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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

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$9.00B total
$6K median

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32,423 Results based on applied filters

Durham Community Foundation - Community Fund(s) Grantstream

Durham Community Foundation
Private
Canada
Unspecified amount
The Durham Community Foundation offers Community Fund(s) grants aimed at fostering a vibrant community through collaborative efforts and innovative partnerships. Grants support projects that enhance arts, culture, education, health, and social development while prioritizing organizations committed to Durham Region's citizens. Eligible applicants must have charitable status, be operational for at least a year, and demonstrate fiscal responsibility. The Foundation encourages projects that benefit the community directly, excluding political campaigns and funding for individuals.
Art & Culture Health & Medicine Education +7 more

Catherine Vincent Deardorf Charitable Foundation Grant

Catherine Vincent Deardorf Charitable Foundation
Private
Webster County, Iowa
Unspecified amount
The Catherine Vincent Deardorf Charitable Foundation Grant supports 501(c)3 organizations in Webster County, Iowa, emphasizing arts, education, and nature. Established in 1993, the foundation has allocated over $9 million to local projects. The grant prioritizes non-recurring initiatives that foster creativity and community collaboration. Applications are accepted six times a year, needing submission before the project's start. The foundation aims to enrich the community through innovative programs that benefit a diverse range of residents.
Library Services Music Education Writing & Literature +7 more

The Louis Padovano Grants

The Lotos Foundation
Private
Bronx County, New York, Kings County, New York +3 more
Approximately US $8,000
The Louis Padovano Grants, awarded by The Lotos Foundation, support not-for-profit organizations in New York City that provide free arts and science programs to middle and high school students. These grants aim to nurture talented individuals across diverse fields such as dance, film, music, theater, visual arts, writing, and the sciences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and have not received funding for the past three consecutive years.
Youth Involvement in the Arts Chemistry Physics +8 more

Brinson Foundation Grant

The Brinson Foundation
Private
Cook County, Illinois, DuPage County, Illinois +6 more
Unspecified amount
The Brinson Foundation Grant supports organizations in the greater Chicago area and focuses on education and scientific research. It encourages personal initiative and individual freedoms, aiming to enhance self-worth and dignity. The Foundation prioritizes programs that provide quality education and basic scientific research, particularly in underfunded areas. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities, while inquiries from those that discriminate or focus on religious activities are not accepted.
Career / College Preparation Medical Education & Professional Training Civil Rights +5 more

Alameda County ARTSFUND Grant Program

Alameda County Arts Commission
State/Local Government
Alameda County, California
Up to US $2,500
The Alameda County ARTSFUND Grant Program, managed by the Alameda County Arts Commission, aims to support nonprofit arts and cultural organizations serving the community. Grants ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 are available for various artistic endeavors, including visual arts, dance, and theater. This initiative fosters creativity and cultural expression, reinforcing the belief that arts are vital to community success. The program is funded through county contributions and community donations.
Art & Culture Dance Writing & Literature +6 more

Environmental and Water Resource Institute (EWRI) Scholarships- Florida Section

American Society Of Civil Engineers Inc
Private
Florida
US $9,000
The Environmental and Water Resource Institute (EWRI) Scholarships, offered by the American Society of Civil Engineers, aim to support civil and environmental engineering students. Annually, a total of $8,000 in scholarships is awarded to four top applicants, based on academic performance and commitment to water resources. This initiative not only provides financial assistance but also encourages student involvement in ASCE activities, fostering a strong community of future engineers dedicated to public health and safety.
Environmental Engineering Education - Higher Education Civil Engineering +2 more

Lockhart Vaughan Foundation: New Applicant

Lockhart Vaughan Foundation Inc
Private
Baltimore City, Maryland, Baltimore County, Maryland
Unspecified amount
The Lockhart Vaughan Foundation, established in 1990, provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in Baltimore, focusing on education, environment, and community development. New applicants must submit a Letter of Intent to outline their goals. The Foundation emphasizes childhood literacy, environmental improvements, and vibrant neighborhoods while prioritizing programs that foster high expectations and prevent summer learning loss. Eligible organizations should align with these strategic goals to secure funding.
Education - Preschool / Early Learning Early Childhood Development After School / Summer Educational Programs +7 more

UniBank Community Giving

Unibank Charitable Foundation Inc
Private
Middlesex County, Massachusetts, Worcester County, Massachusetts
Unspecified amount
UniBank Community Giving is dedicated to enhancing local communities through charitable contributions. With over $750,000 allocated annually, it supports initiatives in youth development, community development, affordable housing, and environmental concerns. Established in 2018 with a foundation of $2 million, UniBank aims to fortify its commitment to community service. Organizations with proven success and collaboration efforts are encouraged to apply, ensuring timely funding decisions for impactful projects.
Environmental Conservation Community Development & Revitalization Equitable & Affordable Housing +4 more

Region Grants Open Grant Round: Hunger Relief

Land O'lakes Foundation
Private
Adams County, Pennsylvania, Bedford County, Pennsylvania +37 more
US $1,000 - US $20,000
The Region Grants Open Grant Round: Hunger Relief, sponsored by the Land O'Lakes Foundation, aims to combat food insecurity in rural communities. Grants between $1,000 and $20,000 are available for organizations supporting food banks, meal programs, and community gardens. With a total investment of $500,000 annually, this initiative prioritizes nonprofits with 501c3 status serving specific regions in the East and West. The program seeks to enhance the vibrancy of member-owner communities while fostering educational and community vitality.
Food Access & Hunger Horticulture & Gardening Food Delivery & Distribution Services +2 more

Mitsui U.S.A. Foundation Grant

Mitsui U.S.A. Foundation
Private
Cook County, Illinois, Davidson County, Tennessee +7 more
Unspecified amount
The Mitsui U.S.A. Foundation, established in 1987, focuses on supporting educational and community welfare initiatives across the U.S. It prioritizes qualified 501(c)(3) organizations that enhance the quality of life, particularly through international education and U.S.-Japan exchanges. With over 50 active programs, the Foundation promotes good corporate citizenship and encourages employee volunteerism while avoiding support for individuals, political groups, or non-monetary requests. Collaboration with local Mitsui offices is preferred.
Disability Care & Services Child Welfare Services Youth Services +7 more

Impact100 Nashville: Spark Grant Category

Impact100 Nashville
Private
Cheatham County, Tennessee, Davidson County, Tennessee +8 more
Unspecified amount
Impact100 Nashville's Spark Grant Category seeks to empower non-profit organizations addressing critical issues in Middle Tennessee, such as homelessness and poverty. By offering $35,000 grants, the program aims to fund innovative, self-sustaining projects that create lasting social change. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a sustainable plan and a track record of financial stability. This initiative encourages philanthropic collaboration among women to drive community transformation and elevate under-served populations.
Basic Human Needs Homelessness Services Food Access & Hunger +6 more

The Arras Foundation: Healthy Community Grant

The Arras Foundation
Private
Chester County, South Carolina, Lancaster County, South Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Arras Foundation's Healthy Community Grant supports community nonprofits in Fort Lawn, Great Falls, and Lancaster County. The grant aims to promote healthier communities through collaboration and innovative solutions that leverage community assets. Interested applicants must complete pre-proposal steps, including workshops and exploratory meetings, before submitting their Letter of Inquiry. The Foundation invites eligible organizations to join their mission of fostering positive change and enhancing community well-being.
Economic Services & Development Health Care Access & Delivery Human & Social Services +4 more

Coles County Peace and Justice Fund Grant Program

Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation
Private
Coles County, Illinois
US $1,000 - US $7,000
The Coles County Peace and Justice Fund Grant Program, supported by the Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation, aims to enhance social justice and cross-cultural understanding. It provides funding for projects that directly benefit Coles County residents, particularly those that engage youth. Eligible initiatives include public programs, diversity training, and collaborative efforts that address root causes of social issues. Preference is given to projects that foster community engagement and promote diversity in Coles County.
Cross-Cultural Understanding & Exchanges Social Justice / Human Rights Interfaith Cooperation / Religious Freedom +4 more

Woodberry Poetry Room Creative Fellowship

Harvard Public Library Trust Inc
Private
Massachusetts, New York
US $5,000
The Woodberry Poetry Room Creative Fellowship invites diverse creators, including poets, writers, and scholars, to engage with its extensive collections. Funded by the T.S. Eliot Foundation, recipients receive a $5,000 stipend and a one-week residency at the T.S. Eliot House in Gloucester, Massachusetts. The fellowship promotes inclusivity and welcomes applications from individuals of all nationalities, fostering creative exploration and collaboration in a supportive environment.
Poetry Artist Residencies Writing & Literature +6 more

Mitchell Foundation Grants

Cynthia & George Mitchell Foundation
Private
Texas
Unspecified amount
The Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation supports impactful projects in Texas, focusing on environmental protection, social equity, and economic vitality. Their strategic grantmaking emphasizes clean energy, land conservation, subsurface energy, sustainability education, and water resources. The foundation seeks proposals that align with their mission and demonstrate a clear benefit to Texas. Projects funded must have a robust communication strategy to share outcomes effectively, ensuring lasting impacts on the communities served.
Sustainability Energy Renewable/Sustainable Energy +3 more

Art & Culture Grant

Community Foundation of Broward
Private
Broward County, Florida
Unspecified amount
The Art & Culture Grant aims to enhance community well-being through the arts, highlighting their importance in fostering connection and creativity. The Community Foundation of Broward supports nonprofits in expanding access to diverse cultural programs that engage all residents, including marginalized groups. The initiative seeks to revitalize the arts sector, which has faced economic challenges, by funding projects that promote healing, dialogue, and the celebration of cultural heritage across Broward County.
Art & Culture Community Culture & Heritage Art Education +7 more

Yocha Dehe Community Fund

Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation
State/Local Government
United States
Unspecified amount
The Yocha Dehe Community Fund, established by the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation in 2000, supports initiatives that strengthen communities throughout Yolo County and beyond. With nearly $40 million in grants, the Fund prioritizes projects in health, education, Native arts, and environmental protection. The Tribe's commitment involves active participation in the grant process, ensuring impactful partnerships with various organizations. New applicants must register on the grant portal and submit a letter of inquiry to be considered for funding.
Youth Services Native American Services Native American Culture & Heritage +5 more

Story County Community Foundation: Major Grant

Story County Community Foundation
Corporate
Story County, Iowa
US $10,000 - US $25,000
The Story County Community Foundation (SCCF) offers a Major Grant aimed at enhancing community life in Story County. This initiative seeks projects that address significant community needs, promote innovative solutions, and foster collaboration among residents. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status. Grants are intended to support diverse areas such as education, health, and cultural initiatives, ensuring sustainable impact and community involvement in planning and execution.
Art & Culture Humanities & Social Science Education +11 more

Van Cott Family Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains (CFEM)
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are accepted from mid-November until mid-March. Scholarship award recipients will be announced at the high school awards ceremony. 

Van Cott Family Memorial Scholarship

Established in memory of Kermit Van Cott and his son Forrest to provide tuition assistance to a graduating Senior from one of the High Schools in Susquehanna County, with priority given to Blue Ridge, who will major in Landscape Architecture, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Horticulture, Botany, Forestry, or Agriculture and who will matriculate at college or a post-secondary degree program.

Education - Higher Education Environmental Education Horticulture & Gardening +4 more

Lockhart Vaughan Foundation: Prior Grantees

Lockhart Vaughan Foundation Inc
Private
Baltimore City, Maryland, Baltimore County, Maryland
Unspecified amount
The Lockhart Vaughan Foundation focuses on supporting 501(c)(3) organizations in Baltimore, Maryland, with a commitment to education, environment, and community development. Established in 1990, the foundation aims to enhance public education access, promote environmental sustainability, and foster vibrant neighborhoods through strategic grant-making. Applicants must submit a contact information form before applying, with an upcoming deadline for summer learning grants on February 20. The foundation prioritizes impactful initiatives that align with its goals.
Environment Education - Preschool / Early Learning Education - K through 12 +7 more

Adams County Community Foundation Grants

Adams County Community Foundation
Private
Adams County, Pennsylvania
Up to US $30,000
The Adams County Community Foundation Grants aim to support nonprofits serving vulnerable residents in Adams County through capacity building, program, and collaboration grants. Each grant type has specific funding limits, with a focus on affordable housing initiatives. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and adhere to nondiscrimination policies. The foundation provides special consideration to those addressing housing issues, ensuring impactful community development and self-sufficiency for low-income residents.
Community Services Poverty Alleviation & Services Equitable & Affordable Housing +3 more

QC River Connections Grant

Quad Cities Community Foundation
Private
Rock Island County, Illinois, Scott County, Iowa
Up to US $20,000
The QC River Connections Grant, offered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, supports projects addressing environmental challenges faced by the Mississippi River in the Quad Cities. It promotes inclusive community engagement and nature-based solutions to enhance relationships between communities and the river. Eligible projects include restoration, education, and access initiatives. The grant aims to uplift underrepresented communities impacted by environmental issues, ensuring equitable participation in environmental stewardship.
Sustainability Environmental Education Environmental Conservation +1 more

SU-CASA Grant

New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA)
State/Local Government
Richmond County, New York
US $8,000
The SU-CASA Grant is a 3-month program placing local artists in Staten Island senior centers to engage older adults through creative workshops. Each residency concludes with a public event showcasing the participants' work. Artists receive a stipend of $6,000 and a $2,000 budget for materials. Funded by the NYC Council, this initiative fosters collaboration among various city departments and supports artists passionate about teaching and working with seniors.
Artist Residencies Senior Services Arts / Culture Access & Participation +8 more

Endowment Matching Support Grants

Kirkpatrick Family Fund
Private
Oklahoma
Approximately US $15,000
The Kirkpatrick Family Fund offers matching support grants to nonprofit organizations in central Oklahoma, focusing on endowment funds. Organizations can apply for grants to match their fundraising efforts, with varying amounts based on the type of endowment established. The fund emphasizes the importance of building endowments to ensure financial sustainability and supports initiatives across various areas including arts, education, and community enhancement. Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) public charities that align with the fund's interests.
Art & Culture Education Youth Services +11 more

Walter J. Miller Trust Grant

Walter J. Miller Trust
Private
Pennsylvania
US $2,000 - US $15,000
The Walter J. Miller Trust Grant provides financial support to numerous charitable organizations in Pennsylvania. Established to honor the legacy of Mr. Miller and his sisters, the Trust emphasizes funding for education, health services, arts, and social welfare. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) compliant, with a focus on projects that address community needs not met by others. The Trust aims to ensure lasting impact through its generous contributions, fostering community development and support.
Art & Culture Health & Medicine Environmental Conservation +9 more

Local Cultural Council Grant Program

Mass Cultural Council
State/Local Government
Massachusetts
More than US $250
The Local Cultural Council Grant Program, funded by the Mass Cultural Council, supports arts, humanities, and science projects through local councils across Massachusetts. With 329 councils serving all 351 communities, this program emphasizes local decision-making to address community needs. Grants typically range from $250 to $750, with competitive applications due to limited funds. Councils can choose between reimbursement and direct grants, ensuring funds effectively support local initiatives.
Museums & Cultural Institutions History Philosophy +8 more

Centerville-Washington Foundation- Community Impact Grant

Centerville‑Washington Foundation
Private
Montgomery County, Ohio
Up to US $10,000
The Centerville-Washington Foundation offers the Community Impact Grant to support projects that enhance community engagement and resource efficiency. Grants are available for arts, education, health, and social services, among others. They prioritize initiatives that demonstrate innovative solutions to community challenges, promote volunteerism, and strengthen local nonprofits. Important deadlines include March 1st for Community Support Grants and September 1st for the $10,000 Impact Grant. This funding fosters diversity, equity, and inclusion within the community.
Environment Environmental Conservation Civic Affairs +10 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 $3.34B 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

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Food Access & Hunger

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness

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
29.7%
Q2
24.7%
Q3
23.5%
Q4
22.1%

Typical Funding Amounts

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

Grants are most commonly $32,500.

$0 $0 Min.
$32,500 $32.5 K Median
$633,837 $633.8 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 29.7% 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 $32,500, while the average grant awarded is $633,837. 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.