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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.

32,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

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

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32,382 Results based on applied filters

Community Foundation: Mini-grants

Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc.
Private
Chemung County, New York, Steuben County, New York
US $100 - US $1,500
The Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc. offers Mini-Grants ranging from $100 to $1,500 to support small-scale projects addressing urgent community needs. Applications must be submitted 30-90 days in advance and are prioritized based on emergent issues. Eligible applicants are 501(c)3 organizations serving Chemung and Southeastern Steuben counties. Funding is competitive and may be partial or denied based on available resources and community priorities.
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Hultquist Foundation Grant

Chautauqua Region Community Foundation
Private
Chautauqua County, New York
US $5,000 - US $300,000
The Hultquist Foundation Grant offers funding between $5,000 and $300,000, with an average award of $45,000, aimed at supporting 501(c)(3) organizations in Southern Chautauqua County. The total annual funding available is approximately $800,000. Applicants must submit a written paper application, as online applications are not accepted. First-time applicants are required to provide a copy of their IRS determination letter confirming their 501(c)(3) status.
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State Fair of Texas: Sponsorship

State Fair Of Texas
Private
Dallas County, Texas
Unspecified amount
The State Fair of Texas offers sponsorships to local nonprofit organizations in the South Dallas/Fair Park community. This initiative aims to support organizations that provide essential services and foster positive change. Eligible organizations must choose between applying for a grant or a sponsorship, as funding cannot be received for both in the same year. This commitment enhances community engagement and promotes ongoing generosity among citizens and corporations.
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SBF: Small Capacity Building Grant Program

Santa Barbara Foundation
Private
Santa Barbara County, California
Up to US $6,000
The Small Capacity Building Grant Program by the Santa Barbara Foundation aims to enhance the effectiveness of local nonprofits by providing grants of up to $6,000. These funds can strengthen organizational capacity through strategic planning, training, and small capital expenditures. The Foundation encourages applications from tax-exempt organizations and emphasizes the importance of clearly stating project needs and readiness. With a competitive selection process, this program supports initiatives that align with the mission of enhancing community outcomes.
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Bama Works Fund Grant

Charlottesville Area Community Foundation
Private
Albemarle County, Virginia, Buckingham County, Virginia +6 more
Up to US $10,000
The Bama Works Fund Grant, provided by the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation, supports local initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Charlottesville and surrounding counties. This grant is open to 501(c)(3) organizations and public schools, fostering collaboration and community engagement. The Foundation prioritizes projects that address pressing community needs while ensuring resources are equitably distributed. For more details on eligibility and application processes, visit the Bama Works Fund Policies.
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Carroll Community Fund Grant

Stark Community Foundation
Private
Carroll County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Carroll Community Fund Grant, established in 1994, supports various projects in Carroll County, Ohio. It funds tax-exempt organizations, private agencies, and government entities that address local issues. Eligible applicants include religious institutions with primarily secular programs, private schools focusing on nonreligious educational activities, and arts or recreational projects demonstrating community support. The fund aims to enhance community impact while ensuring grants are awarded based on specific eligibility criteria and local needs.
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Frederick and Ellen Fair Memorial Trust Grant

Frederick and Ellen Fair Memorial Trust
Private
Venango County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Frederick and Ellen Fair Memorial Trust Grant supports projects in Venango County, PA, focusing on year-round programming and direct services. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a social mission, address community needs, and have measurable outcomes. The trust prefers collaborations and sustainable funding practices. Notably, it does not fund general operating costs, new programming, or capital expenses. Organizations must also have a year of documented impact prior to applying and hold 501(c)(3) status.
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Edith C. Justus Fund Grant

Edith C. Justus Fund
Private
Venango County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Edith C. Justus Fund Grant supports impactful projects in Venango County, PA, focusing on year-round programming, direct services, and collaboration with other organizations. Eligible applicants must demonstrate community needs, measurable outcomes, and financial accountability. The fund prioritizes initiatives that benefit underserved populations and complement existing non-profit efforts. Organizations must have at least three years of operation and previous measurable impact to qualify for funding.
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AmericanTrucks’ Positive Payload Grant Program

AmericanTrucks
Corporate
United States
US $250
The AmericanTrucks’ Positive Payload Grant Program provides a $250 donation to non-profit charities that utilize Ford, Chevy, GMC, or Dodge trucks in their operations. This initiative aims to support organizations that rely on pickup trucks to enhance their community services. Eligible charities can apply for a grant on an ongoing basis, making it a great opportunity for those making a significant impact with their vehicles. Apply now to help your charity receive vital funding!
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The John D. Grubb and Louise G. Sumner Fund for Monroe County Grant

East Tennessee Foundation
Private
Monroe County, Tennessee
US $5,000 - US $7,500
The John D. Grubb and Louise G. Sumner Fund for Monroe County provides grants of $5,000 to $7,500 to support organizations dedicated to enhancing the educational and cultural opportunities for Monroe County residents. Established in 1998, this fund encourages innovative projects that utilize local resources effectively. Eligible organizations must operate in Monroe County and adhere to specific funding criteria, including a required 10% match for funds requested. Applications for the 2024-2026 cycle will open in 2026.
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Wilson Foundation: Equip Grant

Huey and Angelina Wilson Foundation
Private
Louisiana
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Wilson Foundation's Equip Grant, in collaboration with the Louisiana Alliance for Nonprofits, offers a comprehensive 12-month program aimed at enhancing nonprofit organizational capacity. This initiative includes weekly sessions focusing on key topics such as financial management, strategic partnerships, and effective communication. Participants will benefit from expert guidance and access to resources through Resilia, ensuring a deep and impactful learning experience designed to foster community impact and operational effectiveness.
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Merchandise Donation Requests

Carolina Elite Panthers
Private
North Carolina, South Carolina
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Carolina Elite Panthers proudly support non-profit organizations in North and South Carolina through their merchandise donation program. By providing Carolina Panthers memorabilia, the team assists these agencies in their fundraising efforts, including auctions and raffles. This initiative emphasizes the importance of community support and engagement, helping local organizations thrive while promoting the team's values and commitment to the region.
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Guilford Foundation Sponsorships

Guilford Foundation Inc.
Private
New Haven County, Connecticut
US $300 - US $2,500
The Guilford Foundation Sponsorships aim to support organizations that serve the Guilford community by providing funding for qualifying events. This initiative, in partnership with GSB, is designed to enhance visibility and facilitate fundraising efforts. Eligible recipients include 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations and governmental agencies that contribute positively to the community. By sponsoring events such as galas and road races, the foundation seeks to foster community engagement and support local initiatives.
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O'Brate Traditional College Scholarship

O'Brate Foundation
Corporate
United States
US $500 - US $5,000
The O'Brate Traditional College Scholarship supports disadvantaged youth in Kansas, aged 17-25, particularly those who have been in foster care or face unstable living conditions. This scholarship not only offers financial aid ranging from $500 to $5,000 annually but also provides mentorship, financial literacy programming, and professional development opportunities, ensuring that recipients have the resources and guidance needed to succeed in their educational pursuits.
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Elizabeth S. Black Trust Grant

Elizabeth S. Black Trust
Private
Venango County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Elizabeth S. Black Trust Grant supports impactful projects in Venango County, PA, emphasizing year-round programming, direct services, and collaboration with other organizations. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) public charities with at least three years of operation and a proven record of measurable impact. The trust prioritizes projects addressing community needs and benefiting underserved populations while ensuring long-term sustainability and diversified funding streams.
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Samuel Justus Charitable Trust Grant

Samuel Justus Charitable Trust
Private
Venango County, Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Samuel Justus Charitable Trust focuses on supporting diverse projects in Venango County, PA. With an emphasis on measurable outcomes and community needs, the trust seeks initiatives that provide direct services, promote sustainability, and benefit underserved populations. Eligible organizations must demonstrate effective financial accountability and collaboration with others. Applications require a proven track record of at least one year of measurable impact. This trust aims to foster long-term community improvements through well-planned programs.
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Grants from Pittsburgh & Western PA Trusts via PNC Bank

Pittsburgh / Western PA Trusts via PNC Bank
Association/Society
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Armstrong County, Pennsylvania +24 more
Unspecified amount
The Pittsburgh and Western PA Trusts, managed through PNC Bank, support diverse projects that enhance community well-being. They prioritize initiatives that provide direct services, address community needs, and benefit underserved populations. Eligible organizations must hold 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate a commitment to measurable outcomes and financial accountability. Funding is not available for general operating costs or for-profit entities. Interested applicants are encouraged to inquire via email for further details.
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William R. and Esther Richmond Foundation Grant

William R. and Esther Richmond Foundation
Private
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania +1 more
Unspecified amount
The William R. and Esther Richmond Foundation Grant supports impactful projects in Cumberland, Dauphin, and Lancaster Counties. It prioritizes organizations with 501(c)(3) status that demonstrate measurable outcomes and sustainability. Projects must address community needs, provide direct services, and collaborate with other entities. Ineligible requests include general operating costs and new programming. This foundation seeks to enhance the quality of life for underserved populations while ensuring effective financial accountability.
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Herkimer County Grant

The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties
Private
Herkimer County, New York
Up to US $15,000
The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties invites nonprofit organizations in Herkimer County to apply for the Herkimer County Grant Round, offering up to $15,000 for impactful projects. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, government entities, and educational institutions addressing non-religious needs. Projects must commence no earlier than December 2025 and demonstrate measurable outcomes. Only one application per organization will be accepted for each funding cycle.
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River Cats Ticket Donation

Sacramento River Cats
Corporate
Sacramento County, California
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Sacramento River Cats provide an opportunity for non-profit organizations to request ticket donations for fundraising events. Eligible organizations must be local, 501(c)(3) certified, and submit requests at least six weeks prior to their event. Each organization is limited to one donation per calendar year, ensuring fair support for various causes. This initiative reflects the River Cats' commitment to community engagement and assistance in achieving fundraising goals.
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Walter and Caroline Watson Foundation Grant

Walter and Caroline Watson Foundation
Private
Mahoning County, Ohio, Trumbull County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Walter and Caroline Watson Foundation Grant supports impactful projects in Mahoning and Trumbull counties. Organizations with a minimum of three years of operation and a demonstrated community need are eligible to apply. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that provide direct services, foster collaboration, and have measurable outcomes. However, it does not fund general operating costs, for-profit organizations, or projects lacking prior evaluation reports. This grant aims to enhance community support and sustainability.
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Senator Maurice and Florence Lipscher Charitable Fund Grant

Senator Maurice and Florence Lipscher Charitable Fund
Private
Mahoning County, Ohio, Trumbull County, Ohio
Unspecified amount
The Senator Maurice and Florence Lipscher Charitable Fund supports impactful projects in Mahoning and Trumbull counties. Grants are awarded to organizations providing year-round programming, direct services, and addressing community needs. Eligible projects must demonstrate measurable outcomes and sustainability, involving collaboration with other entities. Ineligible applications include those for general operating costs, pilot programs, and multi-year commitments. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and at least three years of operation to apply.
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Valley Sponsorships

Valley Community Foundation
Private
Fairfield County, Connecticut, New Haven County, Connecticut
Up to US $2,500

About Us

Our mission is to inspire philanthropic growth, provide and foster leadership, engage donors, and strengthen the Valley community both now and for future generations.

Our Vision:

A vibrant inclusive Valley that is thriving, collaborative, generous, with a shared sense of community and opportunity.

Mission Statement on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion:

To create a more inclusive and equitable Valley where everyone has the opportunity to reach their potential.

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Camden New Jersey Community Grants

Camden New Jersey Community Trusts
Association/Society
Camden County, New Jersey
Unspecified amount
The Camden New Jersey Community Trust offers a unique opportunity for local organizations to secure funding through a single application for over 100 trusts. This initiative supports diverse projects that address community needs, enhance social impact, and ensure sustainability. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a proven track record of at least three years and present measurable outcomes from prior initiatives. Collaborative efforts are encouraged to maximize the benefit to underserved populations within the Camden community.
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Mets Donation Requests

Amazin Mets Foundation Inc
Private
Bergen County, New Jersey, Bronx County, New York +33 more
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The New York Mets Donation Requests support non-profit organizations in the tri-state area by providing ticket donations. Requests must be submitted three weeks before the event, and only one request is allowed per organization within a year. Donations are strictly for charitable purposes and cannot be used for personal items or online auctions. The program does not accommodate requests from September 1 to February 28/29. This initiative aims to assist local fundraising efforts while ensuring fair access to resources.
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Everett Kneece Scholarship

Foundation for Rural Service
Private
United States
US $7,000
The Everett Kneece Scholarship, offered by the Foundation for Rural Service, provides a $7,000 award annually to a graduating high school senior who shows commitment to returning to a rural community. To be eligible, applicants must be U.S. citizens sponsored by an NTCA member and express interest in rural community service. This scholarship honors Everett Kneece's legacy of philanthropy and dedication to enhancing rural life through education.
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FRS Scholarships

Foundation for Rural Service
Private
United States
US $1,000 - US $9,000
The FRS Scholarships, provided by the Foundation for Rural Service, support high school seniors from rural areas in their pursuit of higher education. Sponsored by NTCA members, these one-time scholarships aim to enhance educational opportunities and encourage graduates to return to their communities. With a mission to improve rural life through educational initiatives, this program plays a vital role in fostering the next generation of leaders in rural America.
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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.