Best Professional Development Grants for Nonprofits

The Charlie O’Neill Research Grant, established in 1993 by the California Native Plant Society's Orange County Chapter, supports graduate and undergraduate students conducting field research on California’s native plants. The grant aims to protect native plant habitats through research, education, and stewardship. Awards may cover supplies, equipment, and travel costs, and recipients receive a one-year CNPS membership. Preference is given to studies focused on species within Orange County.

The Reimagining Rural Grant, offered by the Montana Community Foundation, supports communities that engaged in the 2025 Reimagining Rural gatherings. These grants aim to fund community projects inspired by the innovative ideas discussed during the sessions held on February 4, 11, and 18. The foundation is dedicated to enhancing community collaboration and development, reinforcing its commitment to philanthropy in Montana.

The Kronkosky Charitable Foundation Grant for Arts & Culture supports innovative and creative projects that enhance community vibrancy and provide access to essential cultural resources. Focusing on nonprofit organizations in Bandera, Bexar, Comal, and Kendall counties, the foundation funds initiatives in the performing arts, museums, and libraries, while also caring for vulnerable populations. This grant aims to foster artistic expression, cultural engagement, and community well-being.

New York Public Library 

The New York Public Library has been an essential provider of free books, information, ideas, and education for all New Yorkers for more than 125 years. Founded in 1895, NYPL is the nation’s largest public library system, featuring 92 locations across the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island, including our world-renowned research centers at the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, and The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts. Together with our circulating branches, including the all-new Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (SNFL), the Library provides an extraordinary richness of resources and opportunities available to all.

Kate Medina Fellowship for Literary Narrative Nonfiction

The New York Public Library and Random House Publishing Group are pleased to offer the Kate Medina Fellowship for Literary Narrative Nonfiction to support writers whose projects engage meaningfully with collections accessible onsite at the Library’s flagship Stephen A. Schwarzman Building. Projects requiring access to original materials including manuscripts, archives, books, photographs, prints, maps, newspapers, and journals will be given preference, but all worthy projects will be considered.

Established with the generous support of Kate Medina and Random House Publishing Group, the fellowship promotes originality and excellence in nonfiction works that combine strong storytelling, reportorial precision, artistic writing, and depth of research into important subjects and ideas. The selected fellow will receive a stipend of $30,000 to support four continuous months of research to be taken between September 1, 2026 - March 15, 2027.

Fellows at The New York Public Library have sustained access to the Library’s world-class collections and space to work in one of the shared study rooms of the Vartan Gregorian Center for Research in the Humanities. The Library will provide opportunities to connect with our expert librarians, subject specialists, and curators for consultation or guidance and to engage with NYPL’s broader scholarly community. As part of the Library’s commitment to expanding knowledge in the humanities more broadly, and to provide Fellows with public platforms for their scholarship and research, each Fellow will be expected to give a presentation on their work at the Schwarzman Building and to provide a blog post for the research channel of the NYPL blog. 

Project Proposal

Successful project proposals will include a thorough explanation of how in-person access to collections accessible at The New York Public Library is essential to the progress and completion of the project. Proposals should also include:

• Abstract of the project's major themes, questions, and arguments
• Significance of the project
• Project plan, including a timeline of your work with the Library's collections during the fellowship term and a desired start date
• Expected project outcomes including existing book contractual obligations, if any
• Personal statement detailing the impact this fellowship would have on your project and/or career as well as the likelihood of successfully completing your project without this fellowship

The Avista Foundation supports non-profit organizations that address community needs in eastern Washington, northern Idaho, southern Oregon, and parts of Montana. Focused on education and cultural vitality, this funding opportunity targets 501(c)(3) organizations and civic groups serving local populations. Note that requests for religious or political activities, as well as support for individuals or private foundations, are not eligible. The Foundation also includes a matching gifts program for Avista employees.

The Avista Foundation supports non-profit organizations in eastern Washington, northern Idaho, southern Oregon, and Montana, focusing on education, vulnerable populations, and community vitality. Grants are available for 501(c)(3) organizations, civic groups, and schools addressing local needs. Ineligible requests include those for religious or political activities and funding for individuals. This funding cycle emphasizes projects that foster economic and cultural growth in the communities served by Avista Utilities and Alaska Electric Light and Power Co.

Clinical & Translational Science (CTS) Pilot Grant Program

The objective of the new Indiana CTSI Clinical & Translational Science (CTS) pilot grant mechanism is to initiate or continue translational science projects that help identify translational methods and processes relevant across a range of diseases, treatments, and interventions. The key objective of the projects should be to develop methodological innovations and/or produce crosscutting solutions for common and persistent challenges to reduce, remove, or bypass significant bottlenecks across the continuum of translation.

Applications to this program are limited to a total of $40,000 and are 12 months (1 year) in duration. There will be no ability to apply for a no cost extension with this new grant.

The Remote Biomarker Measurements in Microphysiological Systems Grant seeks innovative proposals to enhance remote biomarker analysis technologies for microphysiological systems, crucial for deep space missions. It prioritizes non-invasive, adaptable methods that allow for continuous monitoring of biomarkers without sample return. This initiative aims to advance personalized healthcare and biological research, addressing astronaut health in challenging environments. Eligible entities include U.S. institutions and collaborations with foreign entities under specific conditions.

The Edward Yoshiharu Sakuma & Kay Kubo Sakuma Student Teaching Merit Scholarship, established in 2018, supports students at the University of Hawai'i - Manoa, College of Education. It is designed for second-year graduate students or higher who demonstrate financial need and commitment to teaching in Hawai'i's public school system. Eligible applicants must have strong character, leadership skills, and a major in education, ideally planning to teach mathematics or science.

The Project Change Foundation offers small grants of $2,000 to support new or emerging Canadian charities focused on creating social or environmental change. By providing financial support and advisory services, the Foundation aims to empower organizations that demonstrate growth potential and measurable impact within their communities. Eligible applicants are encouraged to articulate their project goals clearly to enhance their chances of receiving support. This initiative fosters sustainable charitable efforts across Canada.

The Nike Community Impact Fund focuses on enhancing active, inclusive communities in the Mid-South, specifically in Shelby County (TN) and DeSoto and Marshall Counties (MS). By awarding $100,000 in grants annually, the fund supports local nonprofits and schools that create opportunities for children to engage in play, sport, and physical activity. This community-driven approach ensures that the voices of local Nike employees are integrated into the decision-making process, driving lasting change.

Texas Instructional Leadership (TIL) Program Tracker

The grant provides a consistent online program for all ESCs to use for recording action steps and coaching of LEAs and seeks to gain program management and Drupal development assistance to provide continued support.  

The Minnesota Teacher of the Year Award honors outstanding educators who inspire students and elevate the teaching profession. Nominations for 2026 are now open, inviting communities to recognize exceptional teachers who embody dedication and excellence. The award will be presented on May 3, 2026, at the Saint Paul RiverCentre. This prestigious recognition not only celebrates local talent but also positions the winner as Minnesota’s representative for the National Teacher of the Year.

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. 

Robert Woolley Scholarship

Open to graduating seniors from Stanislaus County attending a four-year university to study horticulture.

Award Amount:

• $10,000

Community Foundation of East Mississippi Inc. 

Community Foundation of East Mississippi awards grants through several competitive application processes each year. Our service area includes the following 5 counties in East Mississippi: Clarke, Kemper, Lauderdale, Neshoba and Newton.

Meridian Jaycee Leadership Grant

The Meridian Jaycees established this endowment to create a lasting legacy of commitment to this community, inspiring future leaders for generations to come.

The Jaycees hope that the grants from this endowment will spark creativity in the development of leadership and growth for the future of Meridian and East Mississippi. Grants will provide funds for leadership training, community development, and projects that contribute to a more positive image of Meridian and East Mississippi.

VCA Charities is dedicated to enhancing pet ownership by offering Disaster Relief Grants to support animal welfare organizations impacted by natural disasters. These grants provide funding for essential veterinary care, pet supplies, temporary shelter, and transportation costs for rescued animals. Prioritizing immediate relief, VCA Charities also assesses preparedness requests at year-end. The program aims to alleviate the suffering of pets and ensure they remain in loving homes during crises, addressing both urgent and long-term needs in affected communities.

The Lots of Compassion Grant, supported by KidsGardening and Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day, aims to transform vacant urban lots into thriving community gardens. By providing $20,000 to each of the 10 selected grantees, the initiative focuses on empowering under-resourced communities, fostering social connections, and enhancing mental health. The grant prioritizes organizations that involve diverse participants and demonstrate significant community impact, ensuring that the gardens not only flourish but also cultivate kindness and compassion.

2026-2028 District-Wide Classroom Review Grant

Program Description

The purpose of this grant is to support the implementation of district wide classroom reviews to support district strategic planning and performance systems alignment in a variety of Agency initiatives, including the Effective District Frameworks Diagnostics, Effective Schools Frameworks Diagnostics, and HB-1605 Local Classroom Reviews.

The District Wide Classroom Reviews Grant will provide school systems with a review to determine the degree to which the materials submitted (1) corresponds with the instructional materials adopted by the school district or district campus; and (2) meets the level of rigor of the essential knowledge and skills adopted under Section 28.002 for the grade level in which it is being used. The purpose of this project will be to provide logistics and operations support for all district wide classroom reviews and district wide diagnostics, including training and events, budget tracking and invoicing for completed district wide classroom reviews and working with designated vendors for additional supports and resources, including diagnostic platforms, as identified by TEA.

The Competitive Donor-Advised Funds - World Class Industries Grant, offered by the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations in Linn County, Iowa. With funding ranging from $500 to $10,000, grants prioritize basic health services, education aligned with Iowa Core Standards, and capital improvements. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and those with fiscal sponsors. The grant aims to enhance community well-being through impactful philanthropy and collaboration.

The Massachusetts Robotics Digital Twin Initiative aims to enhance access to robotics technology and foster the robotics entrepreneurial ecosystem across the Commonwealth. This funding opportunity, issued by the Innovation Institute's Robotics Department, will provide competitive capital grants for innovative robotic designs and applications. Projects will focus on building both physical robots and their digital twins, ensuring the resulting digital resources are publicly available for use by researchers and entrepreneurs, thus promoting collaboration and technological advancement.

The Arts Fund of Kalamazoo County, established in 1986, supports nonprofit organizations in Kalamazoo County that engage culturally diverse and historically excluded communities through artistic projects. Grants up to $5,500 are available for initiatives that remove barriers and provide access to the arts. Applicants may only apply for one grant request every 12 months and must not have outstanding obligations from previous grants. Operational support requests are not eligible.

The Creative Current Grant, provided by the City of Tempe, supports nonprofit organizations that enhance the arts in the community. With funding up to $10,000, this grant encourages high-quality, community-driven arts projects. It plays a vital role in fostering cultural growth and inclusivity, helping to strengthen public life and community ties in Tempe. This initiative is essential for sustaining the creative momentum within the city.

The AISES SPRK-ing Interest in Computer Science program engages Indigenous K-12 students through fun coding and robotics activities. By utilizing Sphero BOLT and Indi robots, students gain hands-on experience in STEM and computer science, fostering greater interest and competency in these fields. Participating schools receive essential materials and training, promoting a culturally relevant learning experience. Priority is given to middle schools, encouraging greater participation in STEM+CS education among Native students.

The Fred and Tana Moses Bridge Engineering Fellowship, established by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), aims to advance the field of bridge engineering. This annual fellowship is awarded to a graduate student pursuing an advanced degree in the discipline, providing vital support for their studies. ASCE, representing over 160,000 civil engineers worldwide, is committed to fostering professional excellence and innovation in the civil engineering community.

The 4Culture Art Projects Grants aim to enrich the cultural landscape of King County by providing funding for artistic endeavors that engage the public. These grants support various projects, emphasizing artistic integrity and community involvement. Eligible applicants include individuals and groups, with a focus on equitable access to funding for historically marginalized communities. The program encourages innovative projects that promote public events and artistic collaboration, fostering a deeper connection between artists and the community.

The Freeman Fellowship, established by the American Society of Civil Engineers in 1924, supports young engineers pursuing graduate studies in hydraulic engineering. Awarded annually to up to three deserving students, it covers tuition, research, and living expenses. This fellowship encourages the next generation of civil engineers to excel in their education and contributes to the advancement of the field, reflecting ASCE's commitment to fostering talent within the profession.

Congress created the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program in 1974 to benefit low- and moderate-income persons, prevent and eliminate conditions of slum or blight, and address other urgent community development needs. The Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC) has administered the State CDBG program since 1983, when Housing and Urban Development (HUD) moved the administration of the funds to the states. In Arkansas, the CDBG program is also known as the Arkansas Community and Economic Development Program (ACEDP).

Each year, the AEDC holds public meetings and hearings across the state to obtain citizen input on community needs. Based on that input, the agency prepares a plan to prioritize and distribute the grant funds that are part of its federal CDBG allocation. A draft of the plan is published and made available for public comment.