Upcoming Webinar
Instrumentl Fall Launch: Grant Work, Leveled Up.
Thu, Oct 29 or Wed, Nov 4 @ 2PM ET

Skip to main content
Main content

Best Grants for 501(c)(3)

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

32,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

Skip the search.

Get matched with grants that actually fit.

Smart recommendations based on your profile — in minutes.

Find me grants

Filters

32,423 Results based on applied filters

Schumann Fund for New Jersey Grant

Schumann Fund for New Jersey Inc.
Private
Essex County, New Jersey
Unspecified amount
The Schumann Fund for New Jersey Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on affordable housing, early childhood education, and child welfare. With a commitment to fostering economic mobility and healthy communities, the Fund emphasizes collaboration and effective resource utilization. As of 2025, funding will primarily be available for renewal applications, while new proposals will be accepted starting January 15, 2026. This initiative aims to create lasting positive change in social and educational services for vulnerable populations.
Early Childhood Development Education - Preschool / Early Learning Child Welfare Services +6 more

Youth Climate Justice Fund

Climate Group Inc.
Private
Africa, Americas +2 more
Up to US $40,000

About Us

The Youth Climate Justice Fund aims to support climate justice young leaders with trust-based funding, resources, and capacity strengthening, enabling them to amplify their voices and to keep their vision and influence alive.

Collectively, we have the power to ignite meaningful change and build equitable and sustainable futures. Despite the challenges posed by the current crisis, youth climate justice organizers remain determined to address current issues and explore new approaches.

Mission & Purpose

We work to strengthen existing organizing efforts and support emerging youth-led initiatives with a focus on bridging funders and organizers to enable flexible and impactful support. Through capacity strengthening and resource sharing, we empower and support young people to drive change and build a just and sustainable future.

How To Apply

The Youth Climate Justice Fund provides funding to emerging youth-led climate justice and socio-environmental groups through a participatory decision-making process.

Environmental Justice & Advocacy Climate Change Resilience & Equity Sustainability +3 more

CFSCC Community Grants

Community Foundation Santa Cruz County
Private
Santa Cruz County, California
Unspecified amount
The CFSCC Community Grants aim to inspire philanthropy by funding nonprofits in Santa Cruz County that address local needs. This year, $1.2 million will support initiatives focused on youth education, seniors, and human services. The grants prioritize unrestricted funding to ensure organizations can address pressing issues while promoting equity and inclusion. With a commitment to empowering diverse leaders, the foundation seeks to create lasting positive impacts across the community.
Community Services Youth Services Youth Development & Leadership +10 more

ACBOCI Charitable Grants

Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians
Private
Riverside County, California
Unspecified amount
The ACBOCI Charitable Grants program, offered by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, aims to support local community initiatives. Since the establishment of their casino in Palm Springs, the Tribe has donated millions to various local organizations, schools, and food banks. They prioritize funding for nonprofit organizations within the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation and the Coachella Valley, particularly those with IRS 501(c)(3) status.
Health & Medicine Civic Engagement & Education Public Policy +8 more

Presnell Foundation Grant

H Clay and Wavie M Presnell Foundation
Private
North Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Presnell Foundation Grant supports North Carolina public and private schools, providing funding for educational programs and extracurricular activities. Additionally, it offers grants to religious institutions for building projects and ministries. The foundation prioritizes emergency funding for nonprofit agencies facing critical human needs that could disrupt services. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations, ensuring that funds significantly impact their clients and support ongoing programs.
Community Services Education - Preschool / Early Learning Education - K through 12 +5 more

NYSCA Arts Bring Change (ABC) Grants

New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA)
State/Local Government
Richmond County, New York
Up to US $2,500
The NYSCA Arts Bring Change (ABC) Grants support local cultural organizations and artists who collaborate with public schools to provide K-12 students with engaging artistic experiences. Funded by the New York State Council on the Arts, this program emphasizes art exploration and requires projects to include hands-on learning sessions. Applicants must demonstrate a partnership with schools and meet specific eligibility criteria, ensuring impactful and meaningful artistic education for students.
Education - K through 12 Art Education Arts / Culture Access & Participation +9 more

Oklahoma AmeriCorps Grants

Oklahoma AmeriCorps
State/Local Government
Oklahoma
Up to US $75,000

Oklahoma AmeriCorps

Oklahoma AmeriCorps improves lives, strengthens communities and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. We bring people together to tackle some of the state’s most pressing challenges by providing grants to Oklahoma nonprofits. These programs are located throughout the state and focus on the areas of Disaster Services, Economic Opportunity, Education, Environmental Stewardship, Healthy Futures, and Veterans & Military Families. Those who serve in the programs are known as “Members” and earn an education award for their participation. 

AmeriCorps Oklahoma Funding

Oklahoma AmeriCorps is seeking grant applicants to operate or develop AmeriCorps programs in Oklahoma. The AmeriCorps programs will enroll AmeriCorps members to address community-identified needs in one or more focus areas during their term of service: Disaster Services, Economic Opportunity, Education, Environmental Stewardship, Healthy Futures, or Veterans and Military Families.

Oklahoma AmeriCorps is the legal applicant to the federal AmeriCorps agency, and applicants applying under this notice are subgrantees of Oklahoma AmeriCorps. Applicants will initially submit their grant in the Oklahoma AmeriCorps internal application system and successful applicants will enter the final grant application in eGrants for submission to the AmeriCorps agency. Indian Tribes are eligible to apply directly to the AmeriCorps agency.

Application Types

Oklahoma AmeriCorps grants may be either an operating grant with AmeriCorps members to support the program’s operations or a planning grant to develop a future operational program. Planning grants are not awarded AmeriCorps member slots. 

Community Services Volunteerism & Philanthropy Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid +6 more

Kempner Fund: Core Grants: Resilient Island

Harris & Eliza Kempner Fund
Private
Galveston County, Texas
US $20,000 - US $75,000
The Kempner Fund's Core Grants Program focuses on enhancing Galveston's long-term success and resilience, particularly in environmental sustainability. It prioritizes funding initiatives that address climate change impacts and promote community engagement. Eligible applicants include USA-based 501(c)(3) organizations that align with the Fund's mission and values. Grant sizes range from $20,000 to $100,000, based on project scope. The Fund aims to address challenges faced by the Galveston community through targeted support and collaboration.
Environmental Education Environmental Justice & Advocacy Climate Change Resilience & Equity +3 more

Lintilhac Foundation Grant

Lintilhac Foundation
Private
Vermont
US $5,000 - US $30,000
The Lintilhac Foundation Grant aims to foster a stronger, healthier Vermont by supporting nonprofit organizations in various core areas such as clean energy, water quality, forest health, and sustainable outdoor recreation. With a legacy of over 50 years, the foundation emphasizes the importance of engaging local communities to address climate change, preserve biodiversity, and secure healthy food systems, while upholding democratic values and environmental science. This holistic approach ensures that both human and natural communities thrive together.
Energy Water Resource Management Land / Habitat Conservation +1 more

Andrew W. Mellon Fellowships

The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation
Private
Accomack County, Virginia, Albemarle County, Virginia +119 more
Unspecified amount
The Andrew W. Mellon Fellowships offer short-term research support for academic researchers and doctoral candidates focusing on Virginia history. Funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, these fellowships provide $1,000 per week for research visits lasting one to two weeks. They cover diverse topics, including political, economic, and cultural studies. Applicants are evaluated based on scholarly qualifications and proposal merit, with priority given to those whose work may lead to significant publication.
Political Science Governance & Democracy Religious / Theological Education +9 more

Pokagon Band Grants

The Pokagon Fund
Private
Cass County, Michigan, St. Joseph County, Indiana +1 more
Up to US $7,500
The Pokagon Fund, established through a 2000 agreement, supports communities near Band Trust Lands by providing strategic grants aimed at reducing poverty, enhancing education, and promoting community vitality. With over $23 million awarded, the Fund focuses on initiatives that foster local development, including substantial educational support and assistance for food-insecure families. By investing in these communities, the Fund aims to create a thriving environment for residents of Hartford, Dowagiac, and South Bend.
Early Childhood Development Academic Scholarship Programs Poverty Alleviation & Services +7 more

Backyard Giving Grants

CHS Foundation
Corporate
Dakota County, Minnesota, Ramsey County, Minnesota +1 more
Up to US $5,000
The Backyard Giving Grants, offered by CHS Foundation, support local organizations in Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington counties with funding up to $5,000. These grants aim to host community events, provide agricultural education, and ensure access to healthy food and housing. Eligible applicants include 501c3 organizations that prioritize community building and education. Notably, the program does not fund sports teams or religious groups, ensuring a focus on essential community needs and equitable support.
Food Access & Hunger Agricultural Education Equitable & Affordable Housing +2 more

Tucker County Community Foundation Grant

Tucker Community Foundation
Private
Barbour County, West Virginia, Garrett County, Maryland +6 more
Unspecified amount
The Tucker County Community Foundation Grant supports various organizations, volunteer groups, and individuals aiming to make a positive impact in the region. Annually, over 50 grants are awarded, funded by generous donors contributing to endowed and unrestricted funds. Nonprofit organizations may apply through a general grant application, with no cap on requested funds. However, requests exceeding $5,000 require detailed tracking and reporting plans to ensure accountability and transparency.
Volunteerism & Philanthropy Animal Welfare - General Art & Culture +11 more

Tucker Community Foundation Out of Cycle Grant

Tucker Community Foundation
Private
Barbour County, West Virginia, Garrett County, Maryland +6 more
Up to US $1,000
The Tucker County Grant offers funding of $500 or less to support organizations and individuals making a positive impact in the community. This grant, administered by the Tucker Community Foundation, is available to those with a valid 501(c)3 tax status or those who can demonstrate charitable intent. It aims to foster innovation and uplift communities by providing essential resources for various projects.
Volunteerism & Philanthropy Animal Welfare - General Art & Culture +11 more

Pokagon Fund Discretionary Grants

The Pokagon Fund
Private
Berrien County, Michigan
Up to US $10,000
The Pokagon Fund Discretionary Grants support projects that enhance the quality of life for residents in Harbor Country, Michigan. Originating from a partnership with the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, the fund prioritizes education, poverty reduction, and community vitality. With over $2.5 million allocated to educational initiatives, the fund addresses local challenges such as food insecurity and aims to uplift the surrounding communities through strategic grant support.
Education Poverty Alleviation & Services Community Development & Revitalization +7 more

WMU Department of Political Science: Kenneth Dahlberg Endowed Scholarship

Western Michigan University
Private
Michigan
Approximately US $1,500
The Kenneth Dahlberg Endowed Scholarship, offered by Western Michigan University's Department of Political Science, supports undergraduate and graduate students in political science and environmental studies. Established in memory of Professor Kenneth Dahlberg, this annual award of approximately $1,500 emphasizes sustainability in agricultural systems and climate policy. Eligible candidates include students from relevant departments, with preference given to those demonstrating financial need. Nomination for the scholarship can be made by faculty or through self-nomination.
Education - Higher Education Political Science Academic Scholarship Programs +6 more

Norco Community Fund (NCF)

Greater New Orleans Foundation
Private
St. Charles Parish, Louisiana
US $5,000 - US $20,000
The Norco Community Fund Grant, managed by the Greater New Orleans Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life for Norco residents through funding programs that focus on children, youth, and older adults. Priority is given to local organizations providing vital services, including mentorship for youth, social services, and support for older adults. This initiative stems from a significant donation to foster community development and well-being.
Child Welfare Services Senior Services Basic Human Needs +11 more

The New York State Pollution Prevention Institute (NYSP2I) Community Grants

Rochester Institute Of Technology
Private
New York
US $10,000 - US $30,000
The New York State Pollution Prevention Institute (NYSP2I) Community Grants support local organizations and government agencies in New York to implement pollution prevention practices. By funding projects that promote sustainability and environmental awareness, NYSP2I aims to enhance community health and economic vitality. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and local governments focused on environmental issues, fostering collaborations that can lead to broader community impacts and replicable sustainable practices.
Climate Change Resilience & Equity Sustainability Environmental Education +3 more

HOME-American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) Grant

Nebraska Department of Economic Development
State/Local Government
Adams County, Nebraska, Antelope County, Nebraska +89 more
US $1,000 - US $75,000

Nebraska Dept. of Economic Development

About Us

Since 1967, the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) has been focused on growing and diversifying the state’s economic base, bringing new dollars, new businesses, and new people into the state.

Our Mission

Provide quality leadership and services that enable Nebraska’s communities, businesses, and people to succeed in a global economy. We are here, equipped and ready, to assist you and your community in developing and capitalizing on economic development opportunities.

HOME-American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP)

Congress appropriated $5 billion in American Rescue Plan funds to be administered through the HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) to address the need for homelessness assistance and supportive services. The State of Nebraska was allocated $14 million for the Balance of State. The HOME-American Rescue Plan or “HOME-ARP” was created to perform four activities that must primarily benefit qualifying populations. The funding is available through September 2030.

Homelessness Services Equitable & Affordable Housing Supportive Housing & Shelters +2 more

LifeCare Health Care Fund Grants

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation
Private
Roseau County, Minnesota
Unspecified amount
The LifeCare Health Care Fund Grants, managed by the Northwest Minnesota Foundation, aim to support nonprofit organizations in Roseau County with financial assistance for health-related projects and services. These grants focus on initiatives like diabetes care, cancer support, and wellness programs, promoting better health outcomes in the community. Eligible nonprofit applicants can request funding from various specialized endowment funds to address pressing healthcare needs and enhance community well-being.
Diabetes Kidney Diseases Health Care Access & Delivery +2 more

HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Funding RFP for Greater Minnesota

Minnesota Department of Health
State/Local Government
Aitkin County, Minnesota, Becker County, Minnesota +74 more
US $180,000 - US $200,000
The Minnesota Department of Health is offering funding for innovative HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) programs aimed at reducing HIV transmission in rural communities. With a total of up to $600,000 available, the initiative seeks to increase HIV screenings, referrals, and prescriptions, ultimately promoting health equity and supporting the local END HIV MN plan. Organizations that can effectively implement and evaluate these programs are encouraged to apply.
HIV / AIDS Rural Health Care Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health

Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation: Fighting Hunger Grants

Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation Inc
Private
Canada, United States
Up to US $10,000
The Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation provides grants aimed at combating hunger in the U.S. and Canada, focusing on direct food assistance, food rescue, and nutrition education. Eligible organizations can receive up to $10,000 in funding, with an average grant size of $5,000. Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded over $2 million to support local food programs, ensuring communities have access to essential resources and assistance for those in need.
Food Access & Hunger Food Security Food Delivery & Distribution Services +1 more

NIHCM: Journalism Grants

The National Institute for Health Care Management
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The NIHCM Journalism Grants support projects that enhance health reporting and education, targeting critical issues such as healthcare affordability, pharmaceutical pricing, provider market dynamics, and chronic disease management. This initiative emphasizes the importance of informing policymakers and the public on how to improve healthcare quality and access in the U.S. Proposals may also explore the role of artificial intelligence in healthcare delivery. Applications are welcome from journalists, nonprofits, and universities.
Journalism Health Information Technology Health Policy & Advocacy +5 more

The Children's Trust: Community Engagement Grant

The Children's Trust
Private
Miami-Dade County, Florida
Up to US $20,000
The Children's Trust Community Engagement Grant aims to enhance existing programs that support children and families in Miami-Dade County. This funding opportunity encourages organizations to address high-need populations and promote citizen engagement and advocacy. Nonprofits not currently funded by The Children's Trust can apply for grants typically under $20,000 to develop collaborative projects that foster community involvement. The grant focuses on improving access to essential services and empowering local communities.
Family Services Youth Services Child Welfare Services +5 more

Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority Grant Program

Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
State/Local Government
Pennsylvania
Up to US $20,000,000
The Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority Grant Program offers low-interest loans and grants for improvements in drinking water, storm water, and sewage treatment facilities. Eligible entities include municipalities, authorities, and private operators. Total project assistance can reach up to $11 million, or $20 million for multi-municipality projects. Applicants must consult with a PENNVEST Regional Project Specialist prior to submission. This program aims to enhance water management and pollution prevention practices across the state.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management Environmental Contamination & Pollution

Working Lands Enterprise Initiative- Business Enhancement Grant

Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
State/Local Government
Vermont
US $10,000 - US $50,000
The Working Lands Enterprise Initiative's Business Enhancement Grant supports Vermont's agricultural, forestry, and food sectors by funding projects that enhance productivity and marketability. Eligible applicants include farms, logging businesses, and food processors that prioritize Vermont-grown resources. Funding can cover equipment, infrastructure, market development, and workforce training. This initiative aims to strengthen local economies and promote sustainable practices while fostering collaboration among various stakeholders in Vermont's working landscape.
Agricultural Economics Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Business Development +2 more

Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD): Collaborative Conservation Grant

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)
Private
Accomack County, Virginia, Adams County, Pennsylvania +157 more
Up to US $200,000

Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Grants Program delivered in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service supports efforts to improve the condition and connectivity of habitats for at risk and federally listed species.

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) is committed to operating in full compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and Executive Orders. We continuously monitor legal and regulatory developments to ensure our policies, procedures, and operations align with current federal directives. We encourage all applicants to do the same.  

The ability and extent to which NFWF is able to make awards is contingent upon receipt of funds from federal agencies and/or other funding partners. Final funding decisions will be made based on the applications received and the level and timing of funding received by NFWF.

The WILD Program Pillars are:

  • Pillar 1: Restore, conserve, and connect fish and wildlife habitat
  • Pillar 2: Improve water quality for fish, wildlife and people
  • Pillar 3: Align the power of nature to adapt to changing landscapes
  • Pillar 4: Expand access to nature and outdoor recreation for all Americans
  • Pillar 5: Build partnership capacity to collaborate and coordinate actions

The Chesapeake WILD Grants Program has three distinct tracks:

  • Collaborative Conservation
    • Grants of up to $200,000 will be awarded for projects that support and enhance the capacity of partnerships, networks, and other collaborative models working collaboratively to advance place-based, landscape-scale, and crossjurisdictional habitat restoration, conservation, and connectivity outcomes.
  • Planning and Technical Assistance
  • Implementation
Environmental Conservation Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Ichthyology (Fish) +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.