Best Vocational Rehab Grants in Pennsylvania

Students from Allegheny or Fayette counties in Pennsylvania pursuing higher or vocational education at Pennsylvania-based colleges or universities can receive multi-year scholarship support through the Semensky Scholarship Fund. Pittsburgh Foundation awards go to U.S. citizens or permanent residents with financial need, strong GPAs, and a preference for first-generation college students.

Caroline J.S. Sanders Trust 2 provides Pennsylvania 501(c)(3) organizations with US $3,000 - US $7,000 for education, health, human services, public benefit, and related programs. Nonprofits offering vocational or trade education, scholarships, or workforce-related services—especially for youth, elderly, indigent, homeless, or disabled populations—may be strong candidates.

Pennsylvania students pursuing vocational, trade, or other postsecondary education can access funding through the Ritton Family Foundation’s Par Mar Stores Scholarship Program. High school seniors and undergraduates are considered based on academics, community involvement, activities, work experience, career goals, and financial need, with multiple scholarships available and the option to reapply each year.

Norfolk Southern Foundation provides Pennsylvania vocational and trade students with US $5,000 scholarships for rail-industry training. Individuals enrolled in eligible post-secondary trade, technical, community college, or railway certification programs in select states may receive support for careers such as locomotive engineer, conductor, maintenance, welding, electrical, construction, or heavy equipment operation.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Pennsylvania seeking up to US $10,000 for tangible items to support education, vocational and trade training, and related community services may be eligible. Snee-Reinhardt Charitable Foundation supports programs that improve social conditions, expand education, and enhance job readiness, with precedence for Pittsburgh and Southwestern Pennsylvania groups.

Female graduating high school seniors in Cumberland, Dauphin, Perry, or Lancaster County planning vocational or higher education in fashion, fashion design, or business may be eligible for the Mary Sachs Memorial Scholarship Fund in Pennsylvania. Grants from The Foundation for Enhancing Communities support full-time study at 2- or 4-year colleges or trade schools, with extra consideration for in-state schools.

Larger, established 501(c)(3) nonprofits providing vocational and trade education or health-related programs in Pennsylvania and other eligible U.S. locations can seek multi-year program continuation or expansion funding. The L.B. Research and Education Foundation supports work addressing educational and health opportunity gaps for adolescents, post-secondary students, and adults, with a focus on underserved populations and innovative, research-informed approaches; awards range from US $10,000 - US $75,000.

Nonprofit and community organizations in Pennsylvania working on career awareness, technical or vocational training, or broader workforce readiness can apply for CNX Foundation’s CNX Foundation Grant. Funding supports tangible, local programs in Appalachian communities, and may benefit vocational rehab initiatives that address job skills, reentry services, or related socio-economic challenges.

Nonprofit charitable organizations in Pennsylvania can apply for KeyBank Foundation grants supporting vocational and trade training, workforce readiness, and community development. Typical awards range from $10,000 to $25,000 and prioritize measurable, sustainable outcomes, especially projects advancing diversity, inclusion, financial capability, and long-term economic mobility for underserved residents.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) public charities serving adults with workforce development or small business support programs in Pennsylvania can apply for Truist Foundation grants of more than US $15,000. Truist Foundation provides Pennsylvania vocational and trade education nonprofits with funding to build career pathways, reskill and upskill workers, and strengthen supports for diverse and women-owned small businesses.

High school seniors in Armstrong County, Pennsylvania pursuing higher education in drawing, design, architecture, or industrial arts programs can receive scholarship support for vocational and trade-related studies. With a mission to strengthen education, Armstrong County Community Foundation provides merit-based, nonrenewable awards for students attending approved 2- or 4-year colleges, technical schools, or select certificate programs within 300 miles.

High school seniors and adult students pursuing trade arts at accredited career, vocational-technical schools, or community colleges in Pennsylvania can receive scholarship support for their vocational education. The Armstrong County Community Foundation gives preference to seniors or post-graduate students from Armstrong, Butler, Elk, or Cameron counties, helping them prepare for skilled occupations in the region.

Apprenticeships on the Move

The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) announces the availability of approximately $4,000,000 in funding for Apprenticeships on the Move: Advancing Pennsylvania’s Workforce. 

The purpose of this NGA is to support the development of new registered apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships, or the expansion of existing registered apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships that strengthen Pennsylvania's workforce and advance the Commonwealth's economic development priorities. Applicants should demonstrate how their proposed project addresses workforce needs within the industry or occupation served and supports the goals of Governor Shapiro's Ten-Year Strategic Plan for Economic Development and the Pennsylvania WIOA Combined State Plan.

Public school districts and area career and technical schools in Pennsylvania can apply for Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Public School Facility Improvement Grant Program; awards US $500,000 - US $5,000,000 for major facility upgrades. Funding can support HVAC, roofs, plumbing, energy-saving projects, accessibility, health and safety, internet connectivity, and related improvements that may benefit vocational and trade education spaces.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations focused on workforce preparation, vocational education, or youth career readiness in Pennsylvania can apply for funding to build in-demand skills, provide work experiences, and support job readiness. RBC Foundation USA provides support for programs that help people gain credentials, bridge school-to-work transitions, and overcome barriers to sustained employment.

Students ages 18–25 in Western Pennsylvania pursuing vocational or trade programs can receive multi-year scholarship support for accredited trade schools or 2-year colleges in Pennsylvania. The Pittsburgh Foundation supports vocational and trade education by funding the Economic Opportunity Scholarship in Trade and Apprenticeship for residents of Allegheny and six surrounding counties who demonstrate financial need.

Community-based, tax-exempt or fiscally sponsored organizations in Pennsylvania and the broader Mid-Atlantic can seek up to US $200,000 for workforce development in community forestry and arboriculture. Focused on vocational and trade education, the Chesapeake Bay Trust supports job training, apprenticeships, and career pathways that advance environmental justice in disadvantaged communities.

The Laurel High School Alumni Association Scholarships, managed by the Delaware Community Foundation, provide vital financial assistance to graduating seniors whose parents have been active members for at least three years. These scholarships can be applied to both two-year and four-year colleges or trade schools, supporting students with a minimum GPA of 2.50. For the 2024-2025 school year, a record $850,000 was awarded to 245 students, showcasing the foundation's commitment to advancing educational opportunities.

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports nearly 70 academic, sports, special circumstances, and 4-H scholarships. Search scholarships by name, or sort by application type.

Eugene Curfman Foundation Scholarship

The purpose of the Eugene Curfman Foundation Scholarship is to give scholarships to two graduating seniors from either Francis Scott Key High School or a home school program in the Taneytown, Union Bridge, New Windsor areas for college and/or trade school assistance in concentration fields of Accounting; Emergency Service; Cyber Security, and Trades (ie. electrical; plumbing; masonry; HVAC; vehicle mechanics; and building construction). The scholarship will be offered to recipients for additional years based on meeting specified criteria. The scholarship has been established as his way of paying forward his success that was enabled by having received scholarships to attend college.

The money shall be transmitted by the Community Foundation of Carroll County directly to the desired college or university and applied directly to the student's tuition and books. The monies shall not be remitted to the FUND winner.

This scholarship will be offered to recipients on a continuing basis for up to three additional consecutive years (or the completion of the student’s training program, whichever is less) based on maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0 and providing an official transcript to the selection committee.

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports nearly 70 academic, sports, special circumstances, and 4-H scholarships. Search scholarships by name, or sort by application type.

Christopher H Knorr Memorial Scholarship

In July of 2022, Chris Knorr unexpectedly passed away. Chris Knorr was a loving father, baseball/softball/basketball coach in the area, an active member of his church, and a friendly face to all in the community. Chris always believed everyone should follow their heart and make an impact in any way possible. Our goal is to raise money for scholarships for South Carroll, Century and Liberty High School that goes to 1 or 2 seniors at each school who is involved in the community and made an impact, and to continue on his legacy.

• Scholarships are one time only.
• The amount of the award will vary based upon the earnings of the fund, minimum $500 per scholarship.
• The money shall be transmitted by the Foundation directly to the desired college or university and applied directly to the student's tuition and books. The monies shall not be remitted to the scholarship winner.

Bring Back the Trades Tool Grant Program 

Across the country, vocational programs are often forced to teach with outdated, broken, or consumer-grade equipment. The Bring Back the Trades Grant Program changes the narrative by putting “Nothing But Heavy Duty” technology into the hands of students. By providing professional tools, we show students that their education—and their future career—is worth the highest standard of equipment.

Thanks to numerous schools and programs letting us know they need help supporting future tradespeople, we have made a commitment to grant $1,500 in tools monthly to a public school or nonprofit. Milwaukee Tool committed to supporting the program through 2026, so the awards in 2026 will be shipped directly to winning organization by Milwaukee Tool!

Objective: To equip public schools and community nonprofits with professional-grade Milwaukee Tool kits, fostering a culture of craftsmanship, safety, and respect for the tools of the trade.

Application Deadline: Rolling. A winner will be chosen each month from applications received over the previous six months. The winner will be notified via phone or email. The winner will receive the tools requested (based on availability and up to $1,500 in retail value). Tools and equipment/supplies will be shipped only to the address on the application. Applicants that have not been chosen as a winner of the grant may reapply after six months. Schools/organizations may win no more than once in a 3-year time period.

Community Foundation of Carroll County

The Community Foundation of Carroll County, Inc. was established in 1994 to ensure financial support for Carroll County not-for-profit organizations. It is governed by a Board of Directors and is a 501c(3) public charity. The Community Foundation of Carroll County is trusted partner for donors and nonprofits. We provide one central place where anyone can create a charitable fund, support what matters most, and leave a legacy of lasting impact.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Carroll County supports more than 75 scholarships. These scholarships vary in the amounts they award and cover a wide variety of student interests. Qualifiers range from academic achievements, sports played, and community service performed, to 4-H and FFA involvement. While the majority are for graduating Carroll County high school seniors, there are several for students in college or technical school, and even opportunities for students attending private primary school. 

4-H Brenda Barber 4-H Family Memorial Scholarship

The purpose of The Brenda Barber Family Memorial Scholarship is to honor the life and family of Brenda Barber by providing scholarship(s) for graduating high school seniors and continuing students who are members of Carroll County 4-H Clubs. 

Applicants must be starting college in the fall OR current college student at any community college, trade school or four-year institution. The scholarship check will be written out and mailed directly to said college or trade school. 

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Gerald D. Barnes Family Scholarship Fund

Gerald D. Barnes, a 1942 Colon High School graduate, was a standout four-year varsity first baseman. Following high school, he attended Argubright Business College for one year. He married Vera H. Kellogg in 1944, a 1942 graduate of Battle Creek Central - one of only two of 13 siblings to graduate high school. Vera played baseball during the time men where off at war and Gerald often kept score for her team. Their honeymoon was spent at a Detroit Tigers game and their love of baseball continued their entire lives. In 1945, Gerald was drafted into the U.S. Army and they put his business education to good use processing soldiers coming home from WWII. As a veteran he had been called a hero, but disagreed stating, "Those who fought overseas were the true heroes." Once discharged in 1946, he wore a flag pin every day, proudly displaying his love of Country and rests forever with his pin over his heart.

Following his service, Gerald worked at Post Cereals Carton and Container Division in Battle Creek for 40 years. Higher education was not common amongst Gerald's generation, but he and Vera understood their children and grandchild would need it to succeed and to this end, supported their education in every way they could. Their daughter received a certificate from Kellogg Community College and retired from Battle Creek Public Schools after 44 years. Their son earned a Bachelor's degree from Western Michigan University, and after serving our Country during the Vietnam conflict, earned his Master's from Utah State University. Their grand-daughter graduated from BCCHS 50 years to the day after Vera, and received her Bachelor's degree from Drury University. Through this scholarship, the Barnes family leaves a legacy that will support Battle Creek Public Schools graduates in obtaining higher education in a skilled trade field.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Robert and Diana Williams Scholarship Fund

The Robert and Diana Williams Scholarship Fund was established to give more opportunities to those seeking to further their education through non-degreed training programs in the skilled trades, apprenticeship or certificate programs. The Williams' believe the skilled trades provide essential services for which there will always be a need and are the lifeblood of our country

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Raymond J. Pontoni Entrepreneur Scholarship Fund

The fund was established in Honor of the memory of Raymond J. Pontoni, past CEO of Nottawa Gardens Corporation and Athens Community Leader to assist Athens graduating seniors and adults seeking to further their education and business needs, through training programs in the skilled trades, associate degrees, apprenticeships, or certificate programs, and to help aid the creation and development of their Entrepreneural Goals and economic ventures.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Ty Larson Fuller Scholarship Fund

The Ty Larson Fuller Scholarship Fund was established by the Fuller family and the Family Enrichment Center to honor the life of Ty Larson Fuller. Ty, was a young man with a determined spirit, who despite many challenges in his life, fought the odds to reach his goals. He also valued being a team player, building skills, and spending time with his family. This scholarship supports foster, adoptive, and kinship students under the age of 26 as they pursue higher education in the skilled trades.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Satish Koneru Scholarship Fund

Dr. Prasadarao and Lakshmi Koneru established this scholarship to honor their son, Satish Koneru, who died in 1985 at age 23. Satish was a graduate of Kimball High School in Royal Oak, Michigan. He attended Oakland University and was a student at Kellogg Community College. Satish is remembered as a considerate and compassionate young man who understood so much about his own life. He faced each day with courage and accomplished many of his personal goals. Even during the most difficult moments of his illness, he was able to unselfishly reflect on the love of his family, expressing his thoughts to a friend who would pass them along after his death. Recipients of this scholarship are graduating seniors with a physical limitation or disability from a greater Battle Creek area public school who is pursuing educational opportunities at a 2 or 4 year college, or a trade school, anywhere in the United States. The student must show academic performance and strong motivation for achieving personal goals.