The Individualized Professional/Personal Leadership Development Fund
This initiative, born from a focus group of original Schneider Circle participants, will continue in 2027. The fund has a total budget of $15,000 for individualized professional and personal leadership development.
Nonprofits can apply for funds to participate in experiences relevant to their individual leaders or organizations, rather than the entire nonprofit community. These funds are available not only to nonprofit leaders but also to staff throughout the organization.
Grants will be awarded in early 2027 following an application and selection process.
The recipients will send an evaluation of their individual development, including a reflection of the experience and personal and organizational impact. Applicants apply committing to submit an evaluation of their own individual development. Photos of the applicant participating, receiving their certificate, or similar are encouraged for submission. If an applicant is awarded funds but is unable to participate in or complete the activity, the funds will be returned to TCF.
What type of activities would be funded?
Examples of funded activities could include participation in an industry-specific conference (we would pay for registration fees, but not travel or lodging), enrollment in classes through the Indiana University Fund Raising School, participation in Nonprofit Management or Minority Executive Leadership certificate programs through the Center for Nonprofit Resources (in Toledo), individual classes (in person or online) offered by the Center for Nonprofit Resources, organizational strategic planning assistance, and individualized coaching in topics not covered in our offerings.
While it is preferred that Professional/Personal Leadership Development fully occur or begin in 2027 (in the example of a cohort experience), individual considerations will be made concerning possibly pushing back training on a case-by-case basis.
What type of activities will NOT be funded?
Examples of activities that do not fall into this program could include enrollment in a degree program at a local college or university, travel costs to attend a conference or course, and professional development not directly related to your current organization. Activities should be for compensated employees rather than volunteers or board members. Activities that occur prior to awards being announced are not eligible for funding.
Are there any preferences?
Preference will be given to organizations who have participated in organizational strengthening activities through TCF for a significant number of years and those who are willing to provide a match to the funds requested. The goal is to provide funding to multiple organizations, so applications should not attempt to request the entire amount of funding available. A committee of several staff and board from TCF will select recipients.
