Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Bloom-Hays Ecological Research Grant and Zembal Wetland Research Grant support ecological research in Southern California, focusing on avian species and coastal wetland habitats. Grants ranging from $250 to $2,500 are awarded to graduate and outstanding undergraduate students, promoting innovative research that benefits native species and habitats. Preference is given to projects directly related to local ecology, ensuring that funding addresses critical habitat issues in the region.

The Active Transportation Grant, offered by Columbia Basin Trust, supports communities in enhancing their non-motorized travel options. This program funds the planning and construction of multi-use pathways, promoting walking, cycling, and wheeling. By creating safe routes for all ages and abilities, it aims to reduce pollution and foster healthier, more accessible communities. Applications are accepted continuously until the available funds are committed, enabling timely support for local initiatives.

The Iowa Farm Bureau offers sponsorships to support events and fundraisers across Iowa, focusing on agriculture, rural communities, and education. Their priorities include promoting health and wellness, fostering youth leadership, and enhancing the viability of farm families. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status. However, they do not fund projects outside Iowa, political entities, or construction projects. This initiative aims to strengthen community ties and nurture future agricultural leaders.

Clean Energy Fund (CEF) Building Electrification Grant Program

Commerce is accepting applications for the Clean Energy Fund Building Electrification Grant Program. These grants are intended to be used by current program grantees to enhance their existing building electrification projects and pursue additional measures to increase energy savings and greenhouse gas emissions reductions.

Funding

Commerce will distribute the remaining $495,000 from the CEF5 Building Electrification Grant Program. There is no minimum request amount, and the maximum award is $495,000.

The Episcopal Presbyterian Health Trust Grant, managed by the St. Louis Community Foundation, focuses on enhancing health care access and addressing chronic diseases. Grants are awarded biannually, prioritizing maternal and infant health in the second cycle. Organizations are encouraged to submit one Letter of Intent (LOI) annually, ensuring their proposals align with the funding priorities to foster sustainable health solutions in the community.

The Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation offers Local Impact Grants to nonprofit organizations in 11 markets, providing $225,000 to support local programs addressing community issues. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits with a revenue exceeding $100,000 and must operate in one of the specified television markets. The grants aim to empower youth through education, promote diverse storytelling, and enhance community engagement. This initiative underscores Comcast's commitment to fostering inclusion and equitable opportunities for underserved communities.

The McConnell Fund, established in 2001 by the Community Foundation of the North State, aims to enhance communities in Shasta, Siskiyou, Tehama, Trinity, and Modoc counties through grants up to $50,000. It focuses on funding projects in areas such as arts, recreation, and social services, while prioritizing nonprofits and public entities. Eligible applicants can seek financial support for equipment and building-related initiatives, reinforcing the foundation's commitment to community development and philanthropy.

Who We Are

The organization is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) Charitable Trust supported by members of the NH Beverage Association, the Beverage Distributors of New Hampshire Association and the New Hampshire Grocers Association. This collaborative effort by food and beverage companies has developed comprehensive programs to address, litter issues, recycling challenges, environmental awareness and education.

What We Do

We accomplish these goals by offering municipal recycling grants and signs, anti-litter programs and technical assistance to recycling programs. New Hampshire communities are eligible to apply for funding to assist with the purchase of recycling equipment. This includes monies to purchase curbside collection bins, balers, crushers, roll-off containers and other equipment that will help a community achieve higher diversion rates.

Municipal Recycling and Storage Equipment Grants

New Hampshire communities are eligible to apply for funding to assist with the purchase of recycling equipment. Grant applications are considered on an individual basis and funding may be up to 20% of the purchase price of the equipment. While we will not help with the purchase of land, studies or buildings, we do help fund the purchase of balers, crushers, roll-off containers and other equipment that will help a community achieve higher diversion rates.

Recycling Equipment grant applications are accepted on a rolling schedule, with current applications being considered every two months and up to 9 months given to allow communities to purchase and install suitable equipment. Grants are paid as a reimbursement to communities after they have purchased the equipment. Equipment purchased with NHtB grant money must be used exclusively for recycling. Communities that discontinue their recycling programs must either repay NHtB or, where applicable, work with NHtB to transfer that equipment to another community for use in recycling.

Nebraska Medical Center supports non-profit organizations aiming to serve vulnerable populations and address major health issues like cancer, mental health, and prenatal care. They prioritize funding for initiatives aligned with community health improvement, specifically benefiting underserved groups. Eligible applicants must be IRS-designated 501(c)(3) organizations and submit proposals 60 days prior to events. However, they do not fund activities related to debt retirement, scholarships, or religious programming.

The Crail-Johnson Foundation focuses on enhancing the well-being of children and families in Los Angeles through grants aimed at Health, Human Services, and Education. It supports non-profit organizations that provide essential services, prioritizing communities such as San Pedro and Watts. The Foundation emphasizes mental health, access to care, and innovative programs for disadvantaged youth. Grants are typically one-year, with a focus on systemic change and proven approaches to community health and education.

IMPACT 100 of Northwest Florida offers grants to nonprofit organizations in Okaloosa and Walton Counties, aiming to fund high-impact projects that transform lives. Grants start at $100,000, with specific focus areas including education, environment, family, health & recreation, and arts & culture. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and serve local communities. The grant process encourages collaboration among nonprofits, fostering innovative solutions for community needs.

The Maine Health Access Foundation (MeHAF) offers the Systems Improvement and Innovation Responsive Grants Program to enhance health equity across Maine. This program, launched in 2020, complements previous grant initiatives by focusing on traditional systems-based organizations. It aims to improve access to healthcare in rural areas, support aging populations, address behavioral health issues, and promote maternal and child health. Community involvement is a key element, ensuring that those affected by health disparities have a voice in program development.

The Connecticut Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) program supports producers in improving water management, planting trees, and diversifying production to mitigate risks. With financial assistance covering up to 75% of conservation practice costs, participants can receive up to $50,000 annually. This program is designed for farmers in 16 states with low federal crop insurance participation, allowing them to enhance resource conservation and sustainability while complying with specific eligibility requirements.

The Samuel H. French and Katherine Weaver French Fund provides grants focused on the welfare and education of the elderly, sight-impaired, and young in the San Diego region. Established by a couple committed to community support, the fund prioritizes programs that directly benefit these populations. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and demonstrate project-specific requests rather than general operating support. The fund aims to enhance educational and health services, contributing to the well-being of vulnerable community members.

Department of Administration

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Department of Administration is the flagship agency of the State of Wisconsin. We help the Office of the Governor with the biennial state budget, provide centralized purchasing and financial management for state agencies, and work with the 11 federally recognized Native Nations in Wisconsin on gaming, coastal programs, and other key areas. Our mission is to provide effective and efficient services at the best value to government agencies and the public.

CDBG - Emergency Assistance Program (EAP)

​Program Overview

The Community Development Block Grant -Emergency Assistance Program CDBG-EAP (PDF) is administered by the Wisconsin Department of Administration, Division of Energy, Housing, and Community Resources (DEHCR) under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended. CDBG-EAP funds are used to assist local units of government in addressing emergency housing, public facility, infrastructure, and business assistance needs that occur as a result of natural or manmade disasters.  

The CDBG - Emergency Assistance Program includes funding for: Public Facility/Infrastructure Assistance; Housing Rehabilitation Assistance; and Business Assistance.

Housing Rehabilitation Assistance

CDBG-EAP housing assistance is available to eligible homeowners and tenants whose primary residence has been damaged by a natural or manmade disaster. Funds are awarded as a grant.

Individual homeowners or tenants must apply directly through their local municipal government. 

Eligible repair projects include:

• Foundations, façades, and roofs
• Electrical and HVAC repairs and replacements
• Water, sewer system, and water heater repairs

Our Mission

To advance Mayo Clinic’s commitment to be a socially responsible Enterprise by supporting and extending Mayo’s strategic mission of integrated practice, research and education through active community engagement practices.

Our Vision

To be a proactive partner, inclusive of diverse and underserved populations, and contribute to the overall health, sustainability, livability and vibrancy of the many communities we serve. Stakeholders will better understand and appreciate Mayo Clinic’s community engagement practices and our ongoing role in strengthening partnerships and creating positive social impact.

Community Contributions Program in Florida

Mayo Clinic in Florida is a not-for-profit organization with the primary mission of patient care. As a private trust for the public good, Mayo Clinic is dedicated to giving back to its local communities through its Office of Community Relations.

Mayo Clinic partners with others to ensure that:

• Our community investments align with our mission to advance patient care, research and education
• Our community is a welcoming, vibrant and healthy environment
• Our community is an environment that attracts and sustains a diverse Mayo Clinic workforce to provide the best patient care

Program Information

Mayo Clinic considers sponsorship and grant requests from registered 501(c)(3) organizations in northeast Florida for new/ongoing programs or other community outreach activities that support the stated goals. These may include:

• Health and Human Services
• Education and workforce development
• Belonging
• Youth enrichment
• Community events

Each request will be considered for alignment with any of the following health priorities:

• Access to Care
• Mental Health
• Food Environment - access to nutritious food

Access to Care

Mayo Clinic will offer one grant funding opportunity for the Community Health Needs Assessment priority area: Mental Health

The Equitable Food Access Initiative: Home Delivered Meals, led by the DC Department of Health, aims to enhance food access for District residents. This program invites proposals from qualified community and non-profit organizations to implement effective strategies for delivering meals to those in need. By focusing on evidence-based approaches, the initiative seeks to improve food environments and ensure equitable access to nutritious food options for all residents.

The MA Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) program supports agricultural producers in mitigating financial risks through diversification and conservation practices. Administered by NRCS, it provides financial assistance up to 75% for conservation costs, with a cap of $50,000 per participant annually. Eligibility includes land control and compliance with regulations. AMA is available in 16 states with historically low Federal Crop Insurance participation, promoting sustainable farming and resource management.

The F26AS00085 Aquatic Invasive Species Interjurisdictional Grants, funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support interjurisdictional projects addressing aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes. Eligible applicants include Great Lakes states and tribes, focusing on action-oriented projects that enhance regional priorities. The initiative will fund both sustaining projects, which build on previous efforts, and new projects that present innovative solutions for effective management and prevention of aquatic invasive species.

The Environmental Protection Fund Grant Program for Parks, Preservation and Heritage (EPF) offers matching grants for the acquisition, development, and improvement of parks, historic properties, and heritage areas in New York. It supports municipalities and not-for-profits, ensuring long-term protection of funded projects. The program encompasses three categories: Parks, Historic Preservation, and Heritage Areas, aimed at enhancing recreational facilities and preserving cultural heritage through well-defined projects and planning.

DC Health

The mission of DC Health is to promote and protect the health, safety, and quality of life of  residents, visitors, and those doing business in the District of Columbia. The agency is  responsible for identifying health risks; educating the public; preventing and controlling diseases,  injuries, and exposure to environmental hazards; promoting effective community collaborations;  and optimizing equitable access to community resources.

HAHSTA Prevention Services

Purpose

This funding announcement is to support a comprehensive approach that identifies and prevents HIV, STI, and HBV/HCV among populations, such African American women, youth (18-24), men who engage in male to male sexual contact (MMSC), biological males who identify as female, biological females who identify as male, African American males, unhoused individuals, and others most at risk for exposure. Applicants should ensure that all people are aware of their health status and of methods to reduce their risk of these diseases. This approach may lead to improved health outcomes, enhanced self-efficacy, improved health literacy, viral suppression, and reduced new infections. The framework fully supports the Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) in the District of Columbia (DC).

Applicants who exhibit the capacity to deliver comprehensive HIV prevention activities that include HIV, STI, and HBV/HCV screening and delivery of PrEP/PEP education will be considered for funding. Services are to be fully accessible and well-suited to each population’s behavioral and cultural settings.

The Baldwin Hills Conservancy is inviting applications for the year-round Proposition 84 Grant Program, aimed at projects that enhance water quality in the Ballona Creek Watershed and improve access to Baldwin Hills Parklands. With $10 million allocated for such initiatives, eligible applicants include public entities and non-profits. Priority will be given to projects demonstrating urgency, innovation, and community involvement, fostering both environmental protection and public enjoyment of coastal resources.

The Kars4Kids Small Grant Program aims to support educational initiatives globally, impacting the lives of children. This program welcomes applications from IRS-recognized nonprofit organizations focused on youth development, mentorship, and education. Grants typically range from $500 to $2,000, depending on mission alignment and available funds. Kars4Kids, a national Jewish nonprofit, is dedicated to nurturing productive community members through educational and mentoring opportunities.

The Opportunity on the Plains Grant, provided by the United Way of the Plains, is a competitive funding initiative aimed at supporting health and human service programs in areas such as health, education, financial stability, and basic needs. By aligning with the social determinants of a strong community, this grant seeks to address pressing local needs. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations operating within specific counties and adhere to non-discrimination policies.

The Bargain Box of Hilton Head Grant, established in 1965, supports Beaufort County non-profits with cash grants derived from store sales. Operating as a 501(c)(3), it has contributed over $15.3 million to local charities, aiding in community activities related to education, health, and safety. Organizations must meet eligibility criteria, including having an active Board of Directors and a community focus. The grant fosters local engagement and supports a diverse array of charitable efforts.

Community Investment Fund

Community Investment Funds (CIFs) have been established in communities near our operations in Colorado, New Mexico and southeastern Arizona. The CIFs engage community leaders in cultivating and assessing community projects that address identified community priorities (developed at Community Partnership Panels), and allow them to allocate Freeport-McMoRan Foundation funds to programs and projects that encourage a strong focus on local capacity-building, community development and sustainability.

Focus Areas

Education and Workforce Development:

The following are examples of the types of programs we seek in support of the Education & Workforce Development priority and goals.

• PK-12:
  • Professional development programs for teachers and/or school administrators
  • Student preparation, incentive or other programs that drive achievement /performance and matriculation (including early childhood)
  • Classroom equipment or supplies that are proven to drive achievement /performance and are tied to a program or training/professional development
  • Programs that remove barriers or address problems related to lack of performance
  • Programs that engage parents in supporting their student’s achievement in reading, math or the pursuit of graduation and/or enrollment in higher education
  • Research studies, surveys or other activities to identify gaps and needs
• Higher Education:
  • Student counseling or advising services that help students navigate the process of enrollment in a higher ed program
  • Programs that increase access / remove barriers to enrollment or the pursuit of higher ed
  • Teacher/school administrator or counselor training needed to fully understand the higher education landscape, what is available to students and how to access it
  • Student preparation, awareness, incentive or other campaigns or efforts that drive enrollment and attainment
  • Research studies, surveys or other activities to identify gaps and needs

Economic Opportunity:

The following are examples of the types of programs we seek in support of the Economic Opportunity priority and goals.

• Small Business Development:
  • Programs that provide training or skill-building to entrepreneurs on start-up or growth
  • Access to capital programs
  • Other support services that drive start-up, expansion or retention
  • Research studies, surveys or other activities to identify gaps and needs among small business owners
• Affordable Housing:
  • Loan funds or other resource programs that help families access housing options or make housing more affordable for them
  • Housing improvement programs that allow families to stay in safe, quality housing
  • Research studies, surveys or other activities to identify gaps, needs or viable models
• Other Economic Opportunity:
  • Programs that provide transportation to health, education, recreation or other critical activities
  • Programs that increase the availability of and access to quality healthcare facilities and services
  • Projects that create or improve parks or other recreational activities
  • Projects that improve or eliminate blight or beautify high traffic areas in the community
  • Restoration of lands for habitat or public use
  • Projects that improve river or waterway health
• Capacity and Leadership:

The following are examples of the types of programs we seek in support of the Resiliency, Capacity and Leadership priority and goals.

• Programs that provide leadership or other skills for staff, board, volunteers or other community constituents to improve organizational or community performance.
• Organizational self-assessment or diagnoses activities to determine gaps and needs.
• Efforts to develop leadership succession plans that protect and prolong organizational effectiveness.
• Planning initiatives to evaluate, identify and/or consider supports needed to weather future economic disruptions (commodities market or global economy downturns, health pandemics, technological disruptors to the future of jobs/economies, etc.)
• Programs, training or other efforts that aid organizations in understanding the broader social context of which they are part and how they can collectively mobilize to address community needs and create resiliency.
• The development of leadership networks as a tool for transformative social change and amplifying impact across social systems or issues.
• Projects to increase citizen engagement in solving or addressing community challenges or opportunities.

This philosophy includes securing and maintaining our social license to operate and delivering transformation through robust stakeholder engagement and consultation, social investment, and impact evaluation. 

The BH UWC Consolidated Grant Program aims to enhance environmental equity by funding high-impact projects that address climate resilience and improve access to recreational spaces for disadvantaged communities. It aligns with the Cutting Green Tape initiative, focusing on strategic investments in conservation and community access. The program prioritizes projects that directly benefit vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable distribution of resources and measurable community benefits, thereby fostering sustainable development throughout California.