Best Grants for Churches in Maryland

Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofits running programs for children, education, or health and human services can seek monetary support through the Costco Foundation’s charitable contributions program. The foundation provides grants to organizations in communities where Costco operates; church-affiliated nonprofits with eligible community programs may be considered if they meet these criteria and request cash support only.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with innovative human services or social problem-solving programs in Maryland may be eligible for support from the Creag Foundation. The foundation considers invited proposals from smaller or evolving organizations developing new approaches to societal issues, which can include faith-based and church-affiliated initiatives that meet its innovation and human services focus.

Churches and faith-based 501(c)(3) organizations in Maryland serving children and youth can seek up to US $15,000 for programs advancing health, education, development, and welfare. The Dan Paul Foundation supports initiatives such as early childhood development, child advocacy, homelessness and poverty services, environmental education, refugee enrichment, and related workshops or scholarships for young people.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

Educational institutions, government programs, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and 501(c)(4) volunteer fire companies in Maryland can seek funding for safety, education, and community development initiatives. Grants from State Farm Companies Foundation help support projects such as auto and home safety, disaster preparedness and recovery, affordable housing, financial literacy, job training, and K–12 or higher education programs. Churches with eligible nonprofit programs may benefit.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

Nonprofit organizations serving the Archdiocese of Baltimore in Maryland can seek project funding for arts and humanities, Catholic activities, education, health care, and human services, including church and faith-community programs. The Marion I & Henry J Knott Foundation offers General Fund grants of US $10,000 - US $45,000, plus smaller discretionary awards, through competitive cycles and invitation-only initiatives.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

Churches, faith-based groups, and other 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Maryland can seek up to US $500 for specific community programs like child safety education, clean-up campaigns, and neighborhood watch activities. Baltimore Life Foundation prioritizes projects that enhance family, safety, and community life and already have strong volunteer involvement in place.

Focused on community and economic development, Citi Foundation invites 501(c)(3) public charities serving low-income communities to seek multi-year unrestricted support, technical assistance, and peer learning. Eligible organizations must operate in specified regions, including Montgomery or Prince George’s Counties in Maryland, and work in areas like affordable housing, workforce readiness, financial health, or small business support.

Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations seeking support for community services, environmental conservation, or peacebuilding can apply for grants through the Dudley T Dougherty Foundation. The foundation provides flexible funding that may benefit churches and faith-based groups operating eligible charitable programs in these areas.

Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities can seek funding for education, entrepreneurship, environmental, and community enrichment initiatives that serve communities near Georgia-Pacific facilities. Focused on strengthening local well-being, the Georgia-Pacific Foundation prioritizes projects within 30 miles of a GP manufacturing community, which may include church-affiliated community programs.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and libraries in Maryland seeking support for environmental or human services work can apply for unrestricted grants of US $5,000 - US $10,000. Grants from Lawrence Foundation help fund general operating or program/project costs, and Maryland faith-based organizations with eligible community or environmental programs may be considered.

IRS-registered 501(c)(3) public charities serving Prince George’s or Montgomery County residents can apply for the Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation’s competitive grants, awarding US $10,000 - US $250,000 for community services, education, arts, environment, and health programs. Maryland churches with qualifying public-charity status and community-focused programming may be eligible.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

Churches and other Maryland nonprofits offering ongoing public arts programming can access funding through Maryland State Arts Council’s Grants for Organizations program, with awards of more than US $50,000 for operating or program support. Eligible activities include dance, music, theater, visual and media arts, folk and traditional arts, literary arts, and multidisciplinary projects.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Maryland 501(c)(3) public charities providing direct services in health and human services, education, arts, or community endeavors can seek US $30,000 - US $75,000 for one-time projects and related needs. With a mission to strengthen the Washington, D.C. metro area, Philip L. Graham Fund supports nonprofits serving Charles, Montgomery, and Prince George's counties, which may include church-affiliated organizations.

With a mission to strengthen communities, Ameriprise Financial provides Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofits with funding for hunger relief, shelter, adult self-sufficiency, community development, and cultural enrichment. U.S.-based churches and faith-based organizations with eligible community programs and strong Ameriprise volunteer engagement may be competitive applicants, especially near Ameriprise employee centers.

Maryland Forestry Foundation

The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and a member of the Maryland Association of Forest Conservancy District Boards. We act as the fiscal agent for several programs of the 24 local Forestry Boards and provide important tax deductibility for their donors.

From advocating for innovative legislation that impacts Forestry in Maryland to overseeing Maryland's largest private property tree-planting operation, we're committed to making a greener and healthier future. We also actively support Urban Forestry programs, nurture the next generation of environmental leaders with the largest college fellowships in Natural Resources in the mid-Atlantic, and serve as the fiduciary agent for programs like the Natural Resources Careers Camp for high school students and the Maryland Urban & Community Forest grant program.

The PLANT Award

The Maryland Urban and Community Forestry Council (MUCFC) is a volunteer group of citizens, professionals and government officials united to protect and enhance Maryland's urban and community forested areas. Beyond their work to educate the public and to work with legislators on the issues affecting Urban Forestry in Maryland, the committee also administers a grant program that supports tree planting and tree care initiatives across the state and they manage the Maryland PLANT (People Loving and Nurturing Trees) award program.

Recognition is given to communities that have shown that they care for their trees. Communities of all types can apply for the award - schools, HOAs, parks, local governments, government facilities, scout troops and churches to name a few. The goal of the program is to provide information to communities on how they can best apply their resources to establish and maintain the health of their surrounding tree canopy.  

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

Grants from Snee-Reinhardt Charitable Foundation help Maryland religious organizations and churches fund tangible items for programs in areas like religion, education, and human services. Eligible applicants are established 501(c)(3) or similar nonprofits of at least three years, with awards up to Up to US $10,000 and preference for projects serving local communities.

Nonprofit organizations in Maryland with strong, replicable community partnerships can apply for Mutual of America Foundation’s national Community Partnership Award, which honors collaborative efforts addressing significant social issues. Faith-based and church-affiliated nonprofits may be eligible if they operate as U.S. nonprofits leading cross-sector partnerships that measurably improve lives and communities.

Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofits and 509(a) public institutions can seek funding for cultural arts, education, health, human services, historical preservation, and spiritual enlightenment projects. Focused on strengthening families and communities, Delaplaine Foundation prioritizes programs with measurable impact, especially those serving Frederick County and nearby areas, with some support extending to the District of Columbia.