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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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32,565 Results based on applied filters

Hathaway Family Foundation Grant

Hathaway Family Foundation Inc
Private
Greenville County, South Carolina
Unspecified amount
The Hathaway Family Foundation Grant aims to enhance the lives of individuals in need within Greenville, South Carolina. This private foundation focuses on improving food security, access to quality healthcare, conservation efforts, and addressing homelessness. By supporting organizations that provide temporary shelters, mental health care, and food distribution, the foundation ensures targeted assistance for the most vulnerable populations. The foundation's commitment reflects a dedication to fostering community well-being and positive change.
Food Access & Hunger Health Care Access & Delivery Parks & Public Spaces +2 more

Crown Automotive Charities/Hawkins Family Foundation Grant

Dwayne Hawkins Family Foundation Inc
Private
Catoosa County, Georgia, Delaware County, Ohio +8 more
Unspecified amount
The Hawkins Family Foundation Grant supports diverse non-profit initiatives including healthcare, education, and community development. Primarily funding organizations in Chattanooga, Dublin/Columbus, and Tampa Bay, it requires applicants to be 501(c)(3) public charities or have fiscal sponsors with this status. This grant aims to uplift local communities and enhance the quality of life through various supportive programs.
Animal Welfare - General Military & Veterans Services Economic Services & Development +4 more

A.C. Ratshesky Foundation Grant: Workforce Development

A.C. Ratshesky Foundation
Private
Bristol County, Massachusetts, Essex County, Massachusetts +4 more
US $10,000 - US $25,000
The A.C. Ratshesky Foundation Grant for Workforce Development aims to empower economically disadvantaged individuals and families by providing essential educational and vocational services. Prioritizing programs that enhance skills and foster self-sufficiency, the foundation supports initiatives like job placement, training, and employer partnerships. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $25,000, focusing on organizations that can effectively utilize these funds to promote long-term employment and economic security in Metro Boston communities.
Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Career / College Preparation English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Education +2 more

Bono Brothers Memorial Trust Grant

Bono Brothers Memorial Trust
Private
Marin County, California
US $5,000 - US $7,500
The Bono Brothers Memorial Trust Grant supports needy children in Marin County, California, through Catholic charitable organizations. Established in 1962 by Joseph Bono, the Trust awards an average of four grants annually to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations. The funds are intended for the care, support, maintenance, and education of these children, ensuring they receive necessary assistance and resources for a better future.
Basic Human Needs Poverty Alleviation & Services Child Welfare Services +5 more

Common Waters: Strengthening Community-based Coastal and Riverine Stewardship

National Geographic Society
Private
Africa, Alaska +25 more
Up to US $75,000

Common Waters: Strengthening Community-based Coastal and Riverine Stewardship

Opportunity Overview

Projects supported by this RFP must be community-based stewardship initiatives (including but not limited to stewardship driven by Indigenous and descendant communities); they should be led by an individual with a strong connection to and/or an existing track record of work in the community(ies) where the project will take place, or by a member of the community themselves, and be designed in response to community needs. Projects can focus on a wide range of specific issues, including (but not limited to) local conservation and ecosystem restoration, climate change adaptation and resilience, or sustainable fishing/agriculture. The RFP will prioritize projects in National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions destinations, including the Arctic, Asia, Baja California, Costa Rica and Panama, Europe and the Mediterranean, Patagonia, the Peruvian Amazon, the Pacific Northwest, Southeast Alaska and British Columbia, the South Pacific, and the United Kingdom and Ireland. For more detailed information on targeted areas within these regions, please refer to the targeted areas document.

Freshwater Conservation Coastal Conservation Climate Change Resilience & Equity

Global Raptor Research & Conservation Grant

HawkWatch International
Private
Africa, Antarctica +2 more
Up to US $3,500
The Global Raptor Research & Conservation Grant, offered by HawkWatch International, supports crucial projects focused on raptor conservation in high-priority regions such as Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia. With funding available up to $2,500, the grant encourages applications from local citizens associated with NGOs or universities. Preference is given to projects that address knowledge gaps and have a significant impact on conservation efforts, particularly those led by early-career researchers in low-income countries.
Ornithological Conservation Ornithology

Maxinmotion Grants

Maxinmotion
Private
Arizona, California
Unspecified amount
MaxInMotion Grants provide essential financial support to youth sports organizations in Arizona and California, ensuring that financially challenged children can participate in sports programs. This funding not only promotes physical fitness but also fosters character development, teamwork, and academic excellence among youth. By prioritizing inclusivity, MaxInMotion aims to create equal athletic opportunities for all children, including those with special needs. The foundation is dedicated to combating the negative impacts of reduced sports access in low-income communities.
Sports & Athletics Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Hockey +4 more

Advocare Foundation Grants

Advocare Foundation
Private
California, Colorado +8 more
Approximately US $25,000
The AdvoCare Foundation, established in 1993, aims to promote health and wellness for children through its grant program. Focused on year-round initiatives, the foundation supports local communities where AdvoCare distributors operate. Grants typically last one year with an average funding of $25,000, although multi-year support may be available. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster positive health changes and encourages collaborative efforts with previous grantees.
Food Access & Hunger Nutrition & Healthy Eating Physical Fitness +3 more

Buell Foundation Grant

Temple Hoyne Buell Foundation
Private
Colorado
Unspecified amount
The Buell Foundation Grant supports organizations that enhance children's education and development in Colorado. Focused on underserved communities, it prioritizes early childhood programs, evaluations, and quality improvements. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $50,000, directing funds to those committed to impactful initiatives. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or government entities with a dedication to non-discrimination and community engagement. The foundation aims to create sustainable support for programs that foster positive outcomes for children.
Reproductive Education Early Childhood Development Education - Preschool / Early Learning +3 more

AWWA Scholarship Program - Woodard & Curran Scholarship

American Water Works Association (AWWA)
Association/Society
North America
US $5,000
The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Woodard & Curran Scholarship, offers a $5,000 merit-based award annually to undergraduate or graduate students focused on water-related fields. This initiative aims to support historically marginalized communities, including women and BIPOC students, promoting equity in the water industry. With clean water being essential for community health, this scholarship reflects AWWA's commitment to nurturing the next generation of water professionals.
Water Resource Management Environment Academic Scholarship Programs

AWWA Scholarship Program - Jacobs Holly A. Cornell Scholarship

American Water Works Association (AWWA)
Association/Society
North America
US $10,000
The AWWA Jacobs Holly A. Cornell Scholarship, established in 1990, supports graduate students pursuing water supply and treatment studies. Sponsored by Jacobs/CH2M, this $10,000 scholarship is aimed at first-generation college graduates or those who have faced economic disadvantages and significant educational barriers. AWWA, the largest organization of water supply professionals, emphasizes the importance of investing in the future of the water industry through such scholarships.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Water Resource Management

Emergency Solutions Grant Program

City of Newark - Office of Homeless Services
State/Local Government
Essex County, New Jersey
Unspecified amount

City of Newark - Office of Homeless Services

The City of Newark, Department of Health and Community Wellness, Office of Homeless Services (OHS) is now accepting proposals from Newark organizations for inclusion in the City’s 2026-2027 HUD Entitlement Programs. 

The Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing Act of 2009 (HEARTH Act), signed into law on May 20, 2009, consolidates three of the separate homeless assistance programs administered by HUD under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act into a single grant program, and revises the Emergency Shelter Grants program and renames it as the Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) program. The HEARTH Act also codifies into law the Continuum of Care planning process, a longstanding part of HUD’s application process, to assist homeless people by providing greater coordination in responding to their needs.

Emergency Solutions Grant Program

The change in the program’s name, from Emergency Shelter Grants to Emergency Solutions Grants, reflects the change in the program’s focus from addressing the needs of homeless people in emergency or transitional shelters to assisting people to quickly regain stability in permanent housing after experiencing a housing crisis and/or homelessness.

The City of Newark has the responsibility of making use of ESG funds, as part of implementing a “Continuum of Care” to address the issue of homelessness and to coordinate activities with other non-profit service providers and organizations. This Request For Proposal (RFP) seeks to solicit proposals that will improve the quality of existing emergency shelters for the homeless and provide certain essential and preventative services to address homelessness.

The City of Newark’s ESG program provides resources for the following program components:

  • Rapid Re-Housing;
  • Homelessness Prevention; and
  • Emergency Shelter.
Homelessness Services Equitable & Affordable Housing Supportive Housing & Shelters

Earth Rising Foundation Grants

Earth Rising Foundation
Private
United States
US $200 - US $20,000
The Earth Rising Foundation Grants provide financial support ranging from $200 to $20,000 for grassroots climate initiatives. The foundation emphasizes empowering Indigenous communities, advocating for sustainable agricultural practices, and addressing social justice issues linked to climate change. By fostering youth involvement and supporting innovative projects, the foundation aims to create a vision for a sustainable future that respects both people and the planet. Applications must be submitted through a US-based nonprofit organization.
Youth Services Climate Change Resilience & Equity Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +3 more

NC Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services
State/Local Government
North Carolina
Up to US $200,000
The NC Specialty Crop Block Grant Program aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, and nursery crops. Administered by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, the program offers funding to support projects that improve food safety, research, and distribution efficiency. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and government agencies. This initiative promotes sustainable practices and increases nutrition knowledge related to specialty crops, benefiting both producers and consumers.
Agricultural Crops Sustainable Agriculture & Agroecology Food Safety +2 more

Watershed Association Professional Development Mini-Grants

Lake Champlain Basin Program
State/Local Government
Addison County, Vermont, Bennington County, Vermont +13 more
Up to US $500
The Watershed Association Professional Development Mini-Grants support staff and volunteers of watershed organizations in the Lake Champlain Basin. These grants cover costs for professional development activities aimed at enhancing water quality and organizational capacity. Eligible organizations include 501c3 nonprofits focused on water stewardship. Preference is given to those with previous LCBP contracts exceeding $4,000. Applications are accepted monthly, with awards announced shortly after deadlines.
Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management

WV Forest Legacy Grant Program

West Virginia Division of Forestry
State/Local Government
Berkeley County, West Virginia, Fayette County, West Virginia +18 more
Unspecified amount
The WV Forest Legacy Grant Program aims to conserve vital forest areas in West Virginia that are at risk of being transformed into non-forest land. Through a conservation easement, property owners can sell or donate their development rights while retaining other ownership rights. The program operates on a 75:25 matching basis, with the West Virginia Division of Forestry managing the conservation easements to ensure that these lands continue to function as working forests.
Land / Habitat Conservation Forestry

Latin American/Caribbean Conservation Research Grant

American Ornithological Society
Association/Society
Caribbean, Central America +2 more
Up to US $5,000
The Latin American/Caribbean Conservation Research Grant, sponsored by the American Ornithological Society, aims to support early career scientists conducting conservation research on migratory and resident birds in Latin America and the Caribbean. Grants of up to $5,000 USD will be awarded for projects that demonstrate innovative approaches and actionable outcomes. Eligible applicants must have a graduate degree and a strong commitment to ethical research practices. Proposals are welcome in multiple languages, but abstracts must be in English.
Ornithological Conservation Ornithology

Reed and Carolee Walker Fund Grant

The Oregon Community Foundation
Private
Jackson County, Oregon
US $5,000 - US $150,000
The Reed and Carolee Walker Fund, established in 2003, is a permanent endowment managed by The Oregon Community Foundation. It aims to support low-income families and children in Jackson County, providing essential services such as food, shelter, and mental health assistance. With an annual grant distribution of approximately $2 million, the fund prioritizes organizations that enhance self-sufficiency and address emergency needs, ensuring vulnerable populations receive the support they require.
Children’s Mental Health Children’s Health & Pediatrics Addiction & Substance Use Disorders +4 more

Maintenance Small Grants Program

Chesapeake Bay Trust
Private
Maryland
Up to US $500

Maintenance Small Grants Program

Watershed restoration projects like tree planting, rain gardens, bioswales, conservation landscaping, pollinator habitat, and stream buffers generally have two phases: 1) installation and 2) operation and maintenance for the lifespan of the project. Maintaining projects keeps them functioning as designed and ensures aesthetic value, which maintains public support for these investments. We want restoration practices to clean water, cool neighborhoods, and provide habitat benefits long after installation.

Our goal is to grow this new program over time. We appreciate your feedback as we continue to build it.

What this funds: This program will focus on small-scale maintenance projects that are $500 or less, specifically for:

  • invasive species removal/control and/or
  • plant replacements/enhancements. Funds cannot be used to purchase non-native species.
Water Resource Management Environmental Contamination & Pollution

Research and Development Grant Program

Ohio Water Development Authority (OWDA)
State/Local Government
Ohio
US $200,000
The Research and Development Grant Program by the Ohio Water Development Authority (OWDA) supports innovative projects in wastewater, water management, solid waste, and energy resource development. Eligible applicants include local government agencies and higher education institutions. Priority is given to proposals that enhance water quality, technology, equity, and resilience. Grants are contingent upon available funding, and applicants are advised to review the Participation Agreement before applying.
Waste Management Green Infrastructure Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water

Mumford & Keller Grant and Scholarship Program

Indiana Audubon Society Inc.
Private
United States
US $500 - US $5,000
The Mumford & Keller Grant and Scholarship Program, initiated by Indiana Audubon in 2010, offers financial support for projects focusing on natural resources and Indiana's birdlife. With grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, it aims to promote conservation, research, and education. Priority is given to initiatives targeting key species and habitats within Indiana. This program honors the legacy of Russell Mumford and Charles Keller, enhancing bird conservation efforts for future generations.
Ornithology Ornithological Conservation

Teton Springs Foundation Grant

Teton Springs Foundation
Private
Teton County, Idaho
Up to US $20,000
The Teton Springs Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Teton Valley, Idaho, by providing financial support to nonprofits. This grant focuses on impactful projects in areas such as arts, education, health, recreation, and environmental conservation. Eligible organizations, including 501(c)(3) entities, can apply for funding to implement projects that yield measurable benefits. The foundation encourages collaboration and values partnerships to maximize community impact, ensuring a brighter future for the Teton Valley.
Art & Culture Education Human & Social Services +5 more

The Applied Materials Momentum Fund - Last Mile Grants

Applied Materials Foundation
Corporate
United States
Up to US $10,000
The Applied Materials Momentum Fund is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for students in the semiconductor industry, particularly supporting women engineers. This initiative provides essential financial assistance through various grant types, including emergency mini-grants and larger Last Mile grants, aimed at helping students overcome financial barriers in their pursuit of degrees. By fostering diverse and resilient teams, the fund contributes to innovation and growth in technology and engineering fields.
Science Communications Physics Bioengineering +10 more

The Applied Materials Momentum Fund - Bridge Grants

Applied Materials Foundation
Corporate
United States
Approximately US $1,100
The Applied Materials Momentum Fund - Bridge Grants aim to support students facing financial obstacles in completing their computing degrees. This initiative fosters diversity in the semiconductor industry by encouraging women engineers and providing them with career-building opportunities. Eligible candidates include U.S. citizens, DACA recipients, and F1 visa holders pursuing engineering majors. The fund not only alleviates financial stress but also opens doors to internships and full-time positions at Applied Materials, thus enhancing educational progress and career advancement.
Science Communications Physics Bioengineering +10 more

The Applied Materials Momentum Fund - Emergency Financial Assistance

Applied Materials Foundation
Corporate
United States
Up to US $595
The Applied Materials Momentum Fund offers emergency financial assistance to students facing unexpected financial obstacles while pursuing degrees in engineering. This initiative supports basic needs such as food, housing, and transportation, ensuring that students can continue their education without interruption. It aims to empower women engineers and underrepresented groups in the semiconductor industry, fostering a diverse and resilient workforce for the future.
Aerospace Engineering Chemical Engineering Computer Science & Engineering +10 more

Union Home Foundation Grant

The Union Home Foundation Inc
Private
Ada County, Idaho, Aiken County, South Carolina +183 more
More than US $1,000
The Union Home Foundation Grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that promote economic self-sufficiency through financial literacy and housing initiatives. Established in 2015, this grant has awarded over $2 million to various nonprofits across the U.S. Grants typically start at $1,000 and are available for a one-year period. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and can only apply once per year, following specific eligibility criteria.
Financial Literacy Equitable & Affordable Housing Supportive Housing & Shelters

HEAL Initiative: Pain Research Enhancement Program (PREP) (R15 Clinical Trial Optional)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $375,000
The HEAL Initiative's Pain Research Enhancement Program (PREP) aims to support R15-eligible Principal Investigators in conducting vital pain research. This initiative fosters interdisciplinary partnerships and enhances the research environment for health trainees at eligible institutions. Key application deadlines include November 19, 2024, for standard submissions, with later dates for AIDS-related applications. Engaging students in these projects is a priority to advance pain research effectively.
Chronic / Acute Pain Drug Use Disorder Anesthesia and Pain Medicine

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.