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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

The Andrew Lloyd Webber Initiative: University Scholarships

American Theatre Wing Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000
The Andrew Lloyd Webber Initiative: University Scholarships, by the American Theatre Wing, supports high school seniors from underrepresented backgrounds with a $10,000 annual scholarship for four years. This initiative addresses financial barriers for students pursuing theatre disciplines, including performance, design, and administration. Scholars are matched with mentors and gain exclusive opportunities such as master classes. This program aims to cultivate a diverse future in theatre, ensuring that talent is nurtured and accessible to all.
Theater

Jesse Pittman Memorial Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Mendocino County Inc.
Private
Mendocino County, California
Unspecified amount
The Jesse Pittman Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by friends and family of Jesse Pittman, supports determined students across Mendocino County in achieving their educational aspirations. It provides financial assistance for those who demonstrate grit, hard work, and a passion for making a difference. Eligible applicants must have a GPA between 2.5 and 4.0 and complete the GRIT scale to qualify. This scholarship embodies the spirit of adventure and service that Jesse championed.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Katherine and Elizabeth Lanam Memorial Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Mendocino County Inc.
Private
Mendocino County, California
Unspecified amount
The Katherine and Elizabeth Lanam Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by Philip Lanam, supports students from Mendocino County who have participated in 4-H or Future Farmers of America (FFA) during high school. Eligible students must pursue a career in agriculture or be scholar athletes with interests in the Humanities, life skills, or education. This fund aims to empower local youth to achieve their educational aspirations while honoring the legacy of Katherine and Elizabeth.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Brady Sexton Endowment Grant Program

Central Montcalm Community Foundation
Private
Montcalm County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Brady Sexton Endowment Grant Program, managed by the Central Montcalm Community Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life for Central Montcalm youth through athletics funding. This endowment utilizes annual earnings from permanent funds, ensuring sustainability as the principal remains untouched. Grants support local youth athletic programs, fostering community engagement and development. The endowment is open for applications as needs arise, emphasizing its commitment to long-term benefits for the Central Montcalm area.
Sports & Athletics Youth Services

Mendocino Agricultural Families’ Scholarship Fund (Winegrowers’ Scholarship Fund)

Community Foundation of Mendocino County Inc.
Private
Mendocino County, California
Unspecified amount
The Mendocino Agricultural Families’ Scholarship Fund, established by the Mendocino Winegrowers Alliance and the Savings Bank of Mendocino County, aims to support local students from agricultural families pursuing higher education. This scholarship recognizes the vital contributions of the agricultural workforce in Mendocino County. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher, and be children of agricultural workers in specific industries. The fund fosters educational advancement for deserving students.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Dallas- Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG)

Dallas County Texas
State/Local Government
Dallas County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The Dallas Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) provides approximately $190,000 annually to support homeless services in Dallas County. These funds are allocated to nonprofit organizations that deliver essential assistance and support to individuals experiencing homelessness. Services include emergency night shelter, transitional housing, and health support. For more information, please contact local partners such as The Bridge Homeless Recovery Center and Housing Forward NTX for resources and assistance.
Homelessness Services

Reasons for Hope Micro-Grant Program

Greater Milwaukee Foundation Inc
Private
Milwaukee County, Wisconsin
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Reasons for Hope Micro-Grant Program, initiated by the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, offers grants between $1,000 and $10,000 to support community-driven initiatives in Milwaukee. Funded by a $340,000 pool, it aims to foster social connections, promote peace, and enhance community cohesion, particularly in response to challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and historical violence. This program prioritizes under-resourced efforts that empower local voices and advocate for community representation.
Civic Leadership Development Civic Engagement & Education

SEED Grants

Robins Foundation
Private
Chesterfield County, Virginia, Henrico County, Virginia +1 more
Up to US $25,000
The SEED Grants, provided by the Robins Foundation, aim to enhance early childhood care and education (ECCE) for children aged prenatal to five. With flexible funding of up to $25,000, these grants support small nonprofit providers in Richmond City and surrounding areas to address urgent needs. Eligible organizations can use the funds for playground equipment, teacher development, and updated teaching materials. This initiative strengthens families and fosters long-term community impact through quality early learning experiences.
Early Childhood Development Teacher Development & Training

Nash Bartolomie Industrial Arts Scholarship

Community Foundation of Mendocino County Inc.
Private
Mendocino County, California
Unspecified amount
The Nash Bartolomie Industrial Arts Scholarship, established by friends and family, supports students pursuing careers in industrial arts. Offered by the Community Foundation of Mendocino County, this scholarship aims to assist local students with a GPA of 2.5 or higher who demonstrate passion and creativity in fields like carpentry, electronics, and welding. Financial need is considered, and applicants must submit a picture of their industrial art work. This initiative fosters educational and professional development in the community.
Academic Scholarship Programs Vocational & Trade Education

Penserra/Madrigal Family Scholarship

Community Foundation of Mendocino County Inc.
Private
Mendocino County, California
Unspecified amount
The Penserra/Madrigal Family Scholarship, established by Jorge Madrigal and Penserra Financial Ventures LLC, aims to honor la familia Madrigal by encouraging entrepreneurism. It provides financial support to seniors who are first, second, or third-generation immigrants in Mendocino County. The scholarship prioritizes students demonstrating ambition through sports, community involvement, or employment, with a GPA requirement of 3.0 or higher, ensuring accessibility for those in need as they pursue higher education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

WNDB: Walter Dean Myers Grant Program

We Need Diverse Books
Private
United States
US $2,000
The Walter Dean Myers Grant Program, established by We Need Diverse Books, offers $2,000 grants to promising unpublished diverse writers and illustrators. Aimed at enhancing their craft and supporting traditional publication pursuits, this initiative has awarded over 70 grants since 2015, resulting in nearly 60 published books and numerous literary accolades. Applicants must identify as diverse and be U.S. residents, working towards a career in children's literature.
Writing & Literature Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Sandy Westman Mayfield Vocational Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Mendocino County Inc.
Private
Lake County, California, Mendocino County, California
Unspecified amount
The Sandy Westman Mayfield Vocational Scholarship Fund, established by Sandra and John Mayfield, Jr., supports high school and reentry students pursuing vocational careers, particularly in cosmetology. Managed by the Community Foundation of Mendocino County, this scholarship provides vital opportunities for local students in Mendocino and Lake Counties, emphasizing the importance of vocational training and career readiness in the community.
Academic Scholarship Programs Vocational & Trade Education

Youth Programming Grant

Native American Agriculture Fund
Private
United States, United States Minor Outlying Islands
Unspecified amount
The Youth Programming Grant, offered by the Native American Agriculture Fund (NAAF), aims to support Native American farmers and ranchers through various projects. This grant focuses on providing essential business assistance, agricultural education, and advocacy services. By funding diverse initiatives, the NAAF seeks to promote the ongoing involvement of Native communities in agriculture, ensuring their sustainable growth and development within the sector.
Agricultural Education

Skye Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Mendocino County Inc.
Private
Mendocino County, California
Unspecified amount
The Skye Scholarship Fund, established by Valerie and Nick Brownrigg, supports Mendocino County high school graduates who have overcome adversity to pursue higher education. This scholarship aims to empower altruistic students with a GPA between 2.0 and 3.5, demonstrating financial need and a commitment to community involvement. Since 2016, it has been instrumental in helping local youth achieve their educational goals and make a positive impact in the world.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Marion Joy Morse Scholarship Fund

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Maine
Unspecified amount
The Marion Joy Morse Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to individuals pursuing education in medical fields. Eligible applicants must have been born on Mount Desert Island or attended a school there. This scholarship can be renewed at the discretion of the Advisory Committee. Since 1984, the foundation has awarded over $3 million annually through nearly 700 scholarship funds, supporting Maine residents in their educational endeavors.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Rice Scholarship Fund

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Maine
Unspecified amount
The Rice Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation in 1996, offers scholarships to students who have spent significant time on Maine's offshore islands and are pursuing higher education. This fund supports residents from both offshore and bridged islands, encouraging them to further their education at accredited institutions. Selection is based on financial need and commitment to community service, ensuring support for deserving students in Maine.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

bp Foundation Community Fund Grant

John S And James L Knight Foundation Inc
Private
Lake County, Indiana, Piatt County, Illinois
Up to US $5,000
The bp Foundation Community Fund Grant, in partnership with Legacy Foundation, aims to support organizations in Hammond, East Chicago, and Whiting impacted by the August 2025 storms. This grant offers up to $5,000 to assist with recovery efforts and enhance future preparedness. Eligible applicants include 501c3 nonprofits, churches, schools, local governments, and first responder agencies that have faced damage or service interruptions due to the storms.
Disaster Preparedness First Responders

Stephen L. Ross Scholarship Fund

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Cumberland County, Maine
Unspecified amount
The Stephen L. Ross Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, honors the memory of Stephen L. Ross, a Chebeague Island resident. This fund provides financial support to graduating high school seniors and first-year post-secondary students pursuing higher education or vocational training. Additionally, it recognizes students entering the education field with the Kenneth Hamilton Education Award. MaineCF awards over $3 million annually through nearly 700 scholarship funds, supporting local educational aspirations.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

UNK Pi Kappa Alpha Alumni Scholarship

Kearney Area Community Foundation
Private
Buffalo County, Nebraska
Up to US $1,600
The UNK Pi Kappa Alpha Alumni Scholarship, managed by the Kearney Area Community Foundation, supports male freshmen attending the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Two scholarships of $750 each are awarded at the start of the second semester of the first year. Eligibility criteria include being a full-time student and meeting specific academic standards. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for local youth.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

KKR Charitable Donations

KKR
Corporate
Australia, Bronx County, New York +24 more
Unspecified amount
KKR Charitable Donations supports impactful collaborations and programs addressing current needs while paving the way for future progress. Through their Corporate Citizenship program, KKR focuses on philanthropy, employee engagement, and sustainable community initiatives. The KKR Cares initiative enables employees to engage with communities worldwide via matching gifts, board service, and volunteer opportunities, aiming to enhance economic opportunity and security for underserved populations.
Economic Rights, Justice, & Mobility Economic Services & Development

Virginia M Ballard Scholarship Fund

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Cumberland County, Maine
Unspecified amount
The Virginia M Ballard Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports residents of Chebeague Island facing financial need. Founded in 1983, the Maine Community Foundation helps Maine residents access education by awarding over $3 million annually through numerous scholarship funds. This initiative underscores the foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities for students in various accredited institutions and programs.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Wendell S. Doody Memorial Scholarship Fund

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Maine
Unspecified amount
The Wendell S. Doody Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Washburn District High School or Presque Isle High School. This scholarship aims to assist students pursuing technical education in trades such as plumbing, welding, and carpentry at community colleges in Maine. With a focus on students demonstrating academic promise, this fund is a tribute to Wendell S. Doody's legacy of hard work and community service.
Academic Scholarship Programs Vocational & Trade Education

Harry Bertram Reynolds Scholarship Fund

Southern Illinois Community Foundation (SICF)
Association/Society
Illinois
Unspecified amount

Southern Illinois Community Foundation

Our Vision

To engage the people of southern Illinois in building a tradition of philanthropy. The Southern Illinois Community Foundation is committed to creating an opportunity for donors to participate in local community development efforts to address the changing needs of our community through charitable giving.

Our Scholarships

We represent scholarships all across Southern Illinois with a variety of different missions, goals, and dreams. 

Harry Bertram Reynolds Scholarship Fund

This fund was established in memory of Harry Bertram Reynolds to benefit a graduating senior from a High School in Jefferson County, Illinois.

Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Baxter Waldman Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation for Nantucket
Private
Nantucket County, Massachusetts
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Baxter Waldman Memorial Scholarship, funded by the Community Foundation for Nantucket, honors a driven young man by supporting graduating seniors from Nantucket. With an annual award of $2000, it aims to empower students who exhibit Baxter's qualities of confidence, care, and commitment to their goals. This scholarship encourages individuals who are actively engaged in their communities and schools, promoting teamwork and perseverance. Be Baxter strong!
Academic Success & Enrichment Youth Services

Limited Competition PCORI Funding: Implementation Awards -- Cycle 3 2026

Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $2,500,000
The Implementation Awards by PCORI aim to fund projects that translate patient-centered research into real-world practices. With budgets up to $2.5 million for implementation projects lasting up to 48 months, applicants must present a clear plan for broad evidence uptake. Additionally, those proposing implementation projects need an accepted Draft Final Research Report related to their original PCORI-funded research to qualify for funding.
Patient Care & Services

Early Childhood Arts Partnership Grants (Formerly Head Start Arts Integration)

Vermont Arts Council
State/Local Government
Vermont
Up to US $6,000
The Early Childhood Arts Partnership Grants aim to enhance preschool education by integrating arts into early childhood programs. By fostering partnerships between education providers, arts organizations, and teaching artists, the initiative seeks to address equity challenges for underrepresented communities. Grants of up to $6,000 will support creative programming from January to August 2025, ensuring children experience culturally relevant arts education, thereby preparing them for academic success.
Art Education Education - Preschool / Early Learning

Body Worn Camera Grant Funding Request for Proposal

Ohio Office of Criminal & Justice Services
State/Local Government
Ohio
US $3,127 - US $122,720
The Ohio Body-Worn Camera Grant Program aims to enhance law enforcement transparency and accountability by providing funding for agencies to establish or upgrade their body-worn camera programs. With a budget of $10 million, the program prioritizes agencies without existing camera systems. In 2023, the average award was approximately $43,482, addressing crucial needs for improved evidence collection and officer training, ultimately fostering better community relations and public trust.
Police & Law Enforcement

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.