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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

Scholarships and Pathways in Neuroscience Partnership

Cedars Sinai Medical Care Foundation
Private
Los Angeles County, California
Up to US $10,000
The Scholarships and Pathways in Neuroscience Partnership at Cedars-Sinai aims to enhance diversity in neuroscience by providing underrepresented students hands-on experience in a leading medical facility. Participants will engage in various research areas, including Alzheimer's and gene therapy, while receiving financial support for housing and relocation. This unique opportunity fosters networking and mentorship, preparing scholars for future success in the field of neuroscience.
Academic Success & Enrichment Academic Scholarship Programs

Junior League Of Collin County Agency Assistance Fund

Junior League Of Collin County
Private
Collin County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The Junior League of Collin County Agency Assistance Fund supports local non-profits and government agencies in Collin County by providing financial assistance for short-term program support and emergency needs. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and established for at least two years. The fund prioritizes requests addressing critical human needs and those from agencies that have not previously received assistance this fiscal year, fostering community impact through collaboration and volunteerism.
Basic Human Needs Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid

Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida: Wildlife Foundation of Florida

Fish & Wildlife Foundation Of Florida Inc
Private
Florida
US $1,000 - US $75,000
The Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida supports conservation and sustainable enjoyment of Florida's lands and wildlife. With over $66 million awarded since 1994, the Foundation focuses on public hunting, safety programs, and shooting sports. Grants range from $1,000 to $75,000, with a preference for matching funds. Eligible applicants include government agencies, educational institutions, and non-profits. The Foundation may also consider for-profit proposals at its discretion.
Sport Shooting

The Center: Leonard A. Lauder Visiting Senior Fellowships

National Gallery of Art
Private
District of Columbia
US $12,500
The Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts at the National Gallery offers Leonard A. Lauder Visiting Senior Fellowships for scholars engaged in research on the history and criticism of visual arts. Fellowships support full-time research and include access to extensive resources, including the National Gallery and Library of Congress. Applicants should have held a PhD for at least five years and demonstrate proficiency in two languages. The program encourages applications from historically marginalized fields.
Visual Arts Art History

Courtney S. Turner Charitable Trust Grant

Courtney S Turner Charitable Trust
Private
Atchison County, Kansas
Unspecified amount
The Courtney S. Turner Charitable Trust, established in 1978, supports public charitable and educational initiatives in the Atchison, Kansas community. Founded by Courtney S. Turner, a prominent local figure, the trust focuses on community improvement, education, health, and human services. It primarily funds 501(c)(3) organizations for specific projects with a one-year grant duration, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on the community.
Education Health & Medicine Human & Social Services +1 more

The Center: Paul Mellon Visiting Senior Fellowships

National Gallery of Art
Private
District of Columbia
Up to US $8,000
The Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts at the National Gallery of Art offers Paul Mellon Visiting Senior Fellowships aimed at scholars researching the history and theory of visual arts across all periods and regions. Recipients receive a stipend of $7,000 or $8,000, along with housing, to support two months of full-time research. Applications are open to those holding a PhD or equivalent professional experience, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary insights into visual artifacts.
Visual Arts Art History

The Center: Beinecke Visiting Senior Fellowships

National Gallery of Art
Private
District of Columbia
Up to US $8,000
The Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts offers Beinecke Visiting Senior Fellowships for scholars to conduct full-time research in the visual arts. This program provides access to extensive resources, including the National Gallery of Art and the Library of Congress. Fellows, who must hold a PhD for five years or equivalent experience, receive stipends ranging from $7,000 to $8,000, along with housing subject to availability. Applications are welcomed from diverse disciplines, enhancing the study of visual culture.
Visual Arts Art History

The Center: Beinecke Postdoctoral Fellowship

National Gallery of Art
Private
District of Columbia
US $110,000
The Beinecke Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts supports research in the history and theory of visual arts across various cultures and periods. This prestigious fellowship offers a two-year residency in Washington, D.C., providing access to valuable resources and opportunities for collaboration. Applicants must hold a PhD obtained within the last five years and demonstrate proficiency in two languages, with a focus on historically marginalized fields. The fellowship includes a stipend of $55,000 per year.
Visual Arts Art History

Harvard Allston Partnership Fund (Up to $25,000)

President And Fellows Of Harvard College
Private
Suffolk County, Massachusetts
Up to US $25,000
The Harvard Allston Partnership Fund offers grants up to $25,000 to support local non-profits and community groups in the North Allston-North Brighton area. Established by Harvard University in collaboration with the Boston Planning & Development Agency, the fund aims to enhance neighborhood improvement, cultural enrichment, and educational programs. With a total of $200,000 available, priority will be given to organizations demonstrating a measurable impact on community needs.
Community Culture & Heritage Education Community Development & Revitalization

The Center: A. W. Mellon Postdoctoral Fellowship

National Gallery of Art
Private
District of Columbia
US $110,000
The A. W. Mellon Postdoctoral Fellowship at the National Gallery of Art supports research in the history, theory, and criticism of visual arts across various periods and regions. This two-year residential program allows fellows to engage in seminars and teach at local universities, enhancing scholarly contributions in understudied areas. The fellowship offers a stipend of $55,000 per year, along with allowances for medical insurance and travel, fostering a vibrant academic community.
Visual Arts Art History

The Met: Fellowship in History of Art and Visual Culture: Theodore Rousseau Fellowships

Metropolitan Museum Of Art
Private
Europe
US $53,000 - US $63,000
The Met's Theodore Rousseau Fellowships offer a unique opportunity for scholars to engage in independent research within the Museum's extensive collection. This fellowship encourages innovative exploration in the history of art and visual culture, fostering a diverse community of researchers. With a focus on critical theory and interdisciplinary approaches, fellows can receive stipends of $47,000 to $57,000, plus travel funding. This program aims to enhance understanding of art across cultures and time, enriching the academic landscape.
European Art

Harvard Allston Partnership Fund (Up to $10,000)

President And Fellows Of Harvard College
Private
Suffolk County, Massachusetts
Up to US $10,000
The Harvard Allston Partnership Fund offers annual grants of up to $10,000 to non-profit organizations and community groups that serve the Allston-Brighton community. Established in collaboration with local stakeholders, the fund aims to support neighborhood improvement, cultural enrichment, and education projects. With a total of $200,000 available, priority is given to initiatives that demonstrate a measurable impact and address local needs, including youth programs and public health initiatives.
Community Culture & Heritage Education Community Development & Revitalization

NCP Open Road Fund

Nexus Community Partners
Private
Minnesota, North Dakota +1 more
Approximately US $50,000
The NCP Open Road Fund is a transformative initiative aimed at empowering Black individuals in Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota by providing $50 million in grants. This fund focuses on fostering financial well-being, economic power, education, housing, and health. By supporting projects that enhance wealth creation and community healing, the fund aims to create sustainable pathways for Black families and individuals to thrive and build intergenerational wealth.
Black American Services

John Border Memorial Fellowship

Ao North America Inc
Private
Europe
More than US $1,500
The John Border Memorial Fellowship offers North American orthopedic residents a unique opportunity to gain experience in European trauma clinics. Funded by AO Trauma North America, this fellowship lasts from one to three months, covering travel and living expenses. Recipients will present their experiences and may be invited to speak at future courses, enhancing professional development and fostering international collaboration in orthopedic trauma care.
Medical Education & Professional Training Orthopedics

Northern Wisconsin Outdoor Experiential Education Scholarship Fund

Boreal Waters Community Foundation
Private
Boulder County, Colorado, Fremont County, Wyoming +3 more
US $1,000
The Northern Wisconsin Outdoor Experiential Education Scholarship Fund supports residents of Chequamegon Bay communities in accessing quality outdoor education programs. Created by anonymous donors passionate about outdoor experiences, the fund targets applicants demonstrating financial need and belonging to underrepresented groups in outdoor education. Awards of $1,000 are available for one year, enabling youth to engage in environmentally sustainable outdoor activities and develop social responsibility.
Environmental Education Outdoor Recreation

City of Phoenix: Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

City of Phoenix
State/Local Government
Maricopa County, Arizona
Unspecified amount
The City of Phoenix offers the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to enhance and support infrastructure projects in eligible neighborhoods. This initiative aims to engage residents and collaborate with local groups, addressing the needs of low- and moderate-income areas. The Neighborhood Services Department oversees these grants, ensuring that community development efforts align with the city's vision of creating vibrant neighborhoods. Interested parties should reach out for project proposals to make a positive impact.
Public Infrastructure

Barnes-Travis Arts Scholarship

The Arts Council of Moore County Inc.
Private
Moore County, North Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Barnes-Travis Arts Scholarship, established by the Arts Council of Moore County, supports middle and high school students in Moore County, NC, who demonstrate talent and interest in the arts. Since its inception in 2000, the scholarship has provided funds for music camps, art classes, and private lessons, benefiting numerous young artists. This initiative not only honors the legacy of dedicated arts supporters but also fosters creativity and growth among aspiring artists in the community.
Academic Scholarship Programs Art Education

Specific Interest Grants - Walls & Turner & Freida Dolby Fund- Animal Welfare

Delaware Community Foundation
Private
Delaware
US $2,500 - US $7,500

Walls & Turner & Freida Dolby Fund- Animal Welfare

These grants will fund programs that support animals and their welfare. This includes but is not limited to:

  • Assist in the training of professionally trained seeing-eye dogs and service assistance dogs for blind individuals, deaf individuals and/or individuals with mobility impairments and/or other physical disabilities
  • Provide support services in connection with the placements of such dogs with eligible recipients who are residents of the State of Delaware who demonstrate a drive to become more independent and who would not be able to acquire such dogs without financial assistance
  • Encourage the humane treatment of animals in Delaware through education of the public, adoption of animals without owners, neutering, and enforcement of laws governing the humane treatment of animals.

Awards will range from $2,500 to $7,500.

Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets Disability Care & Services

Nita M. Lowey 2025 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Competition: New Applicants

Kansas State Department of Education
State/Local Government
Kansas
Unspecified amount
The Nita M. Lowey 2025 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Competition is aimed at new applicants who seek to provide expanded learning opportunities outside regular school hours. Managed by the Kansas State Department of Education, this grant supports projects that enhance student achievement, particularly in schools with a significant low-income population. Applicants must collaborate with community organizations and focus on meeting state educational standards.
After School / Summer Educational Programs

Rural Business Development Grants in Arizona

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Arizona
US $100,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in Arizona aim to support small rural businesses by providing essential technical assistance and training. Eligible projects must benefit rural areas, with funding prioritized for smaller requests. This program offers two grant types: Opportunity grants, which focus on community and technology-based development, and Enterprise grants, which target small and emerging businesses through various developmental projects. Overall, the program fosters economic growth and sustainability in rural communities.
Rural Development

Rural Business Development Grants in Alabama

USDA: Rural Development (RD)
Federal Government
Alabama
US $10,000 - US $500,000
The Rural Business Development Grants in Alabama aim to support small rural businesses by providing technical assistance and training. Eligible projects must benefit rural areas outside urbanized regions. Although there is no maximum grant amount, smaller requests are prioritized. Funding can be used for various projects, including community development, training, and feasibility studies, enhancing the economic landscape of rural communities.
Rural Development

The Met: Leonard A. Lauder Fellowship in Modern Art: Predoctoral fellowships

Metropolitan Museum Of Art
Private
New York County, New York
Up to US $56,000
The Met's Leonard A. Lauder Fellowship in Modern Art offers predoctoral fellowships for art history students focusing on modern art. Founded in 2013, the fellowship provides scholars an opportunity to conduct independent research while engaging with a vibrant community. Each fellow receives a stipend of $50,000, a $6,000 travel fund, and health insurance for a two-year period. This program fosters diverse perspectives in the study of modernism, supporting innovative research across various disciplines.
Visual Arts Art History

KaBOOM! Adventure Courses Grant Program

KaBOOM!
Private
United States
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The KaBOOM! Adventure Courses Grant Program offers funding to create engaging playspaces for older children and teens. This initiative encourages community involvement through a collaborative design and build process, aiming to address the need for physical activity in low-income areas. Eligible applicants include organizations that serve youth and can demonstrate community support. Grants are available on a rolling basis, with a focus on priority cities impacted by recent events, including rural Colorado and Hurricane Harvey-affected Texas communities.
Playgrounds

BioLEAP Classroom Grants

National Anti Vivisection Society
Private
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $1,000
The BioLEAP Classroom Grants, funded by the National Anti Vivisection Society, support U.S. educators in purchasing humane alternatives to animal dissection. Grants of up to $1,000 are available for innovative learning tools like 3D models and synthetic specimens. This initiative promotes ethical education in anatomy labs, ensuring teachers have access to effective resources while fostering a compassionate approach to learning.
Anatomy STEM / STEAM Education

The Met: Leonard A. Lauder Fellowship in Modern Art: Postdoctoral fellowships

Metropolitan Museum Of Art
Private
New York County, New York
Up to US $66,000
The Leonard A. Lauder Fellowship in Modern Art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers postdoctoral scholars a unique opportunity to research modern art from diverse perspectives. Established in 2013, this fellowship provides a stipend of $60,000, research funds, and health insurance. It aims to foster a community of scholars engaged in innovative research that explores the history and impact of modernism across various disciplines, while contributing to the museum's rich collections and programs.
Visual Arts Art History

The Met: Leonard A. Lauder Fellowship in Modern Art: Mid-Career Fellowship

Metropolitan Museum Of Art
Private
New York County, New York
Up to US $76,000
The Met's Leonard A. Lauder Fellowship in Modern Art offers a unique opportunity for mid-career scholars to engage in focused research on modern art. Established in 2013, this fellowship supports research spanning various disciplines, including art history, philosophy, and anthropology. The fellowship provides a stipend of $70,000, a research allowance, and health insurance. In addition to their research, fellows will mentor early-career scholars and lead seminars, fostering a collaborative academic community.
Visual Arts Art History

Morse B. Barker Memorial Scholarship - WCC

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Morse B. Barker Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, supports students attending Washtenaw Community College. Eligible candidates must demonstrate financial need, reside in Washtenaw County, hold a high school diploma, and be aged 18 to 30. Recipients must enroll in at least nine credit hours and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. Previous recipients may reapply for the award up to two additional times, contributing to their educational advancement.
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.

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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