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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

Brownson Memorial Fund Grants

Western Colorado Community Foundation
Private
Mesa County, Colorado
Unspecified amount
The Brownson Memorial Fund Grants, established in 1985, have provided over $520,000 to nonprofit organizations in Mesa County, Colorado, focusing on substance abuse prevention and treatment. Affiliated with the Western Colorado Community Foundation since 2004, these grants support local initiatives aimed at improving community health and safety. Organizations must have IRS Tax Exempt status and comply with Colorado's Charitable Solicitations Law to be eligible for funding.
Addiction & Substance Use Disorders Alcoholism Drug Use Disorder

BMS Independent Medical Education Requests

Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation Inc supports independent medical education to enhance healthcare professional competence and improve patient health outcomes. Their mission is to be a global leader in innovative medical education, focusing on evidence-based activities that address critical gaps in knowledge. By fostering excellence in healthcare, they aim to ensure measurable improvements in performance and patient outcomes across various disease areas.
Cancer / Oncology Cardiovascular Diseases & Systems Neurological Diseases & Disorders +7 more

Dubs Foundation: Responsive Grants Program

Arthur R Dubs Foundation
Private
Oregon
More than US $1,000
The Dubs Foundation's Responsive Grants Program aims to empower youth and promote healthy families through innovative projects in Southern Oregon and Northern California. Established in 1996, the foundation prioritizes rural organizations that foster an active outdoor lifestyle and support veterans' reintegration. With a focus on community improvement, the foundation encourages partnerships with nonprofits to enhance access to basic needs and inspire a love of wilderness areas. Applicants should review fluid guidelines regularly as the foundation prepares for its 20th anniversary.
Christianity Land / Habitat Conservation Parks & Public Spaces +7 more

Community Response Fund Grant

Northwest Fund for the Environment (NWFE)
Private
Washington
US $1,000 - US $5,000
The Community Response Fund Grant by the Northwest Fund for the Environment supports local organizations addressing urgent community needs. It focuses on grassroots engagement and environmental movement building, providing short-term funding for projects that empower under-resourced communities and enhance environmental advocacy. The grant aims to promote smart growth policies and protect Washington's aquatic ecosystems by funding initiatives that advance sustainable practices and resilience against climate change. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with a clear project plan.
Urban Planning Marine / Ocean Conservation Freshwater Conservation +2 more

Champlin Foundation Traditional Capital Requests

The Champlin Foundation
Private
Rhode Island
Unspecified amount
The Champlin Foundation, a private funder established in 1932, has allocated over $705 million to support Rhode Island's nonprofit organizations through capital grants. Focusing on diverse sectors such as Arts, Education, and Healthcare, the Foundation aims to enhance the stability and growth of these organizations by funding essential equipment and facility needs. This targeted support is vital for long-term sustainability, addressing various community needs while prioritizing equity and inclusion in its grantmaking processes.
Animal Welfare - General Art & Culture Outdoor Recreation +10 more

Community Benefit Initiative Reinvestment (CBIR) Grant - New Ideas Projects

Eastern Oregon Coordinated Care Organization
Corporate
Baker County, Oregon, Gilliam County, Oregon +10 more
Up to US $50,000
The Community Benefit Initiative Reinvestment (CBIR) Grant supports innovative projects aimed at improving healthcare access for EOCCO members. Grants of up to $50,000 fund one-year initiatives that foster collaborations, enhance telehealth, and address health disparities. Eligible organizations include healthcare providers and community groups in Eastern Oregon. Successful projects may inspire replication in other regions, ultimately benefiting underserved populations and improving health outcomes across the service area.
Health Care Access & Delivery Epidemiology & Public Health Addiction & Substance Use Disorders +5 more

APAC: Apache Corporation Tree Grant Program

APA Corporation
Corporate
Louisiana, Texas
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
The Apache Corporation Tree Grant Program is dedicated to large-scale conservation efforts by providing trees to nonprofit organizations and government agencies in the U.S. Since 2005, it has donated over 5 million trees, enhancing public greenspaces and supporting wildlife habitats. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or government entities based in states where Apache operates. This initiative not only beautifies communities but also plays a vital role in environmental stewardship.
Environmental Stewardship Greening & Beautification Land / Habitat Conservation +2 more

Community Partnership Grants: Jazz & Heritage In-School Education Programs in Music, Arts, and Cultural Traditions

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation
Private
Louisiana
Up to US $7,500
The Community Partnership Grants by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation support music and arts education in Louisiana's K-12 schools. Grants of up to $7,500 are available for instruments, supplies, and instruction. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and local nonprofits. The program aims to enhance cultural traditions and foster artistic expression, continuing a legacy of over $13.5 million in funding for community projects since 1979.
Music Education Art Education Music +8 more

Corning Nonprofit Grants (also called Direct Grant)

Corning Incorporated Community Impact & Investment Philanthropy
Corporate
Alameda County, California, Alexander County, North Carolina +100 more
Unspecified amount
The Corning Nonprofit Grants program supports community-based initiatives in education, human services, and culture. Eligible nonprofits that align with our criteria may apply for funding on a rolling basis. The application window for invited organizations runs from February 10 to September 15. We emphasize local impact within a 20-mile radius of Corning, NY, ensuring that our contributions foster collective growth and engagement in the community.
Art & Culture Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Art Education +10 more

RiverSmart Homes Landscaping Installation Program

District of Columbia Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE)
State/Local Government
District of Columbia
Up to US $2,170,000

Who We Are

The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is the leading authority on energy and environmental issues affecting the District of Columbia. Using a combination of regulations, outreach, education, and incentives, our agency administers programs and services to fulfill our mission. We work collaboratively with other government agencies, residents, businesses, and institutions to promote environmentally responsible behavior that will lead to a more sustainable urban environment.

RiverSmart Homes Landscaping Installation Program

The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) solicits grant applications from eligible entities (called “Applicant” or “Applicants”). The goal of this Request for Applications (RFA) is to mitigate the impact of nonpoint source pollution, reduce the volume of stormwater runoff, increase water conservation, and strengthen District residents' understanding of stormwater issues. 

Purpose of the Grant

The purpose of this grant is to mitigate stormwater pollution on the District's waterways through funding an incentivized voluntary landscaping installation program.

Freshwater Conservation Environmental Contamination & Pollution Economic Services & Development +2 more

Oklahoma 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Program

Oklahoma State Department of Education
State/Local Government
Oklahoma
US $50,000 - US $300,000
The Oklahoma 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Program aims to enhance educational opportunities for students in low-performing schools. By providing academic enrichment, after-school activities, and family engagement, this program supports students in meeting Oklahoma's academic standards. Eligible applicants include local educational agencies, non-profits, and community organizations, ensuring diverse participation. The initiative focuses on a collaborative approach to improve educational outcomes and foster community involvement in children's education.
Environmental Education Literacy Financial Literacy +9 more

Competitive Grant- Berwick Fund (Over $10,000)

Community Giving Foundation
Private
Columbia County, Pennsylvania, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania
More than US $10,000
The Competitive Grant from the Berwick Health and Wellness Fund, a key initiative of the Community Giving Foundation, offers funding exceeding $10,000 to enhance community health. Established from the sale of Berwick Hospital, the fund prioritizes projects that ensure children's readiness for school, promote oral health, reduce cardiovascular disease risks, and improve mental health. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving specific boroughs and townships, while ineligible projects include sectarian activities.
Dental Health Community Health Education Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases +8 more

Bonnycastle Fellowship for Wetland and Waterfowl Research

Ducks Unlimited
Private
North America
Up to C $17,000
The Bonnycastle Fellowship for Wetland and Waterfowl Research supports graduate students in advancing conservation efforts. Offered by Ducks Unlimited, this fellowship provides up to $17,000 annually for research and personal support. The fellowship emphasizes the importance of research originality, ecological contributions, and feasibility. It is open to all North American graduate students, with a preference for doctoral candidates. The award is renewable for PhD students up to two years, and once for Master's students, contingent on satisfactory progress.
Ornithology Limnology Ornithological Conservation +2 more

Glacier Hills Legacy Fund Golden Opportunities

Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation
Private
Washtenaw County, Michigan
Unspecified amount
The Glacier Hills Legacy Fund Golden Opportunities grant program, managed by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, aims to enhance the well-being of vulnerable older adults in Washtenaw County. By addressing pressing issues such as housing stability, food security, healthcare access, and transportation, the program seeks to reduce inequities faced by this demographic. Funding will support innovative solutions and partnerships to ensure older adults can thrive in their communities.
Senior Services Aging / Gerontology Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health +4 more

Archie D & Bertha H Walker Foundation: Annual Grant Giving Program

Archie D & Bertha H Walker Foundation
Private
Minnesota
Up to US $5,000
The Archie D & Bertha H Walker Foundation supports nonprofits addressing systemic racism and promoting arts. Established in 1953, the foundation aims to enhance community welfare by funding organizations that dismantle barriers to equity and foster artistic expression. Eligible applicants must hold 501(c)(3) status and operate within specified counties in the Minnesota Twin Cities area. The foundation does not accept unsolicited proposals, focusing instead on impactful community engagement.
Racial / Ethnic Justice & Rights Art & Culture Alcoholism +7 more

Day-End Dough-Nation® Program

Panera Bread Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Day-End Dough-Nation® Program by Panera Bread exemplifies community generosity through the donation of unsold bakery products to local charities. This impactful initiative supports various organizations that distribute food to those in need, including shelters, health centers, and youth programs. By partnering with thousands of non-profits nationwide, Panera Bread not only reduces food waste but also plays a crucial role in addressing hunger and promoting equality within communities.
Immigrant Services Military & Veterans Services Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases +5 more

Ashland County Wildlife Conservation League David McClure Memorial Scholarship

Ashland County Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Ashland County Wildlife Conservation League David McClure Memorial Scholarship supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools and alternative education programs pursuing a degree in wildlife-related fields. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be accepted into accredited colleges or vocational programs. This scholarship fosters educational growth while promoting conservation efforts, reflecting the commitment of the Ashland County Community Foundation to enhance community development and support future leaders in wildlife conservation.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Education - High School +5 more

KY Agricultural Conservation Easement Program

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
Federal Government
Kentucky
Unspecified amount
The KY Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) aims to safeguard agricultural viability and conservation values by limiting non-agricultural uses of eligible lands. It consists of Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) that protect croplands and grasslands, and Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) that restore degraded wetlands. USDA's Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP) enhances these efforts by collaborating with eligible partners to prioritize wetland protection and improve wildlife habitats. Applications are accepted year-round.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Land / Habitat Conservation Agriculture +4 more

Chicago Board of Trade Foundation Grant

Chicago Board of Trade Foundation
Private
Cook County, Illinois, DeKalb County, Illinois +13 more
Unspecified amount
The Chicago Board of Trade Foundation Grant offers funding to non-profit organizations in the Chicago area, focusing on initiatives that assist children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and must not discriminate based on race, religion, or sexual orientation. Applications will be assessed based on program effectiveness, community impact, and organizational management. The foundation does not fund individuals, political candidates, or organizations without tax-exempt status.
Youth Services Senior Services Human & Social Services +8 more

Kathryn McQuade Foundation Grant

Kathryn B Mcquade Foundation
Private
United States
US $5,000 - US $50,000

Mission

The Foundation was established in December 2013 by Kathryn B. McQuade, after retiring from 33 years of working in the business community. I was blessed to have been born into a loving middle class family. My father worked very hard to insure that all of his children were given an opportunity for a good education and my mother, “a stay at home Mom’ was always there for us. My world was safe and comfortable. My life is in stark contrast to how much of the rest of the world lives. I continue to read of the terrible injustices waged against women and children globally and hope that this foundation can provide them the opportunity and resources to succeed. We will support organizations that help us achieve our goal of Striving to make sustainable improvements in women and children’s rights education and welfare.

Kathryn McQuade Foundation Grant

The Foundation will make timely decisions on your grant request and provide clear communications on our expectations of reporting progress.

Women

The Foundation’s goal is to provide women assistance and provide them an opportunity to succeed. Assistance can take many forms, however our goal is to help them become self sufficient and enable them to lift themselves out of poverty and provide for their children. Access to education, job training and professional skills, even access to capital in order to build a business are possible ways we will consider helping women to succeed. Grant requests should focus on enabling the women to sustain financial independence.

We look forward to hearing of the many creative ways organizations are working on helping women succeed through out the world. To help women is to help their children and the communities they live in.

Children

Too many children in the US and across the world live in poverty and lack the access to education. Education and/or appropriate skills training are necessary to break the cycle of poverty and crime. While the assistance to women may take many forms, the foundation’s focus for children will target education and/ or skills training. The Foundation is open to many ideas on how to accomplish this goal and look forward to receiving proposals to help all children achieve their potential.

Women's Rights & Equality Women & Girl Services Youth Services +7 more

Vermont Grant Program - Equity & Justice

Ben & Jerry's Foundation
Corporate
Vermont
Up to US $15,000
The Vermont Equity & Justice Grant program, now closed due to fund depletion, aims to allocate $300,000 in 2025 to aid Vermont non-profits affected by federal actions. Organizations may apply for up to $15,000 and will be prioritized based on their work with marginalized communities, including immigrants and racial justice initiatives. Applications addressing needs caused by federal policies will be evaluated quarterly, focusing on preparation and planning support.
Economic Rights, Justice, & Mobility Equitable & Affordable Housing Health Care Access & Delivery +5 more

The Zinnia Grant

Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation 091898
Private
Oregon, Washington
US $250,000 - US $350,000
The Zinnia Grant is a competitive funding opportunity aimed at making a significant impact in Oregon organizations. It typically awards between $250,000 and $350,000 annually for a three-year term. Eligible applicants must have an operating budget over $1M and a proven track record of previous grants. This grant emphasizes a commitment to equity and is designed to streamline the application process for organizations aligned with the foundation's mission.
Art & Culture Architecture Education +10 more

Great Lakes Protection Fund Grant

Great Lakes Protection Fund
Corporate
Adams County, Indiana, Adams County, Wisconsin +127 more
Unspecified amount
The Great Lakes Protection Fund Grant aims to support projects that deliver significant ecological improvements to the Great Lakes region. The Fund seeks transformative initiatives that involve collaboration among diverse stakeholders and rely on scientific rigor. Eligible applicants include non-profits, universities, and businesses, and the projects must demonstrate a positive environmental impact on the Great Lakes ecosystem. Importantly, the Fund does not support advocacy or compliance-related activities.
Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration Limnology Freshwater Conservation +2 more

Power: Ed Grant

South Carolina Student Loan
Private
South Carolina
US $25,000 - US $100,000
Power:Ed offers grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 for initiatives benefiting South Carolina residents and students. The program focuses on supporting low-income, underserved, and first-generation students, improving access to college, and creating pathways to quality workforce opportunities. Applications are accepted year-round with quarterly reviews following set deadlines. Eligible organizations must be dedicated to enhancing education and career readiness for South Carolina's residents, while ineligible projects include Pre-K programs and routine operating expenses.
Education - Middle School Education - High School Education - Higher Education +6 more

CO - Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP)

USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of Colorado
Federal Government
Colorado
Unspecified amount
The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) supports the conservation of agricultural land and wetlands by protecting them from nonagricultural uses. It offers Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) and Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) to assist landowners in preserving valuable resources. Eligible entities can receive financial assistance to maintain agricultural viability and restore habitats, promoting sustainability and conservation in agriculture while providing funding for critical projects.
Agriculture Livestock & Ranching Habitat & Ecosystem Restoration +4 more

Victim of Crime Act (VOCA) Funds

Wyoming Division of Victim Services
State/Local Government
Wyoming
Unspecified amount

Wyoming Division of Victim Services

Speaking as one voice for victims of crime. The mission of the Wyoming Division of Victim Services (DVS) is to cultivate social change and access to victim services through the provision of resources, education, and program support and development.

Victim of Crime Act (VOCA) Funds

The purpose of VOCA is to provide direct services to victims of crime. "Services to victims of crime" are those activities directly benefiting individual crime victims and ensuring the availability of comprehensive services to all victims of crime in Wyoming. Each year a portion of VOCA funding is set-aside for special projects. Services under this program are used to:

  • respond to the emotional and physical needs of crime victims;
  • assist primary and secondary victims of crime to stabilize their lives after victimization;
  • assist victims in understanding and participating in the criminal justice system; and
  • provide victims of crime with a measure of safety and security.
  • VOCA funds are awarded on a competitive, non-formula basis, to eligible victim service programs. VOCA funds are used to support the provision of services to all victims of crime.

    Crime Victim Services Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Domestic Violence +4 more

    Clean Water Legacy Partners Grant Program

    Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources
    State/Local Government
    Minnesota
    US $50,000 - US $250,000
    The Clean Water Legacy Partners Grant Program, administered by the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources, aims to enhance partnerships for protecting and restoring Minnesota's water resources. With funding of $500,000 for the first year and $2,000,000 for the second year, the program supports initiatives like clean water workshops, rain gardens, and shoreline protection. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and tribal governments dedicated to improving water quality.
    Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water Freshwater Conservation Water Resource Management +2 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.