Upcoming Webinar
Instrumentl Fall Launch: Grant Work, Leveled Up.
Thu, Oct 29 or 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.

32,000+

Available grants

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ 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

32,423 Results based on applied filters

Hmong Community Higher Education Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Hmong Community Higher Education Scholarship supports Hmong students from Marathon, Lincoln, or Shawano Counties in Wisconsin. It awards scholarships to high school seniors and current college students pursuing any undergraduate degree. Over 200 students will benefit from more than $300,000 in scholarships, emphasizing academic achievement and community commitment. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a GPA of 3.2 or higher for high school seniors and 2.8 for college students, and must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Steinmetz Scholarships for Fieldwork Participation for Active/Reserve Military or Veterans

American Society of Overseas Research (ASOR)
Private
Armenia, Croatia +19 more
US $2,000
The Steinmetz Scholarships for Fieldwork Participation support U.S. military personnel and veterans in archaeological excavations. Established in 2019, these scholarships provide two awards of $2,000 each for participation in ASOR-affiliated projects. ASOR has a long history of funding archaeological research, having awarded over $1 million to more than 900 recipients since 2007. This initiative aims to broaden access to fieldwork opportunities for those who have served in the military.
Archaeology Military & Veterans Services

Connexus Association Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Connexus Association Scholarship provides over $300,000 in scholarships to more than 200 students in north central Wisconsin, targeting high school seniors from specific districts. Eligible candidates must have a minimum 3.5 GPA and plan to pursue post-secondary education in Business or Education. The scholarship prioritizes applicants aiming for bachelor's degrees and those studying Education, Finance, or Accounting. The initiative is managed by the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, fostering community growth through educational support.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Marvin C. Schuette Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Marvin C. Schuette Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, offers financial assistance to children of Wausau Homes' employees pursuing post-secondary education. With a focus on inclusivity, the scholarship aims to support individuals who may not qualify for traditional scholarships. It requires a minimum GPA of 2.0, but academic achievement is not the primary selection criterion, allowing a diverse range of applicants to benefit from this funding.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Conservation and Environment Fund Grants

North Texas Community Foundation
Private
Bosque County, Texas, Denton County, Texas +9 more
Up to US $35,000
The Conservation and Environment Fund Grants provide annual funding for the preservation of ranchland and open spaces in North Texas. These grants support projects aimed at conserving native species and habitats, as well as educational programs on the importance of land protection. Eligible organizations can receive up to $25,000 for conservation projects and $7,500 for educational initiatives, fostering environmental stewardship in multiple counties.
Land / Habitat Conservation

Kimberly A. Van Den Elzen Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Kimberly A. Van Den Elzen Memorial Scholarship supports individuals from central Wisconsin pursuing or advancing careers in Human Resources. Open to high school seniors, college students, and adults seeking further education, this scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities. Over 200 scholarships totaling more than $300,000 are awarded annually through the Community Foundation, fostering community growth and empowering future HR professionals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Archie C. Towle Aviation Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
Private
Wisconsin
Unspecified amount
The Archie C. Towle Aviation Scholarship, funded by the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin, offers financial assistance to students within a 50-mile radius of Wausau pursuing careers in aviation. With over $300,000 in scholarships available, it supports those demonstrating financial need and a passion for aviation. Eligible fields include Airline Pilot, Aircraft Mechanic, and Air Traffic Controller, among others, ensuring opportunities for future aviation professionals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Help Our Neighbors Grant Program

Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County
Private
Anne Arundel County, Maryland
US $500 - US $2,500
The Help Our Neighbors Grant Program, initiated by the Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County, provides vital emergency assistance to individuals and families in need. Grants range from $500 to $1,000, aimed at covering essential expenses like rent, utilities, and food. To qualify, organizations must operate in Anne Arundel County and possess a 501(c)(3) designation. The program emphasizes addressing urgent financial needs to help maintain independence.
Basic Human Needs Health Care Access & Delivery

Grants 4 Teachers

Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County
Private
Anne Arundel County, Maryland
Up to US $500
Grants 4 Teachers empowers Anne Arundel County educators by providing up to $500 for innovative classroom projects that would otherwise go unfunded. Launched in 2009, this initiative has distributed over $100,000 to enhance learning experiences across public schools. It supports diverse projects, from arts to science, fostering creativity and engagement among students. The Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County champions this program, promoting community involvement in education and ensuring that teachers' imaginative ideas come to life.
Education - K through 12 Academic Success & Enrichment

International Medical Graduates (IMG) Clinical Preparation Grant

Minnesota Department of Health
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $200,000 - US $700,000
The Clinical Preparation for International Medical Graduates Grant Program, authorized by Minnesota Statutes Section 144.1911, aims to support immigrant international medical graduates (IMGs) in overcoming barriers to practice. This initiative facilitates their integration into Minnesota's healthcare workforce by preparing them for medical residency programs, ultimately enhancing access to primary care in rural and underserved areas. By leveraging IMGs' diverse backgrounds, the program promotes culturally responsive healthcare services across Minnesota.
Medical Education & Professional Training Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Summit County: Building Hope Mental Health Scholarship

Vail Health Behavioral Health
Association/Society
Summit County, Colorado
Unspecified amount
The Summit County: Building Hope Mental Health Scholarship offers crucial support by providing up to 12 free mental health sessions for residents and employees in Summit County, Colorado. This initiative addresses the financial barriers that often prevent individuals from accessing necessary care. Accepted by various private providers, the scholarship ensures that those in need can receive therapy and psychiatric appointments without the burden of costs, fostering a healthier community.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Cognitive Intervention & Therapy

Athletics for Persons with Disabilities Grant

State of New Jersey Department of Community Affairs
State/Local Government
New Jersey
Unspecified amount

New Jersey Department of Community Affairs

The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) is a State agency created to provide administrative guidance, financial support and technical assistance to local governments, community development organizations, businesses and individuals to improve the quality of life in New Jersey.

DCA offers a wide range of programs and services, including local government management and finance, affordable housing production, fire safety, building safety, community planning and development, historic preservation, disaster recovery and mitigation, and information privacy.

Athletics for Persons with Disabilities Grant

Purpose of Grant

The purpose of this grant program is to provide funds to statewide, nonprofit athletic organizations serving athletes with disabilities to provide sports training and athletic competition.

Applicants must be able to provide athletic competition and sports training, throughout the state for athletes with disabilities. Applicants must be knowledgeable about and demonstrate the ability to work with athletes with disabilities. 

Disability Care & Services Sports & Athletics

Cohen Gordon B Great Scholarship Fund

Boreal Waters Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,000
The Cohen Gordon B Great Scholarship Fund honors Judy Gordon's legacy as a dedicated social worker and educator in Duluth. This fund supports students overcoming adversity, encouraging their pursuit of two-year or four-year degrees. Eligible applicants are graduates from any Duluth high school, with a preference for ESL or non-native English speakers. The scholarship awards $2,000 for one academic year, emphasizing the importance of resilience and belief in every student's potential.
Vocational & Trade Education Academic Scholarship Programs

A New Direction Grant

Angels Over Sandpoint
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Angels Over Sandpoint

Mission: It is the mission of the Angels Over Sandpoint to honor the memory of the Angels who have gone before us by helping those in need in our community.

A New Direction Grant

Amber Coffman Campbell Memorial Fund

Amber and her generous heart took time to genuinely listen, as good friends do. She saw the bright side of everyone and believed in the goodness in each person. Her blue eyes were luminous and her smile made everything right in the world. Bubbly and effervescent, Amber was a soul of happy endless optimistic youth.

In 2007 Amber and Darby Campbell were married at their new home on Sunny Side Road. She fell for his dashingly romantic side and was swept away with his humor and creative ideas. He adored her passionate energy and bright spirit. They loved the sun and surf …and each other. Amber always had an interest in beauty. She was a model in her younger days and on Maui she found the Esthetician school from which she graduated in 2003. She creatively blended the idea of beauty with the natural world and brought about a new spa in 2008. Her creation of Wildflower Day Spa took off. It was an unfolding of her dream.

Amber was passionate, inspiring and generous of spirit. She brought forth an idea that there was always something about to unfold, something magical just in front of us, that something beautiful would happen this very day. And it always did, she would find something delightful in her path, even the littlest thing and embrace it.

Although Amber left this world too soon, she has given us a gift of her unbidden joy that we carry around with us in our hearts. 

A New Direction Grant is offered to Bonner County residents seeking to better themselves by attending a college, university or trade school. 

You may use funds for tuition/registration to any college, university, technical school.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

CDPHE EMS and Trauma Funding: Provider and System Improvement Grants

Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE)
State/Local Government
Colorado
Up to US $432,000
The CDPHE EMS and Trauma Funding program for fiscal year 2026 aims to allocate approximately $6.1 million to enhance Colorado's emergency medical and trauma services. This funding is intended for organizations providing EMS and trauma services, including ambulance and first response agencies. Awardees must match 50% of project costs and can receive reimbursement for eligible expenses, ensuring effective utilization of resources to improve public health and safety.
Emergency Medical Care & Services

Franco Family Institute: Publication- Indexing Grant

University Of Notre Dame Du Lac
Private
Indiana
Up to US $1,500
The Franco Family Institute provides Publication Indexing Grants to support faculty in defraying indexing costs for their scholarly monographs. With awards up to $1,500, these grants are intended for the first edition of books and require acknowledgment of support in the published work. Faculty must apply individually, and grants are awarded competitively based on the quality of the press and the scholarly contribution. Priority is given to assistant and associate professors.
Writing & Literature Teacher Development & Training

Franco Family Institute: Publication Imaging Grant

University Of Notre Dame Du Lac
Private
Indiana
Up to US $2,000
The Franco Family Institute's Publication Imaging Grant supports faculty in publishing peer-reviewed scholarly monographs. It provides funding for publication costs, image acquisition, and professional indexing. Awards are competitive, prioritizing assistant and associate professors. Grants typically cover up to $2,000 for image costs, with exceptions possible for extraordinary circumstances. Applications are accepted from August 1 to May 31, emphasizing the importance of quality contributions and professional reputation in the review process.
Writing & Literature Teacher Development & Training

Franco Family Institute: Publication Subventions Grant

University Of Notre Dame Du Lac
Private
Indiana
Up to US $3,000
The Franco Family Institute offers the Publication Subvention Grant to support faculty in publishing scholarly monographs. This grant assists with publication costs, including professional indexing and image permissions. Applications are competitive and require a publisher's contract. Subventions are typically under $3,000, and funds must be returned if the book is not published. This grant prioritizes assistant and associate professors while excluding advisory and emeritus faculty.
Teacher Development & Training Writing & Literature

Sertoma Club Scholarship ($500)

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
US $500
The Sertoma Club Scholarship offers a $500 award to a senior from Beatrice High School who plans to continue their education at Southeast Community College-Beatrice Campus, provided funds are available. Established by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, which has been supporting educational opportunities since 1987, this scholarship prioritizes applicants with speech or hearing challenges, although this is not a strict requirement.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Sertoma Club Scholarship ($1000)

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
US $1,000
The Sertoma Club Scholarship offers a $1,000 award to a senior from Beatrice High School aiming to pursue further education. Established by the Beatrice Educational Foundation in 1987, the scholarship prioritizes applicants with speech or hearing challenges, although this is not mandatory. The Foundation manages a $3.8 million endowment and supports over $55,000 in scholarships annually, enriching educational opportunities within the Beatrice School District.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Shelter Insurance Foundation Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
US $2,000
The Shelter Insurance Foundation Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides $2,000 to a student pursuing any accredited course of study. Established in 1987, the foundation supports educational opportunities in Nebraska. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, citizenship, and moral character. With a robust $3.8 million endowment, the foundation annually grants over $55,000 to Beatrice High School seniors, ensuring ongoing support for local education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Smethers, Neva and Ernest, Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
US $1,000
The Smethers, Neva and Ernest Scholarship is offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, a nonprofit established in 1987. This $1,000 scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating senior girl from Beatrice High School, emphasizing active participation in school and community activities. Preference is given to female athletes who have played golf or softball for at least two years, supporting both educational and athletic pursuits within the community.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Smithfield Fresh Meats Corporation Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
US $1,000
The Smithfield Fresh Meats Corporation Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides two $1000 scholarships to graduating seniors from Beatrice High School. To be eligible, applicants must be dependents of current employees at Smithfield Fresh Meats Corporation facilities. The Foundation, established in 1987, manages a $3.8 million Endowment Fund and awards over $55,000 annually in scholarships to enhance educational opportunities for local students.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Sokolik, Irene, Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
US $750
The Sokolik, Irene, Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides a $750 award to graduating seniors of Beatrice High School. Established in 1987, the Foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities through financial support, managing a substantial Endowment Fund. To qualify, applicants must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher during their last two semesters. This scholarship reflects the Foundation's commitment to fostering academic achievement and supporting local students.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Stindt, Ben j., Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
US $1,000
The Stindt, Ben j., Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides a $1,000 award to a graduating senior of Beatrice High School. Established in 1987, the Foundation supports educational enrichment and scholarships with a $3.8 million Endowment Fund. Preference is given to students who are active in their Christian community, participate in athletics, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence both academically and athletically.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

St. John Lutheran College Educational Fund/ Spiritual Growth Fund Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
Unspecified amount
The St. John Lutheran College Educational Fund/Spiritual Growth Fund Scholarship, offered by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, provides financial support for students affiliated with St. John Lutheran Church. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate commitment to spiritual growth through various activities. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for eligible students pursuing their studies at Lutheran colleges, with the foundation managing a significant endowment to support their mission.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Taylor, Robert, Scholarship

Beatrice Educational Foundation
Association/Society
Gage County, Nebraska
US $5,000
The Taylor, Robert, Scholarship offers a $5,000 award to seniors graduating from Beatrice High School who plan to attend higher education. Established by the Beatrice Educational Foundation, it prioritizes students in the top 50% of their class, considering their school and community involvement. Preference is given to those pursuing careers in fine arts, communications, and education. Annually, the foundation supports local students with over $55,000 in scholarships, emphasizing a commitment to enriching educational opportunities.
Education - Higher 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.