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Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

Get professional development grants for nonprofit staff training, leadership growth, and skills-based learning.

32,000+

Available grants

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$9.00B total
$6K median

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32,423 Results based on applied filters

Duluth Public Schools Fund Grant

Boreal Waters Community Foundation
Private
St. Louis County, Minnesota
US $500 - US $5,000
The Duluth Public School Funds Grant Program, managed by Boreal Waters Community Foundation, awards grants ranging from $500 to $2000 annually to Duluth Public School staff for projects aimed at enhancing student growth. This year, due to remote learning challenges, grants between $500 and $5000 may also be awarded for mental health initiatives. The program emphasizes measurable skills, demonstrated needs, and aims to enrich the overall student experience.
Academic Success & Enrichment School Health

William C. and Margaret L. Parmer Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The William C. and Margaret L. Parmer Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, supports students from Green County, WI pursuing medical degrees at accredited institutions. With over 900 charitable funds, the Community Foundation enhances the quality of life in Southern Wisconsin through strategic philanthropy and grant management. This scholarship aims to empower future healthcare professionals, ensuring a positive impact on local communities.
Medical Education & Professional Training Academic Scholarship Programs

Upper Midwest Endurance & Competitive Riders Association Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Up to US $1,500
The Upper Midwest Endurance & Competitive Riders Association Scholarship, managed by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, offers financial support for post-high school education to members of the Association. Scholarships up to $1,500 are available for tuition and educational expenses at accredited institutions. Eligibility includes academic performance, recommendations, financial need, and active membership in the organization. This initiative fosters educational opportunities and community engagement among young riders.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Thomas B. and Grace Stevenson Jones Charitable Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Thomas B. and Grace Stevenson Jones Charitable Scholarship, administered by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, supports students from various high schools in the region. Eligible applicants must be attending an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 2.5. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities and promote community engagement, ultimately contributing to the local quality of life in Southern Wisconsin.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Sonya Sauer Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Sonya Sauer Scholarship, managed by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, supports students attending accredited colleges, universities, or technical schools full-time. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. Preference is given to those pursuing elementary education or religious studies, as well as to students demonstrating financial need. This initiative enhances educational opportunities for local students from Beloit Memorial, Janesville Craig, Janesville Parker, and Milton High Schools.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Ronald J. Jelinek Memorial Fund for Welding Education

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Ronald J. Jelinek Memorial Fund for Welding Education, managed by the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, provides scholarships for individuals seeking to enhance their welding skills. Open to residents of Rock County, this fund supports educational expenses including tuition, books, and necessary supplies. By bridging personal philanthropy with community needs, it aims to empower local students and adults in pursuing their educational goals in welding.
Vocational & Trade Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Rock Prairie United Presbyterian Church Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Rock Prairie United Presbyterian Church Scholarship, provided by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, supports current and past graduates from local high schools, emphasizing active church membership and community service. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities while connecting personal philanthropy with community needs, ensuring that local youth have access to necessary resources for their academic journeys.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Richard W. Rote Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Richard W. Rote Scholarship, managed by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, supports high school graduates from Monroe, WI, planning to attend accredited technical schools. While preference may be given to those demonstrating financial need, it is not a strict requirement. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities and empower local students, contributing positively to the community's future.
Academic Scholarship Programs Vocational & Trade Education

Zimmer Family Foundation Local Grants

Zimmer Family Foundation
Corporate
Sarasota County, Florida
Up to US $40,000
The Zimmer Family Foundation Local Grants support religious, educational, and social programs aimed at assisting the less fortunate. Based in Sarasota, Florida, the foundation primarily funds short-term pilot projects with a local focus in the greater Sarasota area. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) IRS Tax exempt organizations. Notably, funding for scholarships, capital support for land, and general operating expenses are generally excluded from consideration.
Human & Social Services Christianity Education

North Crawford Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The North Crawford Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, aims to provide educational opportunities for graduates of North Crawford High School. Students planning to attend an accredited college, university, or technical school with a minimum GPA of 2.5 are eligible to apply. This scholarship not only supports academic pursuits but also enhances the quality of life in Southern Wisconsin, aligning with the foundation's mission of matching personal philanthropy with community needs.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

CHHE Community Grant Program

Center for Human Health and the Environment (CHHE)
State/Local Government
North Carolina
Up to US $8,000
The CHHE Community Grant Program provides annual funding for community groups and educators to tackle environmental health issues. Grants of up to $8,000 support research, data analysis, and community engagement efforts. Preference is given to projects aligned with CHHE research. Over $200,000 has been awarded to date, fostering local capacity-building. Eligible applicants include secondary school educators and nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, with applications due mid to late September.
Environmental Health

Brian Morris College Gateway Scholarship Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Brian Morris College Gateway Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports full-time students pursuing a Bachelor's degree at accredited U.S. colleges. This renewable scholarship, available since 1964, is targeted at high school seniors from San Antonio, particularly those with financial need and a GPA of 3.33 or higher. The fund aims to empower students to achieve their educational goals, making a lasting impact on the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

William M. Cooper Scholarship

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Chemung County, New York
US $7,200
The William M. Cooper Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, supports high school seniors and adult learners from Chemung County. It values participation in extracurricular activities and considers GPA and SAT scores without requiring the highest grades. Financial need is preferred but not mandatory. This scholarship aims to ensure that educational opportunities are accessible to deserving students in Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

West Elmira Volunteer Fire Department

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Chemung County, New York
US $500
The West Elmira Volunteer Fire Department, affiliated with the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, offers scholarships for high school seniors and adult learners residing in Upstate New York or Northern Pennsylvania. This initiative aims to provide financial support for education and job skill acquisition, ensuring that cost does not hinder access to post-secondary opportunities. The foundation is dedicated to fostering community growth through educational funding.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Thomas A. Wallace Scholarship

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Chemung County, New York
US $1,000
The Thomas A. Wallace Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc., supports high school seniors and adult learners residing in Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. This scholarship aims to assist individuals demonstrating academic excellence and a commitment to community service. With a preference for financial need, it encourages access to post-secondary education, ensuring that cost is not a barrier. Applications require submission of the General Scholarship Application.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Stuart Komer Family Student Aid Award

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Chemung County, New York
US $3,300
The Stuart Komer Family Student Aid Award is provided by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc. This scholarship aims to support high school seniors and adult learners residing in Upstate New York or Northern Pennsylvania, emphasizing the importance of desire, effort, and work ethic over academic records. It encourages applicants from Chemung County High School and offers financial need-based preferences to ensure access to education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

The Corning-Elmira (NY) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Scholarship

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Schuyler County, New York
US $1,000
The Corning-Elmira Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Scholarship is dedicated to Black or African American male students in eligible high schools in Upstate New York. This scholarship aims to support those demonstrating leadership and financial need, ensuring that education remains accessible. Funded by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning, it helps deserving students pursue higher education and job skills without financial burden.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

The Fusion City University Scholarship

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Chemung County, New York, Schuyler County, New York +1 more
US $500
The Fusion City University Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc., provides financial assistance to high school seniors and adult learners in Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. Eligible candidates must complete 50 hours of community service at a Christian Church organization. This scholarship aims to remove barriers to education and supports those in need of funding to pursue college or vocational training.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

The Caton Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Steuben County, New York
US $15,200
The Caton Scholarship Fund, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc., supports high school seniors and adult learners residing in Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. This scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to dedicated students who demonstrate a strong work ethic. Applicants must submit the General Scholarship Application to be matched with available scholarships. Previous winners can reapply, emphasizing the foundation's commitment to educational access.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Scholarship for Math and English Educators

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Steuben County, New York
US $1,500
The Scholarship for Math and English Educators is offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc. It supports students studying education, with priority for those teaching English or math. Eligible candidates must enroll in a SUNY school and are predominantly from the Corning-Painted Post High School district or homeschooled in that area. This initiative aims to enhance educational access and opportunities for deserving students.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Philip and Shirley Giardina Memorial Scholarship for the Sciences

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Steuben County, New York
US $10,000
The Philip and Shirley Giardina Memorial Scholarship for the Sciences supports high school seniors and adult learners from Steuben County, NY, pursuing studies in chemistry or related fields. Administered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning, this scholarship aims to alleviate financial barriers to education, prioritizing applicants from Corning-Painted Post High School. Financial need is considered, but not mandatory for eligibility. The foundation is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities in the region.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Nate Wilson Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Steuben County, New York
US $1,500
The Nate Wilson Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc., supports high school seniors and adult learners from Steuben County, NY. Applicants must demonstrate strong character through sports and volunteering. The foundation aims to eliminate financial barriers to education, ensuring that deserving individuals have access to college or job skill training. Preference is given to graduates of Corning-Painted Post High School.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Live Like Liz Scholarship

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Schuyler County, New York
US $1,000
The Live Like Liz Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, supports high school seniors and adult learners residing in Upstate New York or Northern Pennsylvania. Applicants must demonstrate a solid academic record, good citizenship, and a sincere desire for further education. This scholarship aims to alleviate financial barriers to education, ensuring that deserving individuals can pursue their academic and vocational goals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Helen G. Schuyler Scholarship

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Steuben County, New York
US $22,000
The Helen G. Schuyler Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc., supports high school seniors and adult learners in Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. Eligible candidates must plan to study fine or decorative art in college, with a focus on various visual art disciplines. This scholarship aims to eliminate financial barriers to education, fostering access to post-secondary opportunities for deserving individuals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Barbara & Joseph C. Littleton Scholarship

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Steuben County, New York
US $2,500
The Barbara & Joseph C. Littleton Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, supports high school seniors and adult learners from Upstate New York or Northern Pennsylvania. Eligible applicants include those from families with single parents or non-parent guardians. Preference is given to students from Bath and Hammondsport with 80-90 averages, and those demonstrating self-initiative in academics or volunteerism. This scholarship aims to remove financial barriers to education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Anna, Pierre, and Ephraim Block Scholarship Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
Texas
More than US $2,500
The Anna, Pierre, and Ephraim Block Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports Texas residents who are current high school seniors. This renewable scholarship covers tuition, fees, and educational expenses for students pursuing an Associate, Bachelor's, or Graduate degree. To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain full-time enrollment with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Special consideration is given to those attending Texas colleges.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Tri Kappa Scholarship - Sue Crisman Memorial Scholarship

Crown Point Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Tri Kappa Scholarship - Sue Crisman Memorial Scholarship, established by the Crown Point Community Foundation, supports women over 21 who are returning to education after a significant gap and are involved in community service. This non-renewable scholarship aims to enhance the quality of life in South Lake County by providing financial assistance to deserving candidates. Award recipients are invited to a special Scholarship Awards Night, fostering community engagement and recognition.
Adult Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

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


Search Instrumentl's Professional Development Grants Database


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

Grant Insights : Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

300+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Domestic Violence

Grant Deadline Distribution

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

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

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

Typical Funding Amounts

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

Grants are most commonly $32,500.

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

Frequently asked questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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