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Best Grants for 501(c)(3)

Explore grants specifically for 501(c)(3) nonprofits supporting diverse missions in education, health, environment, and social justice.

33,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

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32,595 Results based on applied filters

AWWA Scholarship Program - American Water Scholarship

American Water Works Association (AWWA)
Association/Society
North America
US $5,000
The AWWA Scholarship Program, administered by the American Water Works Association, offers a $5,000 scholarship to graduate-level students pursuing careers in the water industry. Recognizing the vital role of future professionals, AWWA aims to support education in water supply and wastewater management through this scholarship initiative. Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest U.S. investor-owned water utility, emphasizing the importance of investing in education for sustainable water solutions.
Water Resource Management Waste Management Academic Scholarship Programs

Housing Place-Based Services RFP

City and County of San Francisco: Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development
State/Local Government
San Francisco County, California
Up to US $500,000

About MOHCD and This Funding Opportunity

Our Mission

The mission of the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development (MOHCD) is to support San Franciscans with affordable housing opportunities and essential services that help build strong communities.

Housing Place-Based Services Request for Proposals

Through this RFP, MOHCD seeks nonprofit partners to provide place-based services that help maintain housing stability and reduce displacement among residents of federally subsidized housing properties. These funds will support effective, accessible, and culturally responsive Housing Place-Based Services that advance individual and collective opportunity, support community resilience, and strengthen housing stability.

Services funded through this RFP shall be delivered on-site to extremely low-income residents of federally subsidized affordable housing developments and/or cooperatives.

Equitable & Affordable Housing Homelessness Services Economic Services & Development +4 more

Pride Foundation Community Grants Program

Pride Foundation
Private
Alaska, Idaho +3 more
Approximately US $10,000
The Pride Foundation Community Grants Program supports LGBTQ+ organizations in the Northwest by providing consistent funding to advance equity and justice. Since 1987, over $12 million has been awarded, with a focus on innovative and grassroots organizations. The 2024 cycle includes both proactive grants and open applications, ensuring accessibility for all eligible groups. This initiative centers on racial justice and aims to empower BIPOC and TGNC communities, fostering health, education, and community-building efforts.
LGBTQIA+ Services Sexuality & LGBTQIA+ Rights Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights +1 more

Crail-Johnson Foundation - Health Grants

Crail-Johnson Foundation
Private
Los Angeles County, California
Unspecified amount
The Crail-Johnson Foundation focuses on enhancing the well-being of children and families in Los Angeles through grants aimed at Health, Human Services, and Education. It supports non-profit organizations that provide essential services, prioritizing communities such as San Pedro and Watts. The Foundation emphasizes mental health, access to care, and innovative programs for disadvantaged youth. Grants are typically one-year, with a focus on systemic change and proven approaches to community health and education.
School Health Health Facilities & Clinics Preventative Healthcare +5 more

New Hampshire Victim Services Competitive Grant

New Hampshire Department of Justice
State/Local Government
New Hampshire
Up to US $300,000

Grant Applicants

New Hampshire Victim Services Funding Opportunity

A funding opportunity for organizations that provide victim services for the State of New Hampshire is being released through a Request for Proposal through the New Hampshire Department of Justice (NH DOJ). This funding is dedicated to supporting programs for direct services to victims of crime.  

Special consideration will be made for projects that support victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse.

Crime Victim Services Domestic Violence Sexual Assault / Abuse +3 more

Greater Milwaukee Foundation Grant Cycle 1

Greater Milwaukee Foundation Inc
Private
Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, Ozaukee County, Wisconsin +2 more
Unspecified amount
The Greater Milwaukee Foundation Grant Cycle 1 supports projects and programs that align with priorities for creating a Milwaukee for all. Funding is available for arts, basic needs, housing, and physical health initiatives. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and governmental agencies, with specific requirements for board diversity. The foundation does not fund individuals, for-profit organizations, or partisan activities. The grant cycle accepts one application per organization.
Equitable & Affordable Housing Basic Human Needs Homeownership +4 more

Sonnentag Foundation Grant

Sonnentag Foundation Ltd.
Corporate
Barron County, Wisconsin, Brown County, Wisconsin +26 more
Unspecified amount
The Sonnentag Foundation Grant supports organizations in cities where County Materials Corporation operates, focusing on four key areas: Hunger & Homelessness Support, Service Members & Veterans Support, Sexual Abuse & Domestic Assault Services, and Mentoring & Skills Building. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) recognized organizations that serve the broader community. The foundation aims to empower vulnerable populations, including veterans, to lead fulfilling lives and provide essential services for healing and personal development.
Tutoring & Mentoring Domestic Violence Sexual Assault / Abuse +4 more

Louisiana Project Grants: Region 1

Arts Council New Orleans
Private
Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, Orleans Parish, Louisiana +1 more
US $2,500 - US $7,500
The Louisiana Project Grants program, administered by the Louisiana Division of the Arts and regional arts councils, provides funding for diverse arts projects across the state. With $1 million allocated from the Louisiana Office of Tourism, artists, schools, and nonprofits can develop initiatives that address local community needs. The program supports various artistic disciplines, including dance, music, visual arts, and literature, fostering innovation and cultural impact in each region.
Arts / Culture Access & Participation Dance Design +6 more

Youth4Climate

United Nations Development Programme
Federal Government
Afghanistan, Albania +156 more
Unspecified amount
The Youth4Climate initiative, led by the Government of Italy and UNDP, empowers young people to drive impactful climate action by providing up to $30,000 for innovative solutions. This funding targets five key areas: Climate Literacy, Sustainable Energy, Food and Agriculture, Nature Assets, and Sustainable Consumption. Successful applicants will gain access to technical support, mentorship, and storytelling platforms, ensuring their projects can thrive and inspire change on a global scale.
Climate Change Resilience & Equity Renewable/Sustainable Energy Environmental Stewardship +3 more

Joint Institute for Wood Products Innovation Grant

California Board of Forestry
State/Local Government
California
US $5,000 - US $450,000
The Joint Institute for Wood Products Innovation Grant for FY 2025-2026, sponsored by the California Board of Forestry, aims to enhance sustainable forest restoration efforts across California. This grant focuses on projects that support long-term ecosystem sustainability, carbon storage, and innovative wood products. Eligible activities include research and development in biomass utilization and workforce development, with a preference for projects that meet current state needs in advancing wood and biomass utilization.
Forestry Biofuels Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness +1 more

Atlanta Foundation Grant

Atlanta Foundation
Private
DeKalb County, Georgia, Fulton County, Georgia
Unspecified amount
The Atlanta Foundation Grant aims to enhance the welfare of communities in Fulton and DeKalb counties, Georgia. Established in 1921, the foundation focuses on supporting charitable and educational institutions that foster education, scientific research, and community well-being. Grants are available for qualified 501(c)(3) organizations within these counties, emphasizing program grants and operating projects. The foundation is committed to improving the lives of residents, irrespective of their race or creed, ensuring a positive impact on the community.
Education Science Recreation +9 more

PSEG Foundation Giving - Requests for Funding

PSEG Foundation
Corporate
Albany County, New York, Bergen County, New Jersey +21 more
Up to US $10,000
The PSEG Foundation provides funding for events and initiatives that enhance community safety and environmental stewardship in areas where they operate, such as New Jersey and New York. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits that align with the foundation's focus areas, including sustainable neighborhoods and safety preparedness. The application process is rolling, with a response time of 8 to 12 weeks. Proposals must be submitted online between January 1 and October 31, at least eight weeks before the event.
Environmental Education Sustainability Environmental Stewardship +4 more

Harvard Radcliffe Fellowship: Humanities, Social Sciences, and Creative Arts

President And Fellows Of Harvard College
Private
Middlesex County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
The Harvard Radcliffe Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for scholars, artists, and public intellectuals to engage deeply in their projects within a diverse and interdisciplinary community. Each year, 50 fellowships are awarded, encouraging applications from various fields, including humanities, social sciences, and creative arts. The program emphasizes diversity, collegiality, and creativity, welcoming individual or group applications. Fellows benefit from Harvard's extensive resources, allowing them to challenge conventions and explore innovative ideas.
Art & Culture Humanities & Social Science Environmental Justice & Advocacy +3 more

Fifth Third Foundation Grants: Evansville, IN Foundations

Fifth Third Foundation
Corporate
Vanderburgh County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Fifth Third Foundation in Evansville, IN, focuses on funding programs that foster community development, health services, education, and the arts. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving designated regions, such as Evansville and Chicago. The foundation prioritizes organizations with a history of recent funding. Notably, grants cannot support individuals or certain event sponsorships. This strategic approach aims to create meaningful impacts in communities by aligning resources with local needs.
Religion & Spirituality Volunteerism & Philanthropy Science +9 more

Wolpoff Family Foundation Grant

Wolpoff Family Foundation Inc
Private
Maryland
Unspecified amount
The Wolpoff Family Foundation Grant seeks to support established organizations in Montgomery County, Maryland, that have been operational for at least five years. This foundation aims to foster community development, education, and medical research, and invites re-applications from previously funded organizations. Grants are available for specific initiatives, with a maximum award of $15,000 for first-time grantees, focusing on measurable impacts and community needs.
Art & Culture Career / College Preparation Education +7 more

James H Cummings Foundation Grants: Cycle 1 and Cycle 3 - Buffalo & Hendersonville

James H Cummings Foundation Inc
Private
Canada, Erie County, New York +1 more
Unspecified amount

James H Cummings Foundation

The James H. Cummings Foundation is a charitable, not-for-profit corporation organized in New York State in July, 1962 for the purpose of complying with certain provisions in the will of its founder and namesake. Admired for his unassuming manner, friendly demeanor, and quiet generosity, Cummings was dedicated to giving back to the communities he once called home.

The Foundation’s focus is on funding not-for-profits making strides in medical research, science and post-secondary education in Buffalo, Toronto, and Hendersonville, North Carolina. In addition, we focus on funding programming for vulnerable people of all ages—children to older adults—in Buffalo and Hendersonville.

James H Cummings Foundation Grants

Our Focus

The Foundation focuses on supporting 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organizations whose missions and services align with our guidelines and mission:

  • To advance medical research, science, and post-secondary medical education in Buffalo and Hendersonville, North Carolina.
  • To provide services for vulnerable children and children with disabilities that will enhance high school graduation rates with a focus on the quality of out-of-school (before and after school and summer care) for school age children and early care and education programs and initiatives in Buffalo and Hendersonville, North Carolina.
  • To assist older adults and vulnerable adults with services that help them maintain independent, healthy, and active lifestyles, remaining in their own homes when possible in Buffalo and Hendersonville, North Carolina.
  • To advance medical research in Toronto.
Senior Services Health & Medicine Medical Education & Professional Training +7 more

Institute of Sacred Music (ISM) Fellowship: Postdoctoral Associates

Yale University
Private
New Haven County, Connecticut
US $68,500 - US $79,500
The Institute of Sacred Music (ISM) Fellowship at Yale University offers postdoctoral associates a unique opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary research and artistic projects. Selected fellows will contribute to the vibrant community of the ISM, collaborating with faculty and students across various disciplines. The fellowship includes financial support ranging from $65,000 to $76,000, with a focus on teaching and scholarly engagement. This program encourages diversity and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.
Music Humanities & Social Science Sociology +9 more

Internship Grants

Washington County Community Foundation
Private
Washington County, Pennsylvania
Up to US $2,500
The Washington County Community Foundation offers Internship Grants aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Washington County. These grants support nonprofit organizations by providing monetary stipends for student interns engaged in services while enrolled in accredited post-secondary education. With a commitment to philanthropy, the Foundation ensures effective charitable giving, promoting community improvement across various focus areas, including education, health, and arts.
Apprenticeship & Internship Programs Volunteerism & Philanthropy Animal Welfare - General +10 more

Young Scientists Summer Program: NMO Fellowships

International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA)
Private
Austria
Approximately €1,700
The Young Scientists Summer Program (YSSP) at IIASA invites advanced Ph.D. students to apply for research opportunities that address global challenges. This program, running since 1977, supports interdisciplinary projects and offers stipends, typically €1700 monthly plus airfare. Participants will engage with 50 peers and senior researchers, contributing to IIASA's mission of advancing systems analysis. Applicants should ensure their research aligns with IIASA's agenda and be prepared for the program's full three-month duration in Laxenburg, Austria.
Science Environment Natural Resources +5 more

Project Support: Small Grants

Kirkpatrick Family Fund
Private
Oklahoma
Up to US $15,000
The Kirkpatrick Family Fund offers Project Support through small grants aimed at enhancing community quality of life in central Oklahoma. Eligible projects must achieve measurable outcomes within a specific timeframe and align with the organization's mission. The fund prioritizes support for arts, education, health, and community development initiatives. Importantly, it excludes requests for ongoing program support or capital projects, ensuring a focus on impactful, time-limited projects that benefit local communities.
Art & Culture Education Youth Services +12 more

James H Cummings Foundation Grants: Cycle 2 and Cycle 4 - Buffalo & Toronto

James H Cummings Foundation Inc
Private
Canada, Erie County, New York +1 more
Unspecified amount

James H Cummings Foundation

The James H. Cummings Foundation is a charitable, not-for-profit corporation organized in New York State in July, 1962 for the purpose of complying with certain provisions in the will of its founder and namesake. Admired for his unassuming manner, friendly demeanor, and quiet generosity, Cummings was dedicated to giving back to the communities he once called home.

The Foundation’s focus is on funding not-for-profits making strides in medical research, science and post-secondary education in Buffalo, Toronto, and Hendersonville, North Carolina. In addition, we focus on funding programming for vulnerable people of all ages—children to older adults—in Buffalo and Hendersonville.

James H Cummings Foundation Grants

Our Focus

The Foundation focuses on supporting 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organizations whose missions and services align with our guidelines and mission:

  • To advance medical research, science, and post-secondary medical education in Buffalo and Hendersonville, North Carolina.
  • To provide services for vulnerable children and children with disabilities that will enhance high school graduation rates with a focus on the quality of out-of-school (before and after school and summer care) for school age children and early care and education programs and initiatives in Buffalo and Hendersonville, North Carolina.
  • To assist older adults and vulnerable adults with services that help them maintain independent, healthy, and active lifestyles, remaining in their own homes when possible in Buffalo and Hendersonville, North Carolina.
  • To advance medical research in Toronto.
Senior Services Science Health & Medicine +7 more

Standard Semi-Annual Robert C. Hoffman Grants Program

Adams County Community Foundation
Private
Adams County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Robert C. Hoffman Charitable Endowment Trust offers semi-annual grants to nonprofit organizations benefiting residents of Adams County, PA. The trust aims to promote social welfare by supporting various causes, including education, animal welfare, and assistance for the needy. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status. Grants are not provided for organizations outside of Adams County unless a clear benefit to local residents can be demonstrated. This initiative strengthens community support and addresses local needs.
Religion & Spirituality Animal Welfare - General Recreation +13 more

Institute of Sacred Music (ISM) Fellowship: Short-Term Fellows

Yale University
Private
New Haven County, Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The Institute of Sacred Music (ISM) Fellowship offers short-term opportunities for scholars and artists to engage with Yale's rich collections. This fellowship, lasting one to three months, enables fellows to research various aspects of religious thought and practice. It promotes interdisciplinary collaboration across fields such as anthropology, musicology, and theology. Ideal for doctoral students or scholars with terminal degrees, the fellowship supports projects that align with the ISM's mission of fostering the arts in human flourishing.
Music Humanities & Social Science Sociology +9 more

Eco-Living Fund Grant

Charlottesville Area Community Foundation
Private
Albemarle County, Virginia, Buckingham County, Virginia +6 more
Up to US $7,000
The Eco-Living Fund Grant, managed by the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation, seeks to promote sustainable living through projects that encourage zero-footprint and net-positive practices. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations and government agencies within the foundation's service area. Grants support initiatives that demonstrate measurable outcomes in resource conservation and community engagement. The fund aims for projects that not only enhance environmental sustainability but can also serve as models for broader change, potentially saving costs for participants.
Sustainability Energy Efficiency & Conservation Water Resource Management +1 more

Peridot Foundation Grant

Peridot Foundation
Private
Tolland County, Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The Peridot Foundation Grant aims to enhance the welfare of the Hebron, Connecticut community by supporting local charitable organizations. This includes funding for children's programs, public safety initiatives, and community services. Additionally, the foundation promotes medical research activities and provides assistance to various charitable organizations. Through these efforts, the Peridot Foundation seeks to create a positive impact on the lives of residents and foster a spirit of giving within the community.
Disability Care & Services Cystic Fibrosis Youth Services +9 more

Institute of Sacred Music (ISM) Fellowship: Long-term Fellows

Yale University
Private
New Haven County, Connecticut
Unspecified amount
The Institute of Sacred Music (ISM) Fellowship at Yale University offers long-term fellowships for scholars and artists whose work aligns with the Institute's mission. Each year, a diverse group of fellows engages in interdisciplinary projects, exploring areas from Buddhist chant to African American sacred music. This fellowship provides access to Yale's rich resources, allowing fellows to teach courses and participate actively in a vibrant academic community, fostering the integration of arts and theology.
Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges Music Sociology +9 more

RFP: Provide Peer Support Services in Todd County

Minnesota Department of Human Services
State/Local Government
Todd County, Minnesota
US $300,000
The Minnesota Department of Human Services is seeking proposals for organizations to provide Peer Support Services in Todd County. This initiative aims to support individuals recovering from substance use and mental health issues, especially those transitioning from incarceration. The contract is expected to last for 27 months, with potential extensions. By expanding peer support services, the initiative addresses critical recovery needs and helps prevent overdose deaths among vulnerable populations.
Community / Public Safety Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Addiction & Substance Use Disorders +2 more

Grants for 501(c)(3) Highlights

Grants for 501(c)(3) organizations provide essential funding to support nonprofit missions across various sectors. These grants empower tax-exempt entities to deliver impactful programs, grow operations, and address community needs.


Search Instrumentl's 501(c)(3) Grants Database


Discover 8,000+ active grants for 501(c)(3) organizations, with $3.43B available. Instrumentl streamlines the grant search process for nonprofits, offering tools for deadline tracking, customized searches, and access to funder insights.

Grant Insights : Grants for 501(c)(3)

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Quite common — grants in this category are more prevalent than in others.

8,000+ Grants for 501(c)(3) grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

3,000+ Grants for 501(c)(3) over $25K in average grant size

3,000+ Grants for 501(c)(3) over $50K in average grant size

1,000+ Grants for 501(c)(3) supporting general operating expenses

7,000+ Grants for 501(c)(3) supporting programs / projects

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Environment

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Food Access & Hunger

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for grants for 501(c)(3)?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
29.8%
Q2
23.8%
Q3
23.9%
Q4
22.6%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Grants for 501(c)(3)?

Grants are most commonly $34,887.

$0 $0 Min.
$34,887 $34.9 K Median
$655,609 $655.6 K Average
$188,250,000 $188.3 M Max.

Frequently asked questions

In general, any organization that has a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status will qualify for these grants.

Grants for 501(c)(3) organizations play a vital role in supporting nonprofit missions across diverse sectors. By providing essential funding, these grants enable tax-exempt organizations to implement meaningful programs, expand their operations, and effectively address pressing community needs.

In general, grants for 501(c)(3) organizations have the highest concentration of deadlines in Q1, with 29.8% of grant deadlines falling in this period. If you're planning to apply, consider prioritizing your applications around this time to maximize opportunities. Conversely, the least active period for grants in this category is Q4.

These grants are designed to help tax-exempt nonprofit organizations positively impact their communities. The funding can cover things like ongoing operations costs, program development needs, and capacity-building efforts.

Funding for all 501(c)(3) charitable organizations varies widely, with award amounts ranging from a minimum of $0 to a maximum of $188,250,000. Based on Instrumentl’s data, the median grant amount for this category is $34,887, while the average grant awarded is $655,609. Understanding these funding trends can help nonprofits set realistic expectations when applying.

501(c)(3) grants are awarded by all types of funders, including private foundations, corporations, government agencies, and donor-advised funds. The Ford Foundation and the Gates Foundation are two examples.

Federal, state, and local governments offer grants to support nonprofit operations and specific projects. Other private foundations like the Bank of America Charitable Foundation, the Walmart Foundation, the Coca-Cola Foundation, and numerous others provide a wide range of funding opportunities tailored to different charitable causes and sectors.

To increase their chances of securing grants, nonprofits should consider the following strategies:

  • Match Funder Goals – Ensure their proposals align with the funder's mission and priorities.
  • Show Measurable Results – Use data to demonstrate past achievements and future potential.
  • Form Key Partnerships – Collaborate with relevant organizations, such as healthcare providers and community groups, to enhance credibility.
  • Tell a Compelling Story – Use real-life examples and case studies to illustrate the impact of your program.

Learn more about how to conduct effective grant research.

Instrumentl helps nonprofits apply for 501(c)(3) grants more easily. It matches them with the right funding opportunities, analyzes what funders are looking for, and keeps track of deadlines in one place.

See how the Los Angeles LGBT Center cut down weekly admin time from 2-4 hours to less than 30 minutes.