Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Anishinaabe Arts Initiative Fellowship Award, funded by the Region 2 Arts Council, provides $5,000 to support an Indigenous artist in Minnesota. This fellowship aims to nurture artistic growth and innovation while promoting the cultural heritage of the Anishinaabe community. Eligible applicants must be Indigenous artists residing in specific Minnesota counties and meet various criteria, including compliance with the Indian Arts and Crafts Act. The fellowship encourages exploration, collaboration, and depth in artistic endeavors.

The Mission Boost Grants (MBG) by the American Cancer Society aim to enhance cancer research by funding projects that translate into human testing. These grants support investigators at all levels, offering resources for innovative clinical projects. The program consists of two funding stages: Stage I focuses on developing clear milestones for new treatments, while Stage II supports patient testing, ultimately contributing to advancements in cancer care and treatment.

Each year, Innovia awards over $500,000 in scholarships to deserving students like you who are college-bound or pursuing vocational or technical training. Single scholarship awards range between $500 and $10,000.

Eilleen Hutchison Scholarship

Primary factors for consideration are academic achievement, financial need and good personal character. Previous recipients of this award are eligible to reapply.

The Western Institute of Nursing Research Grant is designed to support registered nurses in advancing nursing through research. Funded jointly by the Sigma Foundation for Nursing and WIN, this grant offers $10,000 annually for pilot or developmental research projects. Eligible applicants must hold a current nursing license, possess a doctoral degree or be enrolled in a doctoral program, and be a member of Sigma and WIN. Applications are accepted through an online submission system.

The American Cancer Society's Mentored Research Grants for Postdoctoral Fellowships (PF) aim to support emerging researchers in their training programs, fostering their transition to independent cancer research careers. Eligible candidates include US citizens or non-citizens with valid visas who have completed their doctoral degrees within the last four years. The fellowship offers funding for up to three years, with stipends of $66,000 to $70,000 annually, alongside allowances for health insurance and professional development.

The Lily Palmer Fry Memorial Grant, managed by Bank of America, focuses on supporting summer camp opportunities for underserved children. Established in 1954, this grant prioritizes traditional camp programs that allow urban children to experience the natural environment, promoting their personal growth and development. By targeting specific community needs, the grant aims to provide enriching outdoor experiences that foster a sense of belonging and adventure for children in urban settings.

The Section 6 Competitive (Nontraditional) Grants program, administered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation, supports habitat conservation through three grant types: Planning Assistance, Land Acquisition under Habitat Conservation Plans, and Recovery Land Acquisition. Since 2004, over $110 million has been allocated to more than 225 projects, benefiting 450 species. The program also funds 6 to 9 Traditional grants annually and 0 to 4 Nontraditional grants, with varying request for proposals each year.

South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association

The South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association was founded in 1905 by a group of determined fire service leaders committed to strengthening the fire service through education, training, benefit provision, and legislative representation. Today, our mission stands: to serve the membership as the leader in fire service advocacy, benefits, education, and safety, while acting as the steward of the Firemen’s Insurance and Inspection Fund.

To fulfill this mission, the Association is supported by a family of programs and organizations that extend our reach and impact. These include the South Carolina Firefighters Foundation, the South Carolina Burned Children’s Fund (operating under the Foundation), the South Carolina Firefighters Insurance Services, and the South Carolina Firefighters Assistance Team.

Chief Carter Jones Leadership Scholarship

Carter Jones served the people of Clarendon County as fire chief for 22 years. Chief Jones, involved in the fire service for over five decades, was the 33rd president of the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association. Chief Jones has worked for many years to promote and lead the Association to the betterment of its members. Carter loves history and works tirelessly to document the history of the South Carolina fire service on a statewide and local level. Carter is the definition of a leader and is dedicated to his community and his church. Carter personifies all which the Foundation represents.

The Foundation has established an annual scholarship to honor the dedication and love that Chief Jones gives to the citizens of the state of South Carolina and South Carolina’s fire service.

Applicants must complete the application, offer a letter of support from the applicant’s Fire Chief, and provide a general reference letter of support from a person of the applicant’s choosing. 

The Clinician Scientist Development Grant (CSDG) by the American Cancer Society supports full-time faculty aiming to become independent clinician scientists while maintaining clinical practice. Eligible applicants must hold a doctoral degree, an active clinical license, and have clinical care experience. The grant provides funding of $135,000 annually for 3 to 5 years, including allowable indirect costs, to advance cancer research in key priority areas.

About Us

As a tax-exempt, public charity, the SouthCoast Community Foundation offers donors the guidance and flexibility to fulfill their philanthropic goals. We serve a range of charitable individuals, families, and corporations whose main concern is improving the quality of life in our community.

The SouthCoast Community Foundation allocates individual, family, and corporate funds to meet community needs. To date, the organization has distributed over $60 million from more than 200 funds to humanitarian, educational, and cultural organizations in the region.

Scholarship Resources

The SouthCoast Community Foundation is proud to offer scholarship opportunities to students in our community. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with more than $800k awarded to local students each year.

Most SouthCoast Community Foundation scholarships are available through our online scholarship portal. Unless otherwise noted, scholarships are available through the Universal Application, which automatically pairs eligible students with all available scholarships.

Jacobs Family New Bedford High School Scholarship

The Jacobs Family New Bedford High School Scholarship Fund of the SouthCoast Community Foundation provides 5 four-year scholarships, up to $35,000. The Scholarships are distributed to graduating seniors from: New Bedford Global Learning Charter School (1), New Bedford High School (3), Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School (1). Recipients must attend an accredited college or university and major in science fields including computer science, mathematics, and engineering.

About Us

As a tax-exempt, public charity, the SouthCoast Community Foundation offers donors the guidance and flexibility to fulfill their philanthropic goals. We serve a range of charitable individuals, families, and corporations whose main concern is improving the quality of life in our community.

The SouthCoast Community Foundation allocates individual, family, and corporate funds to meet community needs. To date, the organization has distributed over $60 million from more than 200 funds to humanitarian, educational, and cultural organizations in the region.

Scholarship Resources

The SouthCoast Community Foundation is proud to offer scholarship opportunities to students in our community. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with more than $800k awarded to local students each year.

Most SouthCoast Community Foundation scholarships are available through our online scholarship portal. Unless otherwise noted, scholarships are available through the Universal Application, which automatically pairs eligible students with all available scholarships.

New Bedford Half Marathon Committee Scholarship

The New Bedford Half Marathon Committee Fund of the SouthCoast Community Foundation was established to provide college scholarships to graduating seniors who are runners participating in track, cross country or a related interscholastic athletic program from New Bedford High School, Dartmouth High School, or Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School.

The Minnesota Nurses Association Foundation (MNAF) offers scholarships to support nursing professionals and students. With a commitment to healthcare quality, MNAF empowers MNA members, their families, and veterans to pursue their educational goals. The scholarships enhance nursing practice and leadership, ensuring access to quality healthcare for all. MNAF's mission reflects a dedication to social justice and public health, promoting the welfare of nurses and the communities they serve. Applications are welcomed from eligible candidates seeking to advance their nursing careers.

The Minnesota Racial Equity Fund Grant aims to foster lasting change by supporting organizations in the Twin Cities that address historic systemic racism affecting communities of color. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $10,000, focusing on employment, education, and community safety. Only tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations in Hennepin and Ramsey counties are eligible. This initiative is part of H.B. Fuller Company Foundation's commitment to racial equity and community empowerment.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) and the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) co-fund the Clinician Scientist Development Grant (CSDG), aimed at advancing the research careers of clinician scientists in radiation oncology. Eligible applicants are full-time faculty members at U.S. institutions with a doctoral degree and an active clinical license. The grant supports research for 3 to 5 years, providing $135,000 annually for direct costs, plus allowable indirect costs, while encouraging diversity in applications.

Success Scholarship (NCF)

Provides scholarships to students in Council Rock School District who have received Emotional Support services during their school years.

About NYFA

We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit service organization that offers in-person and virtual arts programs, services, and opportunities, tailored to the needs of our creative community.

Our Mission

Established in 1971, the mission of the New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA) is to empower artists in all disciplines, as well as cultural workers, to achieve success on their own terms by providing critical support, resources, and opportunities. NYFA envisions a world where artists thrive in the practice and expression of their creative work, a world that celebrates and supports them. We serve approximately 1M constituents in person and online, annually, through four flagship programs: Learning, Awards & Grants, Fiscal Sponsorship, and Online Resources.

Artist as Entrepreneur Program

An intensive professional development program for artists of all disciplines, ranging from 1 to 3.5 days.

The NYSCA/NYFA Artist as Entrepreneur Program is an intensive professional development opportunity that serves artists and creatives of all disciplines (including visual, literary, and performing arts, among others). This 3.5 day program delves into the fundamental principles of sustainability in the arts, empowering artists with the tools to imagine and pursue success as they define it.

Whether you’re looking for a shift in thinking, strategies for your arts/creative business, or peer networks, this program provides dynamic planning tools for building a blueprint for your creative practice or arts project.

This program is made possible through New York State Council on the Arts, State & Local Partnerships with the support of the Governor’s Office and the New York State Legislature.

NYSCA/NYFA Artist as Entrepreneur Program, Presented by Saratoga Arts

Artists of all disciplines based in Saratoga, Fulton, and Montgomery Counties in New York State are encouraged to apply to participate in this FREE entrepreneurial program to be presented in Saratoga Springs, NY by Saratoga Arts from October 22-25, 2026.

The GA Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program, managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, aims to enhance recreational opportunities in urban areas lacking access to outdoor spaces. Launched on November 8, 2023, the program prioritizes projects that engage communities, create public-private partnerships, and address local recreation needs. With a focus on promoting health and reducing environmental stress, it seeks to transform park deserts into accessible green spaces, benefiting residents and fostering community well-being.

Summer Youth Work Experience Program (SYWEP)

 The FY 2026 Summer Youth Work Experience Program (SYWEP) is being funded to provide in-school and out-of-school youth, ages 16-24, with valuable summer work experiences in order to help them successfully transition to the world of work.

Start Date and End Date of Grant Program:

• April 1, 2026 - October 31, 2026

Funding Amount:

• $8,000,000

Applications must not exceed a maximum cost per participant of $4,160. The cost-per participant is calculated as the total grant funds requested (including administrative costs) divided by the proposed number of participants to be enrolled. Further detail regarding allowable costs can be found in Section H.8.

Final awards are contingent upon State allocation of funds. The applicant’s budget must be well considered, necessary for the implementation of the program, and within the funding parameters. Final amounts will be determined at the time of pre-contract revisions. Ineligible, inappropriate or undocumented costs will be removed from the funding request. SYWEP programs may be considered for a continuance of up to an additional year, contingent upon successful performance of the program/grantees and upon the availability of funds.

The NWT Recreation & Parks Swim to Survive Grant offers financial assistance for organizations to host Swim to Survive® events in selected regional centers. Grants aim to promote water safety by teaching vital survival skills in deep water. Eligible applicants include community organizations that provide free events or accessible recreation equipment. This initiative encourages community engagement while adhering to public health guidelines, ensuring a safe and beneficial experience for all participants.

The McMillen Foundation, established in 1947, is a private charitable foundation that supports 501(c)(3) organizations primarily in Fort Wayne and Allen County. With a focus on capital expenditures, it aims to benefit as many individuals as possible over the longest period. Notably, the foundation does not fund private foundations, churches, or individuals, and typically does not support educational institutions. It is renowned for its commitment to community development and long-term impact.

The Florence Foundation Grants support educational, scientific, and charitable initiatives, focusing on Texas-based 501(c)(3) organizations, especially in Dallas County. Established in 1956, the foundation has awarded over $3 million to assist in various areas including public education, scientific research, and community welfare. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, with a preference for projects that address significant social issues and enhance community well-being.

The NJ Agricultural Conservation Easement Program: Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) supports private and tribal landowners in protecting, restoring, and enhancing degraded wetlands due to agricultural activities. This program encourages collaboration among state agencies, local governments, and organizations to enroll eligible lands into easements, thereby improving water quality, providing wildlife habitat, and promoting biodiversity. The voluntary nature of the program ensures effective integration of wetland restoration into working landscapes, benefiting both landowners and their communities.

The Chartercare Senior Wellness & Safety Grant supports health and wellness programs for the elderly in Rhode Island. It emphasizes structured quality of life initiatives, safety training, and community engagement. Applicants must be Rhode Island 501(c)(3) organizations, focusing on underserved populations. Proposals should demonstrate a clear scope, measurable outcomes, and collaborative efforts with other nonprofits. Preference is given to new initiatives addressing significant community needs, ensuring broad geographic representation and client reach.

The ILA Exemplary Reading Program Award, presented by the International Literacy Association, recognizes exceptional reading and language arts programs across all grade levels in Canada and the United States. This award aims to highlight outstanding educational efforts that promote literacy improvement and excellence among school staff. Eligible programs must submit comprehensive applications showcasing their entire reading initiatives, serving as models for others. Winning schools gain recognition while contributing to the advancement of literacy education.

The Lake Champlain Basin Program is inviting proposals for its Artist-in-Residence Grant Programs, aimed at fostering innovative projects that engage artists in utilizing scientific and cultural data to enhance the understanding of the region's natural resources. With approximately $80,000 in funding available, grants of up to $40,000 will be awarded to support sustainable AiR programs. This initiative seeks to promote artistic engagement with the Lake Champlain Basin's ecological and historical context.

The Brooks and Joan Fortune Family Foundation Grant supports educational, artistic, and outreach initiatives. Applications are accepted year-round, with a focus on projects that yield specific outcomes rather than general operating expenses. While historically centered in Indiana and Florida, the foundation welcomes proposals from across the country. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) designation. This grant is an excellent opportunity for nonprofits aiming to make a tangible impact in their communities.

The Engagement Award: Convening Support fosters meaningful collaboration among patients, caregivers, clinicians, and other stakeholders in research. Initiated by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI), this program aims to enhance patient engagement throughout the research process. By providing tools and resources, the award supports initiatives that improve healthcare delivery and outcomes, ensuring that patient perspectives are integral to research efforts.