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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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32,565 Results based on applied filters

Ford Scholars Program

The Ford Family Foundation
Private
California, Oregon
Up to US $40,000
The Ford Opportunity Scholars Program offers scholarships to parents and adult learners over 25 with financial barriers to education in Oregon and Siskiyou County, California. Annually, up to 90 scholarships are awarded, providing up to $40,000 per year based on need and costs. Support includes financial assistance, academic guidance, and a connection to the Ford Family alumni community, aiming to empower students in their pursuit of an associate or bachelor’s degree.
Adult Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Danette Honesto Scholarship Program

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Danette Honesto Scholarship Program, administered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, offers financial assistance to current high school seniors and college students pursuing various degrees in the USA. Applicants must be dependents of Sonterra Medical Management Group employees and meet specific eligibility criteria. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities and is a testament to the Foundation's commitment to community development, having distributed millions in grants and scholarships since 1964.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Micro Grant Program

Cape And Islands United Way Inc
Private
Barnstable County, Massachusetts, Dukes County, Massachusetts +1 more
Up to US $5,000
The Micro Grant Program, offered by Cape and Islands United Way, provides one-time funding of up to $5,000 to support local volunteer projects. With an average grant amount of $2,500, this initiative encourages community engagement on Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, schools, and community organizations focused on volunteerism. Projects can range from local beautification efforts to youth-centered services, fostering a spirit of collaboration and environmental stewardship.
Volunteerism & Philanthropy

Annin Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Gallatin County, Montana
Unspecified amount
The Annin Scholarship at Montana State University offers financial assistance to undergraduate students pursuing a degree in Agriculture. This merit-based scholarship supports those with outstanding academic records and demonstrates financial need. The award amount varies, providing opportunities for students to achieve their educational goals. With a commitment to student success, Montana State University aims to enhance accessibility to quality education through such scholarships.
Agriculture Academic Scholarship Programs

New York State Tribute Foundation Grants

New York State Tribute Foundation
Private
New York
US $500 - US $15,000
The New York State Tribute Foundation Grants support initiatives that enhance understanding of death, dying, and bereavement. By funding educational programs, research, and scholarships, the Foundation aims to improve public awareness and professional practices in these critical areas. Grants range from $500 to $15,000, with an emphasis on projects that align with the Foundation's core values. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations in New York State and individuals pursuing careers in funeral services.
Hospice / End of Life Care

Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Kentucky

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Kentucky
Up to US $1,000,000
The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Kentucky provide crucial funding for communities facing emergencies that threaten safe drinking water access. Eligible applicants, including state and local governments and nonprofit organizations, can receive up to $1 million for water source projects or $150,000 for water transmission line improvements. This program aims to restore and improve water supply systems, particularly in rural areas, enhancing resilience against disasters like droughts and floods.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

CFNJ: George & Yvonne Alkemade Vision Health Grant

Community Foundation Of New Jersey
Private
New Jersey
US $10,000 - US $45,000
The CFNJ: George & Yvonne Alkemade Vision Health Grant aims to support organizations that assist the blind community by alleviating challenges posed by vision loss. This grant focuses on enhancing quality of life and ensuring comfort for individuals affected by such conditions. Eligible organizations must be community-driven and address inequities, while funds cannot be used for animal research. Funding amounts range from $10,000 to $45,000, with one to four grants awarded.
Vision Impairment Care & Services

ASH Giuseppe Bigi Memorial Award

American Society of Hematology Inc
Private
Italy
Up to US $5,000
The ASH Giuseppe Bigi Memorial Award, established in 2015, honors an Italian trainee presenting the highest-scoring abstract related to hematopoiesis at the ASH annual meeting. The recipient, who must be affiliated with an Italian institution, receives a $4,000 award and a $1,000 travel allowance. In the absence of suitable candidates, awards may extend to related research categories. The award is supported by the Giuseppe Bigi Association, honoring Dr. Bigi's contributions to stem cell research.
Hematological Systems

National Partner Society Abstract Achievement Awards

American Society of Hematology Inc
Private
Australia, Italy +3 more
US $2,000
The National Partner Society Abstract Achievement Awards, offered by the American Society of Hematology (ASH) in collaboration with various medical societies, recognize outstanding research projects. Awardees, including trainees from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Italy, receive a $2,000 grant and complimentary registration to the ASH annual meeting. This prestigious program promotes excellence in hematology research and encourages young professionals in the field.
Hematological Systems

CITGO Distinguished Scholars Program

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
US $5,000
The CITGO Distinguished Scholars Program, offered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, is designed for junior high school students in the Alief, Houston, and Spring Branch ISDs. This program supports students planning to enroll in a 2- or 4-year college with funding for tuition, fees, and books. A cumulative GPA of 2.5 is required, and awards are granted to 40 students, empowering them to pursue higher education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Carvajal Educational Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,000
The Carvajal Educational Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, aims to support current high school seniors from specified Texas counties in their pursuit of higher education. With a focus on Judeo-Christian institutions, this scholarship provides financial assistance for tuition, fees, and books, promoting academic achievement with a minimum GPA requirement of 2.5. Established to foster educational opportunities, the fund emphasizes the importance of community impact and leadership.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

CHHE Community Grant Program

Center for Human Health and the Environment (CHHE)
State/Local Government
North Carolina
Up to US $8,000
The CHHE Community Grant Program provides annual funding for community groups and educators to tackle environmental health issues. Grants of up to $8,000 support research, data analysis, and community engagement efforts. Preference is given to projects aligned with CHHE research. Over $200,000 has been awarded to date, fostering local capacity-building. Eligible applicants include secondary school educators and nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, with applications due mid to late September.
Environmental Health

August and Mary Sobotka Memorial Agriculture Award

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Gallatin County, Montana
Unspecified amount
The August and Mary Sobotka Memorial Agriculture Award, offered by Montana State University, supports undergraduate students pursuing a degree in agriculture. This merit-based award considers various factors, including residency preferences for students from specific counties in Montana. The goal is to foster educational opportunities in agriculture, ensuring that talented individuals have access to financial support for their academic endeavors.
Agriculture Academic Scholarship Programs

Rural Business Development Grants in Minnesota

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Minnesota
US $100,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in Minnesota aim to provide essential technical assistance and training for small rural businesses with fewer than 50 new workers and under $1 million in gross revenue. Funding is available for projects benefiting rural areas, focusing on enhancing economic development, offering training, and supporting community initiatives. With no maximum grant amount, priority is given to smaller funding requests, encouraging innovative projects that uplift rural economies.
Rural Development

The Robert Sydney Needham Foundation Grant

Robert Sydney Needham Fdn Main
Private
New Jersey
Up to US $10,000
The Robert Sydney Needham Foundation Grant, established in memory of Robert Sydney Needham, supports New Jersey colleges and universities in providing scholarships to deserving students. Eligible candidates must be full-time sophomores, juniors, or seniors with a GPA of 3.3 or higher, demonstrating community involvement and financial need. The grant aims to honor Mr. Needham's legacy by fostering educational opportunities for promising students in the state.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

The Middlebury Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $1,000 - US $4,000
The Middlebury Fund, established in 1942 by Austin L. Adams, provides scholarships for students from Middlebury, CT. Administered by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, it aims to support worthy and intelligent young individuals with financial need. Each year, the fund awards between 5 to 10 scholarships, helping local students pursue higher education opportunities. With a strong legacy since 1945, the Hartford Foundation has invested nearly $30 million in Connecticut college-bound students.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

NASPGHAN Foundation/CPNP Nutrition Research Grant

North American Society For Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition
Association/Society
Canada, Mexico +1 more
US $500 - US $5,000
The NASPGHAN Foundation offers a one-year grant to pediatric dietitians aimed at enhancing nutrition care for children with nutritional disorders. Grants ranging from $500 to $5000 will be awarded, with funding distributed in December 2025. Applicants must be Registered Dietitians, CPNP members in good standing, and have a sustained interest in pediatric nutrition. Recipients are required to provide a financial statement and present findings at the 2027 CPNP annual symposium.
Nutrition & Healthy Eating

Sylvia Parkinson Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $2,000 - US $4,000
The Sylvia Parkinson Fund, established in 1975, supports medical students at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine who plan to practice in the Hartford area. Administered by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, this fund awards 4 to 8 scholarships annually, contributing to the education of deserving students pursuing careers in medicine. The Hartford Foundation has a long-standing commitment to supporting higher education, having awarded nearly $30 million since 1945.
Medical Education & Professional Training Academic Scholarship Programs

Stanley D. and Hinda N. Fisher Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $2,500 - US $3,500
The Stanley D. and Hinda N. Fisher Scholarship Fund, established by the Fisher Family Foundation, supports local students from the Greater Hartford area pursuing a four-year college degree. As part of the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving's Scholarship Program, it aims to foster academic achievement and community involvement. Since 1945, the program has awarded nearly $30 million in scholarships to help students access higher education opportunities. One award is available for eligible candidates.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

South Asian Bar Association Endowed Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $2,500 - US $3,500
The South Asian Bar Association Endowed Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports summer public interest fellowships for law students of South Asian descent or those committed to serving the South Asian community. Eligible applicants must be enrolled at select law schools and demonstrate financial need. This initiative enhances opportunities for underrepresented students while fostering community engagement and legal advocacy within the South Asian community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Ronald Joseph Mathis Scholarship Fund

Boreal Waters Community Foundation
Private
Douglas County, Wisconsin
Up to US $10,000
The Ronald Joseph Mathis Scholarship Fund offers scholarships to future artists attending the University of Wisconsin-Superior, honoring the legacy of Ronald Joseph Mathis. With an award range of $2,500 annually for up to four years, this fund supports students pursuing a bachelor's degree in the Visual Arts Department, emphasizing financial need and academic achievement within the Duluth Superior Area.
Visual Arts Academic Scholarship Programs

Cottrell Scholar Award

Research Corporation
Private
Canada, United States
US $120,000
The Cottrell Scholar Award supports early career faculty at U.S. and Canadian research universities, fostering innovative research and teaching in Chemistry, Physics, and Astronomy. This prestigious recognition emphasizes the importance of impactful research plans and educational strategies, aiming to enhance undergraduate and graduate science education. The award also encourages academic citizenship and collaboration within institutions, providing funding for three-year projects up to $120,000, thereby promoting excellence in both research and education.
Chemistry Physics Astronomy & Astrophysics

Shyaam Bachman Memorial Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $1,500 - US $2,000
The Shyaam Bachman Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, honors a dedicated science teacher and supports Black/African American males from the Greater Hartford area. This fund assists students with financial need who are graduating high school and planning to pursue a degree in a science-related field. With a history of awarding nearly $30 million in scholarships since 1945, the foundation continues to empower local students in their educational journeys.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

MFE: Annual Grant Program

MUSIC FOR EVERYONE
Private
Lancaster County, Pennsylvania
US $500 - US $5,000
Music for Everyone's Annual Grant Program supports projects that enhance access to music for underserved populations. Grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 aim to foster community engagement through musical education. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and schools serving Lancaster County, PA. Special consideration is given to initiatives that benefit school music programs. The program encourages partial funding to improve the chances of success in grant applications, ensuring impactful use of resources.
Music

Samuel A. Roth Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $2,000 - US $2,800
The Samuel A. Roth Scholarship Fund, established by friends and family to honor Mr. Roth's tenure as Superintendent of Schools in East Haddam, awards scholarships to seniors from Griswold, Weaver, and Nathan Hale-Ray high schools. Since 1945, the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving has facilitated this program, granting nearly $30 million to students pursuing higher education. This scholarship emphasizes well-rounded candidates who possess an interest in athletics and academic dedication.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Richard and M. Terrye Blackstone Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $2,500
The Richard and M. Terrye Blackstone Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports East Hartford students pursuing degrees in the Arts, Political Science, or Education. This fund honors Richard and M. Terrye Blackstone and emphasizes the importance of community service. Eligible candidates must demonstrate academic excellence and involvement in extracurricular activities. Annually, 1 to 2 scholarships are awarded, contributing to the Foundation's mission of enhancing educational opportunities since 1945.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

HRA: Deborah Munroe Noonan Memorial Research Fund Grant

Health Resources in Action
Private
Bristol County, Massachusetts, Essex County, Massachusetts +4 more
Up to US $160,000
The HRA: Deborah Munroe Noonan Memorial Research Fund Grant, established in 1947, offers up to $160,000 in two-year grants to enhance the lives of children and adolescents with disabilities. Sponsored by Health Resources in Action, the grant supports innovative research and evaluation projects focused on health equity and community engagement in the Greater Boston area. This initiative fosters collaborative efforts between nonprofits and academic institutions to address the unique challenges faced by this vulnerable population.
Children With Disabilities

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.

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