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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

Program Grants ( Housing Insecurity Or Health Care)

Charlotte Community Foundation
Private
Charlotte County, Florida
US $10,000 - US $15,000
The Charlotte Community Foundation is launching a competitive grant cycle for Fall 2025, focusing on housing insecurity and health care. Through program grants, it aims to support nonprofit organizations in Charlotte County that provide essential services to reduce homelessness and improve health outcomes. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and align with CCF's mission. Special emphasis is placed on programs aiding children and youth experiencing homelessness, fostering a community-driven approach to philanthropy.
Equitable & Affordable Housing Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health Supportive Housing & Shelters +5 more

Peter Buck Postdoctoral Fellowship Program

Smithsonian Institution (SI)
Federal Government
District of Columbia
Up to US $144,000
The Peter Buck Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, established in 2011, offers multi-year fellowships for postdoctoral scholars to conduct independent research at the National Museum of Natural History (NMNH). Open to international applicants, it aims to enhance the scientific community by training future scientists and promoting innovative ideas. The fellowship includes a stipend of $62,000 annually, along with allowances for research, health insurance, and relocation. Applicants must have a recent PhD and be fluent in English.
Evolutionary Biology Paleontology History Of Science +14 more

The Daffodil Grant

Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation 091898
Private
Oregon
US $75,000 - US $250,000
The Daffodil Grant is a highly competitive grant program aimed at supporting impactful organizations in Oregon. With funding typically ranging from $100,000 to $125,000 per year, it provides opportunities for multi-year commitments. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as financial stability. This program prioritizes organizations aligned with its mission and values, ensuring meaningful investments in the community. Applications are assessed rigorously, with funding decisions expected within 3-4 months.
Art & Culture Architecture Education +10 more

Community Foundation Responsive Grants

Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland
Private
Washington County, Maryland
Unspecified amount
The Community Foundation of Washington County, MD offers Responsive Grants aimed at fostering collaboration among local nonprofits. The 2025 program prioritizes funding for initiatives that involve at least two partnering organizations to address community needs. Applicants must be based in Washington County and hold a valid 501(c)(3) status. This year's focus is on collaborative programs that demonstrate urgency, innovation, impact, and sustainability, encouraging nonprofits to work together for the greater good.
Youth Development & Leadership Family Services Education +9 more

The Capital Fund

Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation 091898
Private
Oregon
US $10,000 - US $35,000
The Capital Fund is an innovative grant program aimed at supporting capital campaigns for renovations or new projects. Offering competitive contributions ranging from $15,000 to $50,000, it prioritizes applicants with a proven track record of completed grants and projects located in Oregon. The fund encourages organizations to showcase their commitment to diversity and inclusion while also addressing pressing community needs. As this program evolves, it aims to better serve its partners and adapt to the changing landscape of funding.
Architecture Supportive Housing & Shelters Sports & Athletics +10 more

Amboy Foundation Grant

Amboy Bank
Corporate
Middlesex County, New Jersey, Monmouth County, New Jersey
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Amboy Foundation Grant provides funding to tax-exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. With a minimum grant amount of $1,000 and a maximum typically not exceeding $10,000, the foundation supports community development, educational programs, and social welfare initiatives. Eligible organizations include those aiding low to moderate income populations and higher educational institutions focused on business programs. Applications are accepted year-round, with quarterly deadlines for review.
Supportive Housing & Shelters Equitable & Affordable Housing Human & Social Services +5 more

Biennial Research Competition

Hawai‘i Sea Grant
Association/Society
Hawaii
Up to US $100,000
Hawai‘i Sea Grant, part of a national network established in 1966, promotes the understanding and stewardship of marine and coastal resources through applied research, outreach, and education. The upcoming Biennial Research Competition focuses on critical research tracks including Island Sustainability and Resilience, Ocean Acidification, and Aquaculture. By supporting multidisciplinary initiatives, Hawai‘i Sea Grant aims to address pressing public concerns and disseminate valuable information across Hawai‘i and the Pacific.
Environmental Education Fisheries Aquaculture +3 more

Clowes Fund: Indianapolis

Clowes Fund
Private
Marion County, Indiana
Up to US $150,000
The Clowes Fund, based in Indianapolis, provides grants focusing on socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals through Immigrant Services and Workforce Development. The fund offers two types of grants: Introductory Grants for organizations with smaller budgets aimed at immigrant and workforce initiatives, and Continuation Grants for established programs. The application process includes an initial Letter of Inquiry, and funding is primarily directed towards addressing barriers faced by immigrants and supporting community economic participation.
Immigrant Services Youth Development & Leadership Vocational & Trade Education +7 more

IDEA+ Workshop Award

International Association for Great Lakes Research
Association/Society
Canada
US $2,000
The IDEA+ Workshop Award, provided by the International Association for Great Lakes Research, seeks to enhance diversity at the annual Conference on Great Lakes Research by supporting workshop hosts from historically marginalized communities. Each award offers up to $2,000, free conference registration, and a complimentary IAGLR membership. This initiative aims to enrich the dialogue surrounding large lake science and related fields, fostering inclusive participation and collaboration.
Limnology Freshwater Conservation Diversity, Equity & Inclusion +4 more

Kaiser Permanente: Washington Region - Sponsorships

Kaiser Foundation Health Plan Inc
Corporate
Benton County, Washington, Columbia County, Washington +14 more
Unspecified amount
Kaiser Permanente's Washington Region offers sponsorships to nonprofit organizations, schools, and government agencies that align with its mission to improve community health. With a focus on sustainability, equity, and relationship-building, the program evaluates proposals based on their potential to create lasting value and positive exposure. Ineligible requests include support for religious activities, political campaigns, or individual medical funding, ensuring that resources are directed towards community-driven initiatives that enhance public health.
Health Care Access & Delivery Health Insurance Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health +7 more

Operations and Program Grant

Quad Cities Community Foundation
Private
Rock Island County, Illinois, Scott County, Iowa
US $5,000 - US $20,000
The Operations and Program Grant by the Quad Cities Community Foundation provides essential operating and program support to nonprofits, enhancing their long-term sustainability. Eligible organizations must be located in specific counties in Illinois and Iowa, with a focus on diverse fields such as health, education, and community development. This grant favors applications for general operating support and those from successful existing programs. Grant amounts range from $5,000 to $20,000, allowing for flexible funding options.
Animal Welfare - General Wellness & Healthy Living Child Welfare Services +13 more

Breakfast Exchange Club Foundation Grant

Breakfast Exchange Club of Billings
Private
Yellowstone County, Montana
US $100 - US $7,500
The Breakfast Exchange Club Foundation Grant supports local 501(c)(3) non-profits with funding ranging from $100 to $7,500, primarily aiming to assist community projects that align with their priorities. The club evaluates requests based on impact, innovation, and the absence of duplication with existing programs. Their funding history includes support for various initiatives, including sports programs and educational scholarships. Applications are accepted quarterly, with one submission allowed per organization each fiscal year.
Children With Disabilities Sports & Athletics Drug Use Disorder +6 more

Specialty Grants- Gilmore Inclusive Arts Grant

WindSwell Foundation
Private
Adams County, Indiana, Allen County, Indiana +9 more
Up to US $25,000
The Gilmore Inclusive Arts Grant supports projects that engage individuals with disabilities in Northeast Indiana's arts communities. Annually, applications open in May and close in September, with funding up to $25,000. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) compliant, and priority is given to impactful projects. Collaboration is encouraged, ensuring diverse participation in the arts. This grant aims to foster inclusivity and enhance the cultural landscape by empowering individuals with disabilities.
Intellectual / Developmental Disabilities Physical Disabilities Cerebral Palsy +3 more

High Priority HIV and Substance Use Research (RM1 Clinical Trial Optional)

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Up to US $1,500,000
The High Priority HIV and Substance Use Research funding opportunity aims to support innovative research that addresses the intersection of HIV and substance use. Researchers are encouraged to submit proposals that include a detailed research plan and preliminary data, exploring new avenues for prevention, treatment, and potential cures for HIV among people who use drugs. Applications are due by 5 PM local time, with optional Letters of Intent recommended 30 days prior.
HIV / AIDS Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Drug Use Disorder

GA Agricultural Conservation Easement Program Georgia (ACEP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
Federal Government
Georgia (US state)
Unspecified amount
The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) aims to safeguard agricultural viability by limiting nonagricultural use of eligible lands, promoting conservation values. It includes Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) for protecting croplands and Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) for restoring degraded wetlands. ACEP also features the Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP) to foster collaboration for enhanced wetland conservation. This program is a vital resource for landowners and supports sustainable agricultural practices.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Land / Habitat Conservation Agriculture +4 more

Pacific Islands Indigenous Science Competition

Hawai‘i Sea Grant
Association/Society
Hawaii
US $10,000 - US $25,000
The 2025 Pacific Islands Indigenous Science Competition, hosted by Hawai‘i Sea Grant, invites proposals that center Indigenous methodologies for co-managing coastal and marine resources. With funding available between $25,000 and $50,000 for 3 to 6 selected projects, the initiative aims to enhance resource stewardship, community governance, and cultural practices. This opportunity encourages research that integrates Indigenous knowledge and ecological concerns, fostering collaborations that promote resilient communities across the U.S.-Affiliated Pacific Islands.
Native American Culture & Heritage Environmental Education Fisheries +3 more

Behavioral Health FY27 - Level 3 Low Intensity Residential Services Program (PPWMDC)

Mississippi Department of Mental Health
State/Local Government
Mississippi
Unspecified amount

About Us

The governing board of the Mississippi Department of Mental Health is composed of nine members appointed by the Governor of Mississippi and confirmed by the State Senate. Members’ terms are staggered to ensure continuity of quality care and professional oversight of services. By statute, the nine-member board is composed of a physician, a psychiatrist, a clinical psychologist, a social worker with experience in the field of mental health, and one citizen representative from each of Mississippi’s five congressional districts (as existed in 1974).

Behavioral Health FY27 - Level 3 Low Intensity Residential Services Program (PPWMDC)

Residential Services is the highest community-based level of care for the treatment of substance use/addictive disorders. These levels of care provide a safe and stable group living environment where the individual can develop, practice, and demonstrate necessary recovery skills.

Collectively, all level 3 (3.1, 3.3, 3.5, and 3.7) program services provide residential care and comprehensive treatment services for adults and adolescents whose problems are so severe or are such that they cannot be cared for at home or in foster care and need the exclusive services provided by specialized facilities. Comprehensive services and activities may include diagnosis and psychological evaluation; alcohol and drug withdrawal management (detoxification) services; individual, family, and group therapy/ counseling; remedial education and GED preparation, vocational or pre-vocational training; training in activities of daily living; supervised recreational and social activities; case management; transportation; and referral to utilization of other services. 

  • Level 3.1 Clinically Managed Low-Intensity Residential Services
  • Level 3.3 Clinically Managed Population-Specific High-Intensity Residential Services
  • Level 3.5 Clinically Managed High-Intensity Residential Services
  • Level 3.7 Medically Monitored Intensive Inpatient Services
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Maternal And Perinatal Health Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases +2 more

Benwood Foundation Grants

Benwood Foundation Inc.
Private
Hamilton County, Tennessee
Unspecified amount
The Benwood Foundation Grants focus on fostering shared prosperity in Chattanooga by partnering with diverse stakeholders. They prioritize inclusive growth, particularly for Black and Latinx communities, and support initiatives in urban vitality, talent, economic opportunity, leadership engagement, and cultural belonging. The foundation is committed to creating equitable pathways to success and addressing systemic barriers. Proposals are invited from strategic partners aligned with these goals, emphasizing collaboration for greater community impact.
Community Culture & Heritage Community Development & Revitalization Parks & Public Spaces +9 more

SD Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of South Dakota
Federal Government
South Dakota
Unspecified amount
The SD Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) aims to protect agricultural viability and conservation values by restricting non-agricultural land uses. It includes Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) that assist landowners in preserving croplands and grasslands, and Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) which focus on restoring degraded wetlands. The program also offers the Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP) to enhance wetland protection efforts in collaboration with eligible partners.
Agriculture Livestock & Ranching Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration +4 more

VT Agricultural Management Assistance

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Vermont
Federal Government
Vermont
Up to US $50,000
The Vermont Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) program offers vital support to agricultural producers, helping them manage financial risks through various practices such as diversification and resource conservation. Administered by NRCS, AMA provides up to 75% cost assistance for conservation practices, with total payments capped at $50,000 per participant annually. Eligibility requires producers to be involved in agricultural production and comply with specific land requirements, ensuring sustainable farming practices across Vermont.
Agriculture Livestock & Ranching Water Resource Management +3 more

SC Agricultural Conservation Easement Program

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of South Carolina
Federal Government
South Carolina
Unspecified amount
The SC Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) supports landowners in protecting agricultural viability and conservation values by limiting non-agricultural land uses. It features two main components: Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) that safeguard croplands and grasslands, and Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) for restoring degraded wetlands. Additionally, the program includes the Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP) to enhance wetland protection efforts, ensuring sustainable agricultural practices and improved wildlife habitats.
Agriculture Livestock & Ranching Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration +4 more

Greater Rochester Community Health Foundation - Small Grants

New Hampshire Charitable Foundation
Private
Strafford County, New Hampshire
Up to US $10,000
The Greater Rochester Community Health Foundation offers a Small Grants Program aimed at improving access to care for residents of Strafford County, New Hampshire. Nonprofit organizations can apply for up to $10,000 in general operating support for initiatives addressing challenges like substance use disorder, food security, and maternal health. This program prioritizes collaborative projects and is nonrenewable, providing funding for one year.
Health Care Access & Delivery Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Addiction & Substance Use Disorders +4 more

NV Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Nevada
Federal Government
Nevada
Unspecified amount
The NV Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) aims to enhance agricultural viability and conservation values by limiting non-agricultural uses of eligible land. It includes Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) to protect croplands and Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) to restore wetlands. This program supports landowners in preserving their land's agricultural integrity while promoting wildlife habitat through partnerships. Applications are accepted year-round, with future funding cycles available for late applicants.
Agriculture Livestock & Ranching Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration +4 more

Open Your Heart to the Hungry and Homeless: Community Impact Grant

Open Your Hearts To The Hungry And Homeless
Private
Minnesota
Approximately US $7,000
Open Your Heart to the Hungry and Homeless offers the Community Impact Grant aimed at supporting organizations that assist individuals and families facing food and housing insecurity in Minnesota. The grant focuses on providing necessary tools and infrastructure to crisis service providers, particularly those helping the homeless. Agencies with 501(c)3 status located in Minnesota are eligible to apply, ensuring that resources are effectively directed to those in immediate need.
Basic Human Needs Homelessness Services Food Access & Hunger +3 more

NE Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Nebraska
Federal Government
Nebraska
Unspecified amount
The NE Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) aims to protect agricultural viability by limiting nonagricultural land uses and enhancing conservation values. It includes Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) to safeguard croplands and Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) for wetland restoration. Through partnerships, USDA's ACEP facilitates high-priority wetland protection and wildlife habitat improvement. Applications are accepted year-round, with automatic consideration for future funding cycles after ranking dates.
Agriculture Livestock & Ranching Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration +4 more

ME Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Maine
Federal Government
Maine
Unspecified amount
The ME Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) supports the preservation of agricultural land by limiting nonagricultural uses and enhancing conservation values. It offers two components: Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) and Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE). ALE helps protect croplands and grasslands on working farms, while WRE focuses on restoring degraded wetlands. Additionally, the program includes the Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP) to improve wildlife habitat through collaborative efforts.
Agriculture Livestock & Ranching Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration +4 more

Adaptive Control Frameworks to Unlock Full-Scale BNR Potential RFP

Water Research Foundation
Private
Countries
Up to US $300,000

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5424 - Adaptive Control Frameworks to Unlock Full-Scale BNR Potential

Grant Information

  • Identify and categorize the dominant failure modes of current aeration and process control implementations under real-world operating conditions.
  • Develop guidance on data and instrumentation requirements for utilities to support adaptive control, including the characterization of existing sensor infrastructure and the use of soft sensors where hard sensors are limited.
  • Develop practical adaptive control frameworks and implementation guidance that utilities can deploy without dependence on proprietary black-box tools or specialized data science expertise, including hybrid approaches that augment conventional controls with data-driven models (e.g., artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML), digital twins) for variable flow and concentration conditions.
  • Benchmark control performance against biological capacity indicators across multiple full-scale facilities to quantify the gap between achievable and realized biological nutrient removal (BNR) performance.
Water Resource Management Carbon / Greenhouse Gas Reduction Hydrology

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.

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