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

Sprague Charitable Contribution Program

Sprague
Corporate
Connecticut, District of Columbia +11 more
US $250 - US $10,000
The Sprague Charitable Contribution Program focuses on giving back to communities through charitable donations. With awards ranging from $250 to $10,000, priority is given to organizations that support children and environmental stewardship, particularly within Sprague's operational areas. The program seeks impactful contributions that can achieve significant results, reflecting Sprague's commitment to social responsibility and community improvement.
Environment Youth Services

Governor’s Merit Scholarship (GMS)

Ohio Department of Higher Education
State/Local Government
Ohio
Up to US $5,000
The Governor’s Merit Scholarship (GMS) aims to retain Ohio's top high school graduates by providing financial support for higher education. Funded at $20 million annually, it awards up to $5,000 per year for four years to eligible students attending qualifying institutions in Ohio. The program encourages academic excellence and aims to reduce financial barriers, ensuring that outstanding students can pursue their education in-state, thereby contributing to the state's workforce and economy.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

2025-2027 Out of School Programs Grant Program

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Comal County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The 2025-2027 Out of School Programs Grant Program aims to support the New Braunfels Youth Collaborative in providing safe and engaging after-school programs for youth aged 12-18 in Comal County. With a total funding of $5,000,000, this initiative fosters educational and recreational activities outside regular school hours, ensuring a supportive environment for youth development.
Student Retention & Drop-Out Prevention

Celebrate Education Grants

Oshkosh Area Community Foundation
Private
Winnebago County, Wisconsin
US $500 - US $2,000
The Celebrate Education Grants aim to enhance educational excellence in Oshkosh area schools by providing funding opportunities ranging from $500 to $2,000. Collaborating with community partners, the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation supports teachers in accessing necessary resources, with grant recipients celebrated at the annual Celebrate Education event. Eligible applicants include public and parochial school teachers within the district, focusing on projects that inspire and enrich the educational experience for students.
Education - K through 12 Academic Success & Enrichment

Maine Artist Fellowship- Fine Craft

Maine Arts Commission
State/Local Government
Maine
US $5,000
The Maine Artist Fellowship for Fine Craft recognizes the artistic excellence of Maine artists through merit-based awards. Selected fellows receive unrestricted funding to advance their careers, promotional opportunities, and networking experiences. This fellowship aims to support artists engaged in contemporary or traditional craft practices. Eligible individuals must be Maine residents, at least 25 years old, and not enrolled in school. This award fosters a community of creativity and collaboration among seven distinguished fellows.
Fine Art

Community-Built Playspace Grants

KaBOOM!
Private
Arapahoe County, Colorado, Collin County, Texas +27 more
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Community-Built Playspace Grants, funded by KaBOOM!, aim to empower communities to create kid-designed playspaces that foster health and well-being. These grants address inequities in access to safe play areas, particularly in communities of color, ensuring that all children can benefit from spaces that promote social, emotional, and physical development. By supporting the construction of these playspaces, KaBOOM! works to enhance resilience and learning opportunities for children, transforming neighborhoods into vibrant, engaging environments.
Playgrounds

Refugee Community Grant Fund

Omaha Community Foundation
Private
Douglas County, Nebraska, Sarpy County, Nebraska
Up to US $25,000
The Refugee Community Grant Fund, in partnership with the Omaha Community Foundation, supports initiatives that empower refugee communities in Omaha. Led by individuals with refugee backgrounds, the fund prioritizes arts, education, health, and basic human needs. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations or those collaborating with fiscal agents, ensuring alignment with non-discrimination policies. The fund encourages innovative programs and collaboration among organizations, valuing refugee representation within decision-making processes.
Refugee Services

Gregory-Rye Scholarship Fund

Southern Illinois Community Foundation (SICF)
Association/Society
Illinois
US $2,500
The Gregory-Rye Scholarship Fund, established by the Southern Illinois Community Foundation, honors the legacy of Elmer Gregory and Leonard Rye. This scholarship aims to support Benton High School students pursuing higher education with awards of $10,000, distributed in four installments. With a minimum GPA of 2.00, this fund seeks to empower students to achieve their educational and career dreams, reflecting the values of philanthropy and community support in southern Illinois.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG)

Ohio Department of Higher Education
State/Local Government
Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG) is designed to assist Ohio residents with significant financial need, as determined by the FAFSA. Eligible individuals include those pursuing associate degrees or first bachelor's degrees at recognized institutions, with a maximum household income of $96,000. The grant adapts based on tuition costs, ensuring support for students in various programs, including foster youth and veterans at community colleges. This initiative fosters access to higher education across Ohio.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

BayCare Clinic Foundation Grant: Mental Health Initiative Grant

BayCare Clinic Foundation
Private
Brown County, Wisconsin, Door County, Wisconsin +8 more
Unspecified amount
The BayCare Clinic Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing mental health initiatives in northeastern Wisconsin. This grant supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that propose innovative programs addressing mental health challenges, particularly for underserved populations. With quarterly funding opportunities, the Foundation aims to improve overall community well-being through collaborations that foster health and wellness. Eligible organizations must operate within the BayCare Clinic service areas and address pressing mental health issues effectively.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases

Erin Elizabeth Sperrey Memorial Scholarship Fund

Maine Community Foundation
Private
Aroostook County, Maine
Unspecified amount
The Erin Elizabeth Sperrey Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by the Maine Community Foundation, honors a promising young woman who tragically lost her life. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from Aroostook County high schools pursuing degrees in early childhood education or liberal arts. The Maine Community Foundation, founded in 1983, awards over $3 million annually through nearly 700 scholarship funds, aiding Maine residents in their educational pursuits.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Southern 17 Scholarship

Southern Illinois Community Foundation (SICF)
Association/Society
Pope County, Illinois, Pulaski County, Illinois +5 more
Unspecified amount
The Southern 17 Scholarship, offered by the Southern Illinois Community Foundation, aims to support high school graduates from the 17 southernmost counties of Illinois. This scholarship facilitates continuing education at various local institutions, including John A Logan College and Southern Illinois University – Carbondale. By fostering local philanthropy, the SICF encourages community development and provides opportunities for students to pursue their academic goals in a supportive environment.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Mid America Healthcare Executives Forum Fund

Southern Illinois Community Foundation (SICF)
Association/Society
Illinois
US $500 - US $1,000
The Mid America Healthcare Executives Forum Fund, administered by the Southern Illinois Community Foundation, provides scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in healthcare management. Aiming to support future healthcare leaders, the fund awards a minimum of $1,500 annually in scholarships, helping talented individuals overcome financial barriers to education. This initiative not only promotes academic achievement but also enhances population health in the community by fostering skilled professionals in the healthcare sector.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Interlace Grant Fund: Emergency Grants

Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts
Private
Providence County, Rhode Island
Up to US $500
The Interlace Grant Fund offers Emergency Grants to visual artists in the Providence area facing urgent needs like eviction or healthcare costs. Applications are accepted monthly, with awards between $50 and $500, totaling $1250 each month. Artists can apply repeatedly until they reach a maximum of $500. The grants are unrestricted and do not require reporting, ensuring support is provided without barriers. Recipients will remain anonymous to protect their privacy.
Visual Arts Arts / Culture Access & Participation

Women's Giving Circle

Kitsap Community Foundation
Private
Kitsap County, Washington
US $2,500 - US $10,000
The Women's Giving Circle of the Kitsap Peninsula, supported by the Kitsap Community Foundation, fosters philanthropy among women, inviting both large and small nonprofit organizations to apply for grants aimed at uplifting women and children. With grant amounts of up to $10,000 for larger organizations and $2,500 for smaller ones, this initiative promotes community collaboration and engagement through meaningful gatherings and collective decision-making, ensuring impactful support for local nonprofits.
Women & Girl Services Child Welfare Services

Republic Services: Community Grant Program

Republic Services Charitable Foundation
Corporate
Puerto Rico, United States
Unspecified amount
The Republic Services Community Grant Program supports local nonprofit organizations focused on neighborhood revitalization, safety, disaster relief, and social services. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations can apply once annually through an online application process. The program emphasizes a non-discrimination policy, ensuring services are provided without bias. However, funding is not available for individuals, government entities, schools, or religious organizations. This initiative reflects Republic Services' commitment to community engagement and support.
Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Community / Public Safety Human & Social Services

WAEF Scholarships - Allan Brothers

Washington Apple Education Foundation
Private
Washington
US $2,500
The WAEF Scholarships, provided by the Washington Apple Education Foundation, support over 300 students annually, awarding more than $1 million in educational funding. These scholarships are primarily aimed at students with parents employed in the tree fruit industry, including roles at Allan Brothers. Eligible recipients can pursue various degrees at accredited institutions, with awards potentially renewable for multiple years, promoting educational advancement in the agricultural sector.
Agricultural Crops All fields of work

WAEF Scholarships - AgWest Farm Credit

Washington Apple Education Foundation
Private
Washington
US $1,250
The WAEF Scholarships, offered by the Washington Apple Education Foundation, provide crucial financial support to over 300 students pursuing higher education, with awards totaling over $1 million. Applicants must have ties to Washington's tree fruit industry, whether through family employment or ownership. This initiative encourages students to further their education in various fields, especially those aligned with the banking and lending sectors, ensuring a skilled workforce for the industry.
Agricultural Crops All fields of work

JWDDBF: Service Learning Program

Joe W & Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation
Private
Louisiana, Mississippi
Unspecified amount
The JWDDBF Service Learning Program, administered by the Joe W & Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation, supports K-12 schools in Louisiana and Mississippi. This initiative encourages students to engage with their communities through service learning projects that connect academic curriculum with real-world problems. By providing funding, the program enhances students' critical thinking, collaboration, and empathy while fostering positive relationships between schools and communities. The Principal’s Award also incentivizes schools to participate in these enriching experiences.
STEM / STEAM Education Education - K through 12

JWDDBF: SupportSTEM Grant Program

Joe W & Dorothy Dorsett Brown Foundation
Private
Louisiana, Mississippi
Up to US $30,000
The JWDDBF: SupportSTEM Grant Program aims to enhance STEM education in K-12 schools in Louisiana and Mississippi by funding innovative curriculum implementation and instructional support. Eligible applicants include K-12 schools, universities, and non-profits with three years of operation. Grants can be requested for amounts up to $20,000, covering essentials like professional development, STEM kits, and ongoing programs. However, funds will not support capital projects or one-time events.
STEM / STEAM Education Education - K through 12

R3 Grant Program

Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Up to US $25,000
The R3 Grant Program, managed by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, offers up to $25,000 in funding to support initiatives that enhance fishing and boating education. This program aims to engage diverse audiences and promote environmental justice by facilitating hands-on experiences. Eligible projects must demonstrate innovation and a commitment to reaching underrepresented communities, ultimately fostering a greater appreciation for outdoor activities among all demographics.
Sport Fishing Outdoor Equity

Massac County Academic Scholarship Fund

Southern Illinois Community Foundation (SICF)
Association/Society
Massac County, Illinois
Unspecified amount
The Massac County Academic Scholarship Fund, established in 1986 by the Kiwanis Club of Metropolis, IL, aims to support graduating seniors from Massac County's high schools. With over $426,000 awarded to 448 students, this fund encourages academic achievement and community involvement, providing financial assistance for those pursuing higher education at accredited institutions.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Hawkins Charitable Foundation Grant

Allen W. and Gladys Hawkins Charitable Foundation
Private
Miami County, Kansas
Unspecified amount
The Hawkins Charitable Foundation Grant, established in honor of Allen W. and Gladys Hawkins, aims to support community betterment projects in Osawatomie, Kansas. The foundation prioritizes grants for organizations classified as 501(c)(3) public charities that operate for charitable purposes. Applications are reviewed by local trustees to ensure resources are directed to areas of critical need. The foundation does not fund requests outside Osawatomie or those aimed at influencing legislation or benefiting individuals.
Community Services Science Writing & Literature +1 more

Strengthening Civics Education in Appalachian Ohio RFA

Foundation for Appalachian Ohio
Private
Adams County, Ohio, Ashtabula County, Ohio +30 more
US $500 - US $10,000
The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, in collaboration with the Longaberger Family Foundation, is dedicated to enhancing K-12 civics education across Appalachian Ohio. Since 2019, over $95,000 has been granted to empower students through engaging civics programs. The funding is available to K-12 public schools, educators, and nonprofit organizations, focusing on projects that foster civic engagement and community involvement among students in the region's 32 counties.
Civic Engagement & Education Education - K through 12

Carol Cope Alpha Xi Delta Scholarship

Kearney Area Community Foundation
Private
Buffalo County, Nebraska
US $900
The Carol Cope Alpha Xi Delta Scholarship, managed by the Kearney Area Community Foundation, supports local undergraduate women attending the University of Nebraska at Kearney. This $825 scholarship is awarded to active members of the Alpha Xi Delta National Women’s Fraternity who demonstrate academic success and community involvement. Applicants must have completed at least 70 credit hours and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, showcasing their commitment to both education and service.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Holy Cross Lutheran Mitchell Scholarship

Kearney Area Community Foundation
Private
Buffalo County, Nebraska
US $1,000
The Holy Cross Lutheran Mitchell Scholarship, managed by the Kearney Area Community Foundation, provides $1,000 to support students associated with Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Kearney, Nebraska. Eligible applicants must be part-time or full-time undergraduate students at accredited institutions, be members of the church, and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA. This scholarship aims to empower local youth to pursue higher education, fostering community engagement and charitable giving.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Urban Forest Grant

City Of Austin
Private
Hays County, Texas, Travis County, Texas +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Urban Forest Grant, funded by the City of Austin, aims to enhance the city's urban forest through various stewardship activities. This grant supports tree planting, care, and education, addressing unique urban challenges. Eligible applicants include community groups, non-profits, and educational institutions committed to improving the urban canopy. By applying, participants invest in a healthier environment, ensuring benefits for future generations and the community at large.
Greening & Beautification Urban Planning

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.

Filter Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

Browse Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits by Location

Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming American Samoa District of Columbia Guam Northern Mariana Islands Puerto Rico Virgin Islands Africa Haiti

Related Grant Funding Focus Areas

Browse Other Nonprofit Operations & Capacity Grants

Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits Corporate Grants for Nonprofits Foundation Grants for Nonprofits Grants for 501(c)(3) Grants for Capital Funding Grants for Computers for Nonprofits Grants for Grassroots Organizations Grants for Solar Panels for Nonprofits Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations Marketing Grants for Nonprofits Operating Grants for Nonprofits Private Grants for Nonprofits Seed Grants for Nonprofits Small Grants for Nonprofits Technology Grants Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits

Browse More Local Grants

Local Grants by City

Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in St. Petersburg, FL Grants for 501(c)(3) in Nashville, TN Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Mobile, AL Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in New Haven, CT Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Los Angeles, CA Grants for Computers for Nonprofits in Pocatello, ID Grants for Capital Funding in Rochester, MN Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Lawton, OK Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Dover, DE Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Pittsburgh, PA Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits in Columbus, GA Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Burlington, VT