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

United Nations Association of Connecticut (For Greater Hartford) Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $1,000 - US $1,500
The United Nations Association of Connecticut Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports students with financial need who are interested in international issues and foreign language studies. Since 1945, the program has awarded nearly $30 million to students pursuing higher education. This scholarship specifically targets those who have demonstrated academic excellence and participation in Model UN or similar programs, offering one award annually to eligible applicants from the Greater Hartford region.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

NASPGHAN IBD Young Investigator Award - Career Development Awards

Crohns And Colitis Foundation Inc
Private
United States
US $102,500 - US $307,500
The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation/NASPGHAN IBD Young Investigator Award supports early-career researchers in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This three-year grant offers mentorship and funding up to $60,000 annually, plus additional support for research-related expenses. Eligible applicants must hold an MD or PhD, demonstrate relevant research experience, and commit at least 65% of their time to the project. The award also facilitates access to IBD Plexus resources, enhancing research capabilities in the field.
Digestive System Health & Diseases

Henry Hanff Fellowship Award

Ao North America Inc
Private
Europe, North America
Up to US $5,900
The Henry Hanff Fellowship Award offers a unique opportunity for practicing North American trauma surgeons to enhance their skills through a short-term fellowship at a trauma clinic in North America or Europe. Sponsored by AO North America, the fellowship lasts four to eight weeks and covers airfare and a stipend for living expenses, with a total award not exceeding $5,900. Participants must submit a report on their experience for publication, enhancing professional development and collaboration.
Orthopedics Medical Education & Professional Training

Town and County Club Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
Up to US $5,000
The Town and County Club Fund, established by members of the Town and County Club in Hartford, aims to support adult women pursuing higher education. This initiative is part of the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving's Scholarship Program, which has granted nearly $30 million since 1945. Eligible applicants must be female, 25 years or older, residents of the Hartford area, and enrolled in specific Connecticut colleges with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Tim and Gerri Sullivan Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $3,000
The Tim and Gerri Sullivan Scholarship Fund, administered by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, provides financial support to graduating high school seniors from Hartford attending public schools in Connecticut. This scholarship aims to assist students entering 2-year, 4-year, or vocational colleges on a full-time basis, demonstrating academic achievement and financial need. With a history of over $30 million awarded since 1945, this fund continues to empower local students towards higher education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

The Walter S. Kapala Scholarship Trust

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $1,500
The Walter S. Kapala Scholarship Trust, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, offers financial support to high-achieving students from public high schools in Hartford or West Hartford. Since 1945, the foundation has awarded nearly $30 million in scholarships, assisting local students in pursuing higher education. This scholarship aims to help 1 to 2 deserving students each year who require financial assistance to achieve their academic goals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

City of Berkeley: Community Festivals Grant

City of Berkeley
State/Local Government
Alameda County, California
Up to US $7,000
The City of Berkeley's Community Festivals Grant supports diverse cultural events that engage the community and enhance Berkeley's reputation as a vibrant destination. Grants up to $7,000 are available for one-time festivals that are free and accessible to the public. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and artist collectives. The grant encourages projects that celebrate cultural heritage and foster community involvement, while ineligible costs include administrative expenses and ongoing programming.
Art Festivals Community Culture & Heritage

Martha Lee Cain Tranby Music Enrichment Fund

Martha Lee Cain Tranby Music Enrichment Fund
Association/Society
Bates County, Missouri, Callaway County, Missouri +13 more
Up to US $5,000
The Martha Lee Cain Tranby Music Enrichment Fund provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in the greater Kansas City area, aimed at enhancing local music and cultural experiences. Grants, ranging from $500 to $5,000, support public performances and specific projects, not exceeding 25% of an organization's budget. The Fund favors applications that reach diverse audiences and demonstrate high-quality performances. It does not fund capital campaigns, construction, or music education primarily focused on workshops.
Music

Enhancing Mechanistic Research on Precision Probiotic Therapies (R61/R33 Clinical Trial Optional)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $1,750,000
This funding opportunity aims to foster innovative mechanistic research on precision probiotic therapies, utilizing a phased R61/R33 award mechanism. The goal is to identify and understand individual variations influencing probiotic responses, thereby enhancing clinical outcomes. The R61 phase focuses on uncovering unique biological patterns over two years, while the R33 phase applies findings to improve probiotic responsiveness through rigorous studies. Ultimately, this initiative seeks to overcome barriers in personalized probiotic interventions.
Microbiomes

Wausau Area H.O.P.E. Hmong Women Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Marathon County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Wausau Area H.O.P.E. Hmong Women Scholarship, established by the H.O.P.E. Women, aims to support deserving Hmong women from the greater Wausau area. This scholarship recognizes academic excellence, personal integrity, and community involvement. Eligible candidates include high school seniors and college students who maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher and demonstrate a commitment to bettering their community. The scholarship is part of the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin's broader mission to enhance local quality of life.
Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

Walter (Coke) Fehl Hockey Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Marathon County, Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Walter (Coke) Fehl Hockey Scholarship honors the legacy of Coke Fehl, supporting graduating high school hockey players from the greater Wausau area. This scholarship aims to recognize students who have positively influenced the sport and demonstrated teamwork and strong work ethic. It is part of a larger effort by the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, which administers over 125 endowed scholarship funds, providing over $300,000 in scholarships annually to students across various educational levels.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Phyllis Kosiorek Cordner and Roy R. Cordner Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $1,000 - US $2,000
The Phyllis Kosiorek Cordner and Roy R. Cordner Scholarship Fund, established by Roy Cordner in memory of his wife, supports 3-5 graduating high school seniors from Rockville, Manchester, and East Catholic High Schools in Connecticut. The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving administers this fund, offering financial assistance to students attending accredited colleges in the U.S. This initiative has contributed significantly to the educational pursuits of local students since its inception.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

GAR Foundation: Educator Initiative Grant

Gar Foundation
Private
Summit County, Ohio
Up to US $10,000
The GAR Foundation's Educator Initiative Grant (EIG) supports innovative classroom projects in Summit County, enhancing teaching and learning since 2004. Grants range from $5,000 for individual classroom improvements to $10,000 for projects affecting multiple classrooms or departments. The EIG program encourages educators to develop impactful initiatives that foster student engagement and achievement. However, it does not fund stipends, furniture, standard supplies, or materials unrelated to curricular goals, ensuring that investments directly benefit educational outcomes.
Education - K through 12 Teacher Development & Training

Peter T. Steinwedell Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $2,000 - US $5,000
The Peter T. Steinwedell Scholarship Fund, established by Kathy Steinwedell, honors her late husband and supports graduate students in education. Funded by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, this scholarship targets residents of Greater Hartford attending programs at local universities. With a long history of awarding scholarships, the fund aims to empower future educators by providing financial assistance to those committed to teaching careers and academic excellence.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Muriel S. and Gordon A. Wilson Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $1,500 - US $5,000
The Muriel S. and Gordon A. Wilson Scholarship Fund, established by dedicated church members, supports college scholarships for students from the Center Congregational Church in Manchester, CT, or local residents. Managed by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, which has awarded nearly $30 million in scholarships since 1945, this fund aims to assist students pursuing higher education at accredited institutions. With 1 to 10 awards available, it continues to foster educational opportunities in the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Michael J. Vanderlaan Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $5,000
The Michael J. Vanderlaan Scholarship Fund, managed by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports students majoring in Accounting or Finance at public four-year colleges in Connecticut. Established in 1945, this fund aims to assist junior and senior students from the Greater Hartford region who demonstrate financial need and academic potential, contributing to their pursuit of higher education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

The Met: Eugene V. Thaw Fellowship for Collections Cataloguing

Metropolitan Museum Of Art
Private
New York County, New York
Up to US $53,000
The Met's Eugene V. Thaw Fellowship for Collections Cataloguing offers a unique opportunity for scholars to engage in the cataloguing of European paintings. This 12-month fellowship trains emerging museum professionals in critical research and documentation practices essential for art history. With a focus on personal development within collections cataloguing, fellows gain valuable experience while contributing to the museum's mission of connecting people with art. A salary of $47,000 and additional benefits support this enriching academic endeavor.
European Art

Meyer-Kimball Memorial Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $3,000
The Meyer-Kimball Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by Harry and Mary Meyer in memory of Mabel Meyer and Alberta Kimball, supports students from the Greater Hartford area pursuing a four-year college degree. Administered by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, this fund exemplifies a commitment to education and aims to empower local youth by providing essential financial assistance. Since its inception, the fund has aimed to honor the legacy of lifelong learning and generosity, impacting future generations.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Mari Shinoda Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $2,000 - US $2,500
The Mari Shinoda Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports local students from the Greater Hartford area who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need. This scholarship targets those pursuing careers in helping professions such as social work and public health. With a history of nearly $30 million awarded, the program continues to empower students in their pursuit of higher education, fostering community commitment and professional ambition.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Mae Passini and Juliet Anderson Memorial Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $1,000 - US $2,000
The Mae Passini and Juliet Anderson Memorial Fund, established by Frank T. Passini, honors his wife and step-daughter, both dedicated to nursing. This scholarship supports nurses pursuing graduate studies, prioritizing Simsbury residents. Since 1945, the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving has awarded nearly $30 million in scholarships, aiding local students in their quest for higher education. With a commitment to educational advancement, this fund exemplifies community support and the importance of healthcare professionals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Volunteer Fire Capacity (VFC) Program

California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE)
State/Local Government
California
US $500 - US $20,000
The Volunteer Fire Capacity (VFC) Program offers crucial funding to California's rural fire departments for essential firefighting equipment and training. This federally funded initiative supports local agencies in acquiring personal protective equipment and improving training capabilities to ensure safety and compliance with national standards. With grant awards ranging from $500 to $20,000, the program emphasizes a dollar-for-dollar match requirement, allowing departments to enhance their firefighting resources and effectiveness in serving communities with populations of 10,000 or less.
Firefighting & Fire Prevention

Linda Starikov Singer Memorial Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $1,500 - US $2,000
The Linda Starikov Singer Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports students pursuing careers in musical theater and the performing arts. This scholarship is aimed at high school seniors in the Greater Hartford area who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need. With a legacy dating back to 1945, the Hartford Foundation has awarded millions in scholarships to empower local students in their educational pursuits.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Lebbeus F. Bissell Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $4,000
The Lebbeus F. Bissell Scholarship Fund, established in 1971 by Lebbeus F. Bissell, offers scholarships to graduating high school seniors from Rockville, Ellington, and Tolland, Connecticut. Managed by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, which has awarded nearly $30 million since 1945, this fund aims to support local students in their pursuit of higher education. Typically, 3-4 awards are granted annually, focusing on those with financial need and strong community involvement.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

MCSF- Undergraduate & Associate Degree Scholarship

Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,500 - US $10,000
The MCSF- Undergraduate & Associate Degree Scholarship is designed to support the children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen pursuing undergraduate education. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.00. This scholarship can cover various educational expenses such as tuition, books, and transportation. It is an excellent opportunity for those who meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to furthering their education, while honoring the legacy of service in the Marine Corps.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Laurel M. Cohn Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $5,000
The Laurel M. Cohn Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, supports scholarships for graduating high school seniors in the Greater Hartford area. Candidates must pursue a degree in business, economics, or a related field at an accredited four-year institution. With a history of awarding nearly $30 million in scholarships since 1945, this fund aims to empower motivated students with financial needs to achieve their educational goals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

KJ Foster Memorial Scholarship Fund

Greater Hartford Gives Foundation
Private
Hartford County, Connecticut
US $1,000 - US $1,500
The KJ Foster Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, honors Kerry "KJ" Foster, Jr., a promising student lost to gang violence. The scholarship supports high school graduates from the Greater Hartford region who demonstrate academic potential, financial need, and community involvement. Since 1945, the Hartford Foundation has awarded nearly $30 million in scholarships, helping local students pursue higher education and achieve their academic goals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Main Grants Scheme: Rebuilding Biodiversity

Biffa Award
Corporate
United Kingdom
£10,000 - £75,000
The Biffa Award's Main Grants Scheme focuses on Rebuilding Biodiversity, supporting projects that enhance habitats for various plant and animal species. Eligible initiatives include habitat improvements, tree surgery, and the purchase of flora, aimed at fostering public engagement and adaptation to climate challenges. Applications can be submitted anytime, with board meetings held quarterly to review proposals, ensuring timely funding decisions for impactful community projects.
Environmental Conservation

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.