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Best Grants for 501(c)(3)

Explore grants specifically for 501(c)(3) nonprofits supporting diverse missions in education, health, environment, and social justice.

32,000+

Available grants

$8.25B

Total funding

$6K

Median grant

32,000+ grants
$8.25B total
$6K median

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32,483 Results based on applied filters

Mighty Money Mini Grants

WindSwell Foundation
Private
Adams County, Indiana, Allen County, Indiana +9 more
Up to US $5,000
The Mighty Money Mini Grant from the AWS Foundation aims to empower individuals with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities in Northeast Indiana. By providing quick funding to 501(c)(3) organizations, this initiative supports innovative ideas that enhance community inclusion, education, and accessibility. The grant focuses on initiatives such as social enrichment, education, transportation, early diagnosis, and housing, ensuring that these individuals can live independently and thrive within their communities.
Autism Down Syndrome Intellectual / Developmental Disabilities +5 more

Ordinance Development Projects

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
Up to US $50,000
The Ordinance Development Projects grant, offered by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, supports the creation of local regulations aimed at benefiting surface water. Eligible activities include ordinance text development, legal work, compliance training, and outreach efforts. Applicants must submit a pre-application by September 15 and a full proposal by November 15, along with a letter of support from the implementing government unit, promoting sustainable management of Wisconsin's natural resources.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management +1 more

Fund for Women & Girls Grant

Princeton Area Community Foundation
Private
Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Burlington County, New Jersey +4 more
Up to US $25,000
The Fund for Women & Girls Grant aims to empower economically vulnerable women and girls in greater Mercer County through community investment and education. By supporting diverse projects such as early childhood education, mental health services, and workforce development, the grant fosters a collaborative environment for nonprofits. Eligible organizations must possess tax-exempt status and operate within specified geographical areas, ensuring targeted assistance. This initiative reflects a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, enhancing the quality of life for those in need.
Women & Girl Services Parenting Counseling & Education Education - Preschool / Early Learning +6 more

William F. Thiel Grants

Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo
Private
Wyoming County, New York
Unspecified amount
The William F. Thiel Grants, established by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, honor the legacy of philanthropist William F. Thiel, focusing on healthcare needs in Wyoming County. Grants prioritize access to health services, chronic disease management, emergency aid for low-income residents, food security, mental health support, and transportation. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and operate in Wyoming County, ensuring a singular competitive grant at any time.
Health Care Access & Delivery Chronic Illnesses Emergency Medical Care & Services +6 more

Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy Proposition 4 Nature Based Solutions and Climate Adaptation Grant Program

California Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy
State/Local Government
California
Unspecified amount
The Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy Proposition 4 Grant Program aims to enhance climate resilience through nature-based solutions in conservation lands. It supports projects focused on habitat restoration, wildfire risk reduction, and improving public access to outdoor recreation. Priority is given to initiatives benefiting disadvantaged communities and those that align with California's 30x30 conservation goals. Funding is provided through the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024.
Environmental Conservation Natural Resources Fire Ecology +2 more

Small Communities Planning Grants for Stormwater, Wastewater, and Community Resilience RFP

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $1,100,000
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency is offering $1.1 million in Small Communities Planning Grants to support climate planning projects in communities with populations under 10,000. This initiative aims to enhance resilience against stormwater issues, improve wastewater systems, and adapt community services to changing climate conditions. By partnering with local governments, the MPCA is addressing the urgent impacts of climate change through innovative, community-centered approaches.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Environmental Contamination & Pollution Water Resource Management +3 more

Planning Grants for Stormwater, Wastewater, and Community Resilience RFP

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
State/Local Government
Minnesota
US $1,600,000
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is offering $1.6 million in planning grants for climate resilience projects across Minnesota. These funds aim to help communities assess vulnerabilities related to stormwater management, wastewater systems, and public services in the face of climate change. This initiative supports local efforts to enhance resilience, reduce flood risks, and adapt to changing environmental conditions, ensuring healthier communities and sustainable natural resources.
Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Environmental Contamination & Pollution Water Resource Management +3 more

Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants

Bell's Brewery, Inc.
Corporate
District of Columbia, United States
US $500 - US $5,000
Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants support projects focusing on water stewardship across the Great Lakes watershed. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, eligible organizations can apply for funding to improve ecosystem health, enhance public health through better water resource management, and promote resilience against climate-related water risks. This initiative highlights Bell's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support in all 50 states and DC.
Water Resource Management Environmental Stewardship Climate Change Resilience & Equity +3 more

Healthy Lives: Health and Behavioral Health / Older Adults and People with Disabilities Grant Program

The New York Community Trust
Private
Bronx County, New York, Kings County, New York +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Healthy Lives Grant Program by The New York Community Trust aims to enhance health services for older adults and individuals with disabilities in New York City. It focuses on creating an equitable healthcare system by supporting projects that improve access to care, reduce health disparities, and empower individuals through skill development. The program prioritizes innovative solutions that foster independence and community engagement, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive comprehensive support tailored to their needs.
Health Care Access & Delivery Preventative Healthcare Environmental Health +10 more

Surface Water Grants: AIS Population Management - Large-Scale

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
Up to US $150,000

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

Aquatic Invasive Species Control – Large or Small-Scale Population Management

(See page 31 of attatched PDF)

When an established population of aquatic invasive species is having adverse effects on a waterbody or wetland, funding is available for control activities. Managing aquatic invasive species can be challenging, but adaptive and integrated pest management can help. Participation in the large- or small-scale control program requires an approved recommendation in an aquatic plant or aquatic invasive species management plan. Eligible projects will implement one or more of the resulting recommendations. Public access required, unless controlling a prohibited species.

DNR cost share: Grants may cover up to 75% of total project costs.

The AIS Population Management Grant includes Small-Scale Population Management Projects and Large-Scale Population Management Projects.

Large-Scale Population Management Projects

Large-Scale Population Management projects will result in long-term, multi-season suppression of one or more established populations of aquatic invasive species. Projects are large in scale, affecting a substantial portion of a lake, stream reach, or wetland.

Projects that address multiple populations across a region should employ a strategic approach to managing multiple populations, prioritizing control actions in a way that ensures wise spending of grant funds. For example, a regional wetland control project might focus on populations that threaten high-functioning natural wetlands or focus on small, more easily controlled populations. For Phragmites-focused projects seeking AIS planning and control grant funds, please see the Phragmites Statewide Management Strategy for more specific guidance.

Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management +1 more

Surface Water Grants: AIS Population Management - Small-Scale

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
State/Local Government
Wisconsin
Up to US $50,000

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

Aquatic Invasive Species Control – Large or Small-Scale Population Management

(See page 31 of attatched PDF)

When an established population of aquatic invasive species is having adverse effects on a waterbody or wetland, funding is available for control activities. Managing aquatic invasive species can be challenging, but adaptive and integrated pest management can help. Participation in the large- or small-scale control program requires an approved recommendation in an aquatic plant or aquatic invasive species management plan. Eligible projects will implement one or more of the resulting recommendations. Public access required, unless controlling a prohibited species.

DNR cost share: Grants may cover up to 75% of total project costs.

The AIS Population Management Grant includes Small-Scale Population Management Projects and Large-Scale Population Management Projects.

Small-Scale Population Management Projects

Small-Scale Population Management projects will maintain a low abundance of one or more aquatic invasive species populations or further reduce their size. Projects should implement management activities with the goal of continued suppression of the target species where the actions are unlikely to affect the entire lake, stream reach or wetland. Projects should be designed to result in long-term, multi-season suppression of one or more established populations of the target species.

Invasive Species Control Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Freshwater Conservation +1 more

MHUW Strategic Investment Grants

Mile High United Way
Private
Adams County, Colorado, Arapahoe County, Colorado +5 more
US $10,000 - US $200,000
The MHUW Strategic Investment Grants support nonprofit organizations in the seven-county Metro Denver area, focusing on basic needs, early childhood education, and out-of-school programming. These grants aim to empower organizations that align with the Mile High United Way's mission to foster community well-being and economic stability. This competitive grantmaking process emphasizes collaboration and community-driven solutions to address critical human service issues, ensuring every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
Education - Preschool / Early Learning After School / Summer Educational Programs Legal Services +9 more

Innovative Technology for Harmful Algal Blooms Grant

Florida Department of Environmental Protection
State/Local Government
Florida
Unspecified amount
The Innovative Technology for Harmful Algal Blooms Grant supports local governments and nonprofit organizations in Florida to implement innovative solutions for combating harmful algal blooms. Projects may focus on nutrient reduction, algae removal, or improving monitoring techniques. Key funding considerations include the scalability of technology and its environmental safety. Eligible areas are those with a history of algal blooms and a management action plan in place, ensuring the greatest impact on water quality.
Phycology Invasive Species Control Freshwater Conservation +1 more

The Service Club Alliance Grant (Midland Lions Club)

Midland Area Community Foundation
Private
Midland County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Service Club Alliance Grant, offered by the Midland Lions Club, focuses on addressing critical needs in the Midland community through collaborative efforts of local service clubs. This grant supports various causes including vision, hunger, and humanitarian efforts, ensuring resources are allocated effectively. By streamlining the application process, the Alliance encourages community organizations to seek funding for impactful projects. The Midland Area Community Foundation facilitates this partnership without making grant decisions, empowering local service initiatives.
Vision Impairment Care & Services Food Access & Hunger Cancer / Oncology +10 more

Conservation Partners Grant Program

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)
Private
Arizona, Arkansas +26 more
US $250,000 - US $750,000
The Conservation Partners Grant Program, funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, supports private landowners in implementing regenerative agriculture and conservation practices. By awarding competitive grants, the program facilitates technical assistance for developing management plans and best practices, enabling landowners to maximize the ecological benefits of their lands. This initiative is crucial for enhancing fish and wildlife habitats, addressing pressing conservation issues, and promoting sustainable land stewardship across the United States.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Limnology Freshwater Conservation +6 more

Watershed Protection Plan Implementation Grants (TX)

Texas A&M Forest Service
State/Local Government
Texas
US $50,000
The Watershed Protection Plan Implementation Grants (TX) provide funding for local initiatives aimed at enhancing water quality through tree and forestry components. With a total of fifteen grants, each valued at $50,000, this program targets disadvantaged communities and prioritized watersheds. By leveraging partnerships among local governments, water utilities, and NGOs, it promotes nature-based solutions that not only improve environmental health but also increase equitable access to urban green spaces.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management +1 more

BMS Corporate Giving

Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
Bristol Myers Squibb is dedicated to enhancing healthcare and advancing scientific knowledge through its Corporate Giving program. By supporting various organizations, BMS aims to improve health equity and access to essential medicines for underserved populations. Their focus includes charitable donations, medical education, and community support initiatives. This commitment reflects BMS's goal to make a positive impact on patients' lives and foster strong communities where their employees work and live.
HIV / AIDS Cancer / Oncology Cardiovascular Diseases & Systems +5 more

The NAACP X Society Awards Scholarship

National Association For The Advancement Of Colored People
Private
United States
US $1,000 - US $5,000

The NAACP X Society Awards Scholarship

The NAACP x Society Awards Scholarship is one of many funding opportunities available to students through NAACP's Inspire Initiatives. We offer scholarships to outstanding and qualified students pursuing undergraduate degrees. Through the generosity of our donors, we advance efforts to ensure equity in educational opportunity that prepares students for success in school, work, and life.

Scholarship amount: $1,000 to $5,000

This is a non-renewable scholarship opportunity.

Performing Arts Theater Dance +9 more

RFP-2027-DPH-07-PROCD: Chronic Disease Prevention and Wellness Programs

New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services
State/Local Government
New Hampshire
Unspecified amount

Department of Health and Human Services

DHHS is the largest agency in New Hampshire state government, responsible for the health, safety and well-being of the citizens of New Hampshire. DHHS provides services for individuals, children, families and seniors, and administers programs and services such as mental health, developmental disability, substance misuse, and public health. This is accomplished through partnerships with families, community groups, private providers, other state and local government entities, and many citizens throughout the State who help make New Hampshire a special place in which to live.

RFP-2027-DPH-07-PROCD: Chronic Disease Prevention and Wellness Programs

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health (“Department”) is seeking responses to this Request for Proposals ("Solicitation" or "RFP") from qualified Vendors to provide comprehensive chronic disease and rural health program support, including coordination of projects and partner activities, development and delivery of educational trainings, implementation of evidence-based strategies, evaluation support, and communication activities that promote the prevention and management of chronic disease including asthma, cancer, diabetes, prediabetes, hypertension, and arthritis.

Chronic Illnesses Rural Health Care Preventative Healthcare +5 more

Episcopal Health Foundation Grant

Episcopal Health Foundation
Private
Anderson County, Texas, Angelina County, Texas +78 more
Unspecified amount
The Episcopal Health Foundation Grant invites existing and new partners to apply for funding opportunities from January to May 2026, focusing on three key Impact Drivers. This initiative is part of the Strategic Framework 2025-2030, aimed at improving health systems and removing barriers for Texans. The application process for Cycle 2 will commence in June 2026, with updates on funding priorities expected in Spring 2026.
Children’s Health & Pediatrics Maternal And Perinatal Health Diabetes +8 more

California Rural Health Transformation Program (CalRHT) Initiative One (1): Transformative Care Model Accelerator Partner RFA

California Department of Health Care Access and Information
State/Local Government
California
Up to US $8,000,000

Transformative Care Model

Accelerator Partners (Now Open)

The Accelerator Partner Program is proposed as support for hospitals or other organizations in rural regions that demonstrate strong readiness and commitment to implement the CalRHT Transformative Care Model (TCM) through regional care collaboratives and hub-and-spoke relationships which will seek to strengthen primary and maternity care in rural parts of the state.  

Accelerator Partners will strengthen TCM performance metrics in their service areas while serving as testing sites for innovative care models and evidence-based approaches. Accelerator Partners will demonstrate how integrated service delivery can strengthen access, quality, and sustainability in rural communities.

Lessons learned from these Accelerator Partners will inform statewide scaling and continuous improvement of the regional care collaboratives and hub-and-spoke framework in future years.

Rural Health Care Maternal And Perinatal Health Cardiovascular Diseases & Systems +6 more

Scott County Regional Authority Grants

Scott County Regional Authority
Private
Scott County, Iowa
Unspecified amount
The Scott County Regional Authority (SCRA) provides grants to non-profit organizations and educational institutions in Scott County, Iowa, primarily funded by gaming receipts from the Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf. These grants support a wide array of services, including arts, education, and social services. The application cycles occur in April and October, with specific eligibility requirements for applicants. Since 1991, SCRA has awarded over $101 million to various community initiatives.
Art & Culture First Responders Disability Care & Services +17 more

Andersen Corporate Foundation Grants

Andersen Corporate Foundation
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Chisago County, Minnesota +11 more
US $5,000 - US $50,000
The Andersen Corporate Foundation, established in 1941, aims to enhance lives and strengthen communities where its employees reside. It has contributed over $65 million to various causes, focusing on housing, healthcare, hunger relief, and education. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, primarily supporting nonprofit organizations that align with these areas, particularly in communities where Andersen operates, ensuring a lasting impact on local initiatives.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Health Facilities & Clinics Equitable & Affordable Housing +7 more

Puget Sound Stewardship and Mitigation Fund Grant

Rose Foundation For Communities And The Environment
Private
Island County, Washington, King County, Washington +8 more
Up to US $40,000
The Puget Sound Stewardship and Mitigation Fund Grant aims to enhance water quality in Puget Sound through community-based projects. Funded by the Rose Foundation, the grant supports 501(c)3 organizations and governmental entities focusing on pollution mitigation, conservation, and education. Grants typically span one year with a maximum of $40,000. The foundation prefers locally-led initiatives and encourages applications from environmental justice organizations to foster equity in project implementation.
Green Infrastructure Water Resource Management Marine / Ocean Conservation +3 more

TX AmeriCorps Planning Grant

The Onestar Foundation
Private
Texas
Up to US $100,000
The TX AmeriCorps Planning Grant, managed by OneStar, aims to address Texas's social challenges through national service. Engaging over 3,200 AmeriCorps members across 33 organizations, it focuses on disaster services, economic opportunity, education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, and support for veterans. This initiative enhances community resilience, improves lives, and fosters civic engagement by directing resources effectively to those in need, contributing to a stronger, more interconnected Texas.
Aging / Gerontology Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health Epidemiology & Public Health +12 more

Medical Research Grants- Resubmission Grants

The Rhode Island Community Foundation
Private
Rhode Island
Up to US $25,000
The Medical Research Grants program offers funding of up to $25,000 for Resubmission Grants aimed at enhancing NIH proposals that were previously scored in the top 50% but not funded. These grants support various research areas, including infectious diseases and cancer, and are particularly focused on junior faculty within Rhode Island's academic and hospital institutions. The funding can cover costs such as data gathering and equipment, but not salary support.
Cancer / Oncology Cardiovascular Diseases & Systems Musculoskeletal Diseases +5 more

NHLBI Career Transition Award for Intramural Postdoctoral Fellows and Research Trainees (K22 Independent Clinical Trial Not Allowed) (355395)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The NHLBI Career Transition Award (K22) supports postdoctoral fellows and research trainees in the NHLBI Division of Intramural Research, facilitating their transition to independent research roles at extramural institutions. Key deadlines for applications include October 12, 2024, and February 12, 2025, among others, providing ample opportunity for qualified investigators to advance their careers.
Cell Biology Molecular Biology Biochemistry +11 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 $3.43B available. Instrumentl streamlines the grant search process for nonprofits, offering tools for deadline tracking, customized searches, and access to funder insights.

Last updated: October 5, 2026. Next update: November 1, 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

1,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Environment

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Food Access & Hunger

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
29.8%
Q2
23.8%
Q3
23.9%
Q4
22.6%

Typical Funding Amounts

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

Grants are most commonly $34,887.

$0 $0 Min.
$34,887 $34.9 K Median
$655,609 $655.6 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 29.8% 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 $34,887, while the average grant awarded is $655,609. 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.