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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

$9.00B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

33,000+ grants
$9.00B total
$6K median

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32,545 Results based on applied filters

Latin American Student Field Research Award

American Society of Mammalogists
Association/Society
Central America, Cuba +7 more
US $2,250
The Latin American Student Field Research Award, offered by the American Society of Mammalogists, supports graduate students conducting field research in Latin America. Eligible applicants must be citizens of Latin American countries and enrolled in a graduate program. Research areas include ecology, conservation, and wildlife biology. This award emphasizes the importance of field-oriented investigations, promoting a diverse range of studies aimed at enhancing our understanding of mammalian species and their habitats in the region.
Mammalogy Mammalian Conservation

The Roanoke Women's Foundation Grants

The Roanoke Women's Foundation
Private
Botetourt County, Virginia, Craig County, Virginia +5 more
More than US $30,000
The Roanoke Women's Foundation offers impactful grants starting at $30,000 across various sectors such as Arts & Culture, Education, Environment, and Health & Human Services. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, based in or serving the defined Roanoke area, and have a history of at least five years without receiving a grant. The selection process includes proposal reviews and a membership vote in autumn, ensuring community-driven funding.
Art & Culture Health & Medicine Human & Social Services +5 more

Memorial Bear Fund Grant

Wyoming Community Foundation
Private
Wyoming
Unspecified amount
The Memorial Bear Fund Grant honors the legacy of biologists and a pilot who lost their lives during wildlife research in Wyoming. Administered by the Wyoming Community Foundation, it supports bear research, habitat protection, and education for all bear species. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving Wyoming, while ineligible applications include those with outstanding reports or requests for lobbying. The grant prioritizes impactful, well-prepared projects that ensure lasting benefits.
Mammalogy Mammalian Conservation

Sea Turtle Grants: Emergency Fund

Sea Turtle Conservancy
Private
Florida
Unspecified amount
The Sea Turtle Grants: Emergency Fund, supported by Florida's Sea Turtle Specialty License Plate revenues, provides vital funding for sea turtle conservation and research. This program allocates funds to address emergency situations affecting Florida's sea turtles, including mass strandings and illnesses. Eligible applicants include local governments, non-profits, and educational institutions in Florida. The Sea Turtle Conservancy administers the program, ensuring effective support for marine turtle protection efforts.
Herpetology Herpetological Conservation

SAF National Awards Program: Outstanding Forestry Journalism Award

Society of American Foresters (SAF)
Association/Society
United States
More than US $500
The Outstanding Forestry Journalism Award recognizes exceptional journalistic work that enhances public understanding of forestry and natural resources. Open to all journalists, it encourages submissions in various formats, including articles, documentaries, and ongoing coverage. The award offers a $500 honorarium, complimentary SAF convention registration, and up to $500 for travel expenses. This initiative highlights the crucial role of effective communication in promoting sustainable forestry practices and educating the public about environmental issues.
Forestry Journalism

Reinberger Foundation: Human Service Grants

Reinberger Foundation
Private
Cuyahoga County, Ohio, Delaware County, Ohio +7 more
Unspecified amount
The Reinberger Foundation offers Human Service Grants to support organizations helping underserved individuals achieve self-sufficiency and community enrichment. Priority is given to those who have received funding in the past five years. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and serve within Ohio, particularly in Cuyahoga and Franklin counties. The foundation focuses on critical areas such as housing stability, food insecurity, and family violence.
Domestic Violence Supportive Housing & Shelters Food Security

James G. Cooper Early Professional Award

American Ornithological Society
Association/Society
United States
US $1,500
The James G. Cooper Early Professional Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, celebrates the achievements of early-career ornithologists. Awardees receive a certificate, a $1,500 honorarium, and free registration to the annual meeting, where they can present their research. Candidates are evaluated based on their CV and a mini-paper. This award aims to promote ethical research practices and leadership in ornithology, fostering a diverse and dynamic community of scientists dedicated to bird conservation.
Ornithology Ornithological Conservation

Sustain Our Great Lakes Program

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)
Private
Adams County, Indiana, Adams County, Wisconsin +126 more
US $200,000 - US $1,000,000

About National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) works with partners to foster sustainable and impactful conservation solutions so that people and nature thrive together. Chartered by Congress in 1984, NFWF has grown to become the nation’s largest conservation foundation. Since its founding, NFWF has funded more than 23,900 projects that have generated a total conservation impact of more than $12 billion.About Sustain Our Great Lakes Program

Sustain Our Great Lakes is a public–private partnership designed to sustain, restore and protect fish, wildlife and habitat in the basin by leveraging funding, building conservation capacity, and focusing partners and resources toward key ecological issues. The program achieves this mission, in part, by awarding grants for on-the-ground habitat restoration and enhancement.Funding priorities for this program include:

  • Habitat Restoration to Conserve Species and Improve Water Quality
  • Expand and Maintain Nature-Based Solutions in Great Lakes Communities
  • Invasive Species Control to Protect and Enhance Restored Habitat
  • Activate Restored Habitats and Natural Areas

Fish Conservation Fisheries Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration +1 more

Harry M. & Edel Y. Ayers Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama
Private
Alabama
Unspecified amount
The Harry M. and Edel Y. Ayers Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama, honors the founders of Consolidated Publishing Company, Inc. This scholarship supports individuals pursuing associate or bachelor's degrees, as well as approved workforce training programs in Alabama. It is a one-time award available for part-time and full-time students at accredited institutions in the U.S., covering tuition, housing, supplies, and fees based on available assets.
Education - Higher Education Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Academic Scholarship Programs +3 more

406-46-4033 Climate Pollution Reduction Grant Implementation Grant

Illinois Department of Agriculture
State/Local Government
Illinois
Unspecified amount

Illinois Department of Agriculture

Mission Statement: The Illinois Department of Agriculture will be an advocate for Illinois' agricultural industry and provide the necessary regulatory functions to benefit consumers, agricultural industry, and our natural resources. The agency will strive to promote agri-business in Illinois and throughout the world.​

Climate Pollution Reduction Grant Implementation Grant

Description 

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) is implementing the agricultural portion of the inaugural Climate Pollution Reduction Grant (CPRG) Program, known as Climate Smart Agriculture Program. The intent of the program is to promote the implementation of no-till and strip-till practices through the Partners for Conservation (PFC) Program and the State of Illinois Priority Climate Action Plan.

Subrecipient applications will be selected on a first come, first served basis, per county, such that the first application per county will be prioritized up to a 3,000-acre cap per application, pending qualification and verification. If there are remaining program funds after the first application per county is verified, the second application per county will be prioritized up to a 3,000-acre cap per application, and so on.

Carbon / Greenhouse Gas Reduction Sustainable Agriculture & Agroecology

SAF National Awards Program: W. D. Hagenstein Communicator Award

Society of American Foresters (SAF)
Association/Society
United States
More than US $500
The W. D. Hagenstein Communicator Award honors an SAF member for their outstanding communication efforts in forestry. Recognizing innovative initiatives that enhance public understanding of forestry and natural resources, this award is presented at the SAF National Convention. It includes a $500 honorarium and up to $500 for travel expenses. Nominees must be SAF members and should not have received the Technology Transfer Award in the past five years. This award emphasizes the importance of effective communication in advancing forestry.
Forestry Science Communications

Training Program in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities

The Childrens Hospital Of Philadelphia
Private
Pennsylvania
Unspecified amount
The Training Program in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute offers advanced training for individuals pursuing careers in neuroscience and neurodevelopmental research. Established in 1998, it emphasizes the understanding of disabilities linked to chromosomal defects and trauma. Trainees engage in hands-on research, develop critical skills, and collaborate with esteemed scientists, aiming to become leaders in their field. The program actively encourages applications from underrepresented minority groups to foster diversity in scientific research.
Neuroscience Neurological Diseases & Disorders Learning Disabilities +3 more

NIHCM: Research Grants

The National Institute for Health Care Management
Private
United States
US $50,000 - US $60,000
The NIHCM Foundation is seeking innovative research proposals that address critical issues in U.S. health care, particularly focusing on drug pricing, provider consolidation, health care delivery, chronic disease management, and the role of artificial intelligence. Projects should aim to improve affordability and quality of care. We welcome submissions from a variety of researchers and organizations, with a preference for studies that can be completed within one year.
Health Policy & Advocacy Health Care Access & Delivery Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health +4 more

North Coast Seafood Extension Fellowship

California Sea Grant
State/Local Government
Del Norte County, California, Humboldt County, California +1 more
More than US $130,233
The North Coast Seafood Extension Fellowship, funded by California Sea Grant, aims to enhance seafood marketing and production opportunities in California's rural North Coast region. The fellowship will support collaboration among local partners to improve seafood availability and sales, strengthen marketing efforts, and develop infrastructure. The fellow will engage in training and educational initiatives for commercial fishers, facilitating connections between them and regional markets, all while promoting sustainable practices and community resilience.
Fisheries Food Security Aquaculture

Habitat Protection and Restoration Grants

Great Lakes Fisheries Trust
Private
Adams County, Wisconsin, Brown County, Wisconsin +40 more
Up to US $750,000
The Habitat Protection and Restoration grant by the Great Lakes Fisheries Trust aims to fund projects that protect and restore vital fish habitats in the Great Lakes region. Priorities include enhancing fish passage, supporting sustainable reproduction, and utilizing decision-support tools for project identification. Eligible applicants include non-profits and governmental organizations, focusing on projects within the Lake Michigan basin. This grant emphasizes community support and long-term management, ensuring impactful conservation efforts.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Land / Habitat Conservation Fisheries

Reinberger Foundation: Education Grants

Reinberger Foundation
Private
Cuyahoga County, Ohio, Franklin County, Ohio +5 more
Unspecified amount
The Reinberger Foundation offers education grants to support underserved individuals in Northeast and Central Ohio. Priority is given to organizations with recent funding history. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits serving low-income populations, including schools, adult education, and workforce development programs. The foundation focuses on Cuyahoga and Franklin Counties, with specific considerations for grant requests. Organizations should discuss their proposals with the foundation before submitting applications.
Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Adult Education Education - K through 12 +2 more

Montana DNRC: Hazardous Fuels Reduction Grant Program

Montana Department of Natural Resources & Conservation
State/Local Government
Montana
Up to US $100,000
The Montana DNRC Hazardous Fuels Reduction Grant Program aims to mitigate the risk of wildland fires and protect communities in high-priority areas adjacent to National Forest System lands. Funded by USFS resources, this program supports projects that reduce hazardous fuels through various methods like thinning and burning. Eligible applicants include non-profits, local governments, and tribal entities. Projects must align geographically and be initiated within three years of planned USFS treatments, ensuring community safety and environmental stewardship.
Waste Management Firefighting & Fire Prevention Fire Ecology

RFP: Using Real-World Data to Address Prevalence and Treatment of Cardiovascular, Kidney and Metabolic Disease in Cancer Patients and Survivors

American Heart Association
Association/Society
United States
US $150,000
The American Heart Association is seeking proposals to study the prevalence and treatment of cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic diseases among cancer patients and survivors. Given the over 16.7 million cancer survivors in the U.S., this research aims to highlight critical health disparities, identify treatment modalities, and explore shared risk factors. Applications focusing on underrepresented populations and utilizing real-world data sources are especially encouraged, aiming to improve health outcomes in this vulnerable group.
Cancer / Oncology Cardiovascular Diseases & Systems Kidney Diseases +1 more

Friends of the Island Fox Research Grant

Friends of the Island Fox
Private
Los Angeles County, California, Santa Barbara County, California +1 more
Up to US $7,000
The Friends of the Island Fox Research Grant offers $7,000 to support research aimed at enhancing scientific understanding of island fox biology, health, behavior, and ecology. This funding is part of the Friends of the Island Fox's mission to ensure the long-term survival of this unique species. Applications are welcomed from researchers dedicated to advancing knowledge in these critical areas.
Mammalian Conservation Mammalogy

Howard K. Gloyd-Edward Harrison Taylor Scholarship

Kansas Herpetological Society
Association/Society
Kansas
US $300
The Howard K. Gloyd-Edward H. Taylor Scholarship, awarded by the Kansas Herpetological Society, supports KHS members enrolled in accredited educational institutions. This $300 scholarship recognizes students' potential contributions to herpetology, encouraging self-nominations and requiring academic references. Eligible applicants range from high school to university students. Nominations must detail qualifications and future plans in herpetology and are due by September 25, with winners announced at the KHS annual meeting in November.
Herpetology Herpetological Conservation

Jim and Margie Fegley Orchestral String Scholarship Fund

Berks County Community Foundation
Private
Pennsylvania, United States
Unspecified amount
The Jim and Margie Fegley Orchestral String Scholarship Fund, established in 2013 by Marjorie Fegley, honors her late husband, James E. Fegley. This fund supports Berks County residents pursuing music education, particularly in orchestral strings. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and have participated in music programs. The Berks County Community Foundation manages this fund, which contributes significantly to the local arts and education landscape, fostering musical talent in the community.
Education - Higher Education Symphony / Orchestra Academic Scholarship Programs

Robert and Joan Dircks Foundation Grant Program

Robert & Joan Dircks Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000 - US $15,000
The Robert and Joan Dircks Foundation Grant Program supports non-profit organizations in New Jersey that provide opportunities for disadvantaged individuals. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, the foundation focuses on innovative programs that solve critical issues rather than operational needs. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The foundation does not fund political activities, cultural projects, or operating budgets, ensuring resources directly benefit those in need.
Children With Disabilities Poverty Alleviation & Services Disability Care & Services +3 more

Donna J. Heinrich Environmental Education Grant

Gopher Tortoise Council
Private
Allendale County, South Carolina, Appling County, Georgia +117 more
US $2,500 - US $5,000
The Donna J. Heinrich Environmental Education Grant, established by the Gopher Tortoise Council, aims to support educators and organizations in creating projects focused on the gopher tortoise and its habitat. This grant honors Donna June Heinrich, a dedicated environmental educator committed to wildlife conservation. By fostering educational initiatives, the grant seeks to enhance public understanding and appreciation of the gopher tortoise and promote its conservation across the southeastern United States.
Herpetology Herpetological Conservation

Elliott Coues Award

American Ornithological Society
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The Elliott Coues Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, honors exceptional contributions to ornithological research without geographic or disciplinary restrictions. This prestigious award includes a medal and an honorarium and is named after Elliott Coues, a pioneering ornithologist. The award emphasizes the importance of diverse nominations and aims to recognize individuals who have made significant impacts in the field of ornithology, thus fostering a vibrant ornithological community.
Ornithology Ornithological Conservation

Operating Support Grant (Annual and Biennial)

Alaska State Council on the Arts
State/Local Government
Alaska
Up to US $21,000
The Operating Support Grant from the Alaska State Council on the Arts offers funding for nonprofit arts organizations in Alaska. This grant supports ongoing artistic and administrative functions, including salaries, travel, and production costs. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) entities with a minimum annual budget of $50,000 and demonstrate a commitment to arts programming. Grant applications are limited to one per fiscal year, promoting sustainability and cultural heritage within the Alaska arts community.
Dance Visual Arts Writing & Literature +4 more

Lifetime Contribution to the AAAAI and Allergy / Immunology Specialty Award

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI)
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount
The Lifetime Contribution to the AAAAI and Allergy/Immunology Specialty Award honors individuals who have made significant and enduring contributions to the AAAAI and the allergy/immunology field. Awardees are recognized for exemplary service, leadership in professional organizations, impactful research, and mentorship of trainees. This prestigious accolade underscores the recipient's dedication to advancing the specialty and improving patient care, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and leadership in the field.
Immune System Diseases Allergies & Allergic Diseases Asthma

HUD Continuums of Care (CoC) Grant

United Community Services Of Johnson County Inc
Private
Johnson County, Kansas, Sedgwick County, Kansas +2 more
US $2,500 - US $25,000,000

HUD Continuum of Care Grant

Overview

Each year, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers a national competitive funding opportunity to Continuums of Care (CoCs) working to end homelessness. On June 1st, 2026, HUD released the fiscal year 2026 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), see NOFO and CoC Program Competition

UCS serves as Johnson County’s CoC (KS-505) lead agency and collaborative applicant and submits the application annually on behalf of local members. In fiscal year 2024, $1,061,657 was awarded to members of KS-505’s CoC to support 7 programs in Johnson County offering permanent supportive housing, rapid rehousing, homeless data management services and CoC planning support.

The CoC Program (24 CFR part 578):

  • Promotes community-wide commitment to ending homelessness
  • Provides funding for nonprofit providers, states, and local governments to quickly re-house homeless individuals, youth, families, and persons fleeing domestic/dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking
  • Promotes access to and effective utilization of mainstream programs
  • Optimizes self-sufficiency among those experiencing homelessness
Homelessness Services Domestic Violence Sexual Assault / Abuse +1 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.