Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The 3M Science & Technology Graduate Fellowship supports outstanding incoming PhD students in science and engineering at the University of Minnesota. This multi-year fellowship includes a $25,000 stipend in the first year, covering tuition for up to 14 credits per semester, and subsidized health insurance. In subsequent years, fellows receive an $8,000 stipend, which complements a 50% assistantship from their department. The program fosters diversity and innovation among scholars.

This funding opportunity from the NIH encourages groundbreaking research to enhance, develop, and preserve animal models and related biological materials for studies impacting human health. The program seeks innovative methodologies that can improve the diagnosis and management of diseases affecting animal use in biomedical research. Projects must demonstrate relevance across multiple NIH Institutes to align with broader research goals, emphasizing diverse body systems and disease categories.

The Shelby County Foundation Grant, managed by the Omaha Community Foundation, supports projects enhancing the quality of life in Shelby County. With two application cycles each year, this grant aims to fund initiatives in civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services. It invites proposals for capital support and program support, ensuring a lasting impact on community needs. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. CST on the specified deadlines.

About Us

In 2015, Baltimore adopted the South Baltimore Gateway Master Plan, a sweeping plan to improve neighborhoods across South and Southwest Baltimore that are close to the Horseshoe Casino. The City then began to implement this plan, with the advice of the Local Development Council and funding provided by local impact grants (community grants) generated by area casino revenues.

It soon became clear that another organization was also needed to help spend these funds -– something that could be more flexible, nimble, and entrepreneurial. So, in 2016, the South Baltimore Gateway Partnership was established, governed by a Board of Directors comprised principally of residents and business owners. Now, the City and the Partnership split Baltimore’s share of the local impact grant funds.

In order to successfully implement this ambitious agenda, the SBGP created its own Strategic Plan to narrow its focus to three crucial elements of the South Baltimore Gateway Master Plan:

• Environmental Sustainability
• Health and Wellness
• Community Development and Revitalization

The Joseph W. Tripiano Charitable Fund supports nonprofits dedicated to the care and promotion of horses. Established in memory of Joe Tripiano, it aims to enhance the quality of life for horses through various initiatives. Grant requests are accepted year-round, with a decision anticipated within four weeks of application submission. Eligible organizations must be located in Northern California, hold 501(c)(3) status, and have maintained accurate financial records. This fund prioritizes urgent needs related to equestrian support.

Artis offers exhibition grants to support contemporary artists from Israel, aiming to promote critical dialogue and cultural exchange in international settings. These grants facilitate presentations at renowned organizations globally, focusing on innovative and impactful projects that engage with pressing social and environmental issues. The program prioritizes proposals that demonstrate curatorial ambition and artistic experimentation, fostering collaboration across diverse disciplines. Artis is committed to shaping a sustainable art world while addressing urgent global challenges through artistic practice.

The NIAID is dedicated to advancing research on medical countermeasures against chemical and radiation threats, focusing on innovative technologies to diagnose and treat exposure effects. The initiative promotes the development of models, biomarkers, and devices that enhance survival and reduce morbidity during public health emergencies. It supports preclinical efforts to address injuries from designated Chemicals of Concern, emphasizing the need for effective solutions in civilian mass casualty scenarios.

The National Fund for Sacred Places Grant Program supports historic houses of worship in the U.S. through matching grants ranging from $50,000 to $250,000. This initiative, in collaboration with the National Trust for Historic Preservation, aims to enhance community engagement and preserve culturally significant buildings. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate their historical relevance and community service, particularly those representing underrepresented groups. The program prioritizes urgent repair needs and projects that foster inclusivity and accessibility.

Cumberland Community Foundation ("CCF") manages more than 60 scholarship endowment funds created by local individuals, families, civic organizations, and corporations who want to provide a path to higher education for future generations. 

Each year, Cumberland Community Foundation announces more than $1,000,000 in college scholarships to students from southeastern North Carolina.

Dorothy A. Howard Memorial Scholarship

Graduating senior from any high school in Cumberland County.

The Brown Foundation Grant aims to empower organizations that strengthen the Houston community through selective grantmaking. With a history of distributing over $1.7 billion, the foundation focuses on supporting general operating funds, program initiatives, and capital projects. To qualify, organizations must be tax-exempt under 501(c)(3) and primarily serve the Houston area. The foundation values visionary leadership and maintains a low profile, emphasizing the impact of its grantees.

The IEEE Computer Society Grant, offered by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, provides funding up to $10,000 to support STEM outreach efforts. This program encourages IEEE members to engage pre-university students in engineering and computing through various initiatives. With multiple funding levels, it aims to inspire the next generation of technology innovators and promote awareness of the engineering profession, ensuring that engineering is accessible and exciting for all.

The Ralph E. and Dee Bennett Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Crown Point Community Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors and college students pursuing a degree in Construction Management or Engineering Technology at Purdue Northwest or Purdue Lafayette. Applicants must be full-time students with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and may reapply annually. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster academic success in South Lake County.

The HRE USA 2025 Edmonds Summer Fellowship honors the legacy of Kirby Edmonds by offering young leaders hands-on experience in human rights education. This fellowship provides mentorship and learning opportunities to engage youth in creating human rights-friendly schools and communities. Supported by the Dorothy Cotton Institute, it aims to nurture future leaders committed to human rights advocacy. Eligible candidates must be 18 or older, reside in the U.S., and commit to 100 hours of work between June and August 2025.

The Arts & Science Council's Strategic Investment Grants (SIG) offer up to $50,000 to support established nonprofits in Mecklenburg County focused on arts, science, history, and heritage. These grants aim to enhance organizational capacity through project-based funding, encouraging sustainable growth and collaboration in the community. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations can apply for funding to strengthen management, improve fundraising, and achieve operational efficiencies between October 1, 2025, and May 1, 2026.

The Johanna Favrot Fund for Historic Preservation, established in 1994, supports public agencies and nonprofit organizations in their efforts to preserve historic environments. With grants ranging from $2,500 to $15,000, this highly competitive funding opportunity aims to foster appreciation for cultural heritage and enhance community livability. Eligible activities include planning, education, and preservation projects. Applicants must match the grant dollar-for-dollar and adhere to specific guidelines to ensure the success of their initiatives.

The Pierre and Tana Matisse Foundation grants support arts and arts education initiatives focused on underserved youth in New York City. Established in 1995, the foundation prioritizes programs that enhance the educational experience through arts engagement for children under 18. Grants are awarded to nonprofit organizations that provide cultural experiences and educational opportunities, ensuring that the arts remain an integral part of the learning process. Note that operational expenses for organizations and individual funding are not covered.

The BJA FY 2026 Justice Reinvestment Initiative aims to enhance state and local operations to effectively reduce crime and recidivism. This funding opportunity encourages state, local, and tribal governments to optimize resource allocation within the justice system, targeting urgent challenges through data-driven project proposals. By addressing areas such as law enforcement, prosecution, and probation, applicants can focus on strategies that maximize public safety and reduce the inefficient use of funds.

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 Portland Arts & Culture General Operating Support program provides essential funding for local arts organizations that enhance the cultural ecosystem of the city. With a focus on accessibility, these grants support a wide range of activities including community events and arts education. Eligible organizations must be based in Portland, hold IRS 501(c)(3) status, and demonstrate a commitment to serving diverse communities. Over 1.5 million attendees benefit from these programs annually, bolstering the local economy.

The Zyne Family Foundation Grant aims to enhance and support Catholic faith-based organizations and other 501(c)(3) nonprofits dedicated to education, medical research, and family values. The foundation's mission focuses on making a direct impact on individuals' daily lives, ensuring that these initiatives can thrive both now and in the future, promoting community well-being and development.

The Arkansas Space Grant Consortium (ASGC) is offering the Student Intensive Training (SIT) Award aimed at undergraduate students interested in aerospace research. This program supports multiple student projects within a single STEM study area, fostering collaboration and innovation. While several undergraduate projects may be funded, graduate students may have restrictions on participation. This initiative enhances educational opportunities and encourages exploration in critical aerospace topics.

Raymond and Paulette Cox Scholarhsip (Piedmont)

Provides scholarship to a Piedmont graduating senior with a GPA of 3.0-3.00, attending a two- or four-year college or university and majoring in health services or public service.

The Planetary Science Enabling Facilities (PSEF) program by NASA invites proposals for research facilities that support the Planetary Science Division. It aims to enhance scientific collaboration and innovation by providing resources to a diverse range of institutions, including emerging and undergraduate colleges. Proposals should highlight the scientific merit and community need for these facilities, ensuring that they serve a broad user base committed to advancing planetary science.

The AJ Muste Foundation's Rapid Response Grants support U.S.-based organizations engaged in grassroots activism for social justice. These grants, up to $5,000, are aimed at addressing immediate needs of groups fighting for equality and liberation. The funding is designed for unexpected opportunities and emergencies, promoting powerful organizing efforts. The foundation prioritizes groups lacking traditional funding sources and those focused on systemic change rather than individual support.

Massachusetts Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

The Massachusetts Community Development Block Grant Program is a federally funded, competitive grant program designed to help cities and towns meet a broad range of community development needs.

There are two primary Massachusetts CDBG funding programs, the Community Development Fund (CDF) and the Mini-Entitlement Program (ME) Program. The Community Development Fund (CDF) is a competitive program and awards grants to eligible communities throughout the Commonwealth, helping cities and towns meet a broad range of community development needs in housing, infrastructure, revitalization, economic development and public social services. Municipalities selected for the Mini-Entitlement Program (ME) Program are determined by using a formula calculation based on high statistical indicators of need, poverty rate and population size. Each program has specific eligibility requirements and application procedures, which are described in more detail below.

Please note, the maximum award amounts have increased by $100,000 in each category since the proposed changes to the One Year Plan session: now a single municipality may receive an award up to $950,000; two municipalities (regional) may receive an award up to $1,150,000 and three municipalities (regional) may receive an award up to $1,350,000.  

The Polisseni Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in upstate New York by supporting organizations that address community needs in education, human services, and civic improvement. To apply, organizations must submit their IRS 501(c)(3) Determination Letter and ensure their applications are formatted correctly. All submissions must be made two weeks before the scheduled board meeting for consideration.

The City of Covington's Neighborhood Grant Program offers up to $5,000 to neighborhood groups for projects aimed at enhancing community appearance and social cohesion. This competitively awarded program emphasizes a simple application process for funding beautification initiatives, blight removal, and special events. By fostering local engagement, it aims to create vibrant, connected neighborhoods that reflect the community's identity and pride.