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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

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

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Filters

32,595 Results based on applied filters

Mary J. Weber Memorial Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
US $5,000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Mary J. Weber Memorial Scholarship Fund

The purpose of the Mary J. Weber Scholarship Fund is to provide scholarships to high school graduates who intend to further their education at a two-year or four-year college or university or trade/technical school. Preference will be given to graduates of Shawnee Mission Northwest High School in Shawnee Mission, Kansas, and Andale High School in Andale, Kansas. The Fund is established in memory of Mary J. Weber, a 1960 graduate of Andale High School.

Scholarships are not automatically renewable, however scholarship recipients may re-apply in years after their initial receipt of the scholarship.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Marvin Brooks Educational Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Jackson County, Missouri
US $500

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Marvin Brooks Educational Fund

The Marvin Brooks Educational Fund continues Marvin Brooks’ dream of compassionate service to others through education. He devoted his life to education as a teacher, principal and leader in the Kansas City School District. The purpose of the Fund shall be to provide scholarships to graduating seniors from high schools in Jackson County, Missouri, who intend to further their education at a two-year or four-year college or university or technical school.

Scholarships will be supplemental for students who have already earned other scholarships.

The scholarship is renewable provided students reapply annually, continue to attend classes and demonstrate academic progress on their transcripts.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Kris Paper Legacy Scholarship for Women in Technology Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
Unspecified amount

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Kris Paper Legacy Scholarship for Women in Technology Fund

The Kris Paper Legacy Scholarship for Women in Technology Fund provides an annual scholarship to a graduating female high school senior or returning female college student who intends to further their education at a two-year or four-year college or university or at a vocational or technical school who share Kris Paper’s love of technology and will be seeking a degree in a technology related field.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Kilgore Family Pancreatic Cancer Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Clay County, Missouri, Douglas County, Kansas +4 more
US $1,000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Kilgore Family Pancreatic Cancer Scholarship Fund

The purpose of the Fund shall be to provide post-secondary scholarships to graduating seniors from high schools in the Greater Kansas City area who have personally been affected by pancreatic cancer and who plan to continue their education at a two-year or four-year college or university or at a technical school.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Synthomer Foundation Grants

Synthomer Foundation Inc
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Chester County, South Carolina +9 more
Unspecified amount
The Synthomer Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations across the U.S. in education, health, civic initiatives, and the arts. With a legacy spanning over 60 years, the Foundation has awarded $1.3 million in 2024 alone to enhance community well-being. Organizations must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) to qualify, while those that discriminate or engage in political activities are ineligible. Through financial support and volunteerism, the Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities and fostering a culture of giving.
Art & Culture Education Health & Medicine +1 more

Carlson Family Educational Foundation Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
US $5,000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Carlson Family Educational Foundation Fund

The purpose of this scholarship fund is to assist students who plan to attend junior college, trade schools, university or certification training who have demonstrated a strong work ethic both inside and outside the classroom.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Brandmeyer Scholarship

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
Unspecified amount

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Brandmeyer Scholarship

The Brandmeyer Scholarship provides financial assistance to students who have faced adversity and view education as a tool to help change the trajectory of their lives. Our scholars are seeking a brighter future by continuing their education at a two-year or four-year college or university (pursuing an associate, undergraduate and/or graduate degree) or at a vocational or technical school.

The Brandmeyer Scholarships are renewable provided students maintain a 3.0+ GPA each semester and give back by completing at least 10 hours of community service annually.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Aasheim Family Leadership Scholarship

Montana State University
State/Local Government
Gallatin County, Montana
Unspecified amount
The Aasheim Family Leadership Scholarship at Montana State University supports high-achieving students pursuing a degree in Agriculture. This merit-based scholarship is available to Montana high school graduates who demonstrate leadership and community involvement, maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0. Award amounts vary, providing financial assistance to help students succeed in their academic journeys.
Agriculture Academic Scholarship Programs

Messerli And Kramer Foundation Grant

Messerli And Kramer Foundation
Private
Minnesota
Unspecified amount
The Messerli And Kramer Foundation Grant aims to support Minnesota communities in addressing educational disparities faced by low-income and disadvantaged children and youth. Established in 2005, the foundation is guided by a diverse board involved in charitable initiatives. It seeks to fund organizations that are 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profits committed to making a meaningful impact in education for underserved populations.
Educational Access & Equity

Jenese Lynn Krysa Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Missouri
US $2,000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Jenese Lynn Krysa Scholarship Fund

The purpose of the Jenese Lynn Krysa Scholarship Fund is to provide an annual scholarship to graduating high school seniors, undergraduates or graduate students, who intend to further their education at a two-year or four-year accredited college or university in the state of Missouri, and are pursuing a degree in Accounting, Business or Marketing.

This is a one-time scholarship with no renewal.

Business Education Education - Higher Education

Hispanic Development Fund (High School Seniors)

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Cass County, Missouri, Clay County, Missouri +4 more
Approximately US $1,000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Hispanic Development Fund (High School Seniors)

For more than 40 years, the Hispanic Development Fund Scholarship Program has encouraged Hispanic/Latinx youth to attend college and accomplish their personal goals by awarding more than 6,539 scholarships totaling over $10 million to Kansas City-area students.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Hispanic Development Fund (Current College Students)

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Cass County, Missouri, Clay County, Missouri +4 more
Approximately US $1,000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Hispanic Development Fund (Current College Students)

For more than 40 years, the Hispanic Development Fund Scholarship Program has encouraged Hispanic/Latinx youth to attend college and accomplish their personal goals by awarding more than 6,539 scholarships totaling over $10 million to Kansas City-area students.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Hear 2 help Scholarship Fund

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
US $1,000

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Hear 2 help Scholarship Fund

The purpose of this scholarship is to provide opportunity for a Kansas or Missouri high school graduating senior who is Deaf/hard of hearing to further their education at either a 2 or 4 year college/university or technical program and reach their full potential.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Genevieve Edmee Lenz Guldner Kansas University Medical Center Scholarship

Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Private
Kansas, Missouri
Unspecified amount

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Genevieve Edmee Lenz Guldner Kansas University Medical Center Scholarship

The purpose of the fund shall be to provide scholarships to Kansas University Medical Center (“KUMC”) students.

 Renewable for 4 years if all requirements are met.

Education - Higher Education Medical Education & Professional Training

Jefferson Scholarships: Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship

Jefferson Community and Technical College
Federal Government
Kentucky
Unspecified amount
The Work Ready Kentucky Scholarship (WRKS) provides financial assistance to Kentucky residents who have not earned an associate’s degree, enabling them to pursue industry-recognized certificates or diplomas. This scholarship is aimed at supporting students in high-demand fields such as healthcare, construction, and manufacturing, ensuring they have the opportunity to gain valuable qualifications. With a focus on accessibility, WRKS helps alleviate the financial burden of education for eligible students across the state.
Vocational & Trade Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program: National Implementation Grants

Institute of Museum and Library Services
Federal Government
U.S. Territories, United States
US $75,000 - US $1,000,000

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program

Program Overview:

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian (LB21) projects build a library and archival workforce that can meet the information needs of communities and increase the institutional capacity of libraries, archives, and library and information science graduate programs across the country.  

The program supports projects that:  

  • provide training and professional development to library and archives professionals;  
  • develop faculty and information leaders; and 
  • recruit, educate, and retain the next generation of library and archives professionals. 

Projects can support the recruitment, education, training, and retention of pre-professionals, students, faculty, and the current library and archives workforce. 

Project Type

National Implementation

Library & Information Science Library Services Historical Records & Archives

Tuneski/Sheflott Scholarship

Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut
Private
Connecticut
Approximately US $1,500
The Tuneski/Sheflott Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, supports students of Irish or Polish heritage from Southeastern Connecticut who exhibit strong academic and extracurricular performance. With an approximate award of $1,500 per year for four years, this scholarship aims to assist deserving individuals in pursuing a four-year degree, fostering educational advancement and community development.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program: Early Career Research Grants

Institute of Museum and Library Services
Federal Government
U.S. Territories, United States
US $75,000 - US $750,000

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program

Program Overview:

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian (LB21) projects build a library and archival workforce that can meet the information needs of communities and increase the institutional capacity of libraries, archives, and library and information science graduate programs across the country.  

The program supports projects that:  

  • provide training and professional development to library and archives professionals;  
  • develop faculty and information leaders; and 
  • recruit, educate, and retain the next generation of library and archives professionals. 

Projects can support the recruitment, education, training, and retention of pre-professionals, students, faculty, and the current library and archives workforce. 

Project Type

Early Career Research

Library & Information Science Library Services Historical Records & Archives

BURGER KING Scholars: General Track

Burger King Mclamore Foundation Inc
Private
Canada, Guam +2 more
US $1,000 - US $60,000
The BURGER KING Scholars: General Track offers scholarships for high school seniors and past recipients who plan to pursue undergraduate studies at accredited institutions. The program aims to empower students through education, providing $1,000 awards based on academic performance, community involvement, and financial need. Administered by Scholarship America, this initiative has awarded nearly $64 million to over 55,000 students across North America, embodying the Burger King Foundation's commitment to education and opportunity.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Dubuque County Child Care Solutions Fund Grant: Professional Development & Technology Upgrades

Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque
Private
Dubuque County, Iowa
Up to US $5,000
The Dubuque County Child Care Solutions Fund Grant is a vital initiative aimed at enhancing professional development and technology upgrades for childcare providers in Dubuque County. With funding up to $5,000, the program supports essential training and technology improvements, ensuring quality care and education for children. This grant addresses the challenges of childcare wages while minimizing tuition increases for families, fostering a sustainable and supportive childcare environment in the community.
Child Care Services

The Congressman Mark Foley Scholarship for Environmental Studies Fund

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors.

The Congressman Mark Foley Scholarship for Environmental Studies Fund

Must pursue an undergraduate degree in Environmental Studies.

Education - Higher Education Environmental Education

Dubuque County Child Care Solutions Fund Grant: AccessDubuqueJobs.com Investment

Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque
Private
Dubuque County, Iowa
Unspecified amount
The Dubuque County Child Care Solutions Fund Grant, administered by the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque, aims to enhance childcare access and quality in the region. This program supports childcare providers by addressing wage challenges while keeping tuition affordable for families. With a focus on promoting career opportunities through AccessDubuqueJobs.com, the initiative underscores the importance of childcare in fostering a thriving community. Eligible providers must meet specific criteria, ensuring quality care for children in Dubuque County.
Child Care Services

Perry's Foundation Scholarships

Perry's Foundation
Association/Society
Clay County, Texas, Jack County, Texas +2 more
Unspecified amount
Perry's Foundation Scholarships support students aged 17-19 from Olney, TX, and surrounding areas. Established in 2017, the foundation prioritizes applicants demonstrating financial need and offers scholarships for tuition, books, and other essential school expenses. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and attend accredited four-year institutions. Family members of the board are ineligible. The foundation aims to strengthen communities by empowering service-driven individuals through education.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Advancing Developmental Education Reform by Building Faculty Capacity, Scaling Evidence-Based Models, and Supporting Continuous Improvement Project

Illinois Community College Board
State/Local Government
Illinois
Up to US $50,000
The Illinois Community College Board is launching the Advancing Developmental Education Reform Project, offering grants of up to $50,000 to support community colleges in enhancing faculty capacity and scaling evidence-based models. Eligible colleges are encouraged to focus on data capacity, faculty development, and scaling successful reforms to improve student outcomes in developmental education. This initiative aims to foster continuous improvement and innovative practices in educational settings across Illinois.
Education - Higher Education Academic Success & Enrichment

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program: Applied Research Grants

Institute of Museum and Library Services
Federal Government
U.S. Territories, United States
US $75,000 - US $750,000

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program

Program Overview:

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian (LB21) projects build a library and archival workforce that can meet the information needs of communities and increase the institutional capacity of libraries, archives, and library and information science graduate programs across the country.  

The program supports projects that:  

  • provide training and professional development to library and archives professionals;  
  • develop faculty and information leaders; and 
  • recruit, educate, and retain the next generation of library and archives professionals. 

Projects can support the recruitment, education, training, and retention of pre-professionals, students, faculty, and the current library and archives workforce. 

Project Type

Applied Research

Library & Information Science Library Services Historical Records & Archives

Laura B. Seder Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut
Private
Connecticut
Approximately US $1,000
The Laura B. Seder Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, provides financial assistance to students from Norwich attending accredited colleges or universities. Established in memory of Laura B. Seder, a dedicated lawyer and community member, this scholarship emphasizes the importance of legal studies. Since 1983, the foundation has awarded over $11.9 million in scholarships to support local students in achieving their educational and career goals.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Salute to Citizens Scholarship

Community Foundation of Abilene
Private
United States
US $500 - US $5,000
The Salute to Citizens Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors individuals who enhance their communities through active citizenship. Open to Taylor County graduates pursuing higher education or trade certifications, applicants must demonstrate past contributions to society and outline their future commitment to community service. Established by Hannah Durbin, a dedicated Air Force veteran and educator, this scholarship aims to empower students with awards ranging from $500 to over $5,000.
Vocational & Trade 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 $3.43B 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

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

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
29.8%
Q2
23.8%
Q3
23.9%
Q4
22.6%

Typical Funding Amounts

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

Grants are most commonly $34,887.

$0 $0 Min.
$34,887 $34.9 K Median
$655,609 $655.6 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 29.8% 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 $34,887 (median) and $655,609 (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.