancing educational opportunities and community growth.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Gary & Mary Malmquist Scholarship

St. Croix Valley Foundation
Private
Minnesota
Up to US $20,000
The Gary & Mary Malmquist Scholarship, administered by the St. Croix Valley Foundation, offers $20,000 ($5,000 annually for four years) to a graduating senior from Stillwater Area High School with a minimum GPA of 3.0. The scholarship prioritizes applicants demonstrating strong financial need and is aimed at supporting students attending public colleges in Minnesota or Wisconsin. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in local communities.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

TKoster’s Charitable Innovated Health Care Award

American College Health Foundation
Corporate
United States
Up to US $2,500
The TKoster’s Charitable Innovated Health Care Award, established by Teresa Koster, aims to enhance students' access to quality health care. With a funding amount of $3,500, this award supports innovative practices in student health centers. It addresses critical areas such as understanding health care needs, improving service delivery, and leveraging technology. Eligible applicants include members of the American College Health Association, encouraged to demonstrate partnerships and financial support in their proposals.
Health Care Access & Delivery School Health

Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program (TRDRP): Postdoctoral Award

Regents Of The University Of California, Office Of The President
Private
California
Unspecified amount
The Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program (TRDRP) offers a Postdoctoral Award aimed at supporting innovative research focused on reducing tobacco use and diseases. This program encourages a minimum 75% time commitment from postdoctoral trainees, who must submit original research proposals with mentor guidance. Awards provide up to $70,000 annually for three years, including a fixed institutional allowance for various research-related expenses. This initiative enhances the career development of researchers dedicated to tobacco-related public health issues.
Smoking

Grassroots Voices

Vital Voices Global Partnership Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
Grassroots Voices, led by Vital Voices Global Partnership Inc, empowers young women aged 18-25 in the U.S. engaged in grassroots justice work. This program offers a unique opportunity to join a supportive cohort, travel to Washington, D.C., and engage with influential women leaders. Participants will enhance their skills and amplify their impact on critical issues like social inequity and reproductive justice, fostering a community of changemakers dedicated to transforming their lives and the world.
Women & Girl Services Civic Leadership Development

Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program (TRDRP): Predoctoral Award

Regents Of The University Of California, Office Of The President
Private
California
Unspecified amount
The Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program (TRDRP) offers a Predoctoral Award aimed at supporting innovative, hypothesis-driven research to combat tobacco-related diseases. With a maximum funding of $60,000 per year for up to three years, this program encourages predoctoral students to develop their research skills under mentorship. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in a doctoral program and commit significant time to their research. This opportunity fosters the next generation of independent researchers in tobacco control and public health.
Smoking

Illuminate the Arts Grant: Small Creative Enterprises

Creative Philadelphia (City of Philadelphia - Office of the Mayor)
State/Local Government
Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
US $5,000 - US $7,000
The Illuminate the Arts Grant (ITAG) aims to uplift Philadelphia's creative sector by distributing $1.5 million to individual artists and small creative enterprises with budgets under $500,000. This initiative, established by the Philadelphia City Council in 2021, supports artists from historically underfunded communities, enhancing access to the arts in marginalized neighborhoods. Administered by Creative Philadelphia, ITAG fosters cultural vibrancy and resilience post-COVID-19, ensuring equitable distribution of funds to strengthen the city's artistic landscape.
Media Arts Arts / Culture Access & Participation

FPTR: Acute Care Research Grant

Foundation for Physical Therapy Research
Private
United States
US $80,000
The FPTR: Acute Care Research Grant aims to support high-quality research relevant to acute care physical therapy practice. With a total funding of $80,000, this grant encourages innovative studies that can enhance the understanding and application of physical therapy methods. The Foundation for Physical Therapy Research prioritizes projects that address pressing clinical questions and contribute to the evidence base for effective practices while promoting equity in health care.
Physical Therapy

Northeastern Pennsylvania Health Care Foundation: Careers in Care Nursing Scholarship

Scranton Area Foundation
Private
Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Northeastern Pennsylvania Health Care Foundation established the Careers in Care Nursing Scholarship in 2021, providing $200,000 to support nursing education in Lackawanna, Luzerne, and Wyoming Counties. This program aims to enhance the nursing workforce by offering financial assistance to students and healthcare workers pursuing various nursing credentials, with a commitment to practice in the Northeastern Pennsylvania region.
Nursing

Pilot Community-Partnered Participatory Research Award (Pilot CPPRA)

Regents Of The University Of California, Office Of The President
Private
California
Up to US $1,000,000
The Pilot Community-Partnered Participatory Research Award (Pilot CPPRA) aims to support collaborative research addressing tobacco-related health disparities. With a funding cap of $500,000 per year for up to two years, this award encourages partnerships between community and academic researchers. Projects should focus on enhancing the feasibility of methods for interventions, developing collaborative relationships, and collecting preliminary data to improve future funding opportunities. This initiative fosters community engagement in tobacco research.
Smoking

Full Community-Partnered Participatory Research Award (Full CPPRA)

Regents Of The University Of California, Office Of The President
Private
California
Up to US $1,800,000
The Full Community-Partnered Participatory Research Award (Full CPPRA) supports research targeting tobacco-related health disparities through community-academic partnerships. With a maximum award of $600,000 per year for up to three years, this funding encourages the development and testing of tobacco prevention interventions. Applicants must include both a Community Co-PI and an Academic Co-PI from California-based institutions, fostering collaboration to enhance research efficacy and community impact.
Smoking

Civil Money Penalty Fund Program

Oklahoma State Department of Health
State/Local Government
Oklahoma
Unspecified amount
The Civil Money Penalty Fund Program, established by the Oklahoma State Department of Health, aims to enhance the quality of care in nursing facilities through projects funded by penalties collected from non-compliant nursing homes. This program supports various evidence-based practices and initiatives that focus on improving residents' health and wellbeing. Eligible organizations, including skilled nursing facilities, can apply for funding to implement innovative solutions that promote quality of life for nursing home residents.
Residential Care & Nursing Homes

Wellness Grants for Leaders and Frontline Workers

The Lumpkin Family Foundation
Private
Champaign County, Illinois, Clark County, Illinois +26 more
Up to US $10,000
The Lumpkin Family Foundation has launched the Wellness Grants for Leaders and Frontline Workers to combat burnout in nonprofit organizations. This program offers up to $2,500 for mental wellness initiatives and up to $10,000 for sabbatical leave for senior leaders. Eligible organizations must have received LFF funding within the last three years and adhere to specific guidelines. The foundation prioritizes the mental health of frontline workers to ensure sustainable community service.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases

Tennis Venue Services: Facility Funding

United States Tennis Association Incorporated
Corporate
United States
Unspecified amount
The USTA's Tennis Venue Services provides funding for tennis facilities, emphasizing community and growth. Grants are available for various projects, including basic improvements, resurfacing, and new constructions. With funding up to $55,000 based on project type, the program supports collegiate organizations in enhancing their facilities. This initiative promotes healthy competition and camaraderie among players, ensuring tennis remains accessible and well-equipped for all enthusiasts.
Tennis

Cancer Research & Prevention Grant

UNICO Foundation Inc
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The UNICO Foundation Inc. offers the Cancer Research & Prevention Grant to support vital research projects addressing various types of cancer, including colon, breast, and prostate cancer. Established in 1962, this non-profit organization aims to enhance lives through charitable contributions and educational initiatives. Grants are exclusively for direct research and preventive measures, ensuring that all funds are utilized effectively. This initiative reflects UNICO's commitment to combating cancer and its impact on individuals and families across the United States.
Cancer / Oncology

John E. Blair Fund for the Visually Impaired Grant

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut, Middlesex County, Connecticut +1 more
US $1,000 - US $30,000
The John E. Blair Fund for the Visually Impaired Grant is a charitable endowment aimed at supporting organizations that assist visually impaired individuals in the Greater Hartford Region. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $40,000 are available depending on project scope. Eligibility includes nonprofit organizations and those partnering with fiscal sponsors. The foundation prioritizes effective governance and initiatives that address equity and social mobility disparities in the community.
Vision Impairment Care & Services

Peggy Lee Songwriter Award

Ascap Foundation
Private
District of Columbia, Puerto Rico +1 more
US $2,500
The Peggy Lee Songwriter Award, presented by the ASCAP Foundation, honors lyricists of original songs who exhibit a sophisticated command of language and demonstrate significant talent. This prestigious award recognizes contributions to jazz and popular music, with a prize of $2,500 shared among co-writers. Eligible entrants must be U.S. citizens or residents, at least 18 years old, and ASCAP members in good standing. This award celebrates the legacy of Peggy Lee, a pioneering figure in music.
Music

Sammy Cahn Award

Ascap Foundation
Private
District of Columbia, Puerto Rico +1 more
US $5,000
The Sammy Cahn Award, presented by The ASCAP Foundation, honors exceptional lyric-writing talent among songwriters of original songs. Established in 1995 to commemorate Sammy Cahn's legacy, the award offers a $5,000 prize to recipients. Eligible entrants include ASCAP writer members in good standing or independent songwriters. Submissions are judged anonymously based on lyric quality and overall craft, ensuring the recognition of artistic excellence within the songwriting community.
Music

Leiber & Stoller Scholarship for Songwriters

Ascap Foundation
Private
District of Columbia, Puerto Rico +1 more
Up to US $10,000
The Leiber & Stoller Music Scholarship, funded by The ASCAP Foundation, offers $2,500 annually for four years to high school seniors pursuing a music major. Aspiring songwriters, musicians, and vocalists are encouraged to apply. The selection process evaluates music and lyric writing, overall craftsmanship, and artistry. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens or residents and meet specific criteria. The scholarship is aimed at nurturing the next generation of music creators, ensuring their educational journey is supported.
Music

Michael Masser Scholarship

Ascap Foundation
Private
District of Columbia, Puerto Rico +1 more
Up to US $3,000
The Michael Masser Scholarship, established by the late composer Michael Masser, supports talented students in music. It offers $3,000 to recipients for educational advancement, with nominations made by ASCAP representatives. Eligible nominees must demonstrate exceptional talent in music composition or performance and be entering a collegiate music program. This scholarship aims to foster the next generation of music creators and enrich the arts community through financial assistance.
Music

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Indiana

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Indiana
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Indiana support eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that threaten safe drinking water availability. The program, managed by USDA Rural Development, allows funding for water transmission lines and sources, addressing issues from natural disasters such as floods, droughts, and chemical spills. By improving access to clean water, the initiative enhances public health and environmental sustainability in rural areas.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Bascom Little Fund Grant

Bascom Little Fund
Private
Ashland County, Ohio, Ashtabula County, Ohio +14 more
Unspecified amount
The Bascom Little Fund Grant supports Northeast Ohio composers by funding the performance and recording of contemporary music. Established in memory of architect Bascom Little, the fund aims to promote new works through concerts and publications. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities, and composers must reside in Northeast Ohio. The fund does not support the commission of new works or operating expenses. Special consideration is given to those with additional financial backing.
Music

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.

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.