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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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Adaptive IPM For Invasive Agricultural Pests RFP

California Department of Food & Agriculture
State/Local Government
California
Up to US $500,000
The California Department of Food and Agriculture is inviting proposals for the Adaptive IPM for Invasive Agricultural Pests grant program. This initiative aims to develop integrated pest management strategies that can be implemented swiftly when new invasive pests threaten California's agriculture. With $500,000 available for one award, the program seeks to enhance existing IPM strategies and explore new control measures to combat pesticide resistance and ensure a sustainable agricultural environment.
Insect Pest Control Agricultural Pest Management

Safe Routes to School Construction Program: Rapid Response Constructions Grants

Oregon Department of Transportation
State/Local Government
Oregon
Up to US $500,000

Oregon Department of Transportation

The Oregon Department of Transportation began in 1913 when the Oregon Legislature created the Oregon Highway Commission to "get Oregon out of the mud."

Today, we develop programs related to Oregon’s system of highways, roads, and bridges; railways; public transportation services; transportation safety programs; driver and vehicle licensing; and motor carrier regulation.

Mission statement: ​We provide a safe and reliable multimodal transportation system that connects people and helps Oregon's communities and economy thrive.

Safe Routes to School Programs

“Safe Routes to School” refers to efforts that improve, educate, or encourage children safely walking (by foot or mobility device) or biking to school. The Oregon Department of Transportation has two main types of Safe Routes to School (SRTS) programs: Construction and Education and technical assistance. Construction programs focus on making sure safe walking and biking routes exist through investments in crossings, sidewalks and bike lanes, flashing beacons, and the like. Education programs focus on education and outreach to assure awareness and safe use of walking and biking routes.

Safe Routes to School Construction Program

The Safe Routes to School Construction Program provides grant funding for cities, counties, tribes, transit districts, and the state through a reimbursement process for investments that address barriers to students walking and biking to school.

Program Description

The Safe Routes to School Construction Program is housed in the Public Transportation Division and divided into three types of grants: Competitive Construction Grants; Rapid Response Constructions Grants; and Project Identification Program (Planning Assistance).

Grant cycles will be every two years starting in 2019. All subsequent funding cycles will be determined by the Safe Routes to School Advisory Committee and the Safe Routes to School Construction Program Manager.

Rapid Response Constructions Grants

Up to 10 percent of Safe Routes to School funds will be available for urgent needs or systemic safety issues. Funds will be distributed through an application process that is open as long as there are funds available.

The ODOT Safe Routes to School Rapid Response Construction Grant Program funds projects that are eligible for the Competitive Construction Grant program and meets unique eligibility requirements. Road authorities are encouraged to apply for urgent projects that address barriers for students walking and biking to school. Most eligibility requirements for the Rapid Response Grants are the same as the Competitive Construction Grants. However, some added eligibility requirements are unique to the Rapid Response Grant Program.

  • Be an Urgent Safety Need or Opportunity: Project must include proof of circumstances that trigger an urgent safety need or urgent opportunity that cannot wait until the next Safe Routes to School Infrastructure Competitive Grant Program which runs every two years. 
Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems Pedestrian & Bike-Friendly Infrastructure Public Infrastructure

H. Branch Howe Grant

Georgia Ornithological Society
Association/Society
Georgia (Country), North America +2 more
Up to US $15,000
The H. Branch Howe Grant, offered by the Georgia Ornithological Society, supports graduate students conducting ornithological research in Georgia. This grant encourages the scientific study of birds and conservation efforts, providing funding for research that enhances knowledge of avian life. Eligibility is limited to graduate students in Georgia, and preference is given to projects within state boundaries. The GOS aims to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among those passionate about birds and nature.
Ornithology Ornithological Conservation

Wild Geese Foundation Grants

Wild Geese Foundation
Private
Connecticut, Maine +4 more
Unspecified amount
The Wild Geese Foundation supports organizations focused on human rights, food justice, youth empowerment, and climate resilience. With a commitment to marginalized communities, they prioritize reproductive justice and sustainable agriculture in New England. Grants are available to 501(c)3 organizations, excluding those with budgets over $5 million or involved in international projects. Their mission emphasizes the importance of fostering environments where youth can thrive, ensuring a just and equitable society for all.
Food Access & Hunger Sustainable Agriculture & Agroecology Youth Services +2 more

Safe Routes to School Construction Program: Competitive Construction Grants

Oregon Department of Transportation
State/Local Government
Oregon
US $60,000 - US $3,000,000

Oregon Department of Transportation

The Oregon Department of Transportation began in 1913 when the Oregon Legislature created the Oregon Highway Commission to "get Oregon out of the mud."

Today, we develop programs related to Oregon’s system of highways, roads, and bridges; railways; public transportation services; transportation safety programs; driver and vehicle licensing; and motor carrier regulation.

Mission statement: ​We provide a safe and reliable multimodal transportation system that connects people and helps Oregon's communities and economy thrive.

Safe Routes to School Programs

“Safe Routes to School” refers to efforts that improve, educate, or encourage children safely walking (by foot or mobility device) or biking to school. The Oregon Department of Transportation has two main types of Safe Routes to School (SRTS) programs: Construction and Education and technical assistance. Construction programs focus on making sure safe walking and biking routes exist through investments in crossings, sidewalks and bike lanes, flashing beacons, and the like. Education programs focus on education and outreach to assure awareness and safe use of walking and biking routes.

Safe Routes to School Construction Program

The Safe Routes to School Construction Program provides grant funding for cities, counties, tribes, transit districts, and the state through a reimbursement process for investments that address barriers to students walking and biking to school.

Program Description

The Safe Routes to School Construction Program is housed in the Public Transportation Division and divided into three types of grants: Competitive Construction Grants; Rapid Response Constructions Grants; and Project Identification Program (Planning Assistance).

Grant cycles will be every two years starting in 2019. All subsequent funding cycles will be determined by the Safe Routes to School Advisory Committee and the Safe Routes to School Construction Program Manager.

Competitive Construction Grants

87.5 percent or more of Safe Routes to School funds will be set aside to build street safety projects to reduce barriers and hazards for children walking or bicycling to or from schools. Funds will be distributed through an application-based, competitive, process every two years.

All projects must have at least 40% local cash match for the Competitive Construction Grant Program. Projects may qualify for a reduced 10.27% or 0% local cash match if certain criteria are met.

Commitment to Outreach

Applicant must commit to completing a minimum amount of outreach informing the community about the new construction project and how to use it safely.

Focus Area

Project will primarily affect students at a Title I school as defined as a school where 40% or more students are low income including data sets to address transportation disparities. 

Public Transportation & Mass Transit Systems Pedestrian & Bike-Friendly Infrastructure Public Infrastructure

Lancaster Clean Water Fund

Lancaster County Community Foundation
Private
Lancaster County, Pennsylvania
US $1,000 - US $20,000
The Clean Water Fund: Small Implementation Grant aims to enhance collaboration for water quality improvement in Lancaster County by 2040. It supports diverse, watershed-scale projects, such as agricultural conservation and stormwater management. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) compliant and serve county residents. Grants do not require a match, and funds can cover administrative costs. This initiative is critical for reducing pollution and ensuring healthy water systems in the community.
Water Resource Management Freshwater Conservation

GCCF: Community Impact Grants - Youth and Education

Greenwood County Community Foundation
Corporate
Greenwood County, South Carolina
Up to US $5,000
The GCCF Community Impact Grants for Youth and Education aim to enhance the educational landscape in Greenwood County. These grants support initiatives that address educational attainment, reduce dropout rates, and foster early childhood development. Organizations with 501(c)(3) status can apply for up to $5,000 to fund specific programs that demonstrate collaboration and community value. This funding opportunity is vital for empowering youth and ensuring access to quality education for all residents.
Student Retention & Drop-Out Prevention Literacy Early Childhood Development +4 more

PMCA Research and Conservation Grant

Purple Martin Conservation Association
Private
Americas
US $500 - US $2,500
The Purple Martin Conservation Association offers the PMCA Research and Conservation Grant to support research on Purple Martins. This grant aims to promote conservation efforts and may cover expenses such as travel and supplies, though it does not fund salaries or overhead. Eligible applicants include students and professionals engaged in Purple Martin research, with a focus on projects that enhance the species' habitat and well-being.
Ornithology Ornithological Conservation

The Assisi Foundation of Memphis Grant

The Assisi Foundation of Memphis, Inc.
Private
Crittenden County, Arkansas, DeSoto County, Mississippi +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Assisi Foundation of Memphis Grant supports nonprofit organizations in improving community health, education, social justice, cultural enrichment, and capacity building. Grants are available for organizations in specific Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi counties, with eligibility focused on tax-exempt entities. Applications are accepted quarterly, with specific deadlines for different focus areas. The foundation seeks innovative ideas that align with its philanthropic mission and encourages organizations to apply for funding that promotes positive community transformation.
Human & Social Services Health Care Access & Delivery Wellness & Healthy Living +8 more

Mental Health & Human Services Grant Program

City of Lafayette, Colorado
State/Local Government
Boulder County, Colorado
Unspecified amount
The City of Lafayette's Mental Health & Human Services Grant Program supports nonprofit organizations that provide essential services to Lafayette residents. Eligible organizations can receive funding for various assistance programs, including food, rent, utility, and childcare help, as well as medical care and mental health resources. Preference is given to nonprofits that serve a significant number of local residents. This initiative aims to enhance the well-being of the community by addressing critical needs.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Basic Human Needs Food Access & Hunger +3 more

Lafayette County Bluebird Society Legacy Fund (LCBS)

The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Private
Columbia County, Wisconsin, Dane County, Wisconsin +6 more
Up to US $3,500
The Lafayette County Bluebird Society Legacy Fund (LCBS) is dedicated to supporting bird conservation initiatives and educational programs in the Driftless Area of southwest Wisconsin. Managed by the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, the fund prioritizes projects that include Lafayette County and organizations whose main mission aligns with bird conservation. Grant applications are reviewed by a volunteer advisory board, and requests should ideally not exceed $3,500.
Ornithology Ornithological Conservation

Architecture + Design Independent Projects Grants

The Architectural League of New York
Private
New York
US $10,000
The Architecture + Design Independent Projects Grants program, a collaboration between the New York State Council on the Arts and The Architectural League of New York, offers 25 grants of $10,000 each for innovative design proposals. Open to individuals and teams in various design fields, including architecture and graphic design, this initiative encourages creative exploration and public engagement with design. Applications will be evaluated by a panel of design experts, ensuring support for impactful projects that advance the discipline.
Architecture Landscape Architecture Historic Preservation +2 more

Crawford Impact Initiative Grants

Crawford Heritage Community Foundation
Private
Crawford County, Pennsylvania
US $5,000 - US $25,000
The Crawford Impact Initiative Grants support non-profit organizations in Crawford County, providing a redesigned grant program that offers impactful funding opportunities. Organizations can apply for funding from both restricted and unrestricted funds, with a single application. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofits, governmental bodies, municipalities, and schools. The initiative emphasizes preventive and impactful projects addressing community needs, with a focus on collaboration and measurable outcomes.
Art & Culture Education Agriculture +11 more

SCCF: Arts & Culture, Environment, Recreation, Community Development, Other Grants Cycle

Steuben County Community Foundation
Private
Steuben County, Indiana
US $3,000 - US $10,000
The SCCF grants aim to enhance artistic offerings, preserve Steuben County's natural resources, and improve recreational access. These grants support nonprofit organizations in their mission to uplift community quality of life through collaborative projects. Eligible projects include those that foster community gathering and address root causes of local issues. Ineligibility includes projects funded solely by government or those that do not serve the community. This initiative seeks to enrich both the cultural and environmental landscape of the region.
Art & Culture Recreation Environment +5 more

Upper Bucks Community Foundation Fund of LVCF

Lehigh Valley Community Foundation
Private
Bucks County, Pennsylvania
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Upper Bucks Community Foundation Fund of LVCF, managed by the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations in the Upper Bucks area, including Palisades, Pennridge, and Quakertown School Districts. It primarily funds projects in visual arts, performing arts, industrial arts, agricultural education, and conservation of rural life. This fund includes the Richard E. Gasser Fund and the Erwin J. and Gertrude K. Neusch Fund, which focus on enhancing community engagement and educational initiatives.
Science Emerging Technology Development Data Science & Digital Information Systems +8 more

Winneshiek County Grants

Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa
Private
Winneshiek County, Iowa
US $3,000 - US $20,000
The Winneshiek County Community Foundation, part of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, enhances the quality of life in Winneshiek County through grants that foster community development. By supporting arts, education, health, and environmental initiatives, the Foundation aims to empower local organizations and residents. Its focus on innovative and impactful projects ensures that funds create lasting benefits, while encouraging charitable giving and civic engagement in the region.
Community Services Art & Culture Education +7 more

Grundy County Grants

Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa
Private
Grundy County, Iowa
More than US $1,000
The Grundy County Community Foundation, part of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, supports charitable projects to enhance life in Grundy County. It aims to foster vibrant communities through grants focused on arts, education, health, and community betterment. With strong emphasis on addressing local needs and sustainability, the Foundation prioritizes proposals that demonstrate community support and collaboration. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities. Applications are welcomed for projects that benefit the residents of Grundy County.
Community Services Art & Culture Education +8 more

Unity for Humanity Grant

Unity Technologies
Corporate
Afghanistan, Algeria +83 more
Up to US $500,000
The Unity for Humanity Grant invites innovative creators to submit impact-driven projects that utilize real-time 3D technology. This annual grant provides funding, technical support, and marketing resources to help bring visionary ideas to life. Projects must align with UN Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrate measurable impact. Eligible submissions include prototypes across various genres, fostering a more inclusive and sustainable world. Join us in empowering changemakers to make a positive global difference.
Human & Social Services Environment Health & Medicine +11 more

Franklin County Grants

Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa
Private
Franklin County, Iowa
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Franklin County Community Foundation, part of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, aims to enhance the quality of life in Franklin County through grant funding. Supporting diverse areas such as arts, education, and community betterment, the foundation encourages local projects that demonstrate sustainability and community impact. Since its inception, it has been dedicated to fostering lasting legacies and meaningful contributions to the community, making Franklin County a better place for its residents.
Community Services Art & Culture Education +7 more

NIAID Career Transition Award (K22 Independent Clinical Trial Not Allowed) (357511)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $250,000
The NIAID Career Transition Award (K22) supports postdoctoral fellows transitioning to independent research positions, fostering their development into successful biomedical scientists. Key deadlines for applications span from February 2025 to June 2027, including specific dates for standard, renewal, and AIDS-related grants. This initiative, funded by the NIH, aims to enhance the career trajectory of emerging researchers in clinical and biomedical fields, ensuring a robust pipeline of innovative scientific talent.
Science Biology Medical Education & Professional Training +3 more

Floyd County Grants

Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa
Private
Floyd County, Iowa
US $1,000 - US $15,000
The Floyd County Community Foundation, part of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in Floyd County through strategic grants. Established in 1956, the foundation supports various sectors, including arts, education, health, and community betterment. By fostering generosity and community action, they aim to create equitable opportunities for all residents. Their commitment to responsible stewardship ensures that donor contributions are effectively utilized for community enhancement.
Community Services Art & Culture Education +7 more

Emmet County Community Foundation Grants

Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa
Private
Emmet County, Iowa
US $3,000 - US $20,000
The Emmet County Community Foundation Grants aim to enhance the quality of life in Emmet County, Iowa, by funding projects that foster community development and engagement. These grants support various sectors, including arts, education, health, and environment, focusing on initiatives that demonstrate collaboration and volunteerism. Organizations eligible for funding must be recognized nonprofits or government entities, ensuring their projects benefit local residents and contribute to sustainable community growth.
Community Services Art & Culture Education +8 more

Chickasaw County Grants

Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa
Private
Chickasaw County, Iowa
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Chickasaw County Community Foundation, part of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents in Chickasaw County through impactful grants. With a focus on arts, education, health, and community betterment, the foundation supports projects that demonstrate sustainability and long-term benefits. Organizations eligible for funding must meet specific criteria, including being a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or government entity, ensuring effective use of resources to address community needs.
Community Services Art & Culture Education +7 more

Butler County Grants

Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa
Private
Butler County, Iowa
More than US $1,000
The Butler County Grants, administered by the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, aim to enhance the quality of life for residents in Butler County. With a focus on supporting nonprofits, the foundation prioritizes projects that address vital community needs, encourage additional funding, and serve a substantial number of people. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities that meet specific criteria. The foundation seeks to create vibrant communities through impactful grant-making.
Community Services Art & Culture Education +7 more

Mackinac Island Community Foundation Grant

Mackinac Island Community Foundation
Private
Mackinac County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Mackinac Island Community Foundation Grant, established in 1994, aims to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors of Mackinac Island. It supports various projects focusing on arts, education, environmental conservation, and community enrichment. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and municipal groups. Priority is given to initiatives that foster cooperation, address emerging needs, and benefit a large segment of the community. However, grants are not available for individuals or operational costs.
Health & Medicine Art & Culture Environmental Education +8 more

Stassel Education Scholarship

The Alaska Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000

About Us

Overview

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives. ACF also manages the Pick.Click.Give. program.

Mission

Inspiring the spirit of giving and connecting people, organizations, and causes to strengthen Alaska’s communities now and forever.

Vision

ACF envisions an Alaska where communities come together and have resources to thrive.

Stassel Education Scholarship Fund

The Stassel Fund was established in memory of Fred L. and Jean N. Stassel who came to Alaska on their honeymoon in 1949, making Anchorage their home for over 60 years until they passed away in 2017 and 2011 respectively. Here they raised 6 children, celebrated Alaska's statehood in 1959, survived the 1964 earthquake, and became active in the community and state. The Fund honors their dedication to education and service to others focusing on creating opportunities for all Alaskans, especially the vulnerable and most in need. Fred and Jean valued education, hard work, integrity, justice, respect, and care for all people. They were both educators, commercial fishers, and very active in social services through the United Methodist Church and other organizations. Fred was very influential in establishing the now-named Credit Union 1, and Jean was active with The League of Women Voters. They would be honored to know that deserving Alaskans were able to pursue their educational goals with the help of scholarships from the Stassel Education Fund.

Education - Higher Education STEM / STEAM Education Mathematics +7 more

Opioid Abatement Community Grants Program (OACGP): Multiyear Project Grants

Granite United Way
Private
New Hampshire
Up to US $75,000
Granite United Way administers the Opioid Abatement Community Grants Program (OACGP) to combat the opioid crisis in New Hampshire. This initiative allocates $10 million over two years to support community-based prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, municipalities, and governmental entities dedicated to improving community well-being. The program aims to create lasting positive change by addressing critical health and social issues related to opioid abuse.
Community Services Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Drug Use Disorder +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.