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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

Post-Doctorate Research Grants: Gladys W. Cole Memorial Research Award

Geological Society of America (GSA)
Association/Society
Mexico, United States
Approximately US $8,000
The Gladys W. Cole Memorial Research Award, established by the Geological Society of America (GSA), supports research in geomorphology of semiarid and arid terrains in the U.S. and Mexico. Aimed at GSA Members or Fellows aged 30 to 65, it recognizes significant contributions to the field. Candidates can reapply if additional funding is needed. Notably, funds cannot be allocated for completed work. This award honors Dr. W. Storrs Cole's legacy and contributions to geosciences.
Geomorphology

Crop Science Graduate Student Scholarship

Crop Science Society of America (CSSA)
Association/Society
United States
US $2,000
The Crop Science Graduate Student Scholarship, supported by the Gerald O. Mott family, offers financial assistance to outstanding graduate students pursuing M.S. or Ph.D. degrees in crop science. Candidates must demonstrate leadership potential and be enrolled in U.S. institutions, while also being members of CSSA or ASA. Self-nominations are allowed, but former recipients and members of the CSSA Awards Committee are ineligible. This scholarship aims to promote excellence in agronomic education.
Agricultural Crops

Environmental & Engineering Geology Division (EEGD): Roy J. Shlemon Scholarship Award

Geological Society of America (GSA)
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The Roy J. Shlemon Scholarship Award, offered by the Geological Society of America, supports graduate students pursuing research in environmental and engineering geology. Award amounts vary annually, with at least one scholarship for Master's and one for Doctoral research. The program encourages applications from women, minorities, and persons with disabilities, and requires evaluations from two faculty members. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed, emphasizing the competitive nature of the funding.
Engineering Geology

Northeast SARE: Partnership Grant Program

Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education
Federal Government
Connecticut, Delaware +11 more
US $30,000
The Northeast SARE Partnership Grant Program supports innovative projects that enhance sustainable agriculture practices through collaboration between agricultural service providers and farmers. With funding up to $30,000, the program encourages research and education initiatives that address sustainability challenges in Northeast farming systems. It aims to foster partnerships that lead to better agricultural practices and community well-being, focusing on involving farmers directly in project development.
Sustainable Agriculture & Agroecology

Gerald M. Friedman Fund Grant

Society for Sedimentary Geology (SEPM)
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The Gerald M. Friedman Fund Grant, established in 2002, honors the contributions of Gerald M. Friedman to sedimentary geology. It supports graduate students in their research and travel for professional development. Eligible candidates must be in good academic standing and have completed at least one semester of graduate study. This fund, initiated by Friedman's former students, reflects his legacy in academia and the field of sedimentary geology.
Sedimentology

Native American Artist Fellowships: Ron and Susan Dubin Native Artist Fellowship

School for Advanced Research (SAR)
Private
New Mexico
Unspecified amount
The Ron and Susan Dubin Native Artist Fellowship, part of the Indian Arts Research Center, provides support for Native American artists through a three-month residency. Artists receive a monthly stipend, housing, studio space, and access to collections, encouraging exploration and creativity in various disciplines including painting, photography, and performance. Applications are open to indigenous individuals from North America, and the fellowship emphasizes traditional artistry, running from June 15 to August 15.
Native American Culture & Heritage

VA Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP): Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Virginia
State/Local Government
Virginia
Unspecified amount
The VA Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP): Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) provides essential financial and technical assistance for the restoration and protection of wetlands. This program helps landowners enhance habitat for wildlife, improve water quality, and mitigate flooding. NRCS offers various enrollment options, including permanent and 30-year easements, ensuring comprehensive support for landowners. With year-round applications, ACEP is committed to conserving vital agricultural lands and wetlands across Virginia.
Land / Habitat Conservation

AGRI Livestock Investment Grant

Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA)
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $400 - US $25,000
The AGRI Livestock Investment Grant, offered by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, provides funding for livestock operations to enhance infrastructure and equipment. Eligible projects can receive up to 10% of total costs, with grants ranging from $400 to $25,000 for improvements in livestock housing and facilities. Applications are accepted for efforts that modernize operations, with a project completion deadline of three years. This initiative aims to support sustainable growth in Minnesota's agricultural sector.
Livestock & Ranching

Dairy Business Planning Grant

Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA)
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $500 - US $5,000
The Dairy Business Planning Grant supports Minnesota dairy farms and processors by funding 50% of the cost, up to $5,000, for hiring experts to provide technical assistance. This includes evaluations of operations, legal advice for transitions, and expansion plans. Approximately $83,000 is available each fiscal year, enabling applicants to request grants between $500 and $5,000. The grant also requires a comprehensive business plan report to be submitted with reimbursement requests, outlining goals and financial projections.
Livestock & Ranching

AGRI Beginning Farmer FBM Scholarships

Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA)
State/Local Government
Minnesota
Unspecified amount
The AGRI Beginning Farmer Farm Business Management Scholarship offers financial assistance to eligible Minnesota farmers seeking to enhance their business management skills. This program supports farmers with fewer than 40 credits of instruction, aiming to create profitable farming operations. Each scholarship covers up to 50% of tuition for up to 40 credits. The initiative is managed by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, ensuring a tailored approach to meet the unique needs of beginning farmers.
Farms & Farming

Agricultural Chemical Response and Reimbursement Account Grant

Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA)
State/Local Government
Minnesota
Up to US $439,200
The Agricultural Chemical Response and Reimbursement Account Grant, managed by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, offers financial assistance for cleaning up pesticide and fertilizer incidents. Eligible parties can receive reimbursement for up to 80% of corrective action costs exceeding $1,000, with a maximum limit of $439,200. The application must be submitted at least 30 days before a board meeting for consideration, with 60 days recommended. Compliance with state regulations is essential for eligibility.
Agricultural Pest Management

Ittleson Foundation: Mental Health Grant Program

Ittleson Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Ittleson Foundation, established in 1932, focuses on enhancing mental health, AIDS prevention, and environmental initiatives. It funds not-for-profit organizations aiming to improve public policy and the lives of citizens. The Foundation is particularly interested in innovative projects addressing mental health stigma, advancing preventative efforts, and supporting underserved populations. While it funds new initiatives, it does not typically support capital projects, endowments, or direct service programs outside New York City.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases

TN Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP): Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Tennessee
State/Local Government
Tennessee
Unspecified amount
The TN Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) offers Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) to assist private and tribal landowners in protecting and restoring wetlands affected by agriculture. This program provides significant benefits, including improved water quality, enhanced wildlife habitat, and resilience to climate change. NRCS covers all costs associated with the easement process, ensuring landowners can effectively restore their wetlands through various enrollment options, including permanent and term easements.
Land / Habitat Conservation

TN Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Tennessee
State/Local Government
Tennessee
More than US $4,000
The Tennessee Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) assists producers in enhancing their conservation practices and improving land management. By providing technical and financial support, CSP helps participants develop tailored conservation plans to address resource challenges and implement effective practices. Eligible applicants include individuals and entities managing agricultural land, with a focus on sustainability and resilience. The program aims to promote environmental stewardship while supporting agricultural productivity and fostering a healthier ecosystem.
Farms & Farming

TN Grants for Local Area Apiary Inspectors

Tennessee Department of Agriculture
State/Local Government
Tennessee
Unspecified amount
The TN Grants for Local Area Apiary Inspectors are designed to support County or Area Beekeeping Associations in the inspection of honeybee colonies. Since 1995, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture has allocated $22,050 for these grants, awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. This funding enables associations to hire qualified bee inspectors to ensure the health and safety of honeybee populations, ultimately benefiting local agriculture and ecosystems.
Apiculture / Beekeeping

TN Specialty Crop Block Grants (SCBG)

Tennessee Department of Agriculture
State/Local Government
Tennessee
Unspecified amount
The Tennessee Specialty Crop Block Grants (SCBG) aim to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture supports projects that positively impact local agriculture, focusing on innovative solutions that benefit multiple producers. Key outcomes include increasing consumer purchasing, expanding production access, and enhancing food safety. Eligible applicants include universities and community organizations, while start-ups are not funded.
Agricultural Crops

TN Agricultural Resources Conservation Fund Grant

Tennessee Department of Agriculture
State/Local Government
Tennessee
Unspecified amount
The TN Agricultural Resources Conservation Fund Grant supports Tennessee landowners in implementing Best Management Practices (BMPs) to mitigate agricultural water pollution. Through cost-share assistance, landowners can install BMPs that address soil erosion and water runoff issues. The program, facilitated by Soil Conservation Districts, encourages educational projects to raise awareness about soil and water quality. Applications are encouraged on a watershed basis, focusing on streams and rivers identified as impaired by agricultural activities.
Farms & Farming

AAD Annual Meeting Registration Scholarship Program

American Academy of Dermatology
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The AAD Annual Meeting Registration Scholarship Program offers scholarships to international dermatologists, excluding those from the U.S. and Canada, to support their attendance at the AAD's Annual Meeting. Each country can nominate up to two applicants, who will receive complimentary registration, access to a post-graduate session, and an invitation to the International Scholarship Recipient Reception. This initiative promotes global participation in dermatology.
Skin Diseases & Dermatology

Clarence S. Livingood, MD, Memorial Award and Lectureship

American Academy of Dermatology
Association/Society
United States
US $10,000
The Clarence S. Livingood, MD, Memorial Award and Lectureship recognizes outstanding contributions to dermatology. Established by the Department of Dermatology at Henry Ford Hospital, it honors Dr. Livingood's legacy. The award includes a $10,000 cash prize and the opportunity to present a lecture at the AAD Annual Meeting. Nominations are accepted annually until January 15, remaining active for five years, and are open to experts beyond dermatologists, emphasizing communication and expertise in relevant issues.
Skin Diseases & Dermatology

Everett C. Fox, MD, Memorial Lectureship

American Academy of Dermatology
Association/Society
United States
US $10,000
The Everett C. Fox, MD, Memorial Lectureship honors a distinguished dermatologist and offers a $10,000 award to the selected lecturer, who will present a 30-minute lecture at the AAD's Innovation Academy. Nominations are open until June 15 for the upcoming selection cycle, with entries held for five years. Candidates must be practicing clinical dermatologists with proven communication skills, ensuring the recognition of expertise within the field.
Skin Diseases & Dermatology

AAD Young Investigator Awards

American Academy of Dermatology
Association/Society
Canada, United States
US $6,000
The AAD Young Investigator Awards recognize promising dermatology researchers in the U.S. and Canada, offering a $6,000 prize and plaque for outstanding research in either basic/translational or clinical tracks. Eligible applicants must have a DO, MD, or PhD, and their research should be completed and submitted for publication. The application window is open from June 1 to September 1, encouraging diversity within research topics and applicants.
Skin Diseases & Dermatology

Allen Foundation Grant - Academic Research

Allen Foundation Inc.
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Allen Foundation Grant supports initiatives that enhance human nutrition through research, education, and training. It prioritizes projects that develop nutritional programs, including mandatory nutrition courses in medical schools and sustainable food systems. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based non-profits or governmental entities with a focus on nutrition education and research. The foundation encourages proposals that include matching funds and has specific criteria for academic research and budgetary self-sufficiency.
Nutrition & Healthy Eating

Donaghue Foundation: Another Look Grant

Patrick and Catherine Weldon Donaghue Medical Research Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Donaghue Foundation's Another Look Grant focuses on enhancing health and well-being for older adults in long-term care facilities. It prioritizes research that utilizes existing datasets and includes stakeholders to inform project development. High-priority topics include improving palliative care, workforce innovations, and addressing disparities in care quality. This program is open to PhD investigators from tax-exempt institutions in the U.S., aiming to foster impactful health-related research that enhances care quality for seniors.
Residential Care & Nursing Homes

DE Forest Legacy Program (FLP)

Delaware Forest Service
State/Local Government
Kent County, Delaware, New Castle County, Delaware +1 more
Unspecified amount
The DE Forest Legacy Program (FLP), funded by the U.S. Forest Service, aims to safeguard working forestlands from development through conservation easements or outright purchases. This initiative supports landowners in maintaining forest stewardship plans, ensuring sustainable forest management. With federal funding covering up to 75% of project costs, the program promotes collaboration among state, local, and private entities. Delaware's AON, approved in 1998, identifies key forest areas for protection, enhancing habitat, timber resources, and water quality.
Land / Habitat Conservation

LA Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP): Agricultural Land Easements (ALE)

USDA: Natural Resource Conservation Service of Louisiana
State/Local Government
Louisiana
Unspecified amount

Agricultural Conservation Easement Program

The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) protects the agricultural viability and related conservation values of eligible land by limiting nonagricultural uses which negatively affect agricultural uses and conservation values, protect grazing uses and related conservation values by restoring or conserving eligible grazing land, and protecting and restoring and enhancing wetlands on eligible land.

Agricultural Land Easements

Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) help private and tribal landowners, land trusts, and other entities such as state and local governments protect croplands and grasslands on working farms and ranches by limiting non-agricultural uses of the land through conservation easements.

Benefits

Agricultural Land Easements protect the long-term viability of the nation’s food supply by preventing conversion of productive working lands to non-agricultural uses. Land protected by agricultural land easements provides additional public benefits, including environmental quality, historic preservation, wildlife habitat and protection of open space. Additionally, ALE easements leverage local partnerships to match NRCS funding and local partners are responsible for the long-term stewardship of the easement.

How does it work?

NRCS provides financial assistance to eligible partners for purchasing Agricultural Land Easements that protect the agricultural use and conservation values of eligible land.

For working farms, the program helps farmers and ranchers keep their land in agriculture. Under the Agricultural Land Easement component, NRCS may contribute up to 50 percent of the fair market value of the agricultural land easement.

The program also protects grazing uses and related conservation values by conserving grassland, including rangeland, pastureland and shrubland. Where NRCS determines that grasslands of special environmental significance will be protected, NRCS may contribute up to 75 percent of the fair market value of the agricultural land easement.

Agricultural Land Easements are permanent or for the maximum term allowed by law.

Land / Habitat Conservation

Berks County Tennis Fund Grant

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Berks County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Berks County Tennis Fund Grant aims to promote the sport of tennis in Berks County by supporting community programs that enhance accessibility and participation. These initiatives will focus on providing equipment and lessons to disadvantaged youth, fostering self-esteem in individuals with disabilities, and encouraging fitness and leadership through tennis. The goal is to improve the quality of life for all residents while cultivating skills such as patience and discipline through this lifelong sport.
Tennis

Conservation Equity Fund - Permanent Endowment Pool

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Berks County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Conservation Equity Fund, established by the Berks County Community Foundation, aims to protect and conserve open spaces, environmentally sensitive lands, and historic properties across Berks County, including farmland. This fund plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable land use and preserving the natural heritage of the region, ensuring that future generations can enjoy and benefit from these valuable resources. Supporting local initiatives, it strengthens community ties while enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Land / Habitat Conservation

Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Professional development grants for nonprofits provide funding to enhance staff skills, leadership training, and organizational growth. The following grants help nonprofits improve efficiency, adapt to challenges, and achieve long-term sustainability in their mission-driven work.


Search Instrumentl's Professional Development Grants Database


Explore 8,000+ funding opportunities for professional development, with $3.34B in resources. Instrumentl helps organizations grow by providing grant-matching tools, deadline tracking, and funder insights to support career advancement and success.

Grant Insights : Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Quite common — grants in this category are more prevalent than in others.

8,000+ Professional Development grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

3,000+ Professional Development grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

3,000+ Professional Development grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

1,000+ Professional Development grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

7,000+ Professional Development grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Economic Services & Development

300+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Domestic Violence

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Professional Development grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
29.7%
Q2
24.7%
Q3
23.5%
Q4
22.1%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $32,500.

$0 $0 Min.
$32,500 $32.5 K Median
$633,837 $633.8 K Average
$188,250,000 $188.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

Professional development grants are available for nonprofits focused on workforce training, leadership development, skill-building, and support for their staff and volunteers. These grants are ideal for organizations looking to boost their team’s skills and impact. Funders often prioritize nonprofits that serve underrepresented communities, focus on equity in leadership, or have a clear plan for using professional development to improve their mission-driven work.

Grants in professional development typically have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q1, with 29.7% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q4.

The main goal of professional development grants is to help nonprofit teams grow, improve, and become more effective. Funders see professional development grants as an investment for nonprofit professionals to improve their skills, ultimately leading to better leadership, stronger services, and more sustainable organizations. These grants often support leadership training, technical skill development, and mentorship programs that help teams with ongoing learning opportunities.

On average, grants in professional development provide funding between $0 and $188,250,000, with typical awards falling around $32,500 (median) and $633,837 (average). These insights can help nonprofits align their funding requests with what grantmakers typically offer in this space.

Professional development grants are typically funded by private foundations, corporate sponsors, and government agencies. Organizations like the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and Kresge Foundation are known for funding initiatives to build organizational capacity. Some corporations also provide grants to nonprofits that align with their workforce development goals, helping to create stronger communities and more skilled nonprofit professionals.

To improve the chances of receiving private grants, nonprofits should:

  • Research funders carefully – Get to know private funders by learning about their mission, past grant recipients, and funding priorities.
  • Be clear about your goals and expected results – Outline measurable outcomes, how the funds will be used, and what you hope to achieve. Having a history of success can also make your application more convincing.
  • Show financial responsibility – Prove you have good money management and a plan for long-term financial sustainability beyond the grant.
  • Build connections – Meet with grantmakers through networking events, email introductions, or funder Q&As.

Struggling to manage multiple grants? Learn how to stay organized with our comprehensive grant tracking spreadsheet guide.

Instrumentl simplifies the process of applying for professional development grants by offering an intuitive platform that helps nonprofits discover relevant funding opportunities, track deadlines, and analyze funder-giving patterns. The platform's automated alerts ensure users never miss a deadline, while detailed funder insights help organizations tailor their applications to align with grantor priorities.

See how Instrumentl helps you discover grants, cultivate relationships, and apply for funding.