Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Vanguard

Remuseum announces The Vanguard, an award and accelerator for innovative leaders in the visual and performing arts, in partnership with the Doris Duke Foundation. The Vanguard’s $100,000 annual award will recognize up to ten leaders who are exploring new ways to strengthen arts institutions, and a year-long accelerator will help them refine, implement, and evaluate their ideas. The first award and accelerator of its kind, The Vanguard celebrates leaders who are ready to center the public in their work in new ways, building models for increased relevance and sustainability in the arts.

The Program

The $100,000 grant that accompanies each award will go to that leader’s institution, to support ideas developed in The Vanguard’s 12-month accelerator program. That program begins with a week-long retreat at Shangri La, the Doris Duke Foundation’s global center for culture and ideas in Honolulu, Hawaii, followed by a year of monthly coaching sessions, regional peer gatherings, and collaborative workshops, culminating in a public presentation of their work and findings to the broader arts community. The accelerator and its curriculum, tailored specifically for cultural leaders, has been designed by Jenny Larios Berlin, entrepreneur in the creative and tech sectors and Lecturer at MIT Sloan School of Management, and will be co-taught with Gregory Bunch, entrepreneur and Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, and will be advised by Ethernet Inventors Professor of Entrepreneurship Bill Aulet, Managing Director of the Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship.

By year’s end, members of The Vanguard will have built an intellectual kinship with each other while modeling a spirit of innovative leadership for the field. Remuseum will continue evaluating and sharing their work as case studies for cultural organizations broadly, and future classes will continue expanding a Vanguard of leaders (10, then 20, and on) who build models of success for cultural organizations in the 21st Century, allowing arts & cultural institutions not just to survive but to support a stronger and more pluralistic civil society.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Division of Governance Interventions supports TEA’s mission and vision by providing exceptional leadership, guidance, and support to school system leadership teams and governing boards. The division collaborates with external field support agents appointed by the TEA Commissioner of Education to build sustainable systems aligned to core TEA initiatives, so that the school system thrives after the release of agency intervention. 

2026-2027 Academic Decathlon Grant

Program Description

The purpose of the Academic Decathlon grant is to provide financial support to the Texas Academic Decathlon Association in its efforts to sponsor and lead the Texas Academic Decathlon program. Through the Academic Decathlon program, students who are mentored by Academic Decathlon coaches take part in individual and team competitions designed to promote problem-solving strategies, research skills, critical and analytical thinking skills, communication skills, and teamwork skills. State and regional coordinators organize competitions that begin at the local level with the opportunity for winners to move on to compete at regional and national levels.

The South Carolina Department of Education offers the Public Charter Schools Program Discretionary Subgrant to foster the development and initial operation of new charter schools. This competitive grant, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, aims to enhance access to quality education by supporting innovative educational models and addressing achievement gaps. Eligible new charter schools can apply for funding to cover planning and implementation costs, ensuring they are effectively launched to benefit underserved student populations.

The ACS-Hach Professional Development Grant provides up to $2,500 to support high school chemistry teachers in the U.S. as they pursue professional development opportunities. This grant aims to enhance teaching and learning in chemistry by funding activities such as conferences, workshops, and educational resources. It is designed to improve educators' skills and boost student achievement, thereby fostering a better learning environment in chemistry classrooms.

The ESC Texas Tutoring Support Grant, managed by the Texas Education Agency, aims to establish a central tutoring hub to enhance educational outcomes. This initiative includes hosting an annual summit focused on best practices, providing technical assistance, and developing resources to ensure sustainable implementation across Texas school systems. By fostering collaboration and sharing effective strategies, the grant seeks to build capacity and improve tutoring services statewide, ultimately benefiting students and educational institutions.

The Peterson Foundation Grant, established in 1944 by Hal and Charlie Peterson, supports charitable organizations within Kerr, Bandera, Edwards, Gillespie, Kendall, Kimble, and Real Counties. The Foundation primarily funds health care and education initiatives, and applications are accepted year-round from §501(c)(3) organizations in the service area. Notably, grants are not available for religious purposes, political actions, or individuals, ensuring a focus on community enrichment.

The NIH Mentored Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award (K23) aims to support healthcare professionals with a clinical doctoral degree in their pursuit of patient-oriented research. This award is essential for those committed to advancing their research careers, ensuring they focus on enhancing patient care. Key application deadlines for standard and renewal submissions span from June 2024 to February 2027, providing ample opportunity for interested candidates to apply.

The City of Chico Arts Grant Program aims to enhance cultural engagement by supporting local artists and arts organizations. Funded by a portion of the Transient Occupancy Tax, the grant promotes diverse projects that include community participation and artistic excellence. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a 1:1 cash match and a commitment to serving underserved populations. This initiative fosters inclusivity and access to quality arts experiences, ensuring a vibrant cultural landscape for Chico's residents.

The Stanley C. Israel Regional Award for Advancing Diversity in the Chemical Sciences recognizes individuals or institutions promoting inclusiveness in the chemical sciences. This award includes a medal, a $1,250 grant, and reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,500 for attending the ACS regional meeting where the award is presented. Eligible nominees must foster programs that increase participation from diverse groups in the chemical enterprise.

The LexArts General Operating Support Grant provides essential funding to arts organizations in Central Kentucky, supporting year-round cultural activities. With two tiers available, GOS I offers over $25,000 for established organizations, while GOS II provides $5,000 to $25,000 for mid-sized groups. This program aims to enhance community life through artistic and educational initiatives. Interested applicants must visit LexArts.gosmart.org and note that meeting eligibility does not guarantee funding.

The Preserve Route 66 Grant Fund offers financial support to public agencies, tribal governments, and nonprofit organizations aiming to preserve historic places along Route 66. This initiative prioritizes projects that enhance underrepresented narratives, including those related to diverse communities. Grants typically range from $2,500 to $10,000, with a focus on activities that restore, rehabilitate, or educate about significant historical sites, ensuring that this iconic American highway's legacy is maintained for future generations.

The CCI Quick Grant program offers financial support to artists and nonprofit arts organizations in San Francisco and San José. Eligible applicants can receive up to $600 annually for professional development activities, such as workshops and conferences. The program aims to enhance the administrative capacity and business skills of participants, ultimately strengthening the financial resilience of their artistic practices and organizations. Applications are accepted monthly, with deadlines on the 15th.

The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, administered by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority, aims to enhance high-speed internet accessibility across the U.S. Funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, this initiative accepts applications year-round, with approvals occurring quarterly. To be eligible for the next funding round, applications must be submitted by the end of each calendar quarter, ensuring timely support for broadband development.

The Nike Community Impact Fund in Portland Metro, Oregon, empowers local organizations to drive positive change through grants. This employee-led initiative focuses on inclusive, active communities, supporting youth to reach their potential. With a volunteer committee providing local insights, eligible organizations can apply for funding to enhance community engagement and make play accessible for all. By investing in grassroots efforts, Nike aims to create lasting impact in the neighborhoods where its employees live and work.

The MI Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), managed by the Michigan DNR, supports the development of public outdoor recreation facilities. With grants ranging from $30,000 to $500,000, the program aims to enhance trails, community recreation, and accessibility while promoting local investment in recreation resources. This reimbursement program requires a 50% local match, ensuring communities actively participate in funding their projects. The initiative aligns with Michigan's State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP).

The Illinois Community College Board has initiated the Digital Instruction for Adult Education grant to enhance technology access and digital skills for adult learners. This initiative aims to support Title II Adult Education and IELCE programs in upgrading their technology infrastructure, ensuring effective integration of technology in classrooms, and improving distance learning options. By fostering innovation through AI and increasing access to educational resources, the grant will empower individuals with foundational skills to transition into postsecondary education and the workforce.

The Education Support Professional of the Year award recognizes outstanding contributions by education support professionals in Minnesota. Annually, Education Minnesota honors an individual who exemplifies dedication and excellence in their role. Nominations for the 2025-26 award are now open, inviting submissions from colleagues and community members. The recipient will receive a $1,200 honorarium, a choice of technology, and an expense-paid trip to a national conference, celebrating their impactful work within the educational community.

The PA Local Share Account (LSA) – Monroe County Grant, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, allocates 2% of gross terminal revenues from licensed gaming facilities to support community and economic development projects in Monroe County and its neighboring areas. This initiative aims to enhance local well-being and mitigate the impacts of gaming activities, fostering growth and resilience in the region.

The Elmo M. Royce Youth Fund Grant supports non-profit organizations in Schuyler County, NY, that provide youth activities and recreational programs. It also offers camp scholarships, known as Camperships, to financially needy youth. This grant aims to enhance the quality of life for local youth through diverse programs, including organized summer activities and camps. Managed by the Community Foundation, this initiative ensures that essential resources are available to foster youth development in the community.

Background

The Community Vision Fund (CVF) is an unrestricted fund within the Community Foundation with the ability to be agile due to its discretionary nature. ​​Granting through this fund remains committed to fulfilling community needs and advancing the well-being for all in Calumet, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, and the Neenah-Menasha area of Winnebago counties.

Community Vision Fund- Visionary Grants 

Focus:

Visionary grants support community-driven ideas that emerge from lived experience and grassroots leadership. They are designed to elevate voices with lived experience, encourage innovation and experimentation, and support early stage or non-traditional approaches. ​

​Grant Ranges:

• Grant awards will range from $5,000 to $10,000 for a one-year award​

​Grant Considerations:

In alignment with the namesake of this fund, visionary grants are focused on supporting:​

• Community-driven ideas shaped by lived experience​
• Efforts that test new approaches, pilot emerging ideas, or explore creative solutions​
• Initiatives that are just beginning or evolving but show promise for community benefit​
• Projects where there is potential for shared learning, community strengthening, or systems insights 

The Frederick McDonald Trust Grant, established in 1950, aims to enhance educational, human services, and healthcare programs for underserved populations in Albany, New York. The grant supports organizations providing general operating, program, project, and capital support exclusively for those serving Albany City. With a focus on quality and accessibility, the Trust plays a vital role in improving the lives of local residents through targeted funding initiatives.

The GIFT Foundation of Hawaii, established in 2003, supports charitable organizations across Hawaii by empowering young professionals to engage in philanthropy. Through an annual charity event, the foundation grants funds to selected local projects that focus on youth education, startup initiatives, and sustainable community impacts. They prioritize proposals demonstrating leadership and financial viability, ensuring a lasting benefit to the Hawaiian community. The foundation aims to inspire and motivate young adults to contribute to meaningful causes.

Stanislaus Community Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students in order to help them achieve their educational and career goals. We believe that by investing in our students, we are investing in a brighter future for Stanislaus. 

Dr. Grant E. & Colleen Bare Scholarship

Open to current Modesto Junior College students and Stanislaus County students planning to transfer to a four-year college and pursue a degree in the fields of science, medical sciences and/or mathematics. 

Award Amount:

• Up to $3,500

The Kathleen Patton Westby Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life by supporting the arts, arts education, and culture. Applicants must submit a letter of inquiry as the first step, as proposals are accepted only upon request. The foundation primarily funds tax-exempt organizations with 501(c)(3) status, and does not support deficit financing, individual grants, or research projects unless integral to broader programs.

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation and KidsGardening offer the GroMoreGood Grassroots Grant to enhance community gardens across the U.S. This initiative supports programs that engage under-resourced communities, focusing on youth participation. In 2026, 120 grants of $750 will be awarded, with additional funding opportunities available through specialty awards for programs addressing specific needs, including those serving LGBTQ+ youth and communities of color.

The Linda Landman Gonzalez Leadership Grant, established by the Orlando Magic Leadership team, aims to empower emerging non-profit leaders by providing essential resources and support. This grant honors Linda's significant contributions to the community, offering enrollment in a prestigious leadership certificate program, travel reimbursements, and funding for professional development. Recipients will leave a lasting impact on the non-profit sector, continuing Linda's legacy of dedication and excellence in leadership.

American Society of Civil Engineers 

The American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 160,000 members of the civil engineering profession in 177 countries. Founded in 1852, ASCE is the nation’s oldest national civil engineering society.

ASCE stands at the forefront of a profession that plans, designs, constructs, and operates society’s economic and social engine – the built environment – while protecting and restoring the natural environment.

G. B. Mann Scholarship

All scholarships are awarded on an equal opportunity basis to current high school senior students who attend school in the Dallas Branch region (Collin, Cooke, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Kaufman, Navarro, and Rockwall Counties) and who will be attending an institution of higher learning in the 2026 Fall Semester in pursuit of a degree in Civil Engineering.

About G. B. Mann

The (Dallas) Branch Scholarship Fund was established in the early 90s when David Schnurbusch was the Branch president. In 1993, the Fund received a large boost from George Boley Mann, when he contributed a large sum of his retirement investments to the Fund. Numerous Dallas area high school and college students have benefited from his large and kind endowment. He did not want any publicity for this contribution.

An ASCE Past President and Life Member, Mr. Mann received a degree in Civil Engineering from SMU. During WWII he worked in Ordinance Department at Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland. He retired from Texas Department of Transportation after 34 years of service. He was active in ASCE and NSPE. He contributed to the construction of numerous Texas highways. He mentored many young engineers.