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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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32,618 Results based on applied filters

VCF: Women’s Fund Grants Program

Community Foundation Alliance, Inc.
Private
Vanderburgh County, Indiana
Up to US $50,000
The Women’s Fund Grants Program, conducted by the Community Foundation Alliance, Inc., supports nonprofit organizations serving Vanderburgh County. This year's cycle includes two Impact Grants of $50,000 each for programs and projects, alongside four additional grants of $20,000 for finalists. Eligible organizations must demonstrate long-term planning, financial sustainability, and a commitment to gender equity. Applications will be accepted from 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities and governmental agencies.
Community Development & Revitalization Education Health & Medicine +7 more

BRCFSC Community Grants

Blue River Community Foundation of Shelby County
Private
Shelby County, Indiana
US $2,500 - US $25,000
The BRCFSC Community Grants, offered by the Blue River Community Foundation, support projects in Art & Culture, Health, Education, and Social Services for Shelby County residents. These grants are funded through various unrestricted family and interest funds, promoting initiatives that address beautification, youth support, and disability services. Eligible organizations must demonstrate sound accounting practices, while projects already in progress or focused on travel or political campaigns are ineligible. This competitive grant cycle encourages community-driven development.
Human & Social Services Health & Medicine Education +8 more

Five Star Community Foundation: Community Development Grant

Five Star Community Foundation
Association/Society
Redwood County, Minnesota
Unspecified amount

Mission Statement

The mission of The Five Star Community Foundation is to:

  • Create, encourage and support the development and maintenance of various charitable activities, community projects, assist in humanitarian and educational endeavors, to build a strong vibrant quality of life by converting tax dollars into community assets.
  • The Five Star Community Foundation has been established by representatives of Lucan, Seaforth, Vesta, Wabasso and Wanda communities to benefit the citizens of the area to build a sense of community and serve future charitable and cultural needs.

Community Development Grant Program

Multiple-year Community Development Grants may be awarded. If a Multiple-year Community Development Grant is awarded, funds will be provided annually and subsequent year funding is contingent upon compliance in the previous year(s) with any and all stipulations set forth by the Foundation If the Foundation determines that any stipulations not been met, it may, at its sole discretion, terminate continued funding of the project or program The Five Star Community Foundation Advisory Committee shall approve additional criteria and rules for the Community Development Grant Program as needed.

Community Development Grant Application

Grants are restricted to nonprofit organizations that have 501(c)(3) tax exempt status; educational, schools and religious organizations (for non-sectarian projects open to the community) and governmental agencies. If you are not a 501(c)(3) we suggest you use the fiscal agent option below that qualifies.

Volunteerism & Philanthropy Education Environment +7 more

Judy Ziels Memorial Scholarship

Chuckanut Health Foundation
Private
Whatcom County, Washington
US $2,000 - US $4,000
The Judy Ziels Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Chuckanut Health Foundation, honors a remarkable leader in public health. This scholarship supports master's-prepared nurse leaders who understand the importance of addressing interconnected health systems. By investing in education and mentorship, the program fosters future leaders who will drive meaningful change in their communities. This initiative reflects Judy's legacy of compassion and commitment to empowering others, ensuring that her influence continues to inspire new generations.
Academic Scholarship Programs Nursing Education - Higher Education +3 more

Adams County Opioid Settlement Fund

Adams County
State/Local Government
Adams County, Illinois
Unspecified amount
The Adams County Opioid Settlement Fund aims to address substance use disorders by administering settlement funds to support impactful community projects in Adams County, Illinois. The committee prioritizes core abatement strategies, including naloxone distribution, medication-assisted treatment, and prevention programs. Non-profit and for-profit entities serving the county are eligible to apply, with a focus on projects benefiting local residents. Sustainability and compliance with legal requirements are essential to ensure long-term impact.
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Drug Use Disorder

Cass County Opioid Settlement Funds: Non-Emergency and Non-Crisis Response Funding

Cass County (Michigan)
State/Local Government
Cass County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Cass County Opioid Settlement Funds aim to support organizations addressing opioid use through prevention, treatment, and community support initiatives. The funding prioritizes services for individuals and families affected by opioid use, focusing on racial equity and youth prevention. Grants are available for both emergency and non-emergency interventions, ensuring a fair and transparent process for fund allocation. This initiative seeks to make a significant impact on the community by addressing unmet needs and leveraging collaboration with local service providers.
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Drug Use Disorder

Cass County Opioid Settlement Funds

Cass County (Michigan)
State/Local Government
Cass County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Cass County Opioid Settlement Funds provide crucial financial resources to address opioid-related issues in Michigan. Originating from a $26 billion settlement, nearly $800 million will be allocated over 18 years, with half directed to local governments. Priority funding areas include naloxone distribution, treatment for pregnant women, and support for incarcerated individuals. Additional settlements are expected to enhance resources, emphasizing the importance of community support and addressing the needs of underserved populations impacted by the opioid crisis.
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Drug Use Disorder

Region 12 Opioid Abatement Council Emergency Fund

Douglas County Community Foundation
Private
Douglas County, Colorado
US $20,000 - US $100,000
The Region 12 Opioid Abatement Council Emergency Fund aims to support organizations focused on opioid and substance use disorder (OUD/SUD) prevention, intervention, treatment, recovery, or harm reduction. Eligible applicants include non-profits, governmental bodies, academic institutions, healthcare providers, and businesses. This funding addresses financial hardships caused by unexpected budget shortfalls or increased service demand due to crises in the community, ensuring continued support for those affected by OUD/SUD.
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Drug Use Disorder

Grants for research on Baltic Sea Ecosystems

Walter and Andrée de Nottbeck Foundation
Private
Finland
Unspecified amount
The Walter and Andrée de Nottbeck Foundation offers grants for research on Baltic Sea ecosystems at the Tvärminne Zoological Station, Finland. Funding includes scholarships for MSc and PhD students, postdoctoral support, and project grants, totaling around 700,000 € annually. The foundation emphasizes research collaboration and scientific excellence while prioritizing researchers based at the station. Senior researchers are invited to apply for five-year positions with competitive salaries. Successful candidates are expected to reside at the station during their fellowship.
Ecology Marine / Ocean Conservation Marine Biology +2 more

Floodplains by Design Grants

State of Washington Department of Ecology
State/Local Government
Washington
Up to US $10,000,000
The Floodplains by Design Grants program aims to enhance community resilience to flooding and restore vital habitats in Washington's river corridors. This initiative, led by the Washington Department of Ecology and various partners, supports projects that mitigate flood risks while preserving agriculture and promoting outdoor recreation. Eligible applicants include local governments and nonprofits, focusing on integrated floodplain management to address climate impacts and ensure sustainable development.
Natural Disaster Science Hydrology Freshwater Conservation +1 more

Diversity Mentorship Grant Program - Pathways Medical Student Mentorship Program

American Academy of Dermatology
Association/Society
United States
US $500
The Diversity Mentorship Grant Program aims to enhance ethnic diversity in dermatology by providing mentorship to underrepresented medical students. Participants receive 160 hours of hands-on experience with a dermatologist, fostering a deeper understanding of the field. A stipend of $1,500 is available for travel and living expenses. Applications are open until November 1 for the upcoming year, encouraging students from diverse backgrounds, including Black, Hispanic, and Native American groups, to apply.
Skin Diseases & Dermatology Medical Education & Professional Training Asian / Pacific Island Culture & Heritage +3 more

Cooperative Agreement for affiliated Partner with Californian Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit

US Department of the Interior: Geological Survey (USGS)
Federal Government
California
Up to US $150,000
The USGS is providing a funding opportunity for research aimed at enhancing gene expression panels to assess stressors impacting Californian ecosystems. This initiative focuses on species such as sea lions, sea otters, and salmon while supporting governmental priorities in ecosystem resilience and public health. The project also aligns with key executive orders, ensuring actionable scientific data for effective management decisions and ecosystem recovery efforts.
Wildlife Management Genetics & Genomics Marine / Ocean Conservation +1 more

Partners in Arts Scholarship

East Texas Communities Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000
The Partners in Arts Scholarship, administered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Smith County who have engaged in performing or visual arts and plan to pursue a related major in college. This scholarship highlights the importance of arts education and aims to empower students to achieve their academic goals. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to the arts and meet specific criteria, ensuring that funding is awarded to deserving candidates.
Art Education Music Education Education - Higher Education +4 more

Juliette Low’s Amazing Girls Scholarship

East Texas Communities Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000
The Juliette Low’s Amazing Girls Scholarship, established in 2011 by the East Texas Communities Foundation, is aimed at female graduating seniors from Smith County who have been active in Girl Scouts. This scholarship supports educational pursuits for students attending any college in the U.S. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and have a minimum GPA of 3.00. The award amount is $1,000, and preference is given to recipients of the Girl Scout Gold Award. Reapplication is encouraged.
Academic Scholarship Programs Educational Access & Equity Education - Higher Education +3 more

Richard and Lou Ann Bergen Scholarship in the Creative Arts

Greater Salina Community Foundation
Private
Douglas County, Kansas, Jackson County, Missouri +4 more
More than US $1,000

Our mission is to enhance quality of life, today and in the future, by:

  • Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
  • Building a permanent endowment
  • Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
  • Meeting needs through grants, awards, and scholarships

Richard and Lou Ann Bergen Scholarship in the Creative Arts

Amount

Minimum $1,000

Geographic Limitations

Saline County high school seniors attending either Bethany College, Kansas City Art Institute, Kansas State University, Kansas Wesleyan University, University of Kansas or Wichita State University.

Renewals

Scholarship is renewable up to four years.

Education - Higher Education Performing Arts Fine Art +3 more

CFSKY: Women's Fund - Impact Grant

The Community Foundation of South Central Kentucky
Private
Allen County, Kentucky, Barren County, Kentucky +8 more
Unspecified amount
The CFSKY: Women's Fund - Impact Grant supports nonprofit organizations in South Central Kentucky that are dedicated to improving the lives of women and children. Annually, this grant funds significant projects that demonstrate sustainability, measurable goals, and a commitment to gender equity. Eligible organizations include those recognized as tax-exempt, and projects can range from capital improvements to educational initiatives. The fund emphasizes collaboration and innovative solutions to community challenges.
Women & Girl Services Child Welfare Services Women's Rights & Equality +3 more

Cooperative Agreement for Affiliated Partner with the Hawaiʻi-Pacific Islands Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU)

US Department of the Interior: Geological Survey (USGS)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +2 more
Up to US $435,000
This project aims to combat invasive species in Hawaiʻi, a significant threat to biodiversity and ecosystem health. By analyzing data from horticultural trade and invasion records of 19,000 plant taxa, it will identify high-risk species and areas for invasion. The findings will guide federal and state partners in early detection and management efforts, enhancing preparedness against hazards like wildfires and erosion. Ultimately, this initiative supports U.S. leadership in adaptation science and improves ecosystem resilience.
Wildlife Management Land / Habitat Conservation Environmental Health +1 more

Columbus Motion Picture Incentive (CMPI) Grant

Greater Columbus Arts Council
Private
Delaware County, Ohio, Fairfield County, Ohio +5 more
Up to US $30,000

Greater Columbus Arts Council

Our mission: To champion and elevate the arts and cultural expression of Greater Columbus.

The Greater Columbus Arts Council supports artists and arts organizations through a spectrum of grant programs, workshops, networking events and services. GCAC also shares a host of resources such as calls for artists, job opportunities, nonprofit board openings and listings of spaces for rent.

GCAC provides marketing services that support artists and organizations through the ColumbusMakesArt.com event calendar, Artist Directory, and Public Art Database. We also produce the annual Big Arts Night recognizing business and individual contributions to the community and the Columbus Arts Festival, the city’s welcome to summer event that takes place each June.

Columbus Motion Picture Incentive

Purpose

The Columbus Motion Picture Incentive (CMPI) fuels the growth of the film industry in Central Ohio by encouraging productions to hire local talent, utilize regional resources, and film within the area—all while supporting local filmmakers and strengthening the creative economy.

The Columbus Motion Picture Incentive (CMPI) is open to any production company, whether local or international, that spends a minimum of $150,000 in Franklin and surrounding counties.

Film Documentaries Media Arts +1 more

Pasco L. Schiavo Grants: Forum Grants

The Luzerne Foundation
Private
Carbon County, Pennsylvania, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania
US $10,000 - US $15,000
The Pasco L. Schiavo Grants, administered by The Luzerne Foundation, support nonprofit organizations in the Greater Hazleton and Weatherly areas. Established to enhance educational and humanitarian projects, the grants foster community engagement through the annual Pasco L. Schiavo Nonprofit Forum, where organizations present their missions and needs. These initiatives align with the Foundation's commitment to responsible philanthropy and addressing local needs, ensuring impactful contributions to the community's well-being.
Youth Services Economic Services & Development Health Care Access & Delivery +4 more

Arts & Social Cohesion Grant

Vermont Community Foundation
Private
Vermont
Up to US $12,000
The Arts & Social Cohesion Grant, funded by the Vermont Community Foundation, aims to enhance community belonging through diverse artistic projects. Grants up to $10,000 will support initiatives like mural projects, artist residencies, and public performances that foster collaboration and engagement. The program prioritizes projects that connect marginalized voices and create inclusive environments, encouraging social interaction and community cohesion. This grant is designed for nonprofits and community groups focused on impactful artistic endeavors.
Music Performing Arts Dance +4 more

Spartanburg County Foundation: Community Thanksgiving Grant

Spartanburg County Foundation
Private
Spartanburg County, South Carolina
Up to US $5,000
The Spartanburg County Foundation's Community Thanksgiving Grant fosters philanthropy and community engagement by supporting local nonprofits. Each year, a Thanksgiving service, hosted by various faith communities, collects donations that the Foundation matches up to $5,000. Eligible organizations must have annual budgets under $500,000 and serve specific areas, including family services and health. This initiative aims to enhance access to opportunities for underserved populations in Spartanburg County, ensuring direct benefits to local residents.
Food Access & Hunger Youth Services Family Services +2 more

Wayne Rush Scholarship

Montgomery County Community Foundation Inc.
Private
Montgomery County, Indiana, Tippecanoe County, Indiana
Unspecified amount
The Wayne Rush Scholarship, established in memory of Wayne Rush, supports North Montgomery High School graduates pursuing agriculture studies at Purdue University. This scholarship reflects Wayne's commitment to community service and agriculture, offering financial assistance to eligible students who demonstrate need. Priority is given to those involved in 4-H. The scholarship is available annually, contingent on funding, ensuring that future generations can benefit from Wayne's legacy of education and community engagement.
Academic Scholarship Programs Educational Access & Equity Education - Higher Education +3 more

Philip A. Morris Fund for the Design Arts

Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham
Private
Blount County, Alabama, Jefferson County, Alabama +2 more
US $5,000 - US $100,000
The Philip A. Morris Fund for the Design Arts, established by Philip Morris in 2015, aims to enhance community awareness of the design arts and their impact. This fund supports various design initiatives, including urban planning and architecture, through grants awarded annually. Eligible applicants, primarily nonprofit organizations serving specific Alabama counties, can request funding for new programs or operational support. The fund emphasizes community building and collaboration within the design arts sector in the Greater Birmingham area.
Design Urban Planning Architecture +1 more

Passion Grants

Lancaster County Community Foundation
Private
Lancaster County, Pennsylvania
US $7,500 - US $37,000
Passion Grants, funded by the Lancaster County Community Foundation, support diverse initiatives aimed at improving human services, environmental conservation, and promoting human rights. These grants cater to various community needs, including early childhood development and the arts, especially for underrepresented groups. The John J. Snyder Fund specifically focuses on preserving historical buildings. Through these grants, the foundation empowers local organizations to make a significant impact in Eastern Lancaster County.
Social Justice / Human Rights Environmental Education Basic Human Needs +6 more

Best Buddies Grant

Texas Education Agency
State/Local Government
Texas
Up to US $1,250,000

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Division of Governance Interventions supports TEA’s mission and vision by providing exceptional leadership, guidance, and support to school system leadership teams and governing boards. The division collaborates with external field support agents appointed by the TEA Commissioner of Education to build sustainable systems aligned to core TEA initiatives, so that the school system thrives after the release of agency intervention. 

Best Buddies Grant Program

Program Description

The purpose of the Best Buddies grant program is to provide support in creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, and leadership development for Texas middle school and high school students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Academic Success & Enrichment Education - Middle School Education - High School +2 more

Nancy Talbot Postdoctoral Research Fellowship

The American Occupational Therapy Foundation Inc
Private
United States
US $30,000
The Nancy Talbot Postdoctoral Research Fellowship, established by the American Occupational Therapy Foundation, offers $30,000 for one year to support postdoctoral research in occupational therapy. This fellowship aims to enhance diversity in the field by funding individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, as identified by the NSF. Eligible candidates must hold an OT degree or relevant doctorate, have a mentor, and conduct research at a U.S. academic institution.
Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Medical Education & Professional Training +4 more

Arnold F. Keller Jr. Grant for New Initiatives/ Program Expansion

Capitol Hill Community Foundation
Private
District of Columbia
Up to US $25,000
The Arnold F. Keller Jr. Grant, offered by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation, provides a single $25,000 grant annually to support new initiatives or the expansion of existing projects that benefit the Capitol Hill community. Since 1989, the Foundation has invested over $6.6 million into local projects, emphasizing community engagement and support for vulnerable populations. This grant aims to enhance community well-being through innovative programs and initiatives.
Education - Preschool / Early Learning Education - K through 12 Academic Success & Enrichment +6 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.

Last updated: November 2, 2026. Next update: December 6, 2026.

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.