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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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32,545 Results based on applied filters

Ella T. Grasso Literary Scholarship

UNICO Foundation Inc
Association/Society
California, Connecticut +12 more
US $1,000
The Ella T. Grasso Literary Scholarship, provided by the UNICO Foundation, offers two $1,000 awards to college students of Italian descent. Candidates must submit an original essay or short story celebrating their heritage while being enrolled in a full-time, accredited U.S. college for the 2026-2027 academic year. This initiative highlights UNICO's commitment to supporting educational endeavors and preserving Italian culture within America.
Community Culture & Heritage Writing & Literature

Fredric Rosemore Low Vision Educational Grants

American Academy of Optometry Foundation Inc.
Corporate
North America
US $1,000
The Fredric Rosemore Low Vision Educational Grant, awarded by the American Academy of Optometry Foundation since 2012, aims to foster excellence in low vision education at North American optometry institutions. Each grant provides $1,000 to support various needs such as personnel, equipment, or care, aligning with the mission of the AAOF. Eligible applicants include members of the AAO, whether they are students, candidates, or Fellows.
Eye Diseases & Disorders

Edith Schwab Memorial Scholarship

Blue Grass Community Foundation, Inc.
Private
Kentucky
US $1,000
The Edith Schwab Memorial Scholarship, established by the Blue Grass Community Foundation in honor of Edith Schwab, aims to support graduate students in Kentucky pursuing careers in public service. This non-renewable scholarship offers at least $1,000 to candidates with excellent academic records and demonstrated financial need, focusing on fields such as public administration, teaching, public health, or social work. The foundation seeks to empower future leaders dedicated to community enhancement.
Academic Scholarship Programs Epidemiology & Public Health

Victoria S. and Bradley L. Geist Foundation: Supporting Transitioning Foster Youth

Hawai'i Community Foundation
Private
Hawaii
US $10,000 - US $75,000
The Victoria S. and Bradley L. Geist Foundation provides grants to support transitioning foster youth in Hawaii. This initiative, aligned with the Jim Casey Youth Opportunities Initiative, aims to enhance youth outcomes in areas such as education, employment, and housing. Grant proposals should focus on engaging youth and fostering supportive relationships. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations serving current or former foster youth aged 14-24. The foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate measurable impact on youth development.
Child Foster Care & Adoption Services

Special Interest Grants: The Nightingale Fund Grant

Hampton Roads Community Foundation
Private
Accomack County, Virginia, Chesapeake City, Virginia +7 more
Up to US $500
The Nightingale Fund Grant supports faith communities in creating handmade greeting cards for senior citizens in nursing homes and housebound individuals. Grants typically cover craft supply costs for one year. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in South Hampton Roads, while ineligible projects include fundraising events or capital campaigns. Applications are reviewed as received, ensuring timely assistance for those aiming to foster caring connections through this outreach.
Nursing

Rosenlund Family Foundation Grants

Rosenlund Family Foundation
Private
Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Chester County, Pennsylvania +3 more
US $2,500 - US $5,000
The Rosenlund Family Foundation, established in 1962, focuses on supporting under-served children and youth in Philadelphia's disadvantaged neighborhoods. It provides general operating support to small and medium-sized organizations with budgets under $2 million. The foundation prioritizes long-term arts and environmental education programming that fosters creativity and environmental stewardship, aiming to equip youth with necessary skills for success in today's workforce. Proposals are accepted annually from January 15 to the end of February.
Environmental Education Art Education

Firedoll Foundation: Survivors of Traumatic Brain Injury Grants

The Firedoll Foundation
Private
Alameda County, California, Contra Costa County, California +4 more
US $10,000 - US $30,000
The Firedoll Foundation provides grants for community-based services assisting survivors of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in California. Emphasizing post-acute support, the Foundation seeks to enhance the quality of life for TBI survivors, enabling their integration into society. Funding is prioritized for 501(c)(3) organizations and fiscally-sponsored projects focused on discrete deliverables. Notably, they do not support individuals or general operating costs for first-time applicants.
Brain Injuries

Alfred Bersted Foundation Grants

Alfred Bersted Foundation
Private
DeKalb County, Illinois, DuPage County, Illinois +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Alfred Bersted Foundation Grants aim to support quality educational, human services, and healthcare programs for underserved populations in DeKalb, DuPage, Kane, and McHenry counties, Illinois. Established in 1972, the foundation typically offers one-year grants and prioritizes organizations with a physical presence in these areas. Notably, grants are not awarded to degree-conferring institutions or for endowment campaigns, ensuring resources are focused on immediate community needs.
Education Health Care Access & Delivery Human & Social Services

Wood Family Charitable Trust Grant

Wood Family Charitable Trust
Private
Malheur County, Oregon
US $200 - US $15,000
The Wood Family Charitable Trust Grant, established in 2007, aims to provide support for educational, human services, and healthcare programs targeting underserved populations in Vale, Oregon, and nearby areas. The trust encourages grant requests for general operating support, while also considering program support and small capital expenses. Most grants are typically for one year, with occasional multi-year support available, making it a valuable resource for local nonprofit organizations.
Education Human & Social Services Health Care Access & Delivery

OCCF: Donna Nigh Foundation Grant

Oklahoma City Community Foundation
Private
Oklahoma
Up to US $8,000
The OCCF: Donna Nigh Foundation Grant supports Oklahoma-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and accredited schools that provide essential services to individuals with severe intellectual and developmental disabilities. The foundation provides funding for adaptive equipment and activities aimed at enhancing independence and quality of life. Eligible projects include environmental adaptations, classroom equipment, and sheltered workshop activities, while special events and capital improvements are excluded from funding.
Intellectual / Developmental Disabilities

First Lieutenant Peter F. Cureton Jr. Foundation Grant

The First Lieutenant Peter F. Cureton Jr. Foundation
Private
Greenville County, South Carolina
Unspecified amount
The First Lieutenant Peter F. Cureton Jr. Foundation, established in memory of a WWII veteran, supports charitable causes focusing on animal welfare, human services, and veteran programs. Operating primarily in Greenville County, SC, the foundation provides capital, operating, and programming support to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations. It does not fund multi-year or challenge grants, ensuring targeted assistance to children, the disabled, the indigent, and veterans in need.
Animal Welfare - General Environment Human & Social Services

James B. Linsmayer Foundation Grant

The James B. Linsmayer Foundation
Private
United States
US $5,000 - US $25,000
The James B. Linsmayer Foundation Grant supports programs in arts, culture, education, health, and human services primarily within the Twin Cities of Minnesota. Established in memory of James B. Linsmayer, the foundation aims to be a strategic partner in these vital areas. Eligible grantees include public charities recognized under IRC guidelines, with no geographic limitations but a preference for local organizations. While start-ups may be considered, funding for organizational expenses is not permitted.
Art & Culture Health & Medicine Education +1 more

Frank H. Stewart Trust Grant

Frank H. Stewart Trust
Private
Atlantic County, New Jersey, Cape May County, New Jersey +4 more
Up to US $150,000
The Frank H. Stewart Trust Grant aims to support the purchase of land for public parks, recreation grounds, and wildlife preservation in specific New Jersey counties. Established through Mr. Stewart's will, the Trust also funds maintenance and improvements of previously acquired lands. Eligible applicants include local municipalities within Gloucester, Salem, Atlantic, Cumberland, and Cape May Counties, ensuring that the land serves public interests and maintains ecological integrity.
Land / Habitat Conservation

Ackerman Foundation Grants

The Ackerman Foundation
Private
Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Ackerman Foundation, established in 1992, aims to enhance the vitality of central Indiana by supporting organizations that promote self-sufficiency for the underprivileged and initiatives that improve educational outcomes. They provide grants exclusively to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations, typically limiting support to one grant per year per agency. The foundation does not fund individuals and focuses on sustaining local cultural and health institutions to enrich community life.
Education Health & Medicine Human & Social Services +1 more

County Fairground Improvement Grant

Compeer Financial, ACA
Corporate
Adams County, Illinois, Adams County, Wisconsin +142 more
Up to US $7,500
The County Fair Facility Upgrade Grant Program aims to support rural communities within Compeer Financial’s territory by providing funding for upgrades and repairs to county fair facilities. Eligible organizations can receive up to $4,000 to enhance livestock buildings, 4-H buildings, and judging arenas. This initiative not only improves facilities but also fosters community engagement and agricultural education, ensuring that fairs continue to thrive in delivering memorable experiences for all ages.
Livestock & Ranching

Lawrence Saunders Fund Grant

The Lawrence Saunders Fund
Private
Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Chester County, Pennsylvania +4 more
Up to US $5,000
The Lawrence Saunders Fund Grant, established in memory of Lawrence Saunders, supports charitable endeavors with a focus on environmental projects, education for underprivileged children and adults, and social services for those in need. Created by his wife, Dorothy Love Saunders, the fund aims to enhance community welfare through strategic grants derived from its investment portfolio. This philanthropic initiative continues to impact various sectors, promoting sustainability and education.
Environment Education Human & Social Services

Oak Foundation: Learning Differences Grant Programme

The Oak Foundation USA
Private
Ethiopia, Europe +1 more
Unspecified amount
The Oak Foundation's Learning Differences Grant Programme aims to foster equitable educational experiences for students with learning differences, particularly those marginalized by racism and poverty. Through strategic partnerships with not-for-profit organizations, the program enhances understanding of diverse learners' needs, translates knowledge into effective practices, and influences systemic changes to create supportive learning environments. The initiative emphasizes the importance of community involvement, ensuring that students' voices are heard and their educational needs are met.
Learning Disabilities

New Investigator Research Grant

SickKids Foundation
Private
Canada
Up to C $300,000
The New Investigator Research Grant, sponsored by SickKids Foundation and CIHR, supports early-career researchers in child health. Offering up to $300,000 over three years, it aims to enhance their ability to compete for larger grants. This initiative fosters significant research in biomedical, clinical, and public health sectors, ultimately aiming to improve child health outcomes. By funding innovative projects, it strengthens Canada's research capacity to address pressing children's health challenges.
Developmental Biology / Embryology Children’s Health & Pediatrics

Investigators in the Pathogenesis of Infectious Disease Grant Program

Burroughs Wellcome Fund
Private
Canada, United States
US $505,000
The Investigators in the Pathogenesis of Infectious Disease Grant Program, funded by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, aims to support early-career assistant professors studying human infectious diseases. With a budget of $505,000 over five years, it encourages innovative research on the interplay between human systems and infectious agents, fostering multidisciplinary approaches to enhance our understanding of disease mechanisms and health maintenance.
Infectious & Parasitic Diseases

AFAR Grants for Junior Faculty and Glenn Foundation for Medical Research (GFMR) Grants for Junior Faculty

American Federation for Aging Research
Private
United States
Up to US $160,000
The AFAR Grants for Junior Faculty and Glenn Foundation for Medical Research offer up to $160,000 for one- to two-year research projects focusing on the biology of aging. Aimed at early career faculty, these grants support innovative studies not limited to age-related diseases but rather the fundamental mechanisms of aging. Approximately 10 grants will be awarded in 2026, with funding starting July 1. Applicants must be independent investigators within 10 years of their postdoctoral training.
Aging / Gerontology Developmental Biology (non-medical)

Diana Jacobs Kalman/AFAR Graduate Student Awards in Geroscience

American Federation for Aging Research
Private
United States
US $5,000
The Diana Jacobs Kalman/AFAR Scholarships for Research in the Biology of Aging offer MD, DO, PhD, or combined-degree students the opportunity to conduct research on aging. Established by Diana Jacobs Kalman, a leader in aging science, the program addresses the challenges of an aging population. By awarding up to ten scholarships, it aims to foster innovative research and improve the quality of life for older adults. Proposed projects should focus on specific areas like immune function, inflammation, and genetic control of longevity.
Aging / Gerontology Developmental Biology (non-medical)

Albert W. Rice Charitable Foundation Grant

Albert W. Rice Charitable Foundation
Private
Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Albert W. Rice Charitable Foundation Grant supports educational, health, and human services programs for underserved populations in Worcester, MA. Established in 1959, the foundation encourages grant requests for general operating or program support, with special consideration for local organizations. Most grants are for one year, though multi-year support may be awarded on occasion. This commitment aims to enhance the quality of life for those in need within the community.
Education Human & Social Services Health Care Access & Delivery

Lavina Parker Trust Grant

Lavina Parker Trust
Private
Kay County, Oklahoma
US $2,500 - US $15,000
The Lavina Parker Trust Grant aims to support mentally disabled children in Kay County, Oklahoma, established in 1992. It provides financial assistance to organizations that offer medical and psychiatric care, educational resources, and general aid to children under 19 years old. Eligible applicants include 509(a)(3) organizations focused on mental disabilities. This grant ensures vital support for enhancing the quality of life for these children and their families.
Children With Disabilities

Frances M. Culbertson Travel Grant

American Psychological Foundation Inc
Private
United States
US $1,500
The Frances M. Culbertson Travel Grant provides essential funding for women from developing countries at the beginning of their psychology careers. This grant helps address the challenges posed by limited resources, allowing recipients to attend international and regional conferences. Eligible applicants must hold a doctoral degree and be within ten years postdoctoral, promoting diversity in the field. Preference is given to those attending key psychology conferences, fostering professional growth and networking opportunities.
Psychology

Charles L. Brewer Distinguished Teaching of Psychology Award

American Psychological Foundation Inc
Private
Afghanistan, Africa +34 more
US $3,000
The Charles L. Brewer Distinguished Teaching of Psychology Award honors psychologists with outstanding teaching records. Awardees receive a plaque, a $2,000 monetary prize, and a $1,000 travel stipend, along with the opportunity to present at the APA Annual Convention. This prestigious award encourages nominations from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing achievements in teaching, curriculum development, and research in psychology education. Note that self-nominations are not permitted, and international applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria.
Psychology

David B. Jones Foundation Grant

David B Jones Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The David B. Jones Foundation Grant supports educational, research, and charitable initiatives in paleontology within the United States. Established in 1998, it offers various funding types, including one-time, multiyear, and challenge grants, focusing on projects that promote the science of paleontology. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) organizations aligned with the foundation's mission, prioritizing programs that engage young fossil hunters and public education through museums. The foundation does not fund individual requests or religious organizations.
Paleontology

AAAS Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellowship

American Association for the Advancement of Science
Association/Society
United States
US $10,000
The AAAS Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellowship is a prestigious 10-week summer program designed for science, engineering, and mathematics students to work at media organizations across the U.S. This fellowship enhances public understanding of science by equipping fellows with skills to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively. Participants will receive an $8000 stipend and gain invaluable experience in journalism, fostering collaboration between scientists and media professionals to create engaging science stories for the public.
Science Communications

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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