Nonprofit Professional Development Grants

GRANT PROPOSAL PROCESS

The Nonprofit Professional Development Grants program provides grants of up to $1,500 to assist with fees associated with staff development training and/or conferences.

The Wabash Valley Community Foundation understands that many nonprofits work within very limited budgets, which can render professional development opportunities just out of reach. Recognizing the value of such training and conferences, it is the goal of this program to support and strengthen the nonprofits in our service area.

What expenses are covered?

The Community Foundation’s Professional Development Grants program covers some or all of the following expenses:

  • Event registration fees (excluding late fees)
  • Lodging
  • Topic-specific training/classes (excluding licensing or credentialing fees or bachelor/graduate degrees)

Awards are made:

  • based on eligibility (grantee must be the nonprofit for which the individual works, and the nonprofit must be confirmed as having a current 501(c)(3) IRS designation)
  • limited to available funds
  • processed in the order in which applications are received

Scholarships are not transferable and can be used only for professional development related to an applicant’s responsibilities within the nonprofit where they are employed.

Applications must be made at least 15 calendar days in advance of the event start date.

ELIGIBILITY AND CRITERIA

Program Guidelines

  • Grant funds are available for professional development expenses of up to $1,500 per individual, for a maximum of two participants from the nonprofit organization.
  • Grants are limited to available program funds and processed in the order in which applications are received.
  • An organization is limited to one event in any 24-month period.
  • Grants are not transferable.
  • Grant awards do not cover licensing or credentialing fees, nor bachelor/graduate degrees.

Eligible applicants include:

  • Employees of nonprofits with a current 501(c)(3) IRS designation
  • Applicants or organizations who have not received a WVCF Professional Development Grant within the 24 months preceding the event start date

Award Criteria and Requirements for Individual Applicants

  • Applications must be made at least 15 calendar days in advance of the event start date.
  • The applicant is currently employed by the nonprofit for which the professional development is being sought.
  • The applicant’s organization has insufficient funds for training.
  • The applicant’s supervisor supports the request for attendance and post-event requirements.
  • The event furthers the nonprofit organization’s mission and objectives.
  • A credible organization is sponsoring, hosting, or delivering the event.
  • The event focuses primarily on developing skills directly related to the services and goals of the nonprofit.

Post-Event Summary Report

Grant recipients are required to complete a summary report explaining how the skills and knowledge acquired from attending the event are being/will be implemented so as to enhance the work being carried out by the nonprofit.

If you have additional questions, please contact Kelli Miller at 812.232.2234.

Kelli Miller
Program Director

[email protected]